SOMA Living February 2023

LUNAR NEW YEAR COMING TOGETHER DURING LUNAR NEW YEAR For some, the new year rings in when the calendar turns from December 31 to January 1. For many, it happens on Lunar New Year (based on the cycles of the moon). This year, it begins on January 22, as the Chinese Year of the Rabbit: an animal that embodies elegance, peace, and a dash of luck. Lunar New Year is a special time with tons of traditions, each with a special meaning. Cleaning the home represents getting rid of any bad luck from the previous year. Red is also a lucky color to wear, as it represents happiness and good luck. My favorite tradition is getting together with loved ones for the reunion meal, which signifies family unity and togetherness. There are many symbolic dishes such as fish (abundance), sticky rice cake (prosperity), dumplings (wealth), and noodles (longevity). Wishing everyone health, happiness, and prosperity in the new year! Join us next year for the Annual Lunor Fest, NJ organized by SOMA CCW.

A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO PHYSICAL THERAPY Specializing in pelvic health and wellness

Pre-natal and Post-partum Care Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Pelvic Pain Urinary Symptoms Bowel Issues Orthopedic Issues related to Pelvic Health

318 Main Street, Suite 200A | Millburn, NJ 07041 973.671.5855 | Book Online: 5pointpt.com

We are thrilled to announce the next exhibit at The Herb + Milly Iris Gallery. SLADE: A Family Affair is the Gallery’s first father-daughter exhibit and features photographs by Kelvin Slade and oil paintings by Corrine Slade. In celebration of Black History Month, this exhibit portrays the influence that Black music, particularly Jazz, has had on Kelvin and Corrine Slade as artists. The exhibit will be on display from January 26 through March 5, 2023. SOPACnow.org

Ran Wei Baker is a Chinese American living in Maplewood, NJ with her husband, Austin and daughter Lily. She is the founder of Boba Bear Bilingual (www.bobabearbilingual.com), a children’s board book series featuring relatable and engaging learning experiences that make bilingual education fun for both parents and children.

FEBRUARY 2023 | SOMA LIVING 25

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