In the 19th century, the corset was a staple of women’s fashion, shaping the body to societal ideals through tightly woven fabric or leather reinforced with boning made from materials like whalebone, ivory, or wood. The corset’s purpose evolved, sometimes flattening the torso, other times accentuating curves by tightening. This practice, especially prevalent during...
The phrase “basket case” has undergone a significant transformation from its grim origins in World War I to its contemporary usage in everyday language. It went from a literal description of severe war injuries to a metaphor for instability, whether physical or mental and offers a fascinating glimpse into how language evolves in response...
The dialogue surrounding health in South Africa often zeroes in on lifestyle choices as the primary culprits of various health issues. This perspective, while not entirely misguided, overlooks a crucial component of the health equation: the environmental and social determinants that silently sculpt our well-being. Understanding these determinants becomes not only relevant but essential...