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Zhang Yunlai chose the unconventional lifestyle because he enjoyed it and not to save money.

A Chinese programmer has opted for a “comfortable” workweek living in the back of a parked electric car over a spacious four-storey house. Zhang Yunlai, 41, from Yangjiang in Guangdong province, southern China, revealed he has been living in his car for the last four years, despite owning a 400-square-metre four-storey house in his hometown.

He adopted this unusual way of life that goes against the norm, not because he is financially unstable, but because he appreciates the freedom it provides, South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported.

Mr Yunlai initially lived a normal life in a rented flat after moving to Shenzhen six years ago for work. He commuted from home to work and paid about 2,500 yuan (almost Rs 29,000) in rent every month.

But a park camping trip four years ago changed his life, making him reevaluate his living conditions.

Next, he bought an electric car and decided to try sleeping in it after noticing the back seat could accommodate a mattress. And it’s been like that ever since.

The space and comfort of the air conditioner solidified Mr Yunlai’s decision to forego his spacious house for the backseat of his car.

His daily schedule consists of taking a shower at the gym and eating at the company cafeteria. He finds a peaceful park to sleep in after work and then drives to a car charging station.

Mr Yunlai claimed he could wash up in the park’s “five-star” public restrooms. He comes home on the weekends with his laundry and to spend quality time with his family.

With meals and other expenses totalling about 100 yuan (US$14) per day on average, Mr Yunlai’s lifestyle remains incredibly economical. Parking is reasonably priced, costing 6 yuan (8 US cents) per night, with an extra 20 yuan for office parking.

Mr Yunlai said he chose this lifestyle because he enjoyed it and felt comfortable and free, adding it had nothing to do with finances.

“I do not have much financial pressure. Even if someone offered me free rent, I would not move. The park environment is far better than a typical flat, and it gives me freedom,” Mr Yunlai said.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), PCOS affects nearly 1 in 10 women globally. While medications can help manage PCOS symptoms, adopting a healthy diet is a fundamental, long-term strategy.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age. It disrupts the menstrual cycle, causes excess androgen levels, and may lead to infertility, weight gain, acne, and insulin resistance. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), PCOS affects nearly 1 in 10 women globally. While medications can help manage PCOS symptoms, adopting a healthy diet is a fundamental, long-term strategy. Diet directly influences insulin levels, hormone balance, and inflammation, all of which are crucial in PCOS management. Making informed food choices can significantly ease symptoms and improve overall quality of life.

In addition to diet, regular physical activity, stress reduction, and quality sleep are vital for managing PCOS. Speak to your doctor about supplements like inositol, omega-3 fatty acids, or vitamin D, which may aid in improving insulin sensitivity and hormonal balance. As per the National Institutes of Health (NIH), individualised treatment plans offer the best outcomes.

How diet plays a role in PCOS management

The right diet helps stabilise blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and regulate hormones. Since many women with PCOS are insulin resistant, nutrition plans that focus on whole foods and glycemic control are key. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), balanced eating can help reduce long-term complications of PCOS, including type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

1. Focus on low glycemic index (GI) foods

Low GI foods prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar, easing insulin resistance, a common issue in PCOS. Include whole grains like oats, quinoa, and brown rice, and avoid refined carbs like white bread and sugary cereals.

2. Choose anti-inflammatory ingredients

PCOS is often accompanied by chronic low-grade inflammation. Include foods like turmeric, green leafy vegetables, berries, tomatoes, and fatty fish (like salmon or sardines) that are naturally anti-inflammatory.

3. Prioritise lean protein and healthy fats

Lean proteins like eggs, tofu, and legumes help in muscle repair and satiety, while healthy fats from avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil support hormone production and reduce inflammation.

4. Cut back on added sugars

Excess sugar intake worsens insulin resistance. Avoid sugary drinks, packaged snacks, desserts, and flavoured yoghurts. Instead, satisfy sweet cravings with naturally sweet fruits like dates or apples in moderation.

5. Eat fibre-rich foods

Fibre slows digestion, regulates blood sugar, and promotes gut health. Add vegetables like broccoli and spinach, fruits like pears and oranges, legumes, and whole grains to your daily meals.

6. Limit dairy and red meat (if sensitive)

Some women with PCOS find dairy increases acne or bloating due to IGF-1 hormones. If sensitive, opt for plant-based or lactose-free alternatives. Red meat, when eaten in excess, may also raise inflammation markers.

7. Stay hydrated and avoid processed foods

Water supports metabolism and hormone detoxification. At the same time, reduce processed and packaged foods high in preservatives, sodium, and trans fats that could exacerbate inflammation and hormonal imbalance.

PCOS may be a lifelong condition, but its symptoms are manageable with the right dietary choices. A balanced, low-GI, anti-inflammatory diet not only supports hormonal health but also improves energy and mood. It’s essential for women to listen to their bodies and seek nutritional guidance tailored to their needs. After all, food is one of the most powerful tools in healing.

In India’s sweltering summer heat, water loss through sweating increases, and your hydration needs spike significantly. So how much is enough? Let’s dive into smart hydration tips and how to tailor your intake.

As temperatures soar during Indian summers, staying hydrated becomes not just a wellness tip, but a necessity. Dehydration in hot weather can lead to fatigue, headaches, heat strokes, and serious electrolyte imbalances. While the general recommendation by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine suggests around 3.7 litres for men and 2.7 litres for women per day, these numbers can vary depending on age, activity level, and climate. In India’s sweltering summer heat, water loss through sweating increases, and your hydration needs spike significantly. So how much is enough? Let’s dive into smart hydration tips and how to tailor your intake.

Children and seniors are more vulnerable to dehydration due to lower fluid reserves and reduced thirst sensitivity. Offer water-rich foods, encourage frequent sips, and watch for signs like dry mouth, low energy, or confusion. Always ensure they’re well-hydrated before outdoor activities.

Why hydration is crucial in summer

Sweating is your body’s natural way to cool down, but it also leads to substantial water and salt loss. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), even mild dehydration can impair mood, memory, and performance. In peak summer months, drinking more than the regular water quota becomes essential to prevent heat-related illnesses and keep your bodily functions operating efficiently.

1. Follow the ‘8×8′ rule

The classic rule of drinking eight 8-ounce glasses (roughly 2 litres) is a minimum baseline. In summer, add at least 1-1.5 litres more, especially if you are outdoors or physically active.

2. Watch your sweat rate and activity levels

If you’re working out, walking long distances, or spending time in the sun, you may lose up to 1-2 litres of water per hour. Adjust your intake accordingly, sipping water every 15-20 minutes.

3. Eat your water

Foods like watermelon, cucumber, tomatoes, muskmelon, oranges, and spinach have high water content. Adding them to your daily meals not only boosts hydration but also provides essential electrolytes.

4. Start your day with a glass of water

You lose water while sleeping, even without realising it. Drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning can jumpstart your metabolism and compensate for overnight fluid loss.

5. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty

Thirst is a late indicator of dehydration. Keep sipping water throughout the day, even when you’re indoors. Carrying a reusable water bottle helps as a visual reminder.

6. Keep an eye on your urine colour

A simple hydration check: if your urine is pale yellow, you’re likely well-hydrated. Dark yellow or amber urine suggests dehydration.

7. Avoid diuretics and sugary beverages

Tea, coffee, alcohol, and soda can dehydrate you further. If consumed, balance them with water. Opt for lemon water, coconut water, or diluted buttermilk instead.

8. Replenish with electrolytes

Sweating not only depletes water but also sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Natural options like coconut water, lemon-salt water, or oral rehydration solutions (ORS) can help restore balance.

Your daily water needs spike in the summer, especially in India’s extreme heat. Listening to your body, staying consistent with fluid intake, and opting for natural hydrating foods can go a long way. Adequate hydration supports your heart, kidneys, brain, and skin. So keep that water bottle handy and sip smart, your body will thank you for it.

Ranthambore National Park enjoys an almost unparalleled status among wildlife enthusiasts, who flock to the area for tiger sightings

If there’s one national park in India famous for its tiger sightings, it is Ranthambore in Rajasthan. The national park is unique for tiger sightings at any time of the day, while other national parks in the country usually rely on the dawn or dusk time periods.

It’s also been the stuff of wildlife legends, what with photographers flocking to the national park for the best shots of tigers and tigresses.

The World’s Most Famous Tigress

The stories of Machli, Ranthambore’s famous Royal Bengal tigress, is of course, legendary. The tigress was identified, and owed her name to, a fish-shaped mark on her forehead. Machli was India’s longest-living tigress and one of the world’s most famous ones. After her mother’s death in 2000, Machli became the dominant tigress in Ranthambore. Machli mothered several litters of cubs, and was soon synonymous with India’s tiger conservation movement.

Almost a decade since her death, locals still sing paeans to Machli’s courage. One of those stories is that of her fight with a crocodile who tried to drag her into the water by the leg in the lakes of the national park. Machli extricated herself from the jaws of the crocodile, and killed the mugger despite suffering several injuries herself. That was 2009.

The Legacy Of Machli

Seven years later, in 2016, Machli’s death at the age of 19 left wildlife enthusiasts all over the world heartbroken. Ranthambore, since then, has missed its resident huntress but also become known for Machli’s cubs, some of whom inherited that fish-shaped mark on their foreheads.

Today, Machli’s legacy is visible all over Ranthambore. The tiger reserve is known for its density of tigers and ease of sightings.

The Many Luxury Resorts In Ranthambore

Once the hunting grounds of the Jaipur royals, Ranthambore since has become a favourite with luxury resorts. The biggest hospitality brands are here: from Taj and Oberoi, to Aman and Sujan.

There’s also Six Senses Fort Barwara, at a stone’s throw from Ranthambore National Park, which is a hit with luxury travellers .Aman-i-KhasAman-i-Khas

When To Go

From October to March, Ranthambore is teeming with tourists on the lookout for the Royal Bengal Tiger. The summer months of April and May also attract visitors, but the high temperatures of Rajasthan might make it difficult to venture out during the day. From July to September, the national park is closed for monsoon.

As a result, the winter months see the maximum footfall at the Ranthambore resorts. Here’s a look at the best luxury resorts in Ranthambore.

Where To Stay In Ranthambore

Six Senses Fort Barwara

Aman-i-Khas

Taj Sawai Ranthambore

Sujan Sher Bagh

The Oberoi Vanyavilas

Menopause merchandising is particularly pernicious in India, where patriarchal structures already bar many women from formal healthcare

Once upon a time, menopause was a taboo topic in Indian households, spoken of only in whispers. Like menstruation, it was surrounded by fear and endured in silence, with little research or discussion.

In the past decade, however, this silence has started to dissipate. Women across the country are openly sharing their experiences-hot flashes, brain fog, and sleepless nights-bringing menopause into the light. But as awareness grows, so does the commercialisation of the conversation.

The Hush Is Now A Conversation

Over time, Indian women themselves have been the primary catalysts in opening up dialogue around menopause and its troublesome sister, perimenopause.

Recently, Namita Thapar, a judge on Shark Tank India, opened up about her perimenopause struggles during an episode of the show.  She shared details about experiencing heavy bleeding, discomfort, and low haemoglobin levels, leading to anemia, even while filming the show.

In the past few years, women have swapped notes on everything from mood swings to bone density scans, majorly online. This new visibility is vital. Yet visibility, in a market economy, rarely arrives alone. It brings commerce as its slightly over-eager plus-one, and commerce rarely arrives without a suitcase of insecurity.

The Price Tag Of Menopause

If you go online and type “menopause” into any e-commerce search bar today (or even Google) you’ll find a plethora of products. From powders, probiotics, hormone-balancing lattes, pillow mists and cooling pyjamas, to supplements and yoga mats.

It doesn’t stop here. If you’re into Ayurveda, you can also find a “menopause starter kit” or “menopause care kit” which are retailing from Rs 4,999, and consists of supplements, medicines and what not.

Ironically though, these figures land with a dull thud when set next to the findings cited by Dr Amrita Razdan, obstetrics and gynaecologist, Asian Hospital, Faridabad, that Indian women’s earnings drop by an average 4.3 per cent in the first four years after diagnosis, and by 10 percent by year four.

Many cut hours or quit entirely because of unmanaged symptoms, coupled with very less workplace support.

Do Women Really Need All These Menopause Products?

Dr Razdan tells NDTV, “There is no strong clinical proof that these supplements significantly ease menopausal symptoms.”

“Women may find temporary relief in supplements like black cohosh or various vitamins, the evidence supporting their effectiveness is weak. But, there is no strong clinical proof that these supplements significantly ease menopausal symptoms,” she adds.

She further mentions a Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) that is also gaining attention and may help certain cases of debilitating hot flashes or vaginal dryness. However, Dr Razdan stresses that possible side effects such as irregular bleeding, blood clots, and, in rare cases, stroke. Dr Razdan emphasises that the Hormone Replacement Therapy must first be weighed carefully with a gynaecologist.

Anshul Singh, head, clinical nutrition and dietetics department, Artemis Hospitals, agrees. He adds that menopause is a normal phase in every woman’s life, typically between the ages of 45 and 55, when menstrual periods end.

Some of the common symptoms include hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, insomnia, and joint pain. Not all women suffer from these symptoms severely. Many remain unaffected by menopause.

But he warns that despite this, the markets are full of products that offer easy fixes or balanced hormones.

Menopause Isn’t Something To Be “Fixed”

“From supplements that will supposedly reset your system, to beauty creams aimed at menopausal skin, the language is such that it suggests menopause is something to be fixed. This can lead to stress and unnecessary reliance on products that aren’t even scientifically tested to work,” he adds.

Anshul says that most of these menopause supplements are not regulated strictly, and they don’t all work very well.

Manvi Agnihotri, a nutritionist and founder of The Sweet Change, says that during menopause, there is a drop in oestrogen and progesterone, which does lead to changes like slower metabolism, mood swings, sugar cravings and fatigue, but that doesn’t mean women need to throw money at every trending product.

Lifestyle Choices And Tackling Menopausal Symptoms

Manvi says what’s often missed in all the noise is how much of this can be managed through realistic, everyday choices. These lifestyle choices include doing yoga, which all the experts agree can be the best way to tackle a few of the symptoms.

“Lifestyle solutions such as yoga, which can be absolutely wonderful, but you don’t have to use a special menopausal yoga mat to stretch and breathe,” Dr Amrita says.

Remember, the so-called “menopausal” yoga mat emblazoned with lotus petals does not stretch your hamstrings any better than a plain-coloured mat.

Manvi says one of the biggest culprits during this time is sugar. Refined sugar wreaks havoc by causing insulin spikes, worsening inflammation, and contributing to weight gain and brain fog. Replacing it with something that doesn’t mess with blood sugar, like a natural, zero glycemic index alternative, can genuinely help.

• She adds that this won’t solve everything overnight, but it can stabilize energy, reduce cravings, and help women feel more in control.
• Experts also say that some supplements, such as calcium and vitamin D, may be beneficial for bone health, however, any supplement should be taken after expert advice.
• Practices like yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises can help reduce anxiety and improve well-being.
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule and create a cool, comfortable sleeping environment to ease night sweats.

The Menopause Merchandising

Menopause merchandising is particularly pernicious in India, where patriarchal structures already bar many women from formal healthcare. Experts tell us that the gender health gap is widest among those in low-paid, precarious employment, who are rarely offered sick leave for period pain, let alone menopause.

“We’re living in a time where menopause is being over-medicalised and, frankly, over-commercialised. You name it-pills, powders, even yoga mats labelled ‘for menopause’-and it’s being sold to women under the idea that this natural phase of life needs fixing. But menopause isn’t a disease. It’s a transition,” Manvi says.

Gurugram-based dietitian Pranjal Kumat agrees. He adds that menopause is a fact of life. “This stage does bring about some change, but is not a cause for material concern. There is often unnecessary shock regarding middle age. For women who experience harsh symptoms, other options such as hormone therapy or medication can be taken. Otherwise, basic lifestyle adjustments are enough,” says Kumat.

We don’t need menopause merch. We need more honesty, more awareness, and fewer empty promises dressed up as wellness fixes.

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