Digital Resources That Can Help Your Sanity

The safest thing that you can do for yourself is to stay at home. However, staying at home can take a toll on your Mental Health. It is difficult to live in a world where you cannot meet your loved ones whenever you want or where you cannot accomplish your usual outdoor activities. At some point, the news can either bore or stress you out too.

Fortunately for you, there is a wealth of digital resources that can help you stay sane. Download one or all of these apps!

#1: ZOOM

It is important to stay connected despite practicing safe distancing. One mobile and computer app that can help you connect to your loved ones and to your co-workers is Zoom. Zoom meetings are all the rage these days! This is possibly due to the useful functions of Zoom such as screen sharing and virtual backgrounds. Apart from that, many people are conducting free webinars that focus on their skills or on Mental Health awareness.

Consider opening a delicious bottle of wine while you host a virtual party with your friends. It is happy hour somewhere, right? Moreover, you may connect with your significant other as you cook and eat a meal together.

#2: DUOLINGO

Duolingo is a popular app that gamifies language learning. It offers bite-sized listening and speaking lessons among over 30 languages. If you have been itching to learn Spanish to watch Money Heist more efficiently, then you may give this app a go. Interestingly, it includes more obscure languages such as Latin and High Valyrian too. GOT fans will know what I am talking about!

#3: HEADSPACE

If you are looking for a vibrant and positive app that can help you kick-start your meditation journey, search no further than “Headspace”. Headspace includes hundreds of short meditation recordings and lengthy guided sessions. Choose your own preference as these range from physical health to personal growth as well as from stress management to stress relief.

Be honest with yourself when it comes to what you really need at the moment. If you are downloading this app for free, you will be able to access limited free sessions. Otherwise, you may upgrade your subscription to get a full access to their meditation library.

#4: APPLE PODCAST

Apple Podcast and Spotify house a variety of Mental Health and self-care podcasts that can help alleviate the emotional stress that you are feeling at the present moment. A podcast available on Apple Podcast called “Mental Illness Happy Hour” tackles difficult mental illnesses such as PTSD and addiction through interviewing notable figures and celebrities.

Another podcast that you may listen to is the “Miss Psychobabble” podcast. This peeks inside the current issues and popular culture through the lens of Psychology. From finding productivity while working at home to gaining control in times of uncertainty, this podcast educates you about human behavior and solves it through practical tips.

#5: STOIC.MENTAL HEALTH TRAINING

The ancient philosophy of Stoicism dates back in circa 300 B.C.E. Stoics endure pain and suffering without complaints and rants. If meditation is your thing, you can probably enjoy the company of the “stoic.mental health training” app. This app provides personalized insights on what influences your sense of fulfillment and levels of mood. It also gives calming exercises in the morning and evening. What’s more? It has a philosophy-driven journal that will enable you to understand why you are feeling a certain way. It is okay to not be okay, all the time.

#6: ADIDAS TRAINING

Exercise and physical activity helps you to release some “happy hormones” or endorphins. Keep the consistency in your routine by downloading the free ADIDAS TRAINING app. This app lets you complete a workout for at least 7 minutes. It comes in a series of easy to difficult pre-made workouts.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

If you have a particular goal in mind such as weight loss, you may create your own training plan too. Comparing your progress with friends who use the app is also possible. This will enable you to monitor your group workout plans and goals.

Read More...

Stop Buying These “Essentials”!

I have to be honest! Since the Circuit Breaker (CB) period started, I have been purchasing essentials (such as sanitary napkin and coffee) and non-essentials (such as make-up and jade roller) online. Online shopping prevents me from being exposed to the possible dangers of the coronavirus. However, I felt that its convenience can trap me.

I had to become more aware of my spending patterns. I gave myself a maximum limit of twice a month to purchase my needs and wants online. This way, I will be able to track my parcels and spending more efficiently.

Two nights ago, Lazada had a Flash Sale on Apple Airpods. I had been eyeing this product for a long time and have been waiting for the perfect occasion to splurge on it. Despite its 20% drop, I decided to seek the advice of my partner. His opinion is of utmost importance to me. Thankfully, his voice of reason prevented me from purchasing the device that I will likely get tired of after several months. He helped me save S$200 that night.

There are many ways to save money. You can reduce your online shopping tendencies, expand your businesses, or invest in stocks. Every little bit counts when you are trying to save money during the CB period. If you have not realized it yet, here are some “essential” things that you should stop buying.

#1: AIR FRESHENER PLUG-INS

Ahhh air fresheners! Air freshener plug-ins have been all the rage in the 1990s. Those pine-shaped air fresheners may be doing more harm than good. According to the environmental testing company called IndoorDoctor, many air fresheners contain a type of chemical known as phthalates as well as formaldehyde. Phthalates are known to interfere with the body’s production of testosterone and have been associated to reproductive abnormalities, says the nonprofit National Resources Defense Council.

For Singaporeans who have pets, the use of air fresheners may feel essential. You need to find an alternative to keep your household fresh. Try creating scented candles by using natural essential oils. Start with this tutorial.

#2: BOTTLED WATER

Singapore’s tap water is generally safe for drinking. On some instances, you may encounter a poor-tasting water due to the chlorination or discolored water. Chlorination is necessary to keep the water safe from pathogens (i.e., bacteria and viruses).

Not only does plastic bottled water add up to the plastic waste, but it also adds up to your costs. Save more by refilling your tumbler or jug from the tap. Ensure that you bring this tumbler or jug while you are out of the house too.

#3: PLASTIC UTENSILS

Yes! Disposable utensils enable you to lessen the time spent on dish washing. However, this cheap and convenient item may add pollution to our environment. Help the future generation by reducing the plastic waste.

Use metal utensils and straws wherever you go. There is a metal utensils and straws set in Lazada, which will cost you about S$7.99.

#4: DISCOUNTED ITEMS

Just because an item is on sale does not mean that you really need it. I know how attractive a Flash Sale can be. In fact, I saved a lot of money from buying my Christmas gifts through Flash Sales. However, problem may start when you purchase several on-sale items without planning to do so.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

If you do not need and want the item, skip it. Are you willing to pay for it in full price? If so, then it highlights your essential need for it. Keep these in mind!

Read More...

Phoon Huat shows us how to make the popular Basque Burnt Cheesecake the easy way

Here’s Phoon Huat’s version of the famous Basque Burnt Cheesecake that has taken the world by storm. Super simple, great for beginners!

Find all ingredients on RedManShop.com.

Find recipe here: https://www.redmanshop.com/dims/basque-burnt-cheesecake

Ingredients:

  • Royal Victoria Cream Cheese 450 gm (Product Code: 67061)
  • RedMan Caster Sugar 120 gm (Product Code: 1417)
  • RedMan Eggs 3 eggs (Product Code: 12088)
  • RedMan Vanilla Essence 2 tsp (Product Code: 67722)
  • RedMan Corn Flour 7 gm (Product Code:1201)
  • Grand Fermage Whipping Cream 220 gm. (Product Code: 58611)
  • Round Cake tin with removable base 1 pc (Product Code: 50010)

Steps:

  1. Whisk cream cheese and sugar until creamy.
  2. Add eggs one by one followed by the vanilla essence. Whisk till creamy.
  3. Add the sieved corn flour and mix well.
  4. Add the whipping cream and mix till combined.
  5. Line the 6″ cake tin with a removable base with baking paper on the bottom and sides.
  6. Bake in a pre-heated oven at 200 degrees Celsius for 40-45mins.
  7. Once baked, let cool at room temperature completely before setting in fridge for at least 2 hours.
  8. When time to serve, remove from cake tin and enjoy!

Read More...

7 Exercises You Can Do At Home While In Quarantine

As new COVID-19 cases continue to emerge in the country, the World Health Organization has urged individuals to stay healthy while in self-quarantine. In Singapore, all fitness centers and stadiums have been closed. Running outdoors does not require wearing a mask. However, walking outside of your house does.

Staying at home for prolonged periods of time can pose a significant challenge for remaining physically active. Do not succumb to the negative health effects of sedentary behavior! Exercise at home!

#1: JUMP ROPE

There is a reason why boxers incorporate the classic jump rope to their training. It improves a range of skills such as balance, stamina, endurance, and coordination. Not to mention, this lightweight and tangle-resistant rope is adjustable for different heights.

#2: MEDICINE BALL

While I will not require you to spend a huge amount of money on a full set of medicine balls, you may invest in one or two of them. Medicine balls are about the size of a Basketball, but can weigh from 2 to 30 pounds. Use these weighted balls to support your ab exercises. Ultimately, it is fantastic for building your upper-body power. Try throwing it against the wall or to a partner.

#3: CARDIO WORKOUT

For only 7 minutes, you will be able to compete a full-body workout using the free app called Seven. According to the website: “Seven’s workouts are based on scientific studies to provide the maximum benefit in the shortest time possible.” Tailor-made workouts target your goal areas to make sure you get the most out of your training.

#4: RESISTANCE BANDS

Resistance bands are cheap, convenient, and light. They retail for about S$3.90 at Decathlon. Toss a couple of resistance bands in your drawer to enjoy the 20 to 50 pounds of resistance in aid of your strength training. Research about the poses that you can do with it.

#5: 3-MOVE CARDIO CHALLENGE

Created by Eisinger, this 3-Move Cardio Workout for beginners will help you get your day started. It consists of the skater, three-point toe touch, and flutter kick. If you are starting out, try each move for 30 seconds with a pause of 30 seconds in between. You may increase the length of each move as you get the hang of these exercises.

Full workout here.

#6: PILATES

My mother is a Pilates instructor. She believes that a Pilates workout is helpful for your core and glutes muscles. Small and controlled movements are essential to hone specific muscles. Complete the 10-minute Pilates workout once or twice a week.

Full workout here.

#7: YOGA

I am a firm believer of the benefits of rhythmic breathing with a series of flowing movements. This practice is called Yoga. Empty your mind as you focus on the physical aspects of this discipline. 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. Choose a video length and a difficulty level that you are most comfortable in.

Start small with EkhartYoga:


You are now looking to the future with hope and expectations. What better investment could you make than with your own health?

Read More...

Singapore Eateries That Can Deliver To Your Doorstep

As one of my parents reach the ripe age of 50, we have planned a special celebration that will gather all our loved ones. Enter COVID-19! The pandemic has halted several gatherings such as graduations, weddings, and funerals. With that being said, my parent’s birthday is no exemption.

We need to be creative as it will happen in two weeks time. Thankfully, there are several local businesses that host their delivery services through various apps such as foodpanda and GrabFood. Foodpanda is helping business owners by speeding up the on-boarding process and by offsetting related fees.

GrabFood has signed up hundreds of F&B businesses to its food and goods delivery platforms over the past month. Moreover, they help small local businesses by creating the “Local Heroes” icon. This will increase the visibility of highly-rated small businesses.

If you are not part of these apps, you may consider the following food websites that offer delivery services islandwide.

#1: SHO YAKITORI

Website: click here

Satisfy your Japanese food cravings by placing an order at Sho Yakitori through their Whatsapp number: +6596409321. Sho Yakitori specializes in Unagi (eel), Hitsumabushi, Yakitori, and Sushi. They offer bento sets and sides too. Surely, my sister will will place many orders of Japanese food during the circuit breaker period.

#2: NAGA IMO

Website: click here

Another Japanese restaurant that flourishes through its delivery services is Naga Imo. Naga Imo is originally located at Club Street. It serves a wide variety of Japanese dishes, which you can get by contacting them at 9638 8182 or 8595 5111. Orders above S$60 are free of charge.

#3: SOCIAL PLACE

Website: click here
Best known for serving contemporary Chinese cuisine and dim sum, Social Place is a restaurant hailing from Hong Kong. From now until May 4, Social Place is offering takeaway and delivery services with a minimum order of S$50. This comes along the S$7 delivery fee. For orders of S$100 and above, delivery fees will be waived.

Delivery hours span from 11:30 am to 8:30 pm daily. You may order through the website.

#4: MENYA KOKORO

Website: click here
Sorry for flooding you with Japanese restaurants, but Menya Kokoro is worth mentioning. It specializes in mazesoba. Mazesoba is a type of dry, mixed noodles. It is currently doing deliveries in the Tanjong Pagar area with a minimum order of S$25 and no delivery charge.

Delivery hours span from 11:00 am to 8:45 pm daily. Order by contacting
+65 6443 1727 or +65 9392 2466.

#5: 928 YISHUN LAKSA

928 Yishun Laksa is a hawker stall in Yishun that sells delicious laksa. Delivery services spanning from 10:30 am to 6:30 pm from Monday to Saturday are currently exclusive to Yishun and Khatib. The delivery fee is S$5.

The laksa’s friendly prices come in two sizes:

Small: S$3.00
Big: S$3.50

Image Credits: unsplash.com

You can add ingredients at S$0.50 extra or cockles for S$1 more. To order, contact Glen on WhatsApp at 9278 8282 and complete the payment via PayNow or PayLah.

Read More...