Sunday yellow #theme_pic_India_flower

@MaryTilesTexas From France: What began as student protests over the deterioration of our education system has escalated into nationwide riots. And the grievances are real. France faces declining academic standards, teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms and disappointing PISA results. Another sensitive issue is language proficiency: some pupils enter the school system with limited French, particularly when another language is spoken at home. This creates additional challenges for teachers and pupils alike, especially where adequate language support is lacking. But the protests have taken a very different turn. Authorities now point to two overlapping phenomena: organised far-left extremist groups, including Antifa networks, allegedly seeking political confrontation, and opportunistic rioters exploiting the disorder to loot shops, vandalise buildings and attack police officers. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has explicitly rejected comparisons with the Yellow Vests, warning that far-left militants may be using the violence as a political “dress rehearsal” ahead of the 2027 presidential election. He has also raised questions about the relationship between violent far-left organisations and La France Insoumise. The essential distinction is between students demanding a better education and those using the protests as an opportunity for political violence or criminal activity. France's educational crisis deserves serious scrutiny. So does the organisation of the violence now overshadowing it.

World Menopause Day: Why Do You Keep Waking Up at 3 AM During Perimenopause? Falling asleep is fine. Staying asleep is the problem. You wake up around 3 AM, your heart is beating faster, and suddenly your mind is racing. During perimenopause, hormonal changes may be one reason your sleep is disrupted. Here’s what may help. 7 WAYS TO SUPPORT BETTER SLEEP 1. Eat a balanced dinner with carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats and fibre. Try dal khichdi with palak, rajma with rice, roti with paneer sabzi, or oats cooked in milk with nuts and seeds. 2. Choose a calming bedtime drink. Chamomile tea is caffeine-free. Warm jeera water is another option. 3. Avoid heavy meals just before bed. If you're hungry later, try Greek yogurt with almonds. 4. Include magnesium-rich foods such as palak, pumpkin seeds and almonds. 5. Limit late-day caffeine, especially if it affects your sleep. 6. Avoid alcohol before bed. It can disrupt sleep later in the night and worsen night sweats. 7. Stay hydrated during the day and avoid drinking large amounts of water just before bed. BEYOND FOOD • Keep your bedroom cool and use breathable bedding. • Try gentle stretching, slow breathing or reading before bed. • Maintain a consistent sleep routine. Remember, waking up at 3 AM isn't always caused by hormones. Perimenopause can affect sleep, but stress, sleep disorders, medications and other health conditions may also contribute. If disrupted sleep persists, especially with palpitations or significant daytime fatigue, consult a healthcare professional. This World Menopause Day, let's talk about sleep changes during perimenopause and how women can get the support they need. [World Menopause Day, perimenopause, menopause, sleep problems, women's health, night sweats, sleep hygiene, hormonal changes]