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“Today we suffer from the success of having “conquered” nature,” says Ashim Sharma, a mental health counselor who specializes in trauma, somatic experiencing, and drug rehabilitation. He

reflects on the increasing disconnection between humans and nature and its direct impact on our mental well-being which can be traced back to a biological/evolutionary level. 

Research has shown that exposure to nature reduces stress by activating the parasympathetic nervous system because of people’s innate connection to nature. In other words, we move from a fight-flight response (which alerts us to danger) to a rest-digest response (which decreases our heart rate, blood pressure, and stress levels). 

Spending time in nature also impacts our thoughts and emotions and creates the feeling we get when we take a walk around the neighborhood “to clear our head”. This was supported by a functional neuroimaging study that found decreased blood flow in the prefrontal cortex (the part of the brain responsible for complex thought) which correlated with decreased “rumination” (repetitive thinking or dwelling on negative feelings) after a 90-minute nature walk compared with an urban area walk. 

When it comes to the relationship between nature and mental health, the concept of nature exposure has been prioritized as seen in the studies mentioned above. However, the concept of “nature connectedness” has surfaced in research in recent years. Nature connectedness is a psychological construct that measures individuals’ subjective sense of connection to nature and has been found to be stronger than nature exposure in predicting mental well-being.  It has been found to influence the relationship between mental health and natural exposure itself. 

This means we can not only reap the benefits by pausing to experience nature with our senses but also by reflecting and remembering the experiences through our preferred medium of expression whether it be poetry or painting. And through it feeling an increasing connection to nature.

This essence of nature connectedness is reflected through initiatives such as PsychHike by My Quest Foundation, where participants are led by a counselor/psychologist for a short hike. Throughout their journey, they receive basic psychoeducation while being simultaneously encouraged to connect with various natural elements.

Anjal Bhatta, a counseling psychologist/trainer who has been serving as the lead coach for PsychHike since 2013, shares his experience “During the hike, with each step there is movement, and with it is an opportunity to connect.” He asserts that the natural elements act as support for people to express and reflect on themselves, something your conventional workshop that is limited to four walls might not be able to provide you with.” 

To those used to the conventional approach, the hike can be quite challenging, however he reports feeling quite rewarded after seeing them overcome it. 

The countless benefits of nature-based experiences have been explored through research in environmental psychology, which has revealed that such experiences have a positive impact on attention, mood, self-regulation, and stress. It is also seen to increase generosity, cooperation, and our sense of social connection. 

Bidhan Parajuli, a sound healer and counseling psychologist who has been an active participant/ assistant coach during PsychHike from My Quest Foundation expresses feeling healing on a spiritual level, the feeling of being one with nature while also being able to reflect on personal development “I feel like my thinking and feeling patterns change every time I go.”

Small things such as spending time at community parks, pausing to notice the small things in nature such as adding plants to indoor spaces, paying attention to our five senses, or even watching videos of nature if we are unable to go outside. 

Neha Adhikari, a yoga instructor, and psychosocial counselor, shares about how the balance of five elements, air, water, space, earth, and fire are directly related to our mental well-being and how we can access them through simple daily acts such as going to our rooftops and practicing mindfulness about the sun/moon and the air and the fact that a simple shower can help balance our need for water element.

“I go to my terrace to relieve my headache after a long way of working indoors. I feel the air, space around me, sunlight if it is daytime or moonlight if it is night.”

As with other health-related activities, it is important to schedule time for this. The deep biological, psychological, and spiritual benefits of exploring our connection with nature can profoundly impact our overall well-being. It might be challenging to prioritize something so quietly existing around us, especially considering the vast amount of information fighting for our attention all throughout the day whether it be at work or at rest. However, it can be as easy as setting out for a few minutes to notice the trees or birds on your way to work or limiting your screen time during rest to go outside and notice the air and space around us sipping our favorite hot beverage. And soon we might start noticing the impact on our attention, mood, and stress levels.

As we age, our brain function declines. This is one of the reasons why old people aren’t as sharp as young ones. But it’s not something that is inevitable. With the right approach, you can train your brain to function at its best throughout your life. Your brain has the capacity to learn and grow even as you age, but you have to take care of it. Studies have shown that those who keep learning new skills or taking up challenging tasks have better cognition and don’t suffer from memory lapses as they age. But the earlier you start, the better. Here are some things you can consider if you want to boost memory, focus, and concentration.

Build your vocabulary

A good vocabulary is always a plus point. You will appear smarter and be more confident. But it also has another benefit that you don’t want to miss out on. Learning new words can be a stimulating brain game. Research shows that main areas of the brain are involved in tasks that involve vocabulary, particularly those that are important for visual and auditory processing. To start with, learn a new word or two every day and try to use those words in your conversations for the next few days. You can also make a list of words as you learn them—maintain a separate document or notebook for it—and come back to it to quiz yourself as your vocabulary expands.

Solve the Rubik’s cube 

Most of us have this fun thing at home but not all of us can actually solve it. Learning to solve the Rubik’s cube can be highly stimulating and it’s a skill that will make you feel smarter while working your brain muscles. There are many YouTube tutorials that can teach you how to try and solve the cube but each is different and you will really have to work your brain muscles. It will take time for you to learn this skill and you will also need to practice it to master it. The good thing is you can carry a Rubilk’s cube with you and practice whenever you have some time. Once you know how to solve it, you can challenge yourself to finish it within five minutes or less.

Do a jigsaw puzzle

Jigsaw puzzles are fun. It’s also a great way to exercise your brain muscles. These days, you not only get a 100 piece puzzle like you used to earlier but there are many 500 or a 1000 piece puzzles in the market as well so there is really no limit to just how intensive and immersive doing a jigsaw can be. Looking at different pieces and trying to figure out where they fit in the larger picture recruits multiple cognitive abilities. It can also be a meditative practice, calming and nurturing your brain. This is also a fun activity to do with family or friends. We suggest you start with a simple one consisting of 100 or less pieces and then try more complex ones. You can also create your own puzzles by printing a photo or picture you really like and cutting that into little pieces.

Learn a new language

Multiple studies have shown the overwhelming benefits of being able to speak in two or more languages. It’s believed to delay the onset of age related mental decline while also improving memory, creativity, and visual-spatial skills. Learning and using multiple languages in your day to day life is shown to be good for your cognitive reserve, which is your brain’s ability to compensate for damage caused by injury or diseases. It also strengthens neural connections, thus facilitating learning and information retention. If you don’t want to join a physical class, there are many online courses available as well. Alternatively, language learning apps or YouTube tutorials can be great tools if you are undecided about which language to learn.

Listen to or play music

Studies have shown that music has powerful effects on the brain. From stress reduction to sleep quality improvement, music has far reaching impacts. Music can improve memory and concentration by stimulating brain areas involved in learning and information recall. Music is structural and mathematical with one note connecting to the next. You might not be aware of it but your brain actually does a lot of work to make sense of it. Experts suggest listening to different kinds of music to reap its myriad benefits. Often, we listen to the same kind of music as we did when we were in our teens but unfamiliar music forces our brain to restructure itself.

Do things differently

We are creatures of habit and our days follow more or less the same pattern. While routine and discipline are essential for a good life, doing the same thing over and over again can limit mental growth. Try tweaking things up by changing your morning routine, taking a different route to work, or changing the kind of content you watch on the internet. If you are used to doing a certain thing in a particular way, see if you can do it some other way. The idea is not to be stuck in a rut. Your brain will benefit from simple changes and experts say that you will be surprised by how change can promote critical and creative thinking as well. 

The International Day of Education, celebrated on January 24, is a day dedicated to recognizing the fundamental role education plays in empowering individuals, transforming societies, and driving sustainable change across the globe. As we mark this important occasion, it’s essential to reflect on the challenges and opportunities that exist within education systems worldwide. ApEx spoke to three educators to explore the multifaceted role education plays in shaping our future and to discuss how we can collectively work towards a more inclusive and accessible education system.

Asif Maharjan, 18

Grade six tutor

The internet and AI have made research and access to information far easier than ever before. Despite the advancements, the education sector faces numerous challenges. Children are heavily dependent on the internet, mobile devices, and AI which have noticeably impacted their creativity. I’ve observed that students often depend on teachers even for simple solutions. To change that, I think it’s a good idea to introduce enjoyable activities alongside academics so that students can develop a love for learning while also acquiring new skills. To enhance critical thinking, students must participate in creative and problem-solving activities that stimulate both their curiosity and their ability to think independently. This approach will help students develop a well-rounded perspective on the world.

Anuska Lama, 23

Primary school teacher

Education today transcends mere knowledge acquisition, focusing on critical thinking, creativity, and holistic development. Many institutions embrace the 4H approach: Head (knowledge), Heart (behavior), Hand (skills), and Health (physical and mental well-being). This approach fosters inclusivity, digital proficiency, and adaptability in diverse environments. In Nepal, limited resources, undertrained teachers, language barriers, and political interference hinder progress, especially in rural areas. To address these, I think we must focus on creating safe and inclusive learning spaces. Diverse teaching materials, group activities, and tailored feedback help students thrive academically and socially. Promoting grit involves setting achievable goals, fostering a growth mindset, and celebrating progress. 

Rajan Phelu, 37

College teacher

Knowledge is no longer restricted to traditional classrooms with the growth of the internet and digital platforms. People are using virtual classrooms, online learning platforms, and educational apps particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Access to high-quality education is still unequal worldwide, despite the fact that digital platforms are making education more widely available. There are significant obstacles for many marginalized groups, low-income families, people living in rural areas, and children with disabilities. Inclusive education is key to addressing diverse learning needs. Varied instructional methods, such as project-based assessments, group discussions, and practical exercises, ensure meaningful participation for all students. Teachers can foster engagement by integrating real-world problem-solving, design thinking, and student-led learning.

Neo-fascism, a modern revival of authoritarian ideologies characterized by nationalism, anti-liberalism, and the erosion of democratic norms, is increasingly shaping global politics. Once associated with the authoritarian regimes of the early 20th century, such as Benito Mussolini’s Italy, neo-fascism is now emerging in various parts of the world, including Nepal. Despite its democratic framework, Nepal is witnessing the rise of neo-fascist elements within its political parties and leaders, threatening core democratic principles and minority rights.

While South Asia has had limited direct exposure to European fascism, authoritarianism, nationalism, and militarism have manifested regionally in troubling ways. Countries like India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal exhibit patterns resembling neo-fascism, challenging democratic norms and inclusivity. In Nepal, both old and emerging political parties and their leaders are adopting tactics and ideologies reminiscent of fascism, undermining the nation's democratic ethos.

Nepal, with its fragile democracy and history of political instability, provides fertile ground for the rise of neo-fascist tendencies. Political parties—both traditional and new—have displayed authoritarian traits, employed exclusive nationalist rhetoric, and sought to centralize power at the expense of democratic institutions and minority rights.

A remnant of the bygone royal regime, Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) embodies a yearning for monarchical centralization. The RPP often calls for the restoration of a Hindu state, promoting exclusionary nationalism that marginalizes Nepal’s religious and cultural diversity. Its leaders glorify the monarchy as a symbol of unity and stability, reminiscent of fascist ideals of a strong, centralized authority. The party’s resistance to federalism and advocacy for a unitary state align with neo-fascist tendencies of eroding regional autonomy.

The Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre), under the leadership of Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda), has also exhibited authoritarian characteristics. During the decade-long insurgency, the Maoists relied on militarization and the glorification of Prachanda’s leadership, fostering a cult of personality that echoes Mussolini’s tactics. Even in the post-insurgency period, the party’s hierarchical structure and intolerance for dissent within its ranks reveal authoritarian tendencies. The party's leaders have used populist rhetoric to consolidate power while sidelining opposition voices, undermining democratic discourse.

In recent years, concerns have grown over the influence of neo-fascism within Madhes-based political parties in Nepal. These parties, which represent the Madhesi community, have historically advocated for marginalized groups’ rights and greater autonomy. However, some factions are increasingly adopting ultra- regionalist, authoritarian ideologies, characterized by aggressive regionalism, ethnic superiority, and exclusionary politics. This shift threatens the inclusive federalism enshrined in Nepal's constitution, raising fears about undermining democratic values and political pluralism. As these parties navigate their identity and power, it is crucial for Nepal to ensure that democratic principles and federalism are upheld amidst rising nationalist pressures.

Emerging political figures like Rabi Lamichhane and his Rastriya Swatantra Party (RSP) have capitalized on populist and nationalist sentiments. Lamichhane’s rhetoric often targets foreign influence, invoking fears of national sovereignty being undermined. While this approach garners public support, it risks fostering xenophobia and scapegoating minorities, particularly the Madhesi and indigenous communities. This exclusive nationalism, combined with Lamichhane’s attempts to position himself as a strong leader, reflects neo-fascist tendencies.

Even mainstream parties like the Nepali Congress (NC) and the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) are not exempt from neo-fascist tendencies. Leaders like KP Sharma Oli of the UML have frequently used divisive nationalism to strengthen their hold on power. During his multiple terms as prime minister, Oli oversaw a growing centralization of authority, efforts to undermine parliamentary processes, and the sidelining of provincial governments. His frequent use of national security threats to justify his policies echoes neo-fascist tactics of consolidating power through fear and division.

Neo-fascism in Nepal often manifests in exclusive nationalist rhetoric that sidelines ethnic, linguistic, and religious minorities. Political parties frame federalism and decentralization as threats to national unity, undermining the representation and autonomy of Madhesi, Dalit, and indigenous communities. The opposition to inclusive policies fosters a narrow vision of national identity, eroding Nepal’s rich multicultural heritage.

The suppression of dissent is another hallmark of fascism evident in Nepal. Successive governments have restricted media freedom, targeted journalists and activists, and leveraged cyber laws to curb online expression. These actions echo tactics used by neo-fascist regimes globally to silence opposition and control public discourse. The increased surveillance of civil society groups and restrictions on peaceful protests further signal a drift toward authoritarianism.

Nepal’s political leaders frequently invoke national security concerns to justify expanding military and police powers. For example, the government’s decision to militarize border areas under the pretext of protecting sovereignty has been criticized as overreach. Similarly, the increased reliance on security forces to manage civil unrest fosters a climate of fear and normalizes authoritarian measures.

Social media has become a powerful tool for spreading nationalist rhetoric and neo-fascist ideologies in Nepal. The widespread use and abuse of platforms have fueled the rise of figures like Kathmandu Mayor Balendra Saha and RSP leader Lamichhane. Political leaders and parties leverage platforms such as Facebook and Twitter to amplify ultra-nationalist messages, frequently targeting minorities and critics. The swift spread of misinformation and polarizing content divides society, providing fertile ground for neo-fascist ideas to flourish.

The rise of neo-fascism in Nepal threatens its democratic framework, inclusivity, and civil liberties. Continued erosion of democratic institutions, suppression of dissent, and centralization of power could undermine Nepal’s progress toward becoming a stable, pluralistic society.

Moreover, Nepal’s geopolitical position between India and China makes rising nationalism particularly risky. Anti-foreign rhetoric could strain diplomatic relations, disrupt trade, and hinder regional cooperation.

As Bertrand Russell warned, fascism thrives in times of unrest, using propaganda and nationalism to scapegoat minorities and consolidate power. Nepal’s path forward requires vigilance, an informed citizenry, and a robust civil society. Political parties must commit to democratic norms, promote inclusivity, and resist the temptation to exploit nationalist sentiments for short-term gains.

Strengthening democratic institutions, ensuring media freedom, and fostering interethnic dialogue are critical to countering neo-fascist tendencies. Nepal must safeguard its democratic achievements and uphold the values of pluralism, equity, and justice for all its people.