Yoga’s Role in Adolescent Mental Health: A Call to Action

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 potential of yoga as a proactive intervention for addressing mental health challenges among adolescents. Drawing on existing research and qualitative insights, it examines the pressures faced by adolescents today, including academic stress, peer influences, and the impact of social media. Additionally, the pressure to excel and succeed imposed by parents (The Role of Yoga in Adolescent Mental Health), highlighting the multifaceted challenges adolescents navigate in contemporary society.

Yoga, rooted in ancient practices of physical postures, breath control, and meditation, offers a holistic approach to enhancing mental well-being. Evidence suggests that yoga can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while promoting emotional regulation and overall health.

 

Despite its proven benefits, there remains a lack of awareness and integration of yoga in adolescent health initiatives. This article advocates for increased awareness among parents, educators, and policymakers, emphasizing the role of yoga in supporting adolescent mental health. By fostering a culture of yoga in educational and community settings, we can empower adolescents to navigate life's challenges with resilience and well-being.

Fried Fish with Soy Sauce

Home-cooked food holds a special place, especially considering the time taken by our careers and the hours spent driving in city traffic. Whether it's men or women doing the cooking, eating out or ordering takeout has become common due to hectic careers that leave little time for cooking. Despite these challenges, many still cherish the simplicity and satisfaction of a homemade meal - even a single dish with rice and a side of salad or sliced cucumber can provide a sense of comfort and fulfilment.

Given the value placed on homemade meals, let me share a recipe that embodies this simplicity and flavor: fish (SOUTH INDIAN FISH CURRY) with soy sauce. As the fish fries, the preparation of the remaining ingredients is straightforward. Only ginger requires slicing; the rest are added to enhance the dish's taste and aroma.

Penang Thaipusam: A Journey of Faith and Discovery

Truth be told, the foundation of Hinduism, I’m not your typical holy Hindu or devotee (MASI MAGAM PANGKOR). Performing poojas or hosting prayers at home by inviting a priest is not part of my routine. Fasting and following a vegetarian diet, even on Hindu festivals, are practices of the devout Hindus I know. These individuals have taught many lessons about faith and spirituality despite their contradictions in attitude, character, and behaviors (VARANASI NIGHT PRAYERS & CHANDIGARH MARVELS). 

Still, I had a reason for making a vow, not for myself, but for something else which I prefer not to share. To fulfill this vow by carrying the Paal Kudam (Milk Pot) during Thaipusam, I went to Penang. This was my third time attending the festival, though previously I had only observed the celebrations. This time, it was for the Paal Kudam vow.

Bergen Sightseeing & Denmark-Norway Reflections

As we neared the end of our Denmark (COPENHAGEN) and Norway (BERGEN CHRONICLES & OSLO) journey, our second-to-last day kicked off at Bergen's lively waterfront. Surrounded by boats of all shapes and sizes, I couldn't resist the pull of the sea. Whether it's the ocean's vastness, a winding river, or a tranquil pond, water always captivates me. The blend of nature and history in Bergen stirred a mix of wonder and anticipation. At the port, I snapped photos eagerly, trying to freeze every moment in time. But as I looked out over the sea, my mind wandered beyond the horizon (NEW DELHI REVELATIONS & SRI LANKA DISCOVERIES).

Mee Siam Kuah/Gravy (Vegetarian)

Shall we cook mee siam? Why not! I have two delightful Mee Siam recipes for you: one with a rich gravy, known as "kuah," and the other in a dry style. These dishes are part of Peranakan cuisine, which beautifully blends Chinese and Malay influences. In the Peranakan community, women are called Nyonya and men are called Baba. This is why recipes are often labeled as Nyonya cuisine rather than Baba cuisine.

Now, let’s dive into these recipes. I’d love to hear your feedback, so please let me know if you try them. You can reach out to me on our social media platforms. Thank you in advance

The Role of Yoga in Adolescent 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.

In my informal conversations with parents of adolescents, a recurring theme emerges: the impressive achievements and activities their children are involved in - from academic successes to a plethora of extracurricular engagements. Whether it's excelling in exams, mastering musical instruments, Indian classical dancing or traditional forms like ballet and participating in sports like karate and swimming, these achievements are often proudly showcased as markers of parental success in nurturing well-rounded children.

However, when the topic of yoga is introduced (Fear No Yoga) into these discussions, I notice a distinct shift in reactions. It's as if I've mentioned something inconsequential or lacking in prestige. This reaction begs several questions: Could this be due to a lack of awareness about yoga's benefits? Is it because yoga lacks the competitive edge of other activities? Or perhaps, participating in yoga doesn't offer the same opportunities for parental bragging rights as winning a sports competition or a music recital?

Sardine Varuval (Dry Style)

Canned sardines - you either love 'em or hate 'em. Some folks hear "canned sardines" and start ranting about how unhealthy canned food is, throwing in wild tales about worms. Ironically, the loudest complainers often have their own health issues. Should we really listen to them? I say, ignore the naysayers! If you’re a true sardine fan like me, this sardine varuval recipe is for you. And while we're at it, here are a few more quick and easy sardine recipes for when you're pressed for time.

Chili Sardine
Pat dry canned sardines and fry them.
Remove from heat, then add chopped chilies (red, green, or bird’s eye), shallots, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of lime juice.
Lightly toss everything together for a spicy, tangy treat with a crispy outer layer and a burst of heat from the chilies, balanced by the zesty lime.

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).

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? 

Simple and Hearty Lamb Soup: A Comforting Classic

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 Chronicles: From Marine Marvels to Historical Treasures

Bergen, (OSLO & NORWAY)renowned for its frequent rainfall, greeted us with showers upon our arrival and persisted throughout our evening activities, including dinner at a high-end restaurant. The rain continued to accompany us even upon reaching our hotel. Dinner that evening held particular significance, providing much-needed nourishment after a day filled with strenuous activities. Fatigue had set in, prompting a longing for the comfort of our accommodations and the warmth of a soothing shower.

The following morning, we ventured to Bergen Aquarium, braving the inclement weather under provided umbrellas. As we explored the facility, the presence of penguins brought a sense of delight and wonder. Their carefree demeanor and striking appearance captivated my attention, offering a moment of respite amidst the gloomy weather. Observing these charming creatures evoked a sense of admiration and appreciation, reminding me of the beauty that can be found even in the midst of adversity.

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).

Chloe Palak (Spinach & Chickpea Curry)

Chole Palak, or Chana Palak, is a popular dish from northern India, typically enjoyed with roti or naan. Interestingly, even though you can find it in Northern Indian restaurants in Malaysia, it’s not commonly cooked by Malaysian Indians (CHANDIGARH INDIA URBAN MARVELS). I’ve never seen it at potlucks, gatherings, weddings, or other events. Do you know why? I’m curious! If you have any idea, please drop a comment (CHENNAI DISCOVERY & NEW DELHI REVELATION).

 

At first, I didn’t cook Chole Palak either, but after trying it once, it became a regular dish in our home, especially loved by my husband. If you haven't made chickpea and spinach curry yet, now's a great time to start. I always use canned chickpeas - they save a lot of cooking time and are very convenient. It’s funny how some people, those who believe they are health gurus, avoid canned foods, believing they’re unhealthy. They insist on simmering or pressure cooking raw chickpeas.

Easy South Indian Fish Curries: Coconut & Veggie Options

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.

Norway's Natural Wonders

The next morning (OSLO), we set off for Vossestrand. The journey was long but filled with stops to immerse in the breathtaking scenery, stretch our legs, and enjoy lunch. Untouched nature lined both sides of the road, making the drive feel like a moving postcard (FREMANTLE EXPLORATION,  OSAKA SUNSETS & CHANDIGARH URBAN MARVELS).

Vegetarian Nyonya Recipes: Contrasting Flavors

Once upon a time, cooking Nyonya Cuisine (NYONYA CUISINE: REDISCOVERING HERITAGE) meant pounding ingredients in a mortar. Today, it's all about convenience with food processors and blenders. But there's still one old-timer, Ms. Nava, pounding away now and then. While some women prefer showroom kitchens, she cooks in shorts, bringing Nyonya vegetarian recipes to life with flair! Unlike those reliant on helpers or fancy kitchen setups or cook for seeking validation and praising from others for occasions, Ms. Nava stays true to tradition, cooking for her family. She after using her Nyonya cooking knowledge, blends the old with the new, converting classic Nyonya dishes into delightful vegetarian versions, proving that culinary excellence knows no bounds.