NARA'S NOTEPAD

Thursday, January 1, 2026

NARA'S NOTEPAD

VOLUME 23

JANUARY 2026

NUMBER 1

NARA'S NOTEPAD IS SUPPORTED

BY READERS LIKE YOU

WISH YOU ALL A HAPPY NEW YEAR

MEMO FROM NARA

2025 has ended, and we're entering 2026 from this January. New Year greetings are flying from everyone to their friends and relatives. The season is winter. The weather is cool. The mornings are chilly. All of us wear some warm clothing depending on the intensity of the cold. Pleasant for some and unpleasant for others.

People have new resolutions to undertake from 1 January 2026. Every New Year, people like to follow a good way of life, like not smoking, not drinking alcohol, helping others, exercising daily, etc. But one has to see how long these resolutions are going to last. Some people are good at following their resolutions till next New Year, whereas most others follow them for a month or two and forget about them. That is human nature. I hope you stick to the resolution you undertake as a duty and follow through on it throughout the year. I wish you all the best.

On this occasion, I remind you all that NARA’S NOTEPAD is completing 22 successful years. The monthly blog I write every month regularly reached thousands of readers like you who never missed a single issue. I read newspapers, magazines and various kinds of books every day. I pick up important passages and transmit them to NARA’S NOTEPAD so that they reach thousands of readers. I really take a pleasure in doing so. I hope to continue this service for the coming years, too. Some of my neighbours who have the chance of meeting me personally, in fact, congratulate me and also appreciate my effort. Such good, kind words encourage me to do the work more efficiently every month. I take it as a point that the issues are uploaded precisely on the first day of every month.

If you like NARA’S NOTEPAD, please forward it to your dear ones, relatives and friends. Let them also enjoy reading it and benefit. I wish you and your friends and relatives a very happy New Year with many more successes and achievements in life. All the best. - NARA

WHAT IS AGEING AND WHY DOES IT HAPPEN?

Ageing is simply the process of becoming older. Superficially, as we age, we appear to have more wrinkles and blemishes in the skin, and perhaps greyer hair. We don’t have the same strength, endurance, and even body shape as we did when we were younger. But on a molecular and cellular level in the body, what is driving these changes?

Cells are the building blocks that form all our tissues. As we age, our cells age too. Stem cells, which are cells that are capable of becoming a range of different tissues (bone, muscle, blood, etc.), lose the capacity to undergo differentiation—the ability to change from one cell type to another. This is problematic because stem cells are responsible for replenishing damaged tissue, for example, damaged cartilage in joints. So, the body cannot regenerate as effectively.

Unlike the cells in young bodies, cells in the older person’s body also lose some of their metabolic capacity and start to accumulate waste proteins, resulting in malfunction. This is thought to occur because of several different reasons:

DNA damage arises from exposure to free radicals (free radicals are high-energy molecules in the body capable of destroying or damaging other molecules).

Shortening of telomeres (telomeres are structures on the ends of your DNA that protect it from degradation).

Advanced glycosylation end products (AGEs) (destructive molecules created from sugar) abnormally bond with other normal proteins and fat molecules, and over time, these altered molecules accumulate.

Our cells may be intrinsically programmed genetically to age and stop working.

Thus, the body loses its ability to replace old or damaged cells, and those older cells start to malfunction. This disrupts the complex biological processes in the body.

Cellular ageing processes affect the musculoskeletal system, and we know that three things happen:

Bones lose density, becoming weaker and more brittle (aka osteoporosis and osteopenia). Muscle mass and density decrease (a.k.a. sarcopenia)

The smooth cartilage which covers our joints wears down. In the spine, all three of these processes occur in addition to degeneration of the intervertebral discs—the structures which are responsible for linking our vertebrae together. - Yoshihiro Katsuura

PHYSICAL DISABILITY

Physical Disability: Understanding the Challenges and Coping Mechanisms

Physical disability is a condition that affects a person's ability to perform normal daily activities due to a physical impairment. This type of disability may be caused by an accident or injury, a chronic illness, or a congenital condition. Regardless of the cause, physical disability can present significant challenges to individuals, families, and communities.

The effects of physical disability can be both physical and psychological. Among the physical challenges are difficulty with mobility, fatigue, pain, impaired vision or hearing, and difficulty with fine motor skills. These challenges can make it difficult for individuals to engage in typical daily activities, such as going to work or school, shopping, driving, or exercising.

The psychological effects of physical disability can be equally challenging. These may include feelings of frustration, anger, sadness, and isolation. Individuals with physical disabilities may feel like they are not able to participate fully in life or that they are a burden on their family and friends. Coping with the psychological aspects of physical disability is critical, and mental health support should be an essential aspect of any treatment plan.

Despite these challenges, individuals with physical disabilities can live fulfilling lives. There are many coping mechanisms and treatments available that can help individuals with physical disabilities overcome the limitations they face. These may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, medication, assistive devices, and modifications to homes, schools, and workplaces.

One important aspect of coping with physical disability is community support. Individuals with physical disabilities can benefit from assistance from family, friends, and caregivers. Joining support groups or online communities can also be a useful way for individuals with physical disabilities to connect with others who may be facing similar challenges.

Another key factor in coping with physical disability is resilience. Resilience is the ability to adapt and recover after significant life challenges. Building resilience takes time and effort, but it can help individuals with physical disabilities thrive. Strategies to build resilience include focusing on strengths, setting achievable goals, developing positive coping mechanisms, and seeking out support.

In conclusion, physical disabilities present significant challenges to individuals, families, and communities. But with the right treatment and support, individuals with physical disabilities can live fulfilling lives. Coping mechanisms, community support, and resilience are all essential elements in helping individuals with physical disabilities overcome the obstacles they face and lead healthy, happy, and productive lives.

WHY THERE ARE FEW WOMEN IN THE FIELD OF SCIENCE?

There are several reasons why there are few women in the field of science.

Stereotypes and societal expectations: Girls often grow up with the belief that certain fields, such as science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), are not meant for them. Scientific fields are often considered masculine, which dissuades girls from pursuing these subjects.
Lack of role models: There are fewer female role models in scientific fields. Girls are less likely to consider pursuing a career in science if they do not see women succeeding in these fields.
Bias and discrimination: Women may experience bias and discrimination in hiring, promotions or funding in scientific fields.
Work – life balance: Women are often expected to balance work and family responsibilities. The demanding nature of scientific careers can make it difficult to achieve this balance.
Unconscious bias: Unconscious biases against women can affect all aspects of their careers. Hiring managers or male-dominated workplaces may undervalue women’s skills or abilities.

It is important to address these issues and make changes to promote gender equality in the sciences. This includes promoting female role models, addressing unconscious bias, providing support for work-life balance, and increasing the representation of women in the scientific field.

JUST TO LAUGH

Towards the end of a long day’s drive over winding roads in the Welsh hills, a motorist was stopped by a policeman.

‘I’ll have to report you for driving without rear lights,’ the constable said.

The motorist stepped out of his car and gave a cry of despair.

‘It’s not as bad as all that,’ said the policeman.

The tourist replied, ‘I’m not worried about the lights. But where’s my trailer?’

LINES I LIKED

Ø Happier and blessed is the one who gives, not the one who receives.

Ø Happiness can be fleeting, but hanging on to those good times and not comparing your personal experiences to those of others can help you remain happy for longer.

Ø Happiness comes from acquiring things and accumulating possessions?

Accept that adversity is a part of life.

Meet you next month –2026

Professor A. Narayanan, PhD, FISPP

SEND YOUR COMMENTS TO:

E-mail: arumugakannu@gmail.com

Ph. 0422 4393017 Mobile: 75399 15614

www.nara2007.blogspot.com

(NARA’S NOTEPAD)

Sunday, November 30, 2025

NARA'S NOTEPAD

VOLUME 22

DECEMBER 2025

NUMBER 12

NARA'S NOTEPAD

IS SUPPORTED BY

READERS LIKE YOU

THE LESS YOU WANT, THE RICHER YOU ARE

OPPORTUNITIES

Opportunities play a crucial role in shaping human lives, influencing both personal and professional growth. They are the moments, circumstances, or chances that, when seized, can lead to significant achievements, transformations, and successes. Opportunities are not always easily recognizable, nor are they always evenly distributed. Some individuals find themselves surrounded by opportunities, while others must struggle to create or discover them. Regardless of how they arise, opportunities have the power to change the trajectory of one’s life, opening doors to new experiences, relationships, and successes.

One of the defining characteristics of an opportunity is its potential to create progress. In the professional world, opportunities come in the form of job openings, promotions, business ventures, and networking connections. In education, they present themselves as scholarships, mentor-ships, and learning experiences. On a personal level, opportunities can be found in relationships, self-improvement, and unexpected life events that push an individual toward growth. However, recognizing an opportunity is only the first step. Many people fail to capitalize on the chances presented to them due to fear, hesitation, or a lack of preparedness. Others may not even recognize an opportunity until it has passed. The key to making the most of opportunities lies in developing awareness, cultivating a proactive mindset, and having the courage to act when the moment arises.

Recognizing opportunities requires a certain level of awareness and foresight. They often appear in disguise, presenting themselves as challenges, risks, or changes that may initially seem uncomfortable. A career setback, for example, might seem like a failure but could ultimately lead to a better job or the chance to pursue are entirely new path. Similarly, moving to a new city, though daunting, might provide access to new people, ideas, and experiences that foster personal development. Those who develop a keen sense of observation and a willingness to adapt are more likely to identify opportunities that others may overlook.

While some opportunities present themselves naturally, many must be created through effort and determination. People who take an active role in shaping their futures are more likely to encounter opportunities than align with their goals. This proactive approach involves setting clear objectives, continuously improving one’s skills, and seeking out environments that foster growth. Someone who desires career advancement, for example, should actively build professional relationships, seek additional training, and stay informed about industry trends. Similarly, those looking for personal fulfillment must put themselves in situations that encourage self-discovery, whether through travel, education, or community involvement. By taking initiative, individuals can increase their exposure to potential opportunities rather than waiting for them to arise.

Opportunities often come with challenges, and not everyone has equal access to them. Economic, social, and personal barriers can limit one’s ability to seize opportunities. Financial struggles may prevent individuals from pursuing education or career advancements, while social biases and systemic inequalities may create barriers to success. However, history has shown that resilience and determination can overcome many obstacles. Many successful individuals have risen from difficult circumstances by recognizing and maximizing the opportunities available to them, no matter how small. Finding creative solutions, seeking support systems, and maintaining perseverance can help individuals overcome barriers and create their own paths to success.

One of the greatest obstacles to seizing opportunities is fear. The fear of failure, rejection, or change often holds people back from taking the necessary steps to embrace new possibilities. Many individuals remain in comfortable but unfulfilling situations because the thought of stepping into the unknown is intimidating. However, those who understand that failure is often a stepping stone to success are more willing to take calculated risks. Every successful person has faced setbacks and disappointments, but their willingness to learn from these experiences allows them to be better prepared for future opportunities. Developing a mindset that embraces growth and resilience is essential in overcoming fear and taking advantage of life’s possibilities.

Opportunities are not always evenly distributed, and many individuals must work harder to create or find them. However, those who cultivate curiosity, adaptability, and persistence are more likely to discover chances that others overlook. Networking, for instance, plays a vital role in uncovering opportunities. Many job positions, business deals, and collaborations arise through personal connections rather than public advertisements. Building strong professional and personal relationships increases the likelihood of being introduced to new prospects. Engaging with different communities, attending industry events, and seeking mentorship are always to expand one’s exposure to potential opportunities.

Preparation is another key element in capitalizing on opportunities. When a chance arises, those who are ready to act immediately have a significant advantage. Preparation involves developing relevant skills, gaining knowledge, and staying informed about one’s industry or field of interest. A musician who practices diligently will be able to seize the opportunity to perform on short notice, just as an entrepreneur who understands market trends will be more equipped to launch a successful business when the right conditions arise. The ability to act swiftly and confidently when an opportunity presents itself can make the difference between success and a missed chance.

While opportunities can lead to success, not all of them will result in immediate rewards. Some opportunities require patience, persistence, and long-term investment before yielding benefits. A person may take a job opportunity that offers little financial gain initially but provides invaluable experience that leads to greater achievements later on. Similarly, an individual may invest time and effort into learning a new skill, only to see its benefits unfold years down the line. Recognizing the potential of an opportunity, even if it does not offer instant gratification, is crucial in making strategic life decisions.

Mixed opportunities are an inevitable part of life, but they can also serve as valuable learning experiences. Dwelling on regrets and what could have been is unproductive, but reflecting on past mistakes and understanding why an opportunity was missed can help individuals make better decisions in the future. Some people fail to seize opportunities due to procrastination, lack of confidence, or poor judgement. Acknowledging these shortcomings and actively working to improve decision-making skills can prevent future regrets. Life presents countless opportunities, and while some may be lost, new ones will always arise for those who remain vigilant and proactive.

The impact of opportunities extends beyond individuals and influences entire societies. Countries and communities that provide access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities foster progress and innovation. Societal growth is fueled by policies that promote entrepreneurship, equal access to resources, and technological advancements.

PASSING CLOUDS

Drifting slow in skies so wide,

Soft as whispers, light as sighs.

Shifting shapes in endless flight,

Woven threads of blue and white.

They gather high, a fleeting mass,

Shadows dance as moments pass.

One a castle, tall and bright

Another fades, lost in light.

Carried by the winds unseen,

Silent travelers, cool and clean.

They kiss the hills, embrace the sea,

Then vanish far, wild and free.

Some bring rain in silver strands,

Gentle gifts to thirsty lands,

Others melt in golden air,

Leaving only sunshine there.

Oh, passing clouds, so swift, so true,

Like dreams that float in skies of blue.

Here one moment, then they’re gone,

A fleeting touch, then move on.

THE SCIENCE OF OPTIMISM

The science of optimism delves into how a positive mind can impact various aspects of our lives, from mental and emotional well-being to physical health and overall success. Here are some key points about the science behind optimism.

1. Brain Chemistry: Optimism is associated with the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which are linked to feelings of pleasure and happiness. These chemicals can create a sense of reward and motivation, reinforcing optimistic thinking patterns.

2. Health Benefits: Numerous studies have shown that optimism is correlated with better health outcomes. Optimistic individuals tend to have stronger immune systems lower levels of stress hormones like cortisol, and reduced risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart diseases such as heart disease and hypertension.

3. Resilience: Optimism is closely tied to resilience, the ability to bounce back from adversity. Optimistic people often view challenges as temporary setbacks and believe in their ability to overcome obstacles, leading to greater perseverance and adaptability.

4. Social Connections: Optimistic individuals tend to have stronger social support networks. Their positive outlook and upbeat demeanor can attract others and foster deeper, more meaningful relationships, which in turn contribute to overall well-being.

5. Performance Enhancement: Optimism can improve performance in various domains, including academics, sports, and career success. Optimistic individuals are more likely to set ambitious goals, stay motivated in the face of setbacks, and maintain a growth mindset that fuels continuous improvement.

6. Cognitive Bias: Optimism is also influenced by cognitive biases such as the optimism bias, which leads people to overestimate positive outcomes and underestimate negative ones. While this bias can sometimes lead to underestimate positive outcomes and underestimate negative ones. While this bias can sometimes lead to unrealistic expectations, it also serves as protective mechanism against excessive worry and anxiety.

7. Learn Optimism: Psychologist Martin Seligman introduced the concept of "learned optimism," supporting that individuals can cultivate a more optimistic outlook through cognitive restructuring techniques. This involves challenging negative thought patterns, reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth, and focusing on positive aspects of situations.

8. Cultural and Environmental Factors: Optimism can be influenced by cultural beliefs and societal norms. For example, cultures that emphasize individualism and personal achievement may foster a greater sense of optimism compared to those that prioritize collective well-being or highlight systemic challenges.

9. Optimism and Brain Plasticity: Research suggests that practicing optimism can lead to changes in brain structure and function. The brain exhibits plasticity, meaning it can recognize itself and form new neural connections based on experiences and behaviors. Regularly engaging in optimistic thinking can strengthen neural pathways associated with positive emotions and resilience.

10. Optimism and Stress Management: Optimistic individuals tend to cope better with stress an adversity. They are more likely to use constructive coping strategies such as problem solving, seeking social support, and reframing challenges in a positive light. This proactive approach to stress management can reduce the negative impact of stress management on physical and mental health.