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QUALITY OF LIFE

WELL-BEING

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

Meditate to feel calmer

PERSONAL GROWTH

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50 Ways to be romantic on the cheap

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Cover Story Building momentum in life Are you feeling stuck and stagnated in life with no inspiration and in the same oldroutine? Then it is time to change directions by taking inspired actions. The results may surprise you!

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CONTENTS

Feature Unlocking the power of your dreams Reading dreams symbolically is required as their language is one of metaphor.

Travel Time Trip to Urumqi, China

All about Health Have an Itch-Free New Year

Get Inspired Meditate to feel calmer

Relationships 50 ways to be romantic on the cheap

Career Corner How to breathe life into your dreams?

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IN EVERY ISSUE Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter Question of the month Thoughts on life Enjoy Guide

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EDITOR’S LETTER

A publication of Anima Publishing Limited 8/F., Excelsior Building, 68-76 Sha Tsui Road, Tsuen Wan, New Territories, Hong Kong T: (852) 2325 0287 F: (852) 3983 2100 E: info@animamag.com

As we start

the new year, what are your plans and thoughts for 2012? Some people like the idea of setting new year’s resolutions. I am not sure if you are one of them, but the start of the new year is definitely a time for us to reflect on the changes we need to make. We hope that you will enjoy a new year with momentum. Thus, in this issue, our Cover Story “Building momentum in life” on page 6 gives tips on how to get the motivation and drive to achieve your goals. Life is short. And it would be great if we could just seize the day. Work hard, play hard! Let’s speed up our energy train. Take baby steps and walk towards your ideal life. If there is anything you want to do, take action and commit now. Our article in the Relationships column on page 23 shares with you 50 ways to have a romantic time with your partner, and they don’t need a lot of money. Whether it is our career, relationships or spiritual life, I have always believed that we need to spend time and make an effort to actively maintain it, so that it will develop and prosper. Thus, don’t forget to set aside some time for romance with your partner amid your busy lives. As for our article “Have an itch-free new year” in our Health column on page 20, our writer Azure Lorraine discusses eczema, also called atopic dermatitis. Do read the article if you want to learn about the ways for healing and prevention. Have a great day! LAM CHI FAI Publisher and Editor-in-Chief www.animamag.com www.facebook.com/AnimaMag www.twitter.com/AnimaMagazine

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PUBLISHER AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lam Chi Fai EDITOR Eunice Wong ART DIRECTOR Lok Yin Chun Marketing Executive Candy Wong CONTRIBUTORS Neha Ghosh, Dr. Mark Greene, Heenu Nihalani, Azure Lorraine, Kevin Ma, Leo Babauta, Soma Vajpayee PRINTER Fantasy Printing Limited 7/F., Tin Fung Industrial Mansion 63 Wong Chuk Hang Road Hong Kong ADVERTISING advertise@animamag.com EDITORIAL editorial@animamag.com

Anima magazine is published by Anima Publishing Limited. Copyright 2012 Anima Publishing Limited, all rights reserved. The title “Anima magazine” its associated logos and content are the property of Anima Publishing Limited. Reproduction in any manner in whole or in part in English or other languages without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. While every care has been taken, we do not accept liability with respect to any views, opinions or advice given in this magazine.

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QUESTION OF THE MONTH “I have worked in my profession for about 10 years. I don’t know why I feel that I want to try to do something different. But I don’t have any idea what I can do or want to do. How can I find that out? But then would it be a waste of my work experience? What is your advice? Sally Wong

Dear Sally, “Problems cannot be solved by the same level of thinking that created them.” Einstein said that and I find it particularly relevant in your situation. Your great questions are mainly mind based...and that’s not your mind’s job to find out the answer! Our mind is a fantastic operation system that also needs to be directed to generate great solutions when we tell it what to do. For instance, tennis champions know during their matches how to redirect their minds to the present moment, so that they can express the best of themselves, whereas beginners would be lost in their constant self-talks: “Why did I miss this ball? Why, why, why!!?” To answer your question, you need to be in touch with your Heart, which is your inner Wisdom. That’s her job and she knows why you came in this life-time − your mission. When you write “I don’t know why I feel I want to try something different”, your soul knows. Trust it. Therefore, my advice is to take more time with your Heart. How can you do that? Go for holidays. Take some distance with your busy life and enjoy some time with and for your Self only. Walking or just being in nature helps a lot. Journal what comes up, your sensations and all the signs that might come to you on your way, and reinstall a partner relationship with this wise part inside of you − your intuition. Having said that, I guess that your mind doesn’t like my answer! But at another level, it might make sense. So, be aware right now about how does that feel in your heart, then follow this impulse. I wish you success and continue to have this courage on your journey. Benoit Foucher

A former tennis professional, Benoit Foucher is accompanying people on their way to become champions in their lives. As a certified life coach (Coaches Training Institute), NLP Practitioner, registered yoga teacher and NASM fitness coach, Benoit gives concern to the physical, spiritual and mental parts of each of us. His website is www.benoitfoucher.com.

Do you have questions on health and well-being? Please send your questions to editorial@animamag.com. WWW.ANIMAMAG.COM

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

THOUGHTS ON LIFE

“Invest in your health, and then you can get lots of wealth,” a husband said to his wife.

“Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.” (Vincent van Gogh)

“Most people are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.” (Abraham Lincoln)

“Look out for opportunities around you. There are opportunities every day, everywhere. Don’t limit yourself to opportunities,” an entrepreneur said.

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“Sometimes, we are looking but not seeing, and hearing but not listening,” a teacher said.

“Open your eyes to what is happening around you, not just in your work, but also in the community and in the world. At the end of the day, that would enrich you and bring you different perspectives, and that would help you do your work better,” a businesswoman said.

“If you don’t think something is a problem, it won’t be a problem for you,” a father said to his daughter.

“Each one has to find his peace from within. And peace to be real must be unaffected by outside circumstances.” (Mohandas K. Gandhi)

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

Building momentu in life

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

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Are you feeling stuck and stagnated in life with no inspiration and in the same old-routine? Then its time to change directions by taking inspired actions. The results may surprise you! By Neha Ghosh

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

Do you have big plans for your life which includes things

you want to do and achieve? Perhaps you want a promotion, a better job, run a marathon, climb Mount Kilimanjaro or just lose a couple of pounds. If you are a dreamer then surely, you have big ideas about your ideal life which includes success, achievement and recognition, right? Yet, in spite of big plans, somehow you are not able to attain them. Your energy train is just chugging along slowly downhill instead of wheezing past at super high speed. Why is that? The word you are looking for is Momentum. It can be also described as motivation, drive or the desire to do something new. No matter how you define it, the reason most people need momentum at a certain stage in life because they just can’t seem to move forward. But let’s be honest here. It’s not easy to gain the elusive momentum, especially when you are completely enveloped up from head to toe in the boring chores of day to day routines. You would need to make an effort to see where the next step of your life should go. It can be equally tough to even notice that you are deteriorating when your job meets the uncomplicated requirements for sustenance in everyday life; enough money to provide for basic necessities like shelter, food and entertainment. The REAL problem arises when you notice that time is flying by rather quickly and your life is not what you like it to be.

Take Action Now! Okay, I understand that you are a slave to your routine because you have been doing it for so long. But if it’s not making you any happier, then it would be best to change before it’s too late. No matter how big or small your plan is, the best time to start is NOW. According to Steven Gellar, Psychiatrist at St. Pauls Hospital, Miami, “The longer it takes for you to shake things up, the harder it will be to get started. There is no right or wrong time for something that needs to be done. If you need to do it, do it straight away”. Dr Gellar recommends three immediate steps to start the process of gaining momentum in life.

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The key to success is moderation or baby steps. Remember not to overpromise yourself big results too soon or else you will end up disappointed and demotivated. Plan + Commit Whether you are thinking of switching careers or going back to school, planning will help you to clear your thoughts and give you clear directions. Once the clutter in your head is cleared, the next step is easy. Just commit. Start contacting headhunters or prepare for your college interview. Simple enough, right? Take baby steps Just because you want to get healthy does not mean that you eat only broccoli your entire life, because there are two flaws with that plan; very soon you will start hating broccoli and once that happens, you WILL attack junk food with a vengeance. The key to success is moderation or baby steps. Remember not to overpromise yourself big results too soon or else you will end up disappointed and demotivated. Simply put, start with eating some broccoli everyday with every meal and soon you will notice a leaner and trimmer you. Stay detached Dr Gellar believes that this is the most crucial step towards gaining momentum. You have planned, committed and now its time to just LET IT BE. Don’t fuss. Don’t ponder too much or worry about the outcome. Obsessing on the aftermath will result in frustration and if you don’t see the outcome WWW.ANIMAMAG.COM

you expected, it might also end in depression. As the sacred Hindu Scripture Bhagwad Gita proclaims, “Do your deed and don’t worry about the fruit”. The above mentioned steps are simple but they are extremely effective in giving your life the much needed thrust. Planning something new, staying committed yet detached at the same time will move you towards your life purpose and goal and soon, you will be too busy to make silly excuses. Embrace challenges as a long lost friend According to motivational speaker Robert Basu, people are happiest when they push themselves to their limits. “Whether you run an extra hour on the treadmill or go for a treacherous hike, once you finish, you will feel like superstar. And that’s the feeling you should look forward to everyday. Not for anyone but solely for yourself ”. Does that mean that we should constantly challenge ourselves emotionally and physically? Absolutely! “Don’t WWW.ANIMAMAG.COM

get too confortable. Don’t get complacent. And definitely don’t get the idea that things will start rolling when “they’re supposed to” because it certainly does not happen that way,” Robert Basu adds. So now you have two options. Accept that your life will never be any better or different than it is right now or think of the current stage of inertia as an opportunity − opportunity to change paths, to try something new, to feel like a superstar everyday. Like the American, lecturer, author and motivational speaker Dale Carnegie once said, “Inaction creates doubt and fear. Action raises confidence and courage. Do not sit home and think about fear if you want to conquer it. Go out and get busy.” These are wise words from a wise man. And it’s time for you to follow it.

Neha Ghosh has been working as a writer/editor for the last six years. Besides politics and sports, she has written on every genre possible. Her happiest times are when she is travelling to a new place and writing.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

Unlocking the Power of your Dreams Reading dreams symbolically is required because their language is one of metaphor. By Dr. Mark Greene

Dreaming has long been associated with creativity,

discovery and invention. Artists, scientists and musicians such as Stephen King, Paul McCartney, Otto Loewi, Mary Shelley, Friedrich Kekulé and countless others attribute one or more of their most pivotal creative discoveries to their dreams (look up their names online with the word ‘dreams’). As an advocate of Jungian psychology, I have seen time and again how unlocking the meaning of one’s dreams can surprisingly and effectively provide insight and change in a person’s life. Why do we dream? Over the millennia, many theories have been offered explaining the function of dreams. The Greeks believed they were visitations from the gods or a means by which a god’s favor could be curried. Sigmund Freud, an Austrian neurologist, found dreams to contain, amongst other elements, repressed wishes that would otherwise be unacceptable to society or

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even one’s own waking consciousness. C. G. Jung, a Swiss psychiatrist and an influential thinker, saw dreams as a type of psychological messaging system designed to develop harmonious adjustment in our lives. For Jung, dreams were explicit in their intent but needed to be interpreted to yield their fruits. It should come as no surprise that there is no consensus in today’s scientific community regarding the purpose of dreaming. The how of it all, however, is well-documented. Did you know that while we dream, our bodies are entirely paralyzed? Neurological connections between the brain and the body are capped at the spine: no nerve impulses come in through the senses and none leave the brain in the form of motion commands. The brain, however, is as active during dreaming sleep as when we are awake and so experiences sensory and motor stimulation. That is why dreams seem so real while we dream them. WWW.ANIMAMAG.COM

Dreams are a physiological necessity We need to sleep. Although the jury is out on what factors make some people require more or less sleep than others, one finding pervades the research: without sleep, dangerous symptoms including cognitive impairment emerge; sleep deprivation psychosis develops quite quickly. Our need for sleep is seconded only by our need for dreaming. In fact, dreaming and sleeping are so intimately related that it is tempting to treat them as equivalent patterns of behavior, but they do differ as not all sleeping includes dreaming. During an average night’s sleep of seven to eight hours, about one and half hours are spent dreaming. We sleep in one to two-hour long cycles that repeat four to five times per night. Our deepest sleep is mostly dreamless. One hour after falling asleep, however, we begin to rise from our deepest sleep stage and nearly awaken. This very light sleep is characterized by rapid eye movement (REM) WWW.ANIMAMAG.COM

and lasts 15-25 minutes per sleep cycle. Most of our dreaming occurs during REM sleep. How do we know? In sleep laboratories, 80-85% of subjects awakened during REM sleep answer “Yes” when asked by experimenters “Were you just dreaming?” Our most vivid dreams—and not coincidentally, JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

Theories attempting to explain the purpose of dreaming abound. Some propose dreams help us consolidate memory and process emotions in anticipation of demands placed on us during the day. longest REM segment—occur just before we wake up to start our day. The symbolic language of dreams Although dreams often ‘speak’ loudly with images, their meaning, more often than not, appears muddled, confusing and meandering. Reading dreams symbolically is required because their language is one of metaphor. How about so-called dream dictionaries? Please forget them! Here’s why. The image of say, a bridge, in my dream will mean something different than it does in someone else’s dream. This is due to the infinitely varying contexts any two individuals may find themselves in at any given moment in life. Questions that need to be asked include ‘What kind of bridge is it? Is it metal, wooden, plastic, large, old or new? In the dream, are you walking, driving…floating… on the bridge or beneath it? Are you stopped? Is it day or night? Does the bridge cover water, land or lava? Are the ends of the bridge visible?’ The number of possible different answers to these questions indicates the complexity of dreams in general and the different associations the dreamer may have with a symbol in particular. Looking up the word ‘bridge’ in a popular dream dictionary, however, may only provide one or two possible meanings and will certainly not account for the variety of contexts stated above, not to mention the unique particularities of the bridge as it appears in your dream.

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Expanding your awareness of the unconscious mind Feelings of excitement from linking the unconscious mind with conscious awareness normally develop quickly after starting a dream journal. This excitement is a precursor to achieving insight in dreamwork. According to Jung, this process facilitates the discovery and confirmation of one’s purpose. The Japanese call this sense of purpose ikigai and the French, raison d’être. In essence, it is your reason for waking up in the morning: the purpose for living your life. Dream journaling Here is the first step for working with your dreams: enhance dream cultivation and recall. Your ability to remember and record your dreams is an essential skill and crucial first step toward understanding their meaning. Like any other activity, dream recall must be practiced to strengthen it. Going to sleep intent on remembering your dreams, keeping a pad and pen by your bedside and actually recording your dreams first thing in the morning (before you move your body’s position) comprise the most basic elements of dream cultivation. Keep a dream journal; start one today. Dreams are indeed good for us even though the specific function of REM sleep remains elusive and mysterious. Theories attempting to explain the purpose of dreaming abound. Some propose dreams help us consolidate memory and process emotions in anticipation of demands placed on us during the day. Other suggest dreams help rehearse genetically encoded survival skills (fight, flight or freeze) by playing out various scenarios in a sort of virtual dream theater. All of these theories have merit yet I am with C. G. Jung who said that dreams “… are invariably seeking to express something that the ego does not know and does not understand.” May your dreams bring you insight!

Dr. Mark Greene is an Assistant Professor in the Dept. of Counselling and Psychology at Shue Yan University. He has a Ph.D. in depth psychology and is a registered counselor at the Dream Therapy Institute in Central where he can be reached at contact@dreamdecanter.net.

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GET INSPIRED

Meditate

to feel calmer Meditating for a short period of time every day can help you regain peace of mind. By Heenu Nihalani

Chocolate, alcohol, trashy re-

ality shows and meditation. No, this isn’t a ‘pick the odd one out’ question. Believe it or not, they all have something in common: they are tried and tested ways to get instant gratification and help us escape from the stress of everyday life. You’re probably doubtful that meditation should be included in this list. I’m not trying to trivialise the hours of hard work meditation practitioners put in to achieve meditative mastery. Neither am I discount-

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

GET INSPIRED

When you are in flow at work, you are meditating through productivity. This results in fulfilment and motivation to do more and to do it well.

ing the fact that it is a vital facet of Buddhist monks’ lives. But what is true is that even if you meditate for the time it takes to eat a bar of chocolate, you will get benefits: reduced blood pressure, a slower heart rate, diminished anxiety and a feeling of renewed control over your circumstances. How’s that for a ten-minute break? Effects On The Brain Around the world, hundreds of scientific studies on meditation have revealed its astonishing effects on the brain. Many have shown positive effects of meditation on the brain, such as reducing agerelated shrinkage of parts of the brain cortex. Professor Sara Lazar of the Massachusetts General Hospital studied people who practiced insight meditation, which involves watching their surroundings objectively and calmly. This form of meditation harnesses sections of the brain responsible for attention and processing sensory input. The bigger these parts of the brain are, the better is the person’s ability to concentrate

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and to be aware of the present moment. Lazar’s study showed that they were substantially larger in meditators than non-meditators. What happened to the meditators was a phenomenon only recently discovered by neuroscientists. It’s called neuroplasticity, and it’s the brain’s ability to strengthen or expand brain circuits that are used often, and shrink those which are used less. The meditators in Dr Lazar’s study were, in effect, exercising their cranial muscles to become better at concentrating and being calm. And the good news is, they didn’t meditate for hours and hours each day – just 30 to 40 minutes daily, slotted in around their busy work and family lives. Suddenly, the benefits of meditation don’t seem quite so inaccessible! So how do you get started? The most commonly taught meditation technique involves sitting quietly and concentrating on your breathing. However, with only a ten minute break to regain peace of mind in the middle of the work day, many people find it difficult to quickly

fight off distracting, anxious thoughts. WAYS TO meditate Fortunately, there are other ways to reach a meditative state. Stefania Lucchetti, author of The Principle of Relevance, Meditation for Busy Minds and Ideas in Reality defines a meditative state as one in which a person is “watchful of his or her thoughts but not absorbed by them, or removed from his or her thoughts”. In addition, the person feels a sense of calmness and a loss of ego. To reach a meditative state, go for a walk or listen to classical or meditative music, advises Dr Susan Jamieson, author of Medical to Mystical and a family doctor who has practised in Hong Kong for over two decades. Try adding Vivaldi or Debussy to your iPod and immerse yourself in it whenever you’re stressed. REgularity is the key According to Dr Jamieson, meditating every day for a short time is better for you than doing it less regularly for longer periods of time. “Studies have WWW.ANIMAMAG.COM

shown that regular meditators not only have more peace of mind and feel calmer and happier, but actually have biological markers indicating they are ageing less fast.” The key is regularity, not length. See if you can extend your daily session or have more short meditation breaks to help you power through your day. Now you have the tools to take a break from the barrage of thoughts that fill your mind. By focusing all your attention on just one thing, you engage fully and non-judgmentally. Once you’re done, you are able to refocus with greater concentration, acceptance, calmness and peace of mind – like recharging mental batteries. There may be other activities you do in daily life that enable you to reach a meditative state. Watch out for those, and harness them for the benefits they will give you. having Flow In fact, you can even get these benefits while working. If you’ve ever been ‘in the zone’ you’ll know what it’s like to be so thoroughly immersed in an activity that you lose your sense of time and sense of self, and afterwards feel calm and in control. Sound familiar? This experience of being ‘in the zone’ or ‘in the moment’ is called flow, a type of meditation that has been part of Hindu and Buddhist teaching for thousands of years. Flow was named and heavily studied by Professor Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, former head of the psychology department at the University of Chicago, and many other psychologists and neuroscientists since. According to Csikszentmihalyi, you can reach a state of flow at work when the task at hand fulfils several criteria: the goals are clear, there is immediate feedback (you know at any point how well you are doing at the task), and the challenge of the task matches your perceived skill level (which is based on confidence as well as actual skill). So it is not difficult to achieve flow as the work can be adjusted to fit the criteria above (such as breaking down the work into manageable tasks). But WWW.ANIMAMAG.COM

the workplace does contain its share of obstacles. Lucchetti points out that distractions from emails, chats and phone calls, pressures from unrealistic deadlines and sales targets, long working hours and lack of proper sunlight, make it harder to reach a flow state. Meditating Through Productivity Nevertheless, flow should be encouraged at work as, according to Csikszentmihalyi and other researchers, it makes employees happier and more fulfilled. When you are in flow at work, you are meditating through productivity. This results in fulfilment and motivation to do more and to do it well. Lucchetti says

flow provides “a sense of connectedness to the moment, a sense of being in the right place at the right time doing the right thing and doing it well. For this reason, flow boosts inner peace and in this sense it is de-stressing.” So the next time you crack down to work, adjust your surroundings to encourage flow. Disconnect from the internet for a while, turn off your phone, bypass the frustration and find fulfilment.

Heenu Nihalani is a freelance editor and copywriter specialising in corporate communications and creative writing. You can contact her at heenu.n@gmail.com. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

WHERE TO FIND A FREE COPY MID-LEVELS / SOHO Archie B’& El Taco Loco Bacar Balance Health Beyrouth Café Central Blossom Nails Bruch Club Cafe Lavande Cafe Protobello Cafe Punta del Cielo Capra Latte Caramba Mexican Cantina Club 1911 DM Hair Workshop Dymocks (Lyndhurst Terrace) Dynasty Court Eat Right Flow Bookshop FMH (The Face Magic Haven) Global Essence Hearty Restaurant Holly Brown Jaspas Ladies Recreation Club Let’s Relax Life Organic Health Cafe Lil Siam McSorley’s Ale House Nefertiti Orange Tree Restaurant Organic Baby Pacific Grill Phukets Thai Restaurant Posto Pubblico Power Plate Institute Rico Spanish Restaurant & Bar SoHo Junction Bar SohoWay Sole Mio Soho Square Staunton’s Wine Bar & Cafe Taco Loco Taequila Mexican Restaurant & Bar Taku Tala’s Hair The Garden Cafe Wagyu Wagyu Lounge Yo Fresh (Frozen Yogurt) Yogurtime CENTRAL 4D Wellbeing Centre Al’s Diner A Mother’s Touch Anahata Yoga Atria Properties Av Beauty Clinique Bit Point CancerLink Central Dance Studios CoCo Espresso Downtown Chiropractic Clinic Dragonfly Dymocks (Central Building) Dymocks (IFC) Euro Treat Foot Reflexology Health Care Centre of The Blind G Bar Goccia Ristorante Health Gate Helena May HYPOXI

JAR (Just-A-Restaurant) Just Salad Kinesiology Asia La Dolce Vita 97 La Fontaine Optimum Performance Studio Pangea- Wing Chun Kung Fu and Pilates Pickled Pelican Post 97 Seasons Fitness Shakti Healing Circle Soft Aroma Starbucks, HK Station Stormies Subway Sutherland Chan Centre The American Club The Dublin Jack The Elgin (Service Apartment) The Feel Good Factor The Hermitage Spa The Law Socierty of Hong Kong, Club House The Wheel Treasure View Service Apartments Uncle Eric’s Vintage Wine Bar Uncle Russ Coffee Vitality Center White Lotus Centre Yogurtime

LAI KING WAN(SOHO EAST) Berliner + Wildfire Jack’s Terrazza Ristorante Pure Massage Te

SHEUNG WAN Cafe Roma DEF Boxing Graze Cafe Homei Rebound Health The Bauhinia The Yoga Room

DISCOVERY BAY Caramba Mexican Cantina Discovery Bay Residents’ Club Dymocks (Discovery Bay) Hemingway’s By the Bay McSorley’s Ale House Uncle Russ Coffee Yogurtime

REPULSE BAY Bayley & Jackson Dental Surgeons Ltd. Dymocks (Repulse Bay) Ice Cream Gallery OT& P (Repulse Bay Practice) Southside Kindergarten Tam, Hulac & Partners Dental Ltd.

SAI KUNG Aguaplus AJ’s Sri Lankan Cuisine Allure Beauty and Health Anthony’s Ranch Bacco Classified Dymocks (Sai Kung) Firenze Restaurant Hebe Haven Yacht Club Italiano’s Restaurant & Bar JASPAS Oscar by the Sea Club House Pizzeria Pomodoro Poets Roccos Steak and Seafood Sabai Day Spa Sai Kung Animal Hospital Sai Kung Physiotherapy Sauce Shun Kee City Houseware Company Steamers Sushi TEN KU The Boozer White Black Caffe Ltd.

WANCHAI Al Dente Alliance Francaise Hong Kong American Women’s Association Amici Coyote Bar & Grill Dymocks (Harbour Centre) Ebeneezer’s Kebabs & Pizzeria Fat Angelo’s Flying Pan Jack’s Terrazza Ristorante JoJo’s Indian Cuisine Khana Khazana Let’s Spa Mes Amis Natalie Tong Private Practice Center Oyster Bar & Grill Pizza Express The Australian Association The Dynasty Club The Quarterdeck Club VIM Pilates Studio Yogurtime Zambra Cafe

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STANLEY Pickled Pelican Pizza Express ROCKSALT Seafront Spiaggia Squeeze Cafe Wildfire AP LEI CHAU Artura Ficus Attitude Ltd (Furniture & Interiors) Burnt Oringe Co.Ltd. Dormirest (The Nature of Beds) HC28 Life’s A Breeze Limestone Wines and Spirits Monde Chocolatier Patio Mart Pacific Gourmet Ltd. Rimba Rhyme Sift Patisserie The Aberdeen Marina Club Viva Italia Whiskers n Paws

ELEMENTS /TSIM SHA TSUI Bombay dreams Bliss Spa, W Hotel Dymocks (K11) El Pomposo Bar & Tapas Grand Central Bar & Grill Mes Amis Morthan Cure Physiotherapy Pacific Club Stormies Uncle Russ Coffee United Services Recreation Club CAUSEWAY BAY /HAPPY VALLEY A La Maison Restaurant & Bar Apartment O Asia Health Equipment Bodywise Pilates Brunch Club & Supper Burgeroom Cafe Corridor Dickens Bar Dymocks (Windsor House) Easyoga Evergreen Villa Gallery Café Hooray Bar & Restaurant Mackie Kitchen Mind Body Colon Cleansing Centre Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club Valley Fit Studio Your Health Compass Organic Baby ISLAND EAST,QUARRY BAY Asia Pacific Aromatherapy Café Pampernickel Frites Quarry Bay Neurofarmers TUNG CHUNG Skyline Physiotherapy Starz Wine Bar Kowloon Beacon Heights Caldecott Hill Club House Dickson Yoga Harbour Place Club House Holly Brown The Kowloon Cricket Club CAFE HABBITU Cityplaze Festival Walk Glocester Road GOD Hutchison House Miramar Pacific Place 3 The One, Elements

GOLD COAST,TUEN MUN Chilli N Spice Seafood Market Le Bristol French Restaurant Med Stars (Mediterranean Cuisine) Resto Restaurant

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Fix your cholesterol: Niacin is the “drug of choice” as it lowers total and bad Increase good HDL and lower bad LDL (risk ratio). Eat LDL 15 to 25 percent, reduces VLDL [bad] 25 to 35 % and eggs, butter, shrimp and animal oils / fats. raises the HDL [good] cholesterol levels by This is the source of good HDL cholesterol. as much as 15 to 25 percent. A 15 year follow • Isolated Low HDL Cholesterol As up study found an 11% reduction in all cause a Risk Factor for Coronary Heart mortality. - HARRISON’S: The Principals of Disease Internal Medicine, 14th Edition, Chapter 341. Mortality - A 21-Year Follow-up of (Niacinamide does not work - found in most 8000 Men. Heart disease death was multi-vitamins) 36% higher in those with low good Eat eggs HDL Cholesterol. (PMID9012644) Eat cocoa A study published January 7th, 2009 found • Low good HDL cholesterol linked to that a pro-biotic microorganism found in some ischemic heart disease – Ruth Frikkeacidophilus supplements could be as successful Schmidt, M.D., Ph.D, University of as drug therapy at improving cholesterol levels. Copenhagen, Denmark Acidophilus improves cholesterol levels. High cholesterol lowers cancer rate – Renfrew and Paisley Study We at Rebound Health are constantly on the Drink red wine. Lowers bad LDL lookout for ways to improve the quality of our Eat salmon cholesterol (PMID22153697) lives and recover from most health challenges. Eat cocoa / chocolate. Must be 72% or Our approach is mostly through diet and food based higher and most dark or black chocolate is only 50-55% to supplements. Contact us through the Internet or in person make it just a candy and not a health benefit. for individual consultations. 28 healthy volunteers consuming flavanol-rich dark cocoa References are found as links on the web site; for one week. Their bad cholesterol (LDL) fell 6% and www.reboundhealth.com the good cholesterol (HDL) went up 9%.- Johns Hopkins Bryon’s Articles University / Sinai Hospital Program in Internal Medicine, Cholesterol is bad: Fact or Fiction Baltimore.

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

HEALTH

Have an

itch-free new year

Numerous factors affect the chance of suffering the symptoms of eczema, including family history, allergy to food and chemicals and our surroundings. BY Azure Lorraine

There are

so many advantages to the bright lights of the city and the whirlwind life for all of us on the go. While we are lucky to reap the benefits of life in the fast lane, however, it does come with some irritants. For the blissfully unaware, eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammation of the skin which causes irritated, red, dry, flaky and inflamed skin. Eczema is a type of dermatitis. Dermatitis can affect various areas of your face, lips, hands and body. Hand dermatitis, which is also called ‘Housewife’s Hands’ and eczema are some of

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the most common dermatological complaints in Hong Kong. In a 2000 study conducted by the Social Hygiene Service, Department of Health of Hong Kong, it was extrapolated that, among school children investigated, 6.8% suffered from eczema and that 70% of the children “with symptomatic skin problems did not seek medical attention”. Several studies conducted by Hong Kong doctors and universities show a link between eczema and asthma, food allergies as well as acute rhinitis. Hopefully, following the tips in this article will help ease your conditions.

What triggers eczema? Numerous factors affect the chance of suffering the symptoms of eczema, including family history, allergy to food and chemicals and our surroundings: External factors

Dust and allergens

Dust and allergens are often found in polluted environments and common households. Dust mites, moulds, flower pollens, animal hair can aggravate eczema. Children’s stuffed toys, carpets, rugs and beddings inhibit dust mites easily. WWW.ANIMAMAG.COM

Temperature and Humidity

Internal factors

Food Allergies

While high temperature and humidity can cause over-sweating and overheating, cold and dry weather dehydrates skin and leads to cracking.

Food additives such as sulfites and MSG may aggravate eczema conditions. Some people might develop eczema because of the allergic reactions to food such as milk, eggs, peanuts, soybeans, seafood and fruit with seeds.

Occupational Routines

Professionals that have direct and constant contact with chemicals and water, such as nurses, hair stylists, bartenders, chefs, manual workers in chemical and printing companies have a higher chance of developing hand dermatitis.

Stress

Stress elevates the severity of eczema. Some people response to stress by scratching the infected areas. You might feel that by scratching the infected areas will relieve the itching. On a contrary, fingernails contain bacteria which makes the itching and infection worse.

Detergents

Bleach and detergents for household are industrial cleansers, and are filled with chemicals which can dry and damage your skin. Biological detergents are known trigger factors and fabric conditioners can make some peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eczema worse.

Latex

Latex in rubber gloves can trigger an allergic reaction to skin. It tends to make the skin dry, itchy, and more sensitive to irritants.

Chemicals

Chemicals in common skin care products worsen eczema conditions. Most of the commercial soaps and skin care products contain chemicals which remove the natural oils from the skin. You should avoid any skin care products which contain the following: Mineral Oil

Mineral oil, despite its deceptively natural sounding name, is a byproduct of petroleum production. Because of its extremely low cost, it is a common ingredient used by many manufacturers in products such as baby oil and Vaseline. Mineral oils clog pores and stop skin from being able to breathe and release toxins. WWW.ANIMAMAG.COM

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, (or SLS) is used by manufacturers in making shampoos, shower gels, soaps and other bath products to uplift the lather level. Dr Richard Guy, a professor of University of Bath at the Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, published a study in the British Journal of Dermatology in regard to the impact of SLS on eczema sufferers. He found that rubbing cream containing SLS into the skin will thin its protective barrier, making the skin more disposed to irritation. He estimated that 30% of the population in UK suffers from eczema due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, such as exposure to pollutants and toxins. Dr Guy suggested that eczema patients should not use paraffin-based moisturizers that contain SLS. Fragrance Oils

Unlike essential oils, fragrance oils are made synthetically. Many people are sensitive to fragrance and by using products with such additives, your skin becomes more vulnerable to allergies.

Is eczema curable? To this date, there is no medical treatment which will cure eczema permanently. Although eczema never truly goes away, the good news is that there are a lot of options to seize the conditions and gradually improve your skin quality. Road to recovery â&#x2C6;&#x2019; Healing and prevention First of all, if you are suffering from eczema or any dermatological conditions, do consult your doctor immediately. Eczema worsens overtime without treatment. Depending on the chronic levels of your eczema, creams that contain steroids will cease inflammation and soothe itching. With the right dosage of steroids, your conditions should improve in a week or two. Moisturizing the topical skin will help the wounds from being dry. If you are worried that you or your child might have food allergies exacerbated by eczema, you can order a patch test from a dermatologist to find out what exactly you are allergic to. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

HEALTH

While making lifestyle changes might seem bothersome, getting the right treatments and care for your eczema will ease the disturbance and frustration which prevent your conditions from getting worse. Once the infections heal and subside, it is all about prevention:

A Six-step guide to minimizing maddening eczema

• Avoid contact with possible allergens and triggers Avoid any direct contacts with chemicals, detergents and cleansers. If you have to, wear non-latex gloves. After that, you should rinse your hands and apply moisturizers immediately. Keep your household dust free. Stuffed toys, carpets, rugs and beddings should be cleaned regularly to reduce the accumulation of dust and mites. Avoid direct contact with acidic food such as lemons and tomatoes. • Read your labels Avoid using products which contains chemicals such as SLS, SLES, Paraben and alcohol. Choose products which are made of natural botanical ingredients instead. Chemical free products not only are better for your skin, a lot of the natural botanical ingredients will improve your skin quality. While shea butter, olive oil and castor oil are all perfect choices for sensitive and dry skin, chamomile, lavender and patchouli essential oils will help soothe the redness and itchiness. These ingredients will help replenish your skin

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and give dry and cracked skin a speedy recovery. Drinking chamomile tea will also help you relax and lessen the desire to scratch. • Love green and healthy fats A healthier and greener diet will benefit both your health and skin quality. Avoid junk food. Cut down red meat, sugar and refined carbohydrates such as white flour and sugar, saturated fats and dairy products. Quite often eczema develops due to food allergies. Record your meals in a food diary will help you recognize the food you are allergic to. Allergic symptoms usually develop within 6-24 hours after eating the trigger food. Olive oil, salmon, white lean meats and avocado are great for those who fight against eczema as they contain high levels of fatty acid. • Constant hydration Apply chemical-free moisturiz-

ers after bathing and frequently throughout the day. Moisturizers will keep your skin softened. One of the reasons why eczema is so difficult to heal is because of the dryness and cracks. • De-stress Relaxation exercises and practice such as yoga and meditation will help reduce stress level and subside the desire to scratch. • Wear gloves to bed Wear cotton gloves to avoid scratching in your sleep. Even if you scratch during sleeping, there will be no direct contact with your skin and fingernails. Fingernails contain bacteria which can worsen eczema infections. Patience is key to treating eczema. While making lifestyle changes might seem bothersome, getting the right treatments and care for your eczema will ease the disturbance and frustration which prevent your conditions from getting worse. Start treating and experiencing the options that will lead you to an eczema and stress-free life.

Azure Lorraine is the founder of Capra Latte, an organic body care company based in Hong Kong. She enjoys handcrafting and takes her inspiration from nature. You can reach her at info@ capralatte.com. WWW.ANIMAMAG.COM

RELATIONSHIPS

Ways

to Be Romantic on the Cheap Every day can be made a special and romantic day if we give some thoughts to it. by Leo Babauta

Often my articles on family are about spending time with your kids, but today we’ll talk about another important aspect of families: couples. If you’ve got a significant other, I highly recommend you keep the spark of your relationship alive and find ways to show you appreciate each other, every week and every day, if possible. Look for little, inexpensive ways to be romantic, and it will pay off for your relationship in innumerable ways. Why inexpensive? Well, you could rent a limo and take your love to a snooty French restaurant, or whisk him or her off to a trip to the snow-capped Alps, or rent a stadium and have the Three Tenors sing love songs for you while the New York Philharmonic plays in the background. I don’t know about you, but I can’t afford to do that kind of stuff more than a few times a month. The rest of the time, I have to resort to cheaposity. Before we get into the list, let’s look at a few notes on how to use the list: Weekly dates. I recommend you have a date at least WWW.ANIMAMAG.COM

once a week with your partner. It doesn’t have to be an expensive one, but at least find some way to spend a couple of hours’ time together. If you’ve got kids, like I do, find a babysitter. Communicate. Romantic gestures don’t take the place of real communication. Take time to talk about your goals, your dreams, your plans for the future, your current lives, things you’re happy about, things you love about the other person, things you’d like to work on, things you’re grateful for. Inspiration. This list contains a lot of obvious stuff — you could probably come up with twice as many good ideas yourself. But the list doesn’t aim for originality — it aims to be an inspiration. Pick and choose some good ideas, or use it to spark some of your own. Sometimes we just need a little reminder. Forget Valentines. Boycott Valentine’s Day, as it makes people think they should be romantic onspecial occasions. Instead, pick one of these ideas and do it any day of the week — no need for a special occasion.

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RELATIONSHIPS

Let’s look at some ways to be romantic without breaking your budget: 21. Kiss in the rain. 1. Write a poem. 22. Ride a ferris wheel. 2. Cook a romantic dinner. 23. Sneak away from a party and make out. 3. Give a full-body massage. 24. Bring home great take-out, and light 4. Pack a sunset picnic. some candles. 5. Pick wildflowers on the way home. 25. Fix something or fix up the house just 6. Burn a CD with love songs. to make your partner happy. 7. Give dark chocolates. 26. Slow dance to romantic music. 8. Read poetry together. 27. Take a nap together. 9. Prepare strawberries with fondue 28. Kiss slowly, touching his or her back and chocolate. neck and nape — slowly. 10. Snuggle together on a rainy day. 29. Make a list of everything you love about 11. Leave little love notes everywhere. him or her. 12. Send a love email every day. 30. Write a love letter. 13. Take a moonlit walk on the beach. 31. Clip or email things that make you 14. Snuggle together while watching think of him or her, every day. romantic movies (Casablanca, Audrey 32. Go to a movie, ignore the movie, and Hepburn are my favs). make out like teen-agers. 15. Get good wine, watch shooting stars. 33. Groom yourself, and try to look good 16. Take a bath together (use bubbles!). for your partner. 17. Bring home good coffee or a decadent sweet. 18. Take a walk down memory lane — visit some of the special places from your early days of dating. 19. Make warm chocolate cake for dessert. 20. Make a scrapbook with photos, mementos, and little notes from you lives together.

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Pick and choose some good ideas, or use it to spark some of your own. Sometimes we just need a little reminder. 34. Take some quiet time and talk about your day. 35. Write little notes, one for each way he or she drives you crazy. 36. Feed each other grapes. 37. Recreate your partner’s favorite romantic movie scene. 38. Pretend you’re going on a first date — show up at the door with flowers, all dressed up, with your car washed and cleaned, looking spiffy. Recreate the first time. 39. Create a little box with a bunch of your partner’s favorite things inside. 40. Paint each other with flavored body paint. Be creative! 41. Try some sexy role-playing. Get dressed up, be daring, have fun. 42. Give a little token to your partner to wear, and say it’s to remind him or her all day that you love them.

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43. Sing a favorite song to him or her. Only do this if you can sing fairly well. 44. Bake a cake for your partner and celebrate somthing. 45. Hold hands, and walk somewhere with lots of pretty lights. 46. Say I love you. In a different way, every day. 47. Blindfold your partner. Use a feather. Slowly. 48. Declare your love, very publicly. 49. Fruit or berries and freshly made whipped cream. 50. Go to the beach or the park.

This article is written by Leo Babauta. The article first appeared in www.zenhabits.net and is reprinted with permission.

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TRAVEL

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A look inside

Urumqi, China

By Kevin Ma

Everything below me on my five-hour flight from Guangzhou to Urumqi was covered in white cloud. Urumqi, the largest city in Western China, is the capital of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, and it sits like an oasis in the middle of a vast land mass that takes up one-sixth of China. The city has become even more of a mystery since a large-scale race-related riot in 2008 (which killed almost 200 people) led to a total blackout of internet and international phone services for several months. There are very few comprehensive guides to the city, and everything else was told to me by F, my travel companion and an Urumqi native. While many see this faraway land as another world, it is home to her regardless of its current instability. I really should have listened to what F said Urumqi − that summer is the best time to go to there. This came about to me when I immediately received a rude awakening in the form of a frozen breeze blowing on my face as I left the plane. According to F, Urumqi could become as cold as -20 degrees Celsius and we would not see a flake of snow in the winter. I was a little luckier, as temperatures were already up to -10 degrees, and the ground was covered in muddy snow for almost every day when I was there. “It’s warmer when it snows,” said F in an assuring tone. However, as I was there for the Lunar New Year holidays, the warmth of Urumqi was not outdoors, but inside people’s homes. During the Lunar New Year, many Han WWW.ANIMAMAG.COM

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TRAVEL Chinese Urumqi residents – both migrant workers and those native to other areas in Xinjiang – would leave the city and return home to celebrate with their families. This did not apply to F’s family, whose parents are both natives who have been in or near Urumqi for generations. We visited both her parents’ families. I, being the foreign guest from Hong Kong, was given the best food that Xinjiang has to offer. Xinjiang LAMB And if Xinjiang has plenty of anything, it’s lamb. It can be done in all kinds of ways, and it’s eaten so often by both the local Uyghur and Han Chinese (whose version of Xinjiang-style Chinese cuisine were influenced by the Uyghurs) populations. Xinjiang lamb has a strong flavor, but after having an average of at least one lamb dish a day - ranging from noodles to lamb buns - I was in love with Xinjiang lamb by the time I left. Along with food, a Xinjiangian gathering also offers plenty of life’s other two most addictive vices: tobacco and alcohol. Like tobacco, alcohol is a social lubricant at friendly gatherings in China. Everyone has an excuse for a toast at a meal, whether it is a welcome, a farewell, a sign of respect, a wish for health, or just a simple drink for a drink’s sake. Make sure you can hold in your drink before you start, though; the going

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rate is one shot glass of strong clear wine a toast, and there’s no backing out once you have started, as the custom is to show your empty glass once you’ve finished. Although most cities operate on Beijing time, Xinjiang is geographically two hours behind the capital. That means one can still take a daytime stroll after an early dinner, as the sun would not set until 7pm in the winter, and 9pm in the summer (That also means the sun doesn’t rise until around 8:30am, giving many an excuse to sleep in). However, I was a little disappointed to find that I couldn’t do any after-dinner shopping during my trip as most stores in the city center (except the cinemas) are closed during the holidays. On the other hand, if you make your way southward past the Nanmen area, you will find plenty of life in the area near the International Grand Bazaar, where many of the city’s Uyghur population congregate. Business AS Usual As the Uyghurs don’t celebrate the Lunar New Year, everything in Uyghurpopulated areas remains business as usual − restaurants are packed, shops are opened, and people go about their everyday lives. As the rest of Urumqi resemble a normal major Chinese city, anyone looking for the exoticism of Xinjiang can find it in and near the Bazaar, which houses shops that sells everything Uyghur − from ethnic clothing to handcrafted jewelry to traditional musical instruments. Just remember to

bargain and bargain persistently in order to get a fair price. Of course, with people comes traffic frustrations, especially in a country as populated as China and a city as large as Urumqi. A taxi I rode in drove right into a heavy traffic jam just outside the Bazaar on the fourth day of the new year holiday, causing the Han Chinese taxi driver to bitterly joke, “This is the only place in Urumqi with a traffic jam right now!” A UNIQUE WORLD Despite the underlying tension that still exists beyond the two major ethnic groups, there’s no doubt that the two sides have considerably influenced each other’s way of life throughout the years of co-existence; the Uyghur language is essentially the official second language of the region, as they are literally on every sign in Urumqi, and signs of Uyghur culture – mainly in food - can be found all over the city. While Urumqi operates like any other major Chinese city on the surface, a closer look would reveal that it very much exists as a unique world that’s different from any other city in the country. In other words, Urumqi is at once China and not quite China, and that dilemma makes the city all the more worth visiting. Kevin Ma is a writer based in Hong Kong. His main interest is film criticism and scriptwriting. He currently works as an Assistant English Editor and writes film critiques as well.

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CAreer Corner

How to

breathe life into your dreams?

As a coach, the part of my work which

I love most is to be a “dream pusher” – helping clients dream about their dreams and make it a reality! The reward we both achieve in this is tremendous!! It’s a very simple process – once my clients have a sketch of the dream, day after day we work together with positivity and enthusiasm towards it. Oh! The sweet rewards of it – makes life even more meaningful, fulfilling and balanced! “The purpose of life is a life of purpose!” Dreams are made up of different shapes and sizes and from all spheres of life – to having an ideal job/career, to have a perfect body, to be in the perfect relationship, to have adequate saving etc. A meaningful dream when it comes true, fills our life with peace and happiness. There is a lot of joy in the process of achieving the dream as well. So the journey is as important or

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

Career Corner enjoyable as the destination itself ! That to me, is a true test of a “worthwhile dream” in our life! It’s pretty simple! Once we work hard towards our goal with all our heart and soul, we are in the “flow” of things – the energy (chi) in the Universe is focused on that goal; everything and everyone seems to conform towards the dream! We are no longer then “burdened” by the responsibility of accomplishing it by ourselves ….. Surprising isn’t it?! It is for the whole Universe to help to make the dream happen! How exciting! The “dreamer” becomes aware of how the “dots connect” in the Universe – it’s almost like magic! You may or may not be a believer in “destiny”, but when this happens, one is bound to become more humble and accept the “magic” in a wholehearted way! Does that mean that failure and difficulties don’t come across the path? “Life is simple, it’s just not easy!” There are of course little and big bumps on the way, but when you are chasing your dream,

Friction is a necessary part of all movement, isn’t it? 4 steps of dreaming:

1. Discover (Awareness):

Ask yourself what do you really want? What will make you really happy? Why is this so important to you? What gives you a “tingling” feeling in your heart and soul when you hear about or see someone “living” YOUR dream? Can you recognise this special feeling and the “urge” to BE in that person’s shoes? How much it really “hurts” not to follow your dream? What do you really “gain” if that milestone is achieved? The above questions will definitely give you inroads into some of your thoughts which do not surface usually, or inner voice that you do not hear because you are enclosed in a “box” and trapped in patterns of “should be”! It is a new awareness of what your dream is!

2. Dream (Breathing life into your dreams):

you love the energy, the passion that surges through yourself, the creativity that makes you feel so “alive and fresh” (and young?)…..what more?! You also have the “power” to deal with the hiccups.

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Close your eyes and think about what it means to achieve the goal? Define it in your thoughts. Does it have colours, shape, size, space, voices? Who are the people in it? What are they saying? How do you feel when you are in the dream? A few tips to “breathe life into your dream”: • Increase the texture and details you are able to put into the “dream” in your visualisation (like you increase the colour contrast or turn up the volume in your TV). • Write a journal of your initial thoughts, draw sketches or pictures of your dream. • Collect brochures or information snippets from Internet or any other medium to increase information level (if familiarity and awareness needs to be increased) • Speak to more people about your “dream”

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as a sounding board (beware of the persons you choose to divulge the “dream” to, as there could be some negative implications of the reactions from people like – demotivate, ridicule, disbelieve etc) It is also important to envisage some kind of timeline for the dream and break it up into “small, medium and long term” period. And also remember what are some of the milestones for the small, medium and and long term period so that you can celebrate it!

3. Design (Ideas /light bulbs/Brainstorming):

Now it’s time to brainstorm! Put your pen to paper and write down all the ideas and thoughts that come to your mind around making your dream a reality. Don’t eliminate any ideas – Put all in “black and white” and evaluate what each option means and what it can do for you. You can also think of every person who can provide you with any support on information on the path to reaching your dream. Don’t limit yourself in anyway – in the new age where we are so well connected, there is a way to reach out to every corner of the world and to reach out to every person you can think of !

With each option keep a chart as to where it is leading you to? Where it can lead you further? The road ahead is leading you to the rainbow- “Just walk it”!

The 4-D model, based on Appreciative Inquiry (term coined by David Cooperrider), is an organisational and personal development method to renew, change and improve performance based on focusing on the “strengths” rather than improving on deficiencies. From a learning and development expert to a career coach, Soma Vajpayee had a career transition when she moved to Hong Kong in 2010. Today, Soma works mostly with expatriates and their spouses to help them develop a career that is more than a job. Soma’s e-mail address is soma. vajpayee@progressu.com. For more information, please go to the website: http://www.progressu. com/solutions/career-coaching.php.

4. Deliver (Dare to “jump” and track):

Be mindful of the fact that there will be some difficulties in some options but “dare” anyway to take the step forward.

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2012

ENJOY GUIDE

Become what you train

Easyoga x So…Soap Valentine’s Chocolate Soap DIY Making Workshop Date: 11 Feb 2012 (Sat) Time: 2 - 4pm Duration: 2 hours Location: Easyoga HK Showroom, 2/F, 17 Yun Ping Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Cost: HKD480 per person / HKD800 per couple This Valentine’s... We invite you to gift green! You can buy many things, but you cannot buy “love”. There is no better way to show your love to present a gift that is handmade by yourself. So...Soap brings you the Valentine’s Chocolate Soap Workshop as a memorable eco green experience for you and your loved one. [During the Workshop] • So...Soap Gift Green Movement • DIY Valentine Soap made with Shea Butter & Cacao Powder to take home • A ready-made Cacao Shea butter bar soap • 1 Serve of Vegan Organic Hot Chocolate Drink (Dairy Free) during the workshop There’s limited space so please register at eve@sosoap.com (6449 3455) or om@easyoga.com.hk (2983 2130)

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Zen Warrior Training • 90 minutes private training with Benoit Foucher • Register now for 50% off (first 2 sessions) • More information www.benoitfoucher. com/zenwarrior Zen Warrior Training is a personalized bodymind training to make you intelligent in your body and fit in your mind, or the other way around! A Zen Warrior is an energetic person with the will-power and courage to give his/ her best while remaining aware and confident at the same time. Real champions are not only fit, composure is an essential character which keep their mind calm and tranquil in any given condition. It is the ideal state-of-mind to find solution for overcoming obstacles. Train your body and your mind hard and smart. To experience it, contact Benoit 9651 8536 or benoit@benoitfoucher.com

If your organization has any upcoming events and you would like to invite our readers to participate, please sendyour information to advertise@animamag.com.

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