Hokkien Hae Mee, Penang Hae Mee, Prawn Mee & Mee Yoke Recipes

(Updated Version)

Hokkien Hae Mee, or Hokkien Prawn Mee, is a prawn noodle dish that revolves around its star ingredient - the prawn stock. This rich, savory essence forms the heart of this beloved Malaysian Chinese classic (HAND CRAFTED FISH BALL NOODLE SOUP). While the photos of Hae Mee dishes might look intricate and intimidating, don’t be discouraged. With the right ingredients and a bit of kitchen confidence, you can easily recreate this dish at home.

In today’s world, capturing that perfect Hae Mee shot is more about smartphone skills than anything else. It’s all in how you style the dish, choose your props, and present the meal. But don’t get too caught up in the visual showmanship. The truth is, anyone can master this flavorful prawn noodle dish, and that includes you.

Aging Faster Today: Yoga as a Natural Anti-Aging Therapy

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 paper explores the profound benefits of yoga as a natural remedy for anti-aging, contrasting it with contemporary quick-fix solutions and aesthetic treatments. Yoga is presented not merely as a physical exercise but as a holistic approach that nurtures the breath, body, mind, and soul, offering significant advantages for maintaining a youthful appearance and overall vitality. The paper highlights how yoga fosters genuine skin nourishment and rejuvenation, reducing the reliance on heavy makeup and superficial enhancements. However, it also cautions against overdoing yoga, as excessive practice can lead to fatigue, injury, and may paradoxically accelerate the aging process.

Tamatar ki Chutney, Takkali Thokku & Tomato Rice

(Updated Version)

Tamatar ki Chutney is a tomato-based chutney, known in the Punjabi language as "Tamatar ki Chutney," and is a dish from the North Indian region (INDIAN DESSERTS TO SAVOR). Tomatoes are a staple in many curries (CHANDIGARH NORTH INDIA MARVELS), and when used to make chutney, they create a spicy, tangy, and aromatic thick gravy. This chutney pairs well with chapati, paratha, dosai, and even idli. However, I recently paired it with our side dishes for a rice meal instead (VEGETARIAN MUTTON GASTRONOMY).

There’s also Takkali Thokku, which I consider another version of tomato chutney. Though it shares similarities with Tamatar ki Chutney, it differs slightly in its ingredients. The recipe I’m sharing is my own version. Plus, I’ll also show you how to make tomato rice. You have choices when it comes to cooking with tomatoes, don’t you? Isn’t it wonderful that Ms. Nava offers you these choices?

Classic Genoise: A European-Style Sponge Cake

(Updated Version)

There’s something about people who bake, have you noticed? Sorry for generalizing, but in my experience, many of these people seem to be full of hot air. They act as if they’re a class above the rest, especially those who don’t bake. Beyond being proud hosts, they can’t stop bragging about how well they bake. And it’s not just about them - they’ll go on about how great their family members bake, even people they barely know. Apparently, everyone in their world bakes superbly. Welcome to the world where, if you can bake, you’re a shining star.

 

But for people like Ms. Nava, baking is about learning. I started baking to understand the techniques and skills involved. I even earned credentials in baking, though I never put them to much use. For me, it’s all about practice - improving and advancing my baking skills. I’ve also baked Lamingtons before, but unfortunately, the recipe has gone missing. No worries, though - in the virtual world, there are hundreds, if not millions, of people sharing cake recipes (INDULGENT CHEESECAKE DELIGHTS).

Sunny Lamb Traditional Apam Balik: A Street Food Delight

While out buying groceries, I stumbled upon Sunny Lamb Traditional Apam Balik. Intrigued, I approached the van stall to explore this concept further. The menu offered a captivating array of apam balik varieties and these are vegan friendly. After considering my options, I chose the ori kelapa parut (original coconut) and jagung cheese/corn cheese. The other varieties were equally tempting, but I decided that three pieces of these Malaysian (EFFORTLESS MALAY DESSERTS) traditional pancakes would be enough to start with. Perhaps next time, I will try the other varieties.

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.

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.

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!

Reviving Minds: Yoga’s Impact on Mental Health

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
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.

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).

Loneliness Amongst Older Indians 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
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.

Penang Food Adventures: Mainland Discoveries

Hey, remember how I showed you around Penang's sightseeing spots (PENANG WONDERS)? Well, now it's time to dive into Penang's food scene! Forget fancy restaurants, we're talking about the real deal - street food galore! There's so much to choose from, you won't believe your taste buds. Penang is like heaven for foodies. So, stick with me, and let's go on a culinary adventure (PERAK EATS) - Penang's mainland food spots awaits (KUANTAN FOOD DISCOVERY).

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.

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).

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.