Lifestyle Archives - A Winsome Life

[Review]- Flower Chimp Singapore – Cake Explosion Gift Box

By delta March 4, 2024

In our search for a unique and memorable gift idea for Jacob’s 2nd birthday, we found out about Flower Chimp Singapore’s Cake Explosion Gift Box and we thought it might be a delightful surprise that not only brings the joy of celebration but also adds a delectable treat, creating an experience that goes beyond the ordinary.

The ability to personalise the contents of this gift box is a standout feature. It allowed us to curate a truly special and unique present for Jacob. The anticipation built when he unwrapped the box, and what unfolded was nothing short of magical. The Flying Butterflies took flight, creating an enchanting moment that added a touch of wonder to the entire experience.

Beyond the visual appeal, the Cake Explosion Gift Box delights the taste buds with a delectable treat. The inclusion of a sweet surprise adds another layer to the overall experience. It’s a thoughtful addition that ensures the celebration is not only visually stunning but also indulgently delicious.

The versatility of the Cake Explosion Gift Box makes it adapt beautifully for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or any other special event. The ability to customise the contents ensures that each box is a reflection of the recipient’s personality and interests.

Say goodbye to mundane gifts and welcome a wonderfully sweet and whimsical bang into your celebrations with the Cake Explosion Gift Box.

Skyline Luge Singapore introduces Ride the Beat, a new night-time musical extravaganza with captivating music and dazzling illuminated tracks

By delta January 9, 2024

The Singapore outpost becomes the world’s first Skyline Luge to transform into a musical extravaganza, with monthly musical themes and special guest DJ playlists to create a fresh and immersive experience for all

Night owls, music lovers and thrill-seekers, this one’s for you! Skyline Luge Singapore — one of Sentosa’s most beloved and popular attractions — is proud to unveil Ride the Beat, a new sensory experience that brings the well-known Skyline Luge experience to a whole new level of fun! As the first Skyline Luge site in the world to bring music onto its exhilarating tracks, Ride the Beat is a new experience that invites you to go on a musical joyride. Ride the soundwaves and zip down dazzling neon-lined tracks to the rhythm of popular music and beats every Friday and Saturday from 7pm – 9pm!

The launch of Ride the Beat will also be accompanied by a collaboration with AFTERLIFE by AIKO Collective, the nightlife arm of one of Singapore’s hottest new event agencies. EDM expert DJ Hamez brings the club to the tracks with a specially curated playlist that will be played throughout February, setting the mood for a rager of a night that will hype up your rides and have you grooving from pole position to the finish line!

Keep a look out for other exciting musical and DJ collaborations at Ride the Beat throughout the year, with rotating musical themes and DJs promising to keep the experience fresh every time.

Ride the Beat: A Mesmerising Fusion of Music, Lights and Action

Music is the heart of the new Ride the Beat experience! As you set off from the starting line, be enthralled by high-energy beats that amp up the dynamic rhythm of the ride. Whether it’s the pulsating bass that accentuates sharp turns, or the dynamic melodies that accompany smooth descents, each note becomes an integral part of the Ride the Beat experience — all with a visual feast of neon lights as your backdrop!

Pick your path and get set for an adrenaline-fueled ride through twists, turns and pure excitement! Skyline Luge Singapore offers 2.6km of downhill fun split between four thrilling Luge tracks. Each track has specially designed features that include curvy corners and exhilarating tunnels that will have you grinning from ear to ear. Choose between the Expedition Trail or the Jungle Trail for the best musical experience during your ride. The moment you push off from the starting point to embark on your chosen track, you’re instantly enveloped in a sensory symphony that electrifies the air. The neon-lit tracks carve through the darkness, casting a mesmerising glow that guides your descent.

Since its opening in 2005, Skyline Luge has become one of Sentosa’s most beloved attractions by both tourists and locals alike. In the 19 years since its opening, the attraction

has undergone continual upgrading and improvements to ensure that each visit is not just fun, but also promises a fresh and exhilarating ride each time. Now, with an exciting musical twist infused into the famous attraction, Ride the Beat gives visitors and locals alike a whole new immersive and dynamic experience that they’ll keep coming back for — once is never enough!

Exclusive Promotions with Shake Shack

In collaboration with Shake Shack’s Sentosa outlet, discover exciting launch promotions from 1 February to 30 April to complete your memorable evening at Skyline Luge!

Get a free box of Cheese Fries from Shake Shack with every purchase of Night Luge’s 3 Ride Combo. Grab your friends and create unforgettable memories at Sentosa with adrenaline-pumping rides and beachside gatherings.

Ticketing Information

Tickets to Night Luge Ride the Beat are now available for sale at Skyline Luge’s Ticketing Counter — or skip the queue and purchase tickets from the official Skyline Luge site here!

Night Luge Ride the Beat Prices
Individual – Flexi	$36

The Ride the Beat experience transforms the Skyline Luge as you know and love it into a thrilling visual and auditory experience. Gather your friends together, because Ride the Beat promises to be a breathtakingly fun and unforgettable experience!

For more information and for the latest updates on the Night Luge Ride the Beat, visit Skyline Luge Singapore’s website here.

It’s All About Being Human

By delta June 9, 2023

I honestly believe that in life, there is no way you can avoid interacting with another human being.

Humans come in all shapes and sizes, with different personalities, preferences, interests, motivations, and behaviours.

I always tell people that, “our emotions drive our actions“. How we feel about something influences the way we react or act, even in the case of non-action. Non-action does not simply mean doing nothing; it refers to consciously choosing not to do something. Therefore, the decision-making process to not take action is, in itself, an action.

The reason I decided to further my study in the area of developmental psychology is to unravel the mysteries of human behaviour at every stage of life.

The way a child acts and thinks is vastly different from how a teenager would, just as it differs from an adult or an elderly person.

At each stage of our lives, we have different needs, wants, and priorities. Some of these are shaped by our upbringing, the place where we live, our personal and family beliefs, religion, culture, and interactions with friends and other people.

If there’s one takeaway from this article, it would be that, “every story has two sides, just like a coin“. Whether you are left-brained or right-brained, left-handed or right-handed, there are varying degrees to which you lean towards one side. The ideal position is finding balance and harmony in the middle or center. Is it always possible to achieve this? Yes, but it requires time, effort, and a little bit of mindfulness i.e. being aware of your emotions and acknowledging the thoughts that arise.

Let’s consider some examples, if you’re feeling happy because you just received a promotion, you can either choose to indulge and reward yourself with a good meal, or you can choose to express gratitude to the people (colleagues, bosses, family) who made your promotion possible. If you’re feeling sad because you’ve been laid off, you can either choose to wallow in sorrow or see it as an opportunity for positive change.

Life is full of examples where our emotions and actions intersect. Understanding and embracing our humanity means recognising that there are different perspectives and choices available to us in every situation. It’s through self-awareness, empathy, and open-mindedness that we can navigate the complexities of human interaction and find the balance and harmony we seek.

Being human means acknowledging and embracing our emotions, thoughts, and behaviours, as well as recognising the diversity and complexity of others. By striving for balance, practicing mindfulness, and being open to different perspectives, we can enhance our relationships, personal growth, and overall well-being. Remember, it’s all about being human.

This article is written by Melvin Lee, an accomplished education management professional with over 11 years of experience in leadership roles. With a strong academic background, he holds an EMBA (Executive Master of Business Administration) and possess relevant credentials in adult training and education, as well as career coaching. Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in developmental psychology, he brings a unique perspective to understanding human behaviour at various stages of life. His expertise in education management, coupled with his passion for personal and professional development, enables him to offer valuable insights into fostering harmonious interactions. Through his thought-provoking writings, Melvin encourages readers to embrace their humanity, find balance, and navigate life’s complexities with mindfulness and empathy.

3 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Maid in Singapore

By delta June 1, 2023

Having a maid take care of household chores gives you more time to focus on more important things, like working on your personal and professional improvement, spending time with your family, or enjoying leisurely pursuits. However, finding a good maid that suits your household’s needs can be a tedious process.

Many Singaporean families struggle to find a helper who’s a good fit with their household, and as such, they tend to rely on a maid agency Singapore families trust to help them with the task. That being said, it’s important to have awareness of some of the mistakes that could get you stuck in the hiring process in the first place. Here are some of them:

Not Complying with the Rules Set by the Ministry of Manpower for Employers

In Singapore, there are two primary ways you can hire a maid: hiring a maid directly or through a maid agency. Choosing to hire a maid directly has several benefits; you have more control over the hiring process, you don’t have any agency fees to pay, and you’re able to build a good relationship with your maid from the start. But before you can even start the process of hiring a maid, you need to comply with the requirements set by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) first.

According to the MOM, you’re qualified to be an employer if you meet the following criteria:

You’re 21 years old and above
You’re not an undischarged bankrupt
You have the mental capacity to fully understand your roles and duties as an employer

Since maids in Singapore must live with their employers, you’re given a large set of responsibilities to ensure the safety and well-being of your maid. As such, you need to be of sound mind and have the financial capacity to support your maid’s compensation and basic needs.

If you’re hiring a maid for the first time, you need to attend the Employer Orientation Programme (EOP). This 3-hour programme is designed to help you understand your role and responsibilities as an employer of a foreign domestic worker. Attending the EOP in a classroom will cost you around 35 SGD to 60 SGD. Attending the programme online, on the other hand, will cost you 35 SGD.

Being Unfamiliar with a Singapore’s Work Permit Requirements for Maids

The MOM also created a list of requirements maids need to fulfil for them to receive their work permits. The requirements are as follows:

Maids have to be female (male maids are allowed under extremely rare cases and are usually hired to take care of the male elderly)
Maids must be between 23 and 50 years old
Maids must at least have eight years of formal education
Maids must come from approved nations, such as Bangladesh, Cambodia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, and Thailand.
Maids must not be on a tourist visa or sponsored by another employer

If you plan to hire a maid directly, you should familiarise yourself with these requirements. Otherwise, you could be fined between SGD 5,000 and SGD 30,000, imprisoned for up to 1 year, or both if you’re caught employing a foreign domestic helper without a valid work permit.

You should also be knowledgeable about the basic duties of a foreign domestic helper. Generally, a maid is tasked to do the cleaning, shopping, cooking, and washing and ironing of clothes. They can also take care of children, elderly family members, and pets. If you deploy your maid to do work that’s outside their job description, you could face legal repercussions.

Choosing a Maid Agency That Offers Rates That Are Too Good to Be True

Working with a maid agency is a more convenient solution if you don’t have the time or experience to hire a foreign domestic helper. Agencies have a large selection of highly trained and skilled maids who can perform their duties with great efficiency. As such, you’ll have an easier and quicker time finding a maid. If you’re having trouble choosing a maid, the agency will gladly match you with a maid that fits your requirements. However, most agencies will charge you between 1,000 SGD to 3,000 SGD for their services. This fee usually includes the cost of your maid’s insurance, airfare, and application.

To save money, some Singaporeans would rather look for an agency that offers cheaper rates. Though there’s nothing wrong with finding ways to cut your expenses, choosing an agency that offers services for a price that’s too good to be true isn’t the ideal compromise. Agencies that charge lower fees typically don’t have the best candidates to offer or have a history of providing their clients with inefficient applicants. They also might not provide their domestic helpers with proper training, medical care, insurance, or security bonds.

You want to hire a maid because you want your home, kids, and elderly family members to be well taken care of. Therefore, it’s in your best interest to work with a dependable agency that can help you get your money’s worth. To find a maid agency that offers excellent services at a reasonable price range, it’s good to do some research. You might also want to visit the agencies’ websites to check their legitimacy and to read comments from their previous customers.

Hiring a maid in Singapore can be challenging, and many Singaporeans may find themselves making mistakes that can lengthen the hiring process. However, if you familiarise yourself with these three common mistakes, you can save yourself the hassle of encountering problems when hiring directly or through an agency.

6 Reasons to Harness the Power of Lifelong Learning

By delta May 24, 2023

The job market nowadays is faster-paced and more competitive than ever. With the different ways and the speed at which technology evolves, entire industries can transform in the blink of an eye. If you want to be able to keep up, then you need to invest more in yourself. Specifically, you need to make sure that your skills and knowledge are up to par with the latest trends, standards, and requirements of your industry.

One way to do this is to pursue lifelong learning. After all, learning doesn’t just happen within the classroom, and it certainly doesn’t stop after you finish school. Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities to pick up new skills and hone what you already know. For example, if you live in Singapore, you can enrol in SkillsFuture credit courses in a variety of fields that include engineering, business, infocomm technology, and even culinary arts. You can also take up new hobbies, learn a new language, or get certified in first aid.

Apart from keeping up with the times, there are many more reasons to embrace lifelong learning. Here are just a few:

Future-Proofing Your Career

As mentioned earlier, industries evolve at a breakneck pace nowadays. The best practices today may not necessarily be the best practices tomorrow; the same can be said about in-demand skills. If you aren’t consistently working towards improving and increasing your competencies, you’ll definitely be left behind by your peers.

Through lifelong learning, you’ll be able to future-proof your career. Besides making you a valuable asset to your organisation, your commitment to continuous self-development also shows your employer that you are someone who’s worth keeping around.

Broadening Your Job Options

After working for years in a specific field, there may come a time when you feel like it’s time for a change. However, hopping from one role to another might not be as simple as you think it is. For one, there are plenty of qualified individuals vying for limited positions; this can make it difficult for you to stand out.

If you enrol in training programmes to learn new skills, especially industry-specific and transferable ones, it will be easier for you to transition into a new job. You’ll also have an easier time exploring opportunities in other industries, should you want a completely new career.

Expanding Your Professional Network

When you invest your time in lifelong learning, you’ll get to know more people outside of your usual circle of coworkers and industry colleagues. From your instructors to your fellow learners, you can expand your professional network considerably through continuing education. This will be quite valuable for your social life, as well as your future job prospects.

Getting to know other people can also help you in cultivating new ideas and encountering fresh perspectives. Both of these can further broaden your horizons, not just in terms of your career but also life in general.

Acquiring and Developing Soft Skills

Most jobs require highly specific skills, such as operating heavy machinery or writing a computer programme. However, if you want to truly advance in your chosen career, you also need to develop a variety of soft skills like the following:

Critical thinking
Creativity
Time management
Problem solving
Creativity
Conflict management
Leadership
Communication

Through lifelong learning, you can acquire and develop plenty of soft skills. These can then help you build character, as well as help you achieve your professional goals. What’s even better is that all of these soft skills are also transferable. As such, if ever you want to change career paths sometime in the future, your transition will be much smoother.

Keeping Your Brain Healthy

While the human brain isn’t actually a muscle, it still requires exercise to keep it in good shape. You can do this through many different ways, including solving puzzles or reading more books. If you want to hit two proverbial birds with one stone, however, you can enrol in a certification training course or any other lifelong learning programme you prefer.

By doing so, not only will you be able to improve your memory and strengthen your cognitive function, but you will also be able to boost your career prospects.

Feeling More Confident, Fulfilled, and Motivated

Last but certainly not least, lifelong learning can help you feel better about yourself. First, mastering new skills and learning new things boosts your self-confidence and sense of self-worth. When you know you can do your job well and exceed expectations, you’ll feel more confident and become a better, more efficient worker.

What’s more, lifelong learning can increase your sense of self-fulfilment and satisfaction. When you finish a course and are able to apply what you’ve learned at work, you feel proud about what you’ve accomplished. This feeling can then spill over to other aspects of your life, helping you feel even happier with your life progress.

As the saying goes, it’s never too late to learn. No matter how old you are or how far along you are in your career journey, there’s always room for growth. Consider all of the above benefits and you might just be convinced to start harnessing the power of lifelong learning today.

A Retrospective Look at Our Recent Trip to Hong Kong Trip 2023

By delta March 23, 2023

Hong Kong, a vibrant city known for its bustling streets, skyscrapers, and delicious cuisine, is a must-visit destination for travellers. With the covid restrictions in Hong Kong eased, my family and I seized the opportunity to explore this fascinating city and enjoyed its unique blend of cultures, history, and modernity.

We chose to fly with Singapore Airlines, and it was a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The flight was smooth, with friendly and attentive service from the flight attendants. The in-flight entertainment was excellent, with a wide selection of movies, TV shows, and games to choose from. As we brought our children along for the trip to Hong Kong, we did not have the luxury of time to enjoy the in-flight entertainment.

Singapore Airlines offers a range of services and amenities for travellers with children to make the flight more comfortable and enjoyable for both kids and parents. These include kid-friendly meals, entertainment options, and activity kits with games and toys to keep little ones occupied during the flight. There are also baby changing facilities on board, and the crew is happy to assist with any special requests, such as heating up baby food or providing extra blankets and pillows.

Throughout our trip, we stayed at the Royal Plaza Hotel, which is located in the heart of Mong Kok. This luxurious hotel offers spacious rooms with stunning city views and amenities, including a fitness centre, swimming pool, and multiple dining options. The hotel’s central location made it easy to explore the city, and we like how convenient and accessible it is.

One of the attractions we visited in Hong Kong was the Cup Noodles Museum. Located in the Kowloon Bay area, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and production of one of the world’s most popular instant noodle brands. We even created our custom cup noodles to take home as souvenirs. However, if you have been to the Cup Noodles Museum in Japan, you might consider giving this a miss.

Another highlight of our trip was exploring the vibrant Mong Kok Street. This bustling district is famous for its street markets, which sell everything from clothes and electronics to street food and souvenirs. We spent hours wandering through the narrow alleyways, admiring the colourful neon signs and soaking up the lively atmosphere.

We also visited Fung Ying Seen Koon temple. The temple is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit, offering a unique glimpse into Hong Kong’s rich spiritual traditions. Nestled amid lush greenery, Fung Ying Seen Koon features intricate architecture and artwork. We enjoyed the peaceful ambience and the chance to learn more about the history and traditions of Taoism.

Our trip to Hong Kong has been a memorable and enriching one. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or delicious food, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Travelling with two young kiddos was fun but tiring. Here are some tips that we have if you’re planning to travel to Hong Kong with young children:

Pack plenty of snacks and drinks to keep your children fueled throughout the day. Hong Kong is a busy city, and you may find yourself on the go for hours at a time.
Bring comfortable shoes and clothing for both you and your children. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, and the weather can be hot and humid.
Consider bringing a stroller or carrier for younger children. Hong Kong’s streets can be crowded and uneven, so it’s important to have a safe and comfortable way to transport your child.
Plan your itinerary with your children’s interests and energy levels in mind. Hong Kong has a lot to offer, but it’s important to pace yourself and prioritise the activities that your children will enjoy the most.

Psst. If you recently won yourself a round-trip Cathay Air Ticket to Hong Kong or planning a trip to Hong Kong this coming Easter, we have some exciting news for you!

Pirata Group, the city’s undisputed leader when it comes to memorable dining experiences, is taking things one step further with a variety of egg-citing promotions across all venues. From tandoor towers and unlimited sushi to all-you-can-eat chocolate dessert stations and limited-time Easter brunches where kids eat for free, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy before or after partaking in the many kid-friendly activities around town. So, hop to it and start making those Easter memories with Pirata Group’s guide to the best things to see, do and savour in Hong Kong this holiday season!

Central

Victoria Peak, otherwise known as The Peak, has always been a must-visit Hong Kong destination for its iconic views and historic funicular railway. After a major upgrade that was completed last year, The Peak Tram now offers an even more exciting and efficient experience with new, larger-capacity green-coloured tramcars and an array of entertainment zones showcasing the area’s intriguing history and wildlife. Once at The Peak, be sure to check out Monopoly Dreams, the first Monopoly-themed attraction in the world that features an array of AR and other interactive experiences. Then, make your way to Sky Terrace 428, which at 428m above sea level is the highest viewing platform in Hong Kong. From here, the whole family will be wowed by 360-degree panoramic views across the city and harbour, which are impressive morning, noon or night!

“SomeBunny Feed Me!” Easter brunch menus with free-flow champagne and all-you-can-enjoy chocolate buffet at Chaiwala & TokyoLima, 7–10 April 2023

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s just a quick tram ride back to Central for a special Easter-themed dining experience. Fans of modern Indian cuisine won’t want to miss Chaiwala’s “SomeBunny Feed Me!” brunch feast (HK$388pp, HK$398pp champagne free-flow, HK$198pp classic free-flow) complete with a trio of chaat for sharing, choice of vegetarian or mutton biryani, a tandoor tower and dosas for sharing, and choice of six curries. A children’s menu is also available for HK$50. For a taste of innovative Japanese and Peruvian fusion food, head a few blocks north to TokyoLima and its adventurous take on “SomeBunny Feed Me!” (HK$398pp, HK$398pp champagne free-flow, HK$198pp classic free-flow). Designed for sharing, the brunch feast begins with a selection of appetisers including causa and ceviche before moving on to the Weeknd Salad, Edamame Hummus and Pop Ki-Mo-Chi, and finishing with a choice of mains such as chicken katsu with aji panca rice or pan-fried mackerel with potato puree and Nikkei escabeche. Both brunch menus are available 7–10 April 2023 and include an extravagant all-you-can-enjoy chocolate buffet – so be sure to leave some room!

Sheung Wan

Tsim Sha Tsui & West Kowloon

Just a short ride on the Star Ferry or a quick trip on the MTR from Hong Kong Island and you’ll find yourself in the always-buzzing Tsim Sha Tsui commercial and entertainment district or the up-and-coming West Kowloon cultural district. Must-visits on this side of Victoria Harbour include the new M+ Museum showcasing some of the world’s foremost collections of 20th- and 21st-century visual culture. The Herzog & de Meuron-designed building and surrounding outdoor spaces are worth a visit even on their own. After admiring the architecture, budding builders should definitely check out Legoland Discovery Centre. The ultimate Lego indoor playground is designed for children ages 3-10 and features workshops, play areas and even Hong Kong’s top attractions built out of bricks. Finally, burn off any residual energy at Kids Kids Car indoor electric-vehicle driving playground. The 20,000 sq ft space has three different themed zones where kids can zoom around and even experience various occupations.

Enjoy limited-time Easter specials at Pici & The Pizza Project, 5–10 April 2023

Cap off your Kowloon adventures at neighbourhood Italian spot Pici, which from 5–10 April 2023 is offering two limited-time additions to everyone’s favourite pasta bar brunch. The new specials are available all day and include the lavish Truffle Carbonara (HK$190), a tagliatelle with black truffle, guanciale, pecorino and Japanese egg yolk; and the Coppa Malu (HK$140) a velvety mousse dessert for two made with 70% chocolate, whipped cream and almond meringue. The famous, much-loved Italian treats are available all around the city, with more branches in Lai Chi Kok, Sha Tin in the New Territories but also buzzing Causeway Bay, Wan Chai, and Central amongst other prime locations. Another must-try Italian Easter dining destination for the whole family is The Pizza Project in Central – check out the two limited-time specials: Down the Rabbit Hole (HK$160), a pizza with a red hot chili cheddar stuffed crust, testa di coppa, black garlic pesto and fior di latte; and Bu-Nana (HK$65), a sweet treat consisting of banana and chocolate ganache stuffed gnocco fritto, dusted with icing sugar.

Stanley

Tired of the hustle and bustle of the city? Let’s head over to Stanley for a lovely seaside stroll with your little ones. The Stanley Bay promenade is a picturesque boardwalk overlooking all the small boats parked at the bay – this is a scene you can’t find in other parts of Hong Kong. With a backdrop of colonial heritage buildings, lots of locals come here to walk their pets and enjoy a peaceful afternoon.

Looking for a seaside cafe to enjoy the view? Pirata has got you covered! Located on Stanley Main Street, Pane e Latte will celebrate Easter with spring specials across three weekends from 1–16 April. Feast on Bomboloni al Torroncino (HK$48), a nougat cream-filled doughnut covered in chocolate couverture; the Gnocchi di Pasqua (HK$158), a dish featuring spring vegetables, ricotta and poached eggs; and the Easter Egg (HK$78), a sweet treat made with lemon madeleine, strawberry jam and fromage blanc. A giant, eye-catching Easter basket and eggs will also be installed at the bakery for the ultimate holiday experience.

Don’t miss the limited-time Spring specials at Pane e Latte, 1–16 April 2023!

Easter is an incredible time to enjoy Hong Kong’s fine weather, fun attractions and friendly hospitality. Hop over to piratagroup.hk to start planning your mealtime celebrations and make this year’s holiday your most memorable one yet!

Singapore’s Leading Geroscience and Wellness Centre Regenosis Begins A New Dawn By Reversing Our Biological Age

By delta February 9, 2023

Disclaimer:

This article provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, or in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.

If you or any other person has a medical concern, you should consult with your healthcare provider or seek other professional medical treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something that you have read on this blog or in any linked materials.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.

The opinions and views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, health practice or other institution.

In 2019, it was reported that the life expectancy for the average Singaporean was 81.4 and 85.7 years for men and women respectively, making it among the highest in the world. However, this number does not take into account the quality of life of the elderly, which is more dependent on one’s health span – closely tied to biological age.

With the advancements in science and medicine over the years, ageing research has now entered an unprecedented new era. It has been long observed that the pace of ageing varies from person to person. This highlights a key concept that due to underlying biological mechanisms, biological age at an individual level can be separated from chronological age. The application of biological age as a measure of an individual’s health status offers new perspectives on the extension of both lifespan as well as healthspan. Unlike lifespan, which tabulates the number of years lived, healthspan is defined as the number of healthy years one lives.

Enter Regenosis, a leading geroscience and wellness centre in Singapore seeking to close the gap on fitness and nutrition literacy, such that everyone can self-sufficiently improve their healthspan and live their life to the fullest potential even in old age.

With their RealHealth programme, they go in-depth into understanding an individual’s current health, genetics and lifestyle habits and tailor a lifestyle plan according to their genetic and body composition. This includes close consultations with specialists to educate and advise on how best to adjust your lifestyle and ensure that is done in a sustainable manner such that in the long-term, individuals can continue keeping up even after the programme is over.

One big component of the RealHealth Programme is Rejuvant LifeTabs — a supplement that transforms the way we age by introducing Alpha-Ketogluterate (AKG) into our diet. AKG is a key molecule in the Krebs cycle, which determines the overall rate of the citric acid cycle of an organism and is responsible for most of our body’s energy needs. It is a nitrogen scavenger, a source of glutamate and glutamine that stimulates protein synthesis and inhibits protein degradation in muscles and enhances bone tissue formation. A central metabolic fuel for cells of the gastrointestinal tract as well, AKG has been proven safe and effective in multiple clinical applications – not only does it help in extending lifespan, AKG also prolongs healthspan by retarding the onset of age-related diseases and ailments (Wu et al., 2016).

Currently, Rejuvant LifeTabs with its use of Calcium-AKG is the only health supplement in the world to be clinically-proven to reverse biological age by 7 to 8 years (Shahmirzadi et al., 2020). Rejuvant LifeTabs does not exclusively cater to the elderly but rather to anyone who is looking to live life healthily, akin to their prime years, by boosting vitality and preventing age-related degenerative diseases which could plague one’s health in the future.

Distributed by Regenosis, Rejuvant LifeTabs boasts the culmination of twenty years of anti-ageing research by incorporating the use of LifeAKG. LifeAKG, Rejuvant’s proprietary, patent-pending, sustained-release formulation of AKG, is shown to provide more energy, better sleep, weight loss, bodybuilding effects, and even more youthful skin for its consumers. Additionally, whilst other supplements commonly use chemical ingredients like the “anti-ageing” drug rapamycin and metformin to produce similar age-reversal effects in experimental trials, there is a key difference – AKG is naturally made by our bodies, and it is already considered safe to consume by regulators. According to University of North Dakota ageing researcher Holly Brown-Borg, “The big thing about this (AKG) is that its safety profile is so good”.

Rejuvant LifeTabs are available for purchase on Shopee and come in Men’s and Women’s Formula.

Maintaining Healthy Bones and Joints with Traditional Chinese Medicine

By delta January 6, 2023

Disclaimer:

The opinions and views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, health practice or other institution.

As we age, our physical body undergo quite a fair bit of changes and for me personally, I noticed how difficult it could be to stand up after long periods of sitting down and inactivity. Even when stretching my legs and arms, I tend to pop/crack my joints to feel relaxed, and occasionally, I strain my neck and knees due to incorrect lifting methods (not weights in the gym but bags of groceries).

However, the worst feeling that one can ever experience is the occasional excruciating knee joint pain or ankle joint pain. So, why do we experience joint pain?

Joints form the connections between bones, providing support and helping us move. Any damage to the joints (from disease or injury) can interfere with movement and cause pain. Joint pain, fortunately (or not), is extremely common as we age. In a survey, about one-third of adults reported that they had experienced joint pain within the past 30 days. There are several causes of a painful and cracking joint, the most common being Osteoarthritis, which is similar to a “wear and tear” disease where the joints wear down due to age. Besides Osteoarthritis, there is also Rheumatoid Arthritis, an autoimmune disorder that happens when your body attacks its tissues, and also Bursitis, when sacs of fluid that help cushion our joints get inflamed. Sports injuries, strains, and sprains do contribute to joint pains as well.

Most recently, a survey in Singapore shows that 73% of Singaporeans are at risk of knee Osteoarthritis due to lifestyle habits. As much as it is commonly believed that the cracking sounds on our knees are normal as we age, they might not be.

To temporarily curb the pain, most people seek temporary solutions such as sports massage and joint compressions. However, massage and compression are temporary treatments for arthritis which are often short-lived. This is because the bone and joints lack the necessary nourishment to strengthen the bone and joint.

Introducing IngreLife Pro-Bone Plus Extra Capsules – a bone and joint health supplement manufactured and sold by Science Arts Co Pte Ltd that contains Chondroitin Sulfate, Composite Bone Collagen, and MSM. This unique formulation can combat bad joints by enhancing the health of bones and joints and nourishing the kidney.

IngreLife Pro-Bone Plus Extra Capsule’s formula focuses on relieving bone and joint pain, strengthening joints and improving bone health by promoting the deposition and absorption of calcium and the strength of bone joints. The formula also supports healthy bone density and regulates bone cells to maintain strong bones.

The capsule not only strengthens the bone and joint, but it also nourishes the kidney. The product is formulated based on a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory that human muscles and bones are closely related to the kidney. Hence, the reason for the age-old saying “the kidney governs bones”. Thus, nourishing the kidney helps to strengthen the bones and muscles.

Whether you struggle with cracks all over your joints or just want to build up bone and joint health, try out IngreLife Pro-Bone Plus Extra Capsules to experience its effectiveness.

IngreLife Pro-Bone Plus Extra Capsules are available at KEYI outlets, Yue Hwa Chinese Products, and selected Chinese medical halls. Alternatively, the capsules can be purchased directly from Science Arts’s online store via this link.

About Science Arts Co Pte Ltd:

Science Arts is a Singapore-grown holistic health and wellness brand that has been promoting Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) healthcare for over 50 years.

Our Experience at The Great Bay Fiesta

By delta December 8, 2022

The Show Master, a new blockbuster entertainment arm by Uncle Ringo, revives our festive cheer with a bang after a three-year hiatus with The Great Bay Fiesta from 1 December 2022 to 1 January 2023 at the Bayfront Event Space.

The Great Bay Fiesta, presented by Trip.com, is held in conjunction with Marina Bay Singapore Countdown 2023, presented by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). Open daily from 1 pm to 10 pm, this event spans over 20,000 sqm at the Bayfront Event Space with a lineup of merrymaking activities clustered into four main event segments – The Great Cirque de Cascades, The Great World Carnival, The Great Food Fiesta, and Ice Magic: The Great Fantasy on Ice.

We brought our two kiddos to check out the latest happenings at The Great Bay Fiesta, and it was unfortunate that the weather wasn’t on our side. It poured quite heavily in the afternoon, but thankfully, the rain subsided, and all that was left was drizzles. The first thing we checked out was The Great World Carnival by Uncle Ringo.

Apart from the usual carnival games where carnival-goers can have a go at winning mega-sized plushies; classic rides like the Big Carousel, Bumper Car, and Pirate Ship are also available for the thrillseekers. Mikayla rode the Big Carousel, and it was the only ride she took because she did not meet the minimum height requirements for the other rides. In case you are wondering, a ride on the Big Carousel costs $6. We noticed that many other rides were not in operation when we were there, and given the bad weather, the giant inflatables were a no-go for us as it was “flooded” with rainwater, and we did not pack any spare clothes for the kiddos.

Something different from the regular rides and games was an experiential inflatable playland reimagined and redesigned from one of OpenSea’s renowned projects, Prime Ape Planet. This is Uncle Ringo’s first foray into the web3 landscape to explore an omnichannel integrated experience for its visitors using the NFT IP space. If there were some utility that Prime Ape Planet’s NFT holders could take advantage of at The Great World Carnival, we would have found it super interesting and even more newsworthy, but it was interesting to see a giant inflatable that is designed after a popular NFT collection.

To enter The Great World Carnival, you will need a Carnival Admission Ticket that will cost SGD$10, which comes with SGD$5 Carnival Credits.

As a strategic partner of the annual SG Cares Giving Week, The Show Master is proud to announce that The Great Bay Fiesta will be the main Giving Hub throughout December. On four consecutive Tuesdays, i.e. 6, 13, 20, and 27 December, the opening act of The Great Cirque des Cascades’ 7 PM shows will be performed by charities or non-profit organisations such as Breast Cancer Foundations, SASCO Khatib Active Ageing Centre, and more. The Show Master will also be donating 5% of the total revenue earned from their Tuesday 7 PM shows to the performing beneficiaries.

Before The Great Cirque des Cascades show, we went to The Great Food Fiesta to grab a quick dinner. There were many food options available, but we felt the prices were not wallet-friendly and the food quality (at least for the ones we had) was subpar. As some of the stores are serving Thai cuisine, including grilled meats, seafood and desserts (and were specially flown in from Thailand), this might explain why they are so pricey.

We ordered one serving of Pad Thai, one serving of octopus, one serving of fried sweet potato balls, and one serving of beer, and all these added up to SGD$34.50. For a carnival-styled setting (which is what we would also refer to as a street-hawker setting or food-festival kind of setting), the pricing was definitely on the high end.

After a quick dinner, we went to queue up to enter the climate-controlled 1,000-seat Big Top where The Great Cirque des Cascades was taking place.

Proudly presented by Gandey’s Circus, one of the best international circus acts the world has to offer, the 80-minute circus show features nine premium circus acts specially curated from all over Europe. The thrilling performances put us on the edge of our seats, and we were very glad that Jacob managed to take a nap during the show and did not kick up too much fuss. As for Mikayla, she was dancing away to the music and got very excited when she saw balloons in some of the acts.

If you have not been to a circus performance before and you have no plans to travel, The Great Cirque des Cascades is a good option to consider. For the best views, avoid booking the Standard Ticket. As seats are not numbered, do queue up early before the showtime so that you can secure the best spots. Bookings for The Great Cirque de Cascades tickets are now exclusively available at Trip.com.

Due to the lack of time, we did not check out the Ice Magic: The Great Fantasy on Ice, which is part of The Great Bay Fiesta and the biggest pop-up winter-themed attraction in Singapore. However, from what we know, tickets to Ice Magic: The Great Fantasy on Ice cost SGD$45 for an adult and SGD$35 for a child (aged 2 to 12). The Family Package for 2 adults and 2 children is worth considering as it costs just SGD$140.

This pretty much sums up our experience at The Great Bay Fiesta and if you have any thoughts about this event, feel free to share your comments with us too!

The Iconic ISETAN Momiji Matsuri Fair Returns to NEX from 18 – 30 October with an Array of Japanese Seasonal Flavours

By delta October 13, 2022

In Japan, autumn is said to be the best time for feasting due to the abundance of harvesting crops in the season. Known in Japan as “食欲の秋” (shokuyoku no aki) which translates to “appetising autumn”, there are plenty of delectable foods that you can only enjoy during this season – juicy persimmons, salt-grilled mackerel
pike and aromatic pine mushroom rice to name a few.

NEX, in collaboration with ISETAN, celebrates the rich deep flavours of autumn by bringing back the iconic ISETAN Momiji Matsuri Fair after a two-year hiatus. Shoppers can indulge in a smorgasbord of yatai delicacies, sweet treats and premium fresh produce from 25 renowned Japanese brands. Happening from 18 to 30 October, the fair will be held at NEX Atrium Level 1 where shoppers can look forward to various seasonal food flavours from Japan.

Here are some of the highlights of this year’s fairs to keep an eye out for.

Making their debut this year at the fair are heritage brands such as Kurikoma Chaya, TOKIO and KINOKUNIYA.

Kurikoma Chaya upholds their traditional-style appeal while connecting with the younger generation by appealing to their Instagram aesthetics with traditional sweets that elegantly incorporate a mix of colourful fruits and trendy elements. Their Fruit Mochi Cake is a very popular dumpling set that combines the well-balanced sweetness of specialty red bean paste and fresh seasonal fruits with mascarpone cream (5 sticks for S$25).

If you prefer something easy to eat on-the-go, TOKIO’s Banana Crepe is a delectable bundle of whipped cream and banana, and comes individually packed for your convenience (S$3/pc)! These sweet Japanese crepes are Harajuku’s most popular street food, and are sold with various fillings and toppings such as seasonal fruits. The 57 year old fruit parlour brand offers the freshest fruits and fruit products, be sure to try their famed Fruit Almond Pudding and Fruit Jello, available in mixed fruits and strawberry versions.

Another highlight to look out for is KINOKUNIYA’s signature American-style Apple Pie (S$24.90), a long-time bestseller since 1959. First established in 1910 as a fruit merchant in Aoyama Tokyo, KINOKUNIYA has since expanded and now houses 34 stores mainly in the Tokyo metropolitan, offering well-loved ready-to-eat foods and specialty bakes.

KINOKUNIYA’s signature American-style Apple Pie features a generous amount of Japanese apples with a hint of cinnamon, and a pie crust with a crisp texture. Warm it up in the toaster to bring out the robust flavours even more, and enjoy it with your favourite toppings such as vanilla ice cream, fruit or whipped cream!

Yatai Fare Not to be Missed

Enjoy Takoyaki by Nakayama Shokuhin (1 pkt of 6 pcs for S$8) — delicious grilled octopus balls made of wheat flour-based batter and filled with diced octopus from Hakata, Kyushu.

Topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, green laver and dried bonito flakes, this is one of Japan’s best-known street foods that you don’t want to miss out on.

Taste the essence of the sea with Ijima Shoten’s wide array of seafood items, such as octopus, scallops, squid and shellfish. Sweet and full of umami, the characteristic seafood from Kumamoto is served in both braised and deep-fried style (S$8.80 for 100g braised, S$7.80 for 100g deep-fried) – perfect for seafood lovers to indulge in.

Experience a piece of Japanese food culture with classic comfort foods such as Omurice (S$13.80 for one serving) and beef skewers (S$13) from Tekiya. Savoury fried rice flavoured with ketchup and topped with a thin layer of fluffy omelette, Omurice is a popular favourite amongst children and adults alike.

Premium Japanese Speciality Produce

nonomo brings you unique local produce from all over Japan by small lesser-known manufacturers ranging from region-specific agricultural produce, novel sweets and snacks and sake. The 157 year-old Dewatsuru sake brewery located in the southern part of Akita Prefecture boasts a quaintly designed cup sake. Apart from the small capacity which makes it easy for beginners to try sake, the Dewatsuru Junmai Sake Cup (180ml) is available in assorted designs that are perfect to be re-used as drinking glasses (S$13.90 per cup).

Dewatsuru Junmai Sake Cup 180ml Assorted

The Shio Koji (Salty Fermented Rice) Miso (S$30 for 450g) from Takazawa Jozo is a world-class all-purpose seasoning that goes well with any kind of cuisine. This miso is made from Koshihikari rice and water from Noto with traditional manufacturing methods, resulting in a deep and unique flavour.

Make sure to head down to NEX from 18 October to 30 October for a mouthwatering good time at this year’s fair!

Momiji Matsuri Fair Information

Dates:
18 October to 30 October 2022

Address:
NEX Atrium Level 1

Timing:
18 October – 12pm to 9pm
Sunday – Thursday – 10:30am to 9pm
Friday & Saturday – 10:30am to 9:30pm
30 October – 10:30am to 8pm

Lifestyle