Essays
Brain Training by Learning a Script Stroke by Stroke
Learning a foreign script stroke by stroke is rich brain exercise. Here is what it genuinely does for the mind, and why Chinese is an especially strong workout.
Lawrence Arya··5 min
Essays
An iPad App With Large, Clear Chinese Characters
A big iPad screen with large, high-contrast characters makes writing practice comfortable, especially for older eyes. Here is what to look for, and an honest note on tracing vs recall.
Lawrence Arya··5 min
Essays
Mindful Tracing of Traditional Characters for Seniors
Tracing traditional characters can be calm, meditative, and good for the mind. Here is how to make it mindful, and where from-memory writing adds the most.
Lawrence Arya··5 min
Playbooks
An Offline Mandarin Writing App for Retired Expats
Retired in China and want to write Mandarin without fighting spotty data or a firewall? Here is what an offline-first, senior-friendly writing app should do.
Lawrence Arya··5 min
Essays
Does Writing Hanzi Help Prevent Memory Loss?
Can memorizing Hanzi stroke order protect memory as you age? Here is what the research on cognitive reserve really says, honestly, and how to practice well.
Lawrence Arya··5 min
Essays
A Slow-Paced Chinese Writing App for Older Adults
Older learners do not need gamified speed. They need clear, calm, unhurried writing practice. Here is what slow-paced should mean, and how Hanzi Write Practice fits.
Lawrence Arya··5 min
Essays
Hanzi Drawing as a Sudoku Alternative
If you do sudoku to keep your mind engaged, drawing Chinese characters offers the same absorbing daily puzzle, with the bonus of learning a real skill. Here is the honest comparison.
Lawrence Arya··5 min