Tips to Boost Your Mental Health: Nature Therapy

Mental health has been a topic of growing awareness, with countless methods explored for improving well-being. From mindfulness techniques to creative practices like mandalas (MENTAL HEALTH & MANDALA BENEFITS), the list is ever-expanding. But have you noticed the rising trend of nature as a powerful mental health booster? It’s more than just a passing fad - nature has become a retreat for urban dwellers seeking solace from the relentless pace of city life.

Best Chicken Soup - Indian Style

What comes to mind when you think of Indian Chicken Soup? Surely, it’s the magical role of spices that add much-loved enhancement, wouldn’t you agree (SIMPLE AND HEARTY LAMB SOUP)? Making soups can be simplified, but if you enjoy grinding and pounding spices, I salute you. 

For the rest of us, like Ms. Nava, no worries! We have the convenience of spice powders, readily available from various brands at shops or grocers. Trust me, these powdered spices are no less flavorful - I’ve been using them for years and love trying different brands.

Easy Veggie Fried Rice: Malaysian Style

No, not your ordinary fried rice. It is the easy and ultimate Malaysian Fried Rice. Why not ordinary? Because potatoes are one of the ingredients, which I believe is not a usual for fried rice? Correct me if I am wrong?

Why Malaysian Fried Rice, must be your next question? Because dried chilli paste, which is a popular ingredient for our Malaysian especially sambal dishes, is the other ingredient. Considering also, how much Malaysians love spiciness in food (QUICK TOM YUM FRIED RICE).  Let alone, we Malaysians love our rice. Anytime meal of the day.  Pretty much it sums up, why this Malaysian Ms, Nava, made a Malaysian version fried rice.

Easy Gardening: Seed Sowing for Beginners

(Updated Version)

Now that we’ve covered the basics of gardening - understanding climate, choosing the right equipment, and identifying soil types - it’s time to dive into seed sowing. But where do we begin? Where do we get the seeds? Good questions (THE BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO GROWING HERBS). 

 

Getting the Seeds

Start with affordable store-bought seeds, or better yet, save seeds from your favorite vegetables while cooking. For instance, seeds from chilies, gourds and cucumbers, can be easily collected. Some leafy vegetable roots can also be replanted, though results may vary - I haven’t had success with this method, but it might work for you (EASY TIPS FOR GROWING SPRING ONIONS). 

Creamy Buttery Mashed Potatoes - Italian Recipe

Nothing beats the luscious, super smooth texture of mashed potatoes - especially when you’re generous with milk and butter. This is an Italian-style recipe. Surprised? I picked up the technique during my time in Italy, tasting and coaxing hints from restaurant owners who were reluctant to share their secrets but offered enough clues to get me started (THINGS TO DO IN LAKE COMO, LUGANO & MILAN).

Mental Health Tips & Benefits - Mandala

Mental health and well-being have become essential topics in the 21st century. Before you dive into deep thoughts about mental health (SIMPLE MENTAL HEALTH TIPS) and risk overcomplicating things, let me assure you that mental health and well-being can also be approached gently. It’s true that the percentage of people struggling with mental health issues has risen significantly over the years.

Ginger Rice Recipe: Rice Cooker Style

If not the whole world, countless voices have already extolled the benefits of ginger. So, I’m not here to be another parrot. What makes my ginger rice special? It’s made with freshly harvested ginger from Nava’s Zen - specifically, the prized Bentong Ginger variety (WHAT TO DO IN BENTONG). By the way, anyone can grow ginger. There’s no rigid rulebook for it. The same goes for making ginger rice. But a gentle reminder - too much ginger can increase body heat, so moderation is key to reaping its benefits.