We Are All Cut from the Same Cloth, Just Draped Differently: A Fun Look at Global Dos, Taboos, and Some Science Behind Our Everyday Life

There’s a saying I once heard: “People are the same but dressed differently.” Those words have stayed with me, resonating more deeply than I could have imagined. Recently, I uncovered a blend of cultures in my own DNA—Eastern European( yeah, no doubt for sure), Italian (hmm), Indian (maybe), Mongolian( what?), and Viking (surprise!) heritage. What a blend of legacies! Yet, this revelation only underscored what I’ve always known at heart: We are all connected, no matter how varied our experiences or appearances may be. No matter where you’re from, we all share the same basic needs—staying healthy, staying happy, and making it through life’s challenges. But here’s the fun part: how we meet these needs can vary widely depending on where we are. This insight is particularly meaningful in today’s world, where divisions often seem to dominate the conversation. But if we pause and peel back the layers of clothing—be it cultural, societal, or even personal masks—we find the same humanity underneath. In every corner of the world, we chase the same dreams: love, health, happiness, purpose. Whether in bustling Italian piazzas, serene Mongolian plains, Viking fjords, or vibrant Indian markets, the threads of family, community, and aspiration tie us all together. We may eat different foods, speak different languages, or pray in different ways, but we all seek connection, security, and a sense of belonging.

Through my Eastern European roots, I carry stories of resilience. From the Italians, I’ve inherited passion for life, for food, for the people who matter. The Indian influence in me brings a spirituality that grounds everything I do, while the Mongolian and Viking heritages remind me of the strength, adventure, and adaptability humans are capable of.

Each of us embodies a mosaic of histories and influences, yet we share the same biological and emotional needs. We smile, laugh, grieve, and dream in the same ways. Our struggles may manifest differently, but the desire for peace, success, and love is universal. The best part? Even though our customs differ, science often backs up these traditions in fascinating ways. So, let’s take a journey across the globe and look at the dos and taboos of everyday life—peppered with a few interesting facts you might know or not know!

Food: More Than Just Fuel

Food isn’t just about nutrition; it’s a cultural experience, and each region of the world has a different take on it. In Italy, food equals love (science backs that up: sharing meals boosts oxytocin, the “bonding” hormone). The do here? Savour your meals slowly, talk with your hands, and enjoy every bite. The taboo? Asking for ketchup on your pasta—it’s borderline criminal.

In Japan, meals are an art form. Did you know that the presentation of food can actually increase how much we enjoy it? Studies show that beautifully presented food is perceived as tastier (yes, your brain is tricked by looks). The do? Appreciate the aesthetics and don’t rush. The taboo? Sticking your chopsticks upright in your rice—this has ties to funeral customs, so it’s a definite no-no.

And while we’re talking about science, let’s not forget India, where spices aren’t just for flavour. Turmeric, a staple in Indian cooking, contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. So the next time you enjoy a curry, just know you’re doing your body a favour!

Dietary Customs and Taboos Across Regions

Exercise: Moving to Different Rhythms

We all need exercise, but how we stay fit can look totally different depending on where we are. In China, you’ll find people practicing Tai Chi in the parks. This isn’t just a slow, graceful form of movement—studies show Tai Chi improves balance, reduces stress, and even lowers blood pressure. The do? Move slowly, breathe deeply, and stay focused. The taboo? Rushing through it—Tai Chi is a marathon, not a sprint.

Meanwhile, over in Brazil, the exercise of choice might include a bit more dancing. Capoeira, a blend of martial arts and dance, isn’t just a fun way to stay fit—it’s a full-body workout that improves flexibility, coordination, and strength. Plus, research shows that music and rhythm can actually increase endurance, so those Brazilian beats are doing more than you think! The do? Move to the music and throw in some kicks. The taboo? Standing still. In Brazil, movement is life!

And for those in Scandinavia, exercise often means outdoor activities like hiking or skiing. Here’s the science: research shows that spending time in nature (a practice known as “forest bathing” in Japan) reduces stress, boosts mood, and even improves cognitive function. So the next time you lace up your hiking boots, know that Mother Nature is working wonders for your brain.

Popular Exercises and Traditional Physical Practices

Sleep: The Global Recharger

Ah, sleep—something we all need but rarely get enough of. Interestingly, how we approach sleep can differ depending on where you are. In Spain, the siesta has been a cultural institution for centuries. While it’s less common in today’s busy urban centres, research actually backs up the benefits of a short nap. Studies show that a 20-30 minute nap improves alertness and cognitive performance. The do? Embrace the nap when you can. The taboo? Sleeping too long—you’ll wake up groggy if your nap drifts into the deep sleep phase.

Over in Japan, things are a little different. Public napping, or inemuri, is seen as a sign of dedication and hard work (yes, really!). Sleep scientists say that brief naps, even in a busy environment, can help your brain recharge without fully switching off, keeping you alert. The do? A power nap on the train or at work is totally fine. The taboo? Falling into a deep sleep during a meeting—there are limits to this tradition!

Sleep Patterns and Cultural Sleep Habits Globally

Social Connection: Different Ways to Connect

Humans are social creatures, and how we connect varies across cultures. In Italy, social life revolves around long, leisurely meals. And guess what? Science says that socializing during meals improves digestion and enhances mental well-being—probably why the Mediterranean diet is linked to longevity. The do? Stay for the entire meal and engage in lively conversation. The taboo? Rushing off before the espresso arrives.

In Japan, social connections tend to be more reserved. Bowing, soft-spoken conversation, and a focus on harmony are key. And while it may seem formal, research shows that these structured social norms reduce conflict and promote group cohesion. The do? Be polite, listen carefully, and respect personal space. The taboo? Being too loud or direct—subtlety is the name of the game here.

No matter where you are, the science of social connection is clear: strong relationships and social bonds are linked to better health and a longer life.

Social Connection Norms and Taboos by Region

Spirituality: Finding Meaning in Our Own Way

Spirituality takes many forms, but the desire for meaning and connection to something greater than ourselves is universal. In India, yoga and meditation are practiced not just for physical health, but for spiritual alignment. And here’s the science: meditation has been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even change brain structure in ways that enhance focus and emotional regulation. The do? Practice regularly, breathe deeply, and focus inward. The taboo? Treating yoga as just a physical workout—it’s much more than that.

In Scandinavian countries, spirituality often comes through nature. There’s a practice called “friluftsliv,” which means “open-air living.” Spending time in nature isn’t just good for the soul—it’s scientifically proven to boost mental health, reduce anxiety, and even improve concentration. The do? Immerse yourself in the natural world. The taboo? Disrespecting the environment—nature is sacred here.

Whether it’s through quiet reflection, connection to nature, or communal rituals, humans everywhere seek meaning beyond the material world. And in each culture, science shows us that these practices contribute to well-being and longevity.

Spiritual Practices and Dietary or Lifestyle Rules

At the End of the Day, We’re All in This Together

So, whether we’re eating, moving, sleeping, connecting, or seeking meaning, we’re all driven by the same basic needs. The differences? Those are just the details that make life interesting. Underneath it all, we’re more similar than we realise, and the science backs it up!

So the next time you find yourself sitting across the table from someone from a different culture, take a moment to appreciate the dos, the taboos, and the universal desires we all share. No matter where we’re from, we’re all in this together—just dressed in different cultural clothes.

Global Similarities and Differences in Lifestyle Aspects

In my work as a neurologist and researcher, I’ve often reflected on how our brain functions are more alike than different across the globe. We process emotions the same way, feel joy and sadness in similar chemical and neurological processes, and even dream similarly. It’s humbling to consider that while we may dress our identities in different cultural fabrics, our mental and emotional patterns remain universally human.

More than ever, our world needs reminders of this unity. We are individuals, yes—but individuals who make up one collective human experience. When I walk into a room—whether it's for a clinical trial, a patient consultation, or a family gathering—this thought anchors me: We are all part of something much larger than ourselves.

Embracing Our Shared Humanity

So what does this mean for how we move forward, both personally and as a global society? It’s a call to action for empathy. It’s a reminder that every person we meet, no matter how different they seem, shares more in common with us than not. As I reflect on my diverse heritage, it becomes clear that our differences are not barriers; they are bridges. They are opportunities to learn, to grow, and to see the beauty in variety.

We are the same at our core, but the way we dress that sameness—through our cultures, languages, and traditions—makes the world an infinitely more colourful and vibrant place. And if we can recognise that the clothes don’t change the heart beneath, we can foster connections that transcend the superficial.

To those reading this, I extend an invitation: Celebrate your roots, but also celebrate the roots of others. Embrace your uniqueness, while knowing that everyone else is just as wonderfully unique in their own way. Let’s not be divided by the labels or the clothes we wear—cultural or otherwise—but united by the shared journey we all walk.

We are all human. We are all seekers. We are all dressed differently, but we are dressed in the same fundamental hope for a brighter, kinder World.

?If this article resonated with you or if you believe it can inspire someone else on their journey, I encourage you to like, comment, and share it with your community.

#Healthyliving #Brightness #Smartliving #Brainhealth #MultipleSclerosis

? dr Agne Straukiene

References:

References:

1. Books — Because sometimes reality just needs a little extra imagination.
2. Articles — Nuggets of wisdom… or at least words. Don’t worry, I’ll spare you the science overload!
3. Travelling — The ultimate course in culture shock therapy and airport patience studies.
4. Connecting with People Around the World — Who knew science could also come with so many accents and so much coffee?
5. Basic Medicine Science — Where it all begins, with the thrill of understanding how everything mostly works.
6. Life Experience — Equal parts adventure, blunders, and breakthroughs—best learned on the go.

Note: The infographics and descriptions are fictional suggestions to give you an idea of what visuals might accompany the article. Created by AI under my commands.