Yayasan TM Tower Run with the power of USA Potatoes

Assalamualaikum.

Pada hari Ahad lepas, 10 November, saya menyertai Yayasan TM Tower Run di Menara TM, Bangsar.  Konsep acara ini adalah peserta perlu menaiki tangga hingga ke tingkat 54  iaitu sebanyak 1296 anak tangga dengan ketinggian 200 meter.

 

Acara bermula seawal  jam 6 pagi dengan ucapan pembukaan, doa dan nyanyian lagu Negaraku.  Peserta di lepaskan seawal jam 7 pagi. Terdapat enam (6) kategori – Terbuka Lelaki (berumur 18 tahun ke atas), Terbuka Wanita (berumur 18 tahun ke atas), Veteran Lelaki (berumur 40 tahun ke atas) , Veteran Wanita (berumur 40 tahun ke atas), kakitangan TM Lelaki dan TM kakitangan Wanita. Semua pelari di lepaskan secara individu dengan selang masa lima (5) saat manakala untuk pelari elit, selang masa 15 saat.

Lokasi yang sangat convenience.  Saya pergi ke race site menaiki LRT laluan Kelana Jaya dan berhenti di Station Kerinchi.  Dari situ, saya berjalan lebih kurang 3 minit untuk ke race site.  Seawal jam 8.30 pagi saya sampai dan  terus saya menuju ke booth yang berada di situ.

U.S Purple Potatoes with Blueberry Boost Shake U.S Purple Potatoes with Blueberry Boost Shake, and the meshed potatoes  was very delicious, perfect for pre-run or pre- workout breakfast.

Terima kasih kepada USA Potatoes salah satu penaja event pada hari itu dengan  beri free flow minuman dan meshed potatoes with gravy  secara percuma untuk semua peserta. Sedap and yeayy!!!

Saya menyertai dalam kategori Women Vateran dan dilepaskan pada  jam 9.40 pagi  Saya sangat teruja kerana ini adalah kali kedua saya menyertai larian menara, larian menara pertama saya adalah KL Towerthon di Menara KL pada tahun 2011.

Larian bermula dari dalam Menara TM, i just walk slow and easy. Ada 2 water station disediakan dengan air mineral dan isotonik.

They are so energetic, maybe they take energy drink and the meshed potatoes before the race. 🙂

Di Setiap tingkat, volunteer beri kata-kata semangat dan bersorak, hilang sikit rasa penat saya.  Saya dapat tamatkan acara dengan catatan masa 17minit 20 saat.  Bergambar kenangan di tingkat 54.

With Malaysia Airlines crew at the 54th floor.

Meshed Potatoes and U.S Purple Potatoes with Blueberry Boost Shake. I take it after the race too…Potatoes provides the carbohydrate, potassium, and energy you need at your best. A medium-size (5.2oz) has 3 grams of complete protein.

Kentang mengandungi karbohidrat, membekalkan 30% vitamin C dalam keperluan harian, Potassium yang lebih dari pisang bersaiz sederhana.  Kentang bersaiz sederhana (5.2 oz) hanya mempunyai 110 kalori.  No fat! No Sodium! No Cholesterol. Sebab itu lah saya rasa sungguh energetic!

Teruja saya bila dapat berjumpa dengan Soh Wai Ching! Pelari Menara No. 1 dunia! tahniah Wai Ching!

Soh Wai Ching (kiri) tempat pertama, dapat menghabiskan larian dalam masa 6 minit 9 saat.

Soh Wai Ching dinobatkan sebagai Pelari Menara No. 1 dunia dengan masa 6:09. Dengan kemenangan itu, Soh adalah Pemenang No.1 dunia dan perlumbaan akhir di Shanghai akan menjadi perlumbaan terpenting untuk beliau untuk mengekalkan gelaran  No. 1 dunia yang  mana rekod akan dikemas kini setiap bulan. Pelancaran Menara Antarabangsa Yayasan TM 2019 disahkan oleh Persatuan Dunia Towerrunning (TWA) dan Malaysia Towerrunning Association (MTA) dalam memastikan semua aspek keselamatan dan teknikal berjaya dilaksanakan. MTA adalah ilham Soh Wai Ching, seorang siswazah Sains Sukan Universiti Malaya. Towerrunning adalah senaman dan sukan yang cekap dan sangat berpatutan. MTA berfungsi sebagai Badan Nasional yang menetapkan tatacara dan peraturan untuk mempromosikan sukan yang sangat bermanfaat ini dan berharap dapat memperluakan lagi komuniti pelari menara.

With few of friends yang sama-sama berlari.. tahniah!

Yayasan TM International Tower Run acara yang sangat baik dan teratur. Saya harap ia akan diadakan semula tahun depan. Terima kasih kepada USA Potatoes kerana memberi saya peluang untuk mengambil bahagian dalam acara hebat ini. 

 “Real Food for Real Performance”!

 

‘REAL FOOD. REAL PERFORMANCE’

Kuala Lumpur, November 5, 2019 – The potato may be small in size, but it is big in nutrition! Studies have shown that the difference between the athlete’s best performances come down to his or her nutrition intake. Potatoes provide the complex carbohydrates, potassium, fibre and vitamin C required to perform better than ever.  More energy-packed than any other popular vegetables, potatoes contain more potassium than a banana.

Potatoes USA today shared information about its “Real Food, Real Performance 2019” campaign at Menara KL (KL Tower). Besides featuring education on performance nutrition for a power-packed lifestyle, there were collaborative initiatives with several athletes for 2019/2020. Potatoes USA will also be participating in various performance-related athletic events including the upcoming Yayasan TM Tower Run on November 10, which has attracted thousands of runners – from local and abroad.  

In recent years, research conducted has shown that the potatoes are natural, functional, energy-packed foods with healthy goodness for sportsmen, and every day consumers  to perform at their best. Potatoes are easily digestible and more energy dense than any other popular vegetable and potatoes are also a good choice to fuel the demands of competition. Potatoes USA is now working closely with a community of recognized athletes in the U.S. as well as various countries in Asia like Japan, South Korea, China and now Malaysia.    

 

Today at KL Tower, three champion runners were enlisted to bring to life the community message of active sports in relations to natural performance nutrition. They were World’s no. 2 & Asia’s no. 1 towerrunner champion, Soh Wai Ching, Malaysia’s no. 1 veteran runner Jeffrey Ross and ultra-marathon champion, Tahira Najmunisaa.  

The three runners took U.S. Potato Flex Energy Bars to fuel them throughout the run up the strenuous and endless 2,058 steps of the tower in a bid to best their   own personal run up time. They drank U.S Potato Smoothies after the run up to replenish their depleted glycogen levels. In a sharing session afterwards, each revealed their sports regime and how nutrition plays a crucial part to their successes.

 

Jeff Ross, Tahira & Soh Wai Ching

Soh said that towerrunning is an extremely intensive sport requiring a lot  of energy in such a short period of time. “The total calories burned for a 10-minute walk up the stairs are equivalent to 20-30 minutes of brisk walking horizontally. As such, I require large amounts of carbs to provide high levels of energy. In fact, due to my active sports regime, my diet consists of 70% carbohydrates. I will opt for good carbs, nutrient-dense and natural foods to help me. U. S potatoes fit the bill, “enthused Soh.

Soh is also the President of Malaysia Towerrunning Association (MTA), formed in August 2019 to govern and regulate Towerrunning Sport in Malaysia.  Present today is the association secretary, Mr. Low Keng Yik, a towerrunner himself. “We are happy to have Potatoes USA’s support to raise the awareness of towerrunning sports which is “half the time, double the benefits” and potatoes as “half the size, multiple dense nutrients food”, quipped Soh.

Well-known Sport Dietitian / Nutritionist and an avid runner herself, Adele Wong and Chef Janice Lee went on to showcase several delicious recipes suitable to fuel the performances of competitive sportsmen.

Adele Wong – Sport Dietitian / Nutritionist

Adele explained, Carbohydrates are one of the key nutrients in performance nutrition. Athletes engaged in high volume and high intensity training require adequate amounts of carbohydrates for energy. Based on current research, my experience working with athletes as well as being an athlete myself, it is clear that performance suffers when insufficient carbohydrates are consumed. Specific amounts will depend on the context of the athlete.”  Meanwhile another sport science expert also recommends that the daily carbohydrate intake for athletes range from 6-10 g/kg body weight.

“U.S. potatoes are an example of an excellent source of carbohydrates. They are rich in vitamin B6 and C, potassium, folate, fibre and antioxidants. They are extremely versatile and filling, making it a convenient source for athletes” she elaborated.

U.S. potatoes are recognised for its high quality.  This is due to the ideal growing temperatures, rich soil, state-of-the-art processing and generations of expertise.  All these factors make U.S. potatoes the finest in the world. Moreover, stringent U.S. industry standards that meet all the Food and Drug Administration and USDA specifications, ensure US Potatoes are safe and are of top-quality.

Cost-wise, U.S. potatoes can provide key nutrients at an affordable price.  A serving of potatoes (5.3 ounces) will only set you back around RM1.50.  In fact, potatoes have the highest score per ringgit on providing potassium, fibre, protein, vitamins C and E, calcium, iron and magnesium, beating out other vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots.  Potatoes continue to be one of the greatest values in the produce department.

-End-

Some quick facts about the potato power:

  • 620 Milligrams of Potassium: With more potassium than a medium-size banana, potatoes are perfect for aiding muscle, cardiovascular and nervous system function during long endurance events.
  • 26 grams of carbohydrate – Potatoes are a nutrient-dense quality carbohydrate, important for optimal physical and mental performance as the primary fuel for your brain and a key source of energy for muscles. And, because your body’s own stores of carbohydrate are limited and may be depleted – even in a single session of intense and/or prolonged exercise– it’s important to replenish them.
  • 110 Calories for Energy: Easily digestible and more energy-dense than any other popular vegetables, potatoes are a good choice to fuel the demands of racing a marathon.
  • Check out these recipe ideas: https://www.potatogoodness.com/recipe-category/performance/

Details of 3 runner champions

  • Soh Wai Ching is the Fastest Towerrunner in Malaysia, 1st in Asia and 2nd in the World according to the Tower Running World Association.  He is an elite athlete with Sport Science Degree background and recently emerged the 10km champion in KL Standard Chartered Malaysia 2019.
  • Jeffrey Ross, a Scottish living in Malaysia is a Certified Revolution Running Coach, ranked number 1 Veteran Runner in Malaysia and the latest KL Standard Chartered Malaysia 2019 – 21km run champion. 
  • Tahira Najmunisaa M.Zaid is an ultra-marathon runner, Athlete and Champion of the Lumut Eco-challenge 2019

 

 

 

 

 

Sea Expedition – Kelong Jump & Mangrove Kayaking

It was another great day out at sea ma syaa Allah. This is our 2nd run of Sea Expedition as part of GEMS Movement – Grundy+POPWOW Empowering Me Series. The weather was perfect and the company was simpply AWESOME!

Objectives

  1. Instill confidence in the open water
  2. Learn to work together (kayaking) against the natural elements
  3. Overcome fear of uncertainties (Kelong Jump)
  4. Increase awareness about the importance of affects of pollution in the sea, how kelong works, history of Pulau Ubin

We completed the mission!

We met early morning at Changi Point Ferry Terminal and boarded our chartered boat to Peers Outdoor Kelong. All 14 of us were so nervous yet excited to face the challenges ahead. The refreshing boat ride did calm their nerves as we travelled about 15mins to reach the kelong. We were warmly greeted by Sky and Dini, the intructors in-charge of our fate today hahaha.

Kelong Jump

Our first challenge was Kelong Jump. It didn’t look so scary at first but as one ascend to the top of the platform (about 1.5m above sea) and faces the open water, legs started to feel like jelly. Uncle Lee is ready in the safety boat about 20 metres away. Sky stood by our side to ensure that we adopt the proper jumping position while the rest of us cheered. The motivation and support from everyone definitely helped. The scene is set, we knew what to do, adopted the proper skill, safety measures- personal life jacket, safety boat, safety personnel in pos… all we had to do was tawakkal and take the plunge. A hundred question started to creep into our minds. We didn’t know how deep the water was, what lurks underwater, how strong the current was. Am I going to be swept way? Am I going to drown? While some even thought of sharks and loch ness monsters, i thought about Nemo and Dory and Spongebob hehehe… Some of us took a lil bit longer on the platform to compose ourselves but one by one, all 14 of us took the challenge and battled our fears to jump.  I was so proud of everyone!

Sarah bracing for Kelong Jump

Dini and Sky motivating Nasreen for her jump

Pulau Ubin Mangrove Kayaking 

Next Challenge! Mangrove Kayaking on double kayaks. It was important to delegate the partners correctly according to size and experience. Sky conducted a safety brief and a short lesson on kayaking. We learnt how to paddle, how to communicate with our partners and the whole team with the use of signals by whistle blows and use of paddles. We learnt the jargons – “break raft” and reminded of how to look out for one another. We identified the patners, collected our equipment and head on out to sea.

Kayaking was definitely not as simple and smooth sailing as it seems. There are many elements at play. Cooperation and communication is of utmost importance between partners. While we work together as a duo, we also need to work as a team with other kayaks to ensure that all is present and well. We did a few challenges in the water, kayak along the beautiful mangroves swamps of Pulau Ubin. The tide was going down.It was more difficult to paddle in but the outflow of sea water made it easier for us to glide back out into the sea.

In the midst of the expedition, we mantained  a single file while keeping our silence to enjoy the serenity and to look out for the familiar creatures. We would huddle and Sky would tell us about how the mangrove works, the history of Pulau Ubin and the kelongs. Mangrove forests are an extremely productive ecosystems that provide numerous good and services both to the marine environment and people. Being homes to a large variety of sea creatures, the dense root systems of mangrove forests also trap sediments flowing down rivers and off the land. This helps stabilises the coastline and prevents erosion from waves and storms.

We kayak from Jelutong Campsite, through the straits of Ketam Island and into RUM Site 2

It took us about 3 hours to finally complete the expedition. We were exhausted but definitely fullfiled and satisfied! Back at the kelong, while drying off, we conductd a post-activity debrief session where every member shared their learning points.

Learning Points – The different elements and how it applies to our daily life

  1. The Tools – In this scenario, the tools we have is the PSD (Personal Safety Device – lifejacket), paddle, kayak and ourselves. These are elements we can control. It is our responsibilities to learn how best to use these tools for our benefits, learn how to manourver, how to work with and not against the tools we have in our lives. We can choose not to adhere to safety regulations and endanger ourselves and others. We can choose to be lazy and let ourselves drift away expecting others to steer the boat for us. We can choose to throw away the paddle and not benefit from it. Or we can ensure our personal safety, work hard and smart to learn to paddle and manouver the boat to get to our destination and benefit from the tools we have and the experience we gained. Like all other tools we have in our lives. The pen and paper, our smartphones, our laptops, our kitchen, our education… we can choose how these tools benefit us. These tools are at our disposal and it is within our control to put in the effort and learn how to use these tools positively.
  2. Forces of Nature – As we kayak, we work with or against the natural elements like the sea, the current and tides, the wind, the weather- rain or shine.  We can predict and forecast but can never control. We can choose to complain, berate and curse at the “bad” weather or lament at every difficulty. Or we can choose to embrace and learn how to work best in any condition. As we paddle upstream against the tide, we paddled harder. It is tough but if we presevere, we will get to our destination and we know at the end of the day, “What doesn’t kill us, just makes us stronger.” We definitely went back with stronger arms and fitter upper bodies! As we went downstream, clouds were coming in, we relaxed and enjoyed ourselves as we went with the tide, light rain cooled us after the harsh heat of the sun and the winds pushed us towards the kelong. “Indeed, With difficulty, there is ease”. Our life is nothing but trials and tribulations. It is through these simulated experiences that we learn to deal and cope with challenges and difficulties. We sometimes land in conditions beyond our control, like the elements we faced today, we can choose to drift away or drown in our own desperation or work hard to overcome the challenge. We can always choose to look at the brighter side of things. As we paddled up, through the heat, our laughter made it easy. The beautiful scenery and awesome sights made it all worth it. We return humbled and full of gratitude.
  3. Social Wellness (Other people) – Social Wellness is the relationship we have with other people. In this case, our kayak partner, other members of the team and our Instructor. This is where effective communication plays an integral part in our safety and well-being. Effective communication includes LISTENING and giving proper instructions where patience, empathy (understanding the emotions) and sense of awareness also plays a role. One steers and one guides. Both paddle left and right together. Keeping in formation. No one left behind. We can choose not to listen to instructions and then panic because we don’t know how to use the paddle and we are not moving in the direction we want. We can choose to be lazy and let our partner do most of the work. We can choose to be selfish and leave others behind. Or we can choose to work together, listen and learn and look out for one another. Like all other relationships we have in our lives. In marriage with our spouses, with neighbbours and colleagues and family members. We can be selfish and excel ourselves or we can work together to ensure the well-being of our society and community is being taken care of. We can learn to listen and be empathetic to preserve our relationships or not. We can help or not. We can be vigilant or ignorant. At the end of the day, we will definitely reap thhe benefits or face the consequences of our choices. If we expect kindness from others, let ourselves be kind.

Effective communication includes LISTENING and giving proper instructions where patience, empathy (understanding the emotions) and sense of awareness also plays a role

Alhamdulillah, at the end of the day, we achieved all the objectives set for this activity. We gained much insights about oursleves, our comrades, the kelongs in Singapore, Pulau Ubin and the mangrove swamps. After the kelong jump, 3hrs of paddling, debrief session, reflections and sharings, we each takeaway some valuable lessons and experience, that we will never gain through books. Parallel life skills, lessons that we hope will benefit them in their daily lives and which will be used to benefit others. In syaa Allah…

 

To more adventures! Look out for our next blog about our Caving Experience and Waterfall Abseiling at Gunung Muntahak.

Love,

Efah Anuar

Ecominim, the Gentle Household Cleaning Product

I use body soap to wash dishes for many years now. It is not perfect, but much gentle on my hands as to compared to other dish washing soap. But now, I use Ecominim dish-wash. It is more gentle and cleans better.

My Top 3 Favourites purchased at Opika Organic Store

Ecominim has a wide range of products; shoe deodorizer & dehumidifier, floor cleaner, glass and surface cleaner, dish-wash, powder and liquid detergent. My favorites are the dish-wash, detergents and floor cleaner because they are so gentle on my hands and clothes that I am confident enough to domestic cleaning without gloves on.

Care for Sportswear and Swimwear

I find Ecominim detergent suitable for workout clothes. Clothes that are made of spandex, especially activewear and swimwear are best hand-washed with gentle soap. You need to be extra careful washing swimwear if you want it to last. Avoid washing swimwear in the washing machine (use delicate setting if you use washing machine) and use cold water. To retain the shape, color and texture of the fabric, avoid using softener, do not use bleach and do not soak overnight. To avoid fading, do not dry directly in the sun.

Super Gentle on Skin

I have several floor cleaner samples and accidentally use them for hand-washed laundry.  I only realize after second load wash. However, since the detergent is gentle, my hands and workout clothes are fine. In fact, it don’t even feel that my hands are soaking in floor cleaner.

Impressed, I later use the powder detergent on subsequent machine wash and happy with my washes. The liquid and powder detergent is easily rinsed off and leaves no residue. There is no coloring in these detergents and I love the clean feeling on washed fabric. The key ingredient is plant-base and the products are safe for skin prone to eczema.

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Where can you get Ecominim

You can purchase Ecominim at Opika Organic Store, 1 Utama Shopping Center, Lower Ground Floor or on their website – https://www.ecominim.com/

You can get 20% OFF by using discount voucher : NASHATAECOMINIM to purchase from Ecominim E-store valid until 30 Sept 2019.

The prices range from RM16.50 – RM26.90.

Tan Yet Mee – The lady behind Ecominim. She worked on this for many many years and I am so happy that  she made the products happened!

Ecominim are not only safe for me and you but also environment. They use ingredients that has minimal impact to the environment and produce household cleaning products that are safe. It seems them they have it all for active ladies. The shoe deodorizer is also useful for running shoes.

Click here for Ecominim Catalog

 

Runners, These Are Some Important Stretches to Include In Your Routine

Salam Sisters,

I pray that your Ramadan and your Eid was full of blessings, family time and prayers.
InshAllah all of your prayers will be answered and your wishes will be granted.

Now that Eid is done, it is time to go back on track with our exercise routine.
Nashata has a great runners community. I wanted to share this quick video to help you with your stretching routine to keep you injury free and keep your legs running pain free inshAllah.

Let me know if you have any questions or if you would like to see a specific video.

Keep it Healthy,
Nura

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUsbESlS1mUp-2veiEc1iew

Legs/Hips stretch – Good for Acheiving Splits

Salam Sisters,

This is a quick 9 min stretch for the legs and hips.
Take advantage during Ramadan and do it when you can. It will help kick away any stagnant feelings in your muscles.
If you want better results, try to hold each pose for 30 sec to one minute. 

Let me know if you have any questions or if you want any specific workout videos.

Peace and Love
Nura

Use Code “Nura” for a 10% discount on any Nashata products <3 

FullBody Workout – 4 Sets – NO Equipment Needed

Salam Sisters,

Here is a new video in the NO Equipment Series.
Today it No Equipment FULLBODY Workout.
All you need is your energy and some space.

How to use this video?
I have 4 sets of full body workout out. Pick which ones you want to do and repeat each move 10-15 times. Then repeat them 3 times.

Workout Outfits Details: 

Sports Hijab:
– Hooda Ellipse in Black

Modest Sports Tops: 
– Ultra Top II in Pink
– Ultra Hoodie Gen in Gold and White
– Zipper Hoodie in Grey

Leggings: 
– Riada Training Pants II
– Riada Sweat Pants II

Use Code “NURA’ for 10% discount from Nashata.com 

Keep It Healthy,
Nura

Benefits of Joining a Race – Why pay to torture myself?

Why should we invest time, effort and money to join races?

I have personally received many feedback about how it is wasteful to spend on races. The time and effort spent to train for the races are better off spent on other beneficial things they say. While I respect the opinion of others, I beg to differ.

We study for exams. Undergo training for work.

Should we simply take a chance in life?

Entering a race is like a learning process with many beneficial attributes for this lifetime and the next. Learning should never cease in one’s lifetime regardless of age. One should yearn for lifelong learning and should be willing to spend on beneficial education. Learning is not constrained only within the classroom walls. Learning happens everywhere. We spent most of our time learning through books in the classroom or perhaps reading online. We learn through experience, our own or from others, where it is most beneficial when followed by reflections. We learn best when we are able to apply the theory we learnt into practical exercises where we are able to relay and convert words into productive actions.


How do one learn to speak with confidence? Learn the techniques in theory in a classroom or from a book. Does it end there? Will one automatically develop confidence upon graduating from a theory only course? Definitely no. One needs to go for a series of lessons which includes practical exercises, speaking to the mirror, practice in a mock set up, etc. One will finally be successful when they eventually effectively deliver a talk/speech in front of a life audience.The police force, the armed forces, the fire fighters, the paramedics, doctors don’t become what they are just through books and lectures. They undergo a series of training to be able to perform effectively and efficiently when the time of need arrives. When the bell rings, when the siren sound
off, when the call is made… they are prepared. Prepared due to the practical lessons, intensive training, like it is the real thing and through repetition. And it is imperative because, the preservation of life, depends on them, their capabilities, their abilities to perform under stress.

How do we learn to have tawakkal (reliance on Allah alone)?

How do we practice istiqomah (steadfastness)?

How do we learn to instil discipline in ourselves?

How do we learn to develop sabr (patience)?

How do we foster teamwork, inculcate determination, resilience?

How do we become confident?

When Allah put trials and tribulation in our path,

is He torturing us?

Or training us?

I choose to believe the latter

We usually would wait till the next real life challenge or the next calamity before we
know whether we have any of those qualities and abilities . What if there is a way for us to develop these heaven-worthy qualities through self-imposed challenges? Wouldn’t it be better than to wait for something to happen to see whether we have such abilities?What if we are able to train ourselves purposefully to adopt those qualities? There are many ways… and one way is to enter a race.

Once we are committed to a race, we will have to plan our training schedule. Training must be progressive and adequate with enough time for rest and recovery. A poor plan or failure to follow the plan will result in poor performance or injury. One would definitely suffer throughout the race without proper training. With this knowledge, we instill discipline upon ourselves to keep to the training schedule and meet training objectives in order to compete/complete the race successfully.

A well planned training program is essential. We need to instil discipline to follow the program and to meet the training objectives. This ensures that we do not suffer during the race and not incur any injuries

Discipline and istiqomah Checked.

Race day. How can one not clearly see how completing a race comes with great benefits? The more difficult the race/challenge, the higher quality of benefits attained. Completing a race requires much determination. It not only requires physical strength, it calls upon great mental strength. The long distance, the elevation gain, the inclement weather, the obstacles – man-made and natural, the sheer fatigue are factors which can bring one down to the ground, admit defeat, call it quits, DNF.

Resilience is what drives one to cross the finishing line, jump over the fiery pit. The journey increases one’s level of situational awareness, sportsmanship. One learns to appreciate nature, His creations and ponder over His grace and blessings. Standing at the foot of a mountain makes us timid and humbled at His Magnificence. Standing at the summit will make us prostrate in gratitude, awed at its beauty. Racing in a team will foster teamwork, spirit of altruism, unity, patience. Promotes social wellness. Free falling requires one to embrace the essence of tawakkal. With landing knowledge in hand, safety checked, one surrenders to Allah as the feet land safely to the ground (or not). Wall/rock climbing promotes problem-solving skills, enhances coordination, increases strength. Completing the race/challenge brings a bout of newly attained confidence, increases one’s self- esteem, negates one’s uncertainties over her own abilities, upon His Mercy and Might.

There are some things that we simply cannot learn just from books

Determination, Resilience, Social Wellness, Environmental Wellness, Physical Wellness, Emotional Wellness, Spiritual Wellness, Sabr, Tawakkal, Confidence Checked.

Forging of camaraderie through hard times

The above mentioned qualities are probably less than 50% of the total wholesome benefits of completing a race/ challenge. Not to mentioned the health benefits it claims as made obligatory (wajib) in the deen. The best thing is, all these qualities and benefits does not end at the finishing line. It transforms us. Whatever we attained in that one challenge is applicable in real life as well! Tadaaaa.. (Surprising meh?) Having overcome such hardships willingly, in a controlled environment, we will be able to face anything that crosses our path in syaa Allah. What is a mere life’s obstacle when you have climbed mountains and touched the clouds, when you have jumped over walls, tumble through grit, run through pain and fatigue, swim across the ocean… Believe me, you will automatically apply the qualities you attained and reap the benefits. Our everyday chores becomes simpler, dreams and goals becomes more achievable, trials and tribulations becomes more palatable. Consider races and challenges you sign up for as simulations of a real life challenge. With the knowledge, you have made the effort and play your part to prepare yourself, when the real thing happens, you take action then you let go and let God.

He told us that life is nothing but trials and tribulation. Each one to prepare us for the next and every struggles is never in vain. Every hardship is a stepping stone and we get stronger at every successful step. He said knowledge is the key to paradise. Successful are those who bears patience and is grateful. We can choose to wait and see or work hard to prepare ourselves. We study for exams. Undergo training for work. Should we simply take a chance in life?

Lets calculate. (ROI vs Opportunity Cost)

  • $100 x 12 local races = $1200 spent on races (It’s not much for an lifetime investment)
  • 2hrs of training x 6 days x 52 weeks = 624 hours / 8760 hours in a year (7% of your total time!)
  • 624 x 500 = 312 000 calories loss (Is this not beneficial?)

A 1 hour walk will burn between 1.6 and 2.4 calories for every pound of your weight, depending on speed. That’s 250 to 350 calories for the average person walking pace

We all have 24hrs each day. 2 hours of training leaves us with 22 hours to do everything else. Sleep, rest, eat, work/attend school, attend religious classes, pray, housework, read, practice a hobby, meet friends, cook, spend time with family and much more. There is definitely much to gain than to lose. Need I say more?

In conclusion, being committed to a race will not only increases one’s physical strength but also mental, emotional and spiritual strength (with the right intentions and proper execution). It builds character, qualities one requires not only to complete a race but to overcome challenges in our everyday lives.

Disclaimer: To fully reap the benefits with barokah (His blessings), one must practice this within the stipulated laws of syariah and in moderation like everything else we do.

S T R O N G E R

“Life at its best is a series of challenges. A big enough challenge will bring out strength and abilities you never knew you had. Take on challenges and you will bring yourself to life.”

Physical Courage is bravery in the face of physical pain, hardship, death or threat of death while moral courage is the ability to act rightly in the face of popular opposition, shame, scandal, discouragement or personal loss.

Mental strength is the ability to regulate your emotions, manage your thoughts and behave in a positive manner despite your circumstances. Developing mental strength is about finding the courage to live according to your values and being bold enough to create your own definition of success. Mental strength involves more than willpower; it requires hard work and commitment. It’s about establishing healthy habits and choosing to devote your time and energy to self-improvement. Although it’s easier to feel mentally strong when life seems simple, often, true mental strength becomes most apparent in the midst of tragedy. Choosing to develop skills that increases your mental strength is the best way to prepare for life’s inevitable obstacles.

Although it’s easier to feel mentally strong when life seems simple, often, true mental strength becomes most apparent in the midst of tragedy.

“The Brave is not one who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”

Developing mental strength is a work in progress. It may even take a lifetime of learning. At times it will seem more difficult than other times. How do the toughest people summon the will to keep going? In the book Resilience: The Science of Mastering Life’s Greatest Challenges, the authors studied resilient people for over 20 years. They spoke with Vietnam prisoner of war, Special Forces instructors and civilian who dealt with terrible experiences like medical problems, abuse and trauma. This is a few pointers of what they learnt…

  1. Be Optimistic. Truly resilient people who need to survive the harshest situations and still accomplish goals, balance a positive outlook with a realistic view of the world. But what about when your optimism gets tested and things gets scary
  2. Face your Fears. Neuroscience says there’s only one real way to deal with fear: you need to face it, head on. This is what most resilient people do. When we avoid scary things we become more scared. When you face your fears, they become less frightening. To extinguish a fear-conditioned memory, one must be exposed to the fear-inducing stimulus in a safe environment and this exposure needs to last long enough for the brain to form a new memory which conveys that the fear-conditioned stimulus is no longer dangerous in the present environment.
  3. Have a Moral Compass. They found that the emotional resilient people all had a strong sense of right and wrong. Despite being in situations that could threaten their lives, they always thought about others, not just themselves. They possessed a keen sense of right and wrong that strengthened them during periods of extreme stress and afterward, as they adjusted to life following trauma. Altruism often stood as a pillar of their value system.
  4. Practice Spirituality. This was the #1 thing that one researcher found when studying people who overcame tragedy. He found that religious belief among survivors to be the single most powerful force in explaining the tragedy and in explaining survival.
  5. Social Support. Our brains need social support to function optimally. Connection with others releases oxytocin which calms your mind and reduces stress.
  6. Have Resilient Role Models. Resilient individuals have role models whose beliefs, attitudes and behaviours inspire them. However, often enough, they have bad role models instead – people who provide an example of what they don’t want to be.
  7. Maintain Physical Fitness. Those who are resilient believe that staying fit has helped them both during their traumatic ordeal and during their recovery. The stress of exercise helps us adapt to the stress we will feel when life challenges us. Researchers believe that during vigorous exercise, the “anxiety-sensitive” person is forced to tolerate many of the symptoms (rapid heart rate, sweating, rapid breathing) that frighten them during periods of anxiety. Over time, the “anxiety-sensitive” individuals who continues to exercise vigorously can learn that these symptoms of arousal are typically not dangerous and the fear that these symptoms trigger gradually decreases in intensity (Salmon, 2001).
  8. Keep your Brain Strong. Resilient people are very often lifelong learners. They keep growing their mind, learning to learn and adapting to new information about the world. They continually seek opportunities to become more mentally fit.

“The Brave may not live forever but the cautious do not live at all. For now, you are travelling the road between who you think you are and who you can be”

What is GEMS: Grundy + POPWOW Empower ME Series?

GEMS is a series of fun and easy challenges across different elements, especially tailored to simulate life’s obstacles. GEMS hopes to EMPOWER participants with essential life skills, help to identify and remove any mental obstacles, bring clarity and complete with renewed confidence in themselves and their ability to make decisions and conquer life’s challenges. Participants will learn to enhance their spiritual practice, develop a heightened self-awareness and expand their comfort zone. All they have to do is participate in the activities and collect as many Gems as possible. The more Gems they collect, the more skills they will attain and more confidence garnered. All activities will be conducted as a group to foster social support with command opportunities to develop leadership skills. Don’t worry, no creepy crawlies in included in this series!

GEMS is brought to you by Nashata Active Singapore. Register here : https://shop.nashata.com/en/134-active

RAMADAN TIPS : FIT & HEALTHY

Ramadan, already started on  May 6 in most countries this year (2019), is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. It involves abstaining from eating, drinking, smoking and sexual relations from dawn to sunset, in the hopes that it will lead to greater “taqwa”, or consciousness of God.

Benefits of fasting

Experts have also found that restricting food intake during the day can help prevent health problems such as high cholesterol, heart disease and obesity, as well as improve mental health and wellbeing. By not consuming any food, our body is able to concentrate on removing toxins, as we give the digestive system a rest.

Maintain healthy, nutritious & eating habits

 1. Never skip suhoor – Suhoor is important during Ramadan.  It helps your body stay hydrated and fueled up on energy and nutrients until iftar.

A well balanced meal suhoor contains : 

  • Complex carbohydrate – oats, wheat, grains and other complex carbohydrates are slow-releasing carbs, it helps keep your blood sugar steady and give you feeling fullness.
  • High Fibre food – High fiber food are digest slowly dates, apricot, prunes, vegetables, and fruits. Bananas are good in potassium that help your body hydrated.  
  • Protein – eggs, cheese, yoghurt or meat can replenish your energy.

2.  Cut down sugary and processed food – Avoid heavily processed food contains refined carbohydrates like sugar, and white flour as like normally Ramadan desserts. They are high in fat and low in nutriens.

3.  Break your fast slowly and don’t overindulge – Start with a few dates, and water than wait before your main meal.  Avoid heavy oil and fts in your meal. Make sure you consume plenty of vegetables and good portion of protein and enough carbohydrates.  Eat slowly so that your body can digest the food.

4.  Stay hydrated

Drink at least 8-12 cups of water a day ( 2-3 liter).  Drink plenty of fluids for hydration from the period of Iftar to the time of suhour.  Although juices and milk are sources of fluids, water is the best choice. You can consume other drinks in moderation but beware of sugary Ramadan drinks.

This is the tips how to drink (2-3 liter) in Ramadan.  1 glass = 250mil

1 glass – before suhour

1 glass – after suhour

2 glasses – break fasting (includes juice/ milk)

1 glass – after break fast

1 glass – after maghrib solah      

1 glass – after isya solah

1 glass – after terawih

1 glass – before go to bed

You can also drink in between the time as you need.

5.  Avoid Caffeinated drinks – Caffine such as coffee, tea and colas can stimulates faster water loss, leading dehydration.   

6.  Avoid deep frying – Try to avoid fried foods or those prepared with large quantities of oil.  It it cannot be avoided, reduce the quantities of oil. Alternative recommended oils to use are sunflower, canola and corn oil.  

 7.  Working out

If you can modify your training routine a bit, you will still be able to keep fit with a busy Ramadan  schedule. Try to time your workout so the ending coincides with iftar and you have enough time to shower and break your fast, so you aren’t waiting around totally dehydrated after your run.Take your average workout down a level to make it a little easier on your fasting body. Don’t do any extreme workouts, just something that gets your body moving.