The art of divination has been used in many forms throughout much of known history. Tarot cards originated as casual playing cards in Europe between 1375 and 1378. Cards were first mentioned as use in divination in 1487 literature, and the tarot were associated with witchcraft in trial records from 1589 Venice. Modern Tarot decks are usually fashioned after the Rider-Waite deck, first published in 1909. Today, Tarot cards are a popular form of divination. On the Spirit Path (onthespiritpath.com/) in San Pedro offers information and instruction in the use of the Tarot as well as professional readings. Classes are held at Angel's Gate Cultural Center on South Gaffey and The Path on Torrance Boulevard.
The ancient art of acupuncture predates recorded history. Acupuncture takes its philosophy from the Taoist Tradition, which is more than 8,000 years old. The Chinese physician, Huang Fu Mi, published the ancient text, "Systematic Classics of Acupuncture and Moxibustion" in 265 A.D., describing the use of thin needles inserted into 349 different acupuncture points used to ease pain, align the body, treat disease and soothe internal organs. Research is ongoing in the practice of acupuncture anesthesia, clinical effects on disease and treating a variety of afflictions from addiction to infertility. Visit the San Pedro Healing Arts Medical Clinic (sphealingarts.com/) on West 7th Street to experience the benefits of the ancient art of acupuncture.
The oldest tattoo known was found on Otzi, the Iceman, in 1991. Otzi is thought to have lived some time before 4,000 B.C. Otzi wore 58 different tattoos over his body, mostly created from simple dots and lines. The earliest types of tattoos were tribal tattoos, used to represent an affiliation with a specific tribe or group. Tattooing has since evolved to a fine art form that is gaining wider acceptance in modern society. Visit So Cal Tattoo (socaltattoo.com/) on West 6th Street to get your own expert artwork.
The art of yoga began more than 5,000 years ago somewhere in India. Yoga predates Hinduism, a religious system that adopted yogic practices into its religious structure. Yoga is renowned for its ability to promote peace of mind, improve health and manage stress in practitioners. Visit Inner Harmony Yoga Studio (inner-harmony-yoga.com/) on West 9th Street to experience the benefits of yoga.