Society

Chinese thought around the energy that sets the world in motion refers to tao (or, dao)—eternal, constant, and impossible to describe. Indigenous inhabitants of Polynesia believe in mana, a power bestowed on all creatures and things. It’s worth considering how many of these ideas have penetrated our Western thinking and in what form. Aleksandra Woźniak-Marchewka

Our eternally pessimistic correspondent gives his historical highlights for the month of June. Adam Węgłowski

Being afraid of environmental threats is an essential aspect of humans’ genetic inheritance—without it, we might not be alive. Adam Zbyryt

From Kenya to Peru, India to Korea, sunrise brings with it different kinds of beginnings—across rainforests, beaches, and metropolises. Paulina Wilk

The countries of Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia all show a keen sense of environmentalism, as well as a forward-thinking attitude. Maciej Wesołowski

Whether climbing small cliff faces or scaling tall peaks, being among boulders and stones is a truly life-affirming activity. Andrzej Muszyński

Claudia Hammond, a British author and radio broadcaster, discusses how altruism exists cross-culturally and how kindness affects the brain. Paulina Wilk

From the pre-Christian era to today, the Baltic state has a proud—and revolutionary—history and tradition of song. Ula Idzikowska

The circular geometric configurations most commonly associated with Eastern religions can also be used to regenerate and restore life balance. Agnieszka Rostkowska

For thousands of years, the Earth’s sole lunar body has helped humanity understand health and nature, as well as contributing to religious beliefs and the arts. Enis Yucekoralp

Vedic Art workshops can help unlock one’s creative potential—and also reveal insights about one’s emotions, needs, and desires. Aleksandra Woźniak-Marchewka

In his teachings and religious leadership, Jonathan Sacks emphasized the strength that comes from community and feeling grateful. Agnieszka Drotkiewicz

Their centuries-old trunks and green crowns are not only witnesses of history, but also its characters, both protecting and creating stories. Michał Książek

Non-traditional teaching approaches that integrate serendipity and social emotional learning can greatly aid the development of children in the classroom. Maria Hawranek

A daily dose of yoga, sun, or laughter—or even all three together—can do wonders for body and mind. Przekrój 

Receiving a warm embrace stimulates the release of oxytocin and decreases cortisol levels, leading to less stress and anxiety. Berenika Steinberg

From cosmogonic myths to medieval cooking books, butter, cheese, and milk have played an important role in the everyday lives of humans across the globe. Łukasz Modelski