A world full of amazing stories and creative ideas is out there. Recent openings, from ancient enigmas to today’s wonders, enchant our senses. This Short Course dives into all of those exciting topics and more. Learn about the unique Swedish practice of Döstädning, a curious death in California, extraordinary animal adventures, and so much more!
“Döstädning” roughly translated to “death cleaning” in Swedish. This practice helps elders experience peace and meaning by releasing their belongings. This mindset, to declutter your environment, can lead you to become emotionally decluttered. When we face the reality of death, people often describe a tremendous sense of freedom and purpose.
One of the most chilling stories is one from California. It’s centered on a spooky death at an inn in 1892 that still attracts the curious today. The events leading up to the crash have inspired a number of tall tales and urban legends. Guests rush to the hotel, hoping to feel the strange essence and possibly see something otherworldly themselves.
A new chapter in the animal kingdom’s sustainability saga was written. National Geographic Heroic acts aren’t limited to people—and this pregnant hyena fleeing a pack of wild dogs would likely agree. This amazing display of courage illustrates the complex social life of animals. It also upends our very ideas of what these predator-prey relationships look like.
Even in the arts, Bruce Springsteen was able to recently have actor Jeremy Allen White play him on Hulu’s “The Bear” set to Springsteen’s music. The tortured genius musician can now stream his life story from soap opera absurdity to tragedy in real time. This opportunity creates an additional thrilling new chapter in his illustrious career. On top of that, Springsteen reminded fans of his relevance in today’s music by surprising everyone with a guest appearance during a radio call-in with Sam Fender.
Rollercoasters, usually thought of as just amusement parlor rides, are in fact breathtakingly heavy. Engineers keep careful technical control over these structures, too, creating safety while offering the most exciting experiences in the world for riders. These impressive engineering accomplishments play a huge part in the excitement that surrounds these rides.
The Japanese philosophy of Ichigo Ichie encourages you to be present in every moment. It invites you to develop a practice of stillness and attention that extends into your everyday relationships. This idea strikes a chord with millions who are looking for mindfulness in an ever more distracted world.
Kim Kardashian used to walk Madonna’s dog when she was a kid. This rare, intimate experience allows us to go backstage into her world before she was catapulted into fame. After which actress Jennifer Lawrence came forward with an amusing anecdote about feeding Robert Pattinson supper from her garbage. One night, he showed up famished, illustrating a hip playfulness in his circle that kept the Hollywood elite sincere.
In related news, a major tectonic alarm has been raised regarding Åkernes mountain, Norway. Now this proud peak is in danger of crumbling into a beautiful fjord. Asks Keith Schneider This gorgeous geological anomaly deserves vigilant protection against potential catastrophes in that scenic land.
Pangolins, already listed as the most trafficked mammals on Earth, are under threat. They are victims of illegal poaching and habitat destruction. Conservation efforts are working hard to stop this troubling trend and save these remarkable animals.
The Gowanus Canal in New York has undergone the world’s most extreme makeover. Once considered a toxic wasteland, it has transformed into a colorful, bustling, and revitalized community. Restoration work cleanup groups have accomplished significant progress in returning this formerly polluted corridor back to a healthy ecosystem.
Finally, Kazakhstan’s enigmatic stone spheres still have scientists stumped about how they were made and ended up scattered across the steppe. These fascinating historical puzzles tantalize and challenge scholars as they try to piece together their past.