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Can You Have a Delayed Reaction to Grief?

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Grief typically unfolds through five stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. While it begins with denial and ends with acceptance, the journey is rarely linear. According to San Francisco therapist Dr. Avigail Lev, individuals often move back and forth between stages—shifting from anger to bargaining, returning to depression, and so on. These stages provide a framework for processing loss, confronting emotions, and moving toward healing. However, in delayed grief, denial persists, leaving unresolved feelings that can complicate the path to recovery.

“In delayed grieving, the denial stage lasts longer, meaning the person remains in denial for a more extended period.” â€” Dr. Avigail Lev

Signs and Symptoms of Delayed Grief

Delayed grief varies from person to person, with symptoms that can manifest both emotionally and physically. Signs of delayed grief on an emotional level include:

  • A sense of numbness or detachment
  • Intense emotional reactions in response to things that remind you of the loss
  • Feelings of persistent sadness
  • Intrusive thoughts or memories about your loved one
  • Problem enjoying things that used to bring you pleasure
  • Changes in how you feel about yourself, your purpose, or your identity
  • Feelings of guilt or regret

Physical symptoms of delayed grief can include:

  • Changes in sleep, appetite, or body weight
  • Feeling tired or unmotivated
  • Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, muscle tension, frequent illness, and digestive issues

Self-Care Practices to Support the Grieving Process

If you’re dealing with delayed grief, there are strategies to help you reconnect with your emotions and process them more deeply. Consider trying the following techniques:

  • Journaling: Expressive writing can be a therapeutic way to work through the difficult emotions you are feeling. Consider writing a letter to your loved one or write down your favorite memories of that person.
  • Mindfulness practices: Mindfulness is all about centering your attention on the here and now. It can be a way to connect with what you are feeling and what these feelings mean. Research suggests it can help bereaved people improve emotional regulation and executive function.
  • Stick to a routine: Keeping a regular routine is important when you are dealing with stressful experiences. It can help you maintain a sense of consistency and normalcy, which may help you feel more in control even when things seem hectic or tumultuous.
  • Learn about grief: Spend some time learning about what the normal grieving process looks like, including the stages of grief that people typically experience. It can be comforting to know that what you are experiencing is normal and expected.
  • Honor your loved one: Find meaningful ways to honor the memory of the person you have lost. For example, you might create a memorial or participate in rituals to honor their life.

Healing from grief, especially delayed grief, takes time and patience, but it’s important to know that support and effective treatment options are available. Strategies like grief counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), and expressive arts therapy can help you process your emotions, reconnect with your feelings, and navigate your journey toward acceptance. Whether through talking, mindfulness, creative expression, or structured therapeutic approaches, these options provide valuable tools to address your grief and move forward with greater clarity and resilience.

Reference: https://www.verywellmind.com/can-you-have-a-delayed-reaction-to-grief-8425426

Marijuana and Lung Health

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Marijuana is the most commonly abused drug, with its health effects largely determined by how it’s consumed. It can be smoked using pipes, bongs, joints, blunts, and vaporizers or consumed through products like e-cigarettes, candy, brownies, beverages, and capsules. While this discussion centers on marijuana and lung health, it’s crucial to recognize other health concerns, such as neurological and cognitive effects, as well as public health issues like accidental pediatric poisonings from edible marijuana products. Smoke from marijuana combustion contains many of the same toxins, irritants, and carcinogens as tobacco smoke, posing potential harm to lung health. Although marijuana smoke is less carcinogenic than tobacco smoke, its toxins may still pose risks, particularly to vulnerable populations like children. More research is needed to fully understand the effects of secondhand marijuana smoke.

Key Facts on Lung Health and Marijuana Smoke

  1. Impact on Lung Health: Smoking marijuana damages the lungs, causing chronic bronchitis, injuring airway cell linings, and leading to chronic cough, phlegm production, wheeze, and acute bronchitis.
  2. Air Pocket and Air Bubble Risks: Heavy marijuana smoking has been linked to air pockets between the lungs and chest wall, as well as large air bubbles in the lungs, especially among young to middle-aged adults.
  3. Immune System Effects: Smoking marijuana suppresses the immune system, impairing the body’s ability to fight infections and potentially increasing the risk of lower respiratory tract infections.
  4. Defense Mechanisms: It reduces the lungs’ ability to defend against infections by killing cells that remove dust and germs and increasing mucus production.
  5. Radiographic Findings: Marijuana-only smokers exhibit greater airway thickening, inflammation, and emphysema compared to both nonsmokers and tobacco-only smokers.
  6. Opportunistic Infections: Marijuana smoking may heighten the risk of opportunistic infections and transmission of viral infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV.
  7. Aspergillus Mold Exposure: Marijuana can harbor Aspergillus mold, which may cause lung disorders when smoked, though it rarely affects healthy individuals.
  8. Vaping and “Dabbing” Concerns: Limited research suggests that inhaling marijuana via vape pens or dabbing cannabis concentrates could pose similar respiratory health risks as e-cigarette use.

In light of the significant respiratory and immune system risks associated with smoking and inhaling marijuana, it’s essential to approach its use with caution, particularly for those with pre-existing health conditions or compromised immune systems. The damage to lung health, increased vulnerability to infections, and potential exposure to harmful molds underscore the need for further research and public awareness. As methods of consumption like vaping and dabbing grow in popularity, understanding their long-term effects becomes increasingly critical. Prioritizing health and making informed choices about marijuana use can help mitigate these risks and protect overall well-being.

Reference: https://www.lung.org/quit-smoking/smoking-facts/health-effects/marijuana-and-lung-health

Healing Through Heritage: How BIPOC Creators are Reclaiming Ancestral Narratives

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Art has always been a lifeline for BIPOC creators—a way to reach back across time and reclaim the stories of our ancestors, stories often erased or distorted by colonization and oppression. For many, creating is not just about making something beautiful; it’s a way of finding their place in a lineage, exploring questions of identity, displacement, and belonging. Each brushstroke, verse, or frame becomes a thread in the larger tapestry of our heritage, woven anew for a modern world. This process is deeply personal, a journey of healing and reconnection that carries their roots forward into the future.

We see this vividly in the work of filmmakers like Ava DuVernay and Taika Waititi, who use their art to challenge mainstream narratives and center the voices of their communities. Their films are more than stories—they are acts of cultural preservation and defiance. Similarly, visual artists turn to the symbols and practices of their ancestors, using them to honor their lineage while creating something entirely new. Musicians, too, are keeping traditions alive, blending traditional rhythms and languages with contemporary sounds to craft music that feels both timeless and revolutionary. Their work bridges the gap between past and present, a testament to the resilience and creativity of cultures.

But this creative reclamation isn’t just about preserving the past—it’s about shaping the future. By sharing our heritage through art, we empower our communities, especially younger generations, to see the beauty and strength in their identities. They remind us all that culture isn’t something static or stuck in history—it’s a living, breathing force. It evolves, expands, and takes on new life through the hands of those who dare to remember and reimagine it. Through their work, these creators aren’t just keeping traditions alive—they’re making space for the next chapter to be written.

Jarrelle Barton (杰遨- Jieao)

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 link between food and mental health

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Can what you eat impact your mental health? Increasing research suggests it just might. Research increasingly scrutinizes Western-style diets for their potential impact on mental health. A meta-analysis of studies from 10 countries, conducted by researchers at Linyi People’s Hospital in China, suggests a link between dietary patterns and depression. Similarly, a study led by Felice Jacka, PhD, from Deakin University in Australia, found a connection between diet and hippocampal volume in older adults. In children, consuming fast food, sugar, and soft drinks was associated with a higher prevalence of ADHD, as per research led by Maria Izquierdo-Pulido, PhD, of the University of Barcelona. Children with lower vegetable, fruit, and fatty fish intake showed more ADHD symptoms, even when controlling for other factors. Though these studies don’t prove causality, they suggest diet could influence ADHD through unknown mechanisms. Furthermore, small dietary changes can significantly improve mental health. Jacka’s study found that depressed adults who received nutritional counseling and adjusted their diets saw higher remission rates compared to those receiving social support. These findings contribute to the growing field of nutritional psychology, which examines the role of diet in the development and treatment of mental health disorders. Despite calls for more rigorous research, the evidence hints at the potential for new dietary-based prevention and treatment strategies for various psychological conditions.

In the 1990s, psychologist Bonnie J. Kaplan, PhD, was initially skeptical of claims that multinutrients could treat ADHD. After seeing data showing improvements in children who took supplements, she shifted her focus to nutritional psychology. Now a professor emerita at the University of Calgary, Kaplan has studied a multinutrient formula designed to address brain nutrient deficiencies. Her research has found promising results in improving emotional control, treating behavioral issues in children, and reducing distress after disasters. Studies show micronutrients improve overall functioning, as seen in a trial led by Julia J. Rucklidge, PhD, where ADHD patients who took supplements reported better functioning and mood improvements compared to a placebo group. Despite mixed results in ADHD symptom measures, Kaplan and Rucklidge stress the importance of overall functional gains.

The growing body of research in nutritional psychology shows that what we eat plays a crucial role in our mental well-being, not just our physical health. Studies like those led by Bonnie J. Kaplan and Julia J. Rucklidge reveal how even small dietary changes, such as incorporating more nutrient-rich foods, can lead to improvements in mood, emotional control, and overall functioning. While more research is needed, the evidence suggests that nourishing your body with a balanced diet can be a powerful tool in supporting both your mental and physical health. So, consider making mindful choices at mealtime—not just for your body, but for your mind as well.

Reference:https://www.apa.org/monitor/2017/09/food-mental-health

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

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）