Contentious issues are topics or subjects that provoke strong disagreement or controversy among individuals or groups. These issues often involve differing opinions, values, beliefs, or interests, leading to heated debates or conflicts. Contentious issues can arise in various contexts, such as politics, social issues, religion, or personal relationships. Resolving contentious issues often requires open communication, empathy, and compromise to find common ground or reach a resolution. **

Everyday contentious issues related to democracy can include debates over freedom of speech and expression, the balance between individual rights and public safety, the role of money in politics, and the accessibility of voting. These issues often spark heated discussions and disagreements among citizens, politicians, and advocacy groups. Additionally, issues related to the representation of marginalized communities, the influence of special interest groups, and the transparency of government decision-making processes can also be sources of contention in a democratic society. **

Voluntary jurisdiction refers to a court's authority to hear a case when both parties agree to submit to its jurisdiction. On the other hand, contentious jurisdiction allows a court to hear a case even if one of the parties does not consent to its jurisdiction. In voluntary jurisdiction, the parties willingly choose to bring their case before a particular court, while in contentious jurisdiction, the court has the power to hear the case regardless of the parties' consent. **

One can practice meditation through conscious breathing by focusing their attention on the sensation of their breath as it enters and leaves their body. This can be done by finding a comfortable position, closing the eyes, and bringing awareness to the natural rhythm of the breath. By consciously observing the breath, one can cultivate a sense of calm and presence, and gradually quiet the mind. This practice can be done for a few minutes or longer, and can be integrated into daily routines to promote relaxation and mindfulness. **

Shallow and painful breathing during meditation can be caused by a variety of factors. It could be due to stress or anxiety, which can cause the body to tense up and the breath to become shallow. It could also be a result of trying too hard to control the breath, rather than allowing it to flow naturally. Additionally, physical discomfort or underlying health issues could be contributing to the pain and shallow breathing. It's important to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed, such as finding a more comfortable sitting position or seeking guidance from a meditation teacher. **

Energy balance refers to the relationship between the energy consumed through food and beverages and the energy expended through physical activity and metabolic processes. When energy intake equals energy expenditure, a person is said to be in energy balance. This balance is important for maintaining a healthy weight and overall well-being. If there is an imbalance, with more energy consumed than expended, it can lead to weight gain, and vice versa. **

An energy balance refers to the equilibrium between the energy intake and energy expenditure of an individual. It is the relationship between the calories consumed through food and beverages and the calories burned through physical activity and metabolic processes. When energy intake matches energy expenditure, the body is in a state of balance and weight is maintained. However, if there is an imbalance, either by consuming more calories than the body needs or by burning fewer calories than consumed, it can lead to weight gain or weight loss. **

It is common to find it difficult to perceive one's breathing during meditation because the mind is often filled with distractions and thoughts that make it challenging to focus on the breath. Additionally, the act of consciously observing the breath can sometimes make it feel unnatural or forced, leading to difficulty in perceiving it. It may also be due to a lack of practice and experience in meditation, as it takes time and patience to develop the ability to fully focus on the breath. It is important to be patient with oneself and continue practicing, as over time, the ability to perceive the breath during meditation can improve. **