Yoga vs Exercise: Which is Better?

(Updated Version)

The challenges of the 21st century often boil down to one essential realization - the need to slow down. Life's constant rush can lead to numerous health problems, and this reality is visible everywhere, even among younger age groups. Among these health concerns, mental health issues have become especially prevalent and widely discussed (SIMPLE MENTAL HEALTH TIPS).

 

The Role of Yoga and Exercise in Health
This brings us to a critical question: Can exercise help us slow down, or does it sometimes accelerate the pace of life, neglecting both mental and physical well-being? Let’s look at the similarities and differences between yoga and exercise.

 

What Yoga and Exercise Have in Common

Physical Activity
Both yoga and exercise involve working with the body to improve flexibility, tone, energy, and strength.

 

Intensity Options
Both offer low-impact or high-impact approaches.

 

For exercise, low-impact activities include walking or gentle Zumba, while high-impact activities include running, swimming, or Tabata.

 

For yoga, Zen yoga focuses on gentle, slow-paced poses, while Flow, Aerial, Ashtanga, or Vinyasa yoga provide more vigorous, calorie-burning options.

Health Benefits

Both promote a healthy lifestyle, supporting stress relief, detoxification through sweating, and optimal cardiovascular function.

 

The Unique Edge of Yoga

While exercise focuses primarily on physical fitness, yoga offers a broader, more integrated approach that encompasses the mind, breath, and soul. Yoga harmonizes these four dimensions - body, breath, mind, and soul - creating a comprehensive system that nurtures sustainable zenness.

Mindfulness and Mental Health

The sharp sword of the 21st century, as I’ve mentioned, is none other than mental health. It is one of the main concerns, as humans are unable to slow down, pause, and bring the mind to the present moment. The mental aspect can feel like a heavy burden, constantly racing. Without mindfulness, this can lead to confusion, agitation, and unhealthy behaviors. These are the reasons why individuals struggle to cultivate kindness - especially toward themselves (BREATHWORK: A BEGINNER'S GUIDE).

 

The In today’s fast-paced world, the pursuit of wealth often comes at the expense of health, impacting even the youngest, as they are caught in a cycle of relentless success and achievement.

 

The Path to Sustainable Zenness

Yoga is more than a practice of slowing down - it is about finding clarity, cultivating mental health, and fostering a deeper connection with oneself. Once health deteriorates, it becomes not just a matter of repair but of rebalancing, aligning the body, mind, and soul to promote sustainable zenness.

(Ms. Nava is a Zen entrepreneur who founded Nava's Zen at 58 and is now in her 60s. She is a certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. With over 22 years of lecturing experience, including 13 years in the Curtin University Australia Degree Twinning Program, she shares her passion for Zenfulness through the small steps we take towards aging gracefully and fostering personal growth).

 

 

Simple Mental Health Tips

(Updated Version)

Mental health is one of the most significant challenges of modern life. While it’s a topic frequently discussed, addressing mental health requires more than just talking about it - it begins with ourselves. When you feel well mentally, you naturally spread positivity, love, and kindness to those around you.

 

But where do we start? A good question indeed. Keep reading, as you’ll discover how a few simple mental health tips can make a meaningful difference in your life.

Easy Tofu Recipes: Vegetarian and Vegan

Tofu has long been a favorite in my household - loved for its versatility, affordability, and ability to satisfy vegetarians, vegans, and even meat lovers. Widely used in Japan and Korea ((KOREA THROUGH MY EYES, HOKKAIDO WANDERLUST & OSAKA SUNSETS). tofu has become a global favorite, with endless possibilities for simple yet satisfying dishes.

Today, tofu is easily available, from traditional markets to high-end stores, offering many varieties. While I appreciate all types, my go-to is the soft, organic Japanese tofu, free of preservatives. Its mild flavor may seem simple, but it’s perfect for absorbing the bold, spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors of Malaysian and Asian cooking.

What makes these recipes even more special is that many of the ingredients come from my own garden at Nava’s Zen - chilies, basil, and spring onions that I carefully grow. 

(Vibrant Sabah chillies in purple, red, and green, grown fresh in Nava's Zen garden)

These tofu recipes are healthy, vegetarian, vegan and ideal for anyone looking for quick, flavorful plant-based meals.

Thai-Style Vegetarian Tofu

Steam or microwave tofu for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

Transfer the tofu to a plate and top with chopped or sliced cucumber, tomato, and chilies.

Drizzle with lime juice and sprinkle with Thai basil leaves and salt to taste.

Steamed Tofu with Soy Sauce
Steam or microwave tofu until warmed.

Garnish with crushed peanuts, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, chilies, salt, and fresh cilantro.

Steamd Tofu with Oyster Sauce
Steam white tofu and place on a plate.

Tip atop vegetarian oyster sauce, some crispy fried shallots and sliced spring onions. 

 

Chong Kok Kopitiam: Delightful Heritage Flavors

When my breakfast crew suggested heading to Klang's Chong Kok Kopitiam for another morning feast, I, being the enthusiastic foodie, readily agreed. I heard tales of this Kopitiam being a stroll down heritage lane from years back, adding to the allure. As we negotiated the usual challenge of finding parking in Klang, we eventually secured a spot in one of the backlanes.As we crossed the road in front of Chong Kok Kopitiam, a sudden realization hit me - I've been here before. While I couldn't recall the name initially, revisiting the same eatery posed no issue.

Bharat Spice: Indian Cuisine Flavors and Experiences in Kota Kemuning

Yet another Sunday dedicated to our food explorations, and this time, we stayed local in Kota Kemuning (Asian Fusion Seafood & Kalyana Virunthu Cafe). Our destination was the recently opened "Bharat Spice," a fresh addition that has taken over the space formerly known as Saffron Spice. Surprisingly, not much has changed - the ambiance retains its familiar feel, and even the menu seems to be a recycled version of the one from Saffron Spice. 

Turmeric Boiled Eggs Recipe

Brace yourself! These aren’t your fancy, superstar turmeric boiled eggs. These are traditional-style turmeric boiled eggs, made with fresh turmeric. Simple to prepare, and if you grow fresh turmeric like we do at Nava's Zen, you’re all set. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t always have eggs at home? Let’s dive into the recipe.

No Cook Canned Sardine Salad - Thai Style

(Updated Version)

Canned sardines are a staple in my weekly or monthly provisions - always ready to save the day during those moments when there’s no time to shop for fresh ingredients. And let me tell you, we’re big fans of canned sardines, no matter how they’re cooked. But what if I told you there’s a way to enjoy them without cooking? Intrigued?

 

Introducing the No-Cook Canned Sardine Salad! Known as Yam Pl Krapong in Thai language. Not just any salad, though - this is a Thai-style authentic and classic salad. Bursting with quintessential Thai flavors, it’s elevated by a medley of aromatic herbs that bring a refreshing twist to the dish.

Roselle: Exploring Health Benefits and Uses

(Updated Version)

Roselle, a variety of the hibiscus family (Hibiscus sabdariffa), is known by many names worldwide, including Sorelle, Gongura, Karkadeh, and Bissap. Its glossy, bright red bloom is truly eye-catching, but there’s more to Roselle than its looks. This plant is packed with incredible health benefits that make it a popular choice in both traditional and modern wellness practices. Let’s dive into some of Roselle’s top health benefits and versatile uses (THE BEGINNERS ULTIMATE GUIDE TO GROWING HERBS). 

Health Benefits of Roselle

Rich in Antioxidants

High in vitamin C and anthocyanins, promoting skin health and reducing oxidative stress.

 

Supports Heart Health

Helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol for a healthy cardiovascular system.

 

Aids in Digestion

Gentle laxative effects support healthy digestion and gut balance.

 

Weight Management

Regulates metabolism and reduces body fat, aiding in weight management.

 

Immune System Booster

High in vitamin C, enhancing immune resilience.

 

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Alleviates symptoms of arthritis and inflammatory conditions.

Growing and Cultivating Roselle

Growing Roselle at home is relatively simple and rewarding. Here are a couple of methods to start your Roselle garden (HOW TO GROW AND CARE FOR TORCH GINGER). 

Starting from a Stem
All you need is a single stem to begin. Roselle plants multiply as their fruits form, and if left alone, the seeds within the fruits will naturally drop, sprouting new plants. Buy a small plant, and you’ll soon have a thriving roselle garden with minimal effort.

 

Propagating from Cuttings
Alternatively, pluck off the leaves and allow the stems to sit in water until roots appear. Once rooted, you can plant the stems directly in soil. With regular watering and a bit of organic fertilizer, you’ll see flowers and fruits flourishing in no time.

Uses of Roselle

Beyond health benefits, Roselle is highly valued for its versatility. Here are some popular uses of this vibrant plant:

 

Nutritional Supplement
Rich in essential vitamins and antioxidants, Roselle is consumed globally as a supplement for immunity, digestion, and heart health. It’s a natural way to incorporate beneficial nutrients into your diet.

 

Traditional Medicine
For centuries, Roselle has been a staple in traditional medicine, used to treat ailments like coughs, fever, and digestive issues due to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

 

Natural Dye
The deep red calyces of Roselle are used as a natural dye for textiles and food. This vibrant color provides an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic dyes.

 

Culinary Uses of Roselle
Roselle is widely used in cooking, adding a unique tangy flavor and vibrant color to various dishes. Here are some simple ways to incorporate Roselle into your culinary repertoire:

 

Roselle Juice
To make refreshing Roselle juice, peel the calyces, remove the seeds, and wash them thoroughly. Blend with water to your desired consistency and add honey for sweetness and/or lemon juice for tanginess. You can choose to strain the juice or leave it unstrained, as the fruit contains fiber and is packed with health benefits, making it a delicious and nutritious drink.

Roselle Jam

To make Roselle jam, clean the calyces and cook them in a pot with sugar and water until they reach a thick, jam-like consistency. This jam can also be diluted with water to make a fruity Roselle drink.

Chutney from Roselle Leaves

Known as sour leaves, Roselle leaves can be used to make a tangy chutney. Boil the leaves to reduce their sourness, mash them, and temper with curry leaves, shallots, and dried chilies for a flavorful side dish. Add salt to taste, and enjoy this unique twist on traditional chutney.

Roselle in Lamb Curry

Add Roselle calyces to lamb, mutton, chicken, or fish curry for a natural burst of sourness, which eliminates the need for tamarind or tomatoes. The calyces also give the dish a rich, red hue that adds visual appeal and depth of flavor.

From its impressive health benefits to its vibrant uses in the kitchen and traditional medicine, Roselle is a plant worth exploring. It’s easy to grow, visually appealing, and loaded with potential for improving overall health and wellness. Whether you’re sipping on Roselle tea, making chutney from the leaves, or adding a pop of color with Roselle juice, this versatile plant has a place in every garden and kitchen.

 

Wouldn’t you agree that growing Roselle is a worthy endeavor? With all its benefits, uses, and easy cultivation methods, Roselle truly deserves a spot in your garden and a staple role in your Zen routine.

(Ms. Nava is a dynamic individual in her 60s, leading yoga sessions at Nava's Zen while also embracing her passion for gardening through Zen Blooming. With credentials in gardening and extensive experience, she cultivates a serene environment that reflects her commitment to Zen, inspiring others to find balance and tranquility in their lives).

Mandarin Orange Recipes: Reviving Leftover Sustainable Eats

The festival season and our current Chinese New Year, marked by communal meals and expressions of love, often leave us with delightful leftovers. Even the fruits, integral to these celebrations, like mandarin oranges and others, may find their way into the surplus. So, what do you do with these remnants?

Before delving into creative recipes, let's take a moment to consider those around the world who may not have enough to eat. This reminder prompts us to embrace sustainable living, a crucial aspect of sustainable development. As a first step, consider freezing or storing both the leftover dishes and fruits, as I'm about to guide you through some fantastic recipes to make the most of them (MANDARIN ORANGE PLEASURES: WELLNESS CAKE, SORBET & MARMALADE). 

Kalyana Virundhu Cafe - Dining Experience

On this particular Sunday, the delightful quest for a dining spot led us to Kalyana Virundhu Cafe (10G, Jalan Kemuning Prima F33/F, Kemuning Utama Shah Alam, 40400 Selangor), an addition to the Indian food scene and conveniently situated not far from our residence in Kemuning Greenville, Shah Alam. As always, my husband's unwavering love for Indian cuisine (The Grand Mapillai) contrasts with my enthusiasm for exploring diverse culinary experiences (Exploring A Kopitiam), making the decision a harmonious one in our culinary journey.