Thursday, August 15, 2024
Sunny Lamb Traditional Apam Balik: A Street Food Delight
Chinese Ginseng Chicken Soup & Other Nourishing Recipes
(Updated Version)
Roots, barks, herbs, and chicken - these are the essential ingredients for Chinese Ginseng Chicken Soup. Unlike the potent and bitter Korean ginseng, which I’ve tried and found too intense to digest (it made me feel like my body was on fire!), Chinese ginseng is milder, even in soups. I particularly enjoy homemade, healthy, and nutritious Chinese soups.
Making any soup, including Chinese Ginseng Chicken Soup, is really straightforward. If anyone claims they can’t make this soup, I’d be surprised (HANDCRAFTED FISH BALL NOODLE SOUP). It's as simple as adding all the ingredients - roots, barks, and other medicinal herbs from a Chinese medical hall or provision shop - into a slow cooker or simmering on very low heat over the stove.
Wednesday, August 14, 2024
Mental Health and Productivity: The Case for Corporate Yoga
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
Corporate
wellness programs are increasingly emphasizing mindfulness, mental health, and
work-life balance, yet yoga often remains sidelined. This abstract examines the
integration of yoga into corporate wellness initiatives and the benefits it
offers. Despite the growing popularity of mindfulness practices such as
meditation and breathwork, which originate from yoga philosophy, many
organizations overlook yoga's comprehensive benefits. This study explores the
disconnect between the promotion of wellness practices and the actual
incorporation of yoga into corporate programs. It highlights the extensive
benefits of corporate yoga, including improved mental clarity, stress
reduction, physical health, and enhanced workplace morale.
Monday, August 12, 2024
Pulut Inti: Classic Malaysian Glutinous Rice with Sweet Coconut
(Updated Version)
When it comes to cooking, do you really need every ingredient listed in a recipe? Not necessarily. If you’re the type who follows recipes to the letter, you might feel compelled to gather every single ingredient. But if you’re like Ms. Nava, you’ll consider what you already have and adapt the recipe accordingly (MALAY DESSERTS MADE SIMPLE).
Making do with what you have often involves a bit of creative thinking and improvisation. Take, for example, making pulut inti. Traditionally, it requires banana leaves, but if you’re missing them, why not adapt? I did just that using my Pyrex dish to craft a delicious serving of Pulut Inti. See? You don’t need everything to be perfect to be a food hero (KUIH SAGO KUKUS).
Sambal Tumis Telur/Egg Sambal: Urban Garden's Spicy Trio
(Updated
Version)
A little creativity in the kitchen can lead to a delightful revelation of flavors. Indeed, it can. For years, I’ve been making sambal telur, or egg sambal, which traditionally consists of boiled eggs simmered in a spicy chili-based gravy. Over time, I discovered that adding dried shrimp or prawns elevates this dish to a whole new level. The best part? The sambal, enriched with these dried shrimp, resembles the flavor profile of canned dried prawn sambal, which, for me, is perfect for spreading on toast with cucumber slices. Doesn’t that sound fabulous? Of course, it does!
Sunday, August 11, 2024
Reviving Minds: Yoga’s Impact on Mental Health
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
Yoga,
an ancient practice combining breathwork, physical postures, and mindfulness,
has emerged as a potent tool for improving mental health. This article
investigates the therapeutic benefits of yoga in addressing stress, anxiety,
and depression. It reviews recent academic studies to highlight how yoga's
integrative approach - through breath regulation, mindful movement, and
relaxation - enhances emotional resilience and mental clarity. The paper
contrasts yoga with conventional mental health interventions and emphasizes its
role as a complementary therapy. By examining current evidence and theoretical
perspectives, the study advocates for the integration of yoga into mental
health practices, underscoring its potential to rejuvenate and stabilize the
mind amidst the demands of modern life.
Keywords: Yoga, Mental Health, Stress Relief, Anxiety Management, Depression, Breathwork, Mindfulness, Emotional Resilience, Complementary Therapy.
Saturday, August 10, 2024
FIsh Ball Noodle Soup: Handcrafted Fish Balls & Homemade Broth
Forget those store-bought fish balls! We're diving into the delicious world of homemade Fish Ball Noodle Soup, and yes, you heard it right - I made these fish balls from scratch. Shocking, isn't it? Especially for someone who often takes the easy route with pre-made ingredients. But this time, I went all in, and trust me, it was worth every minute (FRIED NOODLES ECSTASY).
Why go through all the trouble, you ask? Well, besides the satisfaction of making something from scratch (MEE SIAM KUAH VEGETARIAN), I wanted that rich, flavorful fish broth you get from simmering the bones and skin. And let me tell you, we had an absolute ball with this dish! These fish balls were bouncy, soft, and completely odor-free, swimming in a broth made from simmered fish bones and skin.
Nescafe Chocolate Cake (Eggless): Simplicity Wins
Buying ingredients is one thing, but actually using them up? That's a whole different ball game. I mean, who wants to see their hard-earned money go to waste? Not me! Take this box of fancy cocoa powder I bought - it's like the never-ending story. Seriously, it feels like it’s multiplying in the pantry. Maybe I was a bit overenthusiastic at the store, or maybe it's just one of those things that doesn't come in a small size. You know what I mean?
So, here I am, determined to finish this cocoa powder before it expires. And guess what? I’m storing it in the fridge because, let's face it, our Malaysian weather can turn cocoa into a science experiment if you leave it out too long. And since I was on a mission to use it up, I thought, why not whip up a Nescafe Chocolate Cake? I mean, why bother buying more coffee (EGGLESS MILO CAKE) when I’ve got Nescafe right here? So, here’s a cake that’s got it all: coffee, cocoa, and no eggs. It’s like a delicious dark knight in cake form - rich, moist, and vanilla-scented (SUJEE CAKE ELEGANCE).
Friday, August 9, 2024
Loneliness Amongst Older Indians in Malaysia
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
Loneliness
among older adults, particularly within the Indian community in Malaysia,
presents a significant issue exacerbated by cultural and social dynamics. This
article explores the manifestations and contributing factors of loneliness
among older Indian individuals, focusing on their interactions, social
behaviors, and the impact of modern technology. The study highlights how older
Indians exhibit heightened levels of loneliness compared to other ethnic
groups, influenced by societal changes and family dynamics. Key findings reveal
that loneliness is frequently expressed through excessive social media use,
persistent communication attempts, and the seeking of validation through
personal achievements.
Wednesday, August 7, 2024
Penang Food Adventures: Mainland Discoveries
Chai Leng Park Hawker Food Stalls (Butterworth)
Cleanliness and hygiene may not be the selling point here, but for those of us who prioritize flavor over frills, this spot hits the spot. Picture this: you're a typical Malaysian, unfazed by seating arrangements, just eager to dig into deliciousness. That's where Chai Leng Park Hawker Food Stalls come in.
Saturday, August 3, 2024
Malu Kirata: Sri Lankan Fish Coconut Milk Curry Redefined
Malu Kirata is a traditional Sri Lankan fish curry, typically made with fish, coconut milk, and a blend of spices. (KIRI HODI: SRI LANKAN EGG COCONUT MILK STEW). While I don’t have the exact recipe, I know it features fish in a coconut milk curry or gravy. Inspired by this dish, I created my own version of Malu Kirata, or Sri Lankan Fish Coconut Milk Curry. It may not be the traditional recipe, but it's definitely worth trying (MEEN PUTTU).
Fish is a staple in my cooking, especially since it's my husband's favorite. I love experimenting with different styles, and one of my go-to methods is frying mackerel, which resembles the Sri Lankan style known as Maalu Badun. Here's my take on Sri Lankan-style fried fish, as well as another favorite, Kehel Kole Maalu (Banana Leaf Fish).
Friday, August 2, 2024
Kiri Hodi: Sri Lankan Coconut Milk Stew with Boiled Eggs
Kiri Hodi is the Sri Lankan version of coconut milk stew, known in Kerala as Ishtu and in Malaysia as Sodhi. This delightful stew typically features a base of coconut milk, turmeric, fenugreek seeds, onions or shallots, green chilies, tomatoes, curry leaves, lime juice, and salt. From this foundational blend, you can modify or enhance the stew by adding various ingredients like vegetables.
Meen Puttu: A South Indian Classic
If shark isn’t your choice, you can use mackerel or another fish. It’s worth noting that the shark used in meen/fish puttu, often smaller species like "sura meen," is not the same as the large sharks used for shark fin soup. The smaller sharks used here are caught for their meat, ensuring a more sustainable approach.
Thursday, August 1, 2024
Penang Sightseeing: The Wonders of Malaysia
Kek Lok Si Temple (Air Itam, Balik Pulau)
Stepping into Kek Lok Si Temple, a legendary and historical treasure nestled
against a hill slope, I immersed myself in Malaysia's rich Buddhist
heritage. The tranquil "Pond of Longevity" greeted me, followed by
the awe-inspiring Pagoda of Rama VI. Inside, I marveled at the array of
statues, including the iconic Laughing Buddha. Ascending via the funicular
railway, I reached the hilltop to encounter the impressive bronze statue of
Kuan Yin, surrounded by serene spots like the Water Pavilion and Zodiac Garden.
Gazing at the breathtaking panoramic view (LANGKAWI ISLAND HOPPING), I departed, filled with awe and
reverence.
Monday, July 29, 2024
Milo Cake With Milo Glaze (Eggless)
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I must confess, I’m not exactly a master baker. My baking ventures are rare and usually happen only when I have a bit of time to spare. I bake not to dazzle, but to satisfy my curiosity about whether baking really is as remarkable as some enthusiasts claim. It’s always better to discover things for ourselves rather than relying solely on others’ opinions. So, without any need for proving anything to anyone, let’s see if this Milo Cake with Milo Glaze (Eggless) can stand on its own (SUJEE CAKE & CLASSIC, MARBLE LEMON BUTTER CAKES)
This recipe isn’t originally mine; I stumbled upon it while browsing through instructables. Unlike some of my past baking experiments from the internet that ended in disaster, this one seemed promising. I opted for Milo instead of cocoa powder - mainly because that tin of Milo has been languishing in my pantry for ages, and it felt like the perfect time to put it to good use, especially since we’re more of a coffee-drinking household.
Sunday, July 28, 2024
Resilience of an Older Indian Woman Entrepreneur in Malaysia
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 resilience of an older
Indian woman entrepreneur in Malaysia, detailing her journey through various
challenges and learning experiences. The discussion encompasses digital
marketing difficulties, harassment, and the nuances of networking, revealing
how these factors shape the entrepreneurial path. Additionally, it examines the
impact of outsourcing, the authenticity of awards and recognitions, and the
complex dynamics of social media presence.
Easy Prawn Laksa Recipe: A Delicious Noodle Dish
(Updated Version) Are you intimidated by the thought of making laksa? Please don’t be, and don’t let others tell you it’s difficult. People...
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(Updated Version) Ever heard of a golden-hued coconut milk stew? For the Indian community in Malaysia, it's known as sodhi, a creamy, co...
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(Updated Version) Ever wondered how many urban dwellers are secretly urban gardeners? Well, I’m proud to say I’m one of them. In our lit...
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(Updated Version) As I reflect on my cooking routine ( SOUTH INDIAN STYLE FISH CURRY ), one dish stands out time and again - Salted Fish ...