review Archives - My Inner Shakti

Updates + Books + Recipes + Games

Ready or not, here comes a random but hopefully informative post!

First up, life updates…

There have been some changes at work, which means more/elevated responsibilities for me. This also means I’ll be travelling to Rome, Italy for a week in March. So much going on!

I recently shared on Instagram that Vishnu’s on night float for the rest of this week and next. This usually throws me off, but this time around, I’m really trying not to let it get to me. I know we’re only a few days in, but I think I’m doing a great job. Positive self-talk + slowing down a little really helps.

The one thing throwing me off has nothing to do with night float. Kaiden’s been waking up earlier than usual, and it’s exhausting! He wanted to party from 1-2 am the other night! Silly boy! When he wakes up before 5:30, I bring him in our room, so we can both get a little bit more rest. I don’t know if that’s the best move because now he literally points to our room and then our bed. It’s like he wakes up just so he can come sleep with me! Not necessarily the best habit, but I kind of love it. He’s such a cute snugly bug when he sleeps! We shall see where this takes us…

Now on to a few book recommendations!

My 2019 goal is to read 24 books. That’s two per month. I’m a little behind at this point but hoping I can make up for it soon.

Here’s what I’ve read so far…

No Bad Kids by Janet Lansbury
Becoming by Michelle Obama

Up next I’ll be reading One Day in December by Josie Silver.

Now, get ready because you’re going to get a little hungry…here are a few recipes I’ve recently tried and LOVED!

IP Lasagna Soup by The Chutney Life – I’ve made this twice now, and it’s been a hit both times!

IP Masala Khichdi by The Chutney Life – not surprising…another fav! Love the masala aspect to this recipe!

Energy Balls by The Lean Green Bean – you guys know I love Lindsay’s recipes! This one is full of all the good stuff and both adult and kid tested and approved. Kaiden ate two balls last night and probably would’ve had more if I let him!

I got a few messages on Instagram about the games I shared in my stories over the weekend. We played Codenames Pictures (so fun, so hard!), 5 Second Rule (so intense…leaves me so flustered and goofy!), and the age old favorite, Cards Against Humanity. All great options to have on hand for game night!

Guys, I wanted to share some new makeup products I’m using too, but I’m tired and feel like the more responsible thing would be be to go the f to sleep! HA! I’ll share a roundup very soon.

Happy Valentine’s Thursday, y’all! Don’t forget to eat a little chocolate today!

No portion of this post is sponsored. However, affiliate links are included. There is no extra cost to you, but I do receive a small commission on anything you buy through my links. Thank you for reading and supporting My Inner Shakti!

Paperless Post – Customizable Online Stationary

written by Parita 1 Comment

When I was recently contacted about Paperless Post, I almost dismissed the email. But after scrolling through the website and looking at all the cool customizable stationary options they have, I decided to look into the opportunity. So glad I did!

Paperless Post’s products are for everyone. Throwing a party? Pick an invitation card. Saying happy birthday? Pick a birthday card. Thanking a friend? Pick a thank you card. And it’s not just all about greeting cards. You have your pick at cool stationary options too.

Honestly speaking, I find actual paper cards kind of wasteful…and very expensive. I mean, if it’s the only thing you’re getting someone, go all out. Also, speaking of paper cards, as someone who’s had to write over like 300 in past year and a half, I wish I would’ve known about Paperless Post. Like in real life, you pick your card design and write individualized messages to each of your recipients. But unlike real life, you send the card via email. Same sentiments but no waste!

I’m going to use Paperless Post for our holiday card this year, and I’m so excited. Here are a few of the options I’m looking at…

If you’re into the whole digital card trend, you need to check out Paperless Post. I’m positive you’ll love it as much as I do!

While Paperless Post gave me their digital coins in exchange for this review, all opinions shared above are my own!

Why I Believe ‘The Magic of Thinking Big’ is a Worthwhile Read

written by Parita Leave a Comment

I never in a million years thought that it’d take so long to finish a book. The old me could plow through 300+ pages in a weekend. Now? It takes me weeks if not months. Oh well, at least I’m still trying!

I digress!

Today, I want to share why I believe The Magic of Thinking Big is a worthwhile read along with a caveat to go along with that sentiment.

First and foremost, let me start off by saying that this book really is for everyone, regardless of your line of work, level, etc. In my opinion, it’s about how to be human in achieving success (however you define that for yourself). The suggestions really hit home because they’re rooted in basic values and principles. It’s not about achieving overnight success, but rather about making small, simple, and very practical changes to your thinking and ultimately behavior that will allow you to win people over, be happier, achieve your goals, etc.

Let’s move on to the caveat for a second. The book was written in 1959. This means the stories and examples are very old-school (re: sales, manufacturing, male dominated, etc.). On the surface, they seem very archaic, but when you really think about it, they are things that still apply in our modern day lives. Perhaps now more than ever…? If you can get over this one thing and really allow the simplicity of the book to guide your thinking, I think you’ll gain a lot from it. I know I did!

Without giving away all the wisdom, here are a few points that really hit home for me. As you’ll see, these aren’t complex topics/ideas. It’s just simple stuff that we need to be reminded of more often.

Big people monopolize the listening. Small people monopolize the talking.
Don’t sell yourself short. Think, ‘why not me?’
Always ask, “Is it really important?” Especially before getting worked up.
Be human in your approach. Put people first.
“Life it up.” In your smile, your language, etc.
Always think about how you can add value.
Surround yourself with people who are successful and push you to be better.
How you think about yourself is directly correlated to what you can achieve. Whenever doubt creeps into your mind, think big. Focus on what you can do today, all actions welcome.
It’s not always the smartest person in the room who is the most successful. It’s the person who’s willing to build relationships, work hard, and keep trying no matter how many time he/she fails.
Always give people more than they expect to get.
Action, action, action. Action begets action.
Think about things as they can be not as they are. Visualization elevates your thinking and gets you out of the here and now to the possible.

Believe it or not, this is just a small sliver of everything you can get out of this book. Can’t wait to reread again in the future!

And for those who were holding their breath waiting for me to share my next week, it’s going to be Beartown!!! So excited to dig in!

Your turn – what’s your favorite self-help type book?

Cookbook Review | The Truly Healthy Vegetarian Cookbook

written by Parita Leave a Comment

As a vegetarian, Liz’s blog is a constant source of inspiration. She makes good-for-you vegetarian food that not only tastes delicious but is also easy to make. She takes the guesswork out of vegetarian dishes even carnivores will enjoy!

Before I tell you all about her new cookbook, let’s take a BIG step back. Like seven years big. That’s how long I’ve ‘known’ Liz! We met through our blogs and have stayed connected ever since. Personally, I was drawn to her truly down to earth approach to healthy living and life in general. Like her food, she makes it all look easy. I still smile every time I read about Liz’s fun adventures!

Ok, so now about her cookbook, The Truly Healthy Vegetarian Cookbook. If you classify yourself as a vegetarian or are trying to incorporate more meat-free dishes into your life, this is the cookbook for you. Liz is a certified health coach who’s created step-by-step recipes that anyone can make. No matter what kinds of foods you naturally gravitate towards, you’ll find something to devour. Between the pages of this book, you’ll find everything from a spicy peanut sauce to spicy enchilada soup to eggplant ricotta roll ups to chocolate chip chickpea cookies.

Mouth watering yet?

Hold your taste buds for 10 more seconds.

Liz graciously agreed to let me share a recipe from The Truly Healthy Vegetarian Cookbook with all of you. After considering multiple options, I decided to make her Coconut-Mango Smoothie. I know, right? Every sip took me straight to a little cabana on the beach. This smoothie is creamy, tropical, and filling. You better believe I’ll be making this weekly once Spring decides to show up!

Enough from me. Here’s the recipe so you can enjoy alongside me!

Coconut-Mango Smoothie
Serves 2
Prep time: 5 minutes

1 cup ice cubes
1 cup frozen mango chunks
1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
1 cup unsweetened coconut milk or almond milk
2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut flakes
1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)

Blend the ice, mango, pineapple, and coconut milk or almond milk in a blender until smooth.
Divide between two glasses and sprinkle with the coconut flakes and chia seeds (if using).

Yes! It’s that easy.

If you need a little vegetarian inspiration in the kitchen and are looking for a cookbook to introduce you to new recipes that are good for you, this is the one! I mean, did you read what I wrote – CHOCOLATE CHIP CHICKPEA COOKIES. Cookies made from beans that can probably be eaten for breakfast! Wins all around!

Your turn – what’s your favorite cookbook?

P.S. Visit my Instagram page for a chance to win your very own copy of The Truly Healthy Vegetarian Cookbook!

The Lollipop Baby Monitor

written by Parita Leave a Comment

I’ve said it before and I’ll probably say it again at some point. Every first-time decision you make as a parent feels monumental. And then once you get used to whatever it is, you ask yourself, “Why did I overthink that so much?”

Vishnu and I went back and forth for a while when deciding on a baby monitor. We read reviews, we read consumer reports, we thought about our needs and what features we really needed, etc.. After a month or so, Vishnu made an executive decision and purchased the Lollipop Baby Monitor.

The Lollipop is not your average monitor, so of course, I was a little hesitant at first. I didn’t think we needed the “Tesla of baby monitors.” Once Vishnu explained how it works and good for us, I was on board.

So here’s what I love about the Lollipop…

For one, the design is pretty cool. Right now, we have it attached directly to Kaiden’s Pack n’ Play, but when he’s older, we can attach it to the wall or put it higher up somewhere and out of reach.

The other feature I love is there’s a live feed linked directly via an app to your phone and/or iPad. So for example, when my sister watched him one night, Vishnu was able to set up the app on her phone and she checked in on him as needed. This also means when we’re not home, we can see how he’s doing. Creepy? A little. Useful? Absolutely!

While we haven’t used any other kinds of monitors, I’ve caught glimpses of what my friends use, and I must say, the picture quality with the Lollipop is so clear. I love this because it means no guesswork when we hear Kaiden crying. There’s also no guesswork because of the cry detection feature where we’re alerted whenever Kaiden cries.

Other features we don’t use often but are nice to have include push to talk and remote music playing. With Kaiden, I think he’d be even more frustrated hearing our voices but not seeing us, so I tend not to talk to him through the monitor. We have, however, played classical music for him, which was nice because it doesn’t require an extra device.

If you’re interested in monitoring things like temperature, humidity, and air quality, you can purchase an additional sensor and track via the app. We decided not to go down that route, but it’s nice to have the option in case we change our minds in the future.

In terms of possible cons, I would say the price may be a detractor for some (it’s a bit of an investment), as well as the fact that good internet access must be available for this monitor to work.

Overall, we’re very happy with this monumental (kidding!) decision and would definitely recommend the Lollipop to friends, family, and internet strangers!

My Latest Kitchen Gadget Obsession – The Instant Pot

written by Parita 6 Comments

If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook, you know I’m OBSESSED with the Instant Pot (IP). Like sometimes it’s all I want to talk about. The tool itself, great blogs to follow for recipes, recipes I’ve tried, etc. It’s all about the IP here in the MIS household. Even Vishnu’s on board and excited!

If you already own an IP, you’re likely obsessed too and totally get why I can’t stop talking about/using this gadget. If you don’t or have never heard of the IP, I’m hoping you’re like, “TELL ME MORE, PAR!”

Because that’s exactly what I’m about to do…

First and foremost, you can’t beat the price. Now that I own one, I’m surprised it isn’t more expensive. The normal price is ~$99, but I’ve found the IP discounted on Amazon a couple of times in the past few months.

Growing up, my mom’s traditional pressure cooker was a staple in our house. I still remember counting ‘whistles!’ I also remember not feeling safe around that thing. Almost as if was going to burst open in any minute. The IP is different. It’s easier and safe to use. No more counting whistles or running to turn off the stove and running away as quickly as possible.

So here’s the thing. The name is a little deceiving. I really thought my meals would be as close to ‘instant’ as possible. What I didn’t think about was the ‘come to pressure’ time and the ‘release’ time. So yes, while the actual cooking time for most foods is short (chicken thighs cook in 8 minutes!), when you add in everything else, it’s not really that instant. BUT, I do love the fact that I can turn it on and walk away. No more babysitting a meal while it simmers away on the stovetop.

A couple of other features I love include the saute and slower cooker options. With the saute function, I can saute my veggies, brown my meats, etc. before pressure cooking…all with the same tool! There’s no need to use multiple pots and pans. And with the slow cooker function, you can literally give away/donate your standalone tool and just use the IP.

The thing that Vishnu loves most about the IP is that it locks in flavor, especially when it comes to meat dishes. For example, he always marvels at how flavorful the chicken thighs are in the chicken curry. “How can it taste like this when it only cooks for eight minutes.”

One of my favorite things about the IP is that it’s a breeze to clean. The internal pot is like any other steel pot, and you clean it (along with the other parts) like you would anything else.

Something else I love is that it’s the perfect tool for meal prep Sunday. I can easily make two dishes for the week along with rice if needed and be good to go! Most IP meals don’t require much prep, and some are even chop/pour and dump…makes a time consuming task less so!

Finally, with this gadget being relatively new, I was surprised to find so many blogs/cookbooks dedicated to IP meals. There’s a high likely hood that if you Google “Instant Pot + [insert your favorite meal],” you’ll find something.

With that being said, here are some of my go to blogs for IP recipes along with a few recipes we absolutely love…

Indian meals
My Heart Beets
Piping Pot Curry
Ministry of Curry

Other cuisines
Dad Cooks Dinner
Peas and Crayons

Recipe love
Pressure cooker mac n’ cheese
Vegetarian lentil tortilla soup
Instant Pot creamy tomato soup
Instant Pot Saag
Instant Pot Dal Makhani
Instant Pot Butter Chicken (MofC)
Instant Pot Butter Chicken (MHB)

P.S. When it comes to the Instant Pot, you have a lot of choices with regard to size. We own the 6 quart one and find that it’s perfect for the meals we make (the 8 would be too large for us!).

No portion of this post is sponsored. However, there are affiliate links included. There is no extra cost to you, but I do receive a small commission on anything you buy through my links. Thank you for reading and supporting My Inner Shakti!

Alleviating Swollen Pregnancy Feet and Back Pain

written by Parita Leave a Comment

Looking back on the past 34 weeks, I really can’t complain too much. No morning sickness, no food aversions, no headaches, etc. Just a growing belly.

With that being said, a growing pregnant belly can and does pose a couple of challenges – lower back pain and swollen feet/ankles being two big ones. Both of which are super common and nothing to write home about if you know what I mean.

Before I share more about a couple of products that are truly helping to alleviate my back pain and swelling, please note that any and all symptoms should be discussed with your doctor. Pregnancy is not the time to self-diagnose.

Swollen Pregnancy Feet

Ok, so I didn’t self-diagnose, but when my feet first started swelling, I did ask Vishnu what he thought. He said to bring it up at my next prenatal appointment and to start wearing compression socks in the meantime. Of course, me being me, I didn’t rush to Amazon to buy said socks. When I was still complaining about the on again off again swelling, Vishnu took matters into his own hands and bought me not one, not two, but SIX pairs of socks!

While they’re definitely not super stylish, I can honestly say that these socks have alleviated my swollen feet and ankles. Trust me, I’ve put the compression socks theory to the test. For example, I forgot to take them with me to Atlanta and my feet were swollen for the duration of my trip. Not fun at all! I didn’t make that mistake when we went to Scottsdale and took all six pairs with me! Annnnd…no swollen feet…at all! Similar situations have happened locally where I sometimes forget to wear the socks, and I end up with elephant feet. But take the same situation + compression socks and no swelling. Good call, Vishnu, good call!

Pregnancy Back Pain

My back pain started fairly early on but usually only reared its ugly head at night. I tried everything to help lower the pain and increase my sleep – a pregnancy pillow, extra regular pillows…everything.

Once again, Vishnu told me to talk to my doctor about the pain and also suggested that I start wearing a maternity belt in the meantime. What a genius! This belt helps with my nighttime back pain and also helps alleviate the pain that’s started popping up while doing normal household things. In fact, I don’t think I could’ve made it through our move without it. While my body ached afterwards, my back was ok!

I have a feeling this belt is going to be my BFF for the next 6ish weeks as my nighttime back pain starts to dissipate (it’s actually getting better!) and my daytime back pain revs up.

All I can say is HOME STRETCHHHHHHHHHHHH! We’re almost at the finish line!