Panama Canal Dispute: How the Hormuz Crisis Escalates Superpower Tensions
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With disruption continuing in the Strait of Hormuz due to the Iran conflict, an alternative thousands of miles away has emerged: the Panama Canal, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
The United States has issued warnings about China’s growing influence over the Panama Canal, suggesting it could pose challenges to global trade and security.
Beijing denies these accusations, accusing Washington of using the canal as a pretext to expand its own dominance.
In the midst of tensions, Panama has reaffirmed its sovereignty over the canal and emphasized the necessity of keeping it permanently neutral.
What is the Panama Canal and how does it operate?
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The Panama Canal is an 80-kilometer-long artificial waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, cutting through the narrow Isthmus of Panama.
It significantly reduces the maritime journey and transport costs by avoiding the long trip around Cape Horn.
Transit fees for ships depend on their size, type, and cargo, and the canal uses a structure similar to Egypt’s Suez Canal.
The canal employs locks to lift ships up to Gatun Lake, above sea level, where they then proceed to the other side and descend back down. Each transit uses millions of gallons of water.
Due to the reliance on freshwater, drought poses a risk. A water shortage could restrict ship drafts, reducing canal capacity.
Why are vessel transits through the canal increasing?
The Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO), the world’s largest international shipping association, reports an 8% rise in ships transiting the Panama Canal, reaching 38 vessels daily by May 2026, nearing the canal’s full capacity.
BIMCO also indicated a 16% surge in traffic in the five weeks following the escalation of the Iran conflict.
The Strait of Hormuz tensions have disrupted oil trade, leading Asian buyers to increase crude oil and fuel purchases from suppliers along the US Gulf Coast.
Many of these cargo ships navigating the Atlantic-Pacific route choose the Panama Canal.
Growing traffic has created fierce competition for booking and transit priority, with some operators paying millions of dollars in auctions for transit slots.
Orlando J. Perez, a Political Science professor at the University of North Texas in Dallas, notes, “The Panama Canal is not the sole crucial choke point restricting major trade flows like Hormuz.” While it handles 5% of global maritime trade, it is responsible for about 40% of U.S. container shipping.
“If Hormuz is the energy choke point, the Panama Canal is a critical supply chain bottleneck for the economy. Both are significant.”
Image source, Getty Images
The canal is also facing increasing environmental challenges.
With surface water levels at Gatun Lake historically dropping, the Panama Canal Authority has had to impose restrictions. From September 15, the daily transit limit will reduce from 36 to 32 vessels.
Officials link this to broad climate phenomena like El Niño.
Analysts warn that further water shortages could lead to additional restrictions, adding pressure on global trade.
What is the history of the canal?
Built in the early 20th century, the canal remained under American control until 1977. The Torrijos-Carter Treaties signed during President Jimmy Carter’s administration established a timetable for Panama to assume control.
The handover was completed on December 31, 1999.
What are US concerns regarding China?
The dispute centers not so much on sovereignty but on dominance and influence.
Hong Kong-listed CK Hutchison controls the Balboa and Cristobal ports via its Panama Ports subsidiary.
Although Chinese companies currently do not operate the canal itself, U.S. officials express concern over Chinese-related waterways and infrastructure presence in the region.
Tensions heightened earlier this year after Panama’s Supreme Court declared unconstitutional a concession agreement with CK Hutchison.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated concerns about excessive Chinese influence, suggesting America might regain control over the canal. Panama, however, firmly rejected these claims.
How has China responded?
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Xian stated the accusations are entirely baseless and politically distorted.
Beijing reaffirmed its commitment to respect Panama’s sovereignty and the neutrality of the canal.
In August 2025, Chinese Ambassador Fu Song declared at the United Nations: “The false and unfounded claims by the U.S. are merely excuses to maintain control over the canal.”
The President of Panama described the canal’s neutrality and sovereignty as the single best protection against global threats.
Who instigated this dispute?
The canal dispute originates from the broader US-China rivalry that preceded the Middle East crisis.
Concerns over China’s investments, strategic infrastructure, and regional influence span not just Panama but across Latin America, growing for decades.
Analysts view this dispute as a regional conflict intensifying broader geopolitical rivalries.
Professor Josef Heinle, emeritus of the Institute of International Studies in Chile, commented: “The war in the Middle East and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have increased pressure on Panama, with US-China tensions flaring over this issue.”
Perez concurs, stating: “We have witnessed such scenarios twice already, whether in Hormuz or the Red Sea.”
“Strategic waterways often become stages for geopolitical competitors to contest influence.”
In Panama, Yemen, and the Gulf countries, small and medium-sized nations controlling these critical maritime choke points frequently find themselves embroiled in conflicts driven by larger powers.
US-Canada Trade War: Carney’s Dollar-for-Dollar Response to Trump’s 50% Tariffs
News Summary
Carney’s tough response with a dollar-for-dollar reply
- After final efforts to reach a trade agreement between the US and Canada failed, the US imposed a 50% tariff on about $20 billion worth of Canadian imports.
- Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a dollar-for-dollar retaliatory tariff starting September 8 in response to the US tariffs.
- Carney described the situation as a trade war, criticizing the US for making excessive demands but offering little in return during talks.
September 7, Kathmandu – The final attempt to reach a trade agreement between the United States and Canada has failed, escalating tensions between the two neighboring countries.
Following the breakdown in talks on Friday night, the US immediately imposed a new 50% tariff on approximately $20 billion worth of goods imported from Canada.
This tariff covers about 5% of total Canadian exports to the US. In response, Canada announced it will impose retaliatory tariffs starting September 8.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the nation on Saturday, declaring a dollar-for-dollar response to the tariffs imposed by the US.
Carney called the US tariffs a “major miscalculation,” accusing them of aiming to economically weaken and divide Canada.
He further stated that a “trade war” situation now exists between the two countries and criticized the US for demanding too much in negotiations while offering very little in exchange.
Carney said Canada will impose retaliatory tariffs on American products such as steel, electronics, dairy products, and household appliances.
The Canadian government also announced plans to introduce additional support measures for workers and businesses affected by the US tariffs. It noted that in the past 18 months, it has already provided approximately 25 billion Canadian dollars in assistance.
Which products face the 50% US tariff?
The new US tariffs apply to roughly $20 billion worth of Canadian imports, including liquor, dairy products, cement, clothing, hockey equipment, select electronics, and paper products.
However, key Canadian exports such as energy, potash, and fish were excluded from the new tariffs. Existing US tariffs on steel, aluminum, automobiles, and wood products remain unchanged.
Negotiations collapse at the last moment
Serious trade negotiations between the US and Canada have been ongoing for several weeks. On August 18, Carney expressed optimism about significant progress in talks. At that time, the US postponed the planned 50% tariffs until August 21.
However, the two sides failed to reach an agreement during the final phase.
Canada accused the US of imposing unfair and additional conditions in the final negotiation stages. Canadian officials claim that US proposals included restrictions on Canada’s ability to form new trade agreements with other countries and adverse provisions related to medium and heavy truck trade.
The US has defended its new tariffs by alleging that Canada discriminates against American products.
Severe blow to US-Canada trade relations
The US and Canada have long been close economic and political partners. Since Donald Trump’s administration began, tariff-related tensions between the two countries have steadily increased.
Since 2025, following US imposition of additional tariffs on steel, aluminum, automobiles, and other sectors, Canada has taken reciprocal measures.
The new 50% tariffs have further complicated bilateral trade relations. Analysts warn that if this dispute persists, it could adversely affect cross-border trade, industries, and consumer prices.
Carney emphasized Canada’s intention to reduce its dependence on the US and expand trade relations with other countries, noting that Canada has already advanced more than 20 new economic and security partnerships.
US President Donald Trump has not yet publicly responded to Carney’s recent statement following the failed negotiations.
There is currently no clear timeline for renewed trade talks between the US and Canada. Consequently, uncertainty has increased over the future direction of relations between these two major North American trade partners.
Real Madrid Secures Victorious Start in La Liga Season
Real Madrid kicked off the new La Liga season with a 2-1 victory over Espanyol on Sunday night. Jude Bellingham scored in the ninth minute, giving Real an early lead. Later, Alex Calatrava equalized in the 30th minute. As the match was heading towards a 1-1 draw, Carlos Espe scored the decisive goal in the 90th minute, securing three points for Real Madrid.
Kathmandu, September 23 – Real Madrid, under the management of José Mourinho, began the new La Liga season on a winning note. In the match held on Sunday night, Real Madrid defeated Espanyol 2-1. Jude Bellingham opened the scoring in the ninth minute to put Real ahead. However, Alex Calatrava leveled the score in the 30th minute, and the first half ended at 1-1. With the game seemingly headed for a draw, Carlos Espe netted a decisive goal in the 90th minute, clinching victory for Real Madrid. Meanwhile, Barcelona’s first match of the new La Liga season is yet to be played.
Magnitude 5.9 Earthquake Strikes Eastern Japan
KATHMANDU, September 23 – A magnitude 5.9 earthquake struck eastern Japan on Sunday morning, shaking areas including Tokyo, local media reported. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the earthquake occurred at a depth of 70 kilometers in the southern part of Ibaraki Prefecture. Meanwhile, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) measured the magnitude at 5.8.
The quake injured at least five people across Ibaraki, Chiba, and Saitama prefectures. Local authorities are still collecting information as more injuries are possible. The earthquake caused delays in some local train services, including the express train connecting Tokyo and Narita Airport; however, the Shinkansen bullet trains continued to operate normally.
The tremor also ruptured an underground water pipe in Tokyo’s Koto district and disrupted electricity supply to approximately 460 households. Power was restored by Sunday morning. Officials confirmed there is no tsunami threat and reported no abnormal conditions at Japan’s nuclear power plants.
Hull City Defeats Manchester United 2-0 in Premier League Opener
Newly promoted Hull City secured a victorious start to the English Premier League’s new season by defeating Manchester United 2-0. In the match held Saturday evening at their home ground, Hull City’s Semi Ajayi opened the scoring in the 17th minute, giving his team the lead. Later, in the 38th minute, Nobel Mendy doubled the lead with another goal. Manchester United failed to respond in the second half, allowing Hull City to claim all three points. Kathmandu, September 22.
Sikandar Raza Commits to Play for Chitwan Rhinos in Nepal Premier League
Zimbabwean all-rounder Sikandar Raza has confirmed that he will be playing for the Chitwan Rhinos in the third edition of the Nepal Premier League (NPL). Raza has featured in 133 T20 internationals, scoring 3,089 runs and taking 107 wickets, making him one of the few players to have surpassed both 3,000 runs and 100 wickets in this format. The third season of the NPL is scheduled to take place from Kartik 9 to Mangsir 5 in the Nepali calendar. Chitwan has retained seven players, including captain Kushal Malla.
Sikandar Raza showcased his talents in the Everest Premier League (EPL) in 2021 when he played for the Biratnagar Warriors. While part of the Biratnagar squad, captained by Paras Khadka, he delivered an outstanding innings against Chitwan Tigers, scoring 67 runs off 47 balls with seven sixes. Raza’s inclusion in the Chitwan Rhinos team is expected to add significant depth through his international experience and all-round capabilities.
Raza holds rare achievements in T20 international cricket. His batting average stands at 26.62 with a strike rate of 136.92, while his bowling average is 23.54 with an economy rate of 6.88. At the 2026 T20 World Cup, he was a standout performer, scoring 206 runs in six matches. Previously, the Chitwan Rhinos finished fourth in the inaugural NPL season, but in the second edition, they managed to win only two out of seven matches. For the upcoming season, the team is preparing to strengthen its lineup both with a solid base of domestic players and competitive foreign recruits.
Santoshi Shrestha Wins Bronze at World Athletics Continental Tour Silver 2026
Santoshi Shrestha of Nepal secured the bronze medal in the women’s 5000 meters at the World Athletics Continental Tour Silver 2026 held on Saturday in Bhubaneswar, India. She completed the distance in 17 minutes and 31.75 seconds to claim the podium finish. The gold medal went to Kenya’s Diana Wanjala, while India’s Bharti earned silver. Wanjala finished in 15 minutes 16.11 seconds, and Bharti completed the race in 15 minutes 46.45 seconds.
In October last year, Santoshi set a new national record at the South Asian Athletics Championship in Ranchi, clocking 16 minutes 36.61 seconds. Currently preparing for the upcoming 20th Asian Games in Japan, Santoshi made history by winning a medal at a World Athletics silver-level event. She holds national records in women’s athletics for the marathon, half marathon, 10,000 meters, 5,000 meters, and 1500 meters events.
Sombahadur Kumal Sets New National Record in 800m Race
At the World Athletics Continental Tour (Silver Level) 2026 held in India, Sombahadur Kumal set a new national record in the men’s 800-meter race by completing it in 1 minute 49.55 seconds. He broke his own previous national record of 1 minute 50.25 seconds, which he established at the 18th Asian Games in 2018, improving it by 0.70 seconds.
On 6th Bhadra in Kathmandu, Nepali runner Sombahadur Kumal shattered his own national record in the men’s 800-meter event. During the competition held as part of the World Athletics Continental Tour (Silver Level) 2026 in India, Kumal completed the distance in 1 minute 49.55 seconds, setting a new national benchmark. Kumal has held the national record in the 800 meters since 2018, when he clocked 1 minute 50.25 seconds at the 18th Asian Games. After eight years, he has improved his record by 0.70 seconds.
Apple Lays Off Hundreds from Siri and Vision Pro Teams Amid Structural Shift
Apple has laid off more than 200 employees from its Siri, Vision Pro, and Intelligent Systems Experience teams as part of a structural reorganization aimed at focusing on new AI initiatives and upcoming devices. The company cited the need to redirect resources towards these priorities.
According to Bloomberg, the layoffs include staff working on the Vision Pro VR headset, Siri, and Intelligent Systems Experience teams, totaling over 200 affected employees. The move comes as Apple faces growing financial pressures from rising AI development and production costs. Reportedly, these economic challenges have also led Apple to increase the prices of its Mac and iPad products.
TechCrunch notes that alongside the layoffs and price hikes, Apple has unveiled new plans to lease its products, potentially aiming to bolster sales amid the changing market landscape driven by increased AI investment.
Eighth SG Inter-School Senior Futsal Tournament Kicks Off
The eighth SG Inter-School Senior Futsal Tournament, organized by Swastishree Gurukul IB Continuum School, commenced in Kathmandu from Saturday, 2066 BS. The competition, which will run for four days, features 45 teams from 25 schools competing across the U-11 boys, U-12 boys, U-14 boys, and U-11 girls categories.
In the opening match, the host Swastishree Gurukul secured a successful start by defeating Rosebud School 2–1. Sabita Rana Magar, a player from the Nepal Women’s National Football Team, attended as the chief guest at the inauguration ceremony. Former national player and APF’s head coach, Jivesh Kumar Pandey, was also present as a special guest.
The tournament’s inauguration was marked by Swastishree Gurukul Managing Director Mina Maharjan handing over the match ball to the referee. Other schools participating in the competition include Rato Bangala, Pathshala Nepal, Xavier International, James, Kastamandap, Rai School, Galaxy School, and Himshikhar School.
Sabita Rana Magar highlighted that such school-level competitions provide young players with opportunities to engage in competitive football, strengthening the future of Nepali football. The tournament is scheduled to conclude next Tuesday.
Nepal Secures Gold and Bronze Medals at the 11th World Hapkido Championship
Nepal achieved significant success at the 11th World Hapkido Championship 2026 held in South Korea, winning one gold and one bronze medal. In the fight Kyorugi category, Deepak Chhantyal claimed the gold medal in the men’s 80–84 kg weight division by defeating competitors from Germany, South Korea, and Brazil. Meanwhile, Megma Gurung secured a bronze medal in the women’s 48–52 kg weight division after overcoming players from the UK and South Korea, but she was defeated in the semifinals by a competitor from Thailand.
Deepak Chhantyal won three consecutive rounds on his way to gold. He defeated the German athlete in the first round, overcame the South Korean host nation competitor in the semifinals, and triumphed over the Brazilian in the final match to earn the world champion title. Similarly, Megma Gurung advanced to the semifinals after victories against the UK and South Korean opponents, but her journey ended in the semifinals against the Thai athlete, resulting in a bronze medal finish.
With Deepak’s gold and Megma’s bronze medal, Nepal secured two medals in the competition. Indrabahadur Mahar, Secretary General of the Nepal Hapkido Association, stated that this achievement further strengthens Nepal’s recognition in the international Hapkido community.
Risk-Taking Psychology: Would You Choose $50,000 Immediately or Gamble for $1 Million?
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If you were offered an instant $50,000 or a 50% chance to win $1 million, which would you choose?
An international research and statistics organization recently asked this question to 4,600 adults in the UK.
What were the results?
Nearly three-quarters, or 73%, opted for the immediate $50,000.
About 21% chose to gamble with the chance to win $1 million, while 6% were undecided.
Women were more likely to avoid risk; 82% of women picked the guaranteed $50,000 compared to 63% of men.
The survey was initially conducted only in the UK and sparked extensive debate on social media.
“The UK may be the most risk-averse society in the world,” one comment stated. Another said, “This is the problem with the UK!”
But is this perception accurate? Are British citizens and those who choose the first option truly people who fear risk?
The Appeal of Certainty
Image source, Getty Images
BBC economics editor Faisal Islam explains that this choice cannot be evaluated solely through probabilities and highlights practical theories in economics.
“Those who opt to gamble think of themselves as clever, but rejecting $50,000 contradicts a fundamental economic rule called ‘irrational decision theory.'”
He points out that our brains do not calculate only expected values of probabilities and outcomes; instead, we base decisions on emotional and personal values.
Islam references 18th-century Swiss mathematician Daniel Bernoulli’s theory to explain this.
Bernoulli’s concept states that economic evaluation is not entirely mathematical.
In essence, the real value and personal significance of money differ for each individual.
Image source, Getty Images
Bernoulli developed the concept of marginal utility, where satisfaction gained from additional goods decreases progressively.
To illustrate:
- Receiving $50,000 from zero drastically impacts your life.
- Moving from $50,000 to $100,000 may not increase satisfaction proportionally.
- The difference between $950,000 and $1 million feels minimal.
In this context, the guaranteed $50,000 is especially appealing to many Britons given the current economic conditions.
This amount exceeds the annual average salary of many full-time workers in the UK.
Another crucial reason for selecting the secure $50,000 is the ‘Prospect Theory.’
Fear of Loss
In 1979, Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky introduced the Prospect Theory, which forms the foundation of behavioral economics.
Their controlled experiments revealed compelling insights into how people evaluate risk and reward.
Image source, Getty Images
The findings showed that people overweight small probabilities and underweight moderate-to-large probabilities.
They assess money and risk relative to a personal reference point.
For example, if you lost $10 to a friend in a bet, you might be willing to bet another $10 to recover the loss—but you would not be willing to bet $20 at the start.
Essentially, your thinking is based on your personal context rather than objective factors.
The study substantiates the common saying: “Losses loom larger than gains.”
The dissatisfaction experienced from losing money is greater than the satisfaction of gaining an equivalent amount. People are willing to pay a high price to avoid losing their possessions.
Choosing the chance to win $1 million but failing may feel like losing the guaranteed $50,000.
For many, $50,000 is a significant sum. In the UK, only 25% of people have $50,000 or more in cash excluding their home and pension, while 25% have less than $300 in liquid assets.
Young adults aged 18–24 appeared more willing to take risks compared to other age groups.
Only 11% of those over 65 were willing to take risks, compared to 28% of the 18–24 age group.
Online discussions indicated that gender, age, and cultural background might influence risk-taking decisions.
Some Americans suggested that they are more willing to take risks compared to foreigners.
When the same question was asked in the United States, the results were similar to those in the UK.
This article is based on the BBC’s ‘More or Less’ series.
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Nepal Suffers Second Consecutive Defeat in Top End T20 Series
Nepal A team faced their second consecutive defeat against the Bangladesh High Performance team in the ongoing Top End T20 series in Australia. Bangladesh comfortably chased down the target of 100 runs in 10.2 overs, losing just one wicket. Jishan Alam scored an unbeaten 52 runs. Nepal managed 99 runs for 9 wickets in their 20 overs, with Kushal Bhurtel top-scoring with 46 runs. Kathmandu, 6 Bhadra.
In the Top End T20 series taking place in Australia, Nepal experienced their second straight loss. In the match on Saturday, Nepal A lost to the Bangladesh High Performance side. Bangladesh successfully chased the modest target of 100 runs in 10.2 overs while losing only one wicket. Jishan Alam played an aggressive innings, scoring an unbeaten 52 runs off 29 balls. Ariful Islam added an unbeaten 34 runs. Shahab Alam took one wicket for Nepal.
Batting first, Nepal managed only 99 runs for 9 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Kushal Bhurtel contributed the highest score with 46 runs, while Bipin Khatri remained unbeaten on 11 and Rijan Dhakal scored 10 runs. Nepal found themselves in a precarious position at one point, scoring 13 for 5 wickets in 4 overs. Kushal Bhurtel provided some much-needed stability amidst the collapse. In their opening game on Friday, Nepal was also defeated by NT Strike. Nepal’s third match will be against Hobart Hurricanes Academy on Monday.
Affordable and Easily Adoptable Healthy Habits for Immediate Wellbeing
Image Source, Anastasiia Mirraslavska
The term ‘wellness’ has become trending recently and is often linked to significant expenses.
Luxury ‘spa’ treatments, floating sound baths at five-star hotels, or exclusive retreats might be enjoyable—if one can afford them.
For those unable to bear such costs, health experts, entrepreneurs, and influencers recommend some simple, low-cost or no-cost ways to keep body and mind healthy.
Participate in Programs Focused on Healthy Lifestyles
Membership to fitness classes can be expensive, but many organizers now offer free or low-cost sessions. Such programs are often found via local groups on social media or platforms like Meetup.
For example, yoga instructor Anastasiia Mirraslavska organizes a ‘Sunday Reset’ Meetup in London where participants meet monthly in various city parks for yoga and meditation. They also offer sessions via Zoom. Some sessions charge around two thousand Nepali rupees, while others are free.
“I wanted people to experience yoga and meditation in simple and easy ways,” she explained.
Model Erica Correa has launched a regular meetup in Liverpool called ‘Safety Sunday,’ where participants engage in specially curated wellness programs.
The latest session included Pilates and beauty-related activities. Pilates involves light exercises focusing on posture and breathing.
“At ‘Safety Sunday’ the emphasis is on purpose rather than expense,” she stated. “A healthy lifestyle means prioritizing life choices and protecting your time.”
Currently, these programs are invitation-only, but Correa hopes to open them to more people soon.
Start Gardening—Even If You Don’t Have Your Own Garden
Gardening benefits physical and mental health and doesn’t require large investments.
Research by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) shows that daily gardeners experience greater mental satisfaction and lower stress levels.
If you lack a personal garden, community gardens are an option. Many rely on volunteers and offer free access along with tools. These also provide opportunities to meet new people and learn new skills.
Image Source, Thrive
According to the charity ‘Thrive,’ community gardens are not just places to grow plants.
They offer opportunities to “work in the garden and connect with a friendly social group,” said Damian Newman, Thrive’s Training, Education, and Consultancy Manager.
“This positively impacts our health in physical, cognitive, social, psychological, and emotional domains,” he added.
Embrace a Traditional Hobby or Craft
People are rediscovering old hobbies for physical and mental wellness, ranging from bird watching to knitting.
Visiting local parks for bird watching requires minimal expenses beyond transportation. Such groups are easily found online.
Studies reveal that just 30 minutes of bird watching can increase happiness and improve mental and emotional well-being by fostering a deeper connection with nature.
Knitting is gaining popularity again and requires minimal initial investment—just needles and a ball of wool are needed.
Research links knitting with improvements in mental and emotional health; people report it helps cope with stress, grief, chronic illness, and other life challenges.
Engage in Outdoor Physical Activity
You don’t need a gym membership to exercise. Calisthenics—bodyweight exercises such as push-ups, squats, and pull-ups—can be done at home or in parks with little to no cost, helping build strength, flexibility, and coordination.
Running is becoming increasingly popular as a fitness activity.
Find Calm Through Online Sound Bath Sessions
Sound baths have gained popularity.
In these, instructors play vibrating instruments like crystal or Tibetan sound bowls, gongs, and bells melodiously to calm the mind, relax the body, and induce meditative states.
However, live sessions can be expensive and may not be readily accessible everywhere.
Image Source, Getty Images
A cost-effective alternative is to search for sound bath recordings on YouTube and Spotify, enabling relaxation at home. Some meditation apps also offer these sounds, although some require subscription fees.
Liz Cooper, founder of the British Academy of Sound Therapy, told the BBC that online recordings vary in quality but many good recordings are available. She recommends choosing recordings from experienced instructors or reputable organizations.
“If you wear noise-isolating headphones, close your eyes, lie down comfortably in a quiet, undisturbed place to listen, the therapeutic benefits can be very effective,” she said.
“Ultimately, the most important thing is finding a method that feels comfortable and that you can practice regularly.”
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Canada Responds as Trump Imposes 50% Tariffs on Canadian Imports
Summary: Trade negotiations between the United States and Canada in Washington, D.C., spanning three days, ended without an agreement. Following this failure, President Donald Trump imposed a 50% tariff on $20 billion worth of Canadian imports starting at midnight Saturday. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that Canada will reciprocate with equivalent tariffs.
Kathmandu, September 22 – The three-day trade talks between the United States and Canada concluded unsuccessfully. Shortly after, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 50% tariff on Canadian goods valued at $20 billion effective from midnight Saturday. This new tariff targets approximately 5% of the total goods exported from Canada to the U.S.
Despite extensive discussions in Washington, the officials from both countries were unable to finalize an agreement. Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney warned that Canada would respond symmetrically to the U.S. tariff imposition.
U.S. Perspective: Better Deal Offered, Canada Missed the Chance
The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) noted on social media that no trade deal was reached and that Canada missed an important opportunity for partnership. According to USTR, the U.S. offered Canada terms better than those extended to any other major export country; however, negotiations failed due to Canada’s new demands and backtracking from prior commitments.
USTR added that a deal would have included benefits such as aerospace supply chain coordination, measures against unfair trade practices, cooperation on minerals, and the implementation of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) commitments.
Why Impose Such High Tariffs?
The U.S. government claims that certain Canadian trade policies harm American companies. The two countries have long-standing disputes on issues including automobiles, dairy products, alcohol, and lumber trade.
The U.S. had initially planned to implement the tariffs on November 3 but extended the deadline by three days in hopes of reaching a deal. Officials confirmed that while there was agreement on many issues, some critical disagreements prevented final consensus.
- Allegations of Discrimination Against U.S. Automobiles
The U.S. has complained for years that Canadian trade policies do not provide a level playing field for American car manufacturers in Canada. The U.S. demands greater market access and tariff relief on steel, aluminum, automobiles, and lumber imposed by Canada, but Washington is unwilling to concede on these points. - Protection of Canada’s Dairy Market
Canada maintains strict regulations protecting its dairy industry from foreign and cheaper dairy imports. The U.S. seeks easier entry for its milk, cheese, and other dairy products into the Canadian market, but Canada is reluctant to offer concessions in this sector, creating another sticking point. - Restriction on U.S. Alcohol Sales
Some regions within Canada prohibit the sale of American alcoholic beverages, which the U.S. perceives as discriminatory. The U.S. demands less restrictive access to Canadian markets for its alcoholic products. Furthermore, long-running conflicts over Canadian softwood lumber exports involve U.S.-imposed trade restrictions and tariffs.
Canada Retaliates with Equivalent Tariffs
In reaction to the United States’ 50% tariff, Canada announced equivalent retaliatory tariffs. Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed that Canada’s response will match the tariff rates imposed by the U.S., thereby escalating trade tensions between the two close commercial partners. These tariff increases are expected to impact trade volumes and consumer prices in both countries.
(With contributions from agency reports)