Life & Style

When it comes to parenting, there is no one size fits all, and couples are free to bring up their child in the way they feel best, even if it might look, or sound different to others. Having said that, a lot of parents swear by the “7-7-7 Rule of Effective Parenting“, that is said to be a simple, but powerful tool to help your child grow, and thrive in life, turning them into well-rounded individuals. But, what exactly is the 7-7-7 rule? We take a look…

Understanding 777This rule divides a child’s development into three important stages of seven years each, with a special focus on what parents should do during each phase. Here’s an easy guide to understanding this parenting rule and how it benefits both kids and parents.What Is the 7-7-7 Rule of Parenting?The 7-7-7 rule breaks down the first 21 years of a child’s life into three stages of seven years each:0 to 7 years: Focus on play.7 to 14 years: Focus on teaching.14 to 21 years: Focus on guiding.Each stage caters to the child’s needs at that point of time. Parents too, need to adjust their parenting structure accordingly, in order to stay parallel to their child’s needs.Stage 1: Play (0-7 Years)During the first seven years of their life, children learn best through fun, hands-on activities. Playing helps develop their brain, language, and social skills. This, says experts, builds creativity and emotional strength, laying a strong foundation for future learning.Parents should spend time playing with their kids, telling stories, and encouraging curiosity. This creates a joyful environment and a close bond between parent and child. It also helps children feel safe and loved, which is very important in early years.Stage 2: Teach (7-14 Years)From ages 7 to 14, children are ready to learn more structured lessons. This is also the time for them to inculcate important life skills, values, and social behavior. At this point, parents should help their kids understand right from wrong, develop friendships, and explore their interests.This phase is also good for introducing ideas about faith, community, and responsibility. Parents should get involved in schoolwork and activities, that boost children’s confidence and academic success.Stage 3: Guide (14-21 Years)The last seven years, which also sees kids turning into adults, focus on guiding teenagers and young adults as they become independent. Parents shift from teaching to advising, respecting their child’s growing need for freedom and self-expression.

During adolescence, children start making their own choices. Parents should support their decisions, offer advice, and help them navigate challenges, but should also let them be, and give them wings to fly. This guidance helps teens develop self-control, confidence, and good decision-making skills. A positive parent-teen relationship reduces risky behavior and builds trust.Why is this parenting technique important?Builds strong bonds: Spending quality time in each stage strengthens the parent-child relationship.Supports growth: Practicing parenting to each phase helps children develop emotionally, socially, and mentally.Reduces stress: Knowing what to focus on at each age makes parenting less overwhelming.Prepares for independence: The rule guides parents to gradually give children more freedom while staying supportive.Simple and PracticalThe 7-7-7 rule is easy to remember and follow. It respects that children change as they grow, and that parenting must change too. Remember, no one is a bad parent, but a little help goes a long way in making parents learn the right way of parenting, that will help their child grow, and even thrive in life.

It marks Foxconn’s first major contract in the fast-growing EV sector [File]
| Photo Credit: AP

The EV unit of Taiwanese technology giant Foxconn has agreed in principle to develop and supply an electric vehicle model to Japan’s Mitsubishi Motors, the companies said Wednesday.

It marks Foxconn’s first major contract in the fast-growing EV sector, and comes as analysts say many Japanese automakers will need to seek alternative partners to stay competitive as cars become more high-tech.

Mitsubishi Motors and Foxtron Vehicle Technologies said they had signed a memorandum of understanding and would “proceed with discussions towards a definitive agreement”.

“The EV model to be supplied to Mitsubishi Motors… will be developed by Foxtron, manufactured in Taiwan by Yulon Motor Co., Ltd, and introduced in the Oceania region (Australia and New Zealand) in the second half of 2026,” they said.

The model’s “excellent driving performance and infotainment functions as an electric vehicle make it ideal for the region”, their statement added.

Foxconn — also known as Hon Hai — is the world’s largest contract electronics manufacturer and builds devices for major tech companies, including Apple’s iPhones.

It has recently been pushing into areas ranging from electric vehicles to semiconductors and servers.

Foxconn said in February it was open to buying Renault’s stake in Japan’s Nissan.

Experts also say Honda, whose merger talks with Nissan fell through in February, could also be a good candidate for a Foxconn tie-up as it has technologies Honda wants.

Honda and Nissan’s failed merger had been seen as a way for the auto giants to catch up with Chinese rivals on electric vehicles.

China’s highly competitive EV market is the largest in the world, led by Shenzhen-based carmaker BYD which is accelerating its overseas expansion.

Anal Fissuresor Hemorrhoids, two similar conditions (the latter is also known as piles), are a common problem, that can cause extreme pain, discomfort or even bleeding in the lining of the anus.It can occur in both men and women, and can be chronic, meaning that it can last a lifetime. However, it can be kept under control with proper care, medications and avoiding triggers.Is there a cancer link?On the other hand, many people worry about whether common anal problems like anal fissures or hemorrhoids can lead to cancer. Let’s dig deeper…

What are Anal Fissures and Hemorrhoids?Anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus. They usually occur because of constipation, hard stools, or straining during bowel movements. They cause pain and sometimes bleeding.On the other hand, Hemorrhoids are swollen veins inside or around the anus. They can cause itching, pain, and bleeding. Hemorrhoids too, can be linked to constipation, pregnancy, or sitting for long periods.The good news is that both conditions are usually benign (cancerous) and treatable.

Do Anal Fissures or Hemorrhoids Cause Cancer?No, neither anal fissures nor hemorrhoids can directly cause cancer.What do studies say?Studies show that hemorrhoids do not increase the risk of anal cancer or colorectal cancer. While hemorrhoids and anal cancer is extremely uncomfortable causing bleeding or pain, hemorrhoids themselves are not a warning sign of cancer.Similarly, anal fissures also do not cause colon or anal cancer. They are common, and usually heal with proper care and medicines.Establishing the link (if there is one)While hemorrhoids themselves are not linked to cancer, there is some ongoing research suggesting that chronic inflammation or repeated irritation in the anal area, might slightly increase the risk of certain cancers. For example:Some studies found that people with benign inflammatory anal lesions (which include fissures, fistulas, and abscesses) might have a long-term risk of developing anal or anorectal cancer.

The theory is based on the fact that constant irritation and inflammation, (lasting years) can sometimes lead to abnormal cell changes over many years.However, the evidence is sketchy, and no direct link has been yet established.How to know if your symptoms are seriousEven though anal fissures do not cause cancer, you should consult a doc if you spot the following:Persistent or heavy bleedingA lump that doesn’t go awayPain that worsens over timeChanges in bowel habits or stool shapeSudden weight loss or fatigueHere’s what to do to avoid anal fissuresEat a high-fiber diet to avoid constipationDrink plenty of waterAvoid straining during bowel movementsDon’t hold nature’s callMaintain good hygiene in your private area

Lines by Rabindranath Tagore

Every year on May 7, the world celebrates Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti, a day dedicated to India’s first Nobel Laureate, an iconic poet, a skilled artist, and the most famous Polymath. And here we mention 10 lines by Tagore that are ever inspiring and beautiful.

The Golden State Warriors have faced a major setback as Stephen Curry suffered a strain in his thigh. He suffered this injury in the second quarter of the match against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday. Stephen Curry is a professional basketball player for the Golden State Warriors in the NBA, widely considered the greatest shooter in basketball history. A four-time NBA champion, two-time MVP, and an eight-time All-Star Curry revolutionized the game with his deep three-point shooting and quick release.

According to Dr. Evan Jeffries: “Stephen Curry was diagnosed with a “hamstring strain” This is worst case scenario in a playoff series.” “Typical timeline of healing is Grade I: 7-10 days, Grade II: 3-6 weeks,” the DPT also mentioned in a post on X.

A hamstring sprain usually happens when your muscle is overworked or pushed beyond its limit. It can feel like a dull ache, a sharp pain, or even a sudden cramp. Sometimes, you might hear or feel a pop—especially in more serious cases. The back of your thigh might swell up, bruise, or feel super tender to touch.Your hamstring isn’t just one muscle—it’s actually a group of three muscles running down the back of your thigh. These muscles help you bend your knee and move your hip. When you sprain or strain your hamstring, it means the muscle fibers or tendons have been stretched too far or even torn a bit.The worst part? Walking, bending your leg, or even sitting can hurt. And the more you ignore it and try to “push through,” the longer it takes to heal. Mild sprains might heal in a few weeks with rest, ice, and gentle stretches. But serious ones? You might need physiotherapy and a lot more patience.Recovery time really depends on how bad the sprain is. If it’s a mild sprain (just a little overstretch or tiny tear), you’re looking at about 2 to 3 weeks of rest, ice, and some light stretching. You might feel sore, but you can still move around without wanting to cry. A moderate sprain (where there’s more damage to the muscle) might take 4 to 8 weeks to heal. You’ll need to take it easy, maybe do some physical therapy, and definitely avoid jumping back into workouts too soon.Now if you’ve gone all out and seriously torn that hamstring? We’re talking 3 months or more, and you’ll probably need professional rehab to get full strength and flexibility back.The golden rule? Don’t rush it. If you try to sprint or do squats before you’re ready, you’ll just mess it up again—and this time, it’ll take even longer to heal. Be patient, stretch smart, and ease back into activity like your hamstring’s watching… because it is.

Stephen Curry (Image via Imagn)

In April, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration closed a probe into 258 Zoox vehicles over a braking issue [File]
| Photo Credit: REUTERS

Amazon.com’s self-driving unit Zoox agreed to recall 270 driverless vehicles after an unoccupied robotaxi was involved in an April 8 crash with a passenger car in Las Vegas.

Zoox said on Tuesday there were no injuries in the crash. The Zoox Automated Driving Systems in certain driving scenarios “may make an inaccurate prediction when another vehicle slowly approaches perpendicularly and stops. In these scenarios, the Zoox vehicle may not be able to avoid a crash.”

Zoox paused operations for several days pending a safety review of the incident and developed a software update to address the issue.

Anticipating the passenger car would proceed forward, the Zoox robotaxi slowed down and steered to the right, but the passenger car came to a stop, fully yielding to the Zoox robotaxi and remaining in the shoulder lane, the company said, adding the robotaxi braked hard, but was unable to avoid striking the passenger vehicle.

Zoox said the issue occurs when Zoox vehicles are operating at speeds greater than 40 miles per hour (64 km/h) and a vehicle incrementally encroaches from a perpendicular driveway.

In April, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration closed a probe into 258 Zoox vehicles over a braking issue after Zoox issued a recall to update their software.

NHTSA opened the probe in May 2024 following two rear-end collisions that injured motorcyclists after the automated vehicles braked unexpectedly.

NHTSA in March 2023 opened a probe into the self-certification by Zoox in 2022 of a robotaxi without traditional driving controls. The investigation remains open.

The 61st Baeksang Arts Awards wrapped up on Monday (May 5) with Netflix’s When Life Gives You Tangerines taking home four major wins. While the drama was the most awarded of the night, fans were stunned that IU, the heart and soul of the show, didn’t win a single award. Despite being nominated in both the Best Actress and Most Popular Actress categories, IU walked away empty-handed. For many, it was one of the biggest snubs in Baeksang history.

IU, also known as Lee Ji Eun, has long been one of South Korea’s most loved stars. With praised performances in dramas like My Mister, Hotel Del Luna, and now Tangerines, she has steadily grown as an actress after establishing herself as a successful soloist. Yet despite multiple Baeksang nominations over the years, her only wins remain in popularity categories, never for acting.

IU in When Life Gives You Tangerines| Credit: X

Now her fans, known as UENA, are asking her to draw a line. Just like she quietly stopped showing up at MAMA, fans want her to skip Baeksangs too.

Why IU doesn’t attend MAMA anymore

It started in 2014. That year, IU had one of the strongest runs of her career. She released A Flower Bookmark, a cover album that performed extremely well. Her collaborations topped the charts, and Billboard named her the all-time leader of its K-pop Hot 100. Many felt that 2014 was finally IU’s year to win the Daesang, the grand prize, at the Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA).

But instead of the big win fans hoped for, IU was given a lifetime achievement award. She was all of 20 years old at the time. The award is usually given to artists nearing the end of their careers, not someone in her prime. It felt more like a consolation than true recognition.

Since then, IU has never returned to MAMA. While she has won awards like Best Female Artist, she has kept her distance.

Fans want IU to treat Baeksang the same way

After this year’s Baeksang outcome, IU’s fans are speaking up. Many feel it was yet another award show using her name and popularity without honoring her work. She was front and center in When Life Gives You Tangerines, a show that swept four awards that night, but she received none. Fans had hoped for either Best Actress or the Daesang, but both went to others. Kim Tae Ri won Best Actress for Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born, and Culinary Class Wars took the grand prize. Kim Hye Yoon of Lovely Runner was meanwhile awarded the Popularity Award.

What made it worse for fans was how present IU was throughout the event. She was shown in multiple cutaways, smiling and clapping, only to walk away with nothing. Many fans called it humiliating and are now asking her to step away from Baeksangs altogether.

“I hope IU treats Baeksang the same way she treats Mama! They want to give the award to any actress every year except IU! Is it because she’s the only idol here? She has incredibly successful works both globally and domestically, so why hasn’t she won any awards all these years?” one user wrote.

Another fan wrote, “IU walking out empty-handed at the Baeksang Awards baffles me; this woman played two roles and managed to execute them both perfectly. Literally the biggest snub of the century, I’m at a loss for words.”

IU walking out empty handed at the baeksang awards baffles me, this woman played two roles and managed to execute them both perfectly. Literally the biggest snub of the century, I’m at a loss of words. #WhenLifeGivesYouTangerines pic.twitter.com/ITM68oTT7r

— rara♡☆ (@wookjaes) May 5, 2025

A third wrote, “Korean award shows are a joke anyway; let’s get IU that best actress award more prestigious than any Baeksang or Daesang. Let’s give her as an amazing actress internationally.”

Korean award shows are a joke anyway, let’s get IU that best actress more prestigious than any baeksang or daesang let’s give her as an amazing actress internationally pic.twitter.com/ZXTWo3Or7K

— archive (@nini_iu) May 5, 2025

“Baeksang judges didn’t know about the emotion the public remembers,” one user wrote.

Baeksang judges didn’t know about the emotion the public remembers.https://t.co/unfx3EhkZu pic.twitter.com/qR2rWTkG8m

— Filipe (@filipe910910) May 6, 2025

IU played a dual role in When Life Gives You Tangerines, portraying both Oh Ae Sun, the central female lead, and her daughter, Yang Geum Myeong. The drama offered an emotional look at life’s struggles and how love from a partner and family can help you find comfort through it all.

For all the latest K-drama, K-pop, and Hallyuwood updates, keep following our coverage here.

Instead of direct confrontation, this type of manipulator subtly undermines others through sarcasm, backhanded compliments, or delayed responses. They might “forget” to pass along key information or deliver work late to make a teammate look bad. Their behaviour creates confusion and tension while allowing them to deny wrongdoing. If you are dealing with such a person at the workplace, document and address such issues head-on in a calm, professional tone.

You may not be shaking salt over every meal, but if you’re loading up on chips, packaged soups, instant noodles, or takeout, you’re probably consuming way more sodium than your kidneys can handle. High salt intake raises blood pressure, and uncontrolled high BP is one of the biggest culprits behind chronic kidney disease (CKD). Swelling in ankles, hands, or face, persistent headaches and high blood pressure readings are the early signs you must pay attention to. Limit sodium to less than 2,300 mg per day (about one teaspoon). Ditch the processed stuff and flavor your meals with herbs, lemon juice, or even garlic instead.