Foot Creams Review: Dry Skin & Cracked Heels

How are your feet doing? Mine have already become rough, tough, and full of character, with lines and wrinkles forming a natural pattern. Honestly, I don't mind the wrinkling - people rarely notice my feet. Well, maybe they do when I’m conducting yoga sessions, but even then, I embrace the lines and wrinkles. What I do struggle with, though, is the rough, dry skin. At times, I can feel the skin flaking under my fingers. Being an urban gardener and taking care of household chores that involve frequent contact with water makes this almost inevitable.

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.

Semperit Cookies Recipe: Biskut Dahlia

Whether baked as long stripes or shaped like Dahlia flowers, these are yellow golden custard cookies that melt in the mouth. Some call them Kuih Semperit or Kuih Dahlia. They are Malay heritage traditional cookies (PINEAPPLE TARTS). 

The crumbly texture comes from corn flour and custard flour. Visually appealing and a delight to eat. Still popular for Hari Raya festive seasons, along with other Malay cookies.

 

The difference in making these custard cookies lies in the mould. Use either the stringent like metal long mould or a flower-shaped cookie cutter. Otherwise, the ingredients are the same (BUTTER COOKIES).

Singapore Laksa

Coconut milk, homemade spice paste, fish stock, and fish pieces, all lifted by the aroma of Vietnamese coriander (daun kesum). This is the vibrant, absolutely delicious laksa.

Is there much difference between Malaysian Laksa and Singapore Laksa? Not really. Some ingredients are the same, while others vary slightly. This laksa is also a blend of Asam Laksa and Curry Laksa.

 

The recipe is simple, with no lengthy ingredients list. It’s all about convenient home cooking. Unlike hawker stalls, food courts, or restaurants, it can be easily replicated at home -affordable, straightforward, and fuss-free (PRAWN MEE).

Cempedak Goreng Recipe

Crunchy outer batter coating, and soft, yellow-orange cempedak fruit inside. For Malaysians, or even those in Indonesia, Thailand, and Singapore, cempedak needs no introduction. But for the rest of the world? Cempedak is a tropical fruit, similar to jackfruit, and can be eaten fresh. It’s especially delicious when fried as a snack or sweet dessert (KUIH KASWI RECIPE). 

Cleaning cempedak can be messy due to its sticky sap, like jackfruit. Sometimes it’s easiest to buy from fruit traders who have already prepared the fruit.

Wardah UV Shield Essential Gel Sunscreen

How many of you actively defend your skin against the sun? It's crucial to acknowledge that indoor lighting, as well as the light from laptops and smartphones, emits rays that can harm your skin. Today, I want to focus specifically on facial skin.

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.

Nyonya Lam Mee

Thick, gooey gravy made from egg, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and prawn gravy clings to yellow noodles, seafood and Chinese broccoli (kailan), served with sambal belacan (spicy shrimp paste dip). This is what makes Nyonya Lam Mee a beloved Malaysian Nyonya-style noodle dish and a traditional homemade noodle recipe.

Bursting with flavor, this noodle dish instantly awakens your taste buds. While it may sound like a complicated recipe, it’s actually simple: the prawn stock (PRAWN FRIED MEE) and the rest are common Chinese ingredients.

Climate Change and Mental Health: A Call to Action

Author

Ms. Krishnan N, a Zen entrepreneur in her 60s, founded Nava's Zen at the age of 58. With 22 years of experience 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 vast expertise enriches her current work, where she blends wellness practices with personal development. She is also the urban gardener of Nava's Zen, passionately incorporating sustainable living principles into her holistic lifestyle and business approach.

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.

Indian Masala Chicken Curry

Not your usual Indian chicken curry, this is Masala Chicken Curry. It uses a homemade masala paste and a mix of spices for a thick, tasty curry with tender chicken. Potatoes are included in the curry for extra substance.

Spices are the backbone of Indian cooking, and in this curry, they bring depth, aroma, and authentic flavor. The recipe starts with making the masala paste. For natural thickness and creaminess, cashew nuts are added. The rest uses common kitchen staples and a straightforward cooking method (CHICKEN RENDANG).

Vegetarian Curry Mee Recipe

Whether it’s called curry mee or curry laksa, this Malaysian favourite is a comforting bowl of noodles drenched in thick, coconut milk–based curry. The name depends on where you are, in Penang and northern Malaysia, it’s curry mee, while in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, and the south, it’s known as curry laksa. Either way, both names refer to the same delicious dish (SIAMESE LAKSA LEMAK).

Curry mee ranges from pork broth to seafood or chicken-based versions, each with its own choice of toppings. For a vegetarian version (VEGETARIAN NASI LEMAK), the broth or stock is key. It lifts the flavours and prevents the curry from tasting flat. You can keep it simple with common kitchen staples and store-bought ingredients, or make your own curry paste by blending fresh ingredients.

Butter Cookies Recipe: Eggless

Crumbly, buttery, and with a gentle milky flavor, these cookies carry the irresistible aroma of vanilla. An eggless version, and vegetarian cookies too. Unlike other types of butter cookies, these vanilla butter cookies stand out for their pale milky hue and incredibly soft texture (CHOCOLATE COOKIES EGGLESS). 

One bite, and they melt effortlessly in the mouth.

 

This is also an easy butter cookies recipe. What’s the secret to their crumbly, crunchy yet soft bite? Corn flour. The dough will be sticky, which is why it needs to be set in the fridge. The result? Absolutely one of the best homemade cookies (PEANUT COOKIES).

Turkey Travel

In Turkey, the roads seem to stretch endlessly from one end of the country to the other. The days can fly by, especially with sightseeing. The list of places to visit in Turkey can easily spill over. In fact, 10 days and 8 nights can pass in what feels like just a few hours (TURKEY ATTRACTIONS). 

From historical sites and temples to nature, hills, and mountains, even simple pleasures like seeing rows of orange and olive trees along the roads are fulfilling. The long rides between cities may not always showcase Turkey’s top attractions, but there is always something to catch the eye out of the window. Comfort breaks in quiet rural areas for sitting back and having a drink, as the silence away from the bustling top attractions.

Chocolate Cookies Recipe: Eggless

Eggless chocolate cookies - the mild bitterness of cocoa powder, when paired with sugar and butter, creates a crumbly delight that melts on the tastebuds. But wait, add a touch of spiciness from cayenne pepper, and the flavor takes on another dimension (CHOCOLATE COFFEE CAKE EGGLESS). 

Cayenne pepper is the classic choice, but you can also use chili flakes or any other type of chili powder. Once all the ingredients are combined, the dough will be sticky. That’s why it needs to rest in the fridge first. After chilling, pinch the dough into small balls and flatten with a fork.

Vegetarian Nasi Lemak

Nasi Lemak is a beloved Malaysian dish enjoyed any time of the day, from breakfast to late-night supper. It’s a favorite among rice lovers and food enthusiasts alike. While nasi lemak is also part of Singaporean cuisine, and can be found in Brunei, certain parts of Indonesia, and Southern Thailand, nothing quite compares to the original Malaysian version. Nasi lemak is one of Malaysia’s most iconic dishes and has put Malaysian food on the global map.

What is Nasi Lemak?

Nasi lemak means coconut milk rice. Whether it’s the traditional non-vegetarian version, vegan, or plant-based nasi lemak, the main recipe for the coconut milk rice stays the same.

Kuih Kaswi Recipe

Chewy and scented with palm sugar (Gula Melaka) and fragrant pandan (screwpine) leaves, this is Kuih Kaswi, also known as Kuih Kasui. Like other popular Malay kuih-muih, it’s a steamed Malaysian delicacy and a traditional dessert (WAJIK/GLUTINOUS RICE CAKES). 

 

The Gula Melaka version, sometimes called Gula Merah, is essentially a palm sugar–flavored steamed dessert. It is infused with the fragrance of pandan leaves, which is what sets Malay kuih-muih apart from those made with vanilla essence (MALAYSIAN BANANA PANCAKE). 

Suicide in Young Indian Women in Selangor: Yoga 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 article explores the intricate relationship between cultural expectations, mental health, and wellness practices among young Indian women in Selangor. It examines how societal pressures and a lack of mental health awareness contribute to emotional distress and coping strategies, particularly in the context of yoga therapy. Despite the growing prevalence of mental health issues and rising suicide rates, yoga remains undervalued within the community, often overshadowed by more competitive pursuits. 

This study highlights the potential of yoga therapy to foster resilience and emotional well-being, advocating for its integration into daily life as a preventive measure against mental health crises. By promoting open discussions around mental health and encouraging holistic practices, families can create supportive environments that nurture the mental wellness of young Indian women, ultimately leading to healthier, more balanced lives.

Banana Pancake Recipe

The irresistible banana pancake is loved worldwide. Whether for breakfast, as an after-meal dessert, or as part of a high-tea treat. Making banana pancakes is simple. You can make them vegetarian or vegan, use baking powder or self-raising flour for convenience, or even go 100% with just ripe bananas (BANANA CHOCOLATE CAKE). 

It’s also a great way to use bananas that are near expiry and already soft and mushy, waste not, want not. First, make the pancakes, and then comes the fun part, toppings. From maple syrup to ice cream, salted caramel, cream, or fresh fruits. The options are endless.

Bitter Gourd with Eggs Recipe: Chinese Style

The slight bitterness from bitter gourd in Bitter Gourd with Eggs is what makes it delicious, plus it’s packed with nutrients. Bitter gourd and eggs, the two main ingredients, create a healthy recipe.

For a Chinese-style bitter gourd, it’s the light green bitter gourd. Not the darker, usually smaller variety, which is slightly milder in bitterness (CRISPY FRIED BITTER GOURD CHIPS). 

 

With a couple of common Chinese ingredients, you can whip up this bitter gourd stir-fry easily. Whether you prefer the eggs as one Bitter Gourd Omelette or in smaller pieces is a matter of preference.

Tasty Thai, Bukit Rimau: A Food Critic's Thai Bite

Arriving at Tasty Thai in Bukit Rimau around 11:50 AM with two lunch companions, we found ourselves among just three or four other early diners. Despite the quiet start, the staff were fully prepared to serve us. The moment I stepped inside, it felt like walking into a space that blended the warmth of a traditional Thai family home with the refined atmosphere of a high-end Thai food stall. The ambiance was serene and calming, instantly putting me at ease.

Kerabu Taugeh: Bean Sprout Salad

No-cook salads on the whole are about crispness, freshness, and the ease of a simple recipe. Between the various types of salads, there is the kerabu.  The Malaysian salad, specifically a Malay raw salad that is about preparing and tossing the ingredients together (URAP KANGKUNG/WATER SPINACH SALAD). 

Most of the time, apart from the star ingredient, the rest are everyday Malaysian staples that are easily available.

 

Take this Kerabu Taugeh (Bean Sprout Salad) as the example. This Kerabu Taugeh recipe calls for crunchy bean sprouts, chilies, shallots, lime juice, and kerisik (pan-roasted and pounded grated coconut), along with the fresh fragrance of spring onions and coriander leaves (KERABU BENDI/OKRA SALAD).

Peanut Cookies Recipe

No matter the festival, peanut cookies are a beloved treat that everyone looks forward to (SUJI COOKIES). The two star ingredients for these crumbly, buttery, and nutty cookies are nothing more than peanuts and butter.

These are Chinese-style cookies, shaped into small mounds, topped with peanuts, and brushed with egg yolk for a golden finish. For a vegetarian or egg-free version, use milk or cream instead of egg yolk.

 

For the peanuts, you can choose fried or roasted peanuts, then grind them in a food processor or mortar to make a coarse or fine powder. There’s also a version using store-bought peanut butter, which already includes butter and sometimes sugar.

Turkey Attractions

The journey starts in Istanbul and loops through some of Turkey’s top cities. In each city, it’s best to focus on the main attractions, as time is limited and budgets need to be considered. Traveling between cities is mostly by road and can take significant time (ISTANBUL TURKEY). 

One of the easiest ways to see Turkey is by joining a tour. Most tours include arrangements for accommodation, meals, and transportation. A local guide adds value by explaining the history and highlights of each city and attraction, making the experience smoother and more informative.

Crispy Fried Bitter Gourd Chips Recipe

As bitter as they are, bitter gourd is packed with healthy nutrients. Its natural bitterness acts as a remedy for managing blood sugar levels and supporting digestive health. When sliced thinly and fried, the bitterness mellows, turning into crispy fried bitter gourd chips, a favorite snack or accompaniment for an Indian rice meals (CRISPY FRIED CAULIFLOWER). 

Found in Indian eateries, this dish is always popular. Some versions are fried with flour, but this recipe does not need it (MORINGA LEAVES STIR-FRIED). 

Suji Cookies Recipe

Crumbly, crunchy, and scented with ghee, these golden yellow Suji Cookies are a festive favorite. Also known as Sujee Cookies, semolina cookies, or spelled as Sugee Cookies, they are usually made for celebrations like Hari Raya, Deepavali, or Chinese New Year (SEMOLINA/SUGEE CAKE). 

This is a simple 4-ingredient recipe (excluding cherries), but the ingredients are flexible. For less sweet cookies, use less sugar. For richer, more indulgent cookies, add extra ghee.

Sambal Belacan

Fiery, salty, tangy, and packed with umami, this is the classic Malaysian spicy dip. Sambal belacan, also known as Chili Shrimp Paste Sauce, is a no-cook or raw dip made traditionally with a mortar and pestle, or more quickly with a food processor or blender (NASI KERABU/HERBS RICE). 

This world-famous condiment comes in various versions. Apart from the popular Malaysian sambal belacan, there is the Thai-style sambal belacan and the Indonesian sambal belacan, also called Sambal Terasi. Each has its own preferred ingredients and flavors.

Misdiagnosis of Depression in Menopause: Yoga for Relief

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 examines the misdiagnosis of depression during menopause and the potential benefits of yoga as a complementary treatment. It highlights the limitations of conventional approaches that often oversimplify menopausal symptoms by labeling them as depression. Through the author's personal experiences, it is demonstrated how yoga can offer significant relief and mental clarity beyond what is typically achieved with standard medical treatments. 

The discussion emphasizes the importance of integrating yoga into mental health care, not only as a supplementary remedy but as a vital tool for enhancing overall well-being. The findings suggest that a more nuanced understanding of menopause-related mental health issues and the inclusion of yoga in treatment plans can lead to improved outcomes and greater self-reliance.

Easy Mango Sticky Rice Recipe - Thai Style

Khao Niew Mamuang, or Thai mango sticky rice, is a dessert loved across the globe, and for good reason. This Thai classic brings together fragrant glutinous rice (KUIH BUAH MELAKA/ONDEH ONDEH RECIPE), rich coconut milk, and sweet, juicy mango for a refreshing tropical treat.

In Thai, “Khao Niew” means sticky or glutinous rice, and “Mamuang” means mango. You’ll often find this dessert sold at street stalls in Thailand, but trust me, not every version is worth raving about. I’ve tasted many, even right in Thailand (RED RUBIES IN COCONUT MILK), and some were just average. But when it’s good, it’s really good, sticky rice that’s soft but not mushy, coconut milk that’s sweet and salty, and mango that melts in your mouth (THINGS TO DO IN THAILAND).

PIneapple Tarts Recipe

Golden and mildly crispy pastry filled with spiced pineapple jam,   that’s the  captivating  pineapple tarts. This recipe features the open-face version, also known as Nyonya pineapple tarts, a favorite during festive seasons and special occasions. Making pineapple tarts may be a tedious job, but homemade tarts are always worth the effort (TEA GOJI BERRY JELLY). 

What makes these homemade pineapple tarts unique compared to other fruity tarts?

 

Butter

Creates an extra crumbly, melt-in-the-mouth texture (BUTTER CAKE RECIPE). 

 

Corn flour

Binds the dough, making it tender and crisp, while enhancing the filling and extending shelf life.

Istanbul, Turkey

Uniquely positioned at the junction of Europe and Asia, Turkey is a country that shares land borders with eight countries. It is also surrounded by the Aegean Sea to the west, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and the Black Sea to the north. With over 85 million people, the official language is Turkish, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas (COPENHAGEN DENMARK SITES). 

Most travelers enter Turkey through Istanbul Airport, though there are also airports in Ankara and Izmir. Mention Istanbul, and the words mentioned are stunning, historic, and aplenty things to do in Istanbul. Truly a must-visit city for Turkey travel. No surprise, countless attractions in Istanbul have stood the test of time, drawing travelers from throughout the world (VENICE ITALY THINGS TO DO). 

Easy Pork Belly with Salted Fish

Pork belly and salted fish. Imagine these two ingredients coming together in one Chinese dish. That’s Pork Belly (PORK CHOPS CHINESE STYLE) with Salted Fish, a popular and much-loved recipe. You’ll often find it at Chinese mix rice stalls, and in restaurants, it’s served bubbling hot in a claypot as Claypot Pork Belly with Salted Fish.

At home, though, it’s all about easy cooking. This steamed version is simple and even considered the healthier choice. Just prep the ingredients, place them on a steaming tray, and steam away.

Thai Red Prawn Curry

Bright red, rich, and filled with the aroma of Thai herbs. Exactly how a Thai Red Prawn Curry should be. Thai curries are usually made with one of the three main pastes: red, yellow, or green curry paste (THAI GREEN EGG CURRY). This recipe uses the Thai red curry paste, the key to bold and fragrant flavor.

There are different ways to prepare red curry paste, from simple homemade versions to more complex blends. A vegetarian red curry paste works as a good base and can be easily adapted into a non-vegetarian curry. Choice of Thai herbs and ingredients can also be adjusted to taste.