The article discusses the cultural significance, preparation, and health benefits of yerba mate, a traditional South American drink particularly popular in Argentina. Yerba mate is not just a beverage but a symbol of Argentine identity and is consumed daily by people from all walks of life, including Pope Francis and Lionel Messi. The drink is made from the leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant and requires a special vessel and straw for consumption. The article delves into the history of yerba mate, its social aspects, and its role in Argentine independence. It also covers the health benefits of yerba mate, which include a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The drink is linked to various health benefits, such as weight loss, diabetes management, and potentially lower cancer rates. The article also compares yerba mate to coffee and green tea, highlighting its unique properties and health advantages. It concludes with advice on how to start drinking mate and where to find it.

Arundhati Roy, celebrated for her bestselling novel 'The God of Small Things' and winner of the 1997 Booker Prize, reflects on her unexpected literary success and her unique journey from growing up in Kerala, India, to becoming a renowned author. Despite her whirlwind book tour and the probing questions about her private life, Roy remains dedicated to her craft, emphasizing her love for storytelling and her desire to evoke the world through her writing rather than just her own feelings. With no future plans set in stone, Roy lives in the moment, continuing to challenge societal norms and express her thoughts through her distinct literary style.

The article discusses the Hare Krishna movement and its resurgence in the 1990s through 'krishna-core,' a genre of music that blends the spiritual messages of Krishna Consciousness with the 'straight-edge' punk scene. The movement, known formally as ISKON (International Society of Krishna Consciousness), faced financial difficulties leading to the closure of Boulder's only Hare Krishna temple. The article profiles individuals such as Madan Gopal and Pat Swanson, who were drawn into the movement through music and eventually became full-time devotees. It also touches on the history of ISKON, its practices, and the controversies it has faced, including allegations of abuse and the legal troubles of some of its leaders. The piece concludes with a note on the current state of ISKON, its shift in recruitment practices, and the settlement reached with abused children in 2005.