Global Perspectives on Seasonal Transitions
As the seasons shift, so too does the rhythm of life. Across the globe, people mark these transitions with traditions that reflect their connection to nature’s cycles.
From planting seeds in the spring to celebrating abundance during harvest, seasonal changes have always been a universal constant — yet they are interpreted through a lens as diverse as humanity itself.
Rewilding the Person
The term "rewilding" often brings to mind the restoration of ecosystems or the reintroduction of species into the wild.
However, it can also apply to the individual journey of rediscovering our intrinsic connection with nature.
Rewilding for the Planet and Self
Imagine stepping into a forest where the air hums with life.
Birds call from hidden perches, and wildflowers carpet the forest floor, each petal catching the sun.
How to Have a Sustainable Black Friday
Black Friday is one of the most anticipated shopping days of the year, offering deep discounts that tempt shoppers into buying more than they need.
While the deals can be exciting, this retail holiday has significant environmental and social consequences.
The Spice Route’s Secrets
The Spice Route, a sprawling network of trade pathways that connected civilizations from East Asia to the Mediterranean, was more than a channel for exotic spices — it was a culinary bridge. Through it traveled not just goods like pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg, but also recipes, techniques, and culinary philosophies that transformed kitchens across the globe.
Banquets of the Celts
Across the misty landscapes of ancient Europe, the Celts gathered for vibrant seasonal festivals, their tables brimming with the bounty of the natural world.
These ancient feasts celebrated the land’s gifts, highlighting the ingenuity and resourcefulness of a foraging culture.
Rome’s Forgotten Feast
Imagine dining amidst marble columns, feasting on delicacies crafted for Roman emperors and philosophers alike. Ancient Rome's culinary traditions, rich with sophistication and variety, influenced cuisines across the Mediterranean and beyond.
Cooking with the Aztecs
Transport yourself to the vibrant world of the Aztec Empire, where food was not just sustenance but a powerful expression of culture, spirituality, and innovation.
The Aztecs were culinary pioneers, cultivating flavours that have become staples in kitchens worldwide.
Feasting Like a Pharaoh
Step back in time to the golden age of Ancient Egypt, where grand feasts were not only a way to nourish the body but also a celebration of life and the divine. The rich culinary traditions of the Pharaohs offer a fascinating glimpse into a civilization that revered its ingredients as much as its gods.
How to Host a Sustainable Autumn Feast
Autumn is the perfect season to gather friends and family for a cozy feast, celebrating the abundance of the harvest. The crisp air, the scent of seasonal ingredients, and the vibrant colors of fall set the stage for an unforgettable meal.
But in today’s world, where sustainability has become a key focus, hosting an autumn feast can also be an opportunity to minimize your environmental impact and promote conscious consumption.
Nature Walks
Autumn is a season that invites us to slow down and immerse ourselves in nature's changing landscape.
With vibrant foliage, crisp air, and the sound of crunching leaves beneath our feet, autumn offers the perfect backdrop for a nature walk.
Seasonal Crafts
Autumn, with its crisp air and rich hues, encourages us to slow down and engage in creative activities that connect us to nature and our traditions.
Two such timeless crafts that align perfectly with the season are candle making and weaving.
The History and Evolution of Harvest Celebrations
Across human history, harvest celebrations have served as pivotal moments for communities to honour the earth’s abundance.
From ancient rituals rooted in gratitude to modern events focused on sustainability, these traditions reflect humanity's relationship with nature and its cycles.
Ways to Celebrate the Autumn Equinox Across Cultures and Time
The autumn equinox is a unique celestial event that marks the moment when day and night are nearly equal in length.
Across cultures and throughout history, this event has been a time to honor balance, give thanks for the harvest, and prepare for the changes ahead.
Greek Cookies Around the Year
Greek cookies are not just about taste; they carry deep cultural significance, binding families and communities together during the holidays and throughout the year.
From the festive melomakarona and kourabiedes to the simple everyday koulouria, these sweet treats reflect the richness of Greece's history, traditions, and diverse regional influences.
Greek Coffee
There is a special ritual in Greece, one that transcends mere beverage consumption. Greek coffee is more than a drink — it’s a time-honoured tradition, steeped in cultural significance, history, and family. In every sip of thick, dark coffee, rich with foam (known as kaimaki), there’s a connection to centuries of history.
The preparation and enjoyment of Greek coffee are deeply tied to the social fabric of Greek life, a bridge between generations, neighbours, and cultures.
The Whale-Hunting Traditions of Pacific Northwest Indigenous Tribes
In the misty coastal landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, where cedar forests meet the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, the rhythms of life have long been intertwined with the cycles of nature.
Among the Makah of Washington State and the Nuu-chah-nulth of Vancouver Island, one tradition rises above others in its cultural and spiritual significance: whale hunting.
Modern Trends in Sustainable Agriculture Across West Africa
As West African countries face the dual challenges of food insecurity and climate change, the region's agricultural systems are undergoing significant transformation.
With a population projected to exceed 400 million by 2050, sustainable agriculture has become crucial for ensuring food security, promoting economic stability, and preserving the environment.
The Role of Local Ingredients in Sustainable Culinary Practices
West African cuisine, known for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and rich cultural heritage, is deeply rooted in the use of local ingredients.
As global food systems face significant environmental and social challenges, West Africa’s reliance on indigenous, seasonal, and locally sourced foods offers valuable lessons in sustainability and cultural preservation.
A Guide to West African Ingredients
West African cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, textures, and traditions that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage. Among the diverse array of dishes, Nigerian cuisine stands out for its unique combinations of ingredients that create unforgettable meals. One such dish, Afia Efere, a comforting white soup from the Efik people of southeastern Nigeria, showcases the region's culinary artistry.