How Watching Movies Can Improve Your Spoken English Skills

Watching movies is a fun and effective way to enhance your English speaking abilities.

Start with Simple Movies

When embarking on a journey of cinematic exploration, it can be overwhelming to decide where to begin. One approach that can ease you into the world of movies is to start with simple films that resonate with you personally. This can help build your interest and appreciation for cinema in a way that reflects your own experiences and preferences.

Choose movies made by people with your accent and culture

One way to start with simple movies is to choose films made by filmmakers with your accent and from your culture. Movies often reflect the perspectives, values, and experiences of the filmmakers behind them. By selecting films that share similarities with your own background, you can easily connect with the characters, themes, and overall storytelling.

For example, if you have a strong connection to French culture, starting with classic French films or contemporary French cinema can provide a familiar entry point into the world of movies. Similarly, if you have a specific accent or dialect that you resonate with, exploring films where characters speak in a similar manner can make the viewing experience more relatable and enjoyable.

Select films that resonate with you personally

Another approach to starting with simple movies is to choose films that resonate with you personally on a deeper level. This can involve selecting movies that touch upon topics or themes that are close to your heart or mirror aspects of your own life. When a movie resonates with you personally, it can evoke strong emotions, spark meaningful reflections, and create a lasting impact.

For instance, if you have a passion for music, watching movies centered around musicians or the power of music can be a fulfilling starting point. If you value stories of perseverance and overcoming obstacles, selecting films that depict such narratives can inspire and motivate you. By choosing movies that speak to your individual interests and values, you can enhance your movie-watching experience and cultivate a deeper connection with the medium.

Understand different accents by watching diverse movies

Watching diverse movies can also be a valuable way to start exploring the world of cinema. Films from different regions, languages, and cultures offer opportunities to broaden your understanding of the world and its myriad narratives. Additionally, exposure to movies with diverse accents can help you become more attuned to different linguistic nuances and develop a richer appreciation for the art of storytelling.

For example, watching a mix of foreign films with subtitles can not only introduce you to new cultural perspectives but also expose you to a variety of accents and languages. This exposure can enhance your ability to appreciate different ways of communication and expression, ultimately enriching your movie-watching experience.

By starting with simple movies that align with your accent and culture, resonate with you personally, and expose you to diverse accents and storytelling styles, you can lay a strong foundation for your cinematic journey. These initial steps can help you develop a deeper appreciation for the art of filmmaking and inspire you to explore a wider range of movies in the future.

Become a Die-Hard Fan

Are you ready to take your passion for movies or characters to the next level? Becoming a die-hard fan is more than just casual interest; it involves deepening your connection, understanding, and appreciation for the intricate world of your favorite movie or character. Here's how you can elevate your fandom experience:

Learn more about characters and language

One of the first steps to becoming a devoted fan is immersing yourself in the rich background of the characters. Take the time to delve into their histories, motivations, and relationships. Understanding the character's journey can provide valuable insights into the storyline and enhance your overall viewing experience.

To truly become a die-hard fan, consider exploring the language used in the movie or by the character. Whether it's unique dialogue, catchphrases, or even a fictional language, grasping the linguistic nuances can deepen your connection to the narrative.

Engage with the movie or character on a deeper level

Watching a movie or following a character goes beyond mere entertainment—it becomes a personal experience. To engage with the material on a deeper level, consider analyzing the themes, symbolism, and character development present in the story.

Discussing the movie with fellow fans or participating in online forums can provide fresh perspectives and interpretations that you might not have considered. By engaging in thoughtful conversations and sharing theories, you can broaden your understanding and appreciation of the movie or character.

Immerse yourself in the English language through fandom

Fandom can be a gateway to language immersion, particularly if you're exploring English-language movies or characters. By actively participating in the fan community, reading fan fiction, or watching interviews with cast members, you can absorb English vocabulary, slang, and expressions in a fun and engaging way.

Consider challenging yourself to write fan fiction or create fan art in English. This hands-on approach can not only improve your language skills but also allow you to express your creativity and passion for the movie or character in a unique way.

Remember, becoming a die-hard fan is a journey that requires dedication, curiosity, and an open mind. By delving into the intricacies of characters, engaging with the material deeply, and immersing yourself in the English language through fandom, you can elevate your appreciation and connection to your favorite movie or character like never before.

Recommended Movies for Language Learning

Animation

Watching animated movies is a fun and effective way to improve your language skills. Not only are these movies visually engaging, but they also tend to use simple language that is easier to follow. Here are some top animated movies that can help you in your language learning journey:

• Croods: Follow the prehistoric adventures of the Croods family as they navigate a changing world.
• Shrek: Join Shrek, Donkey, and Fiona in their hilarious and heartwarming fairy tale adventure.
• Moana: Embark on a journey with the brave and adventurous Moana as she sets sail across the ocean.
• How to Train Your Dragon: Discover the magical world of dragons and Vikings in this epic tale of friendship and courage.

Superhero

Superhero movies are not only action-packed and exciting but also filled with dynamic dialogue that can help you improve your language skills. Here are some must-watch superhero movies for language learners:

1. Avengers: Witness the epic team-up of Earth's mightiest heroes as they battle against powerful foes.
2. Star Wars: Immerse yourself in the intergalactic saga of Jedi knights, Sith lords, and the battle for the galaxy.
3. Wonder Woman: Follow the iconic Amazonian warrior as she fights for justice and peace in a world torn by war.

Sci-Fi

Science fiction movies often feature imaginative worlds and advanced technology, making them both entertaining and educational for language learners. Explore new worlds and enhance your language skills with these sci-fi movie recommendations:

• Avatar: Journey to the lush alien world of Pandora and witness the clash between humans and the Na'vi.
• The Martian: Join astronaut Mark Watney as he struggles to survive on Mars in this gripping tale of resilience.
• Wall-E: Experience a touching love story set in a post-apocalyptic world where a waste-collecting robot discovers the true meaning of humanity.

By watching these diverse genres of movies, you can not only enjoy great storytelling but also immerse yourself in different language contexts, accents, and expressions. So grab some popcorn, sit back, relax, and let these movies enhance your language learning journey!

Utilize Language Learning Apps

Language learning is an enriching journey that opens up new opportunities for personal and professional growth. With the advent of technology, learning a new language has become more accessible and convenient than ever before. One of the most effective ways to improve your language skills is by utilizing language learning apps. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of using language learning apps, with a specific focus on how you can make the most of apps like Cambly.

Use Cambly for 1-on-1 Conversations with English Tutors

Cambly is a language learning app that connects you with native English speakers for 1-on-1 conversations. This personalized approach to learning allows you to practice speaking English in a comfortable and supportive environment. By engaging in real-time conversations with English tutors, you can improve your pronunciation, expand your vocabulary, and gain confidence in your language abilities.

• Engage in natural conversations: With Cambly, you can engage in authentic discussions on a wide range of topics, from everyday life to current events. This immersive experience helps you develop your conversational skills and learn how to communicate effectively in English.
• Receive instant feedback: One of the key benefits of using Cambly is the opportunity to receive instant feedback from experienced English tutors. They can correct your grammar mistakes, suggest alternative phrasing, and provide valuable insights to help you improve your language skills.
• Practice speaking in a relaxed setting: Cambly creates a relaxed and non-judgmental environment for language practice. You can feel at ease while speaking English, knowing that you have a supportive tutor who is there to assist you every step of the way.

Practice Speaking English in a Supportive Environment

Language learning can be challenging, especially when it comes to speaking skills. Many learners struggle to find opportunities to practice speaking in a supportive and encouraging environment. Language learning apps like Cambly address this issue by providing a platform where you can practice speaking English with confidence.

“The more you practice speaking English, the more natural and fluent you will become. Cambly offers a safe space to make mistakes, learn from them, and grow as a language learner.”

By engaging in regular conversations with English tutors on Cambly, you can overcome the fear of speaking in a foreign language and gradually improve your fluency. The interactive nature of the app allows you to engage in meaningful dialogues, ask questions, and receive personalized feedback to enhance your communication skills.

Improve Your Language Skills Through Interactive Sessions

Interactive learning is a powerful tool for language acquisition, as it engages multiple senses and learning modalities. Cambly offers interactive sessions that cater to various learning styles, making the language learning process engaging and effective.

1. Interactive exercises: Cambly provides interactive exercises and activities to help you practice listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in English. These hands-on tasks allow you to apply what you have learned in a fun and interactive way.
2. Role-play scenarios: Role-playing is an effective technique for practicing real-life conversations in English. With Cambly, you can engage in role-play scenarios with English tutors, simulating everyday interactions such as ordering food at a restaurant or conducting a job interview.
3. Feedback and progress tracking: Cambly offers detailed feedback on your language skills and tracks your progress over time. You can monitor your improvement, set goals for language proficiency, and tailor your learning experience to suit your individual needs.

Overall, language learning apps like Cambly offer a dynamic and engaging platform for improving your language skills. By taking advantage of 1-on-1 conversations, supportive environments, and interactive sessions, you can enhance your proficiency in English and embark on a rewarding language learning journey.

Bonus Tip for Language Improvement

Are you looking for ways to enhance your language skills? Engaging with content in English is a powerful method to boost your learning opportunities. In this digital age, there are various avenues through which you can immerse yourself in the English language. Here are some effective tips to aid in your language improvement journey:

1. Consume All Content in English

One of the best ways to improve your language skills is to immerse yourself in English content. Whether it's reading books, watching movies, or listening to podcasts, consuming content in English provides you with a wide range of vocabulary and linguistic structures. This exposure helps you become more familiar with the language and improves your fluency over time.

2. Listen to English Cricket Commentary

Sports commentary, such as English cricket commentary, offers a unique opportunity to improve your language skills. Listening to commentators describing the game in real-time can help you grasp colloquial expressions, sports-related vocabulary, and the art of storytelling. This active listening practice enhances your language comprehension and allows you to appreciate the cultural nuances embedded in sports commentary.

3. Read English Newspapers

Reading English newspapers is a valuable habit for language learners. Newspapers cover a wide range of topics and provide exposure to different writing styles, from news articles to editorials. By regularly reading English newspapers, you can expand your vocabulary, improve your reading comprehension, and stay up-to-date with current affairs. Additionally, newspapers offer insights into the cultural and societal issues prevalent in English-speaking regions.

4. Watch English YouTube Channels Like The Urban Fight

YouTube has emerged as a popular platform for language learning, and there is a plethora of English content available for viewers. Subscribe to English YouTube channels like The Urban Fight to access diverse content ranging from educational videos to entertainment segments. Watching videos in English not only enhances your listening skills but also exposes you to different accents, expressions, and visual cues that aid in language retention.

Summary (TL;DR)

Immerse yourself in English content through various mediums such as reading newspapers, watching YouTube channels like The Urban Fight, and listening to English cricket commentary. These immersive experiences offer rich learning opportunities, expand your vocabulary, and enhance your language comprehension skills.

The Science and Psychology Behind Dance Performance

Explore the fascinating relationship between brain function, neuroplasticity, and dance performance.

Gemma's Journey as a Dancer

From a young age, Gemma's life has been intertwined with the art of dance. At just three years old, she took her first steps into the world of movement and music, setting the stage for a lifelong passion. Influenced by the melodies that filled her home, Gemma's journey as a dancer began with a natural inclination towards rhythm and expression.

Music and Movement: A Harmonious Beginning

For Gemma, the love for dance bloomed in the nurturing environment of her household. Surrounded by the sounds of music, she found solace and excitement in the beats and melodies that filled the air. It was amidst this symphony that Gemma's curiosity led her to explore the physical manifestation of these sounds through dance.

Starting her journey at a tender age of three, Gemma's initial steps on the dance floor were not just about movement but also about connection. Every sway, twirl, and jump resonated with the music that played a vital role in shaping her earliest experiences as a dancer.

A Mother's Encouragement: The Spark that Ignited the Passion

While Gemma's surroundings nurtured her love for dance, it was her mother's unwavering support that fueled her passion. Encouraged by her mother's belief in her talent and dedication, Gemma found the strength to push her boundaries and explore the vast world of dance with confidence and determination.

Her mother's words of encouragement became the soundtrack of Gemma's dance journey, instilling in her the belief that she could achieve anything she set her mind to. With each performance, her mother's presence in the audience was a source of inspiration and motivation, spurring Gemma to reach new heights and unleash her full potential as a dancer.

The Science of Dance: Exploring the Mind-Body Connection

As Gemma's passion for dance grew, so did her curiosity about the intricate relationship between brain function and movement. Fascinated by the science behind the art form she loved, Gemma delved into the study of how dance influences cognitive processes and emotional responses.

Her interest in the neuroscience of dance led her to explore the ways in which movement can shape neural pathways, enhance memory, and even alleviate stress. Through this exploration, Gemma gained a deeper appreciation for the transformative power of dance on both the body and the mind.

By understanding the science behind brain function and dance, Gemma unlocked new possibilities in her practice, allowing her to approach each movement with intention and mindfulness. As she continued to hone her skills and expand her knowledge, dance became not just a form of expression but also a means of self-discovery and personal growth.

In conclusion, Gemma's journey as a dancer is a testament to the profound impact of music, encouragement, and scientific exploration on one's passion for the art form. Through her early beginnings influenced by music at home, her mother's unwavering support, and her fascination with the science of dance, Gemma has evolved into a dancer who embodies artistry, dedication, and a deep understanding of the mind-body connection.

The Role of Motor Neurons in Dance

When we watch a dancer gracefully move across the stage or when we ourselves bust a move on the dance floor, it's easy to forget the intricate dance that our brain and body are performing in perfect synchrony. At the heart of this coordination are motor neurons – the unsung heroes that control our body movements and allow us to express ourselves through dance.

Let's delve into the fascinating world of motor neurons and uncover their essential role in the art of dance.

1. Motor Neurons: The Puppet Masters of Movement

Motor neurons are a crucial component of the nervous system, responsible for transmitting signals from the brain to the muscles, directing and coordinating movement. Just like puppeteers controlling marionettes, motor neurons pull the strings that enable us to dance, walk, gesture, and perform any physical activity.

These specialized nerve cells are located in the brain and spinal cord and form the connection between the central nervous system and the muscles throughout the body. They play a vital role in initiating and modulating muscle contractions, ensuring the precise execution of movement.

2. The Dance of Neurons: Action and Observation

One of the remarkable aspects of motor neurons is their activation not only during physical action but also during the observation of movement. This phenomenon, known as mirror neuron activation, highlights the interconnectedness of our brains when it comes to understanding and performing actions.

When we watch a dance performance or observe someone else's movements, our mirror neurons fire up, simulating the actions in our own brain. This neural mirroring allows us to empathize with the dancer, understand their movements, and even mimic them to some extent. It's this intricate neural dance that bridges the gap between observation and action, blurring the lines between self and other.

3. From Brain to Body: The Command Center of Dance

As we groove to the rhythm of music or follow the choreography of a dance routine, our motor neurons are working tirelessly behind the scenes, translating neural signals into coordinated muscle movements. The brain sends out commands through the motor neurons, triggering a cascade of events that result in fluid and precise motions.

Every step, twirl, and gesture we make in dance is orchestrated by the synchronized firing of motor neurons, creating a seamless connection between intention and execution. Through practice and repetition, dancers hone their motor skills, fine-tuning the communication between brain and body to achieve mastery in their craft.

4. The Neurological Symphony of Dance

Imagine a symphony where each instrument represents a different motor neuron, playing its part in perfect harmony to create a masterpiece of movement. In dance, our brain acts as the conductor, directing the symphony of neurons to choreograph a stunning performance.

From the intricate footwork of a ballet dancer to the expressive gestures of a contemporary performer, every dance style showcases the diversity and adaptability of our motor neurons. They allow us to express our emotions, tell stories, and connect with others through the universal language of movement.

5. Embodying the Rhythm: Dance as a Neural Workout

Engaging in dance not only delights our senses and stirs our emotions but also provides a stimulating workout for our neural pathways. The complex coordination and synchronization required in dance activate a wide network of motor neurons, enhancing our brain's plasticity and cognitive function.

Whether you're practicing a new routine, improvising to your favorite song, or simply letting loose on the dance floor, you're giving your brain a mental workout that boosts neuroplasticity and promotes overall brain health. So, the next time you feel the urge to dance, know that you're not just moving your body – you're also nurturing your brain.

As we wrap up our exploration of the role of motor neurons in dance, take a moment to appreciate the incredible dance that's constantly unfolding within you. Every step you take, every spin you make, is a testament to the intricate interplay between your brain, body, and the dance of neurons orchestrating your every move.

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The Brain Changes in Expert Dancers

Have you ever wondered how expert dancers seem to effortlessly glide across the dance floor, executing complex moves with precision and grace? It turns out that their brains have undergone significant changes due to years of dedicated practice and training. Let's delve into the fascinating world of how the brains of expert dancers differ from those of novices.

Neuroplasticity and Dance

One of the key reasons why the brains of expert dancers are different is due to neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. When dancers engage in repetitive practice, such as learning choreography or perfecting a specific move, these activities can lead to structural changes in the brain.

Studies have shown that dance training can increase the density of white matter in the brain, which is responsible for transmitting information between different regions. This enhanced connectivity can improve coordination, motor skills, and overall cognitive function.

Automaticity in Expert Dancers

Another interesting phenomenon that occurs in the brains of expert dancers is the development of automaticity. This term refers to the ability to perform movements without conscious effort or active thought. In other words, expert dancers can execute complex dance sequences almost instinctively, without having to think about each individual step.

This automaticity is the result of years of practice and repetition, which have ingrained specific motor patterns into the dancer's neural circuitry. As a result, their movements become smoother, more fluid, and require less cognitive effort compared to novice dancers.

The Role of Muscle Memory

One of the key mechanisms driving the development of automaticity in expert dancers is muscle memory. When dancers repeatedly practice a particular movement or sequence, they strengthen the neural connections between the brain and the muscles involved.

This enhanced connection allows dancers to perform intricate movements with speed and accuracy, as the brain can rapidly signal the muscles without the need for conscious thought. Muscle memory plays a crucial role in improving performance consistency and reducing the risk of errors during dance routines.

Enhanced Cognitive Abilities

In addition to changes in motor skills and automaticity, expert dancers also exhibit enhanced cognitive abilities compared to non-dancers. Dance training has been shown to improve memory, attention, and multitasking skills, as dancers need to remember choreography, coordinate movements, and interpret musical cues simultaneously.

Furthermore, dance requires a high level of spatial awareness and kinesthetic sensitivity, which can lead to improvements in proprioception and body awareness. These cognitive benefits extend beyond the dance studio and can positively impact other aspects of daily life.

In conclusion, the brains of expert dancers undergo significant changes as a result of dedicated practice and training. Neuroplasticity, automaticity, muscle memory, and enhanced cognitive abilities all play a role in shaping the brains of dancers and contributing to their exceptional skills on the dance floor. The next time you watch a professional dancer perform, remember that their seemingly effortless movements are the result of years of hard work and the remarkable adaptability of the human brain.

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Psychological Aspects of Dance Performance

Dance is not just about physical movements but also about the mental and emotional aspects that contribute to a stellar performance. In the world of dance, psychology plays a crucial role in determining the success of a dancer on stage. Let's delve into two key psychological factors that significantly impact dance performance: breathing and self-talk.

Breathing and Self-Talk Impact Performance

Have you ever noticed that your breath changes when you are nervous or stressed? The way we breathe can have a direct impact on our performance, especially in a high-pressure situation like a dance performance. Shallow and irregular breathing not only limits the flow of oxygen to your muscles but also signals to your brain that you are in a state of stress.

When dancers experience performance anxiety, their breath tends to become rapid and shallow, leading to increased tension in the body. This tension can hinder their movements, affecting the overall quality of their performance. Furthermore, negative self-talk or internal dialogue can further exacerbate the situation.

Self-talk refers to the inner monologue that runs through our minds, influencing our beliefs, emotions, and actions. In the context of dance performance, negative self-talk can be detrimental. Thoughts like "I'm not good enough" or "I'm going to mess up" can create a self-fulfilling prophecy, impairing confidence and performance.

"The way we breathe can have a direct impact on our performance, especially in a high-pressure situation like a dance performance."

It is essential for dancers to be aware of their breathing patterns and self-talk tendencies to address any detrimental effects on their performance. By identifying and changing these negative patterns, dancers can improve their mental state and ultimately enhance their performance on stage.

Diaphragmatic Breathing and Self-Talk Improve Performance

One effective way to optimize breathing for dance performance is through diaphragmatic breathing. This type of breathing involves engaging the diaphragm muscle to take deep, slow breaths that fully expand the lungs. Diaphragmatic breathing not only increases oxygen intake but also promotes relaxation and reduces stress.

Before a dance performance, incorporating diaphragmatic breathing exercises can help calm the nerves and center the mind. By focusing on deep, rhythmic breaths, dancers can enter a state of flow where movements become more fluid and controlled. This, in turn, enhances their overall performance on stage.

In addition to mastering breathing techniques, cultivating positive self-talk is also crucial for optimizing dance performance. Encouraging and affirming thoughts can boost confidence and motivation, leading to a more empowered and focused performance.

By replacing negative self-talk with positive affirmations such as "I am fully prepared" or "I am capable of delivering a captivating performance," dancers can shift their mindset towards success. This shift in internal dialogue can create a ripple effect on their emotions and actions, ultimately elevating their performance to new heights.

Remember, dance is as much a mental game as it is physical. By harnessing the power of breathing techniques and self-talk, dancers can unlock their full potential and deliver unforgettable performances that resonate with audiences.

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Enhancing Performance Through Visualization

Visualization is not just a technique; it's a powerful tool that can significantly impact a dancer's performance. By harnessing the power of visualization, dancers can enhance their skills, confidence, and overall performance on stage. Let's delve into how visualization plays a crucial role in optimizing performance and how self-reflection can further aid in developing effective performance strategies.

Visualization: A Key Strategy for Dancers

As a dancer, you already understand the importance of practice, technique, and physical conditioning. However, what sets outstanding dancers apart is their ability to mentally rehearse their routines through visualization. When you visualize a dance routine, you are essentially creating a mental simulation of the performance in your mind.

This visualization technique allows you to focus on every detail of your performance – from the movements of your body to the emotions you want to convey. By repeatedly visualizing your routine with precision and detail, you are reinforcing the neural pathways in your brain associated with those movements. This mental practice can enhance muscle memory, coordination, and overall performance execution when you step onto the stage.

Moreover, visualization helps in boosting confidence and reducing performance anxiety. By visualizing yourself performing flawlessly and receiving applause and admiration from the audience, you are programming your mind for success. This positive reinforcement can have a profound impact on your self-belief and mindset, enabling you to perform at your best when it matters the most.

Incorporating visualization into your daily practice routine can sharpen your focus, improve your artistry, and elevate your performance to new heights. Whether you are rehearsing a complex routine or fine-tuning your stage presence, visualization can be a game-changer in your dance journey.

Self-Reflection: Developing Performance Strategies

While visualization sets the stage for peak performance, self-reflection is the key to refining and optimizing your performance strategies. Self-reflection involves critically assessing your past performances, identifying areas for improvement, and devising actionable plans to enhance your skills and artistry.

After each performance or practice session, take the time to reflect on your strengths, weaknesses, and areas that need refinement. Ask yourself questions like:

• What aspects of my performance stood out positively?
• Where did I encounter challenges or make mistakes?
• How can I improve my technique, expression, or overall stage presence?

Self-reflection is not about being overly critical but about being objective and proactive in your approach to growth and development. By acknowledging your strengths and weaknesses, you can tailor your practice sessions to address specific areas that need attention.

Additionally, self-reflection allows you to set realistic goals and track your progress over time. Whether you aim to master a difficult choreography sequence or convey a particular emotion more convincingly, self-assessment can guide you in setting benchmarks and milestones for your dance journey.

Integrating self-reflection into your practice routine fosters a continuous cycle of improvement and growth. By analyzing your performances, learning from your experiences, and adjusting your strategies accordingly, you can evolve as a dancer and consistently push the boundaries of your artistic expression.

In conclusion, visualization and self-reflection are invaluable tools that dancers can leverage to enhance their performance quality and develop effective strategies for success. By embracing these techniques and incorporating them into your practice regimen, you can unlock your full potential, refine your skills, and captivate audiences with your artistry and passion.

```json{ "heading": "Benefits of Dance", "bulletPoints": [ "Physical, social, and emotional engagement", "Challenging yet rewarding experience for dancers" ]}```Kudos to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjUregOtV_Q for the insightful content. Check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjUregOtV_Q.