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“What Drug Are You On?” — My Accidental Journey with Ashwagandha

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---- Disclaimer: This article is based entirely on my personal experience. I’m not a doctor, and this isn’t medical advice. I’m sharing what happened to me in the hope it helps someone discover something useful — but always talk to a healthcare professional before taking health advice from anyone on the internet. ---- One time after sparring, an opponent looked at me and said: “Johnny, you’re strong, you’re fast, and you don’t even diet. What the hell kind of drug are you taking?” I laughed. At the time, the honest answer was: none. Years later though? I finally had something I could’ve pointed to — not a steroid, not a stimulant… but a root. Ashwagandha. And I didn’t even start taking it for performance. Image: Johnny skillfully grapples larger-built Gus, showcasing dynamic wrestling technique. Johnny's red and black attire contrasts with Gus's casual look during their intense training session. [ ] 🌿  What Is Ashwagandha? Ashwagandha (Withan...

When Mythology Turns Into Monster Cuisine

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This video dives headfirst into one of the strangest, funniest corners of mythology: What happens when monsters aren’t just enemies… but menu items? We’re talking about the legendary Chinese text Shan Hai Jing (山海經) — The Classic of Mountains and Seas, a 2,000-year-old collection of geography, folklore, strange lands, gods, and an absolutely unhinged number of creatures. Some are terrifying. Some are bizarre. And a surprising number come with notes that basically say: “If you eat this, something happens.” It’s like an ancient fantasy bestiary crossed with a supernatural health guide. 📖 The  Shan Hai Jing : Myth, Map… and Monster Nutrition? This classic doesn’t just describe where mountains and rivers are. It catalogs hybrid beasts, spirit animals, and divine oddities — and often includes the effects of consuming them. To ancient mythmakers, creatures weren’t just dangers. They were sources of power, medicine, protection, and transformation. Bas...