Explore the divine beauty, rich symbolism, and tragic history of Cambodia’s Apsara dance. From the ancient temples of Angkor to its near-destruction and incredible revival, discover a living art form that embodies the soul of a nation.
Fado: Unveiling the Soulful & Sorrowful Beauty of Portugal’s Music
Discover Fado, Portugal’s iconic music of “saudade.” Explore its history, key artists like Amália Rodrigues, and the profound emotion that makes Fado a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Belgian Beer Culture: History, Rituals & Why It’s UNESCO Heritage
Explore Belgium’s rich beer culture, a UNESCO heritage. Discover Trappist ales, sour Lambics, unique brewing history & the time-honored rituals of Belgian beer appreciation.
Inside the Majlis: Exploring Saudi Arabia’s Unique Tradition of Gathering
Discover the rich cultural tradition of Majlis in Saudi Arabia: a vibrant space for community, dialogue, hospitality, and more. Learn about its history and modern significance.
Colombia’s Salsa: The Heartbeat of Culture and Art
Explore the vibrant world of Colombian salsa—from its rich cultural roots in Cali to its dynamic evolution and global impact. Discover how salsa unites communities and celebrates Colombia’s diverse heritage.
The Griot Storytellers of Mali: Preserving History Through Oral Tradition
Discover the rich tradition of Mali’s Griot storytellers, guardians of oral history and culture. Explore their role in preserving Mali’s heritage through storytelling and music.
Sweden’s Midsommar Celebration: Traditions, History, and Cultural Significance
Discover the magic of Sweden’s Midsommar celebration, its traditions, historical roots, and cultural significance. Learn how this summer festival brings communities together.
Nepal’s Kumari Tradition: The Living Goddess of Kathmandu
Discover Nepal’s Kumari Living Goddess tradition, a fascinating cultural practice where young girls are revered as divine beings. Explore its history, rituals, and significance.
Discovering Norway’s Love for Friluftsliv: Embracing the Outdoors
The Gist Norway is known for its breathtaking landscapes and a cultural practice that celebrates the outdoors: friluftsliv. This Norwegian concept, meaning “open-air living,” is more than just spending time outside; it’s about connecting with nature, finding peace,...
Exploring the Cultural Significance of Irish Music Sessions in Ireland
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Irish music sessions in Ireland. Learn how these gatherings preserve tradition, foster community, and bring the spirit of Ireland to life.
Recent Posts
The Year of the Open Door: A Manifesto for 2026
Happy New Year! Kick off 2026 with my biggest update yet. We’re introducing a new community-funded model, revealing an ambitious AI game project, and opening the vault on 15 years of unreleased music and stories. Plus, join our new creative challenges and Discord server. Let’s make this year unforgettable together!
Becoming the Luminary: Why Your New Year’s Resolution Should Be About Character, Not Weight
Tired of failed weight-loss resolutions? This New Year, try a “Character Resolution.” Learn how to become a “Luminary”—a source of light, warmth, and stability in your workplace and home.
Traditions of Light: How the World Fights the Winter Darkness
From the fireballs of Scotland to the candles of Scandinavia, join us on a global tour of light traditions. Discover the meaning behind St. Lucia, Diwali, Kwanzaa, and Hogmanay, and why we all crave light in the dark.
Starlight and Science: Why Winter is the Best Time to Look Up
Cold nights mean clear skies. Discover the science and philosophy of winter stargazing, from the “time travel” of looking at stars to the psychology of awe. Connect with the cosmos this season.
The Warmth of Forgiveness: Why You Should Drop the Grudge Before New Year’s Eve
Carrying a grudge is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer. As the New Year approaches, learn why “unilateral forgiveness” is the ultimate act of self-care and how to let go of the heavy baggage from the past year.
The Cold Truth: Why We Love Reading About Winter While We Stay Warm
Why do we love reading about freezing characters? From Dickens to Narnia, we explore how literature uses winter as a powerful symbol of isolation, clarity, and the necessity of warmth.