Features
The gut-brain connection: Using science to better digest our thoughts
22 January 2020
Have you ever had a gut feeling about something? What if it isn’t simply an expression, but a statement grounded in scientific fact? This is the story of how your gut and brain have been in constant communication with one another since birth, and how you might want to listen to their conversation.
From Calgary to Kazan: An architect's journey
24 November 2019
As I prepare to leave for Kazan to attend the Aga Khan Award for Architecture, I feel somewhat stunned by the immense privilege of being part of such a unique event set to take place in such a magnificent city...
World Mental Health Day: Recognising the importance of sound mind
9 October 2019
Mental health is similar to physical health — everybody has it and should take care of it. When we reflect about our health in general, it is important to include the health of our minds as well as the health of our bodies in our thinking, plans, and conversations. On the occasion of World Mental Health Day, 10 October, we reflect on the importance of sound mind and a dignified quality of life.
Industry 4.0 and future trends
24 September 2019
It’s become an oft repeated cliché that we live in times of exponential change, driven by disruptive technologies, shifting global politics, changing human behaviour, and newly emerging social norms. And yet, as we enter the era of the fourth industrial revolution, we may be witnessing the greatest amount of change ever seen in a single human lifetime.
The future of work: Three skills to acquire
29 August 2019
Due to advances in technology, the landscape of work and jobs has changed significantly in the last 30 years. Some industries have progressed rapidly, while others have declined, which has shifted and disrupted standards of living and career aspirations. As the relationship between virtual and real becomes ever more blurred, how can we prepare for the next 30 years?
The hidden power of sleep
8 August 2019
When was the last time you woke up feeling rested? If it takes a while to answer, this article is for you. Are you someone who checks their smartphone last thing at night, and first thing in the morning? Getting a regular good night’s sleep is a cornerstone of basic health, and essential to our long-term wellbeing. With some helpful tips, we can reverse unhealthy trends, and prioritise a restful routine.
If it isn’t on Instagram, did it happen?
7 August 2019
In October 2015, Essena O’Neill, a popular Instagram Influencer, deleted 2000 pictures from her profile in what appeared to be a crisis of conscience. Having counted over half a million followers, and living many young peoples’ dream life, she eventually came to realise that the so-called ‘real world’ was a better place to spend her time.
Integrating wellbeing into the workplace
18 June 2019
Wellbeing impacts not just our personal comfort, health, and happiness; but also our work and working environment in a variety of ways. In fact, when levels of wellbeing in organisations increase; turnover, absenteeism, and presenteeism - showing up to work but not being productive - rates decrease significantly.
Online fraud: Protecting yourself when using the Internet
25 May 2019
Earlier this month, a vulnerability in the popular messaging service WhatsApp was discovered, which allowed hackers to install spyware though a voice call. This illicit software was capable of accessing calls, texts, and other data; even activating the phone’s microphone and camera. WhatsApp’s owner, Facebook, released an update in response, but it was already too late for some.
Have you thought about your mental health?
12 May 2019
Preservation of a sound mind is among the foundational principles of Islam's ethical code, which strives to ensure the dignity and honour of each individual from day to day, throughout the course of life. In general, it is also important to become more aware of, and to consider integrating holistic wellbeing into our daily routine, as this can have a benefit on the quality of our lives.
Coexisting in two worlds: Young people and the Internet
24 March 2019
In today’s age, children are born into the world and in many cases the first thing they are exposed to by their parents is a smartphone to capture and share their newborn images. This is often an indication of things to come, where electronic devices become a consistent part of their lives. The presence of such devices mean that children are going online at a younger age, but what implications could this have?
Are you ‘connected’? The Internet and its potential impact on health
26 February 2019
It is estimated that at the end of 2018, 51.2 per cent of the global population, or 3.9 billion people, were using the Internet. While the Internet has brought about many positive changes, there have also been some undesirable effects of its growth and increased usage.
