Must-See Landmarks in Rome, Italy

Thinking back on my travels, there's something truly soul-stirring about those journeys. Traveling has a way of deeply touching your Zen soul, leaving an imprint on every part of your being, including your breath to your body, and mind. Even years later, those moments remain etched in memory (PRETORIA SOUTH AFRICA) & CAPE TOWN SOUTH AFRICA).  

My first overseas trip took me to Italy, a destination cherished by people from all corners of the globe. The excitement of the journey kept me awake on the night flight. Arriving at Rome airport, a sense of anticipation filled me. After a quick refresh in the washroom, our guide led us to the coach to begin our sightseeing adventure, starting with Vatican City (Seoul Through My Eyes). .

Zen Style Chronicles: The Serene Aura of Home Attire

In today's Zen Style spotlight, let's explore the serene world of home attire. Let's start with a simple question: What's your go-to outfit for lounging at home? This seemingly straightforward inquiry often invites introspection. Do you immediately have an answer, or do you pause to reflect?

As for me, comfort reigns supreme: I opt for shorts and a t-shirt, a choice deeply rooted in familiarity and ease. However, memories of my upbringing alongside my late mother remind me that wearing shorts was once frowned upon in our cultural context. Nevertheless, as I've journeyed through life, I've embraced this relaxed attire, a preference that persists even at the age of 59.

Weighty Issues: Challenges in Healthcare Wellness

Two months ago, my husband was hospitalized for dengue fever. During his week-long stay at the medical center, I couldn't help but notice something concerning among the staff - quite a number were overweight or obese. This raised a red flag as even some doctors displayed protruding stomachs and sluggish movements. It's ironic that while doctors advise patients on diet and exercise, they themselves struggle with obesity.

Nava's Zen Unveiled: Beyond Yoga Asanas

As the founder of Nava's Zen (Nature's Melody) and your in-house yoga coach, let me share a bit of my journey with you. For me, yoga isn't just about striking poses or sweating it out on the mat - it's a profound practice that touches every aspect of our being (Menopause & Yoga Discovery).

I've seen many people miss the true essence of yoga, reducing it to nothing more than physical exercise. But let me tell you, it's so much more than that. It's about finding balance in every breath, every movement, every thought, and every emotion.

 

So, if you're expecting a simple workout routine, you might be in for a surprise. Because yoga, my friend, is a journey - a journey that takes you deep within yourself, where you discover strength, flexibility, and resilience you never knew you had (The Power Of Yoga).

KKSV Restaurant: Malaysian Coffeeshop Eating Culture

Formerly recognized as Restoran Poh Yap, this establishment underwent refurbishment a few months ago and now goes by the name KKSV Restaurant. The makeover includes an expanded, air-conditioned dining area. While some familiar stalls, like the Pork Noodles, remain, new additions have also been introduced, creating an exciting blend of the traditional and the novel (Exploring A Kopitiam).

Bay Leaves: Health Benefits and Cooking Uses

(Updated Version)
In Malaysia, bay leaves are somewhat unfamiliar, with many people unsure of their appearance or uses. Some wonder if these are the same leaves used in biryani rice - referring to the dried ones commonly found in stores. It might seem surprising, but bay leaves offer a wealth of health benefits, making them a valuable addition to any pantry (GROWING SPRING ONIONS IN URBAN GARDENS).

Health Benefits of Bay Leaves

Here are some key health benefits of bay leaves: 

Heart Health

Bay leaves help lower bad cholesterol levels and strengthen blood vessels, reducing heart disease risk.

Easy Vegetarian Salads: Quick and Nutritious Recipes

How do salads come to life in my kitchen? It all starts with a quick scan of my fridge and pantry - spotting veggies and fruits that might not last much longer. Waste is something I’m mindful of, so I prioritize ingredients that need to be used up soon. For me, this approach is part of mindful living (INDIAN VEGETARIAN KACHUMBER SALAD).

The vegetarian salad recipes I’m sharing are incredibly easy and adaptable. They incorporate what are traditionally considered Western ingredients, which have become staples in Asian kitchens, including here in Malaysia (TURMERIC EGGS).

Eco-Friendly Habits Made Easy

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Most of the time, we continue with habits without considering their consequences. These habits, often picked up unknowingly, can harm our planet if we don't change. Take a moment now, less than 5 minutes, to consider these eco-friendly habits. You’ll thank Ms. Nava later.

Walk Instead of Drive

Next time you're heading somewhere nearby, walk instead of driving. Driving emits toxic gases that pollute the air and speed up climate change. Every trip adds more CO2 to the atmosphere, draining our planet’s resources. Walking, on the other hand, boosts your health and reduces pollution. It’s not just about saving the planet; it’s about improving your own well-being. I enjoy my slow walks to the shops - it’s a way to stretch my eyes and appreciate the surroundings (SIMPLE MENTAL HEALTH TIPS).

Toyo Bowl Delights: Supporting Local Taste

In every collaboration at Nava's Zen, I maintain the tradition of treating my collaborator to a meal - a small token of gratitude for their time and contributions to my growth. I usually opt for online ordering, focusing on healthy food. Despite established choices in the healthy food industry, my recent preference was deliberately a smaller-scale restaurant. This decision aligns with my commitment to supporting small businesses, recognizing the impact of mutual support in our growth journeys.

Using Grab, I ordered from Toyo Bowl (Jalan Kenari, Puchong Jaya), selecting Lemongrass Lime Chicken (RM24.90) and Veg Portobello Bowl (RM18.90). 

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.