All posts by Maria

Hibiscus Tea- Why you need to start drinking it Now!

Tips, , ,

Hibiscus Tea and its health benefits. If you are tired of regular Green and Black tea, then Switch to Hibiscus Tea. In this post, learn everything about it and how to prepare this exotic tea that is loaded with health benefits.

Benefits of Hibiscus Tea

There was a time when a was a coffee addict, I was so addicted to my caffeine shots that I couldn’t work, couldn’t concentrate, in fact, couldn’t sleep without having my cup! And when I say Cup I mean a Big Fat cup! I wanted to break free from this habit and to do so I needed a substitute. For almost a year I have been religiously drinking my Green tea with mint and lately, I have been tired of the same old taste. I have also been reading a lot about the harmful effects of Tea Bags (Yes, those innocent-looking tiny white bags are considered to be harmful to your health!) This was a perfect time to shop around and look for a substitute and this is when I switched to Hibiscus Tea.

What is Hibiscus Tea?

I jumped from one Tea to another but nothing seemed to catch hold of my interest. This is when I decided to make my own fun tea! I bought loose green tea leaves, bought dried hibiscus petals (both are sold in almost all departmental stores in spices or tea section) Mixed these two in the ratio of 1:1 I bought a tea infuser and viola my new tea was ready!! Now let’s talk about the benefits.

Why Hibiscus Tea?

  1. Prevents Hypertension
  2. Lowers Cholesterol Levels
  3. Brings Down Blood Sugar Levels
  4. Keeps Your Liver Healthy
  5. Treats Menstrual Cramps
  6. Treats Depression
  7. Aids Digestion
  8. Great for skin
  9. Body Coolant
  10. Weight Management
  11. Anti-Ageing
  12. Rich In Vitamin C
  13. A Drink For All Seasons
  14. Chemo-Preventive Effect
  15. Is Vermifuge/Antibacterial and much more!

So, How does Hibiscus Tea taste like?!

It has a taste that is very similar to cranberry juice. It can definitely be described as tart, so you can add sugar or honey to increase the sweetness. Also, you can try adding spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, anise star or ginger depending on your taste.

It is important to note that there are over 200 species of hibiscus, and not all of them are used for tea or healing. For instance, the Hibiscus sabdariffa plant should not be confused with other hibiscus species, such as the non-medicinal Hibiscus Acetosella. The traditional hibiscus plant has yellow flowers and a red centre. The Hibiscus Ascetosella has red flowers.

If you are like my mum who just hates the taste of regular hibiscus tea then this recipe is for you:

How to Prepare the perfect Hibiscus Tea?

You’ll need:

  • 4 cups of pure filtered water
  • 1/4 cup of dried organic hibiscus flowers
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons of raw honey
  • Lime wedges (optional)
  • Fresh mint leaves (optional)
  • Cinnamon Stick (optional)

Directions:

  • Boil half of the filtered water in a small saucepan.
  • Add the dried hibiscus flowers and then turn off the heat. Next, steep the liquid until it appears dark red.
  • Add the remaining two cups of filtered water to the hot tea, and add the raw honey to achieve sweetness when the tea is still warm. You can drink the hibiscus tea hot as it stands. Hot hibiscus tea is also sometimes called Jamaica tea.
  • As an option, pour the tea into a pitcher for serving. Pour the tea into iced-filled glasses. If you like you can also garnish with mint, lime and cinnamon sticks.

Go ahead and enjoy, don’t forget to tell me when you try it! Don’t forget to check out more tips and tricks here.

Best Home-Made Drink to Strengthen your Immunity

Everything Else!, Tips,
Home-Made Drink to Strengthen your Immunity

As cases of coronavirus continue to rise on a daily basis, taking daily precautions such as washing your hands, social distancing, exercising and getting enough sleep is key to lowering the risk of infection.

But maintaining a healthy diet to help boost your immune system is also very essential. It’s important to note that no research has been done on foods that help fight against COVID-19 specifically.

However, previous studies have found that eating certain foods can improve your health and strengthen your body’s overall ability to fight other invasive viruses.

Cheers to good health! Here’s the Best Home-Made Drink to Strengthen your Immunity, this herbal Tea that has so many benefits that I want to call it Miracle Tea!
I’ve recommended it to so many people and most of them got back to me saying that they found it effective.

Some of the benefits of this Home-Made Drink to Strengthen your Immunity:

  • Boasts immunity.
  • Soothes the sore throat.
  • Reduces cough and congestion.
  • Reduces muscle pain.
  • Relieves headache and body ache.
  • Reduces menstrual and abdominal pain.
  • Improves digestion.
  • Improves the body’s fat-burning capability.
  • So on!
    Out of all the important lessons, this pandemic has taught I think the most important one is to take care of our immune system and our health.
Ingredients

What do you need?

  • 500ML water
  • 1 teaspoon Honey (optional but recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon Jaggery
  • 2 teaspoons Carrom Seed (Ajwain)
  • 2 teaspoons Fennel Seed (Saunf)
  • 2 leaves of Holy/Indian Basil
  • 1 piece of Cinnamon stick
  • 5 cloves (Laung)
  • 5 Black Pepper (Kaali Mirch)
  • 1 inch Ginger
  • 1 Teaspoon Coffee or 1 Teabag (Optional, To improve the taste)

How to Prepare?

To prepare this Home-Made Drink to Strengthen your Immunity, you need to Boil water on low flame with all the ingredients except honey and the teabag. Let the concoction simmer for about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the flame and add the teabag (or coffee) and honey. Drink while it is still warm.

When to drink?

You can drink this any time of the day but there should be a gap of at least 2 hrs. between this drink and a meal. (Your stomach should be empty)

Best time to drink this is in the morning before breakfast or in the evening.

How many times to drink?

You can drink this Home-Made Drink to Strengthen your Immunity once a day or even 2-3 times a day. Remember, moderation and consistency is the key.

Disclaimer: Please ask your doctor before trying anything new, I’m NOT a health expert, I just share whatever suits me and has been beneficial for me.

Don’t forget to read more such posts here.

COVID-19‌ ‌While‌ ‌Traveling‌- What‌ ‌to‌ ‌Do‌

Everything Else!, Guest Posts, ,

With COVID-19 measures easing, some countries have begun to allow air travel once again. This makes for an especially interesting time to travel, given that COVID-19 cases are as high as they’ve ever been. According to WorldMeter, a website that pulls COVID-19 statistics from a series of government and health-related websites, there were 31 million cases worldwide on the 22nd of September, 2020. Therefore, if you plan to travel, you should know what to do if you experience COVID-19 symptoms while travelling.

What to do

Risks and Symptoms

First, you should understand early warning signs that may suggest you have COVID-19. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the presence of a COVID infection is gradual and easily noticeable but also can be confused with other conditions such as allergies or the common flu. Either way, be on the lookout for the following signs and COVID-19 symptoms while travelling:

  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Dry cough
  • Body aches
  • Shortness of breath

Each of these symptoms may begin within two to 14 days after coming into contact with an infected person or surface. Less common symptoms may include a sore throat, chills, loss of smell or taste, congestion, and even diarrhoea. More severe symptoms may include:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Constant pain in the chest
  • Blue lips and/or face
  • Loss of smell/taste
  • Sudden confusion

If you experience any more severe symptoms, you should immediately contact the local emergency services and tell them you suspect you have COVID-19 and explain why. Aside from looking out for symptoms, there are several things you can do to prevent infection in the first place.

Prevent Infection While Traveling

The best advice would be to not travel, yet that may not be realistic for you. If you must travel, then bring along plenty of disposable face masks as they can reduce the chance of infection by preventing the spread of droplets when you cough or sneeze. The use of face masks is also widely supported by the likes of the CDC and other health-related institutions such as Johns Hopkins.

Aside from masks, you can also plan for travel that is more secluded from others. If possible, try to sit away from other travellers and wash your hands often. Currently, the World Health Organization suggests maintaining a distance of 3 meters from others, while some studies suggest that COVID-19 can live in the air up to 13 feet or more from the infected person.

What to Do Before Traveling

Now that you know what are the COVID-19 symptoms while travelling and know to wear a mask, you should prepare a plan before travelling. You should first find the emergency services contact information for the area you’ll be travelling to. For instance, not every country has the same emergency services phone number. In other circumstances, some countries may have plenty of people who speak your language, and others may not. It may be a good idea to write down a few phrases in the native language. For example, you could find out how to say, “I believe I have COVID-19.” In that case, a simple phrase could make a difference.

You should also create a plan in case you do experience symptoms or contract COVID-19. For example, besides emergency services, you may also want to contact family or loved ones. You should also make sure you have access to accommodations and money to quarantine for up to 21 days in case you do get COVID-19 symptoms while travelling.

What to Do While Traveling

So, even with all those precautions, what if you still notice symptoms similar to COVID-19 while travelling, then what? The first step is to isolate yourself. Let’s say you are in a crowded market looking for a good deal in a foreign country. Then suddenly it hits you: You’ve had a mild fever and dry cough that has lasted the entire day. Now is the time to put on a face mask and get to a less crowded area. If you’re travelling with others, you should inform them of this as well. Try to maintain a safe distance from those you’re travelling with and leave the area.

Next, you’ll need to notify the authorities. Even if you end up not having COVID-19, it’s still important to get tested. Call the local emergency services number and tell them you are experiencing symptoms similar to COVID-19. From that point on, your mileage may vary. Some countries may have a strict protocol if you have COVID-19 symptoms while travelling, while others may not. If you’re in a more developed nation, you’ll be told to stay there, and emergency services will come to pick you up. You’ll likely be put into a specially made and isolated environment until your test comes back. If you do have COVID-19 but are not at risk and aren’t experiencing severe symptoms, then you’ll likely need to quarantine for 14 to 21 days. This may be troubling and put a burden on you. Just remember it will soon be over and don’t turn to a substance like alcohol for relief. In many cases, substance abuse will only make the matter worse. If you believe you have a substance abuse problem, then click here now.

Save money on pets – A complete guide

Everything Else!, Tips, , , ,

Save money on pets while still spoiling them! We all consider our pets our children and let us agree that we all want to spoil our fur-babies! But that doesn’t mean you can’t find ways to save money on pet care. For example, you can buy lavish pet-food, but on sale. You can build elaborate (or simple) pet furniture, instead of paying a heap of money for it. Here are some tips and tricks that I learnt while taking care of my 7 (yes!) fur-babies.

How to save money on pets

1. Adopt Instead of Buying

This has to be the thumb rule, “buying” animals is unethical as Most breeders and “Pet Markets” keep animals in terrible conditions and also the pets carry a lot of diseases due to cross-breeding and over-breeding. The breeder price for a dog is multiples higher than the cost of adopting one from a shelter. You’ll probably save money on pets by getting your dog or cat from a shelter, and you could also save a life. Also, most shelters or rescue groups have the option for a “Trial adoption period” or you can request for “fostering a pet” that helps you in understanding your future fur-baby in a better way. If, due to any reason you can’t commit for the long term, you should always go for Fostering, read more about it here.

2. Always Buy In Bulk

If you want to save money on pets then when shopping for dogs and cats, then always buy in bulk.  Dry kibble tends to be more cost-effective than canned food. If you buy large bags of kibble in bulk be sure to preserve small portions in plastic bags or purchase an airtight storage container. Additionally, don’t be afraid to think outside the box, you may have some friends with pets who might be willing to split a jumbo bag of food. Look for deals online.

3. Store Pet Food Properly

Alright, so you bought pet food in bulk but now if you don’t store it properly you will not exactly be able to save money on pets but instead spending more. I discovered early on that our cats refuse their food if it’s too old — and then we have to throw it away. Even if we just overfill their dishes and the remainder sits there overnight, they won’t touch it. ALWAYS check the expiration date for your pet food, take out a little at a time and store it properly to keep it fresh.

4. Make Your Own Toys

Yes, you read that right! This one has a number of benefits, you will be saving money, the planet (Reduce, Recycle and Reuse!). Your pet has no clue how much you spent on a toy, only whether or not it’s fun to play with! Honestly, it is a lot of fun, especially now that we are all stuck in our houses in this pandemic (I am writing this in the year 2020 when the Covid-19 turned our lives upside down!)

5. Avoid Expensive Fashion Items

This one is hard to resist, I mean have you seen those cute pet-vests or those fancy little hats (!!) but believe me, I have taken that road and it is Expensive! Most pets, however, don’t need these expensive accessories, so save your money and stick with purchasing only necessary apparel, like a well-made collar, an ID tag and a comfortable leash. If you really want to get something fancy then there are plenty of DIY tutorials that will help you in making these items at home.

6. Learn to Groom at Home

Pet grooming is important and should not be skipped but there are a number of procedures you can perform yourself instead of visiting an expensive groomer. Take the time to learn how to groom your pets at home, buy your products, create a grooming kit, schedule weekly/monthly grooming sessions at home. Not only will this help you in saving heaps of money but also you will get a better understanding of your pet’s overall health and grooming is another opportunity to bond with your pet. Save money on pets and bond with your furry friends, Win-Win!

7. Use generic items

Pet blankets, Pet towels, Pet food bowls and what not! All these items are marketed at almost more than double the price just cause the item has “Pet” word attached to it, though it does exactly the same work! Read about the item you are looking for, buy a generic product and use it for your pets. For instance, instead of a Pet Bowl, you can buy steel or ceramic bowl from a store.

8. Have Your Pets Spayed or Neutered

If you adopt a pet then they will most likely be spayed or neutered when you pick them up, if not, get them spayed or neutered before it is too late. Those little ones are cute but if you are trying to save money on pets, spending the money to have them fixed will be a lot less than having to care for a pregnant mama and little ones.

9. Go for used items

There are many pet owners that sell their almost new pet items due to various reasons, get in touch with them, buying used items will save you a lot of money. Join Facebook groups of your community or pet rescue groups, there are also lots of apps/websites that sell used items. However, always clean and sanitize items before letting your pets play/use it, you don’t want any infections to be passed on to them.

10. Save on Treats

Pets love treats and it would be unfair not to give them some yummy treats from time to time but keeping in mind that these treats are expensive you can cut down on the expenses by making your own treats at home or buying in bulk. Making treats at home is simple and also a good way to ensure that you make it nutritious.

11. Exercise Your Pet

Pets that don’t get enough exercise can turn into troublemakers, or even become utterly destructive! Replacing chewed up furniture is a massive expense, and you can avoid it by making sure your pet has a healthy outlet for all their energy!

Make sure to take your dog on regular walks, and be sure to give cats proper exercise too. Some cats love dangly toys, others love chasing laser pointers, and others prefer climbing. Try out a few things to find the best way to keep your dog or cat active!

12. Buy Cheaper Bags

When it comes to picking up dog or cat poop, literally any bag will do! Since many pet owners have to buy poop bags frequently, make sure you’re getting a good deal on them or best is to utilize all those grocery bags or shopping bags for this.

Mental Health- How to take care of it.

Everything Else!, Guest Posts, , ,

A couple of months into the coronavirus pandemic, the world is already on the verge of another health crisis, with daily doses of death, isolation and fear generating widespread psychological trauma.

Mental health is an issue that has been on a rise since the Global Pandemic came into existence. This is a topic that we are still not very vocal about and has a stigma attached to it. Though, we have come a long way yet there is a long way to go when it comes to Mental Health. Many celebrities and social media influencers have now started opening up about their stories and have encouraged others to do the same. In this post, I will not only talk about this Taboo topic but also will try to discuss some important points related to mental health.

The A-B-C of Mental Health

Attitudes toward mental illness and those that live with mental health problems have perpetuated stigma and discrimination since the very beginning of humankind. Today, even in nations where ample attempts have been made to better understand mental health and work on destigmatization, those experiencing mental health problems still find themselves isolated. 

What is Mental Health?

WHO defines Mental Health as “A state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.”

The WHO stress that mental health is “more than just the absence of mental disorders or disabilities.” Peak mental health is about not only avoiding active conditions but also looking after ongoing wellness and happiness. They also emphasize that preserving and restoring mental health is crucial on an individual basis, as well as throughout different communities and societies the world over.

What do the statistics say?

  • Mental health problems are one of the main contributors to the overall disease burden and disability worldwide.
  • One in four individuals are estimated to live with mental illness globally, although there has been some contention on this figure through the years, and more recent data suggests this number is closer to one in six.
  • An overview of the prevalence of the most common mental illnesses reveal that an estimated:
    • 264–300 million individuals worldwide live with depression;
    • 284–300 million live with anxiety-related disorders;
    • 46–60 million live with the bipolar affective disorder;
    • 20–23 million live with schizophrenia;
    • 16 million live with eating disorders.

Perceptions of mental ill-health

  • Over a third of the public think people with a mental health issue are likely to be violent
  • People with severe mental illness are more likely to be the victims, rather than the perpetrators, of violent crime
  • People with mental ill-health are more dangerous to themselves than to others: 80-90% of people who die by suicide are experiencing mental distress
  • Poor mental health impacts on individuals and their families, in lost income, lower educational attainment, quality of life and a much shorter life span

How to look after your Mental Health?

Express Yourself

Human beings have emotions and an urge to express but in the present scenario, we have mastered the skill to curb them. We pretend we are happy when actually that’s not how we feel and by doing this we are damaging our mental wellbeing and isn’t good for one’s Mental Health if done on a regular basis this practice can push us in a mind space that is really unhealthy. This vicious cycle drags us into depression, anxiety, a feeling of emptiness and what not. So, guys feel free to express.

Give yourself a Break

No, I am not talking about going on that trip you wanted to or taking a break from social media. We Millenials do all this often. I am talking about taking a break from all the overthinking you have been doing lately, the negative thinking and also the comparing yourselves with others. Because, going on a beach vacation and hating yourself of not having the perfect beach body(well girls, that does not exist .you are perfect in your own unique way just embrace it and see the magic unfold)ain’t gonna help. So, just take a break.

Let’s Stop this stigma

Give priority to Self-Love

These days self-love is trending #1 but have we ever thought what actually the word means? Self- love does not only mean solo trips, visit a spa, looking after your physical well being(all that is also important) but the actual fabric of it is embracing yourself as you are and connecting with your inner being. Self-love is a space where you are in complete harmony with yourself. Being your own soul mate first.

The Magic of Positive Thinking

It is not at all difficult to think positively all the time. Some of us think it is not humanly possible to always be okay about everything. Well yes, you are right but we can at least not magnify the problems by being calm and finding a solution. Positive thinking is just the effort we are not ready to make. Why is it too hard to think good about someone or for that matter of yourself or any situation. We just have to make an effort.

Talk to ‘Dear Diary’

There are times when it’s difficult to stay sane and not let the anxiety creep in. Times when life is hitting hard on us, we are not able to cope up and have that balanced and organised life that we want. That is when your journal becomes your hero. Get a journal and just starting writing whatever comes to your mind, spill out all your thoughts and then read it aloud. when your thoughts are on paper it’s easy to sort them out, organize and take actions. I suggest journal every day or do it once a week, twice a month frankly whatever suits you.

Take a stand for Yourself

Remember taking care of yourself is in your own hands so do it right. I myself have been struggling with my mental health and all these steps really helped me evolve, if it worked for me it will work for you as well just have faith!

Hope you enjoyed reading the post, keep yourself busy and learn some new tips and tricks while staying at home, read here.

About the Author-
The author of this post wishes to remain be known by her pen name, i.e. A Brown Girl.
She is a multi-talented interior designer who loves French language and is a writer by choice.
You may follow her podcast here.

How to Adopt or Foster Stray Animals in Dubai

Everything Else!, , , , , ,

Stray Kittens/Cats wandering around on the streets of UAE is not an uncommon sight but helping them can be quite tricky keeping in mind there are so many laws when it comes to stray animals in Dubai/UAE. Some of these cats/kittens are dumped or abandoned by their owners, some a result of breeding, etc. In this post, learn how you can help Stray animals in Dubai without infringing the law, places to adopt stray animals, related laws, etc.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B_ApRBepbRj/

Everything about feeding stray cats.

When people begin to feed them, they lose their ability to hunt and survive on their own. This wouldn’t be a problem if people looked after them for the rest of their lives. Unfortunately, most people aren’t able to do so and pets often end up on the streets.

Stray cats should only be fed once every other day, you can leave some dry food in a tray or plate. This pushes them to still hunt and keep their survival skills. Try to keep cat food near garbage bins or other sources of scraps. This allows the cat to still find food in the area if you aren’t available to feed them any longer. Always sterilize stray cats. This prevents them from breeding and introducing even more cats to a population that already competes for scarce food resources.

Best is to if you can afford to do so, spay or neuter the animal first and then return it to the original location also known as TNR (Trap, Neuter, and Return). TNR will help greatly to reduce the population of stray cats on the streets. 

How to Adopt or Foster Stray Animals in Dubai

When feeding stray cats, what are the Dos and Don’ts?

• Do not feed them milk. Most cats are lactose intolerant. Give them fresh water instead and dry cat food.
• Bones should not be given, be it any kind, especially chicken or fish bones.
• Spicy food and many other food items are extremely harmful to cats.
• Do Not place food directly onto the ground. It makes a mess and attracts ants.

Red Paw Foundation

What should I do if I come across newborn kittens?

While it might be alluring to want to take them home, remember pets are a long time commitment and don’t take them if you can’t keep them. The best thing to do is simply to watch and evaluate the situation, do not touch the newborns else the mother cat will refuse to cater to them. It’s possible the mother is off searching for food or is in the process of moving them to a different location. Try to determine if the mother is coming back for them, or if they are truly orphaned.

Stand far away from the kittens — 35 feet or more. If you stand too close, the mom will not approach her kittens. You might need to go away completely before the mother cat will return to attend to the kittens. It might be several hours before the mother cat returns — until she no longer senses the presence of humans near her litter.

The mother cat is their best chance for survival, so wait and watch as long as you can. The best food for kittens is their mother’s milk. Remove the kittens only if they are in immediate, grave danger. If the mother isn’t around

Pet Adoption JVC

Feeding New Born kittens:

Remember very young kittens will need to feed every two hours, around the clock, to ensure their survival. If you take the kittens in, it is unlikely that you will find an organisation with available staff or volunteers to take on bottle-feeding on short notice.

“If you discover that mom has been hit by a car, or if for any reason it appears that she is not coming back, then you should remove the kittens. This is crucial to the kittens’ survival. But you must be prepared to see this project through to weaning if you decide to intervene.”

NYC Feral Cat Initiative

Some organisations do have experienced bottle-feeders, but prior logistical planning is necessary. Animal shelters and veterinarians generally do not take in newborn kittens, since they do not have the staff to feed and stimulate them for elimination around-the-clock.”

Whom can I call to assist with injured Stray Animals in Dubai?

Unfortunately, there isn’t one set number or group in the country to call that can assist with injured animals. Most organisations are self-funded and run by volunteers and others may lack the proper resources. The best thing to do is to be proactive in such circumstances.

The tip of a cat’s ear is cut. What does this mean?

It’s a sign that a street cat has previously been spayed or neutered. Usually, it is a visual way of ensuring they get don’t trap and resubmitted for sterilization.

There are so many Furry Friends waiting for your help

I want to help the stray animals but I can’t adopt, is there anything else I can do?

Yes! Many of us want to help the stray animals in Dubai/UAE but we can’t adopt or are not ready for long term commitment due to our personal reasons. There are plenty of ways in which you can help these organizations apart from adopting pets:

  1. Financial Donations- Almost all these organisations need financial help, most of them have hefty Vet Bills that are pending. You can help them either by donating money, by paying some of the Vet Bills.
  2. Other Donations- Contact them and ask what Cat food/Litter, etc they need and you can drop it directly to them. (How about a Cat-Party on your birthday where you feed lots of these furry-friends?!)
  3. Fostering- These organisations have a large number of pets with limited space and resources, you can help by fostering pets for a couple of months.
  4. Transportation- Many organisations need help with transferring/relocation of pets both within as well as outside UAE. If you are travelling, ask them if they need help.
  5. Spreading the message- Almost all of us have access to social media/WhatsApp/Etc, share their posts and messages so they can reach a larger audience, you never know who might be able to help.

Are there any animal welfare groups, etc I can get in touch for Stray Animals in Dubai?

Fortunately, many good-hearted Samaritans have come together to help stray animals in Dubai (UAE). These organizations/groups not only help stray animals but will also help you in adopting or fostering pets. This is not the complete list, I am sure there are many more, I have tried to list as many as I know of:

Assistance can also be found in the form of Facebook groups as well. Check out The Bin Kitty Collective, Strays of Abu Dhabi, Save Dubai stray cats, New Life Rescue, Ajman strays, Cats & Dogs of Sharjah, RAK Feline Rescues, MEAF (SharjahAjmanUAQ) and Fujairah Animal Rescue.

Hope you enjoyed reading the post, together we can help the stray animals in Dubai (UAE). Do let me know if you have any suggestions/feedbacks/etc. Read more articles here.

How to make healthy Vegan Chocolate Date balls

Everything Else!, , , , ,

Eating junk while stuck in quarantine? Here’s a recipe for Healthy Vegan Chocolate Date Balls, these are tasty, healthy and easy to prepare!

As experts recommend that even those who show no sign of illness stay home during this time of the global pandemic. That’s right: It’s advised that you self-quarantine. Although remaining inside is a good way to protect yourself and others from the coronavirus, and is an important measure to help “flatten the curve”, it could lead to a lesser evil: boredom and stir craziness!!

How to make healthy Vegan Chocolate Date balls

I’m a huge fan of healthy snacks, mainly because I’m one of those people who needs something to munch ALL the time! But so often, snacks from the store are loaded with sugar, fat, salt, or some combination of the three. So. this time I decided to make my own snacks. These Energy balls are filled with the goodness of dates, nuts and taste oh so good and are suitable for Vegans and Vegetarians. I’m such a huge fan of energy balls because I can take them anywhere, and they keep me satiated until dinnertime!

What you need:

  • Pitted Medjool dates: This is the main ingredient, these dates are large, soft, chewy, and VERY sweet. They are amazing, soft, easy to grind and full of nutrients.
  • Natural almond butter: The only ingredient should be almonds. Use good quality of natural almond butter.
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder: I like to use natural cocoa powder, but you can use Dutch-processed cocoa powder if you prefer. It’s milder and not as acidic as natural cocoa powder.
  • Vanilla extract: Try to use the real thing – pure vanilla extract – and not the artificially flavoured stuff.

Optional ingredients:

  • Cinnamon powder: Make sure it’s fresh! A stale spice can easily ruin a dish. I like to add a pinch of freshly grounded cinnamon but it is optional. This gives a very nice and rich aroma.
  • Toppings: You may add toppings if you want.  Cocoa powder, unsweetened shredded coconut, nuts, sesame seeds, etc. (time to get creative!)
Healthy Vegan Chocolate Date balls

How to make Healthy Vegan Chocolate Date Balls?

  1. Process the ingredients (except for the topping ingredients) in your food processor. They will turn into dough.
  2. Quickly knead the dough. Divide it into balls and roll them in the toppings. (Wear gloves or oil your hand, it will make the process so much easier.)
  3. Refrigerate them for an hour before enjoying your Healthy Vegan Chocolate Date Balls.

Some tips for making Healthy Vegan Chocolate Date Balls:

Roughly chop the dates, if needed — If your food processor is older or the blade is slightly dull, you might have to roughly chop the dates before pureeing them. This will make blending all the ingredients together much easier and faster!

Use high-quality ingredients — Because these Healthy Vegan Chocolate Date Balls are so easy to make and use so few ingredients, it’s really important that you use the best ingredients you can get your hands on. If you buy the cheapest ingredients that your grocery store sells, these date balls will not taste the best (Which you don’t want!). You may also want to use pure vanilla extract, if possible.

Use unsweetened coconut — If you’re new to the world of energy balls, you might be doubting the sweetening power of dates. But trust me, these Healthy Vegan Chocolate Date Balls are plenty sweet enough thanks to the dates. If you roll them in sweetened coconut, these will be too sweet!

Add protein powder, if desired — This recipe doesn’t have protein powder in it, but if you’re looking to get in a little more protein, I’d suggest adding 1/3 cup to the recipe.

So many different toppings for healthy Vegan Chocolate Date balls

How to store?

You’ll need to store these Healthy Vegan Chocolate Date Balls in an airtight container in the fridge. These energy balls will keep for up to 2 weeks and stay nice and firm in the fridge. I don’t recommend keeping these on your countertop, as the balls won’t hold their shape well. I’ve never tried keeping these in the freezer, so I’m not sure how that would work out!

Hope you enjoyed reading it as much as I enjoyed eating! Don’t forget to tell me when you try to prepare these! Read more such posts here.

C House Milano Dubai- Let’s gather with friends!

Review Corner, , ,

Looking for a place to chill out with friends while enjoying delicious food and beautiful decor? Look no more, cause your search ends at C House Milano Dubai.

  • C House Milano

The place where the party never ends- C House Milano Dubai

C House Milano Dubai, located in Jebel Ali Recreation Club, where you enjoy authentic Italian and Mediterranean dishes in a stylish and friendly atmosphere. Enjoy good food, drinks and amazing ambience. Jebel Ali Recreation Club has now reopened, and I can’t stop admiring how Lively the place has become! With Live performers including musicians and dancers, it’s a complete different world out there! It’s a completely different world out there!

  • C House Milano- Where the party never ends

Luxurious, charming and handmade food go together at C House Milano Café Restaurant in Jebel Ali Village Recreation Club. Whether you are out on a date, a business meeting or just a casual catch up with your friends, you will live the Milanese experience that includes amazing service, refreshing & elegant décor, C House’s own signature cocktails, authentic Italian dishes and quality coffee blends.

The place should be given a try if you don’t mind driving all the way to Jebel Ali Club. Once you are there I suggest (if the weather permits) you should definitely go for outdoor seating.

Read more restaurant reviews here.

Did Nostradamus and Baba Vanga predict Coronavirus?

Everything Else!, , , , ,

Did Nostradamus and Baba Vanga warn the world and predict coronavirus hundreds of years ago? What did they exactly say? Is this the end of the world?! Is there something we still don’t know? Read now!

Did Nostradamus and Baba Vanga predict the Coronavirus?!

The coronavirus that has infected more than 85,000 people since December, fuelling strange conspiracies and tales that the coronavirus was predicted by Nostradamus and Baba Vanga nearly 500 years ago! For those that believe in people with the ability to predict the future, the most popular names are Nostradamus and Baba Vanga. Although Nostradamus may be much familiar than Vanga, the Bulgarian seer is quite a talent, if of course, you believe in that. Read on to know if these two famous foretellers actually predict coronavirus long before anyone knew about it.

Who was Nostradamus?

Nostradamus
Image Credit: History.com

Nostradamus’ followers consider the man to be a great prophet who foretold the Great Fire of London in 1666 and the rise of Adolf Hitler in 1933. The French astrologer and supposed mystic is believed by many to be a prophet who predicted future events with great accuracy. Nostradamus’ followers credit the writer with predicting the rise of Adolf Hitler in 1933 and the Great Fire of London in 1666 – but did really Nostradamus predict the coronavirus? Keep reading!

Who was Baba Vanga?

Baba Vanga
Image credit: Need magazine

Baba Vanga is applauded as the “Balkan Nostradamus” by her followers due to her supposed powers of foresight. It is believed that the prophet of the Balkans, as she has come to be known, predicted some of the most well-known, major events in the recent history of mankind.

What exactly did Baba Vanga say about the year 2020, did she predict Coronavirus?

Based on Baba Vanga’s prophecies, a great tsunami could strike Asia 16 years after the tragedy of the 2004 tsunami. The 2004 calamity killed more than 220,000 people in SouthEast Asia. If the blind mystic is proven correct next year, another unfortunate wave will sweep through parts of Pakistan, Japan, China, Indonesia.

The blind prophet posthumously rose to global fame in the year 2000 when her prophecy for the sinking of the Russian submarine Kursk proved out to be true. Since then, Baba Vanga’s followers claim she predicted the 9/11 World Trade Center attack, the cataclysmic 2004 tsunami in Thailand and the 2008 election of President Barack Obama. On top of her supposed powers of foresight, Baba Vanga’s supporters believe the blind woman who lived in the village of Rupite, Bulgaria, could communicate with the dead.

Baba Vanga has also predicted the coronavirus. She was talking about the spread of the disease caused by a virus back in the 1970s. But she believed that the epidemic would spread from Africa, not from Asia.

Did Nostradamus predict Coronavirus?

Nostradamus penned his supposed prophecies and predictions in short poems dubbed quatrains. The bulk of his prophecies were published in Les Propheties, where they were divided into Centuries and individual quatrains.

“After great trouble for humanity, a greater one is prepared “The Great Mover renews the ages: “Rain, blood, milk, famine, steel and plague, “Is the heavens fire seen, a long spark running.”

In Century II, Quatrain 6

Nostradamus wrote: 

“Near the gates and within two cities “There will be two scourges the like of which was never seen, “Famine within plague, people put out by steel, “Crying to the great immortal God for relief.”

In Century II, Quatrain 6

However, none of the quatrains appears to in any way directly reference China or the city of Wuhan. And not everyone was convinced by the coronavirus conspiracy theories.

Conclusion:

Do you think that Baba Vanga and Nostradamus could really predict the future? Do you believe in these Conspiracy theories? Do you think their other prophecies will/might come true as well? I leave it to you to decide! Do let me know what you think.

Don’t forget to read more posts from the blog here.

Please note: This article or the author is NOT trying to spread false belief, or promote any such belief. This article is meant solely for entertainment and doesn’t want the readers to believe in or promote fortune-telling. The article is meant for light reading.

Coronavirus- How to safeguard yourself from it.

Everything Else!, , , , , , , ,

With the onset of this deadly virus, everyone is not only scared but also full of queries and doubts. Here is an attempt to answer all your questions and clarify all doubts. Read this post to know everything about Coronavirus or COVID-19. Also included in this post- some myths related to this virus and the latest updates from around the world.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) explained

What is Coronavirus or COVID-19?

According to WHO, “Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). A novel coronavirus (nCoV) is a new strain that has not been previously identified in humans.”

What began with a handful of mysterious illnesses in a vast central China city has now travelled the world, jumping from animals to humans and from obscurity to international headlines. First detected on the last day of 2019, the novel coronavirus has infected more than 85000 as we speak — within China’s borders and beyond them — and has killed more than 2,900. It has triggered unprecedented quarantines, stock market upheaval and dangerous conspiracy theories.

What are the symptoms this coronavirus causes?

The most common symptoms of Coronavirus are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhoea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don’t feel unwell. After a week, it leads to shortness of breath and some patients require hospital treatment. The incubation period – between infection and showing any symptoms – lasts up to 14 days. Around 1 out of every 6 people who get Coronavirus (COVID-19) becomes seriously ill and develops difficulty breathing. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes, are more likely to develop serious illness.

What are the symptoms?

It seems to start with a fever, followed by a dry cough. After a week, it leads to shortness of breath and some patients require hospital treatment. The incubation period – between infection and showing any symptoms – lasts up to 14 days, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). But some researchers say it may be as long as 24 days. And Chinese scientists say some people may be infectious even before their symptoms appear.

How does Coronavirus (COVID-19) spread?

The best explanation for this rapid spread is that it’s being passed through droplets from coughing or sneezing. When these virus-laden droplets from an infected person reach the nose, eyes, or mouth of another, they can transmit the disease.

Protection measures for everyone-

Stay aware of the latest information on the COVID-19 outbreak, available on the WHO website and through your national and local public health authority. COVID-19 is still affecting most people in China with some outbreaks in other countries. Most people who become infected experience mild illness and recover, but it can be more severe for others.

Take care of your health and protect others by doing the following:

  • Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.
    Why? Washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand rub kills viruses that may be on your hands.
  • Maintain at least 1 metre (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
    Why? When someone coughs or sneezes they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain the virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the Coronavirus(COVID-19) if the person coughing has the disease.
  • Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.
    Why? Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.
  • Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately.
    Why? Droplets spread the virus. By following good respiratory hygiene you protect the people around you from viruses such as cold, flu and COVID-19.
  • Stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention and call in advance. Follow the directions of your local health authority.
    Why? National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on the situation in your area. Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This will also protect you and help prevent the spread of viruses and other infections.
  • Stay informed on the latest developments about Coronavirus (COVID-19). Follow the advice given by your healthcare provider, your national and local public health authority or your employer on how to protect yourself and others from the Coronavirus.
    Why? National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on whether COVID-19 is spreading in your area. They are best placed to advise on what people in your area should be doing to protect themselves.

Now Let’s Talk about some Myths!

In the present era of technology, myths, rumours, false news, have become an indispensable part of our lives. It is extremely important that we know how what is wrong and what is right to safeguard ourselves and also to avoid spreading any false news.

Is it safe to receive a package from any area where COVID-19 has been reported?

Yes. The likelihood of an infected person contaminating commercial goods is low and the risk of catching the virus that causes COVID-19 from a package that has been moved, travelled, and exposed to different conditions and temperature is also low. 

Can an ultraviolet disinfection lamp kill the Coronavirus?

UV lamps should not be used to sterilize hands or other areas of skin as UV radiation can cause skin irritation.

Can spraying alcohol or chlorine all over your body kill the Coronavirus?

No. Spraying alcohol or chlorine all over your body will not kill viruses that have already entered your body. Spraying such substances can be harmful to clothes or mucous membranes (i.e. eyes, mouth). Be aware that both alcohol and chlorine can be useful to disinfect surfaces, but they need to be used under appropriate recommendations.

Can eating garlic help prevent infection with the new Coronavirus?

Garlic is a healthy food that may have some antimicrobial properties. However, there is no evidence from the current outbreak that eating garlic has protected people from the new coronavirus.

Coronavirus in Figures.

Coronavirus Cases: 85,679

Deaths: 2,933

Number of Countries affected: 60

Coronavirus Latest Updates (February 29 GMT):

AMERICA-

  • 3 new cases in the United States
  • 1 new case in Canada (Ontario)

ASIA-

  •  594 new cases and 1 death in South Korea.
  • 1 new case in Japan

Don’t forget to share the post.

Read more on the blog here.