Mandarin Orange Recipes: Zen Wellness Cake, Sorbet & Marmalade

(Updated Version)

Every year, those mandarins start rolling in like an unexpected gold rush. You know the drill- people you barely see suddenly become your best friends, just as their surplus of mandarins is about to turn into compost. They play it sly, waiting until they’ve exhausted all other options and then “generously” pass on the citrus burden to you. It’s a guilt trip wrapped in orange peel, hitting all the right notes of “Indian sentiment,” though oddly enough, you’re never on their invite list for Chinese New Year festivities.

 

Ah, cultural quirks in Malaysia! It’s a dance of exchange and expectations. Deepavali might have you knee-deep in preparations and guests, but when it comes to Chinese New Year, you get the oranges and the occasional cookie—no dinner invites or grand feasts for you.

Erectile Dysfunction and Libido in Modern Men: Yoga's Natural Remedy

Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at 58. With 22 years as a lecturer, including 13 years in the Curtin University of Technology Perth, Australia Degree Twinning Program, she is now a certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. Her expertise enriches her current work.

Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED) and reduced libido present profound challenges for men, intertwined with complex emotional and physical struggles. This article investigates the transformative role of yoga as a holistic remedy for these conditions, presenting it as a powerful complement to traditional treatments. Yoga offers multifaceted benefits: it enhances blood circulation, alleviates stress, balances hormones, and improves overall physical health, all of which contribute to enhanced sexual performance and libido. Beyond its physical advantages, yoga cultivates a deeper mind-body connection, boosts self-confidence, and fosters emotional well-being.

Asam Laksa Recipe: Nyonya Style

(Updated Version)

A bowl of vibrant broth, noodles, and a mix of fresh ingredients - this is the essence of Asam Laksa (PENANG GUIDE: WHERE & WHAT TO EAT). While the standard version is well-loved, have you tried Nyonya Asam Laksa? Let me share my take on this flavorful dish (MALACCA'S FOOD FIESTA). But before we dive into the recipe, here’s what you need to know when preparing Asam Laksa:

 

Fish Type 

I use sardines and Indian mackerel, but feel free to experiment with other fish to discover your preferred flavor.

Chinese Prawn Recipes: 4 Varieties

(Updated Version)

Prawn dishes are not a regular feature in my house; they’re more like a once-a-month treat. However, having cooked for so many years, I’ve prepared a variety of prawn dishes, including Chinese prawn varieties. What I like about Chinese dishes is that they are quick to cook, provided the ingredients are prepared and ready near the wok (PRAWN SAMBAL NYONYA STYLE). 

Red Rubies in Coconut Milk: Dessert Recipe

(Updated Version)
From my journeys across Thailand (CHIANG MAI ENRICHING TOUR), I’ve experienced the rich diversity of Thai cuisine, savoring everything from fiery tom yam to tangy salads (TOM YAM TEMPTATION). But one dish that always leaves me craving for more is the delightful Thai dessert, Tam Tim Krob - better known as "Red Rubies." While you can easily find this gem in Thai restaurants in Malaysia, there’s nothing quite like making it yourself, though my first two attempts were anything but disaster. 

Imagine my excitement in Thailand when I tried to recreate the dessert after a local shared some insider tips (BANGKOK SOLO ADVENTURE). I confidently headed back home, but alas, my red rubies crumbled. Not one to give up, I turned to online resources and tried again - only to face yet another failure. It was on my third attempt that I finally cracked the code.

Obesity in Indian Women in Malaysia: Yoga as Holistic Wellness

Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at 58. With 22 years as a lecturer, including 13 years in the Curtin University of Technology Perth, Australia Degree Twinning Program, she is now a certified yoga instructor, coach, and counselor. Her expertise enriches her current work.

Abstract
This article explores the complex relationship between social media, weight perception, and weight management among Indian women. It examines how social media celebrates body diversity and sometimes downplays the health risks of obesity. The article focuses on the significant role of yoga in promoting mindful weight management and addressing challenges such as self-esteem issues, eating habits, and societal pressures faced by overweight women.

The article underscores yoga’s holistic benefits for weight loss, mental clarity, and overall well-being, advocating for a balanced approach to health that integrates physical exercise with mindful eating practices. The findings suggest that while social media plays a significant role in shaping body image and weight management behaviors, a nuanced understanding of its impact and a comprehensive approach to wellness are crucial for achieving sustainable health outcomes.

Hong Kong-Style Wonton Noodle Soup: Prawn, Chicken & Pork Wanton

(Updated Version)

Why not make Hong Kong Wonton Noodle Soup in your Malaysian kitchen? Who says you can't? Not me - I’ve already shown you can! Here’s a little confession: I’ve never actually been to Hong Kong (SINGAPORE LAKSA MS. NAVA'S VERSION). But isn’t it refreshing to hear someone like Ms. Nava keeping it real in a world full of fakes, especially on social media?

I’ve certainly enjoyed my fair share of Hong Kong-style dishes right here in Malaysia. From devouring Hong Kong Wonton Noodle Soups multiple times to savoring both Prawn and Pork Chee Cheong Fun from local coffee shop stalls, it’s clear that you don’t need to travel to Hong Kong to enjoy authentic flavors (SARAWAK LAKSA CREATIVE FLAIR).

Sri Lankan Carrot Salad: Healthy No-Cook Recipes

(Updated Version)

Sri Lankan cuisine is a symphony of flavors, where spices and fresh coconut - either as creamy coconut milk or raw - play the lead role. During my seven-day trip in Sri Lanka, I was blown away by the vibrant dishes (COLOMBO DISCOVERY & KANDY SRI LANKA). Not a single meal disappointed, and I even picked up a few new recipes along the way, despite being no stranger to Sri Lankan cooking.

These recipes are not just about taste (SRI LANKAN FISH COCONUT MILK CURRY) - they embody healthy, nutritious eating and align perfectly with the much-loved Zen holistic wellness approach, emphasizing mindful eating and balance.

Wajik Pulut: Glutinous Rice Cake Recipe

(Updated Version)

Wajik Pulut, the dark glossy brown sticky Malaysian rice cakes, as I translate it. Made with white glutinous rice, coconut milk, palm sugar, and pandan leaves for a fragrant scent – these ingredients are staples in many Malaysian desserts (PULUT INTI RECIPE). Traditionally, Wajik Pulut involves steaming glutinous rice, then stirring it into a mixture of coconut milk, palm sugar, and scented with pandan leaves. Watching my mother prepare it taught me the patience required for this delicate process. However, I’ve simplified the recipe, reducing the amount of coconut milk and palm sugar to create a version that is still rich in flavor but not overly indulgent. It turned out well (SAGU GULA MELAKA RECIPE). How about giving it a try?

Penang Food Finds: Classic Eateries and Hidden Gems

Hey foodies! It's time for another food adventure (BUTTERWORTH FOOD ADVENTURE), and this time we've landed on Penang Island. This place is a true food paradise (MALACCA TRIALS) with so many options to choose from. Even though I've been to Penang Island 8 times already, there's always a new eatery waiting to be discovered. Here are the spots I've tried so far (KOTA KINABALU FOOD SPOTTING), and I'm excited to share them with all of you.

Paal Sangam Café (Jalan Dato Keramat, George Town)

Paal Sangam Café did not disappoint! Their vegetarian banana leaf lunch was fantastic. The Tofu Sambal, Stir Fried Beansprout, Potato Podimas, Chutney, and Curries all tasted truly authentic. It's definitely some of the best vegetarian food around. I loved it, although the Kesari (Indian Semolina Cake) was a bit dry. The service was a bit slow due to peak lunch hour, but it was worth the wait.