5 Free Classes To Take During Circuit Breaker Period

Learning new skills often take a toll on your time, effort, and money. Fortunately for you, the current circumstance has put time in your favor. Put it to good use by taking up one or two free online classes that will enrich your skills. Moreover, you can add this newly acquired information to your resume and get more chances of moving ahead.

#1: ACQUIRE A GOOGLE CERTIFICATE

Website: https://learndigital.withgoogle.com/digitalgarage

Did you know that you can get a be a Google-certified digital marketer without paying a cent? Well, Google’s Digital Garage allows you to take 26 structured topics from how to build your online shop to the meaning of web analytics. It is an online academy that lets you dive into the ABCs of digital marketing. Each topic has several videos that give you a run-down of the topic and short quizzes to test your understanding of each one.

You must complete every topic to attain the 26 badges. Then, you must pass the final MCQ quiz to become a Google-certified digital marketer! Having “Google” on your resume sure sounds beautiful in the eyes of any Singaporean office. Give it a try!

#2: BROWSE THROUGH COURSERA

Website: https://www.coursera.org/collections/popular-free-courses

Coursera has a plethora of free and paid classes taught by top instructors from some of the world’s best universities and educational institutions including Stanford, Penn, Johns Hopkins, Duke, Columbia, and Yale. You can earn degrees and certifications through this website.

Topics range from personal development to data science. Each course consists of videos, quizzes, projects, and more. You can earn certificates to qualify for your work or an upcoming promotion. Nonetheless, it is an efficient way to pass time.

#3: TRAIN IN MICROSOFT

Website: https://support.office.com

How many of you have put “proficient in Microsoft Office” in your resume? I am guilty myself. Howeover, there is a legitimate training grounds for Microsoft Office. Training includes unlocking functions of Word, Powerpoint, and Excel.

Simply watch the video lessons that will give you a step-by-step guide through all the possible functions of the Microsoft Office. This way, you can be a wiz at Microsoft Office.

#4: EARN A FACEBOOK BLUEPRINT

Website: https://www.facebook.com/business

Interestingly, Facebook has its own online course. Facebook Blueprint allows you to get a crash course on Facebook and Instagram advertising.

These courses span a variety of topics, so you can get your pick from knowing more about Facebook ads to knowing more about Facebook Live. Worry not about the length of the course as all topics are divided into bite-sized information explained through paragraphs and photographs. You will be rewarded with a downloadable certificate upon completion of each course.

#5: LEARN HOW TO ANIMATE

Website: https://www.khanacademy.org/partner-content/pixar

Last but not the least is Pixar In A Box. We are all familiar with the heartwarming animation films produced by Pixar. However, are you familiar with what goes on behind the scenes? In this free course, you will be able to learn the art of storytelling, animation, and hair stimulation directly from Pixar staff.

In a series of online video lessons, you will get to digest topics in simple language. You will be able to animate bouncing balls, build a swarm of robots, and make virtual fireworks explode. This collaboration between Pixar Animation Studios and Khan Academy is sponsored by Disney.

BONUS: NTUC LearningHub has partnered with GO1 to offer Singaporeans free online courses until May 31, 2020. This initiative was launched last April 11. Courses vary from Change Management to Data Analytics. These are designed for bite-sized learning, so you will not be overwhelmed. Learn at your own pace and your own schedule by visiting ntuc.mygo1.com.

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Relaxing Exercises To Practice While In Quarantine

As the number of COVID-19 positive patients shoot up, stricter rules have been implemented. Social distancing is greatly highlighted as Ministry of Health (MOH) advised Singaporeans to avoid holding and participating in social gatherings of more than 10 people. Social gatherings pertains to birthdays, weddings, funerals, wakes, and other private events. These efforts can help prevent the spread of the virus.

Apart from this, many people have been in self-quarantine. Staying at home for long periods of time can pose a significant challenge for remaining physically active. Sedentary lifestyle and low levels of physical activity can have negative effects on your mental health and quality of life.

It is normal to feel stressed during times of threatening health situations. To combat this, you must stimulate the “relaxation response,” through a technique first developed in the 1970s at Harvard Medical School by cardiologist Dr. Herbert Benson. The relaxation response is the “state of profound rest that can be elicited in many ways”.

Create a well of calm without breaking the bank by following these relaxation techniques.

#1: FOCUS ON YOUR BREATHING

The Breath Focus technique is a simple and powerful tool comprising of long, slow, and deep breaths. It is also known as belly or abdominal breathing. As you breathe, you take your mind off the distractions and concentrate on your breathing and its sensations. Notice how long you can inhale and how deep you can exhale. This technique is helpful for people with eating disorders. However, it may not be helpful for people with respiratory ailments or heart problems.

#2: PRACTICE GUIDED IMAGERY

Ever wondered what it is like to travel freely on whim again? Well, you can make that possible through guided imagery. Guided imagery is a technique where you envision being in a soothing place or experiencing a happy memory. It reinforces the positive thoughts and emotions associated to being in a particular instance or place. Simply search Guided Imagery on free calming apps or YouTube videos. Ensure that you choose a recording topic that has personal significance to you. Personally, I want to see myself playing in the beach and listening to its calm breeze.

#3: DO YOGA, QIGONG, OR TAI CHI

These three ancient disciplines combine rhythmic breathing with a series of flowing movements. Empty your mind as you focus on the physical aspects of these disciplines. Moreover, you will be able to enhance your flexibility and balance. Since I cannot practice Hot Yoga anymore, I delight myself with a couple of Yoga exercises found in YouTube. You will be surprised with the wealth and the variety of free Yoga, Qigong, and Tai Chi exercises available there. Choose a video length and a difficulty level that you are most comfortable in.

#4: MEDITATE WITH MINDFULNESS

One of the practices that has greatly helped me stay calm is Mindfulness Meditation. Mindfulness is the Psychological process of purposely bringing one’s attention to experiences occurring in the present moment without judgment, which one develops through the practice of meditation. As our thoughts continue to juggle, mindfulness meditation is easier said than done. Take it easy on yourself during your first trials. Research suggests that continued meditation is helpful for people with anxiety, depression, and pain.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

BONUS: Apart from these relaxing exercises that will not cost you a dime, you may take short active breaks throughout the day. Short bouts of physical activity add up! You can dance and play with your children or perform chores such as cleaning and gardening. There is no excuse to stay active at home!

Sources: 1 & 2

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Fancy Canned Goods And Instant Coffee Recipes To Keep You Company

As many of us are encapsulated in our own homes for quite some time, many shoppers have filled up their own pantries. Most flats have a wide array of tissue papers, disinfectant sprays, instant noodles, canned goods, and instant coffee sachets. It is best to put your own spin to your daily meals to stimulate your appetite.

Here are inexpensive ways to get creative with your canned goods and instant coffee options.

#1: SPAM MUSUBI

Last month, I dragged my significant other to a restaurant that serves Hawaiian cuisine. One of the dishes that we tried was the Spam Musubi. It is a popular snack that you can easily make in your own home. Simply gather these ingredients: white rice, nori, SPAM or luncheon meat, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sugar.

Follow the steps found in the video below. What I like about this dish is its fast preparation time and its rich flavors.

#2: CRISPY SPAM FINGERS

Believe me when I say that it tastes better than it sounds! This recipe goes a little outside of the box as it incorporates flour, eggs, and bread crumbs into the meat.
Firstly, you must drench your sliced SPAM or luncheon meat into a mixture of eggs, flour, and bread crumbs. Secondly, you must fry all these “fingers” until each one reaches a golden-brown color. Its exterior ensures that each bite packs a crunch! You can serve it with rice.

#3: TUNA MACARONI SALAD

Canned tuna is a pantry staple that can transform into easy dishes that can be served for family dinners and office lunches. Spice up your usual macaroni salad by adding canned tuna. For a protein-rich lunch that kids will love, you may create a tuna macaroni salad. Just add your sauteed tuna in a macaroni salad filled with creamy mayonnaise, pepper, and celery.

#4: CREAMY TUNA CARBONARA

Complete a wine night indoors by serving a plate of creamy pasta. To make your very own creamy tuna carbonara, you will need the following: spaghetti pasta, eggs, canned tuna, parsley, salt, Parmesan cheese, and ground pepper. Start by preparing the pasta.

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the package. Drain it and set it aside. To do your sauce, you must whisk the egg yolks and add Parmesan cheese. Stir in the black pepper and add some salt. Then, add this sauce to the cooked spaghetti. Lastly, you must incorporate the drained tuna. Garnish with more cheese and serve it hot!

#5: INSTANT ICED COFFEE

It only takes five minutes or less to create your own instant iced coffee. Raid your pantry to gather these ingredients: 3 teaspoons of instant coffee, cold water, ice, and 4 tablespoons of your favorite creamer (e.g., soy creamer).

Get your trusty glass and add the instant coffee and the creamer. Fill it with cold water and stir constantly to allow the mixture to dissolve. Add some ice cubes and you are good to go!

#6: DALGONA COFFEE

Currently, the Twitter-verse and the TikTok nation have been buzzing about the Dalgona Coffee. You have probably seen several videos of people making whipped coffee by mixing instant coffee, sugar, and water together. You read that right! You have to mix everything together using a whisk, a hand mixer, or a milk frother. The result is a fluffy and delicious whipped coffee that you can post on Instagram.

Follow the steps found on the video below to make your very own Dalgona Coffee from South Korea.

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5 Juice Recipes That Can Help Boost Your Immune System

Health is wealth! During these challenging times, your immune system is currently active. This means that you have to get a daily dose of vitamins and minerals to keep its performance into a maximum.

The following juice recipes are packed with essential nutrients to help you fight off common colds and flu.

#1: THE IMMUNITY-BOOSTING JUICE

Round up two peeled grapefruits, two cups of mango, an inch of ginger, four carrots, 1/4 teaspoon of ground turmeric, and a pinch of ground cayenne. Put all these in a food processor or a blender to create your juice. Then, drink up!

Let me discuss the benefits of these ingredients. Firstly, grapefruits are loaded with Vitamin C that aids in proper immune system functioning. Mangoes are loaded with Vitamin C and A as well as Bromelain. Bromelain helps reduce swelling and pain in the nose.

Thirdly, ginger helps to clear your sinuses and promotes healthy sweating as it contains plenty of antioxidants. Both turmeric and cayenne has anti-inflammatory properties. Lastly carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is an antioxidant that supports the body’s mucus membrane.

Image and Recipe Credits: thewanderlustkitchen.com/immune-boost-juice

#2: THE INFECTION-LOWERING JUICE

One of surefire ways to know what goes inside your body is to make it yourself. A frugal infection-lowering juice that you can make is a Tomato juice. The best part is that you do not have to own a juicer or a blender to make one.

Simply crush the tomato to make a puree and strain its seeds. If you want to add spice, you can add a few drops of hot sauce or a pinch of ground cayenne. Tomatoes are rich in Folate, which helps lower your risk of infection. It also has Vitamin C and A.

#3: THE CITRUS EXPLOSION

Imbibe the summer spirit by creating the citrus explosion. For this recipe, you will need two oranges, one grapefruit, and half a lemon. Peel the citrus fruits and cut these into quarters. Juice all the fruits in a blender and mix it well. It is best served chilled.

Image and Recipe Credits: theblackpeppercorn.com/citrus-explosion-juice

Oranges and other citrus fruits are rich in Vitamin C and potassium. Vitamin C has antioxidant and other properties that help protect your cells from substances that causes damage. If you have Vitamin C deficiency, you may experience delayed wound healing or inability to properly fight infections. Thus, it is important to monitor your intake of Vitamin C.

4: THE STRAWBERRY AND MANGO MOCKTAIL

Let us add a twist to juicing by creating a fruity mocktail. As mentioned above, mangoes are rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Vitamin E. Let us add strawberries in the mix! Strawberries are rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Iron, and Folate. Creating this mocktail enables you to improve your immune system and to help prevent cancer.

You will need to gather these ingredients for this recipe:

1 Mango
½ cup Orange juice
2 tablespoons Honey
10 Strawberries
2 tablespoons Lime juice
Ice cubes
Sparkling water
Mint (optional)

Then, follow the procedure found in soberjulie.com.

#5: THE SORE-RELIVING JUICE

Muscle soreness is a common symptom of flu and is also among the symptoms stated by COVID-19 patients. Watermelon is a fruit that can help relieve muscle soreness and boost your immune system. The notable nutrients found in watermelon include Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Magnesium, and Zinc. The heavy water content found in watermelon makes it easier to juice.

Purchase a small watermelon and a small lime. Blend the watermelon until it is totally pulverized. As an optional step, you may squeeze a small lime into the mixture. Lastly, blend it for a few seconds.

Image and Recipe Credits: cookieandkate.com/watermelon-juice

Enjoy your healthy, affordable, and delicious juices!

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You can now find out the value of your luxury bags, watches and jewellery with this website

Ever experienced selling your pre-loved items online, only to receive underwhelming offers for what is worth much more? You can now get the best value for your luxury bags, timepieces and jewellery with Maxi-Cash E-Valuation service from the comfort of your home.

Simply fill in a short form on Maxi-Cash website. Then, sit back, relax and their team of experienced valuers will get back to you with a free quote within three working days.

Here’s how to do it:

  1. Key in your contact details.
  2. Provide details about your valuables and other information such as gold content and weight, if applicable.
  3. Upload 2 or more images of your luxury item and you’re all set!

Make sure that the images show the entire product and different angles of it. The more details shown in the images, the more accurate the quote will be!

In addition to being convenient, you will also get an additional 8% value on your jewellery, timepieces and bags when you value your items using Maxi-Cash online valuation service. Try it now at http://bit.ly/sg-e-valuation

 

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