Thursday Tapestry: Rest Guilt, Living to 100, Fake AI Photos, Real Art, and a little Humour
- Su-Yen Wong
- Jul 30
- 4 min read
This month, we’re slowing down - just enough to notice what really matters. From the guilt that sneaks in when we rest, to lessons from 100-year-olds, to spotting fakes in a digital world, it’s all about pausing, reflecting, and staying grounded. Plus, a little art, and a little GREEN humour, to round it out. Let's dive in!
Why Do We Feel Bad About Taking a Break?
You finally sit down to rest… and then the guilt creeps in. Sound familiar? That nagging voice whispering “you should be doing something” is a product of a culture that worships busyness. But rest isn’t a reward. It’s not something to “earn” after you’ve ticked off your to-do list. It’s a basic human need like food, water, and Wi-Fi. The article What Is Rest Guilt? explains why we struggle to unplug - and how to break free from that mindset. If your brain finds it hard to hit pause, this one’s for you.
Want to Live to 100? The Clues Might Surprise You
And speaking of pausing - it turns out the secret to a long, happy life isn’t hidden in a superfood or a supplement - but in how you live. In this CNBC article, 100-year-olds share what actually matters: staying active (physically and mentally), having a clear sense of purpose, and keeping good company. But here’s the fun part - many of them never retired. They just kept doing things they loved: gardening, mentoring, or learning something new. One even said they kept working part-time into their 90s - not because they had to, but because it gave them joy and structure. Their lives aren’t just long - they’re full. It’s a reminder that purpose isn’t something you age out of. And maybe the real longevity hack is this: move your body, feed your mind, and stay curious - no matter the number on your birthday cake.
Can You Tell If That Photo’s Real? Think Again.
Staying sharp matters in more ways than one. In his TED Talk How to Spot Fake AI Photos, digital forensics expert Hany Farid shows just how convincing AI-generated images have become - and how often we’re fooled. Fun fact: up to 50% of images you see online may be altered or AI-made. But there are clues. Fake photos often have warped reflections, mismatched vanishing points, or shadows that defy the laws of light. And sometimes, it’s the little things - like misshaped earrings or blurry fingers - that give them away. His biggest advice? Pause before sharing, sharpen your eye, and don’t take your feed at face value. Check out his full video for a fascinating deep dive into how to spot the fakes and protect yourself from falling for them - even if you think you already know how.
Celebrating 60 years of Singapore Through Art
From digital deception to tangible heritage. On a personal note, we collect the works of first‑ and second‑generation Singaporean artists - kampungs, shophouses, river life - because they preserve a slice of Singapore that’s fast disappearing. And we're honoured to be a part of The Private Museum's current exhibition - "The Art of Lee Boon Ngan: Celebrating 60 Years of Singapore through the Love of Chua Mia Tee & Lee Boon Ngan". At the opening, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong - the Guest‑of‑Honour - graciously paused for a quick wefie in front of one of the pieces we loaned to the exhibition. If you’re in town, do stop by - the exhibition runs till 21 September 2025, and admission is free. If you're not in Singapore, check out the images here.
A little Green humor
Because after all that... The grass is greener where the internet still works, right?
Wishing you fresh air, focused minds, and the freedom to unplug (even just a little). Until next time - may your battery stay full, and your coffee (or tea!) cup even fuller.
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