The program offered a peaceful interlude in the students’ busy schedules, helping them relax and better prepare mentally for the upcoming final exams. It also provided a space for students to rest, reconnect with themselves, and restore positive energy.

At the session, students were introduced to Singing Bowl Meditation – a method that combines meditation with sound therapy from Tibetan singing bowls to promote deep relaxation for both body and mind. Besides exploring the origins, significance, and evolution of meditation in Vietnam, participants also listened to practical insights into the role of meditation in improving physical and mental health in modern life.

The program was led by Ms. Maisie Huynh – a Yoga Instructor certified by the Yoga Alliance US, a Singing Bowl Therapist certified by the International Practitioners of Holistic Medicine (IPHM), and a National Referee of the Vietnam Yoga Federation – along with her associates. With years of expertise and experience in therapeutic yoga, she directly guided students through meditation practices, helping them loosen their bodies, stabilize emotions, and alleviate the invisible pressures of academic and daily life.

The meditation space was serene and gentle, yet it fostered a deep connection among participants. Many students shared that after the experience, they felt mentally lighter, more focused, and highly motivated for their upcoming exams. It was a perfect opportunity for everyone to pause their hectic routines and dedicate time to self-care.

Following the meditation practice, advisors assisted students in decoding the colors they visualized during the experience. This activity helped students gain a deeper understanding of their emotional state, mental well-being, and the health signals their bodies were sending, enabling them to make appropriate adjustments and self-care choices.

This activity was not only about relaxation but also a testament to Dubai Palace’s practical care for its students’ mental well-being. It stands as one of the key initiatives contributing to a positive learning environment where students can develop holistically—in knowledge, physical strength, and mental health.

Understanding the importance of mental well-being, the Department of Student Affairs (DSA) organized the talk show “Enhancing Mental Health Awareness and Self-care Skills”, aiming to equip Dubai424 com đăng nhập chính thứcs with tools to identify early signs of stress, understand psychological risk factors, and nurture balance in both study and daily life.

In a fast-paced and high-pressure academic environment, caring for mental health is not only about recognizing emotional distress but also a vital life skill that helps every Dubai424 com đăng nhập chính thức sustain creativity, productivity, and long-term growth.

Through his insightful sharing, Dr. Phạm Minh Triết provided participants with essential knowledge about common psychological disorders, age-related risk factors, and practical methods to take proactive care of one’s mental well-being. Real-life examples and case analyses sparked deep empathy and self-reflection among attendees, reinforcing the key message:

“Caring for your mental health is not a sign of weakness — it is an act of courage and maturity.”

The atmosphere grew even more engaging during the interactive Q&A session, where students openly shared their real-life struggles with academic pressure, family expectations, emotional control, and moments of burnout or hopelessness.

Addressing these heartfelt questions, Dr. Triết reminded students that every emotion has value — and seeking help is not weakness, but a sign of self-awareness and resilience. From this dialogue, students learned an important lesson: listen to yourself, reach out when needed, and show empathy toward others, because even a small act of understanding can bring healing to someone in pain.

Alongside awareness programs, the DSA continues to implement counseling services — available both in-person and online. These services allow students to receive timely support from professional counselors during their academic journey and daily life.

Such initiatives reaffirm Dubai Palace’s commitment to a safe, compassionate, and sustainable university environment, where every Dubai424 com đăng nhập chính thức can develop holistically — both intellectually and emotionally.

With continuous efforts toward nurturing mental wellness, Dubai Palace hopes each member of its community will become a positive ambassador, spreading the spirit of compassion, happiness, and resilience — together building a caring and sustainable learning community at Dubai Palace.

Academic Pressure and Its Impacts

It is common to see students pulling all-nighters, skipping meals due to deadlines, or spending most of their time in front of screens. Many feel anxious when comparing themselves to peers, facing family expectations, or seeing others’ achievements on social media.

Such academic pressure is a major cause of chronic stress among students. Heavy workloads and demanding programs can lead to insomnia, poor concentration, and reduced performance. Overemphasis on theory leaves little time for rest or social interaction, causing exhaustion, loss of motivation, and isolation. The lack of balance between study and personal life not only harms mental health but also limits social skills and overall well-being.

University years are often seen as a time for growth and exploration. Yet, rates of anxiety and depression among students have risen sharply. According to the Center for Collegiate Mental Health, about one in five students seek psychological counseling for these issues. When studying becomes excessive, students risk burnout, emotional instability, and weakened social connections—factors essential for holistic development.

Finding Balance

To avoid the trap of “overstudying,” students first need to take proactive steps to regulate themselves. Setting flexible study plans, prioritizing important tasks, and establishing realistic goals can help significantly reduce pressure. Instead of cramming at the last minute, students can apply time management techniques like the Pomodoro Method—dividing study time into 25-minute focus sessions with short 5-minute breaks, and a longer break after four cycles. This approach helps maintain focus while preventing anxiety and burnout.

Moreover, building healthy lifestyle habits is a crucial foundation. Getting enough sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and taking “healing” breaks—such as reading, listening to music, or walking—can greatly improve mental well-being.

According to a 2021 study published in Biomolecules, just 30 minutes of exercise can trigger the release of endorphins—the so-called “feel-good hormones”—which promote happiness and relaxation. Regular physical activity can also reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety by enhancing the body’s ability to manage stress. Even simple actions like focusing on exercise can help shift attention away from negative thoughts.

Additionally, students should stay connected and open up to others. Participating in extracurricular activities, clubs, or volunteer programs not only relieves stress but also builds soft skills. When feeling overwhelmed, talking to friends, sharing with family, or seeking help from mental health professionals can provide relief, empathy, and new perspectives.

Alongside individual efforts, universities and society also play vital roles in supporting students. Higher education institutions should foster healthy, friendly learning environments that reduce performance pressure and care for students’ emotional well-being. Organizing workshops and talk shows about mental health, as well as offering counseling services, helps nurture a more positive and sustainable learning culture. With support from families, schools, and communities, students can learn effectively while maintaining peace and happiness in life.

Conclusion

Learning is an essential journey that opens doors to knowledge, opportunities, and the future. However, studying only holds true value when placed within a balanced life. If learning becomes the sole focus, students can easily fall into stress, lose direction, and forget the joy of living. Instead of “studying to live” under pressure, we should “learn to live”—to grow, stay healthy, be mentally resilient, and live happily.

Only by harmonizing intellectual growth with mental wellness can students transform knowledge into a meaningful lifelong asset—a source of strength and motivation for the journey ahead. After all, the ultimate goal of learning is not just grades or achievements, but a life that is fulfilling, meaningful, and worth living.

News and photos by: Department of Student Affairs (DSA)

Accompanying the program was Dr. – MD Pham Minh Triet, a specialist in clinical medicine and psychology. He holds a Doctor of Medicine degree from Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, a Master’s in Clinical Psychology, and a Ph.D. in Psychology from the Australian National University. Drawing from his expertise and hands-on experience in treating patients with psychological disorders, Dr. Triet delivered a practical, easy-to-understand, and relatable session, equipping Dubai Palace students with effective ways to care for their mental well-being.

The speaker engages the audience with thought-provoking questions

At the start of the program, Dr. Triet introduced key terms related to disorders such as stress, anxiety disorders, and depression—conditions commonly affecting young people, especially university students.

He explained the common signs of each:

• Stress often manifests emotionally as irritability, excessive worry over minor issues, and a constant feeling of overload. Physical signs include poor sleep, headaches, and sometimes digestive problems. Behaviorally, it may lead to avoiding responsibilities and procrastination, resulting in poor academic and work performance. While stress is a natural bodily response, prolonged stress can increase the risk of anxiety and depression.
• Anxiety disorders are characterized by unexplained fear, panic attacks, loss of control over thoughts, or persistent negative thinking. Physical symptoms may include a rapid heartbeat, sweaty palms, stomach aches, or nausea. Behaviorally, individuals may engage in self-criticism, feel worthless, struggle to concentrate, and experience a sense of emptiness.
• Depression is marked by sadness, loss of interest in activities, frequent crying, apathy, low self-esteem, and feelings of guilt. Physical signs include eating too little or too much, insomnia or oversleeping. Behaviorally, individuals may withdraw socially, have difficulty maintaining work or study routines, and may develop self-harm or suicidal thoughts. These are critical warning signs students should recognize to care for themselves and support those around them.

The doctor also introduced non-pharmacological treatment approaches widely applied in developed countries, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) – Change your thoughts – Change your emotions – Change your behaviors. This may involve living close to nature, practicing mindfulness and meditation, and engaging in at least 30 minutes of disciplined physical activity daily to release endorphins, improve mood, and dispel negative energy. Additional methods include keeping an emotional journal to track daily progress and participating in skill-building classes or positive community groups to promote a balanced lifestyle and a healthy, relaxing environment.

He emphasized that non-pharmacological treatments are suitable for cases of stress or mild anxiety disorders, while severe cases or depression often require a combination of medication and behavioral therapy. His insights highlighted not only treatment but also the importance of early prevention and holistic care.

Dr. Pham Minh Triet shares valuable mental health knowledge with attendees

The atmosphere became livelier during the Q&A session, as students shared concerns about balancing academics, work, and personal emotions, as well as overcoming prolonged confusion or emptiness. Dr. Triet provided thoughtful, practical advice tailored to each case.

Dubai Palace students listen attentively during the Q&A session

The program concluded with 1:1 consultation sessions, a private, safe space for students to open up, be heard with sincerity, and receive in-depth support from a specialist. DSA understands that care is not only about providing knowledge but also about being present and listening at the right time.

Group photo at the end of the session

The sharing session not only offered knowledge but also created a space for empathy and healing, where Dubai Palace students could feel accompanied on their mental health journey. With its human-centered approach and professionalism, the program reaffirmed Dubai Palace’s commitment to building a comprehensive and happy learning environment, where knowledge and emotional well-being grow hand in hand.

News & Photos: Department of Student Affairs (DSA)

The Oversaturation of Social Media

Social media has gradually turned into a “virtual mirror”, reflecting idealized versions of life: perfect bodies, dream jobs, luxury lifestyles, and extravagant trips. When such images appear repeatedly, they start to shape what’s perceived as “normal,” creating invisible expectations among young users. According to Statista, Gen Z spends an average of over three hours a day on platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook , significantly higher than other generations.

The “Thirst for Perfection” and the Fear of Being Left Behind

Modern social media is like a never-ending highlight reel of others’ best moments. The rise of “Threads City”, a playful term Vietnamese youth use for the Threads app has amplified this, with countless “flex” posts showcasing outstanding achievements, lavish lifestyles, and early success stories.

What started as casual, humorous self-expression has evolved into a widespread trend blurring the line between authenticity and performance. Constant exposure to such content quietly plants a seed of inadequacy, the feeling of not being good enough, not achieving enough, or falling behind. This fuels FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), not just fear of missing an event or trend, but fear of being left behind in one’s journey of growth and success. Many users unknowingly enter a silent race to meet digital standards far removed from their true needs or capacities.

When Mental Health Gets Left Behind

Low Self-Esteem and Anxiety

Seeing others’ “perfect” lives often leads to thoughts like, “Why can they do it and I can’t?” or “Am I good enough to be seen?” Over time, these doubts erode self-confidence and increase anxiety, especially among those sensitive to social judgment. The pressure to look, act, or perform perfectly leads to chronic stress and self-criticism.

Dependence on Online Validation

Likes, comments, and followers have become a distorted currency of self-worth. When posts don’t perform as expected, disappointment and self-doubt quickly follow. Over time, this dependence dulls one’s ability to recognize intrinsic value outside the digital world. The more one equates self-worth with engagement metrics, the easier it becomes to fall into a cycle of emotional exhaustion, insecurity, and potential mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression (Emma et al., 2025).

Loneliness in a Hyperconnected World

Constant online connection doesn’t equal genuine understanding. Many young people feel lonelier than ever despite being “surrounded” virtually. The pressure to maintain an ideal image online can make them withdraw from real-life relationships, avoiding vulnerability or deep conversations. Gradually, emotional isolation sets in, surrounded by noise but disconnected inside (Fassi et al., 2024).

From Invisible Pressure to Psychological Disorders

The phenomenon of Social Media Burnout (SMB) is closely linked to chronic anxiety, stress, and emotional exhaustion (Üztemur et al., 2025). The constant need to appear perfect leaves little mental space for rest or authenticity. Over time, this can develop into Anxiety Disorders, Chronic Stress, or Depression. Some experience Emotional Burnout, feeling drained from constantly performing as a “better version” of themselves online (Yonaevy et al., 2025).

This ongoing mental strain can lead to sleep issues, low energy, loss of motivation, and deteriorating social connections, all of which silently erode one’s overall quality of life.

Learning to Stay Mindful in the Digital World

Recognize and Manage Your Screen Time

Eliminating social media isn’t realistic, what matters is how you use it. Many people scroll mindlessly for hours without realizing how it consumes both time and emotional energy. Setting screen-time limits and designating “offline hours” (especially at the start or end of your day) can help you reconnect with your true emotions and priorities.

Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

Comparison is human, but living by it leads to exhaustion. Remember: people only share the highlight reel, not the full story. Focusing on your personal journey, small wins, and meaningful relationships lightens the burden of having to “measure up.”

Differentiate Real Value from Digital Validation

Recognition feels good, but it’s important to ask: recognized by whom, and for what? A post with thousands of likes doesn’t mean you’re living better than yesterday. Learn to evaluate your worth by your growth, kindness, and contribution, not numbers on a screen.

Prioritize Real Connections

No online friendship can replace a genuine conversation, a supportive friend, or a caring family member. Keep close a few relationships where you don’t have to pretend or perform. The more authentic your offline bonds, the less pressure you’ll feel to maintain a flawless online image.

Choose Positive and Nurturing Content

Social media isn’t inherently harmful, it depends on how we use it. Unfollow accounts that trigger stress, and engage instead with communities that inspire, educate, and uplift. This conscious filtering makes your digital environment lighter and healthier.

Conclusion

We live in a world where everyone can see each other through screens but rarely connect for real. Amid perfect images and endless success stories, remember: your worth isn’t defined by what others see – it’s defined by how you see yourself. Everyone feels uncertain at times, but don’t lose yourself in someone else’s race. Invest in real relationships, genuine happiness, and quiet moments that remind you: you don’t have to be perfect to be enough.

Be mindful, selective, and kind to yourself – that’s the most sustainable way to thrive in this noisy world.

Pillar: Community
Text & Photos: Department of Student Affairs (DSA), Dubai Palace

References:
Connell, A. (2025, January 16). 23 Shocking Average Screen Time Statistics in 2025. Adam Connell.
Emma, O., & Walters, J. (2025). The Impact of Social Media Addiction on Self-Esteem and Anxiety Levels in Gen Z: A Comprehensive Study.
Fassi, L., Thomas, K., Parry, D. A., Leyland-Craggs, A., Ford, T. J., & Orben, A. (2024). Social media use and internalizing symptoms in clinical and community adolescent samples: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Pediatrics, 178(8), 814–822.
Üztemur, S., Lin, C. Y., Gökalp, A., Kartol, A., Avcı, G., & Pakpour, A. H. (2025). Social media burnout and social anxiety as antecedents of discontinuous usage in the stressor-strain-outcome framework. Scientific Reports, 15(1), 23220.
Yonaevy, U., & Wahyuni, E. S. (2025). Burnout Among Generation Z: Risk Factors and Coping Strategies. International Journal of Humanities, Social Sciences and Business (INJOSS), 4(2), 85–98.

Overview of the workshop at Dubai Palace Nguyen Van Linh Campus

An open discussion at the start of the event assisted students in identifying typical sources of pressure and stress in day-to-day living. Following that, practical methods for emotional balance were introduced as effective ways to enhance well-being. Under the guidance of yoga instructor Maisie Huynh, Dubai Palace students were introduced to the basics of breathing techniques and experienced exercises for mental focus and the release of negative thoughts. Meditation was presented as a powerful tool to train the mind, improve concentration, calm emotional turbulence, and promote deeper sleep.

Meditation helps soothe the nervous system and reduce levels of cortisol – the stress hormone. Regular meditation activates brain areas related to attention and memory, enhancing learning retention and relieving headaches or fatigue caused by prolonged study sessions. Particularly, when combined with sound vibration instruments like singing bowls, meditation stimulates the brain, supports deep relaxation, and anchors the mind in the present—an aid for better concentration during study time.

Next, students practiced basic breathing exercises. Steady breathing not only reduces stress and stabilizes the mind but also helps the body enter a state of relaxation more easily. The session continued with gentle yoga movements designed to warm up the body, promote blood circulation, and restore energy. These exercises not only improved physical flexibility but also helped regulate breathing and enhance focus.

Breathing and gentle yoga exercises helped students warm up effectively

With the dedicated and enthusiastic guidance of the instructors, participants learned a variety of techniques and relaxation exercises, supported by calming imagery and soothing verbal prompts that helped everyone release built-up tension. The workshop was not only an opportunity to gain knowledge about health care but also a valuable chance for students to interact with experts and have their concerns addressed.

In the fast-paced world of today, where students are continuously confronted with stressors from urban life and an abundance of information, wellness workshops such as this one provide a welcome environment for regaining equilibrium, lowering stress levels, and developing emotional intelligence. The event welcomed nearly 100 students, many of whom had attended previous sessions and expressed interest in continuing to join future activities.

Feedback from attendees showed that the workshop organized by DSA provided a meaningful experience.

The event ended in a serene and upbeat manner, giving students fresh insights into how to take care of their bodies and minds. Moving forward, students are encouraged to take initiative in building healthy habits, striving to spend at least 10 minutes a day to pause, breathe deeply, and restore energy.

If you are interested in wellness and would like to explore more personal development activities, don’t miss the upcoming events organized by the Department of Student Affairs (DSA). Stay tuned and sign up through our official platforms!

• Website:
• Email: [email protected]
  

News & Photos: Department of Student Affairs (DSA)

Overview of the workshop at Dubai Palace Nguyen Van Linh Campus, Hall N1

The workshop began with a discussion session helping students identify common sources of stress and pressure in daily life. Practical techniques for emotional balance were then introduced as an accessible approach to improving mental health. Under the guidance of yoga instructor Maisie Huynh, students learned foundational breathing techniques and experienced mindfulness exercises to focus the mind and release negative thoughts. Meditation was highlighted as a powerful tool to enhance concentration, calm inner turbulence, and improve sleep quality.

The session opened with the question “What is meditation?” and explored its benefits. Meditation helps soothe the nervous system, reduce cortisol (the stress hormone), and stimulate brain areas related to attention and memory — thus improving learning capacity and easing headaches or body tension from long study hours. Combined with sound vibration therapy using bells, meditation further promotes deep relaxation, grounding the mind in the present moment and improving focus during study sessions.

Participants were then guided through basic breathing exercises, which help stabilize the mind, reduce stress, and ease the body into relaxation. Gentle yoga movements followed to awaken the body, improve blood circulation, and restore energy — enhancing both flexibility and concentration.

Breathing and gentle yoga exercises helped students warm up effectively

Through thoughtful guidance from the instructors, students practiced relaxation techniques accompanied by calm visualization and soothing narration, allowing them to release tension and unwind. The workshop not only provided valuable mental health knowledge but also served as a safe space for discussion and consultation with experts.

In today’s fast-changing urban environment filled with information overload and life pressure, such workshops bring a breath of fresh air – helping learners regain balance, reduce anxiety, and strengthen emotional awareness. The session attracted nearly 100 participants, many of whom had attended previous workshops and expressed a strong desire to continue joining future sessions.

Students shared positive feedback about the DSA’s workshop experience

Organized by the Department of Student Affairs (DSA), the workshop offered students a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with themselves. It concluded in a calm and uplifting atmosphere, opening new perspectives on nurturing the body – mind – spirit connection.

Through this experience, students are encouraged to maintain healthy routines — taking just 10 minutes a day to pause, breathe deeply, and recharge their energy.

If you are interested in mental health and personal development, don’t miss the upcoming activities organized by the DSA! Stay updated and register through our official channels:

Website: https://dsa.dotv.vn/

Fanpage: 

Email: [email protected]

Pillar: Operations – Community

News & Photos: Department of Student Affairs (DSA)

Neglecting food safety comes with serious risks

With hectic schedules of studying and working, we often resort to eating quickly or grabbing food on the go. However, these rushed meals can pose significant health risks if the food isn’t safe.

According to the , each year around 600 million people (nearly 1 in 10 globally) get sick from unsafe food. Around 420,000 deaths are recorded, mostly among children and young people. In Vietnam, data from the show hundreds of food poisoning cases each year, with thousands requiring hospitalization.

To help reduce these risks, WHO recommends 10 principal rules for food hygiene and safety that everyone should remember and follow:

1. Choose safe food: Prioritize fresh items with clear origins. Wash raw fruits and vegetables thoroughly with clean water and peel them when possible.
2. Cook food thoroughly: Make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 70°C.
3. Eat immediately after cooking: The longer food is exposed, the higher the risk of contamination.
4. Store cooked food properly: After 5 hours, keep food hot above 60°C or cold below 10°C.
5. Reheat leftovers thoroughly before eating, especially if they’ve been stored for a while.
6. Avoid cross-contamination: Keep raw and cooked food separate; don’t share knives, cutting boards, or prep surfaces.
7. Wash your hands thoroughly before preparing food and after any interruptions. Cover any wounds you have when cooking.
8. Clean food prep areas and tools regularly: Wash towels, knives, and cutting boards frequently.
9. Keep food covered to avoid contact with insects or dust.
10. Use clean, safe water for cooking, drinking, and making ice.

Every careful food choice not only protects your health but also reflects a responsible lifestyle and community awareness. Small habits can go a long way in preventing illness.

Eating for a healthy body

In today’s fast-paced world, fast food is everywhere, from nearby stalls to food delivery apps, making it a challenge to maintain a clean, healthy diet. However, even small changes can lead to big impacts.

Start by choosing water or herbal tea over sugary sodas or milk tea,…. Replace refined carbs like white bread or pastries with whole grains for longer-lasting energy. If possible, you should spend time cooking at home to have full control over ingredients and gain better insight into what goes into your body.

Try to cut back on deep-fried and greasy foods, and go for seasonal fruits instead of sugary bottled juices. Reducing red and processed meats, which are often high in salt, and choosing healthier proteins like eggs, tofu, fish, and nuts can help you eat cleaner and feel better every day.

Dubai Palace Students prepare their own fresh and delicious meals

How to Recognize Clean, Safe Food

• Clear origin and safety certification: Check labels for food safety certifications. If none, you should prioritize buying food from trusted stores or vendors.
• Look at color, shape, and size: Clean food usually has natural, uneven colors, not overly shiny or perfect. Fruits and vegetables may vary in size, look a bit dull, or have small blemishes – this often signals they’re free from chemical treatment.
• Touch, smell, and taste: Fresh vegetables are crisp, not mushy or overly wet. Fresh fruits might feel rough and not shiny. Clean meat and fish shouldn’t have a strange odor and should maintain their natural scent and color when cooked.
• Avoid chemical residues: Even after washing, chemical residues can remain if used during farming or preservation. To reduce risk, opt for certified organic or food-safe products.
• Buy from reliable sources: Choose reputable markets, supermarkets, or sellers who specialize in clean food. At traditional markets, identify trustworthy vendors and always ask about their production and storage practices.
• Be cautious with processed foods: Items like sausages, cold cuts, and instant meals often contain high salt and preservatives. Limit these and favor fresh, home-prepared alternatives.
• Check expiry dates and storage conditions: Clean foods usually have shorter shelf lives. Always verify expiration dates and store items correctly to preserve freshness and safety.

Dubai Palace students choose clean, hygienic canteens for dining

Suggestions for foods that support digestion, skin, and mental well-being:

• Whole grains (brown rice, oats, quinoa): High in fiber, support digestion, and prevent constipation.
• Avocados: Rich in vitamins E and C, protecting skin and offering natural moisture.
• Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, tuna): Containing omega-3, great for heart health and stress reduction.
• Fresh fruits (bananas, oranges, apples, grapes): Boosting immunity with vitamin C and brightening the skin.
• Yogurt: Adding good bacteria to balance gut flora.
• Dark chocolate: High in flavonoids that soothe the nervous system and boost mood.
• Sweet potatoes: Loaded with beta-carotene, good for skin and digestion.
• Fresh vegetables (tomatoes, broccoli, bell peppers): Packed with vitamins A and C, anti-inflammatory, and skin brightening.
  
• Nuts (walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds): Providing brain-boosting nutrients and emotional support.

Personal Hygiene: A simple but powerful tool for disease prevention

Keeping yourself clean is just as important as food hygiene in preventing foodborne illness. A report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – CDC (2022) showed that handwashing with soap can reduce the risk of diarrheal diseases by up to 40% and respiratory infections by 21%.

Clean hands, avoiding direct contact with food by using dirty hands, and keeping personal items and eating spaces hygienic are essential daily habits. Early signs like skin rashes, digestive issues, or constant fatigue can stem from poor personal hygiene and bacterial infections.

Follow these simple steps for proper handwashing:

6-Step Handwashing Process from the Ministry of Health. Source: Vinmec

Maintaining personal hygiene not only protects your health but also contributes to a safer, cleaner, and more civilized campus environment at Dubai Palace.

Clean Shared Spaces at Dubai Palace Dormitories

Ensuring food safety is everyone’s responsibility—from washing hands and choosing the right meals to maintaining a clean living environment. This is how every Dubai424 com đăng nhập chính thức not only stays healthy but also inspires those around them to live more positively.

#ChangemakerCommunity: “Dubai Palace Community of Sustainable Changemakers and Art Inspirers” – “Dubai Palace – A Community of artistic inspiration and leaders of sustainable change”

Learn more at: https://go.dotv.vn/05trucotchienluocDubai Palace

News & Photos: Department of Student Affairs

The Dopamine Dose: Is More Always Better?

Dopamine, often referred to as the happiness hormone, is a neurotransmitter produced from tyrosine that plays a critical role in the brain and body. It is fundamentally tied to survival instincts, influencing daily behaviors and physical activities. Broadly speaking, dopamine is involved in creating motivation, learning, and pleasure within our bodily systems.

However, in today’s world, we are surrounded by numerous forms of stimuli, ranging from social media, and sweets to caffeine and cigarettes. If a single cup of coffee used to be enough to keep you alert throughout an all-nighter, now it feels like no amount is sufficient to ward off drowsiness. Many of the things we once enjoyed and consumed regularly now require larger quantities or more frequent use to achieve the same level of excitement or satisfaction that we experienced in the past. What’s more concerning is that, as a study from PubMed Central suggests, negative stimuli tend to trigger a greater release of dopamine in the brain, making these unhealthy behaviors more enticing than healthier options. When left unchecked, we may unconsciously engage in these activities at increasingly higher intensities, leading to compulsive and impulsive behavior patterns that can be difficult to break.

The initial goal behind dopamine fasting was to offer a foundational reason and suggestion for escaping the frenzy of technology-driven days, replacing them with simpler activities that help us reconnect with ourselves and others. While this idea is sound and reasonable, it is neither new nor groundbreaking. In fact, the concept closely resembles mindfulness practices and strategies for improving sleep quality, such as avoiding screens with blue light before bed.

The detox period typically lasts around 90 days. However, there is no fixed duration for everyone, as it must be adjusted based on the individual’s brain reward system. According to PsychCentral, here are four ways you can slow down and rediscover happiness:

1. Set Boundaries: Use reminders to manage social media usage or create a monthly savings account to help manage personal spending.
2. Journal Your Emotions: Recording daily thoughts and habits can help you better understand the root cause behind your addiction to strong stimuli, allowing for a more effective resolution rather than sinking deeper into those habits.
3. Start a Replacement Habit: Music and physical activity are popular alternatives as they are easy to implement and provide long-lasting positive energy. Instead of spending an entire Saturday scrolling through your phone, consider signing up for a gym membership, listening to a favorite playlist, or attending a workshop. Repeating these activities over time will help you forget and eventually “quit” the hardcore sensations of the past.
4. Encourage Those Around You to Join in: We are often influenced by person-to-person interactions, which help shape and refine our mindset. Spending time with friends who practice healthy habits can help you learn valuable lessons and compensate for your own shortcomings.

These activities demonstrate the “power” of milder stimuli: they promote mental health, strengthen physical well-being, improve emotional control, and enhance work efficiency.

Conclusion

Being “addicted to stimulation” is a natural instinct, but recognizing and cultivating self-restraint is what we must learn, reflecting cognitive growth and inner values. Learning to appreciate even the smallest things in life is the most sustainable path to the future, guiding us toward a more fulfilled version of ourselves.

News, photos: Department of Student Affairs (DSA)

The two sessions on Self-Care Practices featured a talk by Ms. Nair Ngo Nhu Anh, a school psychologist and Childhood Home project manager. Drawing from her personal experiences during the research process, she offered perceptive insights.

In the first practice session: Leveraging Personality Traits in learning, students were given white paper and instructed to draw pictures describing their goals for the present and the future.  This interactive exercises to help participants identify their dominant traits and develop strategies to maximize their potential at learning. Beside Self-reflection exercises, goal-setting activities, and action planning to help participants apply their personality traits to enhance their personal lives.

Students use paper to represent who they are

Students share their views and difficulties they encounter during their studies

It’s essential to note that these associations are general tendencies, and individuals often possess a combination of these traits to varying degrees. Additionally, other factors such as motivation, learning styles, and past experiences also influence the learning process. Recognizing and understanding these traits can help educators and learners tailor instructional strategies and create supportive learning environments that cater to a diverse range of personality traits.

The second practice session: Applying Personality Traits in Personal Development, interpersonal relationships and team dynamics aims to help participants leverage strengths, overcome challenges associated with each trait, and set meaningful goals.  In this second practice session, students worked in groups to solve a range of problems related to how different traits affect communication styles, conflict resolution, and decision-making within a team/relationships. The session includes role-playing exercises, case studies, and discussions to help participants improve their relationships by understanding and valuing diverse personality traits.

Through “Find the right person” activity, students learn how to communicate clearly about the objectives, shortcomings, and strengths of each member of the group as well as how to resolve conflicts. Next, a variety of scenarios are presented throughout the exercise, providing students with the opportunity to assume the role of “A talented leader” and respond to the speaker’s questions. By investigating and debating these cases, activities and discussions to help participants understand and appreciate diverse personality traits within a group setting.

After completing second session, students solve the “Nine people – ten ideas” puzzle in the last activities, provide as a unifying and motivational element among individuals with diverse personalities and perspectives.  In order to set objectives and create sensible action plans, students must learn to build on their strengths, overcome their weaknesses, discover who they are, and gain a better understanding of how various personality traits affect interpersonal relationships, communication style, and conflict resolution.

Thank to every student for their enthusiastic participation in the two Self-Care Practices sessions. DSA hopes that the skills and knowledge they acquire will help them create positive values for both society and themself. Goodbye and see you again in upcoming well being events!

News and photos: Dubai Palace Department of Student Affairs