A month ago my stepdaughter accidentally launched me into another excellent historical rabbit hole. She got me interested in Junk Journaling. With that I of course wondered if anything like it existed in SCA period. I learned the closest thing was medieval commonplace books. And with that I accidentally opened a much bigger “rabbit hole”…
I am deeply aware of how fortunate I’ve been to see so much of the world. Over the years, I’ve traveled through 40 of the 50 United States, 10 Western European countries, and two Asian countries. Some of those trips were quick—tourist snapshots and postcards—but others shaped my life in quieter, longer-lasting ways. I didn’t…
In summer, traditional Chinese practices emphasize gentle cooling for the body rather than extreme measures. At Lilies War, drinks like Chrysanthemum Tea, Barley Tea, and Mint Infusion offer refreshing options to combat heat while promoting balance. These beverages, easy to make and share, enhance comfort during warm days.
To Madam Wang Meizhen, I send you greetings and trust that your household remains in good order and your shelves well supplied. I write to request a careful selection of herbs for a difficult case that has come into my care. The patient is a woman of about thirty years, whose bound feet have become…
The author reflects on an invitation to host a Tai Chi demo at a Spa Day, transitioning from an instructor mindset to that of a host. By simplifying the experience and creating a practical handout for participants, the focus shifts to offering accessible moments of calm. Anticipation builds for feedback following the event.
The post explores the historical roots of Qigong as a medical practice rather than merely exercise or meditation. It highlights three significant figures: Hua Tuo, Sun Simiao, and Ge Hong, who emphasized movement, compassion, and lifelong cultivation of health, reminding us that true wellness stems from consistent, mindful living.
In her letter, Li Zhenyan expresses relief at receiving correspondence from her sister, Little Plum, amidst the spread of a troubling illness called “Heavenly Flowers” resembling smallpox. She cautions her sister about the disease’s severity and urges her to take precautions. Li Zhenyan worries for children’s welfare and seeks updates on their health.
The author reflects on the challenges of doing laundry at a laundromat, emphasizing the lessons learned through humorous experiences. They highlight the importance of being prepared, adapting to unfamiliar machines, and mastering the art of folding. Ultimately, the day’s mishaps led to unexpected exercise and valuable life lessons.
This week, I taught Qigong for the first time to members of my Barony. Despite initial nerves, the experience was rewarding as participants embraced the simplicity of the practice. It highlighted the community’s need for gentle movement and mindfulness. I look forward to continuing this journey together, fostering growth and confidence.
The author reflects on transformative changes occurring simultaneously in their life, from practical home renovations to emotional losses like the death of a pet. Instead of viewing these shifts as mere loss, they see them as opportunities for renewal and growth, creating space for new experiences and personal evolution.
The author of “An Itinerant Scribe” reflects on their evolving research methods, now incorporating lived experiences and tools like ChatGPT, alongside traditional sources. They aim to present historical insights engagingly, emphasizing the importance of interpretation over strict accuracy, and inviting reader interaction to enhance the learning experience.
The author recounts a near-accident at a mall while daydreaming. A speeding car executed a sharp turn, narrowly missing a collision. Despite the close call, no damage occurred. Grateful for the driver’s lucky maneuver, the author continued with their day, reflecting on the unexpected moments where fortune favors those who remain still.
Zhenyan expresses concern about the younger generation’s disregard for proper dining etiquette. They hastily eat without patience or consideration, leading to chaos at the table. Zhenyan believes that dining reflects character and tradition, lamenting the loss of these values. She yearns for the mindful approach to meals they once shared.
Lotus shoes, worn by women in Ming Dynasty China, symbolized beauty and status, representing the ideal of the “golden lotus” formed through foot binding. While they showcased craftsmanship and were seen as elegant, they also caused pain and disability. The practice lasted for over a thousand years, officially ending in 1911.
Li Zhenyan writes to Physician Chen about frustrations regarding gender-based medical practices. She reflects on a recent case where a male physician diagnosed a patient without seeing her, highlighting the limitations of distance in understanding patients’ true conditions. Li emphasizes the importance of female physicians’ direct observation and communication in medicine.
The author reflects on the traditional Chinese greeting gesture, the gongshou salute, which consists of a slight head dip with hands clasped. Unlike the formalized bowing in Japanese customs, this gesture is understated and rooted in Chinese etiquette. The author shares personal experiences of muscle memory from living in Taiwan, showing how culture can influence behavior.
In Yuzhou’s bustling market at dawn, the sounds of trade reveal much about the people—tired sellers, the sick, and daily struggles. Reflecting on his father’s wisdom, the narrator finds meaning in observing life, where health and conversation intertwine. The market serves as a hub of remedies, gossip, and shared experiences.
The discussion around Li Zhenyan’s unbound feet highlights the complexities of women’s experiences in Ming China. Footbinding, though prevalent, was not universal and varied by region and circumstance. Zhenyan’s upbringing emphasized education and practicality over societal norms, reflecting the diverse narratives of women’s history beyond a singular interpretation.
In her letter, Li Zhenyan expresses deep concern for her sister, Little Plum, amid the spread of the illness known as “Heavenly Flowers.” She urges caution and preventive measures to protect against the disease, especially for children. Li Zhenyan requests updates on their village and her sister’s well-being.