Live events are set to make a welcome return as the UK moves out of lockdown in the coming months. Sporting, music and cultural events are among the things that people have missed most during the pandemic and are most looking forward to being able to attend again.
As a lecturer in Japanese studies, the first questions I ask my students is: “What sort of images come to mind when you think of Japan?” The answers usually include advanced technologies, red shrine gates, anime and great food – such as sushi, ramen and so on.
It's been over 24 hours, but I know it was true. I just know. Still, Momma will not believe me. It happened yesterday, when Meritz, Tina, Snuffy and I were playing dodge ball on the edge of The Big Field. The field's edge is the only place in our apartments where we can play safely. All the other areas are full of gangs.
- By Les Johnson
The pioneer’s contributions to reggae are being revisited by those who understand the full scope of his impact on reggae – and many more genres besides.
Many people regard the imagination with suspicion, as something that has no place in adult life. In contrast, the wisdom traditions teach that the imagination is one of the most important, most direct channels to the divine, and probably one of the oldest.
Many people regard the imagination with suspicion, as something that has no place in adult life. In contrast, the wisdom traditions teach that the imagination is one of the most important, most direct channels to the divine, and probably one of the oldest.
Creativity, or bringing something into being, results from the interaction between form and potential. How these energies play together determines what is created -- the imaginings of your life and world. When you squarely face potential, you place your life on the line -- each and every...
Researchers have shown how creative thinking can be cultivated by simple habits like exercise, sleep and reading. But another catalyst is unplanned interactions with close friends, casual acquaintances and complete strangers. With the closure of...
For many lovers of classic literature, opportunities to devour the works of undiscovered authors can be enough to make people’s eyes light up. For those who aren’t as keen on the genre, the appeal of these titles is a little less obvious.
Many of us may be looking to art activities to keep children busy while at home. If you are, I want you to know that you are doing something positive for your children. From improving communication and motor skills to helping them develop a sense of self...
We invite you to think of how to tend to your own connection needs while also thinking about those in your community. All of us will need tremendous energy for the emotional work ahead.
As cities all over the world shut down to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus, videos emerged on the internet: Italians singing from their balconies, policemen in Spain playing guitar while on patrol and New York City apartment dwellers singing along to The Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine” from their windows.
People tend to be extremely nostalgic about the music they listened to when they were young. If you were a teenager in the 1970s, chances are you will love Queen, Stevie Wonder or ABBA.
- By John Ellis
TV viewing has become more important during the pandemic, but a sense of shame still lingers around it. Even TV scholars still use the term “guilty pleasures” to describe their enjoyment of reality TV or series which attract some of the biggest viewing audiences, such as I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here,
- By Emma Hayes
Frances Hodgson Burnett’s The Secret Garden has been described as “the most significant children’s book of the 20th century.” The novel is a sensitive and complex story, which explores how a relationship with nature can foster our emotional and physical well-being.
Like many people, you may have resolved this New Year to read more in 2021 and spend less time on your screens. And now you may be wondering how to find the time to do it...
Like several classics penned during the golden age of children’s literature, The Wind in the Willows was written with a particular child in mind.
For most of us, 2020 was an exhausting year. The COVID-19 pandemic heralded draining physical health concerns, social isolation, job dislocation, uncertainty about the future and related mental health issues.
- By Brett Healey
Ask a child why they write and you might receive a common response: the teacher told me to. Kids often lack confidence as writers and find it emotionally draining. The problem might be the classroom and...
The COVID-19 pandemic brought the global tourism industry to a screeching halt in 2020. With vaccines starting to be rolled out, there is hope international travel can resume soon, but exactly when — and how — is the million-dollar question.
As the COVID pandemic took hold in March, Ohio’s Brady Sluder went to Miami for spring break, despite urgent calls for people to stay home and socially distance.
The first Christmas card was, perhaps predictably, one of good cheer. The concept is commonly credited to Sir Henry Cole, the founder of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.