The Pacific Rim Magazine for 2004 includes a wide variety of topics. Take a look at our features below or inside.

The Evolution of An Art, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
In 1914, the Japanese fighting art of jiu-jitsu was brought to South America, where it began to undergo substantial changes and a meteoric rise in local popularity. Over the past century, one visionary family, the Gracies, has become synonymous with the sport by spearheading its evolution. The Gracie influence has had such an effect that Brazilian jiu-jitsu and Gracie jiu-jitsu have become interchangeable terms. Today, Brazilian jiu-jitsu has come to be regarded by many worldwide as the essential martial art, both for self-defense and for sport. Read more

Taoist Sexual Alchemy
Sometimes called sexual kung-fu, Taoist Healing Love is an age old practice of lovemaking that transports its practitioners to states of euphoria. It has helped many people develop a more soulful bond with their partners, as well as enhance their energy and relaxation outside the bedroom. The Healing Love technique involves a variety of daily relaxation exercises to promote better health. Through meditation, strengthening and breathing exercises, practitioners become aware of their own sexual energy, and how it can be expanded during sex and in their daily lives. Read more

Medical Tourism in Thailand
Amazing Thailand—Unseen Treasures, the international tourism slogan for Thailand, promises to reveal more than meets the eye. The Land of Smiles has something for everyone: beautiful beaches, spectacular scenery, historical sites and of course, shopping. A promotional video urges visitors to “splurge on whatever your heart desires.” And they do. Some tourists go home with a suntan or newly tailored clothes, others return with larger breasts, smoother faces or fat-free legs. Still others undergo more serious medical procedures such as heart surgery or cancer treatment. It gives a whole new meaning to the casual post-holiday remark, “You look rested.” Read more

In Search of Chinese Opera
Ask any Chinese person about their childhood and most will undoubtedly have some memory of Chinese opera. Whether it was the tapes that grandmother played on Sunday evenings while doing the dishes, or part of the background at family gatherings complete with mah-jong and food galore, Chinese opera is a dominant element of Chinese heritage and culture. Read more

BC Lumber Explores the Chinese Markets
In 2001, the Softwood Lumber Agreement between Canada and the United States expired. The US, accusing Canada of unfair trade because of government-subsidized harvesting rates, imposed a 29 percent tariff on all imports to the US exceeding 14.7 million board feet. Canada went to the North American Free Trade Agreement and the World Trade Organization to challenge the US decision. In March 2004 the WTO ruled in Canada’s favour, with NAFTA’s decision still to come. The ramifications of the rulings remain to be seen. Read more