I recently found what I would like to think is the best oat pancakes recipe. What I enjoy the most about this recipe is how easy it is to follow and how delicious the pancakes come out to be. These pancakes are also super healthy and versatile, and I would like to share this recipe with you.

You will need the following ingredients:

1 cup rolled oats;
1 cup milk, regular or non-dairy;
2 large eggs;
1 tablespoon butter, plus more for cooking;
1 tablespoon sugar;
2/3 cup flour;
2 teaspoons baking powder;
1/4 teaspoon salt;
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional);
or
2 teaspoons of cocoa powder (optional).

Firstly, you would need to whisk 1 cup of rolled oats and 1 cup of milk together in a large bowl. Let that stand for about 10 minutes for the oats to soften. Meanwhile, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and set it aside to cool.

After that, add the butter, 2 eggs, and 1 tablespoon of sugar to the oats, and whisk to combine. Add 2/3 cup of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or 2 teaspoons of cocoa powder, if you wish. Then whisk until just combined. Please do not overmix. Try to let the batter stand for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, heat your non-stick pan over medium-high heat.

After that, add 1 teaspoon butter to the pan and swirl to coat. Drop the batter into the pan in 2-tablespoon portions, cooking 3 at a time. Cook until bubbles appear on the surface, the edges look dry, and the bottoms are golden-brown for about 3 minutes. Flip the pancakes and cook until the other side is golden-brown, 2 to 3 minutes more.

Finally, transfer the pancakes to a warm oven or plate. Repeat cooking the remaining batter, using 1 teaspoon of butter for each batch.

Serve with some fruits (preferably berries) and add a drizzle of maple syrup, jam, or honey.

And there you have it, the perfect oat pancakes, enjoy!

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Growing up Catholic has made conversations about abortion rather uncomfortable for me. Surprisingly, the discomfort isn’t necessarily from the catholic church’s perspective on abortion laws but rather the fact that I consider myself a prominent human rights scholar who is avoiding an issue that clearly incites human rights violations. Truth is, I think I am scared of choosing a side. What if people from my church judge me for being on one side? What if my progressive feminist friends judge me for being on the other side? And what if I choose a side and end up regretting my decision?

These questions or rather fears pushed me to conduct research to consolidate my views on this topic, and the research made it so evident that whether I decide to choose a side or not, women and girls all over the world are, and will continuously be treated less than a human because they are not afforded abortion rights.

According to international human rights laws, denying women and girls access to abortion can amount to human rights violations such as the right to health, privacy and, in certain instances, the right to be free from cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment. Research also shows that preventing women and girls from accessing abortion has only increased the rates of unsafe abortions. Those who resort to unsafe abortions risk prosecution and punishment, including imprisonment, and some may face cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment such as the exclusion from vital post-abortion health care. Moreover, international human rights laws clearly indicate that decisions about your body are yours and yours alone. Therefore, forcing someone to carry an unwanted pregnancy or forcing them to undergo an unsafe abortion is a violation of their human rights, and it inevitably intensifies social and gender inequalities.

I don’t really want to give my final stance on abortion laws because I think my views are still evolving. However, I cannot deny, or rather continue to avoid, the fact that abortion bans are against the basic principles of international human rights laws. Essentially, governments should, as obligated by international law, create and develop domestic laws that respect, protect and fulfil the human rights of pregnant persons.

 Sources:

https://www.amnesty.org/en/what-we-do/sexual-and-reproductive-rights/abortion-facts/

https://www.ohchr.org/Documents/Issues/Women/WRGS/SexualHealth/INFO_Abortion_WEB.pdf

The post Let’s talk about Abortion bans and human rights violations appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

SheEvolves is a community of women brought together by a common purpose, to amplify the voices of Black and Brown African women and girls as the changemakers of what they want to see reflected in their lives, their families, and their communities (their world). SheEvolves seeks to increase the visibility, significance and legitimacy of Black and Brown African women and girls. And we need your help to do this! We are looking for writers, poets, and storytellers from all walks of life to help us amplify these voices. If you have a story, poem, recipe, idea or even a life perspective, we would love to hear it. Whether You are starting high school, university, a new job, setting up a business, starting or ending a relationship, becoming a parent, or even adopting a new lifestyle, we believe that Your story matters, Your voice matters, and You matter!

Send us an email on:

phindile@seedcom.org

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It is always wise to do research before introducing something new into your body or placing an object where it is not meant to be placed. This type of research should always be confirmed by a healthcare professional. I am not a healthcare professional. Therefore this article is purely based on research conducted through internet sources. The information I found is super interesting, and I wanted to share this information with you. Based on the research, there seems to be a recurrence of serval items that women should not insert in their vaginas. Here are a few of those recurring items:

1. Fruit and veggies

Many women try to substitute high-tech masturbation tools for fruits and veggies such as carrots or cucumbers, but this is a BAD idea. Firstly, the weird shapes and sizes of such fruits could remain stuck inside your vagina, resulting in a visit to the gynaecologist. Secondly, even the most well-washed and ‘sanitized’ fruits and veggies can contain bacteria, bugs, and pesticides which can cause serious medical problems. While certain parts of the female sexual organ can deal with a little bacteria, the vagina isn’t equipped to handle this, and you could end up with bacterial vaginosis (BV). Thirdly, should you wish to use such fruits and veggies in this regard, a condom could help protect you from bacteria, bugs and pesticides. Lastly, it is also important to note that sharp edges from certain fruits and veggies can potentially cut or damage your vaginal walls.

2. Whip cream and other sugar-based products

Whipped cream can easily get stuck and cause irritation and infection. Sugar can change the pH level of the vagina, causing bacterial yeast infections. Chocolate sauce and other sweet treats contain dyes and preservatives that can damage the sensitive skin and mucus membranes in the vagina. Essentially, it is not recommended to insert such treats into your vagina.

3. Yogurt

I was so shocked to hear that this, too, was not recommended. According to the research conducted, there is no beneficial effect of putting yoghurt directly into the vagina. These processed yoghurts can give you a yeast infection by disrupting your natural pH levels.

4. Garlic

I have always known Garlic to be an at-home remedy to cure yeast infection because of its antifungal properties. I haven’t used it myself, but I keep hearing it works wonders for yeast infections. However, according to the research conducted, using Garlic vaginally for a yeast infection is just a myth and one that could result in a painful experience. The oils in Garlic can irritate your vagina and worsen any present infections. Putting a clove of Garlic in your vagina can also expose you to bacteria present in soil, pesticides, or fertilizers.

5. Brush Handles

Even though some brush handles resemble toys meant to be used vaginally, it is important not to insert a brush handle into your vagina. Brushes are not made for this task and may have sharp edges, chemical finishes that may irritate the vagina or parts that could get stuck inside the vagina.

6. Perfume

Smelling nice down there is a common hygiene goal for most women, but perfume isn’t the way to go. Fragrances are often irritating to vaginas, resulting in inflammation, itchiness, pain, and even infections. Many perfumes also use an alcohol base, and these harsh chemicals can burn and disrupt your pH levels. If vaginal odour is a concern, a trip to your healthcare professional is recommended to check for any underlying issue.

The resources used for for my research: Source 1  and Source 2

The post What can and cannot go into your vagina appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

Being financially independent simply means earning an income that enables you to pay for what you want and need. Historically, black women have been disadvantaged economically. Most black women were expected to put their dreams and ambitions aside and rely on their partners, brothers and fathers to take care of them financially. However, black women now have opportunities to earn an income and take care of themselves. Although these opportunities are arguably limited and slightly unequal, I still think there is a more significant prospect of financial independence now than in previous years. Personally, as a black woman, I believe that financial independence is what got me a seat at the table. With this personal experience and some research I conducted, here is why I think it is so important for black women to be financially independent:

It empowers you to make your own decisions

It is statistically proven that black women who depend on their partners financially don’t have the power or authority to make big decisions in their relationships. It’s easy to find yourself in a situation where your partner dictates and controls the relationship because of your financial status. This makes it difficult for you to express your choices in your relationship.

Prevents abuse

Many women, particularly black women who experience abuse in their relationships find it even more difficult to leave if they are financially dependent on their partner. Being financially independent means you will be less likely to stay in an abusive situation out of circumstance and financial need.

You become self-reliant

Being financially independent means you can rely on yourself for most things. Having to wait on other people to take care of your needs and wants can get frustrating, and sometimes it can lead to humiliation. Being self-reliant doesn’t mean you never ask for help. It just means that you’re able to meet your immediate needs without having to ask for help.

Breaks generational cycles

Black women have been historically disadvantaged on an economic level. Being the first in your family to be financially independent will break generational cycles of financial lack, and it also means that you contribute towards creating cycles of generational wealth.

Your sense of self-worth increases

Money isn’t everything, but earning and choosing how to spend the money you make contributes to how you feel as a person. In other words, black women who are financially independent tend to be more confident and have a high self-esteem. When you work towards your financial independence, you get to appreciate and value your capabilities and strengths, which makes you feel more confident in who you are, and makes you love and appreciate yourself.

The post Why black women should be financially independent appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

1. What immaterial gift can I give myself this December?
2. What immaterial gift can I give to someone I love?
3. What is the greatest immaterial gift I’ve received this year? Why?
4. Whose gift of friendship do I most appreciate? Let them know!
5. Ask yourself: What do I want (e.g. validation, compassion, connection) from others that I can immediately begin to give myself?

These questions do not have a right or wrong answer, nor do they require an immediate response. Instead, these questions are meant to encourage you to reflect on the gifts that you already have and the gifts you would like to acquire for yourself and those you would like to give to others.

The post Bite Size: 5 Questions to reflect on this month appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

I believe that December is about hope, faith, showing appreciation and helping those in need. This manifests through giving, gifting, gratitude and generosity (G4), which is our theme for this month.

As a general rule, the G4 is what we do to show kindness to others and ourselves. And although the G4 generally seem synonymous or interchangeable, I have an opinion suggesting how they differ. From my experience, when I give my time, money, labour and extraordinary effort to someone or something that I genuinely care about, it cultivates love and kindness within me. That same love and kindness is what sustains my ability to give more generously and to embody a sense of gratitude in everything that I do.

On a personal note, giving and gifting played a massive role in boosting my self-esteem, destroying that “people pleasing” mentality, and helped me realise my self-worth. For me, I can confidently say that giving and gifting has become some of heights forms of self-care. Going beyond ourselves and stepping out of our comfort zones to serve others, to give to others has benefited me in more ways than I can ever imagine. From my experience, giving and gifting is meant to be a magical experience for both the recipient and the giver. So, when I give, I am reminded that showing kindness to others is a radical act of showing kindness to myself, and that is how the G4 resonates with me. How does it resonate with you? How can you make a difference this season of giving and gifting? How can your act of kindness change your life, and how do you want it to change the recipient’s life?

As we enter the month of December, join me as we inspire others and ourselves to show kindness through generous gifts. This can be done in any manner. For instance, you can choose to gift a family member a tangible gift, or you can give them an abstract and intangible gift such as your time, skill or talent – the giving and gifting list is endless. You can choose what works for you, and you can attach a personal intention to that choice.

As mentioned earlier, December is about hope, faith, showing appreciation and helping those in need. I am very well aware that December may also be challenging for many, where in addition to everything else that may be challenging, the G4 may also seems far from reach. This is either because some people feel as though they are in no position to give, while others may feel as though they are not worthy of receiving gifts. If you fall within this category, I would like to tell you that you are not alone. You are seen, you are heard, you are loved, and you are worthy. The same way the G4 contributed significantly towards transforming my mentaility is the same way I believe it can transform you too. I believe that giving, gifting, gratitude and generosity (G4) are superpowers that we all have, it is our birthright and cannot be taken away.

The post Editor’s Letter: December Highlights the G4 – Giving, Gifting, Gratitude and Generosity appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

Snorkelling has been on my bucket list for years now, but it has been motionless because I was never taught how to swim. So, on the one hand, snorkelling in the deep ocean, surrounded by beautiful sea creatures, has been a lifelong dream for me, but at the same, I have always been too embarrassed to admit that I am a 20 something-year-old woman who needs swimming lessons.

It became more and more evident that if I wanted to snorkel, I first needed to learn how to swim. So, about 3 weeks ago I enrolled in a swimming school for a couple of lessons. Taking this step was extremely challenging for me, but I did it anyway because I knew the power and blessings that would emerge from it. This step took me out of my comfort zone and enabled me to control my present actions to secure a better future. In other words, what I do now determines how my future will look like. So, the work I put in now, the sacrifices I make now, and the pains and struggles I go through now only set me up for the peace and success I want and deserve.

Since I started learning how to swim, I began to feel one step further towards turning my snorkelling dreams into a reality. So far, learning how to swim has given me so much more perspective on what I should and should not feel shameful about. It has taught me that it doesn’t matter how old I am – my dreams are valid. And no matter what happens along the way, I know that it is not too late to turn my dreams into a reality. I know this because I have the power to control the actions that lead towards making my  dreams come true. So this is what what “bossing up” looks like for me, What does it look like for you? Join me and share your bossing up story.

The post AT MY “BIG AGE” I still don’t know how to swim appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

As a doctoral (PhD) student in the field of law, there is so much pressure and expectations to write ‘excellently’. I recently fell into this ‘pressure trap’ which left me feeling discouraged, insecure, anxious and even amplified the unwanted imposter syndrome. The one thing I started implementing to address these challenges was to recite daily affirmations. In all honesty, I think that these affirmations have contributed significantly toward improving my writing, managing my writing anxiety and keeping me motivated and grounded. 

Here are 6 powerful writing affirmations that I have been reciting daily: 

• I am a successful black woman!
• I am a good writer!
• My ideas matter, and are worth putting down on paper!
• It is okay to make mistakes because I always learn from them. Writing is a learning process!
• Everyday, I have the energy to work on my thesis, and I look forward to writing sessions and doing what needs to be done to be productive!
• I can and I will finish my thesis! 

Do you have daily affirmations? 

The post Bite Size: 6 Powerful Affirmations to improve your writing appeared first on Sheevolves.world.

Growing up catholic has made conversations about abortion rather uncomfortable for me. Surprisingly, the discomfort isn’t necessarily from the catholic church’s perspective on abortion laws, but rather the fact that I consider myself as prominent human rights scholar who is avoiding an issue that clearly incites human rights violations. Truth is, I think I am scared of choosing a side. What if people from my church judge me for being on one side? What if my progressive feminist friends judge me for being on the other side? And what if I choose a side and end up regretting my decision?

These questions, or rather fears pushed me to conduct research to consolidate my views on this topic, and the research made it so evident that whether I decide to choose a side or not, woman and girls all over the world are, and will continuously be treated less than a human because they are not afforded abortion rights.

According to international human rights laws, denying women and girls access to abortion can amount to human rights violations such as the right to health, privacy and, in certain instances, the right to be free from cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment. Research shows that preventing women and girls from accessing abortion has only increased the rates of unsafe abortions. Those who resort to unsafe abortions risk prosecution and punishment, including imprisonment, and some may face cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment such as the exclusion from vital post-abortion health care. Moreover, international human rights laws clearly indicate that decisions about your body is yours and yours alone, therefore, forcing someone to carry an unwanted pregnancy, or forcing them to undergo an unsafe abortion is a violation of their human rights, and it inevitably intensifies social and gender inequalities.

I don’t really want to give my final stance on abortion laws because I think my views are still  evolving. However, I cannot deny, or rather continue to avoid the fact that abortion bans are against the basic principles of international human rights laws. Essentially, governments should, as obligated by international law, create and develop domestic laws that respect, protect and fulfil the human rights of pregnant persons.

Sources:

https://www.amnesty.org/en/what-we-do/sexual-and-reproductive-rights/abortion-facts/

https://www.ohchr.org/Documents/Issues/Women/WRGS/SexualHealth/INFO_Abortion_WEB.pdf

The post Abortion bans violates human rights laws appeared first on Sheevolves.world.