The Mindful Word

Tag Archives: passive solar

green building February 15, 2012

EARTHSHIP HOMES: A blueprint for the green life

They say home is where the heart is, but let’s face it, from an environmental perspective, home is where the waste is. Indeed, there’s something terribly wrong…

SUSTAINABLE SANCTUARY: Living off-grid and in tune with nature

“We live just like the white folks,” permaculturist Arvo Thomson comically replies, when I ask if he has enough power in his off-grid…

PASSION FOR PASSIVE SOLAR: The DIY home building experience

As lifelong activists, my partner and I have always been uncomfortable using nuclear-generated electricity. When we decided to move a few years ago, our…

HOLY: A prose poem by Max Reif

The word Holy had lost its way. It was speaking on a soapbox in the park. People passed by, oblivious. A few stopped to gawk or jeer. Only one little boy stood listening, enrapt…

essays May 11, 2012

MY DENNY’S “AMERICANA” ADVENTURE: Two essays by Max Reif

Americans know Denny’s, the chain of so-so diners that in many areas are the only places to go after a night of carousing or, conversely, upon very early rising, as the only places open all night…

nutrition April 26, 2012

GHEE: A healthier alternative to butter (with ghee recipe)

To Ghee or not to ghee: Clarified butter - a healthier alternative

To some it’s known as clarified butter, to others the golden elixir of healing—ghee is a staple ingredient in Indian cooking and Ayurvedic healing known for its versatility, great taste, and many…

transformative travel April 25, 2012

BANGALORE: One foot dangling in the future, one hoof rooted in the past

Sadar Patrappa Road is commonly abbreviated to S.P. Road, nice and short for those wanting to save some time saying the extra syllables. This is Bangalore after all—the hub of India’s fast-paced…