Celebrating Buddha’s birthday, a South Korean DJ is in spotlight

Celebrating Buddha’s birthday, a South Korean DJ is in spotlight

A South Korean DJ named Youn Sung-ho, also known as DJ NewJeansNim, is blending electronic dance music with Buddhist teachings to attract younger audiences. At a recent festival celebrating Buddha’s birthday, he performed to a large crowd and was praised for promoting “young Buddhism.” Venerable Jinwoo, the head of the largest sect of Korean Buddhism, gifted him with prayer beads and encouraged him to continue spreading hope and happiness to young people.

Pitcher toss tradition ends in hospital visit

Pitcher toss tradition ends in hospital visit

The traditional custom of throwing clay pitchers, known as “Botides,” takes place on the morning of Holy Saturday in Corfu. Deputy Mayor Spyros Halikiopoulos accidentally hit a woman passing by with a pitcher, causing her to fall. She was taken to the hospital and received two stitches on her head, but luckily, there were no serious injuries reported.

Daily physical activity key to better sleep

Daily physical activity key to better sleep

Engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity throughout the day can significantly improve sleep quality, according to a recent study by researchers from the University of South Australia. The study monitored over 2,500 adults and children and found that those with higher levels of daily physical activity experienced better sleep quality and reduced fatigue. Lead researcher Dr. Lisa Matricciani emphasizes the importance of daily activities beyond bedtime routines for optimal sleep, suggesting that increasing physical activity during the day may be a relatively easy change for most people to adopt.

Chios keeps tradition alive with thundering Easter rocket war [VIDEO]

Chios keeps tradition alive with thundering Easter rocket war [VIDEO]

Vrontados in Chios held its annual Easter rocket war tradition, where rival teams launched thousands of rockets in a spectacular display for 20,000 spectators. Volunteers ensured the event ran smoothly, with the Fire Service putting out minor fires and police managing traffic. The tradition ends with the cleanup of spent rocket casings until the next rocket war in 2025.

Stairway to a longer life: study shows climbing stairs reduces risk of death

Stairway to a longer life: study shows climbing stairs reduces risk of death

A new study presented at a scientific conference emphasizes the importance of physical activity for longevity. Research shows that climbing stairs can significantly increase lifespan and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and premature death. Stair climbing was associated with a 24% reduced risk of death from any cause and a 39% lower likelihood of death from cardiovascular diseases. Experts recommend incorporating stair climbing into daily routines for overall health benefits. Other suggestions for adding more activity to your day include incorporating short bursts of speed into walks, on-the-spot jogging, and playing tag with children or pets. These activities not only benefit the heart but also work muscles, burn calories, and boost mood.

Skeletons missing hands and feet found in Hitler’s Wolf’s Lair

Skeletons missing hands and feet found in Hitler’s Wolf’s Lair

Five human skeletons with missing hands and feet were found at Hitler’s military headquarters in Poland, buried inside Goering’s villa. The bodies included three adults, a baby, and an older child. The discovery has raised questions about what may have happened there, with some speculating on occult rituals or other unknown reasons. The investigation is ongoing to determine the origin of the skeletons, which were found in a part of the building with a wooden floor. The Wolf’s Lair, where the headquarters were located, was destroyed by the Nazis in 1945. The site is now open to tourists, and the Goering villa has deteriorated over time.

African dust engulfs Athens [VIDEO]

African dust engulfs Athens [VIDEO]

A timelapse video released by meteo.gr/National Observatory of Athens shows how African dust turned the landscape orange in Athens on April 23rd and 24th. The phenomenon, known as “Minerva Red,” may occur again until mid-May. Professor Dimosthenis Sarigiannis warned of increased frequency of African dust due to climate change, which adds to existing particle pollution in urban centers like Athens. The National Health System needs to be prepared for acute cases resulting from such episodes.

Silia Kapsis heads to Malmö to represent Cyprus at Eurovision

Silia Kapsis heads to Malmö to represent Cyprus at Eurovision

Silia Kapsis, representing Cyprus in Eurovision, was seen at Athens airport on her way to Sweden. She will perform the song “Liar” composed by Dimitris Kontopoulos. Predictions place the song at 24th place in the competition.

Eurovision excitement drives increased travel to Malmo, reports eDreams

Eurovision excitement drives increased travel to Malmo, reports eDreams

Eurovision enthusiasm has caused a 176% increase in travel inquiries to Malmo, Sweden from September 2023 to April 2024. The contest is expected to draw 100,000 visitors to the city, with tourists from France being the most eager to attend. Travel searches for Copenhagen, located near Malmo, also increased by 34% during this period.

Dutch zoo creates coral ‘Noah’s Ark’ to preserve endangered reefs

Dutch zoo creates coral ‘Noah’s Ark’ to preserve endangered reefs

Divers at a Netherlands zoo are creating a “Noah’s Ark” of coral to preserve endangered species. The project aims to build reserve populations in aquaria to protect corals threatened by climate change, overfishing, and pollution. The slow growth rates of corals mean it will take years before they can be reintroduced to the wild. The zoo is working with other institutions on this conservation effort, hoping more zoos will join in.