The heart has long been associated with heavy emotions, from joy to the deepest sorrow. Why is that? How long have humans even known there was this organ inside all of us?

In this program we explore the history of what we believe about the heart and the many Nordic and English expressions that refer to the heart. Then we turn to Nordic folklore to learn what folk belief says about the necessity of having the organ called the heart, even if you are a troll. What might you sacrifice or gain by magically living without a heart (i.e. without a conscience)?

We find out in the stories, "The troll who didn't carry his heart with him", and "The man without a heart."

Why is this question about "having a heart" so important today?

Visit our home page for this episode to to learn more and to leave a comment: https://nordicontap.com/nordic-folktales-of-the-heart/

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Anthropologist Dimitris Xygalatas said in his book, Rituals: How Seemingly Senseless Acts Make Life Worth Living, that rituals often have no physical result when performed. Instead, rituals are symbolic, and perform a very essential function in the roles of community building, cooperation, and trust.

In this Nordic on Tap episode, we delve into the Saint Lucia ritual, which coincides with the old winter solstice date (Dec 13th) on the Julian calendar. What happens during the St. Lucia ritual? Who participates?

Traditionally in Sweden, Lucia was depicted as a blue-eyed, blonde girl with fair skin. However, in modern times, as the population becomes more diverse, the St. Lucia ritual has evolved to reflect a broader range of backgrounds, promoting greater inclusivity. This highlights how traditions can evolve to reflect societal changes while still maintaining their cultural significance.

Join me as we try to make sense of this with Stina Cowan, the Cultural Director at the Swedish Club Northwest, in Seattle, Washington USA. We also listen to 3 traditional and lovely Lucia Day songs associated with the ritual.

See extras and links on our website episode page on Nordic on Tap.

I remember when I first saw 7 people line up at a table, pick up two bells with each hand, and proceed to make music unlike anything I've heard before or since. Not a single one of them played the melody. They created the melody and chords by coordinated movements and exquisite timing. They played hymns, popular songs, you name it. And the sound of bells was magical and enchanting.

Imagine being in a choir without having to sing a single note. But you sure have to be able to concentrate, and read music.

Join me as we dive into the world of a handbell choir, how the bells work (more complicated than you'd think), and how with lots of practice they learn to play together. You'll get to meet Matt Weed, a long-time handbell player who really knows his way around the bells. Like Matt, many of those in the Faith Lutheran Church Handbell Choir of Redmond, Washington, have been playing in the choir for 40-50 years. What is it that motivates these people to take time out at the end of their workdays to play bells?

They say it's a lot of fun. And they invite anyone to experience handbell playing, including with digital bells online or on your phone. But it's more fun with a group of people!

Please see for links, videos, and photos at https://nordicontap.com/making-joyful-music-the-handbell-choir/.