Tag Archives: advices

Unfolding Identity: The Bicultural Poetic Path

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Bicultural poetry, as a form of artistic expression, holds a unique power to heal generational trauma by bridging cultural divides and embracing the complexity of dual identities. It speaks directly to the lived experiences of people of color who navigate two or more cultural worlds, allowing them to confront and process deep-rooted traumas that may have been passed down through generations. Through language, imagery, and rhythm that reflect their heritage, bicultural poets create spaces for acknowledging pain, embracing resilience, and cultivating a sense of unity within themselves and across communities. By expressing these layered experiences, bicultural poetry becomes a way to honor the past while actively participating in personal and collective healing.

For people of color in bicultural communities, bicultural poetry is a source of empowerment. It provides a voice to navigate the nuances of identity, community, and the emotional landscapes that come with straddling multiple cultures. Through this medium, individuals reclaim parts of themselves that may have been marginalized or disregarded, making it a powerful tool for self-expression and affirmation. Poems exploring cultural duality allow POC to celebrate their heritage, confront stereotypes, and challenge societal expectations. As these voices gain visibility, they contribute to a broader narrative of cultural pride and resilience, inspiring others within these communities to find strength in their own stories.

Bicultural poetry not only heals and empowers but also forges new paths for marginalized voices to be seen and heard. This form of poetry creates visibility for experiences often ignored by mainstream narratives, offering a stage for voices that might otherwise remain unheard. By addressing issues such as racism, assimilation, and cultural erasure, bicultural poetry sheds light on societal inequities and fosters understanding across cultural lines. The resulting visibility does more than raise awareness; it invites solidarity and empathy, inspiring audiences from all backgrounds to value and support the richness of diverse perspectives.

Jarrelle （杰遨）

The Healthiest Takeout Orders for Every Type of Cuisine

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When it comes to takeout, we often think convenience means compromising on health—but it doesn’t have to! The Healthiest Takeout Orders for Every Type of Cuisine gives you the inside scoop on how to make healthier choices without sacrificing the flavors you love. Whether you’re craving Chinese, Mexican, Italian, or Indian, each cuisine has tasty, nutrient-packed options that keep you satisfied and energized. From smart substitutions to mindful portion choices, this guide helps you enjoy your favorite dishes guilt-free. Next time you’re ordering out, you’ll know exactly how to choose meals that support your health goals and taste amazing.

What Is Healthy Takeout?

Healthy takeout food focuses on fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients and balanced portions that nourish your body without overloading on calories, salt, or unhealthy fats. Rather than heavily fried or highly processed items, it includes options like lean proteins, whole grains, and an abundance of vegetables, herbs, and spices that bring rich flavors and natural nutrients. Healthy takeout also prioritizes cooking methods like steaming, grilling, or baking over deep-frying and often limits added sugars or creamy sauces. By choosing lighter ingredients and opting for smaller portions or shared dishes, healthy takeout becomes a way to enjoy a convenient meal that aligns with wellness goals.

Healthy Takeout

  • Sushi Rolls – Opt for rolls with lean fish (like tuna or salmon), lots of veggies, and brown rice if available. Avoid heavy sauces and fried rolls.
  • Miso Soup – A light, nutrient-packed starter with a rich, savory flavor, full of probiotics and low in calories.
  • Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup) – Choose a veggie or lean protein option (like chicken or tofu) and load up on fresh herbs and veggies for extra nutrients.
  • Stir-Fried Vegetables with Tofu or Chicken – Request light sauce or sauce on the side to reduce added sodium and sugar.
  • Buddha’s Delight (Mixed Vegetables) – This traditional Chinese dish is packed with a variety of vegetables and often features tofu, making it a nutrient-dense choice.
  • Steamed Dumplings – Select veggie or shrimp dumplings and avoid fried versions to cut down on calories and fats.
  • Sashimi – For a low-carb, high-protein option, try a sashimi platter that gives you lean fish without added carbs or sauces.
  • Thai Green Papaya Salad (Som Tum) – This refreshing salad is packed with fresh vegetables and a bit of spice, offering a low-calorie, nutrient-dense option.
  • Edamame – A high-protein, low-fat snack that’s simple, satisfying, and loaded with fiber.
  • Seaweed Salad – A mineral-rich and low-calorie side packed with fiber and antioxidants.

Choosing fresh and light takeout options lets you enjoy the rich flavors of Asian cuisine while nourishing your body with balanced, wholesome ingredients. Meals like sashimi, steamed dumplings, and veggie-packed stir-fries provide protein, fiber, and essential nutrients without the heaviness of overly processed or fried foods. By selecting dishes loaded with fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and nutrient-dense ingredients, you’re giving your body what it needs to feel energized and satisfied. Embracing these healthier cultural dishes makes takeout a convenient, enjoyable, and health-conscious choice.

Reference:https://www.health.com/food/healthy-takeout

US and China – Cultural and Political Differences

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The political systems of China and the United States are deeply influenced by their distinct cultural backgrounds and historical developments. China’s collectivist culture, shaped by Confucian values, places a strong emphasis on social harmony and prioritizes the needs of the group over individual rights. This cultural mindset supports the one-party system led by the Chinese Communist Party, which focuses on long-term stability and unified goals. In contrast, the United States, with its roots in democratic ideals, values individual freedom and self-reliance. Its political system, characterized by the separation of powers and a two-party system, encourages debate, competition, and the protection of personal liberties.

These cultural foundations have a significant impact on decision-making, authority, and conflict resolution in both countries. In China, decisions are typically made with an eye toward maintaining collective interests and social stability. Authority is respected and often deferred to, reflecting a preference for long-term planning. In the United States, decision-making tends to prioritize individual rights and short-term public needs. Democratic participation and personal involvement are highly valued, and competition and debate are seen as healthy ways to resolve conflicts and drive progress.

Understanding these cultural differences is crucial for effective international diplomacy. China’s focus on national interests may at times clash with international norms, while the United States emphasizes human rights in its foreign policy approach. Sensitivity to these cultural distinctions can pave the way for better cooperation and help address global challenges. Embracing this diversity can foster mutual respect and strengthen relationships between nations.

Reference: Joel Wong, President NAA United & Board Member, Silicon Valley Community Media

The Time is Now: Uplifting and Celebrating Asian Heritage

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The AAPI (Asian American, Pacific Islander) community has been a crucial part of society for generations, yet its contributions haven’t always gotten the recognition they deserve. From food to fashion, science to social movements, the AAPI community has made lasting impacts that often go unnoticed. Whether it’s the influence of martial arts on global fitness or the rise of K-pop and Bollywood in the entertainment world, the community’s reach is undeniable. Now more than ever, it’s time to shine a light on these accomplishments and give the AAPI community the visibility it’s earned.

When we talk about celebrating AAPI culture, we’re talking about a world of diverse traditions, languages, and histories. Whether it’s the vibrant festivals like Diwali or Lunar New Year, or the timeless beauty of traditional music and dance from Polynesia to Japan, there’s so much to discover, learn, and enjoy. From the artistry of Hawaiian hula to the craftsmanship of Indonesian batik, AAPI cultures enrich every corner of life. This isn’t just about appreciating what’s different—it’s about understanding how cultural elements have shaped and continue to shape our shared world in meaningful ways.

The APPI community is stepping boldly into the spotlight, especially through its growing influence in global culture. Asian traditions and stories are being embraced in ways we haven’t seen before, from the rise of Asian-inspired fashion to the increasing popularity of Asian cuisine worldwide. Groundbreaking films like Everything Everywhere All at Once and shows like Pachinko are helping bring Asian narratives to the forefront, showcasing the depth and diversity of Asian culture. But this is just the beginning. Celebrating APPI heritage means not only recognizing these cultural contributions but creating even more space for these traditions to thrive and inspire future generations. Now is the time to uplift and celebrate the richness of Asian culture in all its forms.

Jarrelle (杰遨）

Historical and Contemporary BIPOC Artists

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BIPOC artists have long been at the forefront of shaping culture, activism, and the art world, using their creative voices to challenge societal norms and inspire change. Figures like Romare Bearden, known for his vibrant depictions of African American life, and Ai Weiwei, whose bold political statements continue to spark conversations globally, have paved the way for countless artists of color. Their works transcend individual experiences, reflecting the broader struggles and triumphs of their communities. By celebrating these past and present creatives, we acknowledge not only their contributions to art but also their resilience in the face of systemic oppression.

Photo Credit: Bisa Butler

Today’s BIPOC artists continue to push boundaries and redefine the role of art in society. Kerry James Marshall’s exploration of Black identity and history, along with Wangechi Mutu’s striking representations of African heritage, offer powerful commentary on race, gender, and belonging. Emerging voices like Bisa Butler bring new dimensions to traditional storytelling through her vibrant quilts, blending history, culture, and identity into powerful visual narratives. These artists use their mediums to confront mainstream narratives, reclaim space for marginalized voices, and assert their place within the larger cultural dialogue. Their work speaks not only to personal experiences but to broader social movements, calling for justice and recognition.

Photo Credit: Ai Wei Wei

In celebrating and supporting BIPOC artists, we foster a more inclusive and vibrant artistic landscape. Art, after all, is not just a medium for self-expression; it is a tool for transformation, bridging cultures, and amplifying voices that have long been silenced. By honoring the legacies of past trailblazers and uplifting contemporary creators, we ensure that the stories, struggles, and triumphs of BIPOC communities remain part of our cultural fabric. These artists not only inspire us with their creativity but also challenge us to see the world through new perspectives, reminding us of the power of art to spark change and connect us all.

Jarrelle

Full Moon Sabbath of Solidarity

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In the hustle and strain of daily life, especially for those navigating systemic oppression, racial trauma, and the unique pressures of bicultural living, finding peace and grounding can feel elusive. For BIPOC communities, Uposatha days offer a sacred pause, inviting stillness, mindfulness, and discipline as powerful tools for restoration. These observances create a refuge from the chaos, providing an opportunity to reconnect with oneself, heal from within, and foster solidarity through shared spiritual practice.

Buddhist Uposatha days are special occasions on the Buddhist calendar dedicated to deepening one’s spiritual practice. They align with the new moon, full moon, and quarter moon, following the lunar cycle. On these days, lay Buddhists often visit temples to engage in meditation, attend Dharma talks, and offer support to the Sangha (monastic community). Uposatha provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on the Buddha’s teachings and renew one’s commitment to the spiritual path. Many Buddhists choose to observe the Eight Precepts on these days, which are more rigorous than the usual five precepts followed by lay practitioners.

Here are ways Uposatha serves as a refuge:

Creating a Sacred Pause: Observing Uposatha provides an intentional break from daily struggles and stress. By dedicating time to mindfulness, meditation, and reflection, BIPOC practitioners can cultivate inner calm and resilience. The structured practice of observing precepts helps break negative cycles of behavior and encourages more conscious living.

Cultural and Spiritual Autonomy: Uposatha offers an opportunity for BIPOC communities to reclaim spiritual narratives. Many have been historically disconnected from ancestral spiritual traditions. Through Buddhism, individuals can establish a practice of peace that aligns with their values and provides a spiritual haven grounded in self-empowerment and healing.

Healing Trauma through Stillness: The impact of racial injustice and historical trauma often manifests as mental and emotional distress. On Uposatha days, engaging in deep meditation allows the mind to process these experiences, fostering healing and emotional release. By sitting in silence, one can address personal and collective pain, cultivating compassion and understanding.

Building Community Support: Uposatha is often a communal practice. By gathering with fellow practitioners in BIPOC sanghas, there is an opportunity to create safe spaces where healing conversations and support can flourish. This helps break down isolation and builds a network of solidarity, where spiritual growth is nourished by shared experiences and challenges.

A Path to Inner Liberation: Buddhism teaches that true liberation comes from within, beyond external circumstances. By following the Eight Precepts, which encourage simplicity, kindness, and discipline, BIPOC individuals can begin to cultivate an inner freedom that is unshaken by external hardships. The practice of renunciation on Uposatha days can lead to a lighter, more centered way of being.

As we conclude our exploration of Uposatha days and their significance for BIPOC communities, it’s clear that healing unfolds both in the quietude of personal reflection and the collective silence shared with others. These sacred observances create spaces where the noise of everyday struggles fades, allowing individuals and communities alike to find solace and renewal. In embracing both individual and communal silence, we tap into a profound reservoir of peace, fostering not only personal growth but also a deepened sense of solidarity and connection. Through this practice, we discover that true healing arises from the stillness within and the unity forged in shared moments of tranquility.

杰遨 Jarrelle

BUDDHIST MONASTICS AND SOLIDARITY IN BIPOC COMMUNITIES

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Today, I want to shine a light on BIPOC Buddhist monastics. As our world becomes more culturally diverse and accepting, we’re witnessing how the Dharma (the Buddha’s teachings) drives growth and creates spaces for the blossoming of lotuses in diverse communities. BIPOC Buddhist monastics, by embracing their authentic selves, serve as powerful examples of how living in alignment with the Dharma can inspire others to blossom like lotuses. Their presence and practice not only affirm the beauty of diversity within Buddhism but also help pave the way for world peace and the end of racism. By simply being who they are, these monastics challenge and transcend societal barriers, offering a path to healing and unity in a world that deeply needs it.

Asian and Black Buddhist communities have the unique opportunity to come together and create safe spaces for BIPOC cultural healing by drawing on shared values and rich ancient spiritual traditions. By joining forces, we can build bridges between our communities, nurturing mutual respect and understanding while addressing the wounds of historical trauma and racial injustice. These collaborations can serve as sanctuaries where individuals find solace, empowerment, and the strength to heal collectively, which ultimately contributes to a more compassionate and inclusive world.

We all have a role to play in promoting world peace and inclusivity by actively honoring BIPOC stories, history, and culture while empowering BIPOC voices. This begins with listening—truly hearing the experiences and perspectives of BIPOC individuals and communities. It involves educating ourselves and others about the rich histories and contributions of these communities, and challenging the narratives that have historically marginalized them. By uplifting BIPOC voices in our daily lives, workplaces, and social circles, we help create a world where diversity is not just accepted but celebrated. In doing so, we contribute to a more just and peaceful world, where every individual is valued.

杰遨-Jarrelle

和平世界 (HĂŠpĂ­ng ShĂŹjiè) – “A World of Peace”

10 Green Tea Benefits

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Green tea, rich in antioxidants and caffeine, offers several potential health benefits, including alleviating anxiety and stress, enhancing memory, and reducing high blood pressure and cholesterol. Drinking a few glasses of green tea daily can further boost your health, making it a simple yet effective addition to your routine. Available in various forms such as beverages, dietary supplements, and topical ointments, green tea can be easily incorporated into your lifestyle. Keep reading to discover more about its benefits, risks, and how to include it in your diet.

  1. Alleviates Anxiety and Stress
    Green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that helps reduce anxiety and stress, promoting relaxation. However, the amount in tea is lower than in supplements, so consult a healthcare provider before starting high-dose L-theanine supplements.
  2. Helps Protect Against Cognitive Decline
    Drinking green tea may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, thanks to its high antioxidant content that helps prevent cell damage.
  3. Supports Bone Health
    Green tea may reduce the risk of osteoporosis by enhancing bone formation and preventing bone mass loss, making it beneficial for postmenopausal individuals at higher risk.
  4. Improves Longevity
    Green tea’s polyphenols, which act as antioxidants, may have anti-aging effects, such as reducing inflammation, minimizing oxidative stress, and decreasing signs of aging.
  5. Lowers Cholesterol
    Consuming green tea may help lower LDL (“bad”) and total cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
  6. Enhances Memory
    The L-theanine in green tea may improve working memory and brain function, although more research is needed to confirm these effects.
  7. Manages and Prevents Type 2 Diabetes
    Green tea’s antioxidants may help reduce insulin resistance, a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes, making it a potential aid in managing and preventing the condition.
  8. Lowers Stroke Risk
    Moderate daily consumption of green tea may reduce stroke risk by at least 21%, possibly due to lifestyle factors associated with green tea drinkers.
  9. Supports Weight Loss
    Green tea’s catechins may increase metabolic rate and fat breakdown, aiding in weight loss, though its effects are likely minimal without a balanced diet and regular exercise.
  10. Reduces Blood Pressure
    Green tea may lower blood pressure, especially in those at high risk of heart disease, by reducing inflammation and dilating blood vessels to improve blood flow.

With its numerous health benefits, from reducing anxiety and supporting memory to lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, green tea is a simple yet powerful addition to your daily routine. Whether you’re looking to improve your overall well-being or just want a moment of calm in your day, enjoying a glass of green tea can be a refreshing way to support your health. So why not pour yourself a cup and experience the soothing effects of this ancient remedy? Your body and mind will thank you!

Reference:https://www.health.com/nutrition/benefits-green-tea

Bridging Cultures and Spirit

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To be beautiful means to be yourself.You don’t need to be accepted by others. You need to accept yourself. When you are born a lotus flower, be a beautiful lotus flower, don’t try to be a magnolia flower. If you crave acceptance and recognition and try to change yourself to fit what other people want you to be, you will suffer all your life. True happiness and true power lie in understanding yourself, accepting yourself, having confidence in yourself.

Thich Nhat Hanh

The teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh are deeply rooted in mindfulness and compassion, offering profound resonance for our BIPOC communities that are navigating the complexities of bicultural identities. Thay’s concept of ” interbeing”, the understanding that all beings are interconnected, serves as a powerful foundation for embracing and honoring our cultural heritage within spiritual practice. For BIPOC Buddhists, these teachings provide a path to harmonize cultural identity with our spiritual journey, bringing about a sense of wholeness and acceptance. This approach encourages us to find strength in our unique backgrounds, cultivating a deeper understanding of ourselves and others through mindfulness and compassionate action.

The friendship between Thich Nhat Hanh and Martin Luther King Jr sets an example of how love and nonviolence can unite people across cultural and national boundaries in the pursuit of peace. Their shared vision to ending violence and promoting peace during the civil rights movement in the United States had given rise and connected it to the global struggle for world justice. Thich Nhat Hanh’s advocacy for nonviolent resistance and Dr. King’s commitment to civil rights created a powerful alliance that continues to inspire many today. Their partnership demonstrated that peace and social justice are deeply intertwined, and that true liberation can only be achieved through understanding, compassion, and nonviolent action.

The legacy of Thich Nhat Hanh and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is a key part of American BIPOC history, offering wisdom and inspiration for generations. Their work together highlights the power of cross-cultural solidarity in the fight for justice. For BIPOC Buddhists, our legacy isn’t just a historical milestone; it’s a living guide for facing today’s challenges. By embracing Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings, BIPOC communities can draw strength from our roots while working toward a more just and peaceful world, staying true to the vision of these two great leaders.

Jarrelle

Reference: https://plumvillage.org/articles/thich-nhat-hanhs-friendship-with-dr-king

Cultivating Compassion Amidst Struggle

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As BIPOC Buddhists, we navigate a world where systemic racism, oppression, and trauma are daily realities. In the face of such adversity, it’s easy to be consumed by anger, pain, and resentment. But there is a transformative power within us—an ancient, yet ever-relevant practice that can help us rise above the suffering we endure. This power is metta, or loving-kindness. Metta is more than just a feeling; it’s an active force of compassion that we cultivate towards ourselves, our communities, and even those who perpetuate harm. In a society that often devalues our very existence, the practice of metta becomes an act of radical self-care and empowerment.

Metta allows us to confront our pain and the injustices we face with a heart full of compassion rather than bitterness. When we practice loving-kindness, we are not denying the harsh realities of systemic racism or minimizing the trauma that has been inflicted upon us. Instead, we are choosing to approach these challenges with a mindset that seeks healing and connection, rather than division and despair. By sending metta to ourselves, we affirm our own worth and humanity in a world that often seeks to strip us of both. By extending metta to others, even those who oppose us, we break the cycle of hatred and violence, refusing to let it take root in our hearts.

In the BIPOC Buddhist experience, metta serves as a powerful tool for resilience. It empowers us to hold space for our own suffering while also maintaining a sense of hope and possibility for the future. Through the practice of metta, we can transform our pain into a source of strength, our trauma into a wellspring of compassion. In this way, metta becomes not just a personal practice, but a revolutionary act—a way to reclaim our power, heal our communities, and create a world where loving-kindness can thrive in the face of adversity.

“Irrigators channel waters; fletchers straighten arrows; carpenters bend wood; the wise master themselves.” Buddha

Jarrelle (杰遨）