Sports.
"Sport has the power to change the world." — Nelson Mandela
Sports were never really part of the plan. Back in Kolkata, it was casual badminton and swimming to survive the heat. Moving to Switzerland, away from family and friends, meant finding ways to stay busy, and sports filled that gap well. Geneva changed things. A close friend kept insisting I try tennis, and after enough pestering, I gave in. It stuck. Geneva is also where I started hiking and skiing, both of which came naturally once you're surrounded by mountains and snow. Zürich added the gym, which has become the most consistent part of my routine outside of the PhD itself. An hour there usually means a more productive afternoon at the desk.
Tennis
A close friend in Geneva kept insisting I try tennis, and after enough pestering, I finally showed up to a court. It quickly became the sport I look forward to most. I'm still very much learning, but I enjoy the rhythm of a rally and try to play at least once a week when the weather cooperates.
Skiing
Living in Switzerland and not skiing felt like a missed opportunity, so I gave it a shot during my time in Geneva. I'm firmly in the 'pizza over parallel' stage, but I'm improving. The falls are frequent, but the views from the slopes make up for it. Getting comfortable on blue runs is the current goal; black runs are a conversation for another year.
Hiking
Switzerland has an almost unfair number of good hiking trails. You take a short train ride, walk for a couple of hours, and suddenly you're looking at a lake you didn't know existed or a valley that doesn't look real. Oeschinen Lake and the Rigi are two favourites so far, and there's a long list of trails I haven't gotten to yet. Most of my hikes end at a restaurant, if I'm being honest.
Swimming & Scuba
Swimming has always been more of a leisure activity for me than a competitive one. I find it relaxing in a way that most sports aren't. I'd love to get my open water scuba diving certification sometime soon, somewhere warm with clear water and coral reefs. That's on the list.
Racket Sports
I've enjoyed racket sports since I was a kid. Badminton was my first, and I still play it now and then when I can find a court and a willing opponent. Padel is a more recent addition; it's surprisingly fun and much easier to pick up than tennis.