Wellness News
Reporting, analysis, and commentary on wellness from Breeze in Busan.
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How Asia is Battling Dementia
In "Picnic (2024)," a poignant Korean film, a group of elderly friends embarks on a simple outing to a scenic park—a ritual that should be filled with joy and nostalgia. Yet, as they wander through the lush greenery, the cracks in their memories begin to show. The camera lingers on Na Moon-hee’s character as she struggles to recall the names of those she has known for decades. The once vibrant conversations fade into uncomfortable silences, and what begins as a carefree day in the sun becomes a
13 min read
How Selective Isolation is Redefining Personal Growth
On a brisk autumn morning in Seoul, Minju Kim carefully zipped up her suitcase. The small studio apartment she was leaving behind, nestled in a bustling neighborhood filled with cafes and convenience stores, had once been her sanctuary—an oasis amid the frenetic pace of city life. But as she stood by the door, ready to step out, Minju felt a mix of relief and apprehension. This wasn’t a move prompted by a new job or a relationship, but by a growing sense that the life she had been living—immerse
13 min read
Makgeolli With Modern Health Benefits for Your Gut
The importance of the gut microbiome has become a central focus in contemporary medical and nutritional research. The gut microbiome, comprising trillions of microorganisms, plays a critical role in digestion, immune function, and even mental health. In this context, Makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine, stands out not only for its cultural significance but also for its unique health benefits, particularly in promoting a healthy gut microbiome. Unlike many other alcoholic beverages, Makgeol
2 min read
Stress: The Invisible Epidemic Leaking Through Skin
Imagine you're in a crowded room, feeling relatively calm, when suddenly, you start to feel an inexplicable sense of anxiety. You glance around and notice others seem tense too. Could their stress be affecting you? Increasingly, scientists argue that stress is not just an internal battle but a contagious condition that can spread through subtle cues like skin signals. This pervasive influence of stress doesn't just stop at psychological discomfort; it can manifest physically, leading to issues s
4 min read
U.S. Healthcare Affordability Crisis: A Deepening Issue
The U.S. healthcare system is facing a significant affordability crisis that impacts a wide range of demographics, from low-income families to middle-class and high-income households. Recent data and analyses highlight the growing challenges Americans face in accessing and affording healthcare services, underscoring a critical issue that demands urgent policy attention. Healthcare costs in the United States are on a relentless upward trajectory, with national health expenditures projected to re
2 min read
Post-COVID-19 Surge in Wellness Tourism: South Korea Adapts to the New Normal
SEOUL - The rise of the COVID-19 pandemic has not only transformed how we live but also influenced our choices when it comes to travel. In South Korea, a notable trend emerges: the sharp increase in wellness tourism. Triggered by the widespread feelings of social isolation and melancholy during the pandemic, there's been a significant shift towards destinations that offer healing for both the body and mind. Wellness, a concept that intertwines well-being, happiness, and fitness, has seen a rene
2 min read
How Religion Shaped the Transformation of Busan after the Korean War
The Korean War, which lasted from 1950 to 1953, had a profound impact on the city of Busan. As the provisional capital of South Korea during the war, Busan became a crucial center for military operations and a refuge for millions of displaced individuals. The city endured extensive destruction and witnessed the devastating consequences of war firsthand. However, the aftermath of the war brought forth a new set of challenges for Busan, including physical reconstruction, economic recovery, and the
16 min read
The Dark Side of Manipulation: The Disturbing Trend of Indirect Murder and Its Impact on Society
In recent years, a disturbing criminal trend has emerged, where hitmen are not physically killing their targets but, instead, psychologically manipulating them into taking their own lives. These sinister acts, often referred to as "indirect murder" or "assisted suicide," highlight the dark side of manipulation and showcase the profound consequences of psychological pressure on individuals and society as a whole. The perpetrators of these heinous crimes employ various methods to push their victi
2 min read
Expanding the Successful "1,000 Won Breakfast" Program to Benefit the Wider Public
South Korea's "1,000 Won Breakfast" program, initially aimed at college students to combat breakfast malnutrition by providing affordable, quality meals, has proven to be a resounding success. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs recently announced plans to double the program's size, extending its reach to 1.5 million people. With such positive results, it's time to consider expanding this initiative to benefit other vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and single young workers.
2 min read
The Healthful Allure of Makgeolli
Makgeolli, an ancient and revered Korean alcoholic beverage crafted from rice, has captured the hearts of Koreans for countless generations. Frequently dubbed "Korean rice wine," this cloudy, mildly sweet libation has garnered international attention for its distinctive flavor and cultural value. While makgeolli is predominantly celebrated as a convivial and ceremonial drink, its array of health benefits remains relatively unexplored. In this article, we delve into the lesser-known advantages of
3 min read
Pension Reform Battles in France and South Korea Highlight Complexities and Societal Impact
The ongoing unrest in France following the adoption of controversial pension reforms highlights the complexities and deep societal impact of addressing such issues. Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne bypassed a parliamentary vote by invoking Article 49.3, a constitutional clause that allows the government to pass a bill without parliamentary approval. Although the government narrowly survived a no-confidence vote, opponents of President Emmanuel Macron's pension reforms remain unwavering in their re
1 min read
Korea's Proposed 69-Hour Work Week Exposes Deep-Rooted Issues of Overwork
The South Korean government's controversial proposal to increase the maximum work week from 52 to 69 hours has sparked intense debates over work-life balance, worker's rights, and the issue of overwork or 'kwarosa' – death from overwork. President Yoon Suk Yeol's administration argues that the plan aims to provide greater flexibility for workers and address the country's declining birth rates. However, opposition politicians, labor unions, and women's groups contend that the proposal would exace
2 min read