https://candidmom-withlove.com With Love Wed, 06 Nov 2024 12:14:37 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.2 https://candidmom-withlove.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/cropped-logo-icon-32x32.jpeg Candid Mom https://candidmom-withlove.com 32 32 A Love Story, Etched in Time https://candidmom-withlove.com/a-love-story-etched-in-time/ Wed, 06 Nov 2024 11:34:18 +0000 https://candidmom-withlove.com/?p=645

A Love Story, Etched in Time

My sweetheart,

Appacha and Ammachi. The mere mention of their names sends a ripple of nostalgia through my heart. A love story, not of romance, but of a profound bond between parents and their children. A love story etched in time, a testament to the enduring power of family.

I miss the simple joys, the quiet moments. I long for the warmth of their hands, the gentle touch that could soothe any worry. I miss the feeling of being lifted off the ground, a sensation that made me believe I could fly, that I could conquer the world.

I miss the endless conversations with Appacha, pouring out my heart, sharing my dreams, my fears, and my hopes. He’d listen intently, his eyes filled with love and understanding. And Ammachi, always there, a beacon of love and care. She’d fuss over us, ensuring we were well-fed and happy. Her laughter, a melodious tune that filled our home with joy.

I miss the family walks to church, the gentle rhythm of our footsteps, the shared silence, and the occasional burst of my brother’s laughter. I miss the quiet dinners, the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals. No fussy eaters in our family, we ate what was served, grateful for the food on our plates.

I miss the scoldings, the reprimands. They were tough, but fair. They shaped us, molded us into the people we are today. They taught us the value of hard work, honesty, and respect.

As we navigate our own lives, my brother and I often find ourselves missing them terribly. We miss their guidance, their love, their unwavering support. But we know they are always with us, watching over us like guardian angels.

In the quiet moments, when the world fades away, I often find myself longing for simpler times. I wish I could spend more time on the terrace, gazing at the stars, sharing stories with Appacha. I wish I could lay on Ammachi’s lap, feeling her gentle touch, her soothing words.

Being orphaned is a pain that never truly fades. It’s a void that can’t be filled. Yet, we carry on, grateful for the love and lessons they bestowed upon us. They made us who we are, and for that, we are eternally grateful.

We love you, Appacha and Ammachi.

]]> Moringa – The Super Food https://candidmom-withlove.com/moringa-the-super-food/ Tue, 05 Nov 2024 11:06:59 +0000 https://candidmom-withlove.com/?p=627

Moringa – The Super Food

My young lady,

Conversations with loved ones often lead to unexpected insights, and recently, my husband Prakash and I shared a fascinating one about moringa – the “miracle tree” that has been a part of our diets since childhood but is now gaining recognition as a global superfood.

A Natural Boost for Our Aging Pup

It all started when Prakash voiced his concern about our aging dog, Archie, who seemed to be slowing down, much like Teddy, our neighbor’s dog, who had recently lost some sight and hearing. “I’m considering some natural remedies like carbo veg and maybe a bit of rescue remedy,” he said.

That’s when I remembered a pet parent’s video that recommended a pinch of moringa powder as a nutrient boost. “Try a pinch of moringa,” I suggested. “It’s loaded with nutrients. And you might still have those moringa pills from India Organic, right?”

The next day, Prakash was thrilled to report the change. “It worked!” he said excitedly. “Archie’s so much more active – running, playing, and lunging for treats as if he’s back to his puppy days.”

Back to Our Roots: Moringa Memories

Our conversation took us down memory lane, to the days when almost every home in Jayanagar had a moringa tree. “My mom made the best moringa sambhar,” Prakash reminisced. “And that dal with moringa leaves – the slight bitterness tasted amazing with rice and ghee.”

I could almost taste it myself. “Yes! And the moringa leaves roast with onions and garlic – mixed with rice and ghee, it was perfection.” Moringa wasn’t just a side dish in our childhood; it was a staple full of nutrients, family tradition, and wellness.

Moringa: Nature’s Nutritional Powerhouse

As we reflected, we realized how rich moringa truly is in nutrients. Studies show it’s packed with protein, vitamins A, B, and C, plus essential minerals like calcium, potassium, and iron. This makes it especially beneficial for children, pregnant and nursing mothers, and anyone looking to improve their health naturally.

“Moringa is known to help regulate blood pressure, soothe ulcers, and fight bacteria,” Prakash added. “It’s a healing powerhouse: good for digestion, urinary health, and immunity.”

My grandmother used moringa as a remedy for almost everything – if she felt under the weather, she’d chew a dried moringa seed. “It’s even great for fever,” I recalled, thinking back to how she cared for us as children.

Cultural Significance and Shared Traditions

Moringa also holds a special place in Tamil culture, where it’s even considered an aphrodisiac due to its high Vitamin K content. “Remember those old Tamil movies?” Prakash laughed. “They always had jokes about drumsticks.”

We laughed, remembering family trips to the theater, the innocent fun, and the nostalgia. After we married, we kept the tradition alive, introducing moringa to friends and family, sharing recipes and memories. Prakash’s mom would prepare drumsticks with salt, chili powder, turmeric, and roast them with onions in coconut oil – a dish I still crave.

A Modern-Day Superfood

Today, moringa is recognized globally as a superfood, celebrated for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to boost energy and aid with weight management. In our fast-paced world, it’s an ideal natural option, especially for younger people dealing with inflammation, fatigue, or weight issues. Rather than relying solely on synthetic supplements, incorporating moringa brings us back to the natural wellness our ancestors understood so well.

Global Reach and Demand for Moringa

Now, moringa has a global reach, with countries like Germany among its largest importers. “You can find it on Amazon.de,” Prakash reminded me. “It’s perfect for the winter here – boosts metabolism and keeps immunity strong.”

We ended our conversation with plans for more moringa dishes. “Mom made a side dish with moringa flowers and coconut,” I recalled. “And did you know that Bengalis make fried snacks with moringa flowers? We should try it sometime.”

A Lasting Legacy of Health

Moringa is more than just a plant; it’s a heritage food that has nourished generations, connecting us to our roots while offering incredible health benefits. Whether it’s boosting the energy of a beloved pet or enriching a family meal, moringa’s legacy as a superfood proves it’s here to stay.

So next time you see moringa powder or fresh leaves, remember – it’s not just a trend, but a time-tested treasure that has been quietly nurturing lives for centuries

]]> Tired Of Salads Being A Snoozefest? https://candidmom-withlove.com/tired-of-salads-being-a-snoozefest/ Tue, 24 Sep 2024 06:58:47 +0000 https://candidmom-withlove.com/?p=357

Tired Of Salads Being A Snoozefest?

My sweet child,

Who says salads have to be boring? Let’s shake things up and trust me, a delicious salad can be a game-changer. With the right ingredients and a little creativity, you’ll be reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds).

Here’s my secret: Think of a salad as a canvas. Start with a base of colorful veggies, add some protein for staying power, drizzle on a healthy fat for flavor, and top it off with a sprinkle of carbs. And if you’re craving something sweet, a piece of fruit is the perfect finishing touch.

Give these tips a try, and you’ll be surprised at how much your body (and taste buds) will thank you!

Tips for Delicious and Healthy Salads

Base Your Salad on Leafy Greens

Start with a base of leafy greens like spinach, romaine lettuce, or kale for a fiber-rich foundation.
Kale or rocket salad for us can cause a bit of additional bile production, so have plenty of fluids with it

Add Colorful Vegetables

Incorporate colorful vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, tomatoes, red cabbages, and bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.

Create a Flavorful Dressing

Experiment with different dressing combinations using ingredients like mint, coriander, chili, honey, and vinegar to elevate your salad.

Prepare Vegetables Properly

Soak onions and cucumbers in cold water to remove excess bitterness.

Add Protein and Fat

For a more satisfying salad, include protein sources like grilled chicken , steamed fish, or chickpeas and healthy fats like avocado or nuts.

Enjoy a Simple Salad

Sometimes the simplest salads are the best. Try a combination of cucumbers, mint, and thick Greek yogurt with a pinch of salt and pepper for a refreshing snack.

Avoid Mixing Fruits and Vegetables

While it’s possible to combine fruits and vegetables, it’s generally best to eat them separately for optimal digestion.

Be Cautious with Raw Salads

Unless you’re confident in the quality of the ingredients, it’s best to avoid raw salads from outside sources

]]> The Magic of Dinacharya https://candidmom-withlove.com/the-magic-of-dinacharya/ Mon, 23 Sep 2024 05:40:13 +0000 https://candidmom-withlove.com/?p=340

The Magic of Dinacharya

Dear Sweet Child, Let’s talk about starting your day the right way. You know, that whole “rise and shine” thing?

In today’s crazy world, it can be tough to feel grounded and balanced. Between screens, noise, and constant hustle, days can feel like a blur.

Instead of reaching for quick fixes like caffeine or pills, why not try something a little more holistic?

Dinacharya, a traditional Indian practice from Ayurveda, is all about creating a daily routine that helps you feel good physically, mentally, socially, and spiritually.

The cool thing about Dinacharya is that it’s made up of simple stuff you can easily do every day. You might even be doing some of it already!

So, let’s dive in and see how Dinacharya can help you feel more energized, focused, and happy

The Pillars of Dinacharya :

Waking and Sleeping at Regular Times: Remember Robin Sharma’s “5 AM Club”? Dinacharya emphasizes the importance of a consistent sleep-wake cycle for optimal energy and focus.
Daily Exercise and Yoga: It’s not about a gym membership or a fad diet, but about incorporating movement and mindful practices like yoga into your daily routine.
Personal Hygiene Routines: This includes brushing your teeth, self-massage (abhyanga), and regular bathing – all essential for physical and mental well-being.
Healthy Eating Habits: Eat fresh, whole foods on time, and avoid processed meals and excessive snacking. Your grandmother’s advice about avoiding fridge food might hold some truth!
Meditation and Mindfulness Practices: Start your day with a moment of gratitude or intention setting. Practice mindful breathing exercises, focusing on letting go of stress. Breathe in – I’ll do my best: Breathe out – I let go of the rest

Dinacharya: Your Daily Guide to Success

Life can be a wild ride. From caring for loved ones to navigating work stress and personal challenges, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But I’ve learned that having a daily routine can help you stay grounded and resilient.

I’ve noticed that successful people often have a set of habits they follow every day. Whether it’s meditation, yoga, or a healthy breakfast, these routines can help you feel more balanced and focused.

Remember, it’s okay to start small. Even simple things like brushing your teeth and drinking a glass of water can make a big difference. The goal is to gradually build a daily routine that helps you feel your best.

Dinacharya isn’t about being perfect. It’s about making progress and taking control of your life. By prioritizing your well-being, you’ll be better equipped to handle whatever comes your way.

Are you ready to give Dinacharya a try?

]]>