Ila Bonczek

Plastics are not only an environmental disaster; these man-made conveniences introduced a century ago are also harming our physical and mental health. Phthalates — chemical compounds used to make plastic more flexible and durable —...

Like a great sage, an owl sits stock-still, seeing everything, but saying nothing. When she takes action, it is swift and precise. These bold characteristics have earned the owl both respect and fear among humans;...

What is a nutty fruit — shaped like a bat — that’s both auspicious and delicious? It’s a water caltrop (菱角, ling jiao), and it means different things to different folks. Some can’t get enough...

Arguments are uncomfortable for many people — so much so that we may go out of our way to avoid certain topics; but there are times when an argument is necessary, and, if approached correctly,...

While many of us are familiar with mesquite as a distinct barbeque flavor, or the charcoal that lends such a flavor, the mesquite tree has much more to offer. Called everything from the “tree of...

Even the healthiest eaters enjoy something sweet now and then. This recipe was inspired by a wish to make a Swedish favorite into something suitable for restricted diets. Neither a candy nor a cookie, chocobites...

Bamboo has been used in its native China for around 7,000 years. While China is still the leading producer, bamboo can be found in every corner of the globe, with international uses ranging from building...

Although winter is still a ways off, now is the time to start preparing your plants for either transition, or surviving whatever nature has to offer. Many tender perennials can be brought in as houseplants...

Often linked with depression, loneliness is a psychological state that impacts physical health and may even lead to premature death — and it is more widespread than one might imagine. One Cigna survey of 10,000...

Do you have an inner control freak? Most of us have the wish to control more in life than is possible. While the intent of our desire for control is to achieve comfort, happiness or...

Do you sometimes find yourself rubbing your sore feet? Hey, guess what — you’re onto something! Reflexology is an ancient massage practice based on the understanding that the whole body is connected, be it by...

Mooncakes are a traditional Chinese dessert served during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Topped with elaborate patterns, these rich pastries are exchanged as gifts while families reunite for the holiday. Traditional mooncakes made with quality ingredients can...