In the 1980s, sociologist Ray Oldenburg introduced the concept of the "third place"—a space distinct from home (the first place) and work (the second place). These are informal public gathering spots like cafés, parks, libraries, or community centers where people can connect, converse, or simply...
I don’t remember exactly when I first heard the phrase “romanticise your life,” but it struck a chord deep in my overthinking, detail-loving soul. The idea that one could elevate everyday experiences into something beautiful, meaningful, and even cinematic was alluring. According to a New...
In a previous column, I wrote about how it alarmed me to observe that women of my generation who are not working often do not keep up with advances in computer technology. They let their children take over their laptops and shy away from acquainting...
Being a boy mom means I do not have any daughters to pass down the feminine wisdom I’ve gathered over my lifetime, but I hope sharing some of it with you, dear readers, will benefit you as we reflect on what it means to be...
Dating apps have revolutionised the way people connect, offering convenience and access like never before. But they have also led to a troubling shift in how young people perceive relationships. Are we trading depth for disposability? Let’s explore how dating apps are shaping modern relationships,...
Having written for Provoke Lifestyle for a few years now has me reflecting on previous January columns. My goal is always to touch on the usual New Year themes such as resolutions, goals, self-help, and lifestyle improvements, but to explore a different angle, since trite...
Consuming alcohol and socialising have gone hand-in-hand for centuries, in most cultures around the world. The Swedes take shots of potent aquavit at their midsommar parties; Spaniards keep wine on the table for both lunch and dinner; English law permits 16-year-olds to have a single...
I am writing this column from my hometown of Tampa, Florida, U.S.A. With a great deal of guilt I left my kids, husband, and marketing job during India’s busiest season to fly all the way here to attend my 20 year school reunion. As I’ve...
As children and teenagers, we have ample opportunity to try our hand at a range of extracurriculars, encouraged by our parents and teachers to find an activity that we are passionate about. Over the years, our focus narrows, and we may continue to dabble in...
We humans are communal creatures; social relationships and closeness with others benefit our hearts, minds, and bodies. But as our work and family responsibilities increase, it is easy to let maintaining friendships slide down the priority list. Some people are so infatuated with their spouse...
