If you’ve ever dreamed of gliding weightlessly through clear blue water, coming face-to-face with colorful marine life, or discovering a hidden world beneath the surface, scuba diving might be the adventure you've been waiting for. Whether you're in your 30s or your 70s, scuba diving offers excitement, serenity, and a chance to connect with nature—and yourself—in a way few other activities can.

Starting or joining a co-housing project is an exciting opportunity—one that offers the promise of community, shared resources, mutual support, and a more intentional way of living. But as anyone who has lived with others knows, harmony doesn’t just happen. Choosing the right partners is one of the most critical steps in the success of a co-housing venture.

In our hyper-connected world, it’s easy to take the conveniences of modern technology for granted. But what would you do if the internet and power suddenly went down? This might sound like a far-off dystopian scenario, but recent events, like the CrowdStrike outage, have shown how quickly critical systems can fail, leaving millions without access to the tools they depend on. Planning for such possibilities isn’t alarmist—it’s practical.

For many older single women, housing insecurity can come as an unwelcome surprise. We’ve spent our best decades building a family, caring for loved ones, and holding down a career. The reward is often divorce, job loss, and estrangement. When coupled with scarcity of suitable affordable housing, and cost of living far outstripping earnings or interest from savings, it becomes hard to keep a roof over your head.

Retirement is a wonderful time to enjoy life’s treasures, to finally prioritize the things that truly matter. But the key to a fulfilling retirement doesn’t necessarily lie in how much you have to spend, but in how you spend. Aligning your finances with your personal values can make your retirement years rich with purpose and satisfaction, no matter your budget.

Living in a housing cooperative can be a rewarding experience. Shared spaces, mutual support, and collective decision-making can foster a genuine sense of community and security. But to make this work smoothly, clear and thoughtful community rules are essential. They’re the backbone of a co-op—providing structure, guiding behavior, and helping to resolve disputes before they escalate.

It’s never too late to begin again—especially when your heart is set on something as timeless as painting. For many women, retirement or an empty nest offers a long-awaited moment to pick up a paintbrush and finally follow a creative path. But for some, it’s not just a hobby—it becomes a second act, a way to express themselves and make a living.

Volunteering on an archaeological dig offers a chance to step back in time, learn about history, and contribute to significant research efforts. Whether you're a history buff, an adventure seeker, or just looking for a unique travel experience, there are archaeological digs worldwide that welcome volunteers of all ages and backgrounds.

As I sit in a quiet corner, a cup of herbal tea cradled between my palms, I find myself musing over questions that may be familiar to many women at my stage of life. Mine seem to have been crafted from the fabric of my experiences and the looming unknowns that color my future. There’s an undeniable uncertainty surrounding the years ahead; a blend of excitement and trepidation; a delicate dance between hope and uncertainty.

Ah, the “invisible woman syndrome.” It's that magical age where women start to feel like background extras in a movie about their own lives. Social situations, the workplace, media—suddenly, we're all playing hide and seek, but only we know we're playing.

Underwater museums and art sites serve multiple purposes beyond aesthetics. Many installations are designed as artificial reefs to aid marine conservation efforts, providing new habitats for fish and coral while alleviating pressure on natural reefs. Moreover, these projects often carry powerful messages about climate change, human impact on the environment, and cultural heritage.

The art world is set to dazzle in 2025 with a series of must-see exhibitions spanning Paris, Rome, St Ives, and New York. From the intricate designs of Dolce & Gabbana to the overlooked masterpieces of female painters, these events offer a feast for the senses and the intellect alike. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, a champion of female artists, a lover of surrealist visions, or an admirer of Dutch masters, 2025’s art calendar promises something extraordinary. So mark your calendars as art and fashion lovers won’t want to miss this spectacular year of creativity and history!

For centuries, the ancient art of Penjing has captivated hearts with its ability to transform nature into a miniature, mystical world. Originating in China over 1,300 years ago, Penjing—translated as "pot scenery"—is the precursor to the Japanese bonsai. In fact, Buddhist monks from China brought the art form to Japan! While both art forms involve cultivating and shaping miniature trees, Penjing encompasses a broader, more expressive approach. It’s a creative practice steeped in history, philosophy, and artistry, offering not only aesthetic pleasure but also profound mental health benefits.

The term “end-of-life doula” may not be widely known, but their role is as significant as it is ancient. Known as death doulas, death walkers, transition guides or soul companions, these compassionate individuals offer emotional, practical, and spiritual support to those nearing the end of life and their families.

If you’ve ever traveled abroad or used public Wi-Fi at a cafe, you’ve probably heard the term "VPN" tossed around. VPN stands for Virtual Private Network, and it’s a handy tool that helps keep your internet connection secure by hiding your online activities. But did you know that just because a VPN runs on your phone doesn’t automatically make it a mobile VPN?

A Puja Room is a dedicated area in a home where individuals perform prayers, rituals, and meditation. Rooted in Indian culture and spirituality, the Puja Room serves as a sanctuary for connecting with divine energies, fostering peace, and seeking blessings. It is often considered the most auspicious and pure space in a household, symbolizing the convergence of spirituality and tradition.

Writing your life story can be a deeply rewarding endeavor, offering a way to reflect on your experiences, share your legacy, and provide insight for future generations. However, crafting your narrative requires careful consideration of what to include and what to omit. Here’s a guide on how to write your life story effectively, along with key points on what to avoid revealing and thoughts on publishing your work.

You’ve likely encountered spaces that just feel right; the serene balance of a Japanese tea house, the vibrant energy of an Indian courtyard, or the quiet harmony of a Scandinavian retreat. These experiences can linger in your memory, inspiring you to recreate that same sense of flow and purpose in your own living spaces. Whether you’re at home or decorating a private retreat, the practices of Vastu Shastra and Feng Shui offer a way to harmonize energy and bring peace to your surroundings.

If you’re tired of the same old Christmas traditions—sparkly trees, saccharine carols, and endless fruitcake—then it’s time to shake things up. Why settle for ho-hum holiday cheer when the world is brimming with bizarre and wonderfully weird festive displays? From goats that beg to be set on fire to fried chicken feasts that put grandma’s roast to shame, these holiday spectacles will have you questioning everything you thought you knew about Christmas.

Mulled wine is a beloved holiday tradition enjoyed across the globe, warming us up and filling our homes with delightful, spiced aromas. While the base of mulled wine is usually red wine, every culture has its own unique twist on the recipe. From the traditional French "vin chaud" to Argentina's "clericot" version, here are five mulled wine recipes from around the world that bring distinct flavors to the table.