Feeling the late-February blues? In this episode of The Ritual of Reading Podcast, we embrace the anticipation of spring with books, flowers, and small daily rituals to brighten the lingering winter days. I share my experiences with gardening in small spaces and review Elizabeth and Her German Garden by Elizabeth von Arnim—a timeless reflection on the joys of cultivating beauty.

You'll also get an art book recommendation focused on floral arrangements, a podcast suggestion for fellow garden lovers, and a peek at my list of annuals I’m sowing this season. Whether you're longing for warmer days or looking for ways to invite spring into your daily life, this episode is filled with inspiration to carry you through. 🌿📖✨

Listen now and let’s welcome spring together!

My Confessions on Gardening Begginings : https://theritualofreading.com/how-to-garden-in-the-city-books-and-confessions-of-my-journey-back-to-nature/

The Blog Post of this episode, if you wish to see the images of my floral selection :

In this episode ofThe Ritual of Reading Podcast, we embark on a captivating journey through two remarkable books:24 Hours in Ancient China by Yijie Zhuang andThe Girl Who Played Go by Shan Sa. Join your host, Alexandra Poppy, as she immerses you in the rich tapestry of ancient China and the poignant drama of 20th-century conflict. Through Zhuang's vivid storytelling, we travel back to a day in the life of ancient Chinese society, while Shan Sa’s elegant prose takes us to the complex world of a young girl caught in the throes of war and fate. As we explore these literary worlds, we also indulge in the flavors of a Chinese shrimp and bok choy stir-fry, savoring the delicate balance of sweet, salty, and mustardy. Soft Chinese music accompanies this episode, creating the perfect ambiance to bring the reviews and flavors to life. Let the ritual of reading and taste begin!

Official Website : https://theritualofreading.com/

YouTube Channel : https://www.youtube.com/@TheRitualofReading

In this enlightening episode of The Ritual of Reading Podcast, we delve into the profound worlds of literature and ancient practices. First, we explore Gao Xingjian's Soul Mountain, a novel that blends the personal with the philosophical, as the narrator embarks on a journey through the Chinese wilderness and the depths of self-discovery.

Next, we shift to Pearl Buck's The Good Earth, a tale of survival, resilience, and the deep connection to the land. We reflect on Buck's portrayal of rural China and the compelling, timeless story of Wang Lung’s rise and fall. The discussion dives into the nuances of cultural representation, the struggles of tradition versus change, and the moral undercurrents of the novel.

Lastly, the episode takes a more personal turn with a reflective segment on the ancient practice of QiGong. What makes QiGong more than just a physical practice? How does it connect to the mind, body, and spirit in profound ways? We share personal experiences, offering insights into how this practice can influence creativity, mental clarity, and overall well-being.

Join us for a thought-provoking episode filled with literary reflection and an exploration of a transformative practice!

Recommendations of Free QiGong practices :

Katie Brindle's YouTube channel (podcast and free classes in the playlists)

Lee Holden QiGong

ShiBaShi practice with Vivien Chao

In this special episode of The Ritual of Reading Podcast, we celebrate the vibrant traditions of Chinese New Year through a blend of literature, poetry, and tea. First, we dive into the novel Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress by Dai Sijie, reflecting on its themes of forbidden love, the power of literature, and the coming-of-age journey set against the backdrop of China’s Cultural Revolution. The episode also revisits J.M.G. Le Clézio’s Tang Poetry anthology, exploring the timeless beauty of Chinese poetry that has influenced generations across the world.

To top off the celebration, we take you on a sensory journey with a tea tasting of organic Bai Mu Dan white tea. We discuss its delicate flavor profile, the process behind its production, and how it connects to the calm, contemplative moments often found in both literature and tradition. This episode blends the art of storytelling with the rich customs of Chinese culture, offering a serene yet deeply reflective experience to mark the start of the Lunar New Year.