Editor’s Letter

EDITOR’S LETTER SPIRITED AWAY

I’ve noticed that there’s been a revival in recent years of things that fall comfortably under the category of “New Age.” Crystals, tarot cards, astrology (why does Mercury seem like it’s perpetually in retrograde?) - I’ve dabbled in all of these to some extent, and it’s largely because they’ve become quite mainstream (as far as offbeat preoccupations are concerned, that is.) Why that is could be anyone’s guess, but most people I’ve discussed it with seem to think it has to do with the state of the world we’re in today. Uncertainty and no small degree of volatility could very well be leading us to seek out comfort where we can, whether that’s an extra glass of wine, throwing yourself into the art of sourdough, or embracing some unorthodox form of spirituality.

If you’re the type that’s inclined to the latter, you might be interested to know that shamanism is making its way back into modern consciousness, via a new generation of passionate and spiritually committed practitioners. Known as energy healers and conduits to the spirit world, shamans and their practices have existed for thousands and thousands of years, and while it’s tempting to think of them as jungle vine-wielding witch doctors in the heart of the Amazon, you can actually find some right here in Hong Kong! We meet them in our cover feature over on p.20.

Speaking of sourdough baking and other adventures in self-improvement, are you in need of a new project or hobby? All the extra time on your hands this summer could be just the excuse you need to pick up a pastime, so we’ve rounded up the most interesting classes for adults we can find on p.26.

You can also discover all the dairy-free ice creams available in Hong Kong (all made locally!) on p.12 as well affordable options for kids’ summer camps on p.36. And if it’s a bargain you’re after, check out the latest staycation deals from HK hotels over on p.34.

Whatever your comfort in life is these days, from burning cals at the gym to burning sage in your bedroom, I applaud you for looking out for you. However you see fit.

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS

Zoe Belhomme gets thrifty with super affordable summer camps for kids (all under $200!) on p.36.

Kate Springer checks in and checks out the hottest staycation deals in town on p.34.

No moo’s is good moo’s! Sarah Fung ditches dairy with locally made, vegan ice cream treats on p.12.

Summer school is cool again, as Cynthia Lin finds with adult-friendly summer classes on p.26.

Jo Robinson discovers her inner sea turtle with a shaman healing experience on p.20.

CARLA THOMAS

EDITOR

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PUBLISHER SARAH FUNG DIRECTOR OF PARTNERSHIPS JO ROBINSON SENIOR SALES MANAGER ANSHU RIJHWANI DIGITAL & PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER TERRY HU EDITOR CARLA THOMAS WRITER ZOE BELHOMME EDITORIAL ASSISTANT CYNTHIA LIN SOCIAL MEDIA STACEY MARCELO ADMINISTRATOR JASMIN BLUNCK GRAPHIC DESIGN TAMMY TAN CONTRIBUTORS KATE SPRINGER, JO ROBINSON PRINTED BY GEAR PRINTING LIMITED, ROOM B, 3/F, DERRICK INDUSTRIAL BUILDING, 49-51 WONG CHUK HANG ROAD, ABERDEEN

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