Wednesday, October 9, 2024
Breathwork and Mindfulness: Benefits of Yoga Practice
Tuesday, October 8, 2024
Ben & Jerry’s Chocolatey Love A-Fair: A Sweet Treat
Am I an avid fan of cocoa-based treats? Generally, I prefer dark chocolate, enjoying it in moderation when my need for a sweet indulgence or a guilty pleasure strikes. My previous encounter with Ben & Jerry’s ice cream was years ago at their now-closed Sunway Pyramid outlet, so this felt like a nostalgic choice.
Religionism & Mental Health in Selangor Hindus: Yoga Healing
Abstract
This
article explores the intricate interplay between religion, mental health, and
the practice of yoga among Hindus in Selangor, Malaysia. While yoga is deeply
rooted in Hindu tradition, serving as a pathway to self-awareness and spiritual
growth, modern interpretations often distort its essence. The article examines
how contemporary societal pressures, social media, and the emergence of
self-proclaimed "yoga masters" contribute to a disconnection from the
authentic teachings of yoga.
It highlights the importance of grounding practices in spirituality and the need for individuals to navigate their faith with humility and authenticity. By emphasizing yoga's role as a healing practice, the article advocates for a mindful approach to spirituality that fosters mental well-being and a deeper connection to one's cultural heritage.
Monday, October 7, 2024
Hyderabadi Vegetable Biryani: Spice-Infused Rice Classic
Let’s dive into the world of Hyderabadi Biryani.
Known for its unique dum cooking method, this dish combines marinated meat and
rice, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. You have two varieties: kacchi
(raw meat cooked with rice) and pakki (pre-cooked meat and rice layered
together). It’s a fusion of Mughlai and local Andhra cuisines, often served
with mirchi ka salan and raita for a truly delightful experience.
Now, here’s the truth - I’m not even sure if I’ve ever tasted authentic Hyderabadi Biryani. Plans to visit Hyderabad fell through, but I have enjoyed sensational biryanis in Kochi (KERALA: THE KALEISCOPE 0F EXPERIENCES) and New Delhi (NORTH INDIA: A SOULFUL REVELATION), each region offering its unique twist. At home, we lean towards vegetarian biryanis, paired with mutton curry and raita. My version, Ms. Nava’s Vegetable Hyderabadi Biryani, is cooked in a rice cooker and just as mouthwatering as any traditional biryani.
Sunday, October 6, 2024
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 love to
boast, claiming that making laksa is a complex task, but in reality, it’s not.
Here’s a guide to help you out
Varieties of Laksa
As far as Ms. Nava knows, there are two main types:
asam laksa (ASAM LAKSA VARIETIES) and curry laksa (SINGAPORE LAKSA: MS. NAVA'S VERSION). Let’s not delve into the versions that have been
altered beyond recognition - let’s stick to the basics.
Saturday, October 5, 2024
One-Day Dubai Adventure: Must-See Attractions & Desert Safari
Here’s where the plot thickens! The airline sorted out a one-day stay at the Copthorne Hotel Dubai, complete with three meals to keep us fueled. While waiting for the room allocation, I made friends with the rest of the passengers, and with a tour agent in sight, we inquired about tours and agreed on a half-day Dubai city tour. We also booked the famed Sunset Desert Safari for later. Sometimes, a travel hiccup can turn into a thrilling adventure - let the journey continue.
Friday, October 4, 2024
Vegetarian Noodle Soup: Chinese Choices and Variations
Did you know that soup can nourish not just the body, but also the breath, mind, and soul? This is the essence of Zen cuisine - a mindful way of eating where simplicity and harmony are at the heart of every meal (5 EASY VEGETARIAN RECIPES).
There’s something almost magical about a Chinese soup infused with herbs, veggies, and ladled over tender noodles. The flavors blend together in a sensational way. While I’m not strictly vegetarian, I enjoy both meat (like my Chinese Herbal Pork Soup) and meatless meals. Nothing beats the depth of flavor from a homemade vegetable stock, which is key to a truly nourishing bowl.
Foot Creams: Honest Reviews for Dry Skin & Cracked Heels
The real concern for me is if the dry, flaky skin will start peeling and expose raw skin underneath - thankfully, that hasn’t happened yet. For some, dry feet can lead to cracked heels, which can be quite painful. Once the cracks deepen, they can bleed, making every step excruciating. Luckily, this hasn’t been my issue, but I’m always mindful of it.
Wednesday, October 2, 2024
Yoga and Mindfulness for Mental Health: A Healing Journey
In the 21st century, it’s alarming to see rising mental health issues affecting individuals from as young as five to those over seventy. Many of these challenges stem from a relentless pursuit of wealth, fame, and societal validation, heavily influenced by the curated perfection of social media. This trend shows no signs of slowing down.
Biskut Semperit (Kuih Dahlia) - Malaysian Custard Cookies
(Updated Version)
Have you ever tasted the delightful crunch of a Semperit cookie? Whether you call them custard cookies, Biskut Semperit, or Kuih Semperit - also known as Biskut Dahlia or Kuih Dahlia when shaped into a dahlia flower - these cookies evoke nostalgia and celebrate a cherished heritage (EASY EGGLESS VANILLA BUTTER COOKIES). These Malay heritage cookies are beloved for their crumbly texture and attractive appearance.
They hold a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate them and will never go out of style during festivals, especially during Hari Raya, where they are often served as a treat for guests and enjoyed with family (CHILI CHOCOLATE COOKIES).
Tuesday, October 1, 2024
Singapore Laksa: Ms. Nava's Version
Confession time: This Singapore Laksa might not be
the traditional, authentic version. While I’ve tasted what’s labeled as
"Singapore Laksa" here and there, I must confess - I’ve never actually
been to Singapore. Strange, right? Despite a few plans, none ever materialized,
so I’ve yet to taste the famed Singapore Laksa in Singapore.
But here's the
thing - I’m a big fan of laksa, whether it’s the curry or asam version. Over the
years, I’ve enjoyed them many times and even made several variations of curry
laksa myself (HOMEMADE VEGETARIAN CURRY LAKSA, SARAWAK LAKSA & ASAM LAKSA VARIATIONS). After some reading, I realized there’s not much difference
between Singapore Laksa and Malaysian Laksa, except that Singapore's version is
said to be more lemak (rich and creamy), thanks to the extra coconut milk.
Cempedak Goreng Rangup: Crispy Delight with Black Sesame
My Experience with Wardah UV Shield Essential Gel Sunscreen
Neglecting to shield your skin from sun exposure
and indoor light sources can lead to several adverse consequences:
Accelerated Skin Aging
Prolonged exposure to UV
rays can result in fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
Increased Risk of Skin Cancers
UV radiation can
damage the DNA in skin cells, raising the risk of skin cancers, including
melanoma.
Skin Inflammation
The blue light emitted from
electronic devices is linked to various skin issues, potentially causing
inflammation and contributing to conditions like acne and pigmentation
disorders.
Monday, September 30, 2024
Nyonya Lam Mee: Hearty and Nourishing Choice
Noodles (MALACCA'S NYONYA FOOD FIESTA) are a delightful culinary experience, offering a welcome break from the routine of rice-based meals. Particularly enjoyable during wet and chilly weather, noodles provide warmth and satisfaction to the palate. Among the various noodle dishes I've explored, my preference often leans toward the soupy varieties. Soups, after all, are not only nourishing but also filling, making them an excellent choice for those mindful of their weight. The key is to opt for soups rich in proteins and loaded with vegetables, steering clear of heavy, calorie-laden options.
When you desire more substance in your meal, incorporating noodles into your soup is a fantastic option. Today, the market offers a wide range of healthier noodle choices, making it easier to align your meals with your wellness goals.
Climate Change and Mental Health: A Call to Action
Author
Abstract
This
article explores the multifaceted impacts of climate change, emphasizing the
interconnectedness of individual actions, leadership accountability, and mental
health repercussions. It highlights the significant role of food choices in
exacerbating climate issues, particularly the wastefulness associated with
leftover consumption and the environmental toll of processed foods and
single-use plastics. Additionally, the article scrutinizes the effectiveness of
leaders and politicians in promoting sustainable practices, questioning their
commitment amidst lavish lifestyles that contradict their public advocacy.
Saturday, September 28, 2024
Authentic Indian Masala Chicken Curries & Dry Recipes
Making masala chicken curry is absolutely doable!
Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise. Even if your first attempt isn’t
perfect, remember that cooking is about learning from mistakes. Here’s a dose
of encouragement: You’ve got this!.
Here’s What to Keep in Mind
Masala Basics
Masala means curry paste or spice mix. It
sounds fancy, but it’s quite simple.
Types of
Masalas
Different masalas create unique flavors. Experiment with them to find your favorites.
Quick and Fast Pizza: Bread Pizza
((Updated Version) Honestly, I’ve never made pizza dough in my entire life. I personally feel it’s not worth the time, but when I hav...
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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 ...