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Top Places For Authentic Jjajangmyeon In Singapore (From S$7)

One of the most common take-away dishes in Korean dramas is Jajangmyeon (자장면) or Jjajangmyeon (짜장면). Jjajangmyeon is a Korean noodle dish coated with a thick sauce made of chunjang, vegetables, and diced pork. Different versions of this dish use seafood or other meats.

It was inspired by the Chinese dish Zha Jiang Mian, which was introduced by a Chinese immigrant living in Incheon. Nowadays, Jjajangmyeon brings delight to people all over the world. Luckily for us, we can satisfy our appetite without having to travel to Korea.

#1: MUKJJA

Mukjja‘s catchy name came from 먹자 (Mukja) meaning “Let’s eat!” and 짜 (Jja) from “Jjajangmyeon”. Located opposite Novena Church, MukJja offers a fusion of dishes from the Korean and Chinese cuisines. It opened last March 2020, before the implementation of the Circuit Breaker.

People who have missed the dishes from Tae Woo Ban Jum (i.e., a Korean restaurant that used to be at Clarke Quay) will be happy to know that its founder is the person behind MukJja.

Now, let us focus on MukJja’s Jjajangmyeon (about S$11). What makes their Jjajangmyeon memorable is its in-house noodles, its black bean paste, and its inclusion of shredded meat. Food blogger and presenter Daniel Ang expressed that its taste is as legit as the one he had before in Seoul. He is not alone! Many online reviews considered it as one of the best Jjajangmyeons in Singapore.

Image Credits: facebook.com/mukjja

Address: 275 Thomson Road #01-07, Singapore 307645

#2: DONG FANG HONG

This list will not be complete without the Dong Fang Hong Korean Chinese Restaurant. Dong Fang Hong serves a mouthwatering collection of dishes, which are suitable for casual dining and family gatherings. Serving people since 2005, Dong Fang Hong is one of the most experienced Korean Chinese restaurants in Singapore.

Try the DFH Jjajangmyeon (about S$12) or the Uni Jjajangmyeon (about S$13) when you are there. The DFH Jjajangmyeon is made with chewy handmade noodles and savory black bean sauce. While the Uni Jjajangmyeon is the spicy equivalent its Jjajangmyeon. The spiciness seeps through the thick savory sauce, making the dish more addicting with every bite.

Image Credits: facebook.com/DongFangHongSg

Address: 92 Telok Ayer Street #01-01 Singapore, Singapore 048472

#3: O.BBa Jjajang

O.BBa Jjajang is the sister restaurant of O.BBa BBQ. One of its well-known dishes is the Jjajangmyeon (from S$13). The restaurant’s Jjajangmyeon is served with fermented black soybean paste, homemade noodles, diced pork, onions, and shredded cucumber. Its size can feed about two people, but you are more than welcome to upsize your bowl for an additional fee.

Its noodles are smooth and chewy. As for the sauce, it has a generous sauce-to-noodle ratio. People who love saucy dishes will consider it a treat. Please mix the noodles and the sauce before consuming it to prevent the noodles from sticking together.

Image Credits: facebook.com/obbajjajang

Address: 77 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088498

#4: ANNYEONG CHICKEN

The most inexpensive Jjajangmyeon (about S$7) on this list packs a punch! You see, it added vibrancy to our local hawker scene with its offerings of popular Korean cuisines such as the Jjajangmyeon. At Annyeong Chicken, the black bean sauce coats every yellow noodle strand. It boasts with a heavy onion flavor too.

You can complete your course with delicious dishes such as the Soy Garlic Chicken (about S$8/3 pieces) and the Haemul Pajeon (from S$10). Haemul Pajeon is otherwise known as the Korean seafood pancake.

Image Credits: facebook.com/annyeongck

Address: Blk 710 Clementi West Street 2, #01-247, Rong Fa Coffee Shop, Singapore 120709

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

3 Places Where You Can Learn Pottery In Singapore

Pottery is one of the oldest and most widespread forms of decorative arts. Despite the technological advances, the existence of pottery is far from over.

Experience the beauty of pottery as you attend one of the classes below. These classes will help you create your own plates, bowls, mugs, and more. Handmade crafts are more personalized and meaningful than store-bought products.

What are you waiting for? Make pottery your new hobby this 2021!

#1: THOW KWANG POTTERY JUNGLE

What better way to experience pottery than by going back to its roots? While most pottery studios in the country operate on electric kilns, the Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle does not. Witness the magic of the dragon kiln as you attend one of its workshops.

Built in 1940s, the Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle’s dragon kiln is one of the last two dragon kilns in Singapore. Its uniqueness does not stop there! You see, it is the only dragon kiln that is fired up multiple times per year. It is made from bricks and uses a wood-firing technique to engulf the pieces in fire. This way, the ashes react with the pottery glaze to create dynamic textures and colors.

Visit this place to enjoy their tours, workshops, and retail items. One of its interesting workshops is the Paw-Stamping Workshop. This workshop allows you to personalize your pet’s bowl with its paw (costs about S$65). Workshop prices start from S$28/pax.

Address: 85 Lorong Tawas, S (639823)
Website: potteryjungle.com

#2: ARUDIO

ARUDIO’s story dates way back in 2014 with its founder – Poh Sin Yong. Poh Sin Yong aims to support the local art scene through providing arts to the public and job opportunities to the local artists. Nestled in Woodlands, you will find various workshops such as painting, printmaking, and pottery.

ARUDIO provides art classes to all levels and rental spaces for artists. In its core, it believes that everyone is bestowed with the gift of creativity.

Well, here is one for the books – a pottery class for couples or friends! If you are looking for an activity to experience quality time with your partner, you may book for the Ceramic Hand Building Class (about S$130/2 pax). It is a 3-hour class for people who are eager to learn about the different tools and techniques used in pottery. Nonetheless, their trial classes start at S$70/pax.

Address: 11 Woodlands Close, #09-30, S (737853)
Website: arudioceramic.com

Image Credits: facebook.com/arudiosg

#3: THE POTTERS’ GUILT

The Potters’ Guilt offers more than its eye-catching name! According to its website, it got its name by playing with the terms “guild and guilt”. For them, the word “guild refers to the respect accorded to the integrity of craft” and the word “guilt refers to the pursuit of our own idiosyncratic imperfections”. This studio consists of practicing artists, who are dedicated to work in the realm of three-dimensional art. They share their passions through their products and workshops.

Sign up for The Potters’ Guilt Pottery On Wheels Experience (about S$55/pax) to know more about the technique of wheel-thrown pottery. This is the same tool used in the unforgettable scene in the film “Ghost”. Classes are kept small to ensure everyone safety.

Best of all? Their workshops are not only for adults. Your beloved children can experience the therapeutic effect of pottery by signing up for the Children’s Workshop (about S$60/pax). Let your children create monster mugs while having fun!

Address: 195 Pearl’s Hill Terrace, #01-03, S (168976)
Website: thepottersguilt.com

The abovementioned art and pottery studios are just some of the options you may consider when starting out your creative hobby. If you are not yet ready to take a class, learning at home is a budget-friendly alternative. Start by gathering air-dry clay, paint, and acrylic gloss. There are countless tutorials available on YouTube. See for yourself!

Sources: 1 & 2

How To Overcome The Temptations Of Retail Therapy

With a population of nearly 5.7 million people, the humble Lion City is one of the major e-commerce markets in Southeast Asia. In fact, the largest segment in its e-commerce market is the Electronics & Media. This segment’s growth is understandable given that most of us relied on technology to sustain our needs during the pandemic.

Aside from this, research firm IGD Asia found that Singapore’s grocery market saw an increasing demand in its consumers. It was forecasted to become a S$9.9 billion industry by 2023. The leading players in the local online groceries were NTUC FairPrice and RedMart.

These figures highlight the increasing numbers of people who patronize online shopping. Online shopping can bring multiple benefits to its consumers, but it can also encourage retail therapy. Oh! What exactly is retail therapy?

DEFINITION

Retail therapy is the act of shopping for goods with the primary purpose of improving one’s mood or disposition. In other words, it is shopping (or window shopping) for something to make you feel better.

PSYCHOLOGY BEHIND RETAIL THERAPY

Retail therapy produces “happy hormones”.

When you are shopping, the body releases dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role on how we experience pleasure and reward. It helps reinforce enjoyable sensations and behaviors. This affects how people feel during the anticipation and acquisition of a new possession. Interestingly, the height of the blissful release is usually during the anticipation of getting a new item. Before you know it, the bliss is gone!

Retail therapy can boost the buyer’s self-esteem.

Many advertisements take advantage of how retail therapy can boost one’s self-esteem. You may be tempted by both targeted ads and SMS notifications when you are most vulnerable. Be mindful!

On the other hand, treating yourself can be strategically motivated. A 2011 study showed that consumers can exercise restraint if this act leads to improved mood.

Retail therapy has its advantage too.

The authors of a 2013 study suggests that retail therapy gives people a sense of control that counteracts the feelings of powerlessness. People tend to feel empowered when they decide what they must purchase. When done in moderation, retail therapy can bring positive effects.

However, it becomes a harmful habit if you consistently shop to cope with distress. The temporary boost associated with shopping can prevent you from seeking necessary help.

Retail therapy can affect your financial situation.

Retail therapy may affect your finances if you do not keep track of your spending. Having a budget and sticking to it can help you cushion the costs of shopping.

Spending more than what you have may lead to significant levels of debt over time. Drowning in debt can result to more distress. Therefore, it is important to have a realistic allocation for your leisure shopping activities.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND

FOLLOW A REALISTIC BUDGET

Overspending and debt are the primary negative consequences of retail therapy. Avoid these by strategically planning your spending. Create a budget and maintain your limits. Set aside a specific amount for your retail therapy each month.

If you want to shop for an item that is beyond your limit, you can plan to save up for it. Saving for a desired item can be rewarding!

TRY WINDOW SHOPPING

Much like physical or online shopping, window shopping or scrolling through an online store can positively impact your mood. The anticipation of eventual possibility of a treat releases dopamine. It gives your brain the bliss it craves for, but it does not cost a thing!

REDUCE THE TEMPTATION

Shopping apps are tempting for all types of consumers. The convenience of shopping at one’s fingertips as well as swift online payments have helped increase the online shopping tendencies of many. Because everything is convenient, there is only a small room for contemplation and clearer decision-making. Hence, you can delete the shopping apps from all your devices to reduce its temptation.

THINK BEFORE YOU PURCHASE

Everyone has bad days. If you are overwhelmed with emotions during your shopping day, give yourself a brief waiting period. Ponder about the content of your shopping cart for one to two days. Then, go back to it.

If you still feel like you want or need the item when you are in a better mood, you can get it if your budget permits it.

Image Credits: pixabay.com

CONCLUSION

Retail therapy is the act of shopping for goods with the primary purpose of improving one’s mood or disposition. In most cases, rewarding yourself with new items can make you feel better. You just need to stay within the budget.

It turns harmful when you use it as a coping mechanism to regulate your emotions (i.e., emotional spending). To relieve distress on a long-term basis, you must identify and manage its triggers. Seek professional help when necessary. Remember that retail therapy is not actually therapy!

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

3 Trendiest Spots To Explore In Singapore

Travelling outside Singapore may be restricted for the time being, but it does not mean that you will stop discovering new places. Just look at the places found this list!

#1: TROPICAL MONTANE ORCHIDETUM AT SINGAPORE BOTANIC GARDENS

Feast your eyes with nature’s beauty as you stroll in the Singapore Botanic Gardens. When you arrive, do not forget to visit the recently opened Tropical Montane Orchidetum. This Orchidetum spans around 2,480sqm and features the largest collection of high-elevation montane orchids in Asia.

Nestled within the National Orchid Garden, this attraction features whimsical trails from the Secret Ravine to the Sembcorp Cool House. The latter not only brings a delightful escape from the heat, but also emulates the climate at 1,000 m to 2,000 m elevation. This air-conditioned glass house has high ceilings paired with its beautiful array of fauna. Visitors may wander amidst a garden of more than 1,000 species of orchids and hybrids. Apart from these, the Orchidetum has a lot more to offer!

If you are planning to experience this attraction soon, do visit during weekdays or off-peak hours. Strict safety management measures are placed for the well-being of all its visitors. Thus, they employ temporary closures when the maximum capacity of the place is reached.

Good news! Entrance fee is waived for Singaporeans and PRs until April 11, 2021. Nonetheless, the regular ticket prices (*for Singapore residents) are S$5 for adults and S$1 for students or senior citizens. Tickets are free for children under 12.

Address: 1 Cluny Rd, Singapore 259569
Visit nparks.gov.sg/sbg for more details.

#2: LEGO® CERTIFIED STORE (LCS) BRICKS WORLD AT SUNTEC CITY

Whether you are a LEGO® enthusiast or a hobbyist, you will be happy to know that the revamped Bricks World – Suntec City is bigger than ever! During its opening (April 9), this LEGO® Certified Store showcased its unique features such as the Merlion mosaic wall.

The bespoke Merlion mosaic wall was made from 92,160 pieces of LEGO® bricks and was designed by LEGO® Certified Professional Nicholas Foo. Spanning 3.9 meters high and 1.6 meters wide, the Merlion mosaic wall took over 128 hours to complete. Apart from this, visitors may happily spot the hidden Mickey and Minnie Mouse in the display scene. Moreover, younger visitors will be able to enjoy its LEGO® play wall in the future.

Best of all? Its grand opening includes exclusive deals!

Image Credits: facebook.com/BricksWorld

Address: 3 Temasek Boulevard, #01-305, West Wing, Suntec City Mall, Singapore 038983
Visit bricksworld.com to build more.

#3: MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM AT DEMPSEY

Amp up your social media game by taking aesthetically pleasing snaps at the Museum of Ice Cream – Singapore. The highly anticipated opening of this colorful museum marks its first outlet outside United States. Singapore Tourism Board (STB) announced that it will be opening by the second half of the year.

As the Museum of Ice Cream graces our shores, you can expect to enter 14 never-before-seen installations. These multi-sensory installations are dedicated to the celebration and experience of enjoying an ice cream. In fact, its American counterpart features the Rainbow Tunnel and the Sprinkle Pool.

It is set to open its sweet doors in August 2021 at a 60,000 sq. ft. property along Dempsey. For the meantime, you can sign up for early ticket access at museumoficecream.com/early-access-sg.

Visit facebook.com/museumoficecreamsg to get the latest scoop!

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

Try these strategies to counter anxiety

The words “anxiety” and “panic” are often used interchangeably, especially among laymen. Though both terms have similarities, they are two different conditions according to medical professionals.

But that’s not the ultimate aim of this article, though it’s vital that we know the differences between them. Anxiety usually arises as a result of worry, stress, or an influence that causes both. On the other hand, panic attacks do not happen because of such triggers and may just come by “out of the blue”.

For those who think they may be suffering from severe panic attacks, we advise you to seek help from a mental health professional. As for those with anxieties, you may want to try these strategies to counter your uneasiness.

#1: Get moving

Exercising causes your brain to release chemicals called endorphins that aid us in feeling good. It can alter our mood for the better, which is why we often feel more relaxed and less stressed after a good workout.

Anxiety sufferers should engage in exercising as often as possible because there are tremendous benefits. For one, exercise is negatively associated with anxiety. The more consistent you are with your workout routine, the less anxious you might feel over the long term.

#2: Gamify your stressors

Gamifying a stressor is the mental process of converting an anxiety-inducing task into a more fun situation.

For instance, you have a pending assignment that makes you feel anxious. Why not turn it into a competition with yourself? Break the work down into small bits and find out how quickly you can achieve each mini task. When you succeed, remember to reward yourself!

Or, if you constantly feel stressed over your monthly presentations to the management, try wearing something comical under your formal workwear when the day arrives. It could be a skintight superman t-shirt or a colourful pair of socks to lift your mood instantly.

#3: Pen down your thoughts

Image Credits: travelandleisure.com

Anxiety can happen due to non-stop racing thoughts. When you find yourself getting trapped in a mental loop, penning down what bothers you can be a very effective way to offload it from your consciousness.

Interestingly, experts have hypothesised that the average person now remembers fewer things because of the ease with which we can look up information on the internet. Now, you can do the same with a journal. Write down your anxious thoughts somewhere, and let your brain offload them as you let the ink flow. Make it a habit to do so frequently or set a specific time to develop a routine.

#4: Stay hydrated

When work gets busy, it’s easy to forget our meals or stay hydrated. While most people are not dehydrated to the point of needing medical attention, it is fair to say that the average person does not drink eight glasses of water daily.

Dehydration can lead to symptoms such as bad headaches as a result of slower blood and oxygen flow to the brain. With that said, the loss of blood flow to the brain can exacerbate your anxiety numbness, which you want to avoid.

#5: Engage in positivity

We have more control over our minds than we think, and one of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety is to begin rewiring yourself for positivity. Have you realised that it starts to snowball when you allow one lousy thought to enter your mind?

When you find yourself entertaining negative thoughts, redirect yourself and find something nice to say. Thinking more positively, in general, is likely to improve your anxiety and your general outlook on life.

#6: Observe your social environment

Image Credits: shrm.org

While being positive helps, it is sometimes hard to maintain that attitude if surrounded by relentlessly or persistently negative people.

Yes, we all have that one co-worker who is always gossiping about someone else. That same colleague could also be a friend or family member who complains non-stop about his or her life. While we obviously can’t disengage from our co-workers or cut off contacts completely, it’s possible to be aware and adjust your exposure with them accordingly.

#7: Find a healthy distraction

Sometimes when anxiety visits, we seek solitude to be with our thoughts or remove ourselves from a stimulating environment. This can be an excellent mechanism to cope at times, but it can also work against us when we allow our thoughts to take over.

Finding a way to distract yourself when you feel anxious can help minimise those thumping thoughts and regain your focus. While meeting friends or picking up a new hobby may help, introverts can sometimes feel overwhelmed with such activities.

If that is you, why not try spring cleaning as an effective distractor? Engaging in the act helps us alter and clean our physical environment, which is also therapeutic. On days when you don’t feel like cleaning, how about solving a puzzle or playing a simple game?

By limiting the amount of time anxiety creeps up on you, you can reclaim your mind control and strengthen your stress control muscle. All will be well again!

#1: Get moving

#2: Gamify your stressors

#3: Pen down your thoughts

#4: Stay hydrated

#5: Engage in positivity

#6: Observe your social environment

#7: Find a healthy distraction

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