Gratitude Practice 365 - Reflection

Today I am grateful for ending and writing another month with the momentum of gratitude practice 365 series of blogs. Gratitude practice 365 series I have been penning and composing since January 1, 2021, since then without missing a single day or delaying, the blog has been uploaded on the page. Now September is finished with this blog. Although I had completed training titled "Screening, Brief Intervention and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT)" offered by CAMH. I wanted and craved to write my gratitude blog on my professional upgrading and development but today is the last day of the month of September and I needed to reflect on my unstoppable journey. Today I appreciate and acknowledge the significance of the gratitude practice 365 blog series for various reasons, for instance:

• The energy and the impulse of gratitude practice 365 are still approaching their purpose and objectives to create 365 blogs from January 1, 2021, till December 31, 2021. Every day I come up with a new thought for gratefulness and acknowledgement 

• I am hooked on this blog series as it gives me a sense of achievement and accomplishment every day and that element to be very honest a source of motivation for me

• The most significant blogs of this month were thank you note, chat papri, balcony gardening, karahi boyz, lunch box, chicken and flemo farm. This month I developed professionally by having a variety of webinars, training and sessions and I am really grateful for these opportunities

• This is my journey of the blog series titled "Gratitude Practice 365". Find something creative and inventive to bring life into life is the thought of the day

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Navigating a Life in Recovery

Today I am grateful for attending a two-hour webinar titled "Navigating a life in recovery" offered by Edgewood Health Network (EHN) Canada. Today's webinar had two segments, the first hour facilitated by Colette Currin (counsellor and national director of business development for military, veterans and first responders, EHN Canada) and the second hour facilitated by EHN Canada Alumni Panel. I appreciate and recognize today's webinar significance for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• EHN Canada truly spreading mental health awareness and wellbeing in the community at this time of the COVID 19. I am hooked with these webinars due to the ongoing learning and upgrading myself in the field of addiction and mental health. These webinars heighten my understanding and further clarity to my perspectives and learned theories

• These webinars are highly convenient to join as it was offered via zoom platform. No need to drive or take TTC, no need to formally dress up, just require to have an internet connection for the flow of the session

• The first session was about setting up healthy boundaries and building supportive relationships in recovery. The session was highly insightful and  left the impression of the significance of the healthy and positive boundaries setting

• The second session was facilitated by the EHN Canada alumni panel. Their journey of recovery was really inspiring and thoughtful. Their stories were encouraging and promote awareness and insight to the attendees

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Manage Anxiety

 

Today I am grateful for and comprehend the Facebook live session at Malton Bazm-E-Khawateen platform titled "Anxiety disorders, causes and management". Today's session was hosted by Gulnaz Rehan, coordinated by Aasia Khatoon and facilitated by Arshi Ali (Registered Psychotherapist Qualifying). I appreciate and acknowledge today's session for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• I acknowledge and am thankful to the Malton Bazm-E-Khawateen platform for spreading awareness regarding mental health and well-being. This platform is the woman only floor

• I recognize and appreciate Gulnaz Rehan efforts in hosting these sessions, making flayers and promoting Facebook live sessions in a variety of networks

• Today's session was part # 2 and mainly focused on strategies and management of anxiety inclinations and disorders

• Strategies for managing anxiety, for instance:

• Benefits of deep breathing and 4 deep breathing exercises such as 

• Wim Hof breathing exercise

• 478 deep breathing 

• Square breathing

• Straw breathing

• 54321 grounding technique

• Emotional Diet

• Affirmations for anxiety

• Rubber band technique

• Pressure points 

• Mindfulness

• Medication

• Psychotherapies such as 

• DBT

• CBT

• Trauma-Informed care

• It was mentioned that don't be shy for availing of mental health services if noticed any symptoms of anxiety, immediately connect to the family doctor, psychiatrist and psychotherapist

• This is my journey with Malton Bazm-E-Khawateen for spreading the awareness of mental health and wellbeing

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Thank you note

 

Today I am grateful for being aware of the significance of writing thank you note. Thank you note is NOT just a formality, however, it is a way of appreciating and acknowledging someone's presence, efforts and contribution to your life. I wrote this thank you note to all moms who allowed their daughters to attend my daughter's birthday and made her day very special and memorable. Thank you note are really important, no one can deny their value. I appreciate and recognize its worth for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• Thank you note is remarkably special and a way to acknowledge and endorsing someone's presence and appearance in our life. Thank you note helps to strengthen a relationship, connection and bond in a positive and healthy way. Thank you note can be written, such as:

• A thank you note can be written for a husband/wife/life partner to appreciate their presence in life. In this note, it might be mentioned that their presence is so precious, their contribution is beyond explanation and their support is untiring. This thank you note you can put in a lunch box or post to the office address or email or make a special card or text 

• A thank you note for children. Parents can compose a thank you note for their children and let them know about their presence in your life. You may mention their positive behaviour, attitude and character. This note may impact them positively

• Thank you note can be written to an employee, employer, neighbours, friends, family members, neighbours, MP, teacher or anyone who is part of your life. This thank you note may undoubtedly impact their thought, feelings and emotions

• This is my journey and understanding regarding thank you note. Try writing some thank you note to family, friends and people around you and see the magic

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

International daughter's day

Today I am grateful for and appreciate the significance of a daughter in my life. Daughters are a real blessing. Today international daughter's day is being celebrated and honoured around the world. International daughter's day is being observed on the fourth Sunday of the month of September to appreciate their love and presence in our life. I recognize and comprehend their presence for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• I am blessed with a daughter, named Ayesha. She is my last born. Ayesha is my lifeline and always surrounds me. I recognized and appreciate her presence

• International daughter's day is honoured and acknowledged to show respect and appreciate their presence

• Daughters always care about their parents, siblings and family. Love is the foremost aspect and feature of a daughter. They have a special heart 💖 and energy for their family

• My daughter is always ready to help me with a variety of chores, such as cleaning, gardening, dusting, mopping and sometimes dishes

• I am comfortable with my daughter, maybe due to the same gender we are in. Ayesha is highly engaging with me with a variety of activities such as painting, recycling, sketching, doodling, baking and always talking with a caring attitude

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Chat papri - A real blessing

 

Today I am grateful for the chat papri - a real blessing to the taste buds and a strong kick to the palate. Chat papri is really common in Asian culture more specifically Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. Its taste varies from culture to culture and region to region. I appreciate and acknowledge its significance for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• I do prefer to make fresh chat papri at home with homemade spices without any artificial flavour. Chat papri has a variety of steps to prepare a genuine taste such as sweet dahi bare, prepare masala chole, fried papri, sweet tamarind sauce, cut some fresh onion, coriander, green chillies and tomatoes

• Then assemble all prepared stuff in a bowl such as add some sweet dahi bare then add masala chole, coriander, tomatoes, onion, green chillies, crush papri, sweet tamarind sauce and sprinkle some fresh chat masala. Do not mix while eating a chat papri (This is the secret for eating chat papri). This bowl of chat papri is remarkably delicious, aromatic and full of flavours

• Chat papri has a very strong knock on the taste buds and a sharp punch to the palate. It is extremely satisfying and gratifying to human emotions. Personally, I noticed that I am hooked and addicted to this chat papri and its flavour. Chat papri has the flavour or taste that will renew and restore depleted energy. Sometimes chat papri is an instant charger

• You may find a variety of vendors for selling chat papri back home near schools, hospitals, bazaars, markets, colleges, universities and even in community 

• Chat papri is a must item in a variety of occasions such as birthday parties, afternoon tea, weekend side item, dinners, parties, potluck and welcomes

• This is my journey and perspective about chat papri, what is yours? is the question of the day

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Mandala art or colour therapy

Today I am grateful for and appreciate the importance of mandala art or colour therapy. Mandala art is nowadays very common as an art therapy tool for children, adults and seniors. Personally, I do it in my free time to soothes my own emotions and thoughts. I recognize and comprehend its significance for a variety of reasons, such as:

• Mandala designs and booklet are promptly and surely available, even you may find at dollarama, dollar tree, amazon or google the designs. It appears with a variety of printed designs and patterns. It is surprisingly easy to start colouring the patterns

• Mandala art or colour therapy is a relaxing, soothing and calming activity. It positively impacts emotions and feelings. While colouring I sensed and noticed the sense of satisfaction and fulfillment

• Mandala art promotes eye and hand coordination as you have to look at the patterns and colour by holding a marker/pencil in your fingers. It further heightens and strengthens the fine motor skills and later in life these skills support to achieve a lot in life 

• Mandala art is a way to express your emotions while playing with the colours, patterns and a variety of related perspectives. While colouring, it promotes peace of mind and comforts the mind and body

• A variety of situations and gatherings offers mandala art competitions, art and craft such as festivals, wellness sessions, fun gallas, funfair and art classes. This is my journey with mandala art, find something that soothes your emotions and bring harmony to the mind and body is the thought of the day 

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Fundamentals of Gambling and Gaming

 

Today I am grateful for and appreciate the significance of the coursework/module titled "Fundamentals of Gambling and Gaming" is completed. This course was developed by Provincial System Support Program (PSSP) at CAMH and it is supported by funding from the ministry of health. I am pleased with this wonderful opportunity. I acknowledge and comprehend its importance for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• This module was online and easy to access, with no need to formally dress up and no need to drive or take TTC. It was an amazing way to upgrade and professionally develop myself while maintaining social distancing for controlling the spread of novel coronavirus

• If I dig it further, today's learning helped broaden my understanding of the fundamentals of gambling and gaming. Now I can understand various perspectives related to the subject

• The fundamentals of gambling and gaming course offer 3 modules such as 

• Fundamentals of gambling and problem gambling

• Fundamentals of gaming and problem gaming

• Screening, assessment and treatment

• This course was highly engaging and appealing with a variety of purposeful activities such as quizzes, videos, clips, QA, reflection, true and false and many more

• This is my learning and professional journey with CAMH, try to find some courses, webinars and training that suits your professional, personal and social needs, is the thought of the day

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Potatoes

Today I am grateful for this amazing vegetable called potato. It is harvested and grown in almost all-region and zone. Potatoes are popular and consumed regardless of socioeconomic status, gender, age and region in the world. I appreciate and recognize its significance for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• Potatoes appear in a variety of dimensions, tones, textures and tastes. You may come across yellow, white, red, green and brown potatoes. Organic and regular potatoes are available in the local market

• Potatoes are within the reach of everyone regardless of their socioeconomic status. It is not expensive to produce. Potatoes have this beauty to adjust with a variety of spices and other edible produce

• Chips and french fries are the most consumable product of potatoes around the globe regardless of age and gender. Everyone loves fries and chips with mayo or ketchup or sauce or dip and sometimes with added chat masala

• Potatoes have a variety of expressions and it goes very well with a variety of cuisines such as Aloo gosht, aloo qeema, cutlets, kebab, mash potato, vegies, pakora, samosa, tehari, potato omelet, chana chat, salad, paratha, Sindhi biryani is incomplete without potatoes

• Potatoes have a good companion with a variety of vegetables such as spinach, chickpeas, peas, okra, Brinjal, methi, onion and tomatoes

• Potatoes can be cooked and prepared in a variety of styles and ways such as baked, roast, deep-fried, stir-fried, steamed, BBQ, boiled, grilled, sauteed, pan-fried and stewed. The most important aspect is that every single style of preparation has a distinct aroma, taste and flavour

• This is my journey and taste of potatoes. What is yours? is the question of the day

If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to ask or comment below

Anxiety and its management

 

Today I am grateful for and appreciate the live-on Facebook session titled "Anxiety disorders, causes and its management" at Malton Bazm-E-Khawateen page. Today's session was hosted by Gulnaz Rehan, coordinated by Aasia Khatoon and facilitated by Arshi Ali (Registered Psychotherapist). Today's session was the most demanded session by the community as the anxiety increased during COVID. I recognize and comprehend its significance for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• Malton Bazm-E-Khawateen is surprisingly spreading the awareness of mental health and wellbeing in the community. These sessions are at the virtual mode via Facebook live-on, easy to join from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh and the Canadian community

• These sessions are free of cost for the community, it is a huge relief for the attendees at this time of the COVID 19. These types of customized sessions are costly and would have been hard for many women to join

• Today's session highlighted the understanding of anxiety and its various expressions. Today's understanding is:

• Anxiety definition in reference to DSM 5

• Iceberg of anxiety and next stage 

• Causes of anxiety 

• Anxiety disorders and their types and symptoms

• Phobias 

• Social anxiety 

• Panic attack

• Generalized anxiety disorder

• Obsessive-Compulsive disorder

• Separation anxiety disorder

• Topic to be continued to the next session

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Balcony gardening

 

Today I am grateful for and appreciate the significance of balcony gardening and its impact on thought, feelings and emotions. My daughter planted a variety of seeds in the month of May in a variety of pots and the most significant aspect is that no seeds were bought, all from the kitchen and fridge. Balcony gardening is an amazing hobby for my 11 years old daughter. I recognize and comprehend balcony gardening for a variety of reasons such as:

• My daughter grew methi, melon, watermelon, 53 tomatoes plants, green/yellow/red chard, kale, mint, coriander, green chillies and beans. Nowadays we have chard and tomatoes harvest every day, it is delicious and organic

• Balcony gardening involves a variety of cognitive functioning such as assessment, planning, preparation and outlining a balcony for gardening purposes

• It also teaches and develops perseverance, determination and persistence as all the plants grow from seeds and take time. I noticed that with the plant, their happiness and satisfaction multiply

• Balcony gardening positively affects thoughts, feelings and emotions. Whenever a new bulb or flower or fruit appears, I could sense the pleasure, joy and excitement on my daughter's face

• Balcony gardening supports and heightens eye and hand coordination, fine and gross motor skills. It promotes focus and concentration

• Try to focus and pay attention to building positive, healthy and amazing hobbies. It is positively linked with the variety of functioning in the real-life

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Spray Bottle

 

Today I am grateful for and comprehend the importance of a spray bottle. The spray bottle is a day-to-day essential for everyone. Today I appreciate and acknowledge its significance for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• The spray bottle is a blessing in a variety of contexts, however, it depends on its usage and utility. A spray bottle appears in a variety of tones, dimensions and characters. The best one is transparent as it is visible what's inside

• A barber uses a spray bottle to spray water on the hairs of the clients and do hair styling. It helps the barber to earn his bread

• A housewife utilized a spray bottle for a variety of purposes such as 

• Fill a spray bottle with oil to grease pans and pots for cooking and baking purposes

• A spray bottle is loaded with the washing chemicals to clean baths and washrooms

• A spray bottle is packed with the pesticide for spraying on the plants, leaves and pots

• A spray bottle is filled with the water and sprays on clothes for ironing and sometimes to spray on indoor plants leaves

• A spray bottle is loaded with vinegar and baking soda for deep cleaning of kitchen wall, stove, oven and cabinets door

• A horticulturist/gardener/landscaper utilizes a spray bottle for cleaning leaves and spraying a medicine for treating plants

• A mechanic uses a spray bottle for spraying oil/chemicals to the machines and spare parts for cleaning purposes

• The spray bottle is a required article for every household and other areas of life. This is my understanding and journey with a spray bottle, what is yours is the thought of the day

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

8 Fingers and 2 Thumbs

Today I am grateful for having 8 fingers and 2 thumbs, dynamic and operative. Fingers and thumbs are blessings and a variety of chores and quality of life depends on it. I recognize and appreciate 8 fingers and 2 thumbs significance for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• People do perform a variety of day-to-day tasks with 8 fingers and 2 thumbs. It supports and assists to hold, catch, touch, operate, grab and petting anything with  8 fingers and 2 thumbs

• You may ask the significance of 8 fingers and 2 thumbs with people who have arthritis, inflammation in joints, tremors or plaster on the fingers/thumbs or amputated hand for any reason. It is truly hard for them to be fully functional 

• 8 fingers and 2 thumbs are really vital for cooking, cutting, laundry, ironing, cleaning, bathing, personal hygiene, drinking and eating. Hands really support and promote these day to day task

• If moderate functionality is explored such as operating elevator, driving a car, truck or riding a bike, stitching, hair styling, changing clothes and all other relative activities depends on 8 fingers and 2 thumbs

• A higher level of operations depends on 8 fingers and 2 thumbs, for example, touch typing, writing, painting, colouring, sketching, working in the office and even executive functioning

• The process for deep cleaning of 8 fingers and 2 thumbs is called manicure. Women usually wear rings and apply henna for beautifying fingers and thumbs. Young children hold fingers of their parents while walking around for safety and security. In a variety of cultures, people do shake their hands for greeting purposes. Showing thumb or fingers has distinct meanings in a variety of cultures. Every finger has a different meaning and it depends on the values and customs of the society

• 8 fingers and 2 thumbs are blessing for everyone as our quality of life depends on it. Keep acknowledging and appreciating the value of 8 fingers and 2 thumbs is the thought of the day

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Journey of an empowered woman - Arifa Muzaffar

 

Supporting the mental health of older adults in care

 

Today I am thankful for and comprehend the significance of the coursework/module titled "Supporting the mental health of older adults in care" is completed. This curriculum was developed by Provincial System Support Program (PSSP) at CAMH and it is supported by funding from the ministry of health. I am grateful for this wonderful opportunity. I recognize and grasp its meaning for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• This curriculum was online and comfortable to join. No need to travel or take the subway.  This mode certainly helps to control the spread of novel coronavirus. I upgraded my professional journey while maintaining social distance

• The module was highly engaging and appealing with a variety of activities, such as quizzes, case scenarios, assessments, reflection, text, definitions and tool kits for a variety of doctrines and it was with a download facility

• Supporting the mental health of older adults in the care module helps to understand and explore the further lawyers on the given subject. The taken insight and notion from the module is:

• The difference between mental health and mental illness

• Dementia, depression, anxiety and substance use problems and concerns

• Immigration connection and cultural perspective were utilized to assess the philosophy

• This is my professional journey with the CAMH, find a course/training/module or webinar that suits your professional, social and personal needs is the thought of the day

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Workplace Mental Health in the "New Normal"

 

Today I am grateful for and comprehend the significance of the webinar titled "Workplace mental health in the new normal" offered by EHN Canada, hosted by Suanne wong and facilitated by an industry panel, guest speaker and EHN Canada leadership. Time slots were allotted for each session. I recognize and appreciate today's webinar for a variety of reasons, such as:

• Since the pandemic, every webinar, lectures and session including today's were over the zoom. Highly convenient and comfortable to join. No need to drive or take the subway. It was just one click away. It's worth mentioning here as this approach helps to manage and control the spread of novel coronavirus at this time of the pandemic

• EHN Canada truly spreading mental health awareness in the Canadian community. While attending these webinars actually promotes profound understanding and insight on the given subject. These webinars further heighten and broaden the knowledge. These webinars are a great support to the mental health professionals at this time of the COVID 19

• The taken insight and notions from today's webinar are:

• Industry Panel: Exploring Trends in Workplace Mental Health (55 min): 

• This session was with Roaslie Croteau (Senior Consultant, Health and Productivity, HUB International), Dave Philips (Chief Mental Health Officer, TeksMed Services Inc) and Dr. Georgia Pomaki (National Leader of Mental Health Specialists; Wellness, Disability & Life, Manulife)

• The discussion mainly focused on exploring trends in workplace mental health such as

• Statistics were shared such as Anxiety is 5 times higher and some evidence for depression were found

• The role of peer support and the approach has to include diversity, inclusion and equity

• The obstacle has to address immediately for addressing mental health concerns

• Sometimes benefits and services are not covered to get the right support

• The holistic approach is the best and focuses on the preventive side were the main focus of the discussion

• Guest Speaker: Implementing an Effective Workplace Mental Health Program (55 min): 

• This session was facilitated by Liz Horvath and spoke about implementing highly effective and useful workplace mental health programs such as conversation guide, access to virtual tools, community resources and training for addressing mental health and wellbeing

• EHN Canada Leadership: Reshaping Mental Health and Addiction Treatment (55 min):

• This session was facilitated by Joe Manget (Chief Executive Officer, EHN Canada) and Catherine Rice (Senior Director of Business Development, EHN Canada). The taken words and insight from the session are:

• EHN Canada offers a variety of treatment services across Canada. EHN Canada mainly focused on quality care, best practices and an evidence-based approach. Focus not only on betterment/recovery but focus on back to the normal life journey

• This is my professional and upgrading journey with EHN Canada. Find training, webinars and sessions that soothes your professional, social and personal need is the thought of the day

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Aging and Mental Health - A primer on health equity, diversity and anti - racism

 

Today I am grateful for and appreciate the significance of the coursework/module titled "Aging and mental health - A primer on health equity, diversity and anti-racism" is completed. This course was developed by Provincial System Support Program (PSSP) at CAMH and it is supported by funding from the ministry of health. I am thankful for this excellent opportunity. I recognize and comprehend its importance for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• Ageing and mental health - A primer on health equity, diversity and anti-racism module/course was online, highly convenient and comfortably joined. No need to travel or formally dressed up or take TTC

• This course was highly engaging with a variety of learning opportunities such as quizzes, videos, reflection, true and false, questionnaires, pre and post-assessment and formal knowledge and information on the given subject

• This module helped to broaden my knowledge and insight on a given subject. It promoted further enhancement and understanding issues and concerns regarding ageing and mental health

• I am genuinely thankful for this amazing opportunity to learn and understand ageing and mental health

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Forgetfulness and Dementia - Part # 2

 

Today I am grateful for and appreciate the significance of a Live on a Facebook session titled "Forgetfulness and Dementia" at Malton Bazm-E-Khawateen page. The session was hosted by Gulnaz Rehan, coordinated by Aasia Khatoon and facilitated by Arshi Ali (me). Malton Bazm-E-Khawateen has been serving the community in a variety of ways and mental health is one of the faces. I am glad to be part of the forum. I recognize and comprehend the value of today's session for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• A Facebook live session is always virtual and convenient to join from everywhere. No need to formally dress up, drive or take TTC. You just need to monitor the internet connection for the flow of the session

• Today's session helped to spread awareness regarding dementia and other mental health concerns not only in the Canadian community, however, people also join from Pakistan and India 

• The taken insight and notion from today's session is:

• Today was part two of the same topic and the session commenced with the review of the previous session such as the definition of dementia, types and warning sign of dementia

• Risk factors of dementia were discussed in detail such as heart problems, obesity, depression, air pollution, alcohol, smoking, sleep, high blood pressure, gender, heredity, age and diabetes

• Diagnosis and assessment of dementia

• Prevention of dementia such as care of heart, mental health, sleep well, eat healthy food, be social, challenge  your brain, protect your head and be physical

If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

What's in your cup?

Today I am grateful for being aware of the significance of the "What's in your cup" doctrine or notion. What's in your cup ideology deals with a variety of concepts such as if you have water, you can only offer water to yourself and others. Likewise, whatever you have in your cup, you can offer that to anyone including you. I appreciate and recognize the importance of the "what's in your cup" notion for a variety of reasons, for instance: 

• What's in your cup? deals with the assumption, if you have juice, smoothie, milk or any fluid, you may offer that to yourself and others. Sometimes the cup is empty and you have nothing to offer

• What's in your cup? changes situation to situation and person to person. It also depends on your physical and mental health. For instance, I met with the boss in a different mode than with the friends so the cup filled with the distinct stuff every time

• Likewise "What's in your cup" notion deals with what kind of emotions, thoughts and feelings you are with and you can only offer and deal with that emotions, thoughts and feelings that's in your cup

• Whenever a critical situation appears or happens, a person can offer only the stuff that is in his/her cup. While understanding and analyzing someone's with their gestures, behaviour and state of mind and to know what's in the cup at that moment

• If you are aware of what's in your cup notion and dealing with some issues such as relationship difficulties, mood problems or anxiety. You can easily refill your cup with a variety of strategies such as deep breathing, positive self-affirmations, yoga, meditation, journaling and exercise

• You may off and on check what's in your cup? such as journaling, reflection and realization are the strategies that help to know about what's in your cup?

• Being aware of the significance of what's in your cup? is the real blessing and I am thankful for the awareness. Sometimes people do not aware of what's in their cup and what are they offering to others? Awareness itself is a blessing

If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Karahi Boys

Today I am grateful for and appreciate the lunch that is offered by Faham for celebrating his new car at Karahi Boys. Karahi boys restaurant is located at 1921 Lawrance Ave East, Scarborough, although it offers branches in GTA such as Mississauga, Toronto and Ajax. Karahi boys restaurant is a halal Pakistani eatery and offered a variety of cuisines. I recognize and comprehend its significance for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• Karahi boys' restaurant is inviting by its appearances. The ambience and atmosphere were dark and well-lit. I admired the colour theme. Karahi boys offer catering, dine-in, takeout and delivery convenience with the COVID 19 protocols

• As I mentioned that karahi boys is a halal Pakistani restaurant and offers a variety of Karahi options, BBQ, starters, rice, kebab, nan, kids menu, drinks and mocktails, salad/raita and whole lamb and goat 

• We ordered boneless chicken karahi, Behari boti platter, chicken strips with fries, Aashik beef seekh kebab, butter and plain nan, raita, mango lassi and sweet lassi

• The food was remarkably mouth-watering, aromatic, delicious and had a strong kick to the taste buds and notably satisfying to the palate. The most significant aspect is that the recipes were authentic as I could sense and grasp the taste in my mouth

• The service was quick as the waiting time was 10 to 20 minutes. It was well served by the hosts. Even when asked about extra nan, it was quickly delivered. After finishing the meal, the table was cleaned and wiped immediately. I recognized that the customer services were excellent and met human needs. It seemed that staff was well trained and skilled

• The washroom was extremely neat and clean with properly lit and with facilities. We are planning to visit Karahi boys again due to the hospitality and authentic taste of the food

If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Lunch Box

Today I am grateful for the importance of the lunch box and its impact on overall physical and emotional health. The content of the lunch box is significantly linked with physical and mental well-being. The lunch box plays a vital role in a student and a professional life. I appreciate and recognize its significance for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• Since childhood, a lunch box is a part of life and has a distinct meaning for everyone. I personally used to take money to school and bought from the canteen but nowadays lunch boxes are the basic necessity. Here in Canada, lunch box from home is the tradition as Sk, Jk and junior high school do not have a canteen option

• A homemade lunch box with fresh and delicious food is the prime target for every parent and caregiver. While preparing a lunch box, a parent or a caregiver keep in mind the healthy choices and preferences of their beloved ones

• The lunch box is a real treasure for children at lunch break while they are hungry and exhausted. They really need something to help them to renew, recharge and restore their depleted energy. Personally, I do add fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables along with the main course such as pulao or biryani or pasta or noodles or sandwiches or burgers or Behari paratha roll. Sometimes I do add a boiled egg

• If I am preparing my own lunch box, I do add fresh and seasonal vegetables (salad a must item) fruits and a boiled egg or chicken. I don't carry paratha, chapati, rice, sandwiches or burgers as my work place incorporate all day sitting arrangements

• Sometimes I do write a small note to my children for acknowledging their presence, love and support in my life and keep it in their lunch boxes. When they find it while having their lunch, it gives them a sense of belongingness and connectedness with their mom

• A lunch box is always prepared and served with love, affection and with intense feelings and a child can surely sense that emotion while eating that lunch. A lunch box is an unseen bond and a strong connection between a child and a parent or caregiver

• Stanely ka Dabba is an Indian movie that depicted, illustrated and explained the significance of a lunch box in a child's life. A must-watch movie with your child is highly recommended by my side. A child will learn that many children are struggling for having a lunch box, it gives them a sense of gratitude

• This is my journey with the lunch box, what is your connection with the lunch box? is the thought of the day

If you have any story regarding the lunch box, feel free to share in a comment box

University of Toronto - Faculty of dentistry

Today I am grateful for and appreciate the significance of the faculty of dentistry of the University of Toronto. Today morning, I had been at the oral surgery department for the booked appointment for extraction of one of my teeth. I had been there 5 minutes late for my appointment. I recognize and comprehend today's experience for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• The faculty of Dentistry of the University of Toronto department is located at 101 Elm Street, Toronto, Ontario (near St. Patrick subway). It is accessible to all clients. The fee is affordable and services are excellent

• Before extraction of my tooth, COVID and other health screening was done. A consent form was explained to me and then signed by me and their supervisor. Blood pressure and pulse rate were checked and monitor. Then the formal procedure was followed for extracting my tooth

• Both the final year students were prepared, equipped and corresponding very well. They were communicating all related information and confirmed my previous visit to the department. They explained, comprehend and described the procedure to me. It helped to release tension at the moment

• I am genuinely thankful for the organization and its ways of guiding clients to promote relaxation and comfort. Some clients may exhibit nervousness or tension however staff and students are trained to address the concerns and affairs very well

• The University of Toronto, faculty of dentistry offers a variety of treatment services, such as diagnosis, cleaning and filling service, children's dentistry, emergency services, dental implant, braces, gum diseases treatment, dentures and bridges, oral surgery, root canal and x-rays

• The faculty of Dentistry of the University of Toronto department is an exceedingly blessing to the community for providing a quality care

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

 

Today I am grateful for and appreciate the significance of a webinar titled "Let's talk about suicide, its causes and prevention" offered by Healing Hearts and facilitated by Dr. Arshi Ali (Registered Psychotherapist). Today's webinar encourages the attendees and listeners for spreading the word in the Pakistani community. I recognized and comprehend its value for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• Today's webinar was over the zoom, highly convenient to join from Pakistan and offer from Canada. No need to travel or drive, just need to monitor internet connectivity for the flow of the session

• The webinar was free of cost for the professionals and the general public at this time of the COVID 19 pandemic. It was a huge relief for the professionals and great support from Healing Hearts 

• Today's webinar promoted and encouraged awareness regarding suicide and its prevention. The taken notion and insight from the webinar:

• WHO definition of suicide 

• Some facts regarding suicide: WHO

• Biopsychosocial model for mental health

• Suicide warning signs

• Suicide prevention

• Strengthen economic support

• Access and delivery of suicide care

• Create protective environment

• Promote connectedness and belongingness

• Teaching coping and problem-solving skills

• Identify and support people at risk

• Protective factors

• References and Q & A session

• This is my incredible journey with the webinar. Find webinars and training sessions that address your personal, social and professional need is the thought of the day

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Chicken

Today I am grateful for and appreciate the significance of chicken and its tasty meat. Chicken is a form of white meat and is popular and frequently consumed regardless of age, gender, socioeconomic status and region around the globe. I comprehend and  recognize its value for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• Chicken is full of flavour and zest. Chicken appears in a variety of forms and qualities such as yellow chicken, white chicken, organic chicken, halal chicken regular and desi chicken. Every chicken has a distinct flavour and aroma

• The most interesting aspect of chicken is that every part of chicken has a unique flavouring and taste, for example, boneless, breast, thigh, with bone, leg pieces and wings

• The fast-food industry most of the time depends on chicken, such as KFC, McDonald, Wendy's, Subway and super chicken

• Chicken is simple and easy to prepare and digest. It is a great source of protein. It does not take much time to be tender. You may consume chicken in a variety of styles and forms such as steam, roast, BBQ, deep-fried, shallow fried and grilled

• Children love to eat chicken in the form of nuggets, boneless fried, chicken burgers, zinger, chicken pizza, chicken kabab and chicken braost

• A variety of cuisines are served and prepared with chicken, for instance, chicken biryani, pulao, karahi, chicken samosa, pakora, Saji, chargha, broast, tikka, red chicken, 360 chicken, pizza, haleem, nihari, qorma, malai boti, kebab, patties, nuggets, yakhni, soups, Chinese and Italian cuisines

• In Pakistan, people usually have chicken as a pet animal in villages and sometimes in urban areas. While buying chicken, be focused on authentic sellers and never compromise its quality

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Tomatoes

 

Today I am grateful for a bunch of tomatoes from the pot gardening on my balcony. My daughter has 53 tomatoes plants in a variety of pots and the produce is now ready to enjoy. Daily we have 5 to 10 tomatoes from our balcony. I appreciate and recognize the untiring efforts of my daughter for taking care of tomatoes plants since May 2021. I am blessed with the tomatoes from the balcony that are organic, fresh and juicy. I am thankful and acknowledge its significance for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, Potassium,  folate, lycopene and vitamin K. Tomatoes are remarkably beneficial for the health

• Tomatoes appear in a variety of dimensions, colours and tastes such as cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, Roma tomatoes, beefsteak tomatoes, vine tomatoes and tomatoes appears in yellow, green, red, orange and purple colour

• Tomatoes are used in a variety of compositions and modes such as salad, tomato soup, curries, pastes, diced and chopped. Tomatoes are varied in taste, for example, sweet, tangy, savoury and a bit of salty, however, a strong punch of flavour to the taste buds

• There are a variety of cuisines that's incomplete without tomatoes such as Sindhi biryani, Bombay biryani, chicken/mutton/beef karahi, mutton stew, a variety of Chinese cuisines, tomato soup, Hyderabadi tomato curry, mint and tomato chutney, potato tehari, a variety of vegetables are tasteless without tomatoes

• Nowadays, tomatoes are commercially available in cans in the form of paste, dice, roasted, steam and juice. People buy and use according to their convenience and need

• Tomatoes are mostly utilized in the form of tomato ketchup around the globe and are the utmost favourite and picked sauce regardless of age, gender, socioeconomic status and region in the world

• I witnessed and discover tomato-shaped earrings, rings, necklaces for teenagers, t-shirt/purses/sandals/slippers/bangles with the tomato logo on

• Tomato paste is really good for the skin to tighten the pores, remove sun tan and affect skin complexion

• Sometimes tomatoes are very expensive, even the middle class can not afford them, in preparing meals, people use tamarind paste or yogurt instead of tomatoes

• There is a tomato festival in Itlay every year, you may find details while googling the concept. This is my incredible journey with the tomatoes

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Labour Day

Today I am grateful for and comprehend the significance of labour day and it is being celebrated every year first Monday of the month of September. Today Labour day is being honoured and acknowledged in Canada. Labour day is the day to appreciate, recognize, be thankful, honour, comprehend and admire the efforts of labours/employees/workers/operatives in every walk of life. I recognize the labour day for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• Today is a labour day here in Canada and every labour and operative is off to recognizing their efforts and contributions to the Canadian economy

• However, some of the genuine heroes and operatives are not off today and never, such as police departments, emergency services, doctors, nurses, firefighters, ambulance operatives, TTC, airports, dispatching services and mothers (they are operatives 24/7 without salaries and recognition)

• Labour day is the day to designate the efforts and contributions of employees and recognize them. This day is also utilized to make policies, modifications of laws, systems to make workers more productive and fruitful

• The most interesting aspect of labour day is, its dates vary from country to country, such as, in Pakistan, labour day is observed and honoured on May 1 every year

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Toronto Central Island

 

I am grateful for and comprehend the significance of Toronto Central Island. Today I toured and spent a day at Toronto Central Island with my family. Toronto Central Island has a spectacular and picturesque view with a variety of recreational activities such as a water park, beach, kids swings and rides, cycling facility, barn, boating facility, swimming pool, mini zoo, maze, park, lush green area and change room facility onsite. There were a variety of restaurants, BBQ, ice cream stalls, benches and a washroom facility. I don't want to write much to describe the place, however, I would strongly recommend to all of my readers to visit and explore the recreational activities. Toronto Central Island is such a wondrous and panoramic island to explore.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Uber drives & Uber Eats

Today I am grateful for and appreciate the significance of uber drive and uber eats at the time of the COVID 19 pandemic. Uber drive and uber eats offer their services throughout the pandemic and lockdown. I acknowledge and recognize their efforts and applications for supporting communities at various levels, for instance:

• Uber drives and uber eats providing their non-stop and untiring services throughout the pandemic for supporting the lives. It helps people to get to their destinations on time. Its charges are affordable and reasonable for everyone

• Uber service providers always maintain their insurance, car maintenance and quality of services along with the driver's skills

• Uber eats delivers food of your selection and choice to your doorstep, regardless of rain or shine and day or night

• Uber drives could be booked by anyone regardless of their socioeconomic status, gender, health, age and community. It transports the rider to their destination with the specific and fixed rate

• Uber rides support people in an emergency to go to the hospitals, clinics, appointments, for shopping, for eating out, dine-in, cinemas, theatre, clubs, school, college, university, board meetings and to visit family and friends

• Uber drives and uber eats are the true blessing and benefit to the community at every walk of life. I appreciate their untiring efforts and support

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below

Flemo Farm

Today I am grateful for and appreciate the guided tour of Flemo Farm by Viji Pal and a farmer named Lal Fernando. We met Charles who is an indigenous farmer. It was not only a guided tour but excellent volunteering and learning opportunity for me and my children. Flemo Farm is a half-acre urban farm in Felmingdon Park. Flemo Farm is a collaboration between the Flemingdon Health Centre and Foodshare Toronto with support from the city of Toronto and primary funding from the Weston Family Foundation. Today I acknowledge and recognize the significance of Flemo farm for a variety of reasons, for instance:

• Today's guided tour was a magnificent learning and training opportunity for me and my children. Viji mentioned to me and the children that 6 beds are assigned to 6 farmers and one portion was related to the community people. The community farm division was filled with flowers and some vegetables

• Lal Fernando taught and showed the children, how to remove weeds with utensils to protect the plant. Both children engaged in removing weeds then they learned how to remove weeds with their hands without hurting a plant's root. They practiced and helped Lal Fernando enthusiastically

• Lal Fernando showed them a watering system for the plants. It was a surpassing learning opportunity for both children. Their every question was answered by Lal such as why do you have lots of green chillies but we don't have it on our balcony? They discovered and learned the differences between pot soil and farm soil and its connection with the earth

• Lal Fernando explained to them calmly and comfortably how to prepare the soil for the plants. He mentioned the purpose and role of potassium, nitrogen and phosphorus

• I noticed and sensed the children as having a little farmer in them. Primarily, they were connected with the earth, landscape, soil and flemo farm environment. All these constituents and variables emphatically affect them physically, behaviorally and emotionally

• My children remarkably enjoyed this volunteering work and were hooked on the notion to help our farmers for growing vegetables for the community. They adore and love to participate again in their very own Flemo Farm. I discovered their sense of belongingness and connectedness

• While way back home, their excitement and hands-on experience were visible on their appearances. I realized that this Flemo Farm volunteering experience positively affects their mental health and well being

• I would highly recommend these guided tours and volunteering opportunity for children as it helps them to promote and boost fine and gross motor skills. It also strengthens and elevates the eye-hand coordination

• I appreciate Viji Pal's hospitality and generosity in offering snacks and juices to my entire family at the end of the Flemo Farm guided tour and volunteering work. I am thankful and grateful to Lal Fernando to offer my children the token of appreciation and help such as green chillies, tomatoes and fresh lettuce 

• I genuinely appreciate Viji Pal and Lal Fernando for their time and efforts to unite the community NOT divide the community

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to ask or comment below