Balms for the Soul & Play my way with polymer clay

Balms for the Soul

Courtesy of their passive remedial qualities, balms have been in use for centuries by communities worldwide. A mix of oils, wax, and butter, these balms are thick enough to create a protective barrier for our skin, acting as a shield against the elements. Their refinement over the years has led to the inclusion of other ingredients with other beneficial properties. This is of no surprise to most people. What is surprising (to me anyway!), was the discovery of Soulistic Garden, which has been around in Sarawak since 2018. Hand crafting a variety of balms to promote healthy living through the use of natural remedies, there are currently 6 different types made for differing scenarios. The sleep balm promotes a good snooze, and the calm balm (well played) is a mood aid. The hand, belly and pediheal balms help with the physical repair of cracked skin, further boosted by lavender, Myrrh, and lemon infusions. It certainly sounds fancy to those of us who are strangers to natural remedies, but these ingredients are all supplements that over a long duration of time have been proven to improve quality of health ever so slightly. The best seller without any doubt is the eczema balm. Given the intensity of our tropical climate, this small portable balm offers relief to many with this condition. Check it out! •• IG: @soulistic_garden Tel: 6013-8117878

Play my Way with Polymer Clay

I have a question everyone. Have you ever seen a product that was aimed at a specific gender, but because it was so lovingly designed and painstakingly handcrafted that you (who happened to be the opposite gender) felt a little left out for not being part of that target market? In this progressive day and age this is an issue that is increasingly irrelevant as we all, by right, should be allowed to adorn ourselves with what we choose. Traditionally however, despite the accessories created by Arthirah.mj falling under the category of women’s jewellery, her creations are so lovely that I want some for myself. She has been doing this for a decade now and experience has certainly seen her skillset grow as the bracelets, earrings, necklaces, and rings she makes are gorgeous. Working primarily with clay and tiles, embellished with precious stones, attached to slender golden and silver chains, her range of accessories are impressive to say the least. The tiles series in particular have such strong Mediterranean vibes which is an aesthetic that screams a simple elegance full of history and culture. Engaging in multiple collaborations with other designers whose artworks adorn several of her pieces, and getting her inspiration from myriad sources, a simple scroll through her feed reveals the evolution she has undergone from simple clay art to genuinely mature offerings that are often pretty and impressive. •• IG: @arthirah.mj Msha.ke/arthirah.mj/