Michaele Weissman's 10 Ways to Judge a Cup of Coffee:
1. The Scent
Our sense of smell is much more sensitive than our sense of taste. Anyone who has been captivated by the smell of coffee won't be surprised to learn that coffee releases more aromatic compounds than any other food. These should be pleasing aromas, but bad coffee may include onion-y and vegetable-y elements in its scent.
2. The First Sip
Try tasting each new coffee black. Nothing is wrong with milk and sugar, but they alter the taste and texture of the coffee. So, when learning about coffee, it's a good idea to take a few pure sips. Also, let it cool slightly to make the range of flavors in the cup more accessible.
3. Sweetness and Saltiness
Look for an underlying natural sweetness. That taste comes from the ripeness of the coffee cherry. Professional tasters rank sweetness as the most important taste characteristic of high-grade coffee. Coffee should never taste salty. Saltiness is caused by processing defects.
4. Acidity
Taste for a bright, light acidity that is pleasing. This is not to be confused with the stomach-churning acidity that you get, say, from coffee that has been sitting on an office hotplate for four hours.
5. Texture
A nice texture for coffee has a little thickness. It's not thin and watery. The last taste you experience with good coffee should be smooth, and there should be a pleasing, sweet aftertaste.
6. Fruits and Vegetables
Finding words to describe the interplay of what our taste buds detect (sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and savory) isn't easy. Many of the world's most prized coffees, such as those from Yirgacheffe in Ethiopia, abound in flavors that are described as bright, lemony, orangey, berry-like, and floral. When the fruity flavors go bad, however, they can degenerate into vegetable tastes. Not so good. Who wants sautéed onions or steamed cauliflower in their coffee cup?
7. Spices
Exotic flavors that are spicy (think cinnamon and cloves), smoky, and woodsy can be desirable. Such tastes often appear in Indonesian coffees. In excess, they can be unpleasant.
8. Natural Sugar
Chocolaty, caramel-like, nutty, and toasty flavors come from the sugar browning that occurs during roasting. Latin American coffees at their best have lots of these yummy, warm, sweet notes. In lower quality coffees from Latin America (like some of the national brands you buy at the supermarket), this sugar browning can produce the sense of swallowing a mouthful of dry, bitter grain.
9. The Roast
Roasting can be light, medium, dark, or very dark. If you detect a burnt quality in a coffee, it may be a bad roast. In the U.S. there are regional differences in roasting. Companies from the Pacific Northwest tend toward darker roasts.
10. Espresso Notes
Espresso is made from a blend of coffees brewed under great pressure, using a large amount of coffee and a small amount of water. Espresso is dense and intense and can stand up to other flavorings. High quality espresso has just as complex a flavor range as brewed coffee. If you order an espresso in a café, the layer of reddish brown foam on the top, called the crema, should be thick and creamy, and you should be able to push it away from you with the back of a spoon. If you order a cappuccino, the milk foam should be thick, creamy, and sweet.
Tip: Knowing where your coffee comes from can help you pick one that will taste great to you. Latin American coffees tend to be chocolaty and mild. Coffees from east Africa tend to have a wake-up-your-mouth kind of perkiness that coffee pros call brightness. Coffees from Indonesia tend to be earthy, dark, and more intense.
Friday, 17 July 2009
Saturday, 30 May 2009
Wednesday, 15 April 2009
Would Our Magazines Do This?
I came across this article today and it got me thinking... would our local magazines dare to do this?
The French Elle made a daring move in their April issue by featuring eight female European celebrities including Monica Bellucci, Eva Herzigova and Sophie Marceau. Not only without makeup, but also without the magic of Photoshop and retouching.
It's amazing to see how these stars look in their natural state. Perhaps this is how they look like when they just woke up and practically bumming around the house watching TV and taking care of their kids. Maybe for the sake of them being in the magazine, they have to put extra lighting and play around with it to create a nice effect.
The French Elle made a daring move in their April issue by featuring eight female European celebrities including Monica Bellucci, Eva Herzigova and Sophie Marceau. Not only without makeup, but also without the magic of Photoshop and retouching.
It's amazing to see how these stars look in their natural state. Perhaps this is how they look like when they just woke up and practically bumming around the house watching TV and taking care of their kids. Maybe for the sake of them being in the magazine, they have to put extra lighting and play around with it to create a nice effect.
I think Monica Bellucci and Sophie Marceau look really good for their age, but Eva Herzigova just looks scary to me. But overall, a good effort from French Elle. I don't think we get to see any of these in American magazines and perhaps our own local ones.
But just for the hell of it, if we were to do something like French Elle, which local celebrities would you like to see without their makeup?
But just for the hell of it, if we were to do something like French Elle, which local celebrities would you like to see without their makeup?
Monica Bellucci, 44 years old.
Eva Herzigova, 36 years old.
Sophie Marceau, 42 years old.
Monday, 13 April 2009
The Day I Got Lasik-ed!
Today is truly a memorable day for me. After 19 years of wearing spectacles and 15 years of wearing contact lenses, finally I can say goodbye to them. My eyes went through "Bladeless Lasik" today at Prince Court Medical Centre, thanks to Prof Dr Muhaya Hj Mohamad, a renowned ophtamologist.
Alhamdulillah, the lasik surgery went smoothly and according to the Prof, it went on record time of 20 minutes. Just imagine, it only takes 20 minutes to correct your sight! What a technological marvel!
After the surgery, I had to stay back for 3 hours before being checked by the doctor and go home. The first hour of the wait was agonising for me as I felt that my eyes were burning and I was tearing non-stop. They assured me that it was normal and it differed between patients. After that all was well and good.
The best part of this experience, the whole prep and surgery was recorded by my camera crew so it be shown on RTM soon. So stay tuned for that! :)
With my mum (who was more nervous than I was!) and Prof Dr Muhaya after the surgery.
Alhamdulillah, the lasik surgery went smoothly and according to the Prof, it went on record time of 20 minutes. Just imagine, it only takes 20 minutes to correct your sight! What a technological marvel!
After the surgery, I had to stay back for 3 hours before being checked by the doctor and go home. The first hour of the wait was agonising for me as I felt that my eyes were burning and I was tearing non-stop. They assured me that it was normal and it differed between patients. After that all was well and good.
The best part of this experience, the whole prep and surgery was recorded by my camera crew so it be shown on RTM soon. So stay tuned for that! :)
With my mum (who was more nervous than I was!) and Prof Dr Muhaya after the surgery.
Sunday, 5 April 2009
Goodbye Perak, Hello Doli!
Today was the last day of shooting the Malaysian Weekend in Perak. I had a blast staying here for a week but I still miss home. I *heart* KL!
With Farizal & Angelene at the location, Kompleks Sejarah Matang, Kota Ngah Ibrahim, Matang.
With Aishah (wardrobe), Wadi (makeup), and Nora, Hasnia, Adalia & Lin (Weekend crew).
The crew with Kak Su & Kak Simah.
But before heading back, we stopped over at Taiping for some Doli Kuey Teow Goreng!
A photo of the original Doli Kuey Teow Goreng. A humble beginning that started as a stall.
We arrived at 11.45am and there were already a few tables taken.
It took a long time for the food to arrive. Apparently, the owner cooks them using the charcoal grill and not a gas cooker. A lot of people seemed to not mind the long wait. By the time the food arrived, the place was packed!
For RM8 per plate, it's quite worth it. Lots of prawns!
Doli Kuey Teow Goreng opens daily (except Fridays) between 12noon to 11pm.
Aside from the famous kuey teow, they also serve mee kari, kuey teow sup, sup ayam, mee rebus & nasi ayam.
Here's the address:
No 5, Regat Tupai,
34000 Taiping,
Perak Darul Ridzuan.
So long Taiping! See you again! :)
With Farizal & Angelene at the location, Kompleks Sejarah Matang, Kota Ngah Ibrahim, Matang.
With Aishah (wardrobe), Wadi (makeup), and Nora, Hasnia, Adalia & Lin (Weekend crew).
The crew with Kak Su & Kak Simah.But before heading back, we stopped over at Taiping for some Doli Kuey Teow Goreng!A photo of the original Doli Kuey Teow Goreng. A humble beginning that started as a stall.
We arrived at 11.45am and there were already a few tables taken.
It took a long time for the food to arrive. Apparently, the owner cooks them using the charcoal grill and not a gas cooker. A lot of people seemed to not mind the long wait. By the time the food arrived, the place was packed!
For RM8 per plate, it's quite worth it. Lots of prawns!Doli Kuey Teow Goreng opens daily (except Fridays) between 12noon to 11pm.
Aside from the famous kuey teow, they also serve mee kari, kuey teow sup, sup ayam, mee rebus & nasi ayam.
Here's the address:
No 5, Regat Tupai,
34000 Taiping,
Perak Darul Ridzuan.
So long Taiping! See you again! :)
Tuesday, 10 March 2009
5-Step Detox To Revitalise You
Why you need to spring clean your body
Your body is naturally equipped with a self-cleaning process. But too much sugar, caffeine, processed foods, stress, and too little exercise can slow the body's natural detox function to a slow pace. And then your body can't clean itself when it is put up against the increasing number of harmful and toxic substances in the environment. Toxins come in many forms: pesticides in produce, formaldehyde in carpets and cosmetics, PCBs from plastic containers, dioxins from bleached paper products, and more.
Your body will process and eliminate some of the hordes of chemicals that enter, but overflow gets stored in the liver, lungs, kidneys, fat cells, intestines, blood stream, and skin—which can result in chronic illnesses down the road. When you undergo a detox, you get these toxins out of your system.
How do you know if you need a detox?
You know you're suffering from toxic overload if you are experiencing fatigue, memory decline, difficulty focusing, allergies and infections, irritability, anxiety and depression, difficulty with weight gain and weight loss, muscle and joint pain or weakness, skin rashes and outbreaks, recurrent yeast and fungal infections, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal bloating, and indigestion.
Most people report vast improvement in their symptoms after a detox. At first, you may feel a little fuzzy because of the toxins being released. However, when you stick with it, you will begin to feel more alert, energized, and full of vitality.
At-Home Detox
Start small! Begin with a one-day program and gradually increase to one week or more. Here are 5 steps to a daily detox that will gently cleanse your body:
1. Start the Detox Day Right
• First thing in the morning, drink one lemon squeezed in 12 ounces of warm filtered water. Lemon activates your liver to release toxins and helps to cleanse and move the roughage that stays behind in your intestines.
These meals are designed to jump-start your body into becoming healthier.
• Breakfast: Eat oat bran cereal, brown rice, or any other whole grain cereal as long as it is unbleached and does not contain any added sugar or chemicals. Pair with unflavored soy milk.
• Lunch or Dinner: Eat any combination of beans, brown rice, oat bran, vegetables, and organic chicken, turkey, or soy-products. When you eat, notice how your food affects you. You should feel satisfied and energized. If you feel tired and sluggish, try eating smaller meals so that you don't overwhelm your digestion and interfere with the detoxification process.
3. Eat Green to Spring into Health
The green pigment in plants, chlorophyll, is structurally similar to the hemoglobin in the human body—the iron-containing element in blood. It increases red blood cell production and improves oxygenation, detoxification, and circulation. Be sure to eat several servings of fresh green vegetables every day during your detox. Try this super-cleansing broth and juice as a quick way to up your veggie intake.
Detox Broth: Add as many of these ingredients as you can into a large pot of filtered water: collards, Swiss chard, kale, mustard greens, cabbage, dandelion, Brussels sprouts, daikon radish, watercress, seaweed, shitake mushrooms, cilantro, garlic, leeks, fresh fennel, anise, fresh ginger, and turmeric. Boil until all ingredients are soft. You can make in a large batch and refrigerate for up to three days.
Detox Juice: Juice the following together: Aloe vera juice (which can be found in most health food stores), apples, asparagus, beets (including greens), cabbage, carrot and carrot greens, celery, cucumbers, and parsley. You can also purchase vegetable juice from the store, but be sure that it has no added salt or chemicals.
4. Supplement Your Detox
• Take a daily supplement of 1 tablespoon of flax seed oil, walnut oil, or deep-sea fish oil.
• Green Tea is a strong antioxidant, and a great beverage choice for your detox. Be sure to drink decaffeinated green tea.
• Dandelion and Milk Thistle both protect and restore the liver. According to Chinese medicine, the liver is most active in the detoxification process during spring.
• Ginger is a bowel and kidney cleanser. Make yourself tea from fresh ginger root during your detox.
A popular herbal formula among my patients is Internal Cleanse, a special combination of natural herbs to detoxify, calm nerves, clear the mind, promote emotional balance, and ease digestion.
5. Take an Invigorating Herbal Soak
Soak for 20 minutes in a revitalizing herbal bath. Help draw out toxins by infusing your bath water with eucalyptus, wintergreen, peppermint, fennel, cinnamon, and epsom salts.
Your body is naturally equipped with a self-cleaning process. But too much sugar, caffeine, processed foods, stress, and too little exercise can slow the body's natural detox function to a slow pace. And then your body can't clean itself when it is put up against the increasing number of harmful and toxic substances in the environment. Toxins come in many forms: pesticides in produce, formaldehyde in carpets and cosmetics, PCBs from plastic containers, dioxins from bleached paper products, and more.
Your body will process and eliminate some of the hordes of chemicals that enter, but overflow gets stored in the liver, lungs, kidneys, fat cells, intestines, blood stream, and skin—which can result in chronic illnesses down the road. When you undergo a detox, you get these toxins out of your system.
How do you know if you need a detox?
You know you're suffering from toxic overload if you are experiencing fatigue, memory decline, difficulty focusing, allergies and infections, irritability, anxiety and depression, difficulty with weight gain and weight loss, muscle and joint pain or weakness, skin rashes and outbreaks, recurrent yeast and fungal infections, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal bloating, and indigestion.
Most people report vast improvement in their symptoms after a detox. At first, you may feel a little fuzzy because of the toxins being released. However, when you stick with it, you will begin to feel more alert, energized, and full of vitality.
At-Home Detox
Start small! Begin with a one-day program and gradually increase to one week or more. Here are 5 steps to a daily detox that will gently cleanse your body:
1. Start the Detox Day Right
• First thing in the morning, drink one lemon squeezed in 12 ounces of warm filtered water. Lemon activates your liver to release toxins and helps to cleanse and move the roughage that stays behind in your intestines.
• Take acidophilus or a probiotic supplement. Acidophilus is one of the many "good" bacteria and yeasts known as the probiotics. Probiotics balance our intestinal functions, helping to break down food and control the "bad" bacteria that is also in your system—all of which optimizes the detoxification process. Always take probiotics on an empty stomach.
2. Your Detox MealsThese meals are designed to jump-start your body into becoming healthier.
• Breakfast: Eat oat bran cereal, brown rice, or any other whole grain cereal as long as it is unbleached and does not contain any added sugar or chemicals. Pair with unflavored soy milk.
• Lunch or Dinner: Eat any combination of beans, brown rice, oat bran, vegetables, and organic chicken, turkey, or soy-products. When you eat, notice how your food affects you. You should feel satisfied and energized. If you feel tired and sluggish, try eating smaller meals so that you don't overwhelm your digestion and interfere with the detoxification process.
3. Eat Green to Spring into Health
The green pigment in plants, chlorophyll, is structurally similar to the hemoglobin in the human body—the iron-containing element in blood. It increases red blood cell production and improves oxygenation, detoxification, and circulation. Be sure to eat several servings of fresh green vegetables every day during your detox. Try this super-cleansing broth and juice as a quick way to up your veggie intake.
Detox Broth: Add as many of these ingredients as you can into a large pot of filtered water: collards, Swiss chard, kale, mustard greens, cabbage, dandelion, Brussels sprouts, daikon radish, watercress, seaweed, shitake mushrooms, cilantro, garlic, leeks, fresh fennel, anise, fresh ginger, and turmeric. Boil until all ingredients are soft. You can make in a large batch and refrigerate for up to three days.
Detox Juice: Juice the following together: Aloe vera juice (which can be found in most health food stores), apples, asparagus, beets (including greens), cabbage, carrot and carrot greens, celery, cucumbers, and parsley. You can also purchase vegetable juice from the store, but be sure that it has no added salt or chemicals.
4. Supplement Your Detox
• Take a daily supplement of 1 tablespoon of flax seed oil, walnut oil, or deep-sea fish oil.
• Green Tea is a strong antioxidant, and a great beverage choice for your detox. Be sure to drink decaffeinated green tea.
• Dandelion and Milk Thistle both protect and restore the liver. According to Chinese medicine, the liver is most active in the detoxification process during spring.
• Ginger is a bowel and kidney cleanser. Make yourself tea from fresh ginger root during your detox.
A popular herbal formula among my patients is Internal Cleanse, a special combination of natural herbs to detoxify, calm nerves, clear the mind, promote emotional balance, and ease digestion.
5. Take an Invigorating Herbal Soak
Soak for 20 minutes in a revitalizing herbal bath. Help draw out toxins by infusing your bath water with eucalyptus, wintergreen, peppermint, fennel, cinnamon, and epsom salts.
Wednesday, 11 February 2009
How To Smell Great On Dates
It is the friends you can call up at 4 a.m. that matter.
Marlene Dietrich
Smell is the strongest sense in our memory. For this Valentine's Day, leave a lasting impression on your date with a scintilatting scent by following these tips:
Marlene Dietrich
Smell is the strongest sense in our memory. For this Valentine's Day, leave a lasting impression on your date with a scintilatting scent by following these tips:
1) Take a shower. Use soap or body wash of the same brand as your perfume or cologne, if possible. Layering your fragrance will help it last longer. Use a deodorant and anti perspirant combination.
2) Apply your fragrance directly to your damp body. This helps the pores to capture the scent and release it as your body heat increases.
3) Make sure you hit all the targets: the neck, behind the ears, armpits, back of the knees, belly button, and a little in the undergarment.
4) Spray the wrists too, each one. Do not rub them together applying. This crushes the delicate scent and can change it the way it reacts to your body's natural scent.
5) Select delightful scents. Whatever your choose, make sure it's in the limelight. Use spicy and warm scents for the winter, citrus and light florals for the summer and spring.
Source: New Straits Times
Tuesday, 10 February 2009
5 Foods For Healthier Skin
You're my friend - What a thing friendship is, world without end!
Robert Browning "The Flight of the Duchess"
You can invest half your paycheck in serums and creams - even splurge on dermal fillers and pricey facials - but none of it will get you far without a skin-friendly diet.
Of course, your skin (and the rest of you, for that matter) is best served by a well-rounded diet, including healthy fats, sufficient protein, and lots of fruits and vegetables. But there are a few nutritional standouts that make particularly important contributions to strong, glowing skin:
1. Fish
Fatty fish like salmon, tilapia, and cod are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. And that's a good thing, because our bodies cannot produce those essential lipids naturally. By adding omega-3s to your diet, though, you can bolster your skin barrier - that is, the layer of lipids that holds onto moisture and keeps irritants out.
There is even evidence that the skin-strengthening effects of omega-3s can improve chronic skin conditions like rosacea and atopic dermatitis, but more research is necessary to confirm that link.
Furthermore, many types of fish (like, once again, salmon and cod) are rich in vitamin D - as dermatologists increasingly emphasize sun avoidance, we also need to emphasize the importance of finding other sources of this vitamin, which is produced during sun exposure.
Don't eat fish? Many eggs are now fortified with omega-3 fatty acids, and plant sources include flax seed and flax seed oil, walnuts, pecans, and hazelnuts. And a daily vitamin D supplement is a good idea for vegans and meat-eaters alike.
2. Green Tea
It's inexpensive, easy to add to your routine, and one of the best-researched and most powerful antioxidants around. That's why green tea is my go-to antioxidant: I drink at least three cups a day to fight aging and inflammation. Some studies even suggest that the antioxidants in green tea reduce one's risk of skin cancer. So put down that soda and start drinking your way to healthier skin!
3. Broccoli
Rich in vitamins A, C, and K (among many other nutrients), this veggie does more than its fair share of nutritional work. Vitamin A decreases oil production, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, and vitamin K can help prevent bruises. So whatever ails you, this green wonderfood might be just what the doctor ordered.
4. Safflower or Sunflower Oil
Omega-3s get a lot more talk, but omega-6 fatty acids - like the linoleic acid in these two oils - are also important for healthy skin. Like omega-3s, they help prevent dry skin and inflammation; they're also essential for the formation of prostaglandins, hormones that keep all the cells of the body functioning well.
While many diets are actually quite high in omega-6s - sometimes even too high - the key is to get the good ones and not unhealthy versions, like hydrogenated oils. So try sautéing your salmon or broccoli in a little safflower or sunflower oil and double those skin-soothing benefits!
5. Almonds
When it comes to boosting skin's defenses against aging, inflammation, and even skin cancer, antioxidants are so important that I'm going to add another to my list: A handful of almonds every day boosts your levels of vitamin E, one of the most important antioxidants for skin health. Studies also suggest that consuming vitamin E orally can increase the levels of this moisturizing vitamin on your skin's surface - great news for anyone prone to dry skin.
Wishing you great skin (and bon appetit)!
Source: Yahoo! Health
Dr. Leslie Baumann M.D. is author of the best-selling book," The Skin Type Solution." To learn more about her revolutionary skin typing system, visit her website, SkinTypeSolutions.com.
Robert Browning "The Flight of the Duchess"
You can invest half your paycheck in serums and creams - even splurge on dermal fillers and pricey facials - but none of it will get you far without a skin-friendly diet.
Of course, your skin (and the rest of you, for that matter) is best served by a well-rounded diet, including healthy fats, sufficient protein, and lots of fruits and vegetables. But there are a few nutritional standouts that make particularly important contributions to strong, glowing skin:
1. Fish
Fatty fish like salmon, tilapia, and cod are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. And that's a good thing, because our bodies cannot produce those essential lipids naturally. By adding omega-3s to your diet, though, you can bolster your skin barrier - that is, the layer of lipids that holds onto moisture and keeps irritants out.
There is even evidence that the skin-strengthening effects of omega-3s can improve chronic skin conditions like rosacea and atopic dermatitis, but more research is necessary to confirm that link.
Furthermore, many types of fish (like, once again, salmon and cod) are rich in vitamin D - as dermatologists increasingly emphasize sun avoidance, we also need to emphasize the importance of finding other sources of this vitamin, which is produced during sun exposure.
Don't eat fish? Many eggs are now fortified with omega-3 fatty acids, and plant sources include flax seed and flax seed oil, walnuts, pecans, and hazelnuts. And a daily vitamin D supplement is a good idea for vegans and meat-eaters alike.
2. Green Tea
It's inexpensive, easy to add to your routine, and one of the best-researched and most powerful antioxidants around. That's why green tea is my go-to antioxidant: I drink at least three cups a day to fight aging and inflammation. Some studies even suggest that the antioxidants in green tea reduce one's risk of skin cancer. So put down that soda and start drinking your way to healthier skin!
3. Broccoli
Rich in vitamins A, C, and K (among many other nutrients), this veggie does more than its fair share of nutritional work. Vitamin A decreases oil production, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, and vitamin K can help prevent bruises. So whatever ails you, this green wonderfood might be just what the doctor ordered.
4. Safflower or Sunflower Oil
Omega-3s get a lot more talk, but omega-6 fatty acids - like the linoleic acid in these two oils - are also important for healthy skin. Like omega-3s, they help prevent dry skin and inflammation; they're also essential for the formation of prostaglandins, hormones that keep all the cells of the body functioning well.
While many diets are actually quite high in omega-6s - sometimes even too high - the key is to get the good ones and not unhealthy versions, like hydrogenated oils. So try sautéing your salmon or broccoli in a little safflower or sunflower oil and double those skin-soothing benefits!
5. Almonds
When it comes to boosting skin's defenses against aging, inflammation, and even skin cancer, antioxidants are so important that I'm going to add another to my list: A handful of almonds every day boosts your levels of vitamin E, one of the most important antioxidants for skin health. Studies also suggest that consuming vitamin E orally can increase the levels of this moisturizing vitamin on your skin's surface - great news for anyone prone to dry skin.
Wishing you great skin (and bon appetit)!
Source: Yahoo! Health
Dr. Leslie Baumann M.D. is author of the best-selling book," The Skin Type Solution." To learn more about her revolutionary skin typing system, visit her website, SkinTypeSolutions.com.
Monday, 9 February 2009
Malaysian Weekend: Can Our Music Go International?
Today's venue for the Malaysian Weekend is at Taman Tasik Titiwangsa. So we had Atilia and Jaclyn Victor as our guests to discuss the the topic of the day which was: "Can Our Music Go International?". So what do you guys think of the topic?
Tuesday, 3 February 2009
Maximising Your Free Time
Life is partly what we make it, and partly what it is made by the friends whom we choose.
Tehyi Hseih
Life is full of changes that can open sudden voids of free time in your life: retirement, career changes, having your kids leave the nest, graduating from school, etc. Or just taking time out to find yourself. Here are some ways to maximise your free time:
1) Keep a journal about your life and how you'd like it to be.
Be sure to describe the activities you are trying out in your free time so you can evaluate whether or not they are worth continuing to do. One way to appreciate life more is at the end of the day, before you go to sleep, write five things from that day which you are grateful. It may be hard to think of 5 things at first, but it is OK to repeat things from previous days, and you will yourslef looking for good things throughout the day to write down at night. This will improve your outlook on life. Try it!
2) Get yourself in top physical shape.
Consult with your doctor about starting an exercise programmed. A good starting point would be to walk for 30 minutes each day around your neighbourhood for three days each week.
3) Join (or return) to your place of worship.
This is a safe way to meet interesting people and get involved in your community. You don't even have to be all that religious.
4) Volunteer your time and expertise.
Search the internet or the Yellow Pages for voluteer organisations in your area. Anyone, however inexperienced, can contribute something useful. You can work as little or as much as you want to.
5) Take up a hobby.
Remember what brought you the most fun in childhood and try some acceptable variation on it. Some kids liked caring for animals, some liked tinkering with tools, some liked playing board games. You get the idea. There's a hobby for everyone.
6) Turn off the TV and read more books.
Describe in a book journal what you've read, and what your reactions were. Join a book club.
7) Get a pet from the local animal shelter.
You will save a life and become the center of the little critter's world.
8) Try gardening.
Cacti are amazing, grow gorgeous flowers, and are almost impossible to kill. Or you could try herbs which are easier to grow, fun to use (in cooking or in crafts).
9) Declutter your home.
This could take months, but it is essential to clear space for your new life. Get rid of anything you haven't used in more than a year: have a garage sale, donate to charity, or just recycle/throw it away.
10) Go back to school.
It can be either for fun or to broaden your skill base or both. Continuing-education courses at your local community college can be low-priced.
11) Try painting or something crafty.
Some types of painting are acrylics, enamel, encaustic (wax), frescos, gouache, inks, oils, heat-set oils, water miscible oils, pastels and dry pastels, oil pastels, pastel pencils, spray paint (graffiti), tempera, watercolour and sketching.
12) Pull out a cookbook and try some new recipes.
Look into your fridge and cupboards, then Google a recipe using those ingredients (for example, search for "broccoli pineapple jalapeno recipes").
13) Learn to meditate.
Sit quietly for 20 minutes and breathe naturally. Count your breaths up to 10, then start over again. The idea is to have something on which to focus, so that you stay present and don't drift off mentally. After several weeks, you may begin to notice positive results in your life: more clamness, better concentration, more focus, more understanding of how negative the usual mental chatter can be.
Take your time trying stuff out. Something that initially seems hard may start to grown on you. Remember it is your life, so make the most of it!
Source: New Straits Times
Tehyi Hseih
Life is full of changes that can open sudden voids of free time in your life: retirement, career changes, having your kids leave the nest, graduating from school, etc. Or just taking time out to find yourself. Here are some ways to maximise your free time:
1) Keep a journal about your life and how you'd like it to be.
Be sure to describe the activities you are trying out in your free time so you can evaluate whether or not they are worth continuing to do. One way to appreciate life more is at the end of the day, before you go to sleep, write five things from that day which you are grateful. It may be hard to think of 5 things at first, but it is OK to repeat things from previous days, and you will yourslef looking for good things throughout the day to write down at night. This will improve your outlook on life. Try it!
2) Get yourself in top physical shape.
Consult with your doctor about starting an exercise programmed. A good starting point would be to walk for 30 minutes each day around your neighbourhood for three days each week.
3) Join (or return) to your place of worship.
This is a safe way to meet interesting people and get involved in your community. You don't even have to be all that religious.
4) Volunteer your time and expertise.
Search the internet or the Yellow Pages for voluteer organisations in your area. Anyone, however inexperienced, can contribute something useful. You can work as little or as much as you want to.
5) Take up a hobby.
Remember what brought you the most fun in childhood and try some acceptable variation on it. Some kids liked caring for animals, some liked tinkering with tools, some liked playing board games. You get the idea. There's a hobby for everyone.
6) Turn off the TV and read more books.
Describe in a book journal what you've read, and what your reactions were. Join a book club.
7) Get a pet from the local animal shelter.
You will save a life and become the center of the little critter's world.
8) Try gardening.
Cacti are amazing, grow gorgeous flowers, and are almost impossible to kill. Or you could try herbs which are easier to grow, fun to use (in cooking or in crafts).
9) Declutter your home.
This could take months, but it is essential to clear space for your new life. Get rid of anything you haven't used in more than a year: have a garage sale, donate to charity, or just recycle/throw it away.
10) Go back to school.
It can be either for fun or to broaden your skill base or both. Continuing-education courses at your local community college can be low-priced.
11) Try painting or something crafty.
Some types of painting are acrylics, enamel, encaustic (wax), frescos, gouache, inks, oils, heat-set oils, water miscible oils, pastels and dry pastels, oil pastels, pastel pencils, spray paint (graffiti), tempera, watercolour and sketching.
12) Pull out a cookbook and try some new recipes.
Look into your fridge and cupboards, then Google a recipe using those ingredients (for example, search for "broccoli pineapple jalapeno recipes").
13) Learn to meditate.
Sit quietly for 20 minutes and breathe naturally. Count your breaths up to 10, then start over again. The idea is to have something on which to focus, so that you stay present and don't drift off mentally. After several weeks, you may begin to notice positive results in your life: more clamness, better concentration, more focus, more understanding of how negative the usual mental chatter can be.
Take your time trying stuff out. Something that initially seems hard may start to grown on you. Remember it is your life, so make the most of it!
Source: New Straits Times
Thursday, 22 January 2009
HOT Food: The Briyani, Taipan USJ
Today's HOT Food segment highlights a new eating place called The Briyani. Located in Taipan in USJ 10, the shop faces the main road so it's not difficult to spot it once you have reached USJ 10. The Briyani is the first of the many outlets that is soon to be opened in Malaysia. Just think the Chicken Rice Shop but The Briyani.
The Briyani at Taipan, USJ 10.
The Beef Briyani.
The Special Naan.
Interviewing the owner.
Some of the food & beverages of The Briyani.
The Briyani
65, Ground Floor,
Jalan USJ 10/1A (Taipan),
47620 Subang Jaya,
Selangor Darul Ehsan.
T: 03-5638 3740/4740 or 03-8024 3740
F: 03-8024 3740
E: info@dfosbriyanihouse.com.my
W: www.dfosbriyanihouse.com.my
Opening Hours: 11am-10.30pm
The Briyani at Taipan, USJ 10.
The Beef Briyani.
The Special Naan.
Interviewing the owner.
Some of the food & beverages of The Briyani.The Briyani
65, Ground Floor,
Jalan USJ 10/1A (Taipan),
47620 Subang Jaya,
Selangor Darul Ehsan.
T: 03-5638 3740/4740 or 03-8024 3740
F: 03-8024 3740
E: info@dfosbriyanihouse.com.my
W: www.dfosbriyanihouse.com.my
Opening Hours: 11am-10.30pm
Monday, 5 January 2009
Exercising Safely
No man is the whole of himself; his friends are the rest of him.
Harry Emerson
If you are out of shape or have existing health problems, you should always seek your doctor's advice before embarking on an exercise regime. Bear in mind that you can have too much of a good thing: over-exercising, exercising with an incorrect technique ot roo much weight loss can harm bone development and cause injuries. To avoid strain, sprains and other injuries, follow these recommendations:
Warm up before exercise
This helps to avoid muscle injuries by preparing your body for activity. Stretching is especially important in the morning, when the muscles are less flexible and injures more likely.
Cool down after exercise
Rather than stopping abruptly, do a few gentle stretches to avoid aches and pains later.
Exercise within your limits
Build up slowly, pace yourslef and listen to your body. Pain is a warning sign, so never ignore or try to work through it.
Avoid sudden twisting movements
Movements that cause you to sharply bend or twist your back can place excessive strain on your spine, especially if you are out of shape.
Stay hydrated
Water is important to maintain your core temperature during exercise and prevent fatigue and muscle cramps.
Wear supportive shoes
Cushioned, flexible soles help to absorb shocks and prevent joint injury.
Source: Reader's Digest (Jan '09)
Harry Emerson
If you are out of shape or have existing health problems, you should always seek your doctor's advice before embarking on an exercise regime. Bear in mind that you can have too much of a good thing: over-exercising, exercising with an incorrect technique ot roo much weight loss can harm bone development and cause injuries. To avoid strain, sprains and other injuries, follow these recommendations:
Warm up before exercise
This helps to avoid muscle injuries by preparing your body for activity. Stretching is especially important in the morning, when the muscles are less flexible and injures more likely.
Cool down after exercise
Rather than stopping abruptly, do a few gentle stretches to avoid aches and pains later.
Exercise within your limits
Build up slowly, pace yourslef and listen to your body. Pain is a warning sign, so never ignore or try to work through it.
Avoid sudden twisting movements
Movements that cause you to sharply bend or twist your back can place excessive strain on your spine, especially if you are out of shape.
Stay hydrated
Water is important to maintain your core temperature during exercise and prevent fatigue and muscle cramps.
Wear supportive shoes
Cushioned, flexible soles help to absorb shocks and prevent joint injury.
Source: Reader's Digest (Jan '09)
Saturday, 3 January 2009
5 Steps To A New You For 2009
A friend is a present you give yourself.
Robert Louis Stevenson
TV presenter turned chiropractic assistant and fitness instructor Andi Lew has co-authored a natural health book, 7 Things Your Doctor Forgot To Tell You (Rockpool Publishing), with her husband, Dr Warren Sipser.
1) Change your approach to health
If we don't take responsibility for our health and wait for drugs and surgery to 'save' us, it may be too late. Health hapens by choice, not chance, and prevention is the best cure.
2) Have a "wellness chiropractic check-up
Your nervous system controls every cell, tissue and organ in the body, so by removing interference, you make your whole body work better.
3) Detox
Eat as close to nature as possible, so your body receives nutrition that fuels your vitality. Avoid artificial sweeteners, preservatives, additives and packaged foods.
4) Try a natural approach to medications where possible
Side-effects are still side effects and affect you. Work with primary health-care practitioner and explore a natural approach where possible.
5) Connect with nature and loved ones
Gardening, like planting trees, and incidental exercise, like walking to the store instead of driving, is better for you and the environment.
Robert Louis Stevenson
TV presenter turned chiropractic assistant and fitness instructor Andi Lew has co-authored a natural health book, 7 Things Your Doctor Forgot To Tell You (Rockpool Publishing), with her husband, Dr Warren Sipser.
1) Change your approach to health
If we don't take responsibility for our health and wait for drugs and surgery to 'save' us, it may be too late. Health hapens by choice, not chance, and prevention is the best cure.
2) Have a "wellness chiropractic check-up
Your nervous system controls every cell, tissue and organ in the body, so by removing interference, you make your whole body work better.
3) Detox
Eat as close to nature as possible, so your body receives nutrition that fuels your vitality. Avoid artificial sweeteners, preservatives, additives and packaged foods.
4) Try a natural approach to medications where possible
Side-effects are still side effects and affect you. Work with primary health-care practitioner and explore a natural approach where possible.
5) Connect with nature and loved ones
Gardening, like planting trees, and incidental exercise, like walking to the store instead of driving, is better for you and the environment.
Thursday, 1 January 2009
New Year, New Changes
The only way to have a friend is to be one.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Ralph Waldo Emerson
The view of KL on the stroke of midnight.
Then the fireworks started, ushering in the year 2009.
Yes, 2009 is here! Happy New Year everyone! I'm sure most of you, including myself, have made our new year's resolutions and trying our hardest to stick to them. Well, whatever it is, the best of luck to you! As for me, my aim this year (unlike all the previous years which was to lose weight. Not really happening there, right?) is to live healthily and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Which means I have to exercise regularly and eat correctly.
I noticed that all these years, I have made the wrong approach. My goal before this was to lose weight, sometimes at any cost. So I have spent quite a lot to only having a temporary outcome. Well, this time around, I'm doing a different and healthier approach. Wish me luck! :)
On another note, Hello On Two, the show which I have been one of the hosts for more than 3 years, is now known as HOT@1. It has been changed to TV1 now, with the new timeslot at 9-10am. HOT@1 boasts with a new set, a new image, a new concept, and a new 'live' band! I had the honour of hosting the first day with Raja Yasmin, a new addition to the HOT family :)
Hosting the show with Raja Yasmin on the first day of HOT@1.
Winding-up the first show with the gang.
Old and new faces of HOT@1: Terrence, Raja Yasmin, Zamil and Stephen at the new set.
Wednesday, 31 December 2008
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