Thursday, August 15, 2024

Chinese Ginseng Chicken Soup Recipe

A small bowl of soup with ginseng herbs, kei chi, dried longan, garlic, ginger, chicken, and a garnish of spring onions.
(Updated Version)


Roots, barks, herbs, and chicken - these are the essential ingredients for Chinese Ginseng Chicken Soup. I particularly enjoy homemade, healthy, and nutritious Chinese soups. Making any soup, including Chinese Ginseng Chicken Soup, is straightforward. If anyone claims they can’t make this soup, I’d be surprised (SIMPLE AND HEARTY LAMB SOUP)! It's as simple as adding all the ingredients - roots, barks, and medicinal herbs from a Chinese medical hall or provision shop - into a slow cooker or simmering them 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: Glutinous Rice with Sweet Coconut

Steamed glutinous rice with palm sugar sweet coconut atop
(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).

Resepi Sambal Telur: Egg Sambal

4 boiled eggs in a spicy egg sambal

Always a classic and a favorite in my kitchen — Sambal Telur, or Egg Sambal. No matter how many times I make this easy Malaysian egg recipe, it never gets old. This version has a special twist: the addition of dried shrimps, which truly elevate the flavor. Have you tried a sambal telur with dried shrimps before? It adds depth and takes the traditional egg sambal to the next level.

 

Nothing beats fresh turmeric for that vibrant yellow hue, beautifully contrasting the rich red sambal. It also brings a lovely, fresh scent. You can use basil leaves or swap in any herbs you like.

Sunday, August 11, 2024

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.

Saturday, August 10, 2024

FIsh Ball Noodle Soup: Handcrafted Fish Balls & Homemade Broth

A bowl of homemade fish balls and noodles with a spicy dip
(Updated Version)

Forget store-bought fish balls! I ventured into making homemade Fish Ball Noodle Soup from scratch, and it was absolutely worth it. These hand-rolled fish balls, simmered in a rich broth made from fish bones and skin, were bouncy, soft, and completely odor-free.

Nescafe Chocolate Cake (Eggless): Simplicity Wins

Medium size baked eggless chocolate coffee cake. Baked a loaf and some sliced into squares and long pieces, dusted with icing sugar
(Updated Version)

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

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.

Wednesday, August 7, 2024

Penang Food Guide: Seberang Perai Malay Food

Malay kuih-muih on a white plate: glutinous rice palm sugar rolls, and individual banana leaf wrapped sticky dough with sweet filling and steamed mash bananas. .
When Penang food is mentioned, Chinese cuisine often comes to mind, both on the island and in Seberang Perai (Mainland). This strong association is due to the long-established Chinese communities, particularly in George Town. From bustling hawker stalls to traditional coffee shops, Chinese food in Penang reflects its cooking heritage and a street food culture that has earned global recognition.

Malay food, on the other hand, is deeply rooted in the traditions of local communities, especially in Balik Pulau and Seberang Perai. Influenced by kampung (village) cooking and flavours from nearby northern states like Kedah and Perlis, Penang’s Malay food stands out with its own distinct identity and taste.

Saturday, August 3, 2024

Malu Kirata: Sri Lankan Fish Coconut Milk Curry Redefined

A bowl of fish coconut milk curry, garnished with spring onions
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).

Friday, August 2, 2024

Kiri Hodi: Sri Lankan Coconut Milk Stew with Boiled Eggs

Coconut milk stew made with turmeric powder, boiled eggs, tomatoes, curry leaves green chillies,  fenugreek seeds and lime juice.
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

Indian flaked fish dish, cooked with turmeric and spices in a bowl
What exactly is meen/fish puttu? For those in the know, it’s a cherished South Indian dish made from shredded fish. Typically using shark, kingfish, or mackerel, the fish is cooked, flaked, and sautéed with fresh coconut, shallots, green or red chilies, ginger, garlic, curry leaves, turmeric, and spices. Fish puttu is usually enjoyed with rice or as part of a larger meal.

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

Best Things to Do in George Town Penang, Malaysia

Indian lady seated and pretending to eat using chopsticks for a big bowl of mock asam laksa, Penang Wonderful Food Museum.
Penang Island, often called the Pearl of the Orient, offers endless options for activities and attractions (THINGS TO DO IN PENANG). The must-see sights are located in George Town, the island’s capital founded in 1786 by Captain Francis Light of the British East India Company. Named after King George III, George Town became a vital trading post and cultural melting pot. In recognition of its unique heritage, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.

George Town’s well-preserved colonial buildings, Chinese shophouses, temples, mosques, and churches reflect its diverse history. Many attractions are located close to one another, making it easy to see and experience by walking.

Monday, July 29, 2024

Milo Cake With Milo Glaze (Eggless)

Baked milk cake with milo glaze, sliced into pieces and placed on paper cups, with the other half of the cake
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.

Friday, July 26, 2024

Chameleon Restaurant, Kota Kemuning: A Taste of the Hype

Whenever a new restaurant opens in Kota Kemuning, it generates significant excitement among local food enthusiasts. Chameleon Restaurant (No. 68, Jalan Angeerik Vanilla Z/31Z), lauded in reviews, piqued the curiosity of my dining companion and me, prompting us to visit. Upon entry, we were welcomed by soft background music and a subtly dimmed ambiance, creating an inviting and comfortable setting.

Easy Chicken Curry Recipe: Indian Style

Tired of chicken curry recipes with long ingredient lists and complicated steps? If you’re short on time, this quick and easy Indian-style c...