It may seem a bit unusual for me to cover this topic from my current perch in Thailand, where winter's chill is more of a whimsical concept than a seasonal reality. After all, my own winters spent in the Netherlands were anything but mild; I vividly remember the biting cold, freezing winds and the gloomy skies that seemed to stretch endlessly. As I reflect on those long winters, I recognise a familiar pattern: once the festive decorations are carefully packed away and family members have returned to their own lives, many of us are left grappling with the unwelcome spectre of the Winter Blues.
Articles by Paul Horstermans
Articles by Paul Horstermans
Watercress – The Untouched Superfood
13 November 2024
I don't know about you, but I've been enjoying Watercress for many years now, and let me tell you, this incredible vegetable has found a permanent place in our kitchen! In Thailand they call it ‘Pat Naam’, which translates to ‘Water Vegetable.’ It’s a staple at my local fresh foods market, always readily available and remarkably affordable. It's almost too good to be true, but then I stumbled upon a fascinating claim: a source I encountered proclaimed Watercress to be the world's healthiest vegetable.
Tai Chi & Qi Gong – Holistic Healing
12 November 2024
Each Sunday, I eagerly anticipate my visit to the city’s newly unveiled public park, a vibrant oasis that offers a wealth of activities for visitors. Here, one can indulge in a relaxing massage, feed colourful fish in serene ponds, or capture stunning photographs of exotic flowers in bloom. The allure of savouring a spicy papaya salad while soaking in the lively atmosphere is simply irresistible.
Shamanism - One of the World’s Oldest Spiritual Practices
8 November 2024
Ever since I first heard Jim Morrison speak and sing about Shamanism, I have been entranced by this ancient spiritual practice. His passionate words about connecting with the natural world, digging deep into the depths of the subconscious mind, and channelling the energy of the universe resonated deeply with me. Jim Morrison fearlessly embraced shamanism in his lyrics, vividly portraying altered states of awareness and making explicit connections to shamans and ancient indigenous spirituality.
Fermented Foods For The Human Body
7 November 2024
I recall living in the Southern part of the Netherlands, a mere 4 miles away from the German border. I still clearly remember embarking on regular trips to the nearest German town purchasing their famous Sauerkraut. The tangy delight of this fermented cabbage dish was a staple in our household. Fast forward to my current residence in Thailand, and my taste buds have been enchanted by the spicy allure of Korean Kimchi.