#myth-busting

[otmaaromanovas]

Romanov myths part three - did the Grand Duchesses go shopping?

Over the years, a prevalent belief that the Romanov Grand Duchesses, Olga, Tatiana, Maria, and Anastasia, did not go shopping continues to be repeated. Some historians have even suggested that the girls did not know how paying for items worked. However, primary sources including those written by people who knew the girls, were members of their entourage, and the Grand Duchesses' own diaries, tell a different story...

"Saturday. 10 August. … We walked along the historic boulevard and the main streets, but crowds followed us everywhere, so we were able to go into only 2 shops for a minute..." "Friday. 15 November. Had lessons, after that went shopping for wool with Nastenka as usual.." From Grand Duchess Olga Nikolaevna’s 1913 diary [my underlining]

In this entry, Olga describes shopping Countess Anastasia 'Nastenka' Vassilievna Hendrikova, who was a young lady-in-waiting at court and a particular favourite of the Grand Duchesses, often accompanying them on trips. As described in the first entry, it appears that safety and security concerns due to crowds, rather than a lack of understanding about shops, contributed to the Grand Duchesses not being able to shop frequently. Nastenka is frequently mentioned by the Grand Duchesses in their diaries, and volunteered to join the Romanov family in their house arrest and imprisonment. She was murdered by the Bolsheviks in September 1918.

"After coffee, I went for a walk with my pupils… They really liked to go to the shops and buy everything. Anastasia Nikolaevna was especially attracted to stores, where they sold doll shoes of various sizes… Tatiana Nikolaevna did not always accompany since the doctors found her heart was weak and she went with the Empress to take baths." A Few Years Before the Catastrophe by Sofia Ivanovna Tyutcheva [my underlining].

This was was written by Sofia Ivanovna Tyutcheva, who was a maid-of-honour to Tsarina Alexandra Feodorovna. In 1907 she was appointed as governess to the Grand Duchesses. The Grand Duchesses referred to her affectionately as "Savanna", a mix of her first name and patronymic. She was dismissed in 1912 when she voiced concerns over Grigori Efimovich Rasputin. She wrote a short memoir in 1945, from which this quote originates, and passed away in 1957.

"[The] Grand Duchesses went shopping in the morning with one of the ladies-in-waiting to the Empress. They delighted in that because they could mix with the crowd and buy things just as everyone else did, and they were so pleased if they were not recognised at once." -- Upheaval - Olga Voronova [my underlining]

This was written by Countess Olga Konstantinovna Voronova, who was part of the aristocratic Kleinmichel family. In 1914 she married one of the Romanov girl's favourite officers, Pavel Alexeievich Voronov. Through these connections, Olga Konstantinovna became a friend of the Grand Duchesses, exchanging frequent letters with Olga and Tatiana in particular, before and after the Revolution. She published her memoirs in 1932. Once again, it is inferred that being recognised and subsequent security concerns stifled the Grand Duchesses' shopping sprees.

Where did the myth come from?

It appears that the myth came about due to this extract from Margaretta Eagar, an Irish nanny who cared for the children from 1898 to 1904:

Her only knowledge of shops and shopping was derived from the toy and sweet shops in Darmstadt. One day she asked me why the Americans spoke English, not American. I told her the story of the Pilgrim Fathers, and described how they built houses and shops, and so made towns. She was exceedingly interested and inquired, ' Where did they find the toys to sell in the shops ? " Six Years at the Russian Court, by Margaretta Eagar

It appears that some historians forgot that Margaretta Eagar moved on from her nanny position in 1904, when the eldest Grand Duchess was nine and the youngest was three - young children. It seems they did not look for sources from when the Grand Duchesses had grown up and had slightly more independence, which was encouraged by their parents.

Over time, the myth appears to have been exaggerated and repeated until it became part of the 'folklore' surrounding the Romanov Grand Duchesses, portraying them as isolated and naïve.

Whilst it is clear that the Grand Duchesses did enjoy going shopping in their lifetimes, safety and security concerns meant they could not enjoy shopping as frequently as other teenagers may have, in the same way royals today would not be able to go to shops without being recognised. There was a chance that a crowd could gather. Similarly, Olga and Tatiana appear to have shopped more than the younger pair, Maria and Anastasia, likely due to being older in age and therefore having more independence.

Photos:

First set, left: Olga, Anastasia (hidden behind Olga), and Maria Shopping in Germany, 1910. Right: Olga and Tatiana out shopping in the Isle of Wight, 1909, accompanied by Dr. Evgeny Botkin (in the suit)

Second set, left: Tatiana and Maria shopping with Sofia Ivanovna Tyutcheva, circa 1910. Right: The Grand Duchesses and their entourage by shops, most likely taken in Germany, 1910

Sources:

Journal of a Russian Grand Duchess: Complete Annotated 1913 Diary of Olga Romanov, Eldest Daughter of the Last Tsar, translator Helen Azar, (Independently published: 2015)

A Few Years Before the Catastrophe: The Memoirs of Sofia Ivanovna Tyutcheva, translator George Hawkins, (Independently published: 2020)

Upheaval, Olga Voronova (Woronoff), (New York; London: G. P. Putnam's Sons, 1932) -- Free to read online here

Six Years at the Russian Court, Margaretta Eagar, (New York: Charles L. Bowman and Company, 1906) -- Free to read online here

[swatik1991]

Myth-Busting: 10 Common Misconceptions About Bariatric Surgery

Bariatric surgery is one of the most effective tools for long-term weight loss and the management of obesity-related diseases. Yet, it’s surrounded by myths that can confuse or even discourage those who need it most.

Let’s bust the top 10 myths and get to the facts.

1. Myth: Bariatric Surgery Is the “Easy Way Out”

Fact: Bariatric surgery requires lifestyle changes, dietary discipline, and long-term commitment. It’s a medical tool — not a shortcut.

2. Myth: You Can Eat Whatever You Want After Surgery

Fact: Post-surgery success depends heavily on healthy eating habits. Overeating or poor food choices can lead to complications or weight regain.

3. Myth: Bariatric Surgery Is Only for Extremely Obese People

Fact: It’s also recommended for people with a lower BMI if they have comorbidities like type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, or hypertension.

4. Myth: It’s Too Risky

Fact: With advancements in laparoscopic and robotic surgery, bariatric surgery is now considered very safe — especially when performed by experts like Dr. Shashank Shah.

5. Myth: You’ll Instantly Lose All the Weight

Fact: Weight loss is gradual. Most patients lose 60–80% of their excess weight over 12–18 months.

6. Myth: Bariatric Surgery Is Only About Weight Loss

Fact: It can lead to remission of type 2 diabetes, improvement in heart health, joint pain relief, and better mental health.

7. Myth: You’ll Never Gain Weight Again

Fact: Some weight regain can happen without follow-up care. However, most patients maintain significant weight loss long-term with proper support.

8. Myth: It Causes Serious Nutritional Deficiencies

Fact: With routine supplements and follow-up care, nutritional levels are well-managed in most patients.

9. Myth: You Can’t Have Kids After Bariatric Surgery

Fact: Fertility often improves after weight loss. Doctors usually advise waiting about a year post-surgery before planning pregnancy.

10. Myth: All Bariatric Surgeries Are the Same

Fact: Different procedures suit different needs — like Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy, or Mini Gastric Bypass. The right one depends on your medical profile and goals.

Final Word

Bariatric surgery is a scientifically backed, safe, and effective option for those struggling with obesity and related diseases. Don’t let misinformation hold you back from a healthier future.

👨‍⚕️ Want expert advice? Schedule your consultation with Dr. Shashank Shah at the renowned Laparo-Obeso Centre today.

[fanciedfacts]

Nuclear detonation nightmare and misconceptions that many people are confused about radiation and direct effects in case of a nuclear explosion.

[wovetherapy]

Myth-Busting Couples Therapy

As a therapist, I’m reminded on almost a daily basis that relationships are complicated and often challenging to navigate. When people from different walks of life come together to form a partnership, conflict is inevitable. Sometimes, couples therapy can provide the guidance and support needed to strengthen our bonds. Unfortunately, couples therapy is often surrounded by myths that discourage people from seeking help. Let's debunk some of these common misconceptions and destigmatize couples therapy.

Myth #1: Only Troubled Relationships Need Therapy

Many people mistakenly believe that couples only attend therapy as a last-ditch effort to save their relationship. However, in one study, only 14 percent of couples started therapy to figure out whether they could save the relationship or whether they should part ways (Parker, 2019). Couples may attend therapy for a myriad of reasons. In fact, the same study found that 46 percent of couples wanted to handle conflict better, 30 percent wanted to restore their bond, and 25 percent felt they were doing well and just wanted to enhance some part of their union (Parker, 2019).

Couples therapy can be a proactive and positive step for any couple, regardless of the severity of their issues. It can help enhance communication skills, deepen emotional intimacy, and provide tools for navigating challenges together. Therapy is a resource for growth, not just a last resort.

Myth #2: Couples Therapy Is Only for Married Couples

Couples therapy is not exclusive to married couples. It can benefit couples at any stage of their relationship, including those who are dating, engaged, or in long-term partnerships. The goal is to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and create a healthier connection, regardless of legal marital status.

Myth #3: Therapists Take Sides

A skilled couples therapist is neutral and impartial. Their role is not to take sides but to facilitate open communication and guide both partners toward understanding each other's perspectives. The goal is to promote mutual understanding and resolution rather than assigning blame.

It is also important for couples to have a warm and supportive therapeutic relationship with their therapist, not only for their personal well-being but also for improving their relationship. Studies indicate that when couples establish a deeper rapport with their therapist, it correlates with enhancements in their romantic bond (Parker, 2019). Developing this type of therapeutic relationship can only happen when a therapist is neutral and supportive of all parties involved.

Myth #4: Couples Therapy Is Only for Big Problems

Couples therapy is not limited to resolving significant crises. It can address many concerns, from communication issues and lack of intimacy to daily stressors and future planning. Therapy can also act as a preventative tool for addressing minor concerns before they escalate into more significant challenges down the road.

Myth #5: Therapy Is a Sign of Failure

Starting couples therapy does not mean that you have failed as a couple. Due to social stigma, it’s common for couples to experience a sense of inadequacy or shame (Parker, 2019). However, another way to see it is as a brave and proactive step toward building a healthier relationship. Couples therapy demonstrates a commitment to personal and relational growth. Just as people seek professional help for personal development, couples can benefit from therapy to strengthen their connection and navigate challenges more effectively. Instead of viewing couples therapy as a failure, consider it an important step to creating a successful relationship.

Couples therapy is a valuable resource that can benefit relationships at any stage. While it may not be for everyone, it is crucial to destigmatize couples therapy for those who might benefit from it. Taking the step toward therapy is not a sign of weakness but a testament to the strength and commitment to building a fulfilling and resilient partnership.

Contact us.

[meteorologistaustenlonek]

Factcheck: 21 misleading myths about electric vehicles

"Epic factcheck by @DrSimEvans at @CarbonBrief of 21 misleading claims about electric vehicles and their critical role in decarbonizing transportation:" Zeke Hausfather @hausfath

[blackknight-kai]

Just Busty things:

This is a Drabble about that hot as fuck way too detailed bust. You know the one 🫵.

(Edit: I am writing this fic 👀)

The “life size” bust of Sun Wukong from the video game attracts his dormant spirit- you bought it / go a hold of it. (Somehow you have it!)

You’d activated his spirit because like a weirdo you kissed the damn thing once - just for fun. You couldn’t help it and giggled to yourself as you did it because “haha I kissed Sun Wukong”. (You’ve been into Sun Wukong so your attraction and ‘want’ magically do something here).

After doing so you don’t notice as its glass eyes follow you as you walk around your living room. (Ngl I was thinking a bit of a horror scene for this so…idk if Wukong is ‘good’ or ‘yandere’ here up to you).

He knows you don’t notice and makes sure to look normal if you happen to look at him. Over time he gets to know you through those glass eyes watching you, those ears listening as you talk to your friends on the phone or mumble to yourself. Starts to fall for you (because duh). You walk around naked or with little clothes on in front of him - he’s a bust and you live alone.

You kiss him a few more times- surprising the ever loving shit out of him because, why are you giving a bust chaste kisses????? Each time bringing him more and more to life / animating his face.

Which you don’t realize is happening because giving his bust a goodbye kiss or I’m home kiss has now become habit. Good night/morning kisses too! Because whos gonna know? You even pet the fur on the side of his face and sigh, tell him how handsome he is or sometimes you talk to him like you’re talking to someone else. You aren’t crazy, just talking through your own problems or issues and you know the bust isn’t gonna answer- it’s like talking to a house pet. Even call him your “boyfriend” jokingly or tell your friends “I miss my husband” as a joke when you’re out with them.

What you don’t know is the more you treat that bust like it’s a real thing (joking or not) and bestow your feelings on it, Wukong’s spirit is able to start manipulating it and manifesting it to come to life, eventually while you are gone for the day he’s able to magic up the rest of his body. He doesn’t reveal himself right away, no. He fiddles with the stuff in your home and learns things about you / this world while you are out. If you notice things out of place, you DONT. Because you do not want to think your house is haunted.

You’re in for a surprise. 😈

(There are so many ways he could reveal himself, while you kiss him he kisses you back, waiting for you on the couch in his full animated now REAL body, crawls in bed with you one night - this one is a darker thought so…moving on, talks back to you when you tell his ‘bust’ about your day, just so many things his mischievous ass could do.)

[diioonysus]

modern goddesses

[dykealloy]

“we sent yuan away so his feelings could subside” you sent him to gay rizz bootcamp is what you did

[angelicathedaisy]

currently obsessed with this gorgeous statue of Melpomene muse of tragedy

Roman statue of Melpomene, 2nd century A.D.

[sincerely-sofie]

It’s Narilamb fankid hours.

[apollomes-supremacy]

Getting used to drawing on my new iPad and decided Apollo would be my first victim

[elbiotipo]

Adam and Jamie were friends:

Adam and Jamie were not friends but they did hook up an unspecified number of times in the Mythbusters set:

[dailyrothko]

Glad you’re on here , trust your posts

like Rothko but don’t know a lot of his work and am wary that there’s probably a lot of fakes / people’s versions circulating online and I only want the real thing -

I appreciate your confidence and, while, I made mistakes early on being too trusting, I'm pretty thorough these days even though anything can happen!

Examples this week:

One thing prominently lately has been this scan of Mark Rothko, Untitled, 1960, which is a real painting, but is upside down here and decidedly too red (in my view).

The proper orientation on this (and a better photo) is this:

Meanwhile, I'm not sure how this got taken for a real Rothko, but it's been making the rounds:

If you're pretty familiar with Rothko I think you can tell this is not the real thing, but its internet life persists. I think it's from one of those thousands of "Inspired by" canvas prints shops but the original origin is unknown to me.

[manichewitz]

i dont think yall understand how floored i was when i found out that the interview with the vampire books are actually incredibly erotically gay for real and not just light queercoding or fan's gay ships?? bc this changes everything. i had always assumed anne rice hated fanfic authors for making her male characters fuck, but no, she just wanted to be the only author making her male characters fuck

[fishcheesenoodles]

@an1m4t1c smells EEUEUEUWWWW STINK EEWEWEWEW

anyways um hi hello first post geeyulp

[myobsessionsspace]

One of The Narratives That Turned Canon

Why Jungkook not liking Jimin, when they were younger, is NOT true.

Images like this would circulate and be used as 'evidence' as to Jungkook's dislike for Jimin.

The narrative that Jungkook didn’t like Jimin and that Jimin annoyed/harassed Jungkook, always stemmed from cut off footage, jokey pictures or lack of understanding.

It needs to be remembered that the Rap Line joined Big Hit first, whilst the rest APART from Jimin joined in 2011.

Jimin was the last to join the trainees, around mid 2012. Being the last to join such an intense atmosphere of training, competition and comradery, we can understand that Jimin should have been the odd one out, the one that the trainees would have had the least shared experiences with, the least emotional bonds been the one that would have stuck out from the 'pack.'

The order of the members, as they joined Bangtan, with Jimin completing the group to form the 7 that we now know and love.

The Maknae of the group, Jungkook, had been taken under the wing of the hyung of the group, Jin, who protected him, gave him home comforts by taking him back with him to his family home, which was the closest to the dorms and treating him to meals, as the trainees had yet to make much money.

The maknae had also formed a close bond with the second youngest of the group Taehyung, who when he wanted to goof around and feel his age, he could count on him, who was the more extroverted out of the two and so would bring out different sides to Jungkook, that Jungkook couldn't display on his own and who helped in bringing the younger boy out of his shell.

For Jungkook he found cool, minor celeb underground rapper with a genius IQ and tall manly presence in Namjoon. He found the steady, unassuming presence in Yoongi, knowledgeable in the behind the scenes of music production with a pool of general knowledge also. He found in Hobi the cool street dancer who he could learn from and show sides of his self that he couldn't with the other five, a Hyung that by Jungkook’s own words provided him the most comfort before Jimin became that person to him.

Such a cutie!

People have often believed and carried on with an image of a quiet and mysterious, dark clothed, testosterone filled 'Alpha', when it comes to Jungkook.

He has been called out time and time again by his Hyungs and fans in their early days about his blunt personality, tone and delivery.

But Jungkook was and still is the embodiment of a classic shy introvert.

He’s taken several MBTI tests over the years (there are varied opinions on the validity/reliability and truth of these tests). One thing has remained consistent through them all, the ‘I’ for Introversion.

JK was young, introverted and SHY! Look at this BB titled ‘Jungkook Shy, shy, shy’.

Jimin came into the company and with his wonderful personality, amazing talent and genuine nature, he quickly formed bonds that cemented the 7. Though there were likely many misunderstanding amongst the seven young, hormonal men, all in a new and charged environment.

Rainy Day - both accounts

Jungkook DID find a hyung to look up to in Jimin

A person who would take him under his wing and protect him

A person to help and motivate him in his dance

A person he could be young, wild and free with

A person he could be himself with and feel the lowest of the low and the highest of the high with.

Jungkook wanted to quit being an idol to be a dancer???

ENG TRANS: “I will have a nice business trip to the US. Jimin will take good care of me.”

Though Jungkook was and still is, according to himself, an introvert, he gets moments where he leaps out of his comfort zone, not because he has to (like for example, for work) but because he wants to

Though Jimin has INCREDIBLE emotional intelligence *now* it didn't come from birth, it would have been developed and deepened over time.

In the early years of their bond, what we have witnessed third hand, are some of the workings that went towards the development of their emotional understandings of each other, how their bond evolved in front of people, what needed to be said and not said in front of others.

But make no mistake, they BOTH were fond of each other and equally sought out each others presence, for comfort, for fun, for motivation, for advice, for good times and bad.

The myth was that Jungkook didn't like Jimin in the early days and that they weren't close.

The truth is that, they were the closet of the whole group.

💜💛

This is a blog version of a twitter thread I did

Interesting Links:

Part 1

Part 2