Liv Magazine February 2020

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FEBRUARY 2020 | l i v - m a g a z i n e . co m LIV MAGAZINE

HONG KONG’S WELLNESS MAGAZINE

Taipei 411

Your itinerary for a well weekend

Hey Sweetie

Healthier chocolates for your Valentine

Climate Crusaders

We speak to Extinction Rebellion Hong Kong

CALL OF THE WILD Inside the medical movement to prescribe nature

WIN a month-long gym membership and an aromatherapy travel set on p.17!

FEBRUARY 05 Editor’s Letter

LIV | NEWS 06 Wishlist

Lovely things we want right now

08 It’s a Date

Events for your diary

12 Hot Right Now

New happenings on the wellness scene

14 Fresh Cuts

Guilt-free chocolate treats

16 Cheat Day

Because #YOLO

18 Reviews

A high-tech facial massager from FOREO, and a visit to Asaya

LIV | STORIES

28 Plan Based

Pen and paper make a comeback with next-gen daily planners

LIV | MORE 34 Recipe

Vegan chocolate chip cookies

36 Pamper

Take a peep at these next-level eyelash bars

38 Taipei Trippin'

A healthy weekend getaway in Taiwan's capital

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42 Travel

Unusual romantic getaways to surprise your loved one

46 Family

Crafty clubs and classes for kids

20 Vitamin Tree

Why doctors are writing prescriptions for time in nature

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38

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EDITOR’S LETTER

SNOW PLACE LIKE HOME

I

’m writing this editor’s letter from the snowy peaks of Whistler, British Columbia. Over the next few days, I’ll be subjecting myself to a slew of snowprefixed activities, such as snowboarding, snowshoeing and, the best of them all, snowangel-ing. While many around me might complain about the sub-zero temperatures and endless snowfall, I’m actually feeling pretty good about it.

Yes, my right thumb periodically loses all sensation when we’re outside, and yes, I’m wearing every single pair of socks I brought with me so walking five minutes is just about bearable.

But I’ve always loved being outside, even in the winter. I consider myself very lucky to come from this part of the world, and memories of heading to the mountains for a weekender on the slopes always brings me to a happy place.

That’s no coincidence, as I found out when I started to write our cover story about nature prescriptions. Being outdoors has so many beneficial effects on our physical and mental health that doctors here in BC (as well as around the world) are starting to prescribe their patients time in nature as a form of medical treatment. Learn more about the trend on p.20.

Did you know Taiwan has one of the highest rates of reported vegetarianism in the world? If you’re in the mood for a healthy weekend away, Taipei is just a quick 1.5-hour flight away and offers meditation centres, yoga retreats, hiking trails and plant-based dining options galore. Read more about that on p.38.

We also rounded up our favourite daily planners (to get organised) on p.30 and lash bars (to get fab) on p.36, hopefully helping you all feel and look your best as you go into the Year of the Rat. Gong hey fat choi, everyone!

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS

Zoe Belhomme gets crafty with her favourite art clubs and classes for children on p.46.

Kate Springer thinks outside the heart-shaped bonbon box, with unique romantic travel adventures on p.42.

Sarah Fung has an eyeopening experience in the city’s best eyelash bars on p.36.

Sally Victoria Benson tries a decadent chocolate spa treatment and Macau’s hottest new pastry spot on p.44.

Erin Hale finds Taipei has a hidden health & wellness culture to explore on p.38.

ON THE COVER

CARLA THOMAS

Model: Jasmine Nunns Photographer: Lemontea Photography

EDITOR

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Send invites and info to: Makerhive, 10/F, Cheung Hing Industrial Building, 12P Smithfield, Kennedy Town PUBLISHER SARAH FUNG DIRECTOR OF PARTNERSHIPS JO ROBINSON SENIOR SALES MANAGER ANSHU RIJHWANI EDITOR CARLA THOMAS WRITER ZOE BELHOMME SOCIAL MEDIA STACEY MARCELO ADMINISTRATOR JASMIN BLUNCK GRAPHIC DESIGN TAMMY TAN CONTRIBUTORS KATE SPRINGER, ERIN HALE, SALLY VICTORIA BENSON PRINTED BY GEAR PRINTING LIMITED, ROOM B, 3/F, DERRICK INDUSTRIAL BUILDING, 49-51 WONG CHUK HANG ROAD, ABERDEEN ‘‘Liv Magazine’’ Copyright 2020 Liv Media Limited. The content provided here is the property of Liv Media Limited and may not be reproduced in any part without the written permission of the Publisher. The information provided by Liv Media Limited’s contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or the company. The information provided by Liv Media Limited, or its staff, advertisers and contributors is given in good faith; readers should gather more information before making the decision to purchase any goods or services highlighted here. Liv Media Limited will not be held responsible for any action, omission or error resulting from actions taken on the basis of the information provided here. Please seek the approval of a doctor before following any health advice.

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Retail Therapy

WISHLIST

Here's what we're crushing on this month

CLIP ART

No piercings? No problem! These clip-on vintage earrings sourced by online shop Days Like Laura are almost unbearably stylish, with no annoying earring backs to keep track of. $340 from dayslikelaura.com

EYE OPENER

Colour us bedazzled by these kaleidoscopic Fenty eyeshadow palettes from undisputed queen of everything, Rihanna. $208 each or $375 for two, at Sephora

BEEHIVE YOURSELF

PLATE UP

These pretty dessert plates come in a set of four and make for a lovely housewarming gift. $800 from houseofaurum.com 6

Put down some roots in this white terracotta planter, with an intricately hand-carved honeycomb design that’s got us all abuzz. $195 from TREE

Retail Therapy

MELLOW HELLO

Part coat rack, part greeting, this colourful hanger feeds two birds with one scone when welcoming guests. $528 from MoMA Design Store, K11 MUSEA

FLOWER POWER

A dozen red roses is so last decade. These fresh-from-the-fields style bouquets are made from seasonal flowers and foliage, and come wrapped in reusable burlap and a canvas tote, cutting down on wasteful plastic packaging.

Bouquets starting at $650 from Floristry at M&L

PARIS JE T’AIME

Inspired by the flower markets of Paris, this limited edition rose-scented candle from luxury parfumier Diptyque smells divine and looks très chic with fetching Art Nouveau artwork. $575 from diptyqueparis.com

HAPPY FEET

Made entirely from plant-based and recyclable materials, these mint trainers are green in more ways than one.

US$95 from LANE EIGHT 7

Calendar

IT’S A DATE FEB 17-24

WELCOME TO WELLNESS WEEK! Hong Kong’s first ever Wellness Week kicks off across the city this month! Love a good sweat sesh, or just looking to get pampered?

You’ll find deals and events related to all aspects of health and fitness in a whirlwind week of well-deserved wellness celebration!

With more than 25 special offers available, as well as dozens of events to attend, make sure you mark your diaries so you don’t miss out on any of the action. Partners include The Upper House, Kerry Hotel Hong Kong, ClassPass and lululemon. Check the website to browse the rest of the deals! wellnessweek.hk

FEB 15

LOVE TO RUN Romantic dinner for two on Valentine’s?

That’s for wusses. The Valentine’s Day Race from Trail Hub is a trail race starting on Lantau, offering two race routes to choose from. Tough Love is a 14+k course that comes with lots of climbing, but with rewarding views from Lo Yan Shan on the Chi Ma Wan Peninsula. For something with a little less elevation, the 9k Easy Love route heads out along the coast and offers a less strenuous run. Partnerships of all forms are welcome; there’s even a category for mums and dads to get involved with the kids. You’ll find the start and end point of the race at Treasure Island on Pui O Beach. Entry costs $550 per team. thetrailhub.com/valentinesdayrace 8

Calendar

FEB 15-16

DESIGN DISTRICT Hosted at the West Kowloon Art Park, Freespace Outdoors is a community-focused event packed with entertainment suitable for all ages. Expect free music and dance performances, art installations, a community exercise event, screenings and workshops taking place throughout the weekend - all against the backdrop of Hong Kong’s iconic skyline! Best of all, it’s totally free (exactly what it says on the tin) but registration will be required for selected workshops.

Open 2-8pm on Saturday and 2-9pm on Sunday. Freespace Livehouse and Art Park, West Kowloon Cultural District. westkowloon.hk

FEB 22

FITNESS FIESTA FEB 21-23

GREEN GATHERING Head down to the plant-powered Vegetarian Food Asia trade show and explore the latest trending superfoods, plant-based meat products, as well as lots of other veggie innovations all under one roof. Learn about the latest developments in the industry through talks, workshops and live demos and come away at the end of the day with some genuine “food for thought.”

Co-working space The Hive was one of the first in Hong Kong to organise a fully-fledged wellness retreat, and this year it’s back and better than ever! The Hive’s Wellness Retreat features yoga, meditation, fitness classes and workshops, plus healthy food, drinks and products at the marketplace. It’s free to attend, but you’ll need to pay for tickets to specific classes or workshops. As of press time, ticketing information wasn’t yet available, but check online at their Facebook event page for updates on schedule and pricing.

10am- 4pm, The Hive Sheung Wan, 3/F, 33-35 Hillier St., Sheung Wan. More info at bit.ly/2RlP7cD

Free entry (register online before you go). HKCEC, 1 Harbour Rd., Wan Chai, vegfoodasia.com.

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Calendar

BOOK IT NOW MAR 22

OCEAN AND OUT Join this year’s Run for Survival, an annual obstacle race organised by the Ocean Park Conservation Foundation in support of Marine Conservation. Do your best baby shark impression and complete missions and challenges around Pak Shek Kok Promenade to save our marine animals. The obstacle run is suitable for runners of all ages and abilities - the 10km individual Timed Challenge can be completed individually or in a team while beginners or families might prefer the 3k Fun Run. Entry costs $300 for individuals in the 3k distance and $380 for the 10k distance.

A minimum donation to the charity is also requested in addition to the registration fee.

Pak Shek Kok Promenade, Sha Tin. opcf.org.hk/en/

FEB 4-12

FEB 29

Want to curate your own conscious wardrobe in 2020? Head on down to the Get Redressed Secondhand Pop-up Shop and get your fill of quality secondhand and sample stock garments donated to the charity through last year’s Get Redressed Clothing Drive. The carefully curated popup will stock a range of men’s, women’s, and children's clothes and accessories from designer, vintage and high street brands in a variety of sizes. Prices start at a wallet-friendly $50, plus you’ll be raising money for a cause dedicated to reducing textile waste.

Grab your bat-shorts, because Hong Kong’s first-ever Batman Night Run is taking place at the end of the month! Celebrating 80 years of the beloved DC comic, this 4.3k fun run sees participants dressing up as either Batman, Harley Quinn or The Joker to complete an easy route around West Kowloon.

RAGS TO RICHES

Open daily 10am-9pm. The Annex, 173 Des Voeux Road Central. redress.com.hk 10

HOLY SNEAKERS, BATMAN!

6-9pm. $480 for kids; $580 for adults. hybridticketing.com

Connect with your body

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Cool Stuff

HOT RIGHT NOW News from the wellness scene

FUZE & FURIOUS

Looking for a new workout to test your limits? Pure has just launched FUZE, a boutique studio concept at their Kinwick Centre location that combines strength, boxing, cardio and functional high intensity training. The sessions are full of CrossFit-style exercises that are designed to exhaust, with bear crawls and burpees mixed in with ball slams and boxing, and capped off with treadmill sprints to max out your heart rate. Each class is designed to push your body to new limits so it’s recommended that participants exercise regularly, have a solid level of fitness, and be ready to work. Classes are available to all Pure cardholders with access to Kinwick Centre. Not a Pure cardholder? Not a problem. Non-members can also drop in for $350 per class, which includes the use of Pure Kinwick Centre for the rest of the day. pure-fitness.com.

EARTH TO YOGIS

With bamboo flooring, naturally sourced mats, eco-friendly heating panels and pollution-busting plants, Be Earth Yoga doesn’t just look beautiful, it has some serious green credentials too. Even though it’s located right in the centre of the city, the new boutique studio in Central has taken inspiration from natural elements to create a space that helps students feel calmer, more energised and ultimately more grounded.

The wide range of classes are purposefully kept small so that teachers can provide individual instruction or guidance whenever it’s required. The studio also offers a full range of props including organic bolsters and straps, recycled foam blocks and super soft blankets made from natural fibres, as well as all natural hair, body and skincare products.

2/F, On Building, 162 Queen’s Road Central, 2833-5323, facebook.com/beearthofficial.

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Cool Stuff

SELLING PORKIES

As Asia’s pork prices skyrocket, Impossible Foods couldn’t have timed the launch of their plant-based pork alternative any better. Until now, innovations in meat substitutes have focused on beef in order to cater to American tastes. This foodtech titan is now turning towards Asia, with a gluten-free, halal-certified alternative to ground pork made from soy protein, with sunflower and coconut oils for added fatty acids. Expect to see Impossible Pork in everything from juicy xiaolongbaos to larb lettuce wraps, mapo tofu to bibimbap. impossiblefoods.com/hk.

WE LIKE TO MOVE IT We all know that regular physical activity leads to better mental wellbeing thanks to all those extra endorphins, but even so, more than half of us are not getting the recommended amount of exercise. For the month of February, Mind HK’s Move It for Mental Health campaign aims to tackle this issue by encouraging people to up their physical activity as a way of improving their happiness and overall mental well-being.

Get involved by pledging your workout goal for the month, and you’ll be held accountable by everyone else joining the campaign.

Feb 1-29. Learn more at moveithk.com.

LOVELY LEAFY

British aromatherapy brand Aromatherapy Associates is getting in on the forest bathing trend with Forest Therapy, a brand new oil blend launched just last month. It combines juniper berry, pink pepper and Mediterranean cypress for a cleansing, calming scent that recreates the feeling of walking through a fragrant forest. If you can’t bring yourself to the woods, bring the woods to you by applying the bath & shower oil to your skin shortly before stepping through the shower, allowing the scents to release in the steam, or by spritzing the Wellness Mist on your pulse points. $670 (Bath & Shower Oil) or $235 (Wellness Mist) from Lane Crawford IFC.

GOING UP Wellness Week We are so excited that Wellness Week is hitting Hong Kong this Feb! Read all about it on p.19.

Royal Self-care Removing yourself from a toxic environment? Creating distance between yourself and demanding family members?

You do you, Sussexes!

Buttcials Yes, butt facials. A cheeky new trend, or a flash in the pants? Only time will tell.

False Eyelashes 1.0 Not a good look when they come loose midmeeting. Get your flutter on with next-gen eyelash extensions; our roundup is on p.36.

GOING DOWN 13

Dining

Choc IT UP

If you’re a chocolate-lover like most people with a pulse and taste buds, you’ll adore these locally found, guilt-free chocolate treats that are a cut above your average Mars. By Carla Thomas.

NUCAO The invention of three German engineering students who struggled to find healthy, non-artificial snacks for their study sessions, this vegan, low-carb chocolate bar swaps cocoa butter and sugar for hemp seeds, drastically reducing its sugar and fat content. Touted as the first chocolate with inner values, Nucao also participates in a 1:1 reforestation program, planting one mangrove tree in Madagascar for every bar they sell, with plastic-free packaging solutions to keep their chocolate as green and sustainable as possible. Already a hit in Europe, this highnutrient treat made its way to Hong Kong late last year and is available in various stockists around the city. $48 per bar. Available at Tealosophy, Beer Bay and Barre 2 Barre. nucao.hk.

PURA VIDA Who says you can’t have dessert for breakfast?

This Chocolate Cranberry granola from Pura Vida mixes ancient grains buckwheat and amaranth with unsweetened cacao, almonds, hazelnuts, pumpkin seeds and cranberries, with no refined sugar or preservatives.

The crunchy granola goes down a treat, but slurping up the chocolatey milk left in the bowl is the height of satisfaction, and a welcome throwback to childhood. $95 per 250g bag. Available at various locations, including Green Common, SpiceBox Organics and Edgar, or order online at puravidahkg.com.

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Dining

PANA Organic, raw, vegan, dairy- AND gluten-free... it’s hard to believe this melt-in-your-mouth chocolate brand from Australia contains virtually zero nasties normally found in decadent desserts (we’re looking at you, refined sugar.) Creative flavour combos include Fig & Wild Orange, Sour Cherry & Vanilla, Grapefruit & Peppercorn and their top-seller, Coconut & Goji (bonus superfood points!) Available at various stockists around Hong Kong, or visit their website where you can order special gift boxes for occasions like Valentine’s Day, Chinese New Year, or just because! $65 per bar at Food For Life. pana-organic.com

CONSPIRACY CHOCOLATE Started by a Swiss and Israeli couple in 2018, this boutique bean-tobar company blends the traditions of Swiss chocolate-making with more experimental flavours from their Wong Chuk Hang workspace.

They keep their batches of chocolate microscopically small with minimal processing, crafting bars that are simple (two ingredients, no additives) and retain all the juicy superfood benefits of cacao, like antioxidants and iron. Beans are sourced directly from a single farm in Vietnam to ensure they’re fair trade, too. Try the Nibby bar, a bold dark chocolate topped with crunchy cacao nibs, or the heavenly Hazelnut, which uses whole roasted hazelnuts and a touch of caramel. $50 per bar. Available at various stockists, including Eric Kayser, Polygon Cafe, Bones & Blades and Treehouse, or order online at conspiracychocolate.com.

CACAO This family-run Hong Kong business is serious about ethical and ecofriendly practices in their artisanal chocolate-making. They avoid West African cocao, notorious for its child slavery practices, and only use fair trade Colombia cocoa from deforestation-free farms. Their signature pralines come in mouth-watering varieties, like peppermint white chocolate, salted caramel or passionfruit, many of which can be made vegan. Cacao is also carbon neutral, with plastic-free and recyclable packaging for minimal guilt on those repeat orders...

Praline boxes from $160 for 8, or $480 for 24.

Visit cacao.hk or email carolyn@cacao.hk for orders.

FRESH CUTS Dining news that’s good for you

VEGETARIAN OPTIONS AT CALI-MEX Struggling to find hearty, fast, healthy and wallet-friendly vegetarian options?

Cali-Mex has just come out with a dedicated plant-based menu that should delight herbivores all over the city. First order from the starter menu (we love the spinach & artichoke dip and the fresh guac). Then take your pick of salads, tacos, burritos, quesadillas, enchinadas, nachos or Mexican lasagna, before choosing your filling, from mixed beans, mixed veg or spinach to the Venice Beach vegan filled made with soy chicken, cheese and sour cream. Cali-Mex also offers Impossible fillings and Impossible burgers, which you can choose instead of beef on the burger menu.

Outlets citywide. Find your nearest one at cali-mex.com.

TE QUIERO MUCHO HOSTS GAY SPEED DATING NIGHT ON FEBRUARY 12 Looking for love in all the wrong places?

Single and ready to mingle? Head to Sheung Wan’s Te Quiero Mucho for a gents-only speed dating night on February 12. For $318, you’ll get to enjoy free-flow tacos and signature cocktails, wines and beers from 7:3010pm, while you werk the room.

Buy your tickets at ticketflap.com/ cupidorapidogaynight.

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Dining

CHEAT DAY

Because life’s too short to always order the salad

Yes, they’re really cakes!

DEEPCAKES Renowned pastry chef Dominique Ansel touches down in Hong Kong with 當文歷餅店 BY DOMINIQUE ANSEL, a new patisserie cafe in Harbour City.

In this new space, classic Hong Kong-inspired flavours are reimagined in playful, sculpture-like pastries that are optical illusions as much as they are edible creations. Bite into a stick of fishballs, and you’ll be rewarded with chewy red bean ice cream balls; or stick a fork in a lemon tea box and discover bergamot curd and Earl Grey mascarpone mousse. Homages to nostalgic Hong Kong dining culture abounds, with dim sum baskets, macaroni, condensed milk tins, thousand-year-old eggs and pineapple buns all rendered in cake form.

Shop OT G63A, G/F, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, 3-27 Canton Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, dangwenli.com.

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GIVEAWAYS Visit liv-magazine.com/giveaways for a chance to win!

Free stuff!

WIN: a one-month membership to URSUS 2.0!

Newly opened in Fortress Hill, URSUS 2.0 is dedicated to bringing their intense strength training to Island East, and to celebrate, they’re offering a free monthlong membership to one lucky reader, valued at $2,500! What to expect? The lineup includes various fitness and conditioning classes, including BEAR CAMP, Boxing & Muay Thai, thrice-weekly URSUS FIT resistance and strength training, and Mobility classes on Saturdays to help you recover after a hard week of training. ursusfitness.com

WIN: an Essential Travel Oils set from Aromatherapy Associates Going on a trip? Stash these four gorgeous bath & shower oils into your luggage for a mood-boosting wellness experience, wherever you are. This set, valued at $580, comprises four unique oils designed to

relax and revive. Simply pour into a bath, or apply to your skin before you shower to wrap yourself in their comforting aromas.

We have two sets up for grabs. asia.aromatherapyassociates.com

Enter at liv-magazine.com/giveaways before February 24 to win!

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Reviews

TEST-DRIVE Liv checks out the newest workouts and wellness trends

PRODUCT

thin layer of cleanser and turn on the LUNA, which feels like a gentle buzz in your hand that lasts for one minute before turning off automatically. As we make slow circles on our face, we can feel the pulsations getting deep into our skin. It doesn’t hurt, but there’s a definite sensation that feels like a serious step up from your normal wash-andgo routine.

LUNA 3 from FOREO The Buzz: Famous for its facial cleansing massagers, Swedish beauty brand FOREO has been earning a reputation as a skincare gamechanger for years, with celebs like Chrissy Teigen and Venus Williams swearing by its benefits. We tried out the newly launched LUNA 3 in our skincare routine for a month to see what all the fuss is about.

The Product: Shaped a bit like a palm-sized egg, this pink handheld device is covered in soft, silicone bristles that conduct sonic pulsations when turned on. The LUNA 3 has longer and softer bristles, meaning it can get deeper into your pores without causing unnecessary irritation to skin. You can also pair the device to the FOREO app via Bluetooth, allowing you to control the intensity and routine of sonic pulsations from your phone. We cover our face in a 18

The Verdict: Definitely worth the hype! We notice a boost in glow from the very first cleanse, and a patch of stubborn spots on our chin disappear after just a day or two.

Our skin feels stimulated after every use, and our tone evens out nicely, making it easy to forego makeup. Our only complaint is a matter of tech support: our LUNA won’t pair with the app, meaning we’re stuck on the default pulsation setting. But we can’t fault the radiant results, so would still recommend it as a worthy addtition to any skincare routine.

Cost: $1,530, available at Sephora, Fortress and Lane Crawford. foreo.com

THERAPY

Spinal Mobilization Therapy at Asaya The Buzz: One of last year’s most talked-about wellness openings, Asaya at the Rosewood Hong Kong is so much more than a hotel spa. This fully-fledged urban retreat goes beyond facials and massages (though they offer those too) and instead looks at wellbeing as a whole, with renowned resident experts covering areas such as emotional and mental wellbeing, functional movement, TCM and and more. On the same floor as the wellness centre is Asaya Kitchen, a health- and sustainabilityfocused restaurant that serves gourmet healthconscious cuisine at a surprisingly wallet-friendly price.

The Experience: High walls and shallow ornamental pools give this indoor-outdoor space a secret garden feel as you move from the changing area to the relaxation room to the private treatment pods, each of which come with their own miniature private garden.

Before your treatment, take a dip in the spectacular infinity pool overlooking the harbour or work up a sweat with a gym session or fitness class. We went for a spinal mobility session with Terry Burge, a sports therapist who previously worked in one of Thailand’s top wellness retreats.

The Verdict: Terry’s warm manner put us at ease straight away, and after a top-to-toe body assessment, he began his session. Don’t go in expecting candles and whale music; this treatment is all about correcting long-held postural issues by releasing trigger points areas of tight muscle along our spine that were throwing our alignment and mobility out of whack. Although there were more than a few times when we winced, We finished our session feeling an inch taller, and absolutely amazing. Top tip: make sure to visit the restaurant while you’re there. The food is brilliant - light and nourishing but packed with flavour and very satisfying.

Cost: $1,800 for 60 minutes.

6/F, Rosewood Hong Kong, Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, 3891-8888, rosewoodhotels.com.

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Cover Story

DOCTOR’S ORDERS:

THE MEDICAL MOVEMENT TO

PRESCRIBE NATURE All around the world, the medical profession is beginning to wake up to the measurable health benefits of spending time in nature. But will a nature prescription ever catch on here in Hong Kong?

Carla Thomas investigates.

I

magine going to see your doctor about a health problem, and rather than receiving a litany of unpronounceable medications, being prescribed a long walk outdoors instead.

This is slowly becoming a reality in doctors’ offices around the world, from Canada to America, Japan to the Shetland Islands. There’s an increasing body of scientific evidence that suggests that time spent in nature might actually be essential to keeping us well in the long run, something that we miss out on with increasingly urban and sedentary lifestyles.

Medical experts are starting to pay attention to that data, and using their prescription pads to effect change by recommending patients get outside and reap the long-ignored benefits of the great outdoors.

Image credit: Kembali 20

Cover Story

WHY DO WE LOVE NATURE SO MUCH? We all instinctively know getting outside is good for us, but it’s hard for most people to explain why that is. Sure, we feel better overall after some time spent in nature - but where does that come from, physiologically speaking?

Attention restoration theory (Kaplan & Kaplan, 1989) is a theory that’s often used to account for the positive effects of nature. The theory suggests that the environmental stimuli of nature actually allows us to recover from attention fatigue, something we frequently suffer from in our modern lives as a result of “the performance of cognitive tasks that require prolonged maintenance of directed attention.”

Simply put, we’re spending a lot of time staring at our computers and mobile phones, an unnatural use of our cognitive faculties.

Kembali

Another evolutionary theory suggests that specific details of natural environments, like spatial openness, the presence of natural patterns or structures, and water, all actually reduce heightened stress responses brought on by modern environments - which evolutionarily speaking, are quite hostile for our bodies to exist in. The Stress Reduction Theory (Ulrich, 1983) explains why many of us find it so innately healing to be in nature.

WHAT SCIENCE TELLS US

Kembali

Working with these theories, countless studies have been done to figure out exactly how we can make use of them - and as it turns out, the benefits are myriad. A 2009 study found that people who lived within a half mile of green areas had a lower incidence of 15 of the most common medical conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, asthma, migraines, anxiety and depression. A similar study from Harvard and Brigham and Women’s Hospital surveyed 108,000 women over eight years, and found that

women who lived in or near green areas had a 12 percent lower death rate than those who didn't.

Even if you don’t live near a green space, the benefits of getting outside on one’s health can still be harnessed. One study from Saarland University in Germany suggests that as little as 25 minutes of brisk walking per day can dramatically increase life expectancy by up to seven years.

And it’s not just the woods that do us good; there’s ample evidence that suggests that being 21

Cover Story

near the water also has therapeutic value. A 2013 study that used GPS and self-reports of wellbeing logged over smartphones found that marine and coastal locations were consistently correlated to higher measures of reported happiness.

Study after study points to nature having observable and measurable positive effects on our wellbeing, from reducing our cortisol (our stress hormone), increasing cerebral blood flow, even enlarging our hippocampus (our brain’s memory region) - all of which contribute to a holistically better health outcome for us than regularly staying inside.

Image credit: CAPE

CAPE

NATURE PRESCRIPTIONS, IN THE WILD

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So how are doctors implementing the miracle cure of Mother Nature? Dr. Melissa Lem is a Vancouver-based physician who has been a long-time advocate for the health benefits of being outdoors. After noticing a decline in her own health following a move from a rural town in British Columbia to an urban environment, Dr. Lem started to investigate the connection between green time and health.

“When I moved back to my hometown Toronto to practise, despite having a less demanding job with fewer hours, I noticed that I felt more stressed and tired,” says Dr. Lem. “Especially when a streetcar would roll by my front window or I would walk the busy streets.” She says she quickly found that there was a body of research on the topic that has only gotten better and more compelling over time.

This prompted her to make it her mission, conducting research, writing and communicating to the public about the importance of time in nature, eventually becoming a

Cover Story

TAKING ROOT ALL OVER British Columbia isn’t the only province in Canada to attempt a wide-scale ecotherapy initiative. Ontario also offers Mood Walks, a provincial program that offers training and support for community mental health associations (CMHA) to launch educational walking programs for individuals suffering from mental health issues.

A representative from CMHA Ontario says that people with mental health issues tend to be more sedentary than the general population, which often leads to more serious health declines. Mood Walks advocates for green exercise - physical activity done outdoors instead of in your home or in a gym - as a proven means to alleviating depression and anxiety, as well as secondary symptoms such as low self-esteem and social withdrawal.

Similar medically-backed initiatives are found in the UK’s Shetland Islands, where “nature prescriptions calendars” are handed out to patients by GPs; Japan, which has advocated shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) since the 80s; and even in the US. Park Rx America is a non-profit nationwide organisation that works with park managers and healthcare professionals to educate doctors on the benefits of prescribing nature as a preventative measure; nearly 500 “prescribers” have already signed on to that initiative.

board member of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment (CAPE). Last year, she was appointed as Director of Parks Prescriptions for the British Columbia Parks Foundation, a role in which she is responsible for planning and launching Canada’s first province-wide, and eventually national, nature prescription programme, called PaRx. The initiative works with doctors and other healthcare providers to encourage prescribing time in nature to their patients, encouraging the health benefits of green time and - Lem hopes - a national movement.

“Along with CAPE and the BC Parks Foundation, I hope to make nature prescriptions go mainstream in Canada over the next few years, with doctors prescribing nature as often as they’re prescribing medication - it’s just a matter of getting the information out there, breaking down barriers and inspiring change.”

Image credit: CMHA Ontario 23

Cover Story

COMING TO HONG KONG SOON? With its ample green spaces and access to water, Hong Kong seems perfectly equipped for nature prescriptions to take root. While they might not have caught on with doctors here yet, there are some resources that people can access if they want to selfmedicate on the great outdoors.

Jasmine Nunns is Hong Kong’s first certified Nature & Forest Therapy Guide. Her company, Kembali, offers “restorative nature-based rewilding experiences” by leading groups through outdoors experiences like forest bathing and nature-based coaching. She believes that the city’s abundant wilderness has powerful healing properties that many Hongkongers could use as a powerful recovery tool from the onslaught of mega-urban life.

Kembali

GO NATURAL Hong Kong is blessed with an abundance of natural treasures, from hiking trails to beaches. Here are a few facilitators to help get you out and into the wild.

SHINRIN YOKU HONG KONG Japanese-style forest bathing, deeply rooted in a mindfulness practice. Facilitated by certified Forest Therapy Guide Amanda Yik. shinrinyokuhk.com 24

Kembali

“Living in such an urban environment, people can disconnect from their bodies and find themselves numbing or coping with the multiple ways in which we are bombarded with information and stimulation,” says Nunns.

She lists various health benefits, from lower blood pressure and improved sleep to better outcomes for patients suffering from ADHD or PTSD, all of which studies have shown can be induced by spending time in nature.

Despite the science, Nunns says she has yet to meet someone in Hong Kong who has received a nature prescription from their doctor - yet. She believes it’s only a matter of time before doctors here catch up with healthcare professionals in places like New Zealand, Japan or the UK, where one of her teachers ran an NHS-backed programme that used coastal walks to alleviate anxiety in patients.

“I think there will be a rise in recognition from the health industry to acknowledge the benefits of nature-based treatments from a physical and a psychological point of view,” she says. “But we have to remember that as much as nature-based therapies are on the rise, they are in no way a new prescription. Our ancestors would have had access and prioritised this relationship with the land, and seen it as a reciprocal relationship.”

KEMBALI Led by Jasmine Nunns, Kembali runs rewilding workshops, wild swimming events, forest therapy and other nature-based activities. kembali.com

ARK EDEN Located on Lantau, this nature-based organisation runs regular camps and day visits to learn all about nature in its “Forest School.” arkedenonlantau.org

HONG KONG FOREST ADVENTURES From its base in Ma On Shan, this outdoor classroom immerses children in the natural world in child-led, play-based activities, whatever the weather. hongkongforestadventures.com

THE BACKYARD GANG Catching bugs… building fires…

The Backyard Gang recreates rural childhoods with its immersive programmes that take kids into the great outdoors of Hong Kong. thebackyardgang.com

in partnership with

COLD PRESSED SKINCARE Y

ou’re heard of cold-pressed oil and cold-pressed juice, but did you know that cold-pressing techniques - which preserve vital nutrients for maximum effectiveness - are the future of skincare too? RARE SkinFuel leads the charge.

Our botanical extracts are obtained through a new extraction technology called Cellular Extraction.

Unlike traditional methods, which degrade the source material, this process works to preserve the plant as they exist in nature – pure, stable, and active for long periods of time.

In mass production processes, used by most skincare brands, extracts will be added immediately to the emulsion at its 70 degrees Celsius temperature to save on time and production costs.

However, this essentially destroys the minerals, vitamins, and nutrients within the ingredients that are most vital to our skin.

At RARE SkinFuel, product efficacy is our number-one priority, which is why we allow our products to naturally cool down to 30 degrees before blending in our active botanical ingredients, using a new technology known as Cellular Extraction. This locks in all those vital nutrients and ensures maximum product potency. It is an expensive and time-consuming process, but when it comes to the quality of our product, we never compromise. The results are dramatic: skin readily absorbs the Australian Native Extracts - including Pentavitin, Aquarich, Marinova, Maritech and Fucoidan - leaving it happy, healthy and nourished, the active essences perfectly preserved thanks to RARE SkinFuel’s cold-pressing technology Learn more at rareskinfuel.com.

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WELL, WOULDN’T YOU KNOW As the city gears up for Wellness Week Hong Kong, taking place from February 17-24, we take a closer look at what to expect from this celebration of wellbeing.

H

ong Kong’s wellness scene is having a major moment. As citywide levels of stress, depression and burnout climb to an all-time high, an increasing number of us are waking up to the importance of physical and mental wellbeing, self-care and mindfulness as a way to restore balance in our lives.

Organised by Liv Media (yes, us!), Wellness Week Hong Kong celebrates all things health, encouraging Hongkongers to get out, prioritise their wellbeing and experience the many amazing healthy activities the city has to offer, from spa treatments to workouts, skincare to dining and so much more.

Dozens of the city’s top names in wellness and lifestyle have signed on to offer Wellness Week

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participants an exclusive deal or discount just for the event.

In addition to the deals, there will be special events taking place throughout Wellness Week, from workouts and day retreats to educational talks and seminars, that everyone is welcome to join.

Our charity partner for Wellness Week Hong Kong is Mind HK. Their mission is to raise awareness of mental health issues in Hong Kong, and to ensure that anyone facing a mental health problem is given the recognition, respect and support they need to make the best recovery possible. Wellness Week is proud to support mental health advocacy and awareness in Hong Kong.

Confirmed Partners PLATINUM lululemon The Upper House Base Camp at The Kerry Hotel ClassPass Asaya

Spa and Fitness at The Kerry Hotel

GOLD Aromatherapy Associates Switch & Co AIA Vitality Park Defin8 Fitness Options Studio Pilates Topfit Flo Jewellery

The vegan and gluten-free Revitalizing Menu at The Upper House

SILVER Beef & Liberty The ENTERTAINER Flex Studio Ozone Sense of Touch HIT45 Ursus Fitness Central Wellness Beyond Beauty Global Paul Gerrard

HOW DO I PARTICIPATE? We’ve put all the offers into one handy place at wellnessweek.hk. From there, you can browse all the deals available; each brand has its own dedicated page outlining their offer. Redemption is organised directly by the vendors, so if you want to book, just follow the instructions on their page. The same goes for the events; take a look at which events you want to join on the website, and if you see something you like, just follow the instructions to RSVP directly with the organisers.

WHO’S TAKING PART? We are so excited to have an amazing lineup of partners onboard for Wellness Week. Here’s who’s confirmed so far, with more to come in the run-up to the event!

Browse fitness experiences with ClassPass

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Planners

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Planners

PLAN YOUR LIFE

The Write Way Take control of your schedule with the help of these nifty (and fully analogue) organisers and planning tools. By Zoe Belhomme.

S

tudies show that the best way to commit something to memory is to write it down. That’s right: good old pen and paper is making a huge comeback when it comes to planning and productivity, and we are so here for it. Check out some of the next-gen planners to help you get your to-do list, commitments and personal goals on the right track.

BEST FOR:

Reaching your goals PASSION PLANNER Passion Planner’s organisers are a great way to lay out your daily and monthly schedule, as well as take stock of your short-, medium- and long-term goals. This planner includes prompts to identify things you’d like to achieve, then helpfully breaks them down into reachable sub-goals. You choose a “game-changer” every month, one of your goals that you’ll work towards throughout the month, keeping you accountable and on track. There’s also ample space for notes and planning, as well as weekly, monthly and biannual prompts to help you reflect throughout the year on how you’re doing. Available in calendar, academic and undated formats, they’ll also send PDFs to anyone who'd like to try it out before they buy. passionplanner.com

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Planners

BEST FOR:

Staying Positive HAPPINESS PLANNER The Happiness Planner is a mindful daily journal with an emphasis on being happy and finding positivity in your day-to-day life. It asks you to identify the areas in life that make you happy or unhappy to become more aware of your needs, and through daily gratitude practices, slowly change any negative mindsets that might be holding you back.

These eye-catching pastel planners (which also come with a matching pen and paper clips!) will take you through a full 365 days, but if you just want to try it out, a 100-day, undated version is also available. thehappinessplanner.com

BEST FOR:

Setting Daily Priorities FULL FOCUS PLANNER This hardback planner doesn’t look out of place at work or in a meeting, but it offers its owner much more than just a place to jot down notes.

From leadership guru Michael Hyatt, this planner is customisable to your specific needs, providing online tutorials to help you build a scheduling system that best works for you. You’ll find the standard goal-setting fare, as well as pages for recording your daily rituals, weekly previews, quarterly reviews - a full focus view of your life as you go through the year. This one differs from other planners as it’s a subscription model; every quarter you’ll be sent a new planner designed to optimise your life. fullfocusstore.com 30

P h o t oPgl ra an pnheerrs

BEST FOR:

Sticking To Your Fitness Routine COMMIT30 FITNESS JOURNAL If you’ve got a big race or fitness event coming up, this planner breaks down into movement, nutrition, and mindfulness sections to help you stay on track in the lead-up to the big day. With a similar colourful layout to its predecessor, the Commit30 planner, this fitness-specific version features calendars to schedule your training, meal planning and shopping, as well as space for setting your own 30-day challenges. This version comes with customisable rows to track everything from steps taken to carb intake. commit30.com

If you’re looking for something to really help you feel better in the long-term, a private class at O:RIN may just be just what you’re looking for…

This January, our only resolution is to set realistic, sustainable goals that make us feel our healthiest and happiest – and that’s exactly what O:RIN is here to help us with. This Pilates, Gyrotonic and Yoga studio offers intimate classes to help you reach your potential.

It sets out to provide, not just physical improvements, but also mental and emotional clarity.

Pilates & Gyrotonic.

Unit 6, 19F, Training.

Westlands Centre, 20Westlands Road, Quarry Bay, 5726 1669 Private O:RIN, & Group unit 6 19th fl. westlands centre no.20 westlands rd.

香港鰂魚涌華蘭路20號 華蘭中心19樓6室 (港島東中心旁邊）

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Community

SPOTLIGHT:

EXTINCTION REBELLION Famous for their large-scale civil disobedience rallies, Extinction Rebellion (XR) is a grassroots climate action movement that has risen to global prominence in just a year and a half. We speak to the XR HK collective, facilitated by member Olivier Delalande, to learn more about the city’s unique environmental challenges.

By Carla Thomas.

Q What is Extinction Rebellion?

Extinction Rebellion (XR) is an international climate change movement that uses non-violent actions and civil disobedience to halt mass extinction and minimise the risk of social and ecological collapse. It was created in April 2018 in the UK, and since then more than 70 countries on six continents have started groups of their own. We are a global movement of mothers, builders, doctors, teachers, musicians, employees, business owners and farmers... Everyone is needed and everybody is welcome.

Q What are the aims of XR? There are three main aims of XR HK. One, ask the government to declare a climate and ecological emergency

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and communicate the urgency for change. Two, urgent action from the government to halt biodiversity loss and reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2025. And three, the forming of a Citizens’ Assembly on Climate and Ecological Justice, which will work alongside the government to clearly represent and communicate all Hongkongers’ needs for our city’s future in the face of this crisis.

Q Why does Hong Kong need its own XR movement?

Hong Kong is a major international transportation and trading hub; people, endangered species, goods and finance from all over the world pass through the city. As a society, we must recognise the importance of these flows and their destructive

nature. Our air pollution and local wildlife extinction are left unchecked.

XR Hong Kong enables public knowledge while urging policymakers to act without any further delay.

Q What are some of the unique environmental challenges Hong Kong is facing?

Hong Kong does not have a strategy in place to replace fossil fuels with decarbonised energy for its electricity consumption. Their adopted strategy is to replace one fossil fuel with another (in this case, coal with natural gas) which, while less carbon-intensive, is ultimately counterproductive. In order to seriously attempt to stabilise the climate, we must commit to not build any new fossil fuel infrastructure.

Community

with anyone diametrically opposed to the climate crisis. People are generally curious and agree that there is a problem, take the flyers and give us a thumbs up!

Addressing this crisis also requires us to keep in mind that the ecological and social aspects cannot be considered separately. The poorest people are the ones contributing the least to this crisis and yet they will be the ones affected the most.

Q What kinds of actions has XR Hong Kong taken so far?

We’ve held several “die-ins” (a form of protest where protestors lie on the ground to create disruptions) in busy areas such as Central and Mong Kok and also held a funeral march for the Earth. We’ve also had more specific actions, for example at the Brazilian Consulate when man-made fires were raging in the Amazon rainforest.

More recently, we organised a public screening of short documentaries at Central Piers. Bystanders were invited to watch them and have a conversation with us. The reception from the public was thoughtful and positive. We have never had a problem

Q What’s the biggest misconception people have about climate change and climate change activists?

That our governments are dealing with the situation and will address it adequately - so far, they have not. Science tells us that our global greenhouse gas emissions need to halve by 2030 to avoid catastrophe.

And yet in 2018, global emissions went up by 2.7 percent. We are now on track for a global increase of 4°C - 5°C in temperature, far from the commitments made in the Paris Agreement (an international climate change agreement signed by 195 nations in 2016) to limit it to 2°C. A misconception about activists is that you cannot engage in ecoactivism unless you are living your life in a perfectly environmentally-friendly way. We need to recognise that we are all caught up in a toxic system which can make it incredibly hard to make choices that do not have a detrimental impact on the environment. That doesn’t mean you can’t join a group like XR and make a huge difference!

We welcome everyone, and are totally opposed to the idea of blaming and shaming: we all do our best with our personal choices, but we recognise that what is needed more than anything is systemic change.

In a nutshell, and to use a quote we particularly like: “Live simply so that others can simply live.” Practically speaking, that means challenging our consumerist culture on a daily basis and reducing our overall consumption of clothes, household goods, electronic gadgets and more.

More specifically, the two main ways one person can reduce his or her impact on the planet are to adopt a plant-based diet and stop flying, or fly less.

Q How can readers support XR HK? Come meet us! We meet every Monday, and this is a good way to get to know more about us and share your own concerns and feelings about this crisis. You can also join us if you feel you’d like to do something to address it, or follow our social accounts on Instagram (@extinctionrebellionHK) or Twitter (@XRHongKong). Donations to Extinction Rebellion’s global platform also helps XR to fund their actions.

For more info visit facebook.com/ extinctionrebellionHK, or learn more about Extinction Rebellion’s global movement at rebellion.earth.

Q What are some of the ways that people can take a stand against climate change? Are there any small but meaningful steps that people can take in their everyday life to make a difference?

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Food

HEALTHY RECIPE

Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies For cookies that care, try this simple vegan recipe that uses dairy-free chocolate loaded with magnesium and iron. Created by pastry chef Stella Lim for Conspiracy Chocolate (@conspiracychocolate).

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy

TIME

45 mins

TIP: Add dry ingredients to the wet in batches, to ensure they mix together more evenly.

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INGREDIENTS

INSTRUCTIONS:

• 1/4 cup coconut oil

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1/4 tsp cinnamon powder

• 1/3 cup brown sugar • 2 tbsp non-dairy milk • 3/4 cup flour • 1/4 tsp baking soda

• 1/3 cup Conspiracy Chocolate chunks, or other vegan chocolate

1.

2.

3.

4.

Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl.

Mix the wet ingredients in a separate bowl.

Mix wet and dry ingredients together.

Form small balls with the dough using your hands, and line on a parchment paper on a baking tray 5. Sprinkle with sea salt (optional).

6. Bake 12-15 min at 170 ° C 7. Let cool for 15 minutes, and enjoy!

See

you t

here

!

Organizers

Scan QR Code Register for Free ticket

5287 6811 亞洲素食展 Vegetarian Food Asia

樂活博覽 LOHAS Expo

Pamper

THE GLOW UP News from the beauty aisle

Lash

ON THE

Make those peepers pop at these eyelash salons. By Sarah Fung

E

yelash extensions are having a moment.

New-gen extensions are safe for your existing lashes, last for ages and offer a dramatic, wide-eyed look without needing to faff with messy mascara or eyelash glue.

Here's where to get your lash on.

LULALASH BROWS & BEAUTY

Extensions not quite your thing? In addition to semipermanent makeup, Lulalash offers a keratin eyelash treatment that gives you thicker, darker and more lifted lashes for 8-12 weeks. The treatment takes just 45 minutes and costs $799 ($620 for first-timers).

Unit 404, Tung Ming Building, 40-42 Des Voeux Rd., Central, 9388-1734, lulalashbrowsandbeauty.com

XTREME LASHES

If volume is what you’re looking for, Xtreme Lashes is the way to go. Their lashes are lighter, meaning the technicians are able to attach multiple extensions to a single strand without adding too much weight. Expect 70-100 lashes to be attached during your session.

Founded in 2012 in Australia, Mere is an Aussie import that offers a more a natural style.

Mere has created its own line of extensions that are lighter, making them both easy to layer and better suited to people with weaker lashes. Want more drama? Go for Lashliner, a semi-permanent treatment that uses natural, organic pigments to create a dramatic eyeliner effect along the lash line. A classic set of signature sheer eyelash extensions costs $1,695, while Lashliner costs $7,200, with a free touch-up within three months.

3/F, Vplus, 68-70 Wellington St., Central, 3708-8961, xtremelashes.com.hk

7B, Lin Fook House, 1-3 Jardine’s Crescent, Causeway Bay, 9619-3383, www.mere.com.hk.

NOVALASH

KESALAN PATHARAN

10/F, 1 Lyndhurst Tower, 1 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, 2536-0998, novalash.hk.

Room 1101, 11/F, Century Square, 1-13 D'Aguilar St., Central, 2918-9206. Also has outlets in Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui. kesalanpatharan.hk.

Novalash extensions are offered all over the world and regularly scoop up industry awards. Safe for your existing lashes, they are also waterand oil-proof, meaning you can swim or shower immediately after application. Prices start at $1,860 for a first application of Classic lashes, with touch-ups starting at $980. For a real wow factor, try the American Volume lashes, which start at $2,860 for a first-time application.

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MERE LASH ARTISTRY

The OG of eyelash design, Kesalan Patharan has been offering eyelash extensions in Hong Kong for more than a decade. Dedicated to providing a high level of service, this Japanese brand has skilled specialists who undergo regular training to keep on top of their game.

They tailor each customer’s look, glueing extensions individually onto each lash for a natural but dramatic effect. Prices start at $880 for around 120 lashes.

Pamper

PRODUCT REVIEW

LIV LOVES… MASCARA CARLA THOMAS, EDITOR Lancôme Grandiôse Mascara ($295)

GRAPES OF BATH

This one’s for the wine lovers! Hailing from the Austrian wine region of southern Styria, Vinoble is a grape-based skincare line that uses the beautifying power of OPC grape extract, a powerful antioxidant that works wonders for the skin. The female-founded company started in a day spa in Austria, and has since grown to become an über-popular choice with spas all over the world, picking up industry awards for its products and vinotherapy treatments. For anyone with sensitive or acneprone skin, the pure grape seed bath and body oil is an excellent natural moisturiser that won’t clog pores or cause irritation. It’s also super high in linoleic acid, a fatty acid which helps to build up the skin’s barrier and keep it hydrated. Is there anything wine can’t do?? All of Vinoble’s products are natural, vegan and sustainably made, right down to plastic-free packaging. vinoble-cosmetics.asia

“The curved wand is super flexible, meaning you can get every single lash on your eyelid, no matter how awkward it is to reach.”

JASMIN BLUNCK, ADMINISTRATOR Lash Power Long-Wearing Formula Clinique ($180) “I’ve tried a million and even if waterproof and smudgeproof, I still look like a panda half-way through the day.

This is the only one I can find that has staying power.”

OIL BE BACK

With our busy lives, we love hardworking skincare products that do more than one job, and Tibetan-inspired, Hong Kong-based skincare brand Akar Skin has announced a new makeup remover that we are super excited about! Their new Purify Cleansing OIl is a 100% plant-based makeup remover that also contains exfoliating, healing and soothing properties, including pineapple enzymes for exfoliating and Vitamin A for brightening, plus tea tree for treating blemishes, and sunflower seeds for antioxidants.

US$58 from akarskin.com

ZOE BELHOMME, WRITER Full Frontal Volume, Lift & Curl Mascara by Fenty ($208) "This little magic wand makes it so easy to create that dramatic, fat lash look.

I use the soft, round brush to build up the product before using the flat brush to define and separate each lash."

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Travel

WHERE TO FIND YOUR INNER PEACE IN

Taipei Meditation and yoga galore, epic hikes and world-class vegan cuisine, Taiwan’s capital is a surprisingly accessible escape for anyone in need of a little R&R. By Erin Hale.

J

ust a short hop from Hong Kong, slow-moving Taipei offers a relaxing weekend escape and a chance to practice your Mandarin while munching on street food at its world-famous night markets. When you get tired of grazing on fried treats and are ready to re-up your health, stop by some of Taipei’s most famous meditation centres and outstanding vegan eateries for a restorative cure for that Hong Kong burnout.

Where to recharge Whether you follow the Ayurvedic traditions of yoga, are keen to learn more about Taiwanese philosophy or enjoy the simplicity of Zen Buddhism, Taipei has something for everyone when it comes to meditation, yoga and detox retreats.

Kadampa Meditation Center: This meditation centre with views of the Tamsui River in New Taipei City also follows the Mahayana Buddhist tradition and offers by-donation meditation classes in Mandarin and English as well as residential-style retreats if you’re looking to extend your stay in Taipei a few days. No. 2-1, Lane 77, Sec. 1 Hangzhou South Road, Taipei Manjughosha Buddhist Center: Stop by here for by-donation English-language meditation classes targeted at beginners every Tuesday night at 7pm close to Shandao Temple. No. 2-1, Lane 77, Sec. 1 Hangzhou South Road, Taipei

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Travel

None Zen Center in Taipei: One of two Taiwanese branches of the international Zen Buddhist centre - the second is in Tainan - the None Zen Center offers a range of classes from beginner to advanced as well as online courses in Zen Buddhism in English and Mandarin. The centre also hosts regular intensive meditation retreats each month. No. 241-2 (Floor 2), Jinhua Street, Daan Dist., Taipei 106, Taiwan

Where to get away Origin Yoga & Wellness: A scenic yoga retreat with stunning sea views and beach yoga on the outskirts of Taipei, Origin offers one-, three- and six-day yoga and detox retreats as well as an option to design your own retreat. 18 Haiwan Xincheng, Shimen District, New Taipei City Ananda Marga Yoga & Meditation Center: While this centre is as far away from Taipei as you can get without leaving the country, it’s still well worth a visit if you’ve got time to spare in Taiwan. Situated on the scenic southern coast – a popular spot for diving and water sports – Ananda is a one-stop shop for meditation, philosophy and yoga classes in English and Mandarin. The centre also offers longer detox yoga and meditation retreats that range from four to seven days and serve vegetarian food and fresh juice on the side. 56-4 Sha Tien, Yu jing District, Tainan County

Where to get your dose of nature There are more than a dozen hiking options immediately near Taipei and accessible by public transport or taxi, with more far flung and challenging hikes accessible by train service.

Zhinanchalu Hiking Trail: The perfect half day excursion if you need to burn off some of Taipei’s intense carbo-loading, these three small paved trails cover a wide range of terrain through the Erge Mountain System, from tea fields to bamboo forest with temples along the way. The Taipei City Government website helpfully reminds visitors this fourhour journey burns off the equivalent of 16 slices of white bread. If the hike proves too tiring, you can take a gondola back to the nearest MRT station.

The Junjianyan Trail: Hike this short trail close to northern Taipei’s Beitou district before you head to famous nearby hot spring onsens on your return. The Junjianyan trail winds through scenic mountains with a stop at the famous Battleship Rock for photos. This trail lasts 2.5 hours and burns off 11 slices!

Jinmianshan Hiking Trail: Take in panoramic views of Taipei and shots of the city’s most famous building, Taipei 101, and other iconic buildings from this three-hour northeastern hiking trail on the edge of the city.

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Travel

Where to eat Taiwan is a traditional centre of Mahayana Buddhism, which you’ll quickly notice from some of its astounding temples and traditional neighbourhood shrines where the bodhisattva Guayin often reigns supreme. But Buddhism has had more than just an impact on the architecture - it’s also shaped the way people eat. Taipei is home to scores of vegetarian and vegan restaurants, from the hole-in-the-wall to Michelin-grade. Here are some of the best to try: Rice Revolution: Just around the corner from Taipei’s famous 228 Peace Memorial Park and the Taiwan National Museum, Rice Revolution serves vegetarian and vegan-friendly farm-totable Asian-fusion fare and a variety of teas and coffees. Open Monday-Friday 8am-9pm, Saturday 11am-9pm and Sunday 11am-5pm.

Address: No. 9 Hengyang Road, Zhongzheng District.

Serenity: You’ll probably spot some monks and nuns from nearby Shandao Temple at this Michelin-recommended restaurant that serves Sichuan-style cuisine. Serenity is a great opportunity for vegans and vegetarians to try some of Sichuan’s most famous dishes without the obligatory traditional meat. Open MondaySunday, 11am-2pm, 5pm-9pm. No.1, Ln. 1, Zhenjiang St., Zhongzheng District.

Plants: This plant-based restaurant serves a variety of options from snacks like “milk tea" and cake, “small plates” like hummus, and full meals including teriyaki tempeh and vegan shepherd’s pie, all in an Instagram-worthy setting. Open: Tuesday-Thursday 11:30 am-9:30 pm, Friday-Sunday 10am-9:30pm. No. 10, Lane 253, Section 1, Fuxing South Road, Da’an District.

Ooh Cha Cha: This vegetarian staple has not one but two locations in Taipei serving slightly different menus of vegan and vegetarian Westernstyle food. Its larger branch is a great spot for scrambled tofu, OmniPork banh mi, and vegan mushroom tacos. The smaller Nanchang locale is a great place to grab a quick sandwich, salad or bowl while shopping nearby. Ooh Cha Cha Da An: Open Monday-Sunday, 10am-10pm. No. 4-1, Lane 118, Section 2, Heping East Road, Da’an District Ooh Cha Cha Nanchang: Open Monday-Sunday 10am- 9pm, No. 207, Section 2, Nanchang Road, Zhongzheng District.

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Travel

Yiihotang Bakery: Taipei can sometimes feel like it’s awash in bakeries and cake shops but Yiihotang Bakery gives vegans a chance to try all the best treats from classic Taiwanese pineapple cakes to savoury buns and other baked goods. Open: Monday-Sunday 10:30 am9:30 pm. No. 34, Lane 233, Section 1, Dunhua S Rd, Da’an District.

Yuli Your Home 仁里居: Situated next to Da’an Forest Park, Yuli Your Home offers inexpensive Taiwanese and Asian fusion fare including dumplings, hot pot, fried mushrooms, kimchi and braised bean curd.

Open: Tuesday-Sunday 11:30 am-7:30 pm. No. 16, Lane 151, Section 2, Jianguo South Road, Da’an District, Taipei City

Liv Magazine Ad Feb 2020 T outlined.pdf

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21/1/2020

3:14 PM

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Travel

TRAVEL WELL with Kate Springer

I

f you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day this year - or simply love any excuse to plan a getaway - there’s no better gift than a new adventure.

From a meditative tea ceremony in Tokyo to a private beach picnic in El Nido, I’ve shortlisted a few romantic experiences that will beat a box of chocolates any day.

DINE IN A CAVE IN RAILAY

The Grotto

Perfect for adventurous couples, Railay, a remote peninsula on the southwestern coast of Thailand, is synonymous with caving, rock climbing and hidden lagoons.

It’s also a hotspot for romance; after a day of adrenaline-pumping activities, sink your toes into the sand at The Grotto. Sitting on the water’s edge, this limestone cave doubles as an atmospheric bar and restaurant that offers a front-row seat to Railay’s famous sunsets, not to mention lots of healthy dishes and premium bubbly to boot. rayavadee.com/en/the-grotto.php

CYCLE AT SUNRISE IN ANGKOR WAT There’s nothing more spectacular than watching the sun crest over the ancient spires of Angkor Wat. Guided by the experts at Grasshopper Adventures, experience this magical morning moment on foot, then hop on bikes to explore Angkor Archeological Park before the crowds roll in. On this half-day excursion, you’ll stop for a private breakfast in the jungle, cycle around forgotten temples, and visit must-see marvels like the many-faced Bayon temple and Ta Prohm. For night owls, Grasshopper Adventures also offers a private Twilight Tour picture a bike ride at sunset followed by a traditional dragon boat ride around Angkor Moat with a bottle of bubbly on board! grasshopperadventures.com 42

Grasshopper Adventures

Travel

TRY A MODERN TEA CEREMONY IN TOKYO To get some quiet time in buzzing Tokyo, check out Sakurai’s contemporary Japanese tea experience. Helmed by tea master Shinya Sakurai, the meditative wooden tea bar promises all the ceremony and precision of a traditional tasting but with sleek contemporary interiors, English-speaking staff, modern teaware and more than 50 types of green tea - much of which is sold in the adjacent atelier should you be in the market for a memento. sakurai-tea.jp Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle

Pangulasian Island

ENJOY A PRIVATE ISLAND PICNIC Famed for its cinematic scenery, El Nido located on the northern tip of Palawan in the Philippines - is one of the most romantic destinations on earth. If you book a beach villa at eco-conscious Pangulasian Island resort in Bacuit Bay, you can easily explore the adjacent marine sanctuary, nearby lagoons and secret beaches as you please.

Having just reopened after five months of renovations, the hotel arranges all kinds of couples’ experiences, including ultraromantic beach picnics, private dinners on deserted sandbars, and sunset kayaking. elnidoresorts.com/pangulasian-island

Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle

BOOK A JUNGLE MASSAGE IN CHIANG RAI Just a few kilometres from the Golden Triangle - where Laos, Myanmar and Thailand converge - the Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle turns up the romance with luxe cliffside tents, private terraces and a remote spa that’s set in the heart of a bamboo jungle. Better yet, you can enjoy a treatment on your tent’s private deck where you’ll be fully immersed in nature. For Valentine’s Day, relax together with a 120-minute-long Long Rak Chiang Rai “Couples Connect” journey, which includes a salt scrub, a relaxing massage, and an alfresco rose bath for two fourseasons.com/goldentriangle

Kate Springer is an Asia travel expert who contributes to Conde Nast Traveler, Vogue, CNN, BBC Travel, Forbes Travel Guide, Fodor’s, Vice, and more. Follow her travels on Instagram @katespringer. Send travel news to kate@kate-springer.com

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Macau

MACAU

News and deals from our sister SAR

RAIL BLAZER After 10 years of anticipation, Macau finally has a public rail system! The Macau Light Rapid Transit, commonly referred to as Macau Light Rail or just LRT, is a low-carbon mode of transport that’s easily the most ecofriendly way to get around the city (besides walking, of course.) The single line route has 11 stations, starting at one end of the Taipa peninsula and ending at the other, at Taipa’s ferry terminal. For anyone who has ever struggled to get a cab or make their ferry on time while on a trip to Macau, this is life changing! It’s also a super affordable way to navigate around all the hotels, old Taipa Village, airport and much more. Normal tickets start at MOP6 for trips up to three stations, and the price changes depending how far you go, with discounts for the elderly and children.

Opening Monday-Thursday, 6:30am–11:35pm; Friday-Sunday and public holidays, 6:30am-00:19am. mtr.com.mo/en

SWEET TOOTH

COCOA POWER

Macau is famous for its Portuguese egg tarts, but there are two new pastries at pastelaria Ramalhão that deserve your attention. With delicious and authentic desserts all the way from the historic town of Sintra in Portugal, it’s only been open a few months and is already a local favourite. Famous for their queijadas (cream cheese pastries with a golden crusted top) and travesseiros (a pillow-shaped pastry filled with sweet almond and egg custard), these Sintra pastries are the new must-try snack on a trip to Macau. Drop in for one with coffee, or take away a box to tuck into on the ferry back to Hong Kong. They also serve egg tarts, for the traditionalist in your party.

Chocolate lovers, rejoice! A decadent new chocolate beauty treatment has launched at The Sofitel Spa. The treatment starts with a chocolate body scrub to gently remove dead skin, followed by a chocolate body wrap. The wrap is packed with vitamins A, E and antioxidants which regenerate and moisturise your skin, as well as boosting circulation to improve its appearance. After a warm bath to wash it all off, guests enjoy a calming hot stone massage, and are treated to a cup of hot chocolate to cap off this indulgent experience. A 90-minute “A Sensory Chocolate Journey” is available until the end of February for MOP888++ or MOP1,550++ per couple.

36 Rua do Dr. Pedro José Lobo, Macau, +853 6208-5315, facebook.com/ramalhaodocariatradicional.

Sofitel Macau At Ponte 16, Rua do Visconde Paço de Arcos, Macau, +853 8861-7801, sofitelmacau.com

Sally Victoria Benson grew up in Macau and is the publisher of macaulifestyle.com, the city's leading lifestyle platform. She's passionate about sharing Macau's hidden healthy side and everything happening in the city.

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Family

FIT FAM

with Zoe Belhomme

Crafty Little Things R

esearch shows that a creative environment not only foster development and new skills in children, it also improves socialization and reduces stress and anxiety. If you don’t fancy letting your little one loose with a paint brush at home, here are clubs and classes that provide the perfect platform for creativity.

MESSY JAM Messiness and artistic licence are standard at Messy Jam. Hosting workshops, private parties and sessions over school breaks, this converted flat is a safe place for kids to explore through the medium of art. With no set class structure, the owner encourages budding artists to play freely and make art in any way - or anywhere - they like; even the walls of the studio aren’t off limits! Sessions cost $280 for 60 minutes or $320 for 90 minutes.

Flat D, 2/F, Tai Fat Building, 37 Ko Shing St., Sheung Wan. messy-jam.com

YARN IN THE WORKS Whisked

The Pottery Workshop

Messy Jam

Yarn in the Works

WHISKED Do you have a budding chef on your hands? Channel their culinary talents with a class at Whisked in Sheung Wan. The studio offers various baking and cooking classes depending on your child’s age Baby Whisks, Little Whisks and Junior Whisks - and sessions in both Putonghua and English. On weekends the space hosts private parties and workshops. Kids classes cost between $350-$420 per session.

104 Jervois St., Sheung Wan. whiskedbaking.com

THE POTTERY WORKSHOP For an alternative to paint, let your kid get their hands dirty with clay. Designed for kids aged 6-14, sessions at The Pottery Workshop in SoHo teaches the basics of ceramic-making in a fun and relaxed environment. Classes are two hours long and are held on Saturday and Sunday mornings. $1,800 for seven sessions.

305, 3/F Lyndhurst Building, 29 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, potteryworkshop.com.cn 46

Knitting is having a moment. What was once a pastime for your grandma is now being enjoyed by all ages! Yarn in the Works introduces knitting, crochet and needlework to young fingers by teaching them the basics and helping them start their very own project. Private classes cost $395 for 1.5 hours (excluding material) while workshops are around $350 per person inclusive of materials.

20 Tai Ping Shan St., Sheung Wan. yarnintheworks.com

CRAFTING KITS FROM BIZZIE BEE For something to keep them entertained at home, try crafting kits from local social enterprise, Bizzie Bee. Kits come complete with everything needed to create - from DIY decorations and stamp moulding, to Chinese lanterns and tote bags. Money raised from Bizzie Bee kits goes directly to arts projects for the underprivileged in Hong Kong. Most kits cost $199. bizziebee.org

Family

PARENT PICKS

THE ANGEL BABYBOX Did you know that all new Finnish mothers are given a box by the Finnish government that’s filled with newborn essentials, and which can double as a baby’s crib? The Angel Babybox is an evolution of this simple concept. This multifunctional sleep pod is perfect for newborn sleeping babes, and through some clever folding design tricks, you can transform the crib into a playing and changing mat, a travel cot, a storage box for your house, or just flat pack it away when not in use. It also wins points for being super cute as well as its non-toxic, natural materials.

Available online for $2,452, including delivery. angel-babybox.com

CLASS REVIEW

JINGLE JANGLE PARENT & BABY CLASS, SAI KUNG Like many families, we recently left our shoebox MidLevels apartment for a larger home in Sai Kung. I soon heard that Jingle Jangle was the class to get into. With sessions for tots from six months through to three years, each 45-minute class aims to stimulate a child's senses through music, dance and sensory props. Classes are run by an energetic local mama who puts her own spin on every song and nursery rhyme so that sessions never get dull. I’ve been taking my 15-month-old once a week for three months and have really noticed a difference in how she follows simple instructions from the teacher and interacts with other children. At $170 per class, Jingle Jangle is a cost-effective option in the Sai Kung or Clearwater Bay area.

Classes take place daily at Tina's Dance Studio, 2/F, 15 Man Nin St., Sai Kung Town. facebook.com/pg/jinglejanglemusic

Zoe Belhomme is our resident fitness writer and new mum. She loves working out, eco-friendly parenting, and partnering with her husband to produce some of the region’s biggest sports events at MBS Concepts. Reach out to her directly with your healthy family news at zoe@liv.media.

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THE GUIDE GYMS CROSSFIT ASPHODEL Ccomes equipped with the latest Rogue equipment, four lifting platforms, an ice bath and spacious changing facilities. There’s also a healthy cafe for some post-workout grub.

G/F, 22 Praya, Kennedy Town, 3568-7719, crossfitasphodel.com.

FLEX Flex is a high-end studio popular with the city’s fitness fans. With a full menu of group disciplines including classic Pilates and yoga, as well as classes for kids and teens, the schedule is packed with options.

3/F, Man Cheung Building, 15-17 Wyndham St., Central, 28132399; 308-310, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Rd., Wong Chuk Hang, 2813-2212, flexhk.com.

GOJI ELITE Focuses on strength & conditioning training and martial arts but also offers more specialised classes including Olympic lifting, yoga and pre- and post-natal fitness. First timers visitors enjoy a free trial class.

1/F, Hong Kong Plaza, 188 Connaught Road West, Shek Tong Tsui, 2838-3878, Gojistudios.com.hk HAPPY KID-ULT YOGA With two premium locations in Kowloon, Happy Kid-ult Yoga provides a relaxing and welcoming environment to practice yoga and Pilates. Aside from traditional Hatha classes, the studios also run Yoga Basics classes, mellow Yin Yang, and family-friendly sessions.

19A, The Lamma City, 761 Nathan Rd., Prince Edward; Room 1018, 10/F, Hollywood Plaza, 610 Nathan Rd., Mongkok, 9765-3592, happykidultyoga.com.

HYBRID MMA & FITNESS Hybrid’s facility in the heart of Central is a cut above lots of other MMA gyms out there, offering skills training and sport-specific conditioning, DNA-testing and tailored nutrition planning that uses the latest data-driven technology.

13/F, Entertainment Building, 30 Queens Road Central, 3468-7702, hybridmmafot.com.

MADERA Opened just two months ago, the sparkling new studio is bright and

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airy, specialising in a wide range of relaxation practices, from yoga to singing bowls. $200 drop-in.

1F, Madera Residences, 19 Cheong Lok St., Jordan, 3190-9988, yoga. maderagroup.com OPTIONS PILATES With over 30 classes per week, it’s no surprise where Options Pilates gets its name from. Classes are smaller and more personalised, easily adapted to suit the needs of each guest. The studio also offers preand post-natal classes for new and expecting mothers to stay active.

12/F, 16 Wyndham St., 3188-8112, optionspilatesstudio.com.

O:RIN Located in Quarry Bay, right near the TaiKoo office complex, this relaxed and spacious studio is kitted out with a huge range of equipment. And at a stone’s throw from TaiKoo Place, it’s a perfect lunchtime or post-work pitstop to squeeze in a workout.

Unit 6, 19F Westlands Centre, 20 Westlands Rd., Quarry Bay, 5726-1669, orin.com.hk.

OZONE This premium gym takes a hybrid approach to PT within its open plan space, so even when you work out on your own, trainers are on hand to advise on techniques and training methods without paying for a oneon-one session.

UG/F, Hang Tak Building, 1 Electric St., Wan Chai, ozone.fitness.

SANTI SPACE A friendly boutique yoga studio with a relaxed and earthy vibe.

Disciplines such as flow, yin, alignment and aerial are practiced in front of the studio’s vertical garden for added serenity.

5A, Lockhart Centre, 301-307 Lockhart Rd., Wan Chai, 9602-8864, santispacehk.com.

SHAN STUDIOS Shan Studios is a yoga and meditation studio in Wong Chuk Hang. They offer yoga and meditation classes for all levels, as well as workshops to deepen your practice.

902 Sun Hing Industrial Building, 46 Wong Chuk Hang Rd., Wong Chuk Hang, 9306-6788, shanstudios.com.

WELLNESS CENTRES BYRNE, HICKMAN & PARTNERS One of Hong Kong’s longestestablished physiotherapy practices. Offers treatment for sports injuries, post-operative rehabilitation and clinical Pilates, and can also help to treat chronic and posture-related pain.

Room 201, Dina House, Ruttonjee Centre, 11 Duddell St., Central, 2526-7533. Also has clinics in TST, Repulse Bay, Yuen Long and Sha Tin. www.byrne-hickman.com.

FIVELEMENTS This 15,000-square-foot wellness haven brings the spirit of Fivelements Retreat in Bali to support wellness seekers of all stripes. There’s a wide variety of programmes available, including yoga, movement, martial arts and dance but the urban retreat is best known for its mindfulness and holistic wellbeing sessions.

L13A, Times Square, 1 Matheson St., Causeway Bay, habitat.fivelements. com.

LIFEHUB Through diagnostic tests that explore areas like your gut biome analysis, heavy metals and food intolerances, practitioners at LifeHub gain a better understanding of your overall health to treat potential problems before they arise.

1/F, The Loop, 33 Wellington St., Central, 3622-3452, thelifehub.com.

UP!HEALTH This friendly multidisciplinary clinic offers a variety of health services including chiropractic, sports massage therapy, clinical Pilates, TCM herbal medicine, acupuncture, cupping, kinesiology and counselling in a fun, bright and welcoming space that is miles away from a stuffy doctor’s office.

WESTRETCH Specialising in the art of stretch therapy, the clinic’s signature 50-minute session works through the front and back of the body, as well as the limbs, to ease tightness, release localised tension and increase range of motion in the body.

Wong Chung Ming Commercial House, 13/F, 16 Wyndham St., 2328-7000, we-stretch.com.

11/F, Wellington Place, 2-8 Wellington St., Central, uphealth.com.hk.

THE BODY GROUP This physiotherapy clinic also has a huge range of complementary therapies to help you take charge of your health. Offers several disciplines of bodywork, including fascia release, cranio-sacral therapy, Chi Nei Tseng, sports rehab and relaxation massage.

14/F, Prosperous Building, 48-52 Des Voeux Road Central, 2167-7305, thebodygroup.com.

PAMPER ARMARA GLOW Naturally grown and produced in Morocco, all of Armara Glow’s products are certified organic. Rather than containing a complex blends of ingredients, this beauty brand extracts the purest prickly pear oil ($330) and argan oil ($120) to moisturise and soothe your face in the most natural way possible - and the price is unbeatable too! We love the organic rose water ($140) for its cooling and face-toning properties. armaraimports.com DOLMA WAXING BOUTIQUE Quick and efficient, this clean, waxingonly salon is conveniently located in Central, and the quickest route to your hair removal needs. With over a decade of experience in high-end salons, the eponymous Dolma treats every client herself, with a strict, no double-dipping spatula policy.

Yu To Sang Building, Unit 303, 3/F, 37 Queen’s Road Central, Central; brazilianwaxing.com.hk.

EMMANUEL F In addition to its full organic salon with natural hair dye services, emmanuel f has a whole spa area dedicated to delivering natural face, body, hand, foot and waxing treatments - all using certified organic products from French brand Phyt’s.

U/G, The Pemberton, 22-26 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan, 2167-8280, emmanuelf.com.

FLAWLESS This stylish urban day spa has been specialising in manicures, facials and makeup for eons, much to the delight of HK’s beauty fanatics. For facial treatments, the spa uses celeb fav cosmeceutical line Ultraceuticals, as well as botanical brand Aromatherapy Associates.

4/F, Seabird House, 22-28 Wyndham St., Central, 2869-5868, flawless. hk.com.

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