Tuesday, June 25, 2024

Panty Picks: Exploring Today's Trendy Styles


Is it really as simple as just saying, "Time to replenish my undies," and heading to the store? Do you stick to the tried-and-true styles you've always loved, or are you on the lookout for the latest trends? Maybe you want to experiment with a different type this time around. And then there's the big question - are you even wearing the right panties? Or do you just grab whatever covers the essentials and call it a day?

The panties market has seen some huge changes in recent years. Every time you shop, you're likely to find new styles and trends. Panties have gone through their share of transformations, offering more choices than ever before (FITNESS BRA).

Monday, June 24, 2024

Karaikudi Kozhi Kuzhumbu/Chicken Curry


Karaikudi chicken curry, a delightful South Indian dish from Tamil Nadu's Chettinad region, is famed for its bold, spicy, and aromatic flavors. But have you explored "Ms. Nava's" take on this classic? Isn't cooking more about infusing your unique touch than simply following recipes? While I stay true to the essential spices for authenticity, my Malaysian Karaikudi Chicken Curry offers a distinct twist (CHANDIGARH MARVELS & NEW DELHI SOUL).

Imagine relishing tender chicken pieces in a luscious, spicy, and tangy curry atop fragrant saffron rice, alongside Cabbage Kootu (Cabbage Dal). Doesn't it tempt your palate with its myriad of flavors and enticing aroma? Ready to give it a try and perhaps send a heartfelt thanks to Ms. Nava for her delightful recipes? 

Sunday, June 23, 2024

Simple and Hearty Lamb Soup: A Comforting Classic

Comforting lamb soup cooked with carrots and potatoes
Simplicity is always the best, don’t you agree? There’s something special about enjoying a dish that’s both simple and delicious, especially when it comes to a hearty lamb soup (LAMB KHEEMA/SPICY MINCED LAMB). 

Oh my! Just imagine savoring a bowl of this comforting soup after a tiring day or when the weather turns chilly or rainy. The sheer pleasure of slurping it up, perhaps with a piece of toast for dipping, makes it even more satisfying. What I love about lamb is its tenderness compared to mutton (CHETTINAD AND MUTTON CHUKKA), which means you can skip the pressure cooker. 

Of course, feel free to use mutton bones if that’s your preference. One thing is for sure: with fresh veggies and aromatic spices, this simple and hearty lamb soup is Zen nourishing for the breath, body, mind, and soul.

Bergen Travel Guide: Visiting Norway, Europe

Tourist with a red umbrella at Bergen Aquarium with penguins in the background
Bergen, located on the west coast of Norway (THINGS TO EXPERIENCE IN NORWAY), is the country’s second-largest city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its picturesque harbor, surrounding mountains, and frequent rainfall, Bergen has earned the nickname "the city of rain." Despite its wet weather, the city is famous for its charm, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. Founded over 900 years ago, it has long been a hub for trade, particularly as part of the Hanseatic League, and its well-preserved architecture and historical sites offer a glimpse into the past. With its location near the fjords, Bergen also serves as the gateway to some of Norway’s most famous natural wonders, making it a popular destination for travelers (COPENHAGEN, DENMARK CASTLES).

Saturday, June 22, 2024

Masi Magam Thiruvizha/Festival, Pulau Pangkor


I am definitely not the most devout person. I certainly don’t look like one, alright? But I believe deeply in my religion, Hinduism. You won't find me in the temple, fervently praying and performing rituals, because my philosophy towards Hinduism is that being a good human is what being religious truly means. Are you a good human (CHANDIGARH INDIA TEMPLES)

When I was invited to attend the Pulau Pangkor Masi Magam Thiruvizha, or festival, I thought, why not? It would be my first experience, and I was eager to see what it was all about. My friend took care of all the arrangements, including transport. On Sunday, we departed from Klang Sentral Bus Terminal and arrived in Lumut by late afternoon for the ferry ride to Pulau Pangkor (CHENNAI TEMPLES & NEW DELHI TEMPLES).

Easy Chickpea Spinach Curry with Coconut Milk

Thick, vibrant chickpea spinach curry with coconut milk in a see-through Pyrex dish

Chickpeas cooked with spinach and enriched with creamy coconut milk - doesn’t that sound fabulous? Why not? At Nava’s Zen, spinach is one of the many things we grow. Different varieties thrive here, and some even sprout up unexpectedly, much to my surprise.

 

This dish, known as Chole Palak in India, isn’t something I often see prepared in Indian households in Malaysia - curious, isn’t it? No matter. Here, Ms. Nava is delighted to share her version of this recipe. It’s vegetarian, vegan, and oh-so-luscious, creamy, aromatic, and absolutely delicious.

Tuesday, June 18, 2024

Easy South Indian Fish Curries: Coconut & Veggie Options

South Indian fish curry with coconut milk, served with half a salted egg, simmered green Japanese beans, and rice on a banana leaf
This is one of the easiest South Indian-inspired fish curries with a Malaysian twist (TURMERIC FISH). No grinding or roasting is needed - just pantry-friendly ingredients and store-bought curry powder. In Malaysia, we often add veggies to fish curry, such as okra (ladies' fingers) or brinjal, though South Indian fish curries traditionally don’t include them. This version, adapted by Ms. Nava, brings a unique Malaysian flair (LAMB KEEMA/SPICY MINCED LAMB). Here, I’m sharing two variations: a Fish Curry with Coconut Milk and another with Okra. Feel free to add your choice of vegetables to either recipe.

Things to Experience in Norway

Fjord cruise scenery with a woman tourist jumping in happiness
Exploring the Scenic Beauty of Vossestrand and Beyond

The next morning, we set off for Vossestrand, a picturesque destination known for its stunning landscapes and natural beauty (OSLO NORWAY ATTRACTIONS). The drive, though long, was an adventure in itself, filled with several stops to take in the incredible surroundings. Towering mountains, lush valleys, and tranquil lakes lined the road, transforming each stretch into a living postcard. The untouched nature seemed endless, making every turn feel like a new discovery.

Friday, June 14, 2024

Mango Salad Recipe: Vegetarian & Nyonya Style

Vegetarian mango salad with sliced green mango, sliced red chili, fried shallots, roasted sesame seeds, and coriander leaves
The love for mango salad doesn’t need words to express. It’s all about a dish that bursts with flavor and excites your taste buds - don’t you agree? This vegetarian, Nyonya-style mango salad is a perfect choice for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. Minimalist and easy to prepare, it’s a refreshing addition to any meal.

 

Just one tip: mango salad is best consumed immediately after it’s made. This helps retain its freshness and prevents it from becoming soggy over time.

Thursday, June 13, 2024

Easy Tips for Healthy Eating Habits

Woman smiling to represent easy healthy eating habits
We’ve discussed how what we eat affects our health. But staying healthy isn’t just about eating salads all day. It's about cultivating healthy eating habits that contribute to a balanced lifestyle - not just for weight loss, but for overall well-being (LOSE WEIGHT FAST: THE HEALTHY WAY). Wouldn’t you be interested in discovering healthy eating habits that are simple, sustainable, and effective?

Mastering Meal Planning

Meal planning is the cornerstone of mindful eating. It’s about making decisions ahead of time, rather than acting on impulse. Whether you plan for a day or a week, having a meal plan keeps you aware of what, when, and where you eat. This practice also helps you organize your grocery list, ensuring you have the right ingredients on hand.

Oslo, Norway: Top Attractions and Things to Do

Malaysian Indian woman tourist happily posing with the two kids naked stone sculptures in Frogner Park Norway
Akershus Fortress: A Glimpse into Oslo’s Pas
Our first stop (COPENHAGEN: KRONBORG CASTLE) was Akershus Fortress, a historical gem dating back to 1290, originally constructed to defend Oslo from invasions. This impressive stone structure has served various roles over the centuries, including a royal residence and a military base. Walking through the grounds, we admired the views over the harbor and Oslofjord, along with the beautiful rose garden. Though we couldn’t enter the Armed Forces Museum, it’s a must-visit for military history enthusiasts. Akershus offers a unique mix of history, beauty, and tranquility - a perfect way to start our day (PERTH, AUSTRALIA: ATTRACTIONS & DINING).

Monday, June 10, 2024

Lamb Keema Recipe - Spiced Minced Lamb

A plate of spiced minced lamb, cooked with spices, and potato, garnished with coriander leaves
Ms. Nava presents lamb keema, a savory and versatile dish that varies across different regions, each with its unique twist (MUTTON RENDANG: CLASSIC AND TRADITIONAL). This flavorful preparation typically features minced lamb, enhanced by a blend of aromatic spices. Depending on personal preference, you can incorporate ingredients such as potatoes and green peas for added texture and taste. The process of making keema is straightforward and accessible, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying meal (EASY MUTTON CURRY). Additionally, I will share creative ways to repurpose any leftover keema into lighter dishes for future enjoyment.

Copenhagen, Denmark: Frederiksborg and Kronborg Castle

Malaysian Indian lady tourist posing in front of Danish Frederiksborg Slot, Copenhagen, Denmark
After a hotel breakfast (COPENHAGEN: BEST PLACES TO VISIT), we embarked on an exciting journey to explore two of Denmark’s most magnificent castles. Frederiksborg and Kronborg are more than just historic sites—they’re stunning symbols of Danish heritage.

Frederiksborg Castle

Our adventure began with Frederiksborg Castle, also known as Frederiksborg Slot. Situated on three small islands surrounded by a tranquil lake, this Renaissance marvel stands as the largest of its kind in Scandinavia. The castle’s red-brick towers, lush gardens, and scenic lake views took my breath away the moment we arrived.

Saturday, June 8, 2024

Tom Yum Soup Recipes: 3 Delicious Variations

A bowl of fiery and spicy seafood tom yum soup, garnished with Thai basil leaves
(Updated Version)
Life without Tom Yam feels like a story missing its climax- a culinary journey left unfinished. Imagine vibrant Thai flavors awakening your taste buds with each spoonful of this iconic soup. My love for Tom Yam deepened during my adventures in Thailand, especially in Krabi and Phuket, where I couldn’t resist its tempting allure. While some bowls packed a spicy punch that left me reaching for tissues, the truly delicious ones warmed both my mouth and soul. Now, I’m excited to share how you can bring the flavors of Tom Yam into your home.

Tom Yam Paste: A Shortcut to Flavor
For an easy cooking journey, you can use ready-made Tom Yam paste from Thailand or local Malaysian brands. It’s a convenient option for achieving authentic flavor effortlessly.

Best Yoga Benefits: Overcoming The Fear

Yoga instructor taking a selfie in front of the mirror after a yoga session
(UPDATED VERSION)

Holistic wellness is here to stay and will lead the way for the 21st century. At Nava’s Zen, we are guided by sustainable zenness - a balanced, enduring state of mental clarity and peace achieved through mindful living practices. 

This approach emphasizes small, consistent habits like meditation, self-awareness, and eco-conscious choices integrated into daily life. By aligning with inner harmony and the environment, sustainable zenness fosters long-term well-being and a deeper connection to the world (BREATHWORK: A BEGINNER'S GUIDE).

Spiced Pumpkin Masala Recipe - Indian Style

(Updated Version) The sweetness of pumpkin, cooked in a rich spiced masala paste. This is a pumpkin dish revelation - a true delight for you...