Liv magazine September 2017 by Liv Media Limited

FITNESS

NUTRITION

WELLBEING

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SEPTEMBER 2017 | l i v - m a g a z i n e . c o m LIV MAGAZINE

Bao Down

Wild Wanaka

Vegetarian dim sum galore

Trail racing New Zealand

Perfect Days A secret retreat in Sai Kung

Retail Therapy

Check out our new shopping page

Join the Club

team sports to try out

Make Yourself Mindful How arts and crafts might actually save your sanity

WIN workout gear, jewellery and pampering treats on p.22!

SEPTEMBER 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

Dining news that’s good for you

16 Cheat Day

Because #YOLO

18 Reviews

A retreat out in Sai Kung, Katonah Yoga

30 Join the Club

September is sports teams season: here’s your chance to give team games a whirl

LIV | MORE 36 Bunly Goodness

Vegetarian dim sum for your veggie out-of-towners

40 Recipe

Watermelon Salad from food blogger Charmaine So

42 Pamper

Our beauty picks for this month

44 Travel

Running New Zealand’s South Island

58 Can’t Liv Without Dee Cheung shares her favourite things

LIV | STORIES 24 Mindful Making

Arts & crafts: the cutest way to start living in the present 48

Sponsored Feature

BOOST YOUR HAPPINESS BY

SLEEPING WELL Feeling overwhelmed? Sleep could be the key to restoring balance

t’s no secret that happiness and good health are intrinsically linked, but there’s more to exercise and diet that contribute to overall health and wellbeing. If you’ve been taking care to stay physically fit and eat well, yet still feel like you’re not reaping the rewards you had hoped for, it’s time to consider what might be having a negative impact on the quality and quantity of your sleep. Many people say laughter is the best medicine, but scientifically speaking, sleep is going to make more of an impact on building and maintaining good health, and in turn make you happier. One of the reasons people who are well-rested have stable moods and tend to be happier overall is related to their hormonal balance, which is improved by adequate sleep. However, the emotional benefits of good sleep go deeper than this: the simple matter of not feeling tired all day contributes to a sense of calmness and patience. Good sleep is associated with greater happiness and empathy, which both work to ensure stronger and more rewarding relationships, attention at work, and even athletic performance. Most of us are conscious of what we eat and the benefits of exercise, but this third critical pillar of health is often overlooked. Many of us deliberately avoid sleep, even seeing it as something that prevents us from ‘getting things done’. We are constantly overstimulated by being

connected to social media 24/7, and in our society today, there is a stigma associated with the idea of looking after our own need for quality rest. In contrast, studies have shown that adequate quantities of deep, restorative slumber help the brain consolidate learning and improve memory and recall, as well as contributing to heightened alertness and faster reaction times. From a more self-reflective angle, as you begin to examine and think about the factors affecting your sleep, you will naturally also develop a deeper understanding of yourself and a more profound insight into the forces that shape your life. These cognitive benefits also spill over into overall happiness and a sense of wellbeing. Here at Koala, we believe that everyone should be empowered to live life to the fullest. We certainly encourage working hard, playing hard and — most importantly — resting hard to pack the most into each day. After all, your overall health and happiness are just as important as climbing the corporate ladder.

Special offer!

$1,000 OFF enter code H A P P Y S L E E P 2 0 1 7 at hk.koala.com

EDITOR’S LETTER

FEELING CRAFTY? I’m quite happy to admit that I don’t have a crafty bone in my body. But after seeing what some of the city’s talented makers are capable of cross-stitching - and learning all about the physical and mental health benefits of taking up a creative activity - I’m ready to pick up the knitting needles and create a wonky scarf in the name of mindfulness! We hope you are too; read all about the craft scene and how it can make you mindful on p.24. September is also the month for try-outs for many social sports clubs. If you’re looking to make friends and keep fit, getting involved in a sports team is a great idea, particularly if you’re new to town. Hong Kong has a vibrant (and quite competitive!) scene for all kinds of sports; read about a few of them on p.30. Whether you’re a herbivore (or flexitarian) yourself, or have a visiting friend who’s a veggie, it’s always good to have some vegfriendly Chinese restaurants in your back pocket. The ones we’ve picked on p.36 give you a comprehensive range of meat-free dishes without compromising on creativity or flavour. We’ve added a new section! Wishlist (p.6) offers a few shopping ideas for cool things the Liv team is drooling over this month. Whether it’s a big-ticket item, a cool gift from a sustainable business or just a covetable beauty product - if it makes our lives better, we’re sharing it with you!

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS Want to get mindful but can’t bear sitting and staring at a wall? Get making! Zoe Belhomme finds out why everyone is into crafts these days, p.24. Ever wanted to go to Jeju Island? We had never even heard of it, but Kate Springer makes a strong case on p.48.

Beauty maven Rachel Read gives it some serious lip in her column on p.42.

It’s pointless cajoling your kids to work out if you don’t get moving too. Kate Farr searches for family-friendly fitness on p.50.

Avid runner Kate Turbett tackled Wanaka in New Zealand last Easter. Read all about it on p.44.

ON THE COVER We were granted permission to use this gorgeous crossstitch courtesy of online crafting store Satsuma Street. Check it out on satsumastreet.etsy.com.

SARAH FUNG PUBLISHER

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Send invites and info to: Makerhive, 10/F, Cheung Hing Industrial Building, 12P Smithfield, Kennedy Town PUBLISHER SARAH FUNG SENIOR SALES MANAGER ANSHU RIJHWANI SALES MANAGER AILEEN CHAN WRITER ZOE BELHOMME SOCIAL MEDIA STACEY MARCELO ADMINISTRATOR JASMIN BLUNCK GRAPHIC DESIGN TAMMY TAN CONTRIBUTORS KATE FARR, KATE SPRINGER, RACHEL READ, DEIRDRE GRIFFIN, KATE TURBETT PRINTED BY GEAR PRINTING LIMITED, ROOM B, 3/F, DERRICK INDUSTRIAL BUILDING, 49-51 WONG CHUK HANG ROAD, ABERDEEN ‘‘Liv Magazine’’ Copyright 2017 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.

Retail Therapy

WISHLIST

Here's what we're crushing on this month

THE FUTURE’S BRIGHT

Cult mask brand Karuna’s Brightening sheet mask will leave your skin radiant. All of its products are free from parabens, dyes and mineral oils. $270 for four sheets from Joyce Beauty.

BERRY TASTY

Freeze-dried strawberries lend this gourmet protein powder an authentic fruity flavour. $488 per kilo from protelicious.com.

ALL WHITE ON THE NIGHT

We’re keeping things simple with this plain white tee; the mesh illusion neckline helps to keep things cool. $430 from aumnie.com.

BAG IT UP

Roomy, theft-resistant and stylish, the Pacsafe Citysafe CX backpack is perfect for urban warriors. $1,180 from Pacsafe. 6

Retail Therapy

GOLD MINE

BEST-LAID PLANS

Look fighting fabulous in this shimmery pair of boxer shorts that’ll take you from the sparring ring to the cocktail bar. AUD49 from liquidoactive.com.

Keep track of your appointments with this rose gold monthly planner pad. $95 from kikki.K.

TOTAL WASHOUT

Sensitive skin? Wash your clothes in Nellie’s All-Natural Laundry Soda, which is made with soda ash and coconut oilbased surfactants. The oceans will thank you. We love the retro tin, too! $134.90 for 1.5 kilos from iherb.com.

EASY DOES IT

Sore muscles after a workout? MOA’s Fortifying Green Bath Potion contains peppermint, fennel, fir needle and sweet birch to ease aches and pains and boost your mood. $350 from gooseberrybeauty.com.

FEELING FRUITY

Social enterprise Micro Forests works with disadvantaged women from Sham Shui Po to create these terrarium fruit hampers for Mid-Autumn Festival. $980 from micro-forests.com.

THAT’S A WRAP

Reduce plastic waste at home with these reusable food wrappers made from beeswax. They’ll last for years if you treat them right. $140 for six from plasticfreehk.com.

HELLO YELLOW

Who says your turmeric latte has to cost a bomb? Tesco’s own powdered turmeric is a total bargain. $13.90 from honestbee.hk. 7

Calendar

IT’S A DATE

OCT 13-15

TEND YOUR GARDEN

Block your weekend for The Garden Gathering, a three-day overnight festival for women and children, with workshops, sacred ceremonies and events, all aimed at healing your soul and reconnecting with your feminine energy. Set on an organic farm on Cheung Chau, There’ll be dozens of events, speakers and facilitators from the city’s wellness scene, in disciplines as varied

as meditation, mandala making, midwifery, mindful crafting and much, much more. There will also be a marketplace selling food and other goodies. Tickets include a vegetarian breakfast and dinner; book your camping spot separately. $1,800 for the full weekend; $1,500 (two days) and $1,000 (one day). thegardengathering.com.

SEP 10

GOODWILL HUNTING

Make room in your wardrobe: the third instalment of the Rug Lane Vintage and Secondhand Clothing Markets takes place at Rhoda this month. Tickets include snacks and drinks, and so you’ll be eating specially prepared nibbles using livefire cooking methods while you search through a treasure trove of vintage and secondhand goods. A great way to reduce fast-fashion waste! $165, Includes drink, bap and lucky draw ticket. 11am4pm, Rhoda, 345 Des Voeux Road West, Shek Tong Tsui. Tickets via ticketflap.com. 8

N BOOK

ASK THE EXPERT Dr. Raymond Yip, Specialist in Orthopaedics and Traumatology at the Matilda International Hospital, talks us through some of Hong Kong’s common musculoskeletal complaints. Q. Sciatic pain bothers me a lot. I have tried physiotherapy and medicine, but to limited effect. How else can I relieve the pain? Sciatic pain is a shooting, tingling pain that originates in the lower back and travels down the sciatic nerve in the leg. Both legs can be affected, and sufferers can find it quite debilitating. If physiotherapy and medication haven’t been effective, you can try an epidural steroid injection, which allows for a much stronger concentration of medication with minimal to no side effects. If, after three months of conservative treatment you are not seeing an improvement in your condition, surgery is another possible option.

NOV 18

RUN GIRL

The second edition of the Women’s Five race is happening this November. As the name suggests, the it's a 5k race, but it takes a very different approach. Held with women in mind, the run focuses on getting participants into tip-top shape, helping with their training every step of the way. It starts with a five-week health, wellness and fitness program with yoga and running meetups, as well as weekly emails packed with information and tips on how to stay healthy, before culminating in a 5k run on the Ma On Shan Promenade. For this event, the Women’s Five has also teamed up with Rainlily, a local crisis centre for the protection of sexual violence victims. $100 from each race entry fee will be donated to the charity. It’s a great way to stay accountable to your fitness goals, make friends and have a ton of fun too! Five-week progam and race: $800 ($1,600 for two); run only: $390 ($780 for two). www.womensfive.com.

Q. I have lower back pain and numbness in my left leg. I’ve made an appointment to see a doctor. What should I expect from my first consultation? Congratulations in taking the first step towards managing your condition - aches and pains, while a normal part of life, are not something we should have to endure and there are many ways to treat them. We note the distribution of pain, take the history of the condition, and whether the pain is acute or chronic (i.e. lasting more than three months). We do a physical examination to assess for pain, muscle spasms and muscle wasting. We take a note of your posture, check of any listing of the spine, and we will also undertake a neurological examination for any lower limb weakness, numbness or loss of reflexes. Lastly we will do some imaging studies to assess for any neurological compression, as well as disc or bone disease. Once we have a diagnosis, we can explore treatment options.

t 5501-6699 | orthopaedic@matilda.org | orthopaedic.matilda.org

Information presented by Matilda Hospital

Calendar

SEP 23-24

THINK PINK

A two-day carnival celebrating women and wellness, Pinky Fest will be featuring more than 80 health, beauty, skincare and wellness vendors to get you glowing, inside and out. There will be tons of freebies up for grabs, as well as yoga classes, wellness workshops, a pink splash party and plenty more.

SEP 16

HIT YOUR PEAK

Hit the trails of Pat Sing Leng Country Park for a challenging but rewarding run. Eco-friendly organiser The GreenRace has organised a 15 and 30k run over the park’s eight peaks, or “Immortals,” where you’ll race along an impressive ridge, with views of the country park to one side and Shenzhen’s imposing cityscape on the other. Expect stunning scenery, tough climbs and more steps than you’ll care to remember! There will also be a 5k run later in the morning that’s perfect for active families. 5k ($250), 15k ($350) and 30k ($400). Starting point: Kong Ha Au Barbecue Sitein Plover Cove Country Park, New Territories. thegreenrace.hk/immortals.

New Central Harbourfront. Tickets $90-$380 from cityline.com. Price Depends on ticket category. pinkyfest.com.

OCT 1

#YOLO

Participants of Hong Kong’s first YOLO Run are encouraged to free themselves from their inhibitions. After two successful years in Singapore, Hong Kong will host its very own event at the Science Park. There’s a non-competitive 5k race, as well as a 10k timed option for more serious runners. Want to embrace the #YOLO spirit? Run in your sports bra (or shirtless, if you're a guy) and organizers will donate $20 to Plan International, which fights for girls’ rights in developing countries. The race ends with a yoga session and stretching. $350-400. 8am-noon, Hong Kong Science Park, Pak Shek Kok, www.yolorun.com.

SEP 11

SCREENS AND SILKS

In partnership with sustainable fashion NGO Redress, Conscious Cinema will be showing a screening of "The True Cost," a documentary about the damage to our planet caused by the fashion industry. The entrance fee includes a screening, a glass of organic wine and a plant-based pizza. Bring a bag of unwanted clothes to be recycled or upcycled. $200. 6pm, Eaton House, 5/F, Champion Tower, 3 Garden Rd., Central. Tickets at www.eventbrite.hk. 10

Cool Stuff

HOT RIGHT NOW News from the wellness scene

Liquido Assets

Hailing from Brazil, Liquido Active is the latest fitness apparel making a name for itself in gyms and yoga studios across the city. Known for eye-catching prints, buttery-soft feel and technical fabrics, Liquidoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s range of stylish activewear is designed to not only be comfortable, but also help you stand out from the crowd. New limited-edition patterns are released every month and so you have to move fast so you can get your hands on newest collections before they sell out. www.liquidoactive.com.au.

A Sporting Chance

Love the great outdoors but hate running to ten different shops to stock up on gear? Finally, a onestop-shop for all your sporting needs has arrived in Hong Kong! From sports and running gear through to rock climbing equipment and even bikes, Decathlon stocks an extensive range of brands (including its own) at seriously impressive prices think compression leggings and hiking backpacks for just $249. The two large stores, which opened simultaneously in Causeway Bay and Mong Kok, also have specialist sports areas for golf, tennis, football, basketball and rugby, so you can try before you buy. Basement, Grand Plaza, 639 Nathan Rd., Mong Kok; 5993-3727; 1/F, Park Lane, 310 Gloucester Rd., Causeway Bay, 5992-1321, decathlon.com.hk. 12

Cool Stuff

Bloomin’ Marvellous

We all love fresh flowers, and new couture florist van der Bloom’s new shop on Hollywood Road does absolutely beautiful bouquets. Using the freshest, inseason flowers, van der Bloom offers modern designs with great value. It also offers a subscription service and next-day delivery, all of which can be managed via your online account. And it’s not just their reasonable prices that we love: the beautiful loft space above the shop is where they’ll hold regular floral workshops and flower jamming, as well as small private events. G/F, 61 Hollywood Rd., Central, 5505-1661, www.vanderbloom.com.hk.

Just Corked

If you slip and slide during a sweaty alfresco or hot yoga practice, ZOLO’s range of cork yoga mats and accessories could be just what you need so you can feel secure as you pose. Cork is naturally grippier with sweat and water, plus it dries out quickly and doesn’t get hot to use under direct sunlight. The mats are also naturally hypoallergenic and antimicrobial, meaning they are less likely to have mould, odor and bacteria growth. Sustainably harvested, non-slip and ecofriendly? This local company is onto a winner.

Time for Tea

You may have seen the queues stretching out the door at lunchtime, or its distinctive bright pink flamingo print all over your instagram feed. Either way, Flamingo Bloom has quickly made an impression among the city’s tea fanatics. Embracing traditional Chinese tea culture, the new homegrown salon on Stanley Street serves up premium loose leaf flavoured tea. They don’t add refined sugar, preferring to sweeten their teas using all-natural fruits and flavours. Can’t pick from the extensive menu? Flamingo Bloom offers a few signature combinations, including orange and jasmine tea with boba pearls and French rose; smashed strawberries and jasmine; or salted milk cap with chrysanthemum pu’er and boba beetroot milk. Every Flamingo Bloom tea is well shaken to create an airier, frothier and more fragrant brew. G/F, 50 Stanley St., Central, 2483-1778, www.flamingo-bloom.com.

6826-3852, zolowellness.com.

Dining

FRESH CUTS Dining news that’s good for you

HAWK THE TALK Your lunch break options in Quarry Bay just got a lot more exciting with the launch of Hawkr, a new grab n’ go healthy Asian concept by private kitchen chef Mina Park. Inspired by Singapore’s hawker centres, diners can pick from a range of pan-Asian cuisines, all reimagined as fresh and healthy dishes. Think Vietnamese cabbage chicken salad, rainbow peanut noodles or Balinese salmon and long bean salads. There’s also beef rendang, green chicken curry or noodle soups if you’re looking for something hot and filling. Even better: most of the dishes ring in at around $60 or less, so it’s somewhere you’ll be able to return to on the regular - and pick up a coffee or fresh juice while you’re at it. And while we’ve not had official confirmation yet, there’s a Hawkr-branded hoarding going up at Pacific Place Three as well. G/F, 36 Hoi Kwong St., Quarry Bay, facebook.com/hawkrhk.

Dining

GOING UP Cheeky Embroidery Forget flower patterns. We love a rude word or two - it’s cathartic on several levels! For inspo, check out subversivecrossstitch.com.

NICE BUNS, HON Veggie burgers are all the rage, with many of our meatiest dining outlets jumping onto the meat-free trend. Leading the charge is Morrison Cafe & Bar, which offers a potato and chickpea creation ($98) that was recently voted the city’s best veggie burger. Riding high on their success, they’ve also added a vegan-friendly falafel burger ($98), which we got to sample. We love the crunchy falafel and fresh salad ingredients jammed into a sweet, soft bun. Morrison is a hive of entertainment with Tuesday open mic nights, live bands on Saturday, and jazz and blues sessions on a Sunday. Want your burger fix for less? Every Wednesday night is buy-one-get-one-free on burgers and beers. 284 Queen’s Road Central, Sheung Wan, 2310-9777, www.morrisonhk.com.

SEA FOOD Relaxing alfresco dining spots are hard to come by in this town, which is why we’re so excited about Bathers opening up on Lantau’s Cheung Sha Beach. With a laid-back vibe, Bathers is the perfect place to rest your tired limbs after you’ve conquered some of the toughest terrains Hong Kong has to offer. Their kitchen serves up classic beach fare, such as beer-battered barracuda, salt and pepper squid, summery salads, ceviches, and appetizers. If you’re after something more substantial, the menu also includes charred pork chops, grilled lobster and steaks. It’s also a great spot for larger groups and private parties. 32 Lower Cheung Sha Village, Lantau, 2504-4788, www.bathers.com.hk.

Backpacks as Work Bags

Better for your back, safe for your laptop and so damn practical. We’re seeing tons of chic styles that are totally conference room-friendly!

Boozy Brunches Reclaim your Sunday evening by brunching sans alcohol - and save your excesses for special occasions. Your wallet will thank you too!

The Great Gym Closures of Summer ‘17 The summer saw several of our favourite healthy businesses shut their doors. This is one trend we can’t get onboard with. :(

GOING DOWN 15

Dining

CHEAT DAY

Because life’s too short to always order the salad

GOURMANDS OF THE GALAXY Mid-Autumn Festival is just around the corner, which means mooncakes galore! Don’t dig on the traditional salty egg and lotus seed paste pastries? The Mira’s chocolatey alternative could be right up your street. These cosmic limited-edition miniature “mooncakes” are made to resemble the surface of the moon. Each piece is individually hand-brushed with cosmic colors and infused with tea. Flavour combos include uji matcha green tea with white chocolate and sesame; Ecuadorian milk chocolate infused with pure ceylon earl grey tea and zesty Japanese sudachi (a type of citrus); and organic dark chocolate with smoky Fujian lapsang souchong black tea. The chocolates are available in limited quantities so you’ll have to be quick if you want to get your hands on them. A box of six pieces is $268, but you can get 20 percent off orders placed before September 15. Buy online or at the COCO patisserie. The Mira Hotel, 118 Nathan Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, 2315-5566, www.themirahotel.com.

Sponsored Feature

Akmon Anti pollution mask Breathe in Style

 THE BUZZ: You worry about your health but you are not ready to wear a mask that doesn’t suit your lifestyle? Discover Akmon, the latest brand of anti pollution masks. Just launched few months ago and after 2 years of careful developments, Akmon masks offer a comfortable and effective way of mitigating the harmful effects of air pollution. There is no need to choose anymore between protection and fashion.  THE EXPERIENCE: Each facemask provides the best ergonomically ﬁt and seal while the ﬁlter acts as a barrier against 95% of harmful air pollutants.  DESIGN: Every parts of the mask have been thought for a great comfort but also so that it looks great around your face. You can now choose the color and style that matches the most your lifestyle without compromising on your health. The facemask comes in nine different color variations. Akmon is the best way to feel protected and at the same time look good!

 COMFORT: The mask is extremely comfortable to wear. After a few adjustments, the mask sits seamlessly on your face, you feel the action of the valves and automatically feel protected. The inner layer has been built with ‘CoolMax’ technology; this performance fabric is commonly used in the sports industry for its breathability, ‘moisture wicking’ and accelerated drying qualities. A quick attach system made with high-quality Velcro makes Akmon very easy to adjust. The side elastics ensure greater comfort, fit and better freedom of motion when wearing the mask. Moreover, the masks have been designed to be glasses friendly.  EFFICIENCY: Akmon special filter is composed of four layers. The heart of it is packaged between two protective layers, the Akmon outer layer and the double punch cotton inner layer. Both of these fabrics promote comfort and breathability. The two central layers of the filter consist of an active carbon layer and a particle filter. These layers are fused together to act as a barrier against germs, gases, pollen, dust, odours and the smallest harmful airborne viruses (PM2.5). All four layers have been laboratory tested to ensure that 95% of air pollutants are filtered upon inhalation. The filter needs

www.akmonconcept.com - Worldwide shipping

to be changed every 2weeks for an hour of daily utilization.  USAGE: Akmon masks have been created for people who commute in their city. Initially designed for motorcycle, the masks can easily be used for cyclists and pedestrians. For the sport enthusiasts, we wouldn’t recommend to wear it for high intensity training, but it could suit a light and easy outdoor activity.  SIZE: 3 Sizes (S, M, L), there is a size chart on the website to help choosing what suits you best.  THE COST: Starter kit 75usd (ready to use mask - with the filter & valves already installed + a set of 2 additional filters)  FILTERS RECHARGE: Pack 2X filters 18usd // Pack 5X filters 36usd. Possibility have your filters automatically delivered every month (subscription plan)  THE VERDICT: Akmon lets you take back control; for those who prioritize their health and appreciate good design and comfort, you no longer have to compromise your daily life because of bad air quality. Akmon will help you to keep on enjoying your cities and your passions, whilst being protected with the most technically advanced product on the market.

Reviews

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

WORKOUT

Full Body Class at HIT45 The Buzz: Many of us are turning to HIIT workouts as a

convenient way of keeping in shape. Just 45 minutes of pushing yourself to the limit can provide more fitness benefits than a two-hour run - and you can do a class in your lunchbreak! HIT45 offers a high-intensity mix of cardio, free weights and bodyweight exercises as a way of helping people achieve measureable fitness gains. The Classes: HIT45 runs eight classes a day during the week, so there’s no excuse to slack off. We kicked off our session with a vigorous warm up on the self-powered GreenJog treadmills, followed by some sprints either set to a time or distance. The rest of the session was weightbased training, and as we were doing a full-body day, there were three separate sets specifically targeting the legs, arms and core. The Verdict: OK, so we struggled with the super-

challenging treadmill, but we have to concede it is a great way to quickly build fitness and aerobic capacity. The rest of the session was manageable, but because it’s just a 45-minute class there is no time for breaks! The class sizes are also relatively small, and the gym area is super spacious, which we loved. The Cost: Individual classes cost $270, with various

packages available. Abdoolally House, 20 Stanley St., Central, 2724-4226, hit45hk.com.

Katonah Yoga at SharedSpace The Buzz: SharedSpace is a new yoga and movement

studio in Causeway Bay teaching a variety of classes informed by disciplines such as dance, yoga, parkour and strength training. One such class is Katonah Yoga. Founded by Nevine Michaan, it’s a Hatha yoga practice refined over forty years, blended with Taoist theory, Sacred Geometry, pranayama and meditation. The Class: Our teacher for the hour-long lunchtime

practice was Clare Lim, the only certified Katonah Yoga teacher in Asia and one of only 30 globally. While the discipline is relatively new on the scene, its following is growing rapidly as it supports alignment and helps people become aware of their tendencies and habits. The session covered variations of just four poses, but great care and attention was given to make sure people received the full benefit of each movement. The Verdict: The session made us think differently about

the purpose of yoga and movement-based classes. For some, not ending a class dripping in sweat means it just wasn’t tough enough, but if you embrace the mindful movements, Katonah Yoga can be highly beneficial to a diverse wellness routine. The Cost: Drop-in classes are $200, but for first-timers,

the studio is currently offering three classes for $300. 31/F, The Sharp, 11-13 Sharp Street East, Causeway Bay, 6687-3701, www.sharedspace.hk. 18

Reviews

SPA

RETREAT

Sponsored Feature

AROUND TOWN JOHN MASTERS™ ORGANICS

Swap Your Shampoo with John Masters™ Organics This September, pioneering organic beauty brand John MastersTM Organics will be running a Shampoo Swap. Committed to all things green, John MastersTM Organics will be inviting members of the public to drop off their used shampoo bottles or any unused full shampoo bottles (from any brand) at either their Times Square or IFC outlet in exchange for a brand-new, full-sized John MastersTM Organics Lavender & Rosemary Shampoo for Normal Hair (valued at $180), while stocks last. All unused or unopened shampoo bottles will be donated to J Life Foundation - a local charity committed to helping underprivileged families - to redistribute to people in need, while empty or previously used shampoo bottles will be processed by HK Recycles.

LE MERIDIEN CYBERPORT

Sleep well, Stay well Le Méridien Cyberport is the first hotel in Hong Kong to offer PURE® Allergy Friendly Rooms designed specifically for guests with allergies or asthma. Surfaces are specially treated and air is continually circulated and purified, drastically reducing irritants that could keep you from resting comfortably. PURE Rooms can help you get a great night’s sleep and awake feeling completely refreshed so you can enjoy your stay. With this wellness package, you can enjoy a one-night comfort stay at the Pure room, an organic salad buffet lunch at PSI bar and one session of Huber Motion class. For more details, please visit lemeridiencyberport.com.

YOUNI BODY

Be the healthiest you ever With 7 locations across Hong Kong, YouniBody offers top registered dieticians, naturopaths, health coaches, precision testing, personalised nutrition plans, professional grade supplements and holistic therapies. Bioresonance therapy treats many city ailments that modern people and children face, from eczema to sleep apnea and more. Its non-invasive, drugless methods makes it safe for children. Envision forward thinking healthcare, where health testing becomes convenient and simple. Where prevention of diseases trumps curing it. By eliminating the guesswork, our mission is to curate the best possible holistic healthcare, fitness and nutrition plans for you. The result is that you'll feel strong, happy and in control of your own health. Contact us now for a free consultation!

Younibody.com, #givelovegethealthy

Cover Story

The Craft of

MINDFULNESS Photo: InkNFlourish

As life gets ever busier, an increasing number of people are finding a sense of calm through crafting. Zoe Belhomme meets the makers finding inner peace, one cross-stitch at a time.

he term “mindfulness” has been bandied about a lot in recent years, and with good reason. The practice of becoming more present and conscious in our day-to-day lives has helped many deal with stress and anxiety, pay attention to their surroundings and process their emotions in both their work and personal lives. But it’s one thing to want to become more mindful; quite another to actually achieve it. Increasingly, people are turning to good, oldfashioned crafting as a way to blow off steam, engage their creative side and find peace in the soothing repetition of knitting, cross-stitch, pottery or calligraphy - not to mention the self-esteem boost of creating beautiful and useful products from scratch.

“Mindfulness is about being present in the moment, rather than being stuck in our heads,” says Dr. Barbara Mariposa in her book, The Mindfulness Playbook. “When we engage in an enjoyable craft, our brainwaves slow down in the same way we meditate. The chatter in our heads that makes us feel stressed and anxious fades into the background.'' In fact, crafting-as-therapy has taken off around the world. The British Journal of Occupational Therapy surveyed more than 3,500 knitters worldwide and found that more than 80 percent of them experienced positive mental health effects from crafting. Meanwhile, the Craft Yarn Council in the US estimates that up to a third of women aged 25- to 35 now knit.

Cover Story

STITCHES FOR YOUR SOUL Avid knitter Laura O’Brien was taught knitting by her mother at the age of eight, but she only revisited the pastime at the end of last year. “Straight away I noticed that it was not only good mental exercise, I also started seeing some other general mental health benefits,” she says. She began knitting in earnest six months later after her mother was diagnosed with cancer. “Knitting made the long hours each day in the hospital bearable - having something to occupy my hands dramatically reduced both my anxiety and restlessness, as well as giving me a purpose - tangibly helping in some small way,” she adds.

Photos: Make & Do HK

“Knitting is not about owning a handmade pair of socks or a custom fitted cardigan; it is about the pleasure of the process,” says Becky Gilmour of Make & Do HK, a crafting collective that began as a monthly get-together in Becky’s Sai Ying Pun apartment, and is now a fully-fledged, full-time venture that Becky runs with her sister, Lucy. “We are all about encouraging mindfulness through crafting. People are so overworked and the risk of burnout is high,” says Gilmour, who left a high-flying career in the fashion industry to craft full time. “To be creative and playful, while doing something practical and physical at the same time, is very grounding and really brings us into the present. Your thoughts and issues float away and your body engages with your senses and you become totally absorbed in making instead,” she adds. 25

Cover Story

MEET YOUR MAKERS Located in Kwai Chung, Muddy Makers is a ceramic studio founded by three local artists. It offers fun recreational classes, as well as in-depth skills-building sessions for advanced potters who want to improve their techniques. “There is a a kind of 'maker' culture that has helped bring more attention back to crafts, and we think this trend will continue for quite some time,” says Muddy Makers co-founder Ryan Chan. “Working with clay is a very natural and accessible craft, and when you’ve finished there is a real sense of pleasure in the fact you’ve made something yourself, from scratch. The whole process can also be very relaxing and therapeutic,” Chan adds. Anna Cennamo specializes in the ancient art of traditional paper making. She also produces hand-dyed paper and fabrics from teas and other natural sources and has her own studio, where she works with artists and local brands to create bespoke paper and stationery.”

She says: “Making things with your own hands gives you immense satisfaction because you can truly express yourself in creating something unique and personal. That’s why more and more people are taking part in crafting workshops; it is a social experience where people meet, learn, and share something meaningful.” Trained architect and founder of InknFlourish, Joyce Chiang makes a living out of calligraphy after falling in love with the highly skilled art. Flowing lines, intricate illustrations, soft colors and beautiful textures has become Joyce’s signature look. Interest in calligraphy is growing in Hong Kong, and Chiang believes that not only can it be a meditative experience, it is an opportunity to sit down and take a breather from a busy city life. She adds: “As you practice you naturally get better, and seeing your own progress is so satisfying and rewarding.” 26

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What H is this MOVEMENT stuff all about?

ello from SharedSpace! We run a Yoga+Movement Studio in Causeway Bay. Because the term ‘MOVEMENT’ is new and unfamiliar for many, we have put together some fun facts to keep you informed and get you moving! Enjoy!

THE MOVEMENT PARADIGM

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THE MILLENNIAL MOVEMENT PODCAST

Fitness, Health and Wellness have come a long way over the millennia. As a collective, we are making a shift from the one size fits all, ‘magic pill’ paradigm - finding the best diet, doing the one workout that brings the biggest #gainz - to one of wholeness, emphasising personal needs, holistically looking at different aspects of one’s life beyond the physical, to the mental and emotional. We call this the paradigm shift from Fitness to Movement.

FROM FITNESS TO MOVEMENT While trending fitness circuits help develop the body in the gym or on the mat, a movement practice stimulates body and mind both in and out of class, encouraging us to creatively find ways to incorporate more movement patterns in our lives. The good news: we all have bodies, and we all move. Movement is already part of our work day, our Sunday brunch with friends or the occasional

Saturday night out. You are walking, dancing and squatting in mechanically difficult patterns that took years to learn. That time was by no coincidence the period where your learning capacities grew at their fastest rate.

QUESTIONS TO BE ASKED ARE: 1. How much of the day do you move? 2. How much of the day do you not move? 3. How well do you move? 4. How complex are your movement patterns? “We have a brain for one reason and one reason only, and that's to produce adaptable and complex movements” - Daniel Wolpert, Neuroscientist, PhD; TedTalk “The real reason for brains”

MOVEMENT PRACTICE defined by SharedSpace noun | /'mu vm(∂)nt praktIs‘/ 1.The Process Of Continuously Diversifying One’s Physical Practice. PROCESS, as opposed to GOAL Oriented. A Game about Experimentation-, Play,Exploration. “My movement practice helps me to stay on top of my game and grow in body and mind.”

HOW ARE YOU MOVING TODAY?

ABOUT SHAREDSPACE

FIND US HERE:

If you’d like to explore more movement patterns, come to SharedSpace for our Movement Flow classes:

SharedSpace is a Yoga+Movement Studio in Causeway Bay with diverse daily classes in a supportive community. SharedSpace is also Hong Kong’s home to Katonah Yoga and Parkour 101.

31/F, THE SHARP, 11-13 SHARP ST EAST, CAUSEWAY BAY, HONG KONG www.sharedspace.hk

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THE BUSINESS OF CRAFTING Three Keys Craft Space is a shared studio in Chai Wan that offers space, tools and resources to people who want to craft, regardless of their experience level and interests. It provides equipment and - most importantly in Hong Kong, space - for woodwork, embroidery and everything in-between. Founder Rocky Yip set up the space to provide a creative outlet for Hongkongers. “People want to invest time in not just creating something for themselves, but also in learning new skills. With small spaces at home, it's hard to have the tools and equipment to nurture these interests. With the rise of maker spaces, people can explore those ideas and interests and maybe eventually even turn it into a career.” He adds, “We have a lot of people who say, ‘we always wanted to try, but…’. Without fail, as soon as their first class is over they realize how simple it can be and they don’t understand why they didn’t do it before. Their sense of creativity is reignited.”

WANT TO GIVE MINDFUL CRAFTING A GO? Here’s where to start: MAKE & DO HK

A creative community of makers run by sisters Lucy and Becky Gilmour. Holds regular workshops and get-togethers for embroidery, felting, macrame, jewellery and accessory making and lots more. www.instagram.com/make.and.do.hk.

THREE KEYS CRAFT SPACE

A co-working space in Chai Wan especially for designers and makers. Has equipment to help you create just about anything you can think of, as well as a regular events calendar for workshops and classes. threekeyshk.com.

THE CRAFTIES

A craft-based co-working space that holds regular workshops and classes in everything from soap-making and jewellery-making to screen printing and crotchet... and everything in-between. Also has an online marketplace where makers can sell their wares. www.thecrafties.hk.

YARN IN THE WORKS

A crafting community space in PoHo that runs regular knitting and crochet workshops. Also has an online store with top quality knitting and haberdashery products. yarnintheworks.com.

HANDMADE HONG KONG

Regular craft market where local makers can sell their wares. www.handmadehongkong.com.

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HKrefer

ALL TEAMED UP Whether you’re new to Hong Kong, or just fancy trying something different, team sports are a great way to meet new people and keep fit at the same time. Here’s our beginner’s guide to the sports club scene. By Zoe Belhomme.

Tea m S p o r t s

CRICKET WHAT IS IT: A bat-and-ball game played between two teams. One team bats, attempting to score as many runs as possible, while their opponents field. Then they switch sides for the next round, or “innings,” as they’re known. Depending on the type of match, the teams have one or two innings apiece. The Hong Kong Men’s team is currently ranked 15th in the world.

Women’s Twenty20 Cup. There is also a Women's Sixes tournament and a newly introduced Women’s development league where teams participate in an eight-a-side pairs cricket format.

GET INVOLVED: There are two major women’s series played in Hong Kong: the Women’s League and the

MORE INFO: www.hkcricket.org.

COST: Roughly $500-$1,000 a year. However, if you join a private members’ club such as HKCC, HKFC or KCC, there will be additional charges.

RUGBY

WHAT IS IT: Popular with both men and women, rugby is a strategic full-contact sport where teams of 15 work together to get the ball over an opposition’s try line. If you don’t fancy someone tackling you to the ground, there is also a touch rugby league. GET INVOLVED: The Hong Kong Rugby Union (HKRU) run eight men’s and three women’s 15-a-side leagues from the end of September right through to April. From the Premiership division for the dedicated/semiprofessional athletes, to the National League which is perfect for beginners, the HKRU wants to encourage as many people as possible to try the game. The rugby community consist of 18 senior clubs, with 61 teams in the men’s leagues and 25 teams in the women’s league. COST: Typically, subs are around $800-$1,000 a year. However if you join a club such as HKCC or the HKFC, membership will be substantially more. MORE INFO: www.hkrugby.com.

Tea m S p o r t s

NETBALL WHAT IS IT: Popular in many Commonwealth nations, netball is a fast and skillful game where teams of seven have to work to shoot the ball into a net. Players cannot run when they are holding the ball. Instead, they must pivot on their landing foot to pass the ball on to a teammate. There’s not much specialist equipment required, hence its popularity. GET INVOLVED: Perhaps because of the sport’s accessibility, the Hong Kong Netball Association (HKNA) league has grown in popularity, with more divisions added to meet demand. There are Photo: Takumi Photography

currently seven divisions catering to all levels, from the complete novice right through to the advanced player. Club trials typically take place in September and games are played on a Monday evening from October through to April. There’s also the opportunity to play in events like the Hong Kong Beach 5’s and the mixed summer netball league, which are always super fun and social. COST: Yearly HKNA fees are around $1,000. The clubs themselves will typically charge a small membership fee and you might need to contribute to costs such as umpiring and kit. MORE INFO: www.netball.org.hk.

Photo: Takumi Photography

HOCKEY WHAT IS IT: Invented by the British in the 1800’s, modern field hockey is played with 10 outfielders and one goalie. The objective is to score in the opposition’s goal as many times as possible within a 70-minute match. The ball can’t touch your feet, nor hit the back of your stick; either infringement results in a free pass to the other team. While it’s not officially a contact sport, argy-bargy is standard and players must wear shin pads and a mouth guard for protection against rogue, flying balls. GET INVOLVED: The Hong Kong Hockey Association (HKHA) runs six men’s and six women’s leagues from the end of September right through to April. Whether 32

you’ve been playing competitively for years, were forced at school, or have never even picked up a stick, there will be a division to match your ability. The hockey community consists of 19 clubs, many of which have multiple teams. Remember that the social aspect is a big part of the hockey culture, so be prepared to commit to post-match drinks every week. COST: Subs are typically around $2,000 a year. If you join a club such as HKCC, HKFC or KCC, however, membership will be substantially more. MORE INFO: www.hockey.org.hk.

pd o ir ot s F i t n e s s | B o u t iTqeuaem S St u

NASM, TRX, VIPR, trigger point, and CPR/AED. 2/F, World Trust Tower, 50 Stanley St., Central, 2868-5170, www.opstudiohk.com.

PHERFORM

From the founders of Bikini Fit bootcamp comes Pherform, a women-specific health and fitness studio in Central. It runs a different fitness discipline or activity each day, so that by the end of the week you’ve worked out every part of your body. Classes include a TRXbased Hard-Core class for core conditioning; Sculpt (which targets specific muscles), yoga, spinning and deadlifting. 2/F, Man Cheung Building, 15-17 Wyndham St., Central, 2798-8824, www.pherform.com.

ULTIMATE FRISBEE WHAT IS IT: Ultimate frisbee (or just “Ultimate” as the cool kids say) is team sport played with a flying disc. The objective is to score points by passing the disc to a player in the opposing end zone, similar to American football or the goal-line area in rugby. Players can’t run when they have hold of the frisbee so have to pass it to their teammates to get into a position to score. GET INVOLVED: While it’s a serious game when the whistle blows, off the pitch Ultimate is a relaxed and extremely social activity. There is no need to join a club; beginners and new BARRE 2 BARRE players just turn up every week and teams are formed. There Specialising in ballet-inspired workouts that improve your posture, strength are a number of playing locations around Hong Kong, including and flexibility, Barre 2 Barre is the only certified studio in Asia teaching Prince Edward, So Kon Po in Causeway Bay, Sun Yat-sen Memorial BarreAmped, an intensive full body workout influenced by dance, Pilates and Park in Sheung Wan, and Happy Valley.

orthopedic stretching. Other classes include barre bootcamp, barre+yoga, COST: It’s cheap. Each$280. session for non-members costs $20 for onecardio-boxing and pilates. Drop-in: and-a-half hours and $40 for three hours. 4/F, Cheung Hing Commercial Building, 37 Cochrane St., Central, 9688-3503, MORE INFO: www.hkupa.com. www.barre2barre.com.

339

Tea m S p o r t s

DODGEBALL WHAT IS IT: Dodgeball is a pretty big deal in Hong Kong. The premise is simple: teams of six work together to hit the opposition with a ball, thus eliminating them from the game. You have to dodge, duck, dip, dive and dodge balls being thrown at you, while trying to avoid being hit yourself at the same time. The aim is to remove all six players on the opposing team first and win as many sets as you can in a 45-minute period. GET INVOLVED: There are two womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s divisions and five mixed divisions that play all year round. Unlike many team sports, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t join a club: teams are created by friends, colleagues or acquaintances who then enter their team into the league. COST: Its costs $10,000 to enter a team of up to 12 players. Across the season, this averages out to about $900 per person for 10 games. MORE INFO: www.hkdodgeball.com.

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Tea m S p o r t s

LACROSSE WHAT IS IT: It might be relatively new on the scene, but lacrosse is quickly growing in popularity. Players use a stick with a small net on the end to pass, catch and cradle a rubber ball, and try and score in their opponent’s goal. While men’s lacrosse involves more body contact and therefore the use of protective equipment, the women’s game does not allow any rough body contact. Lacrosse is great for fitness and improving hand-eye coordination. GET INVOLVED: There are men’s, women’s and mixed leagues that cover all abilities so as long as you’ve got a competitive streak you are welcome to join. This season, the Hong Kong Lacrosse Association has expanded the ladies league to consist of 10 teams across two divisions. The short season runs from April to June; however preseason trials and training usually kicks off in January. COST: Fees depend on the club you decide to join. MORE INFO: www.hklax.org/en.

Planty to

SHARE Here are some of the hottest places in town to get healthy, veg-forward Chinese food.

Let's Get Social Promising a healthier (read: MSG-free, less greasy) alternative to mainstream dim sum restaurants, Social Place offers chic interiors, snappy service and a casual-modern vibe. While not a vegetarian restaurant, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot to choose from on its menu; in fact, its signature dish is the fluffy steamed truffle and shiitakefilled bao with a cracked brown surface that looks exactly like a mushroom. Elsewhere on the menu, look for pickled cucumber rolls, sesame romaine heart salad, scallion pancakes, noodles and seasonal veggies. 2/F, The L. Place, 139 Queenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road Central, Sheung Wan, 3568-9666, www.socialplace.hk.

Food

Vegan Eatin' Meatless munchers from all walks of life make the pilgrimage to the Mid-Levels to dine at Pure Veggie House, a vegan Chinese restaurant that serves organic cuisine, much of which is sourced straight from organic farms in China. One thing’s for sure - meat-free doesn’t mean flavour-free here, and you’ll find creative dishes such as sauteed mushrooms served in a mini pumpkin; mushroom pouches in black truffle sauce, and deep-fried enoki mushrooms in spiced salt. Craving spice? You’ll find a dedicated menu of Sichuan dishes loaded with numbing “ma laa” Sichuan peppercorns; or else huddle around a steaming pot of broth for vegetarian hotpot during winter months. For daytime diners, there’s a comprehensive dim sum menu, too. 3/F, Coda Plaza, 51 Garden Road, Mid-Levels, 2525-0552, topstandard.com.hk.

Tak Tak Boom Love Shanghainese food? So do we, and the vegetarian fare served up at famed vegetarian restaurant Kung Tak Lam is as tasty as it comes. Many Shanghainese dishes are naturally vegetarian - think fried beancurd sheet rolls, stewed wheat gluten or braised spicy tofu - and for the rest you’ll find Chinese-style mock meats, such as shredded “chicken” with mung bean noodles and sesame sauce, or the vegetarian “fish" with pine nuts and sweet and sour sauce. Don’t forget to order a few rounds of pan-fried porcini and spinach buns, veggie dumplings or pancakes, too. Bonus: the views of the harbour from the Tsim Sha Tsui outlet are crazy impressive. 7/F, 1 Peking Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, 2312-7800.

Yummy Yum Cha Hone your insta-skills and fill your belly at Yum Cha, a gem of a restaurant that makes its delicate dumplings look as good as they taste. Herbivores should flip straight to the dedicated vegetarian menu, which features tasty morsels such as curly kale and pomegranate, black truffle vegetarian dumplings, spicy wok-fried rice rolls, beetroot fried rice, mushroom lettuce wraps and whole poached pears for dessert. Don’t miss the bird-shaped buns filled with pineapple jam, presented in a traditional bamboo bird cage (a touch sure to wow visitors), and rest assured that everything here is made without MSG, and with zero artificial colourings. 2/F, Nan Fung Place, 173 Des Voeux Road Central, 3708-8081, yumchahk.com. Also has an outlet in Tsim Sha Tsui. 37

Food

Bao Down For innovative dim sum with a modern twist, Dim Sum Library in Pacific Place offers creative dumplings and nibbles in a sleek, art deco space. Its dedicated vegetarian menu offers a host of healthier bites, including their signature mushroom bao (pictured), wild mushroom beetroot dumplings, crispy aubergine tossed with spring onion, la mian noodles with porcini and tianjin cabbage, and braised e-fu noodles with termite mushrooms, to name just a few. Don’t miss the tea-inspired cocktail menu, which features drinks infused with ginger, yuzu and dried lime. Shop 124, Level 1, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, 3643-0088, dimsumlibrary.com.hk.

Park Life A favourite on the tourist trail, Lock Cha Teahouse is nestled within the Museum of Teaware in Hong Kong Park, and is a tranquil, elegantly decorated spot to learn more about the art of Chinese tea while nibbling on refined vegetarian dumplings, cold appetisers and soups. The restaurant also regularly hosts traditional Chinese music performances. G/F, K.S. Lo Gallery, Hong Kong Park, Admiralty, 2801-7177, www.lockcha.com.

All You Can Eat On the more casual side of things, Ahimsa Buﬀet has been crushing it with an extremely simple vegetarian buffet concept: for $68 at lunch and $108 at dinner, you can eat as much vegetarian fare as you like. You’ll predominantly find Buddhist-style Chinese dishes, including stir-fry veg, rolls, mock meats, soups and dumplings, as well as a few Western dishes such as mini pizzas and desserts thrown in for good measure. Its first North Point outlet has been so successful that it’s recently launched a second branch in Jordan. Shop B, G/F, Wah Hai Mansion, 10-16 Fort St., North Point, 2528-2368, facebook.com/ ahimsabuﬀet. 38

LIMITED EDITION

MOONCAKES I N COLLA BO RATION WITH

Food

HEALTHY RECIPE

WATERMELON SALAD WITH FRESH MINT AND OLIVES By Charmaine So, Charmaine Cooks See out the last of summer with this simple salad. Watermelon is packed with vitamins, amino acids and lycopene, making this a perfectly healthy snack or starter.

INGREDIENTS: • 1/2 red onion, finely sliced

• 1 small bunch of fresh basil

• juice and zest of two limes

• 10-12 pitted black olives

• 1/2 small baby seedless watermelon (or you can use a few slices from a big watermelon)

• 30g feta cheese • Extra virgin olive oil • Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 small bunch of fresh mint

DIRECTIONS: 1. Dice up the watermelon into cubes and take out the seeds, if any. Place in a big bowl. 2. Finely slice the red onion and cut the pitted black olives in half. Place them in the same bowl as the watermelon. Toss to mix together. 3. Throw the basil and mint leaves into the salad.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy

COOKING TIME: 15 minutes

4. Add in lime zest and juice. Season with salt and black pepper. Taste and see if you need to add more seasoning. 5. Spoon into serving platter or bowls, and top with crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and serve.

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Pamper

READY SET GLOW with Rachel Read

THESE ARE MY CONFESSIONS… Confession: however many lipsticks I own, I can always find room for one more… and when they look as awesome as Hourglass’ Confession Ultra Slim Intensity Refillable Lipsticks, can you blame me? This US brand has a reputation as a social media darling (their gorgeous marble blushes are practically designed to instantly invoke the hearteyes emoji) and this latest release looks just as stylish - ultra-luxe, sleek gold applicators that can be used interchangeably with an entire collection of Confession lipstick refills, which are available in 30 shades and deliver punchy, pigmented, longlasting colour. All Hourglass products are not tested on animals, with these lippies coming in as free from parabens, phthalates, talc, triclosan, gluten, mineral oil and silicone D5. I’ll take all 30, thanks! Lipstick costs $320, refills cost $210. Available at Hourglass counters in Lane Crawford Times Square, IFC and Canton Road or online at www.lanecrawford.com.hk.

A BALANCING ACT The arrival of September means that autumn is officially on the horizon (even if Hong Kong’s weather hasn’t quite got the message yet), and I’m using this change of seasons as the perfect excuse to indulge in a revitalising spa session. Enter the new “Centre Yourself” Chakra Balancing Treatment at the Intercontinental Hong Kong’s I-Spa, a 105-minute session of pampering perfection that includes a ginger sand body scrub, balancing body wrap and warming oil massage. To ensure both your body and soul get equal amounts of TLC, a series of special healing chakra crystals are placed along your spine during the massage to help further re-energise your spiritual wellbeing. Sign us up! “Centre Yourself” Chakra Balancing Treatment costs $1,850 for 105 minutes and is available until 30 November 2017. Intercontinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, 2721-1211, www.hongkong-ic.intercontinental.com. 42

PHENOMENAL Phenomé is yet another stellar skincare brand to add to the natural beauty hall of fame. This European range is committed to using a minimum of 98 percent pure, natural, certified organic ingredients in all of their products, and you can trust that parabens, phthalates, silicones, SLS and other synthetics are never used in their line-up of skin, hair, body and baby care. I also love the fact that their packaging is made of recycled materials (which can all be recycled in turn as well), and their transparent labelling system indicates exactly what’s what in their ingredient list. Phenomé skincare is divided into categories based on your complexion needs, with various types of cleanser, exfoliator, serum and moisturiser available; they recently launched their Hong Kong site, meaning you can get free delivery here on orders over $500 (it’s $50 otherwise) - I’ve got my eye on the sensitive skin collection already. Products range from $190-550. www.phenome.hk.

ASK THE EXPERT Céline Pellarin French Sophrologist

Q What is Sophrology? Sophrology is a discipline designed to train your mind to live a happier, more relaxed and meaningful life. You will learn to use easy and efficient tools to detect and better enjoy the pleasant sides of your life, to be present at the moment, to overcome difficulties and to empower yourself. Q Where does Sophrology come from? It was developed by Professor Caycedo, a doctor specializing in Psychiatry and Neurology, in the 1960s in Spain. It is a combination of Eastern ancient traditions of yoga and Buddhist meditation and Western modern approaches such as psychology, relaxation, and breathing techniques, blended into a unique structured discipline designed for modern living.

Q Why haven't I heard of Sophrology before? Sophrology is fairly new to the English speaking world. However it is very well established in continental Europe, especially France, Belgium, Switzerland and Spain. More and more health insurance companies in France and Switzerland now include cover of Sophrology sessions as part of their health insurance plan.

Rachel Read is a freelance writer, editor and cofounder of writing agency Editors’ Ink (www.editorsinkhk.com); she also has her own lifestyle blog, Through The Looking Glass (www.rachttlg.com) where she reviews beauty, food and whatever else she can think of. Follow her on Instagram too @rachttlg.

Q Can you tell me more about a typical session? First there's a deep dynamic relaxation, where your body feels relaxed yet your mind remains fully alert. Then, you work on specific exercises relating to your key objective, using techniques of mindfulness, relaxation, breathing, meditation, visualization and simple movements. Sessions are available in French and in English with face-to-face or on-line consultations and last between 45 minutes and one hour. Free 20-minute Discovery Sessions are available; call for more information. Celine can be contacted at The Round Clinic, One Island South, Wong Chuk Hang , 2648-2612, www.theroundclinic.com. Information presented by The Round Clinic

Travel

WILD IN WANAKA

Avid runner Kate Turbett sought to run her personal best time at New Zealand’s Wanaka Sun Half-Marathon, and instead found a country ripe for exploration.

rom a young age, a taste for adventure was instilled in me as my family and I explored the caves, forests, coastlines and mountains of Ireland and the North of Scotland. It had always been a dream of mine to visit New Zealand, a country on the other side of the world approximately 11,554 miles away, which I had alway called “Never-Never Land.” Described as the land of exploration and adventure, and billed as an outdoor enthusiast’s utopia, New Zealand - with a population of approximately four million - has an infinite variety of places to explore within a relatively small area. In New Zealand, no matter where you are, you are never far from the coast, you’re often close to the mountains, and there are always forests, streams and rivers to explore.

Travel

RUNNING WANAKA I started running ten years ago, and it has totally changed my life. I owe my lifestyle, my wellbeing and so much more to running. Like many here in Hong Kong, I am particularly fond of off-road running and always have an event on my calendar that I am training for. Last Easter I set myself a challenge to run three halfmarathons in three weeks: two in Hong Kong, with the final event being the Wanaka Sun Half-Marathon. My goal was to run a personal best time in New Zealand, and to simply enjoy the other two events: The UNICEF run at Disneyland, and the Panasonic Pacers charity run in Tai Mei Tuk. My decision to seek new terrain sprouted from a good friend of mine who also loves a challenge, and together we took the plunge and booked a ticket to compete in the trail running race at one of New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most hidden treasures: Lake Wanaka. Located on New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Southern island, the town of Wanaka is set on the Southern end of the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wanaka, the fourth-largest lake in New Zealand. Renowned in every season for its raw beauty, proximity to snow-capped mountains and abundance of trails for all ages, experience and fitness levels, Wanaka has it all. Given the ease of access to the town, it offers superb areas to train and plenty of events such as triathlons and adventure racing throughout the year. An especially popular run is the five-kilometre route up the iconic Mount Iron, which rises 250 metres above the surrounding countryside and offers an impressive 360-degree view of the town. The route itself is suitable for individuals and families of all ages, shapes and sizes, the challenge being to run three laps of the Mount Iron loop.

Travel

THE RACE My final race day arrived on Saturday April at 8am. My training partner and I participated in the challenge alongside 100 other worldwide competitors to complete the 21-kilometre route. The race along the upper Clutha river track remains vivid in my mind and is certainly one that I will not forget. A cool and cloudy morning cleared to reveal sharp, clean and an intensely sunny blue sky. As the race started and I began to put one foot in front of the other, I soon began to realise that this race was particularly special. Right from the beginning there was a buzz in the air and a bond between competitors, and the Kiwis especially were warm and welcoming. As the terrain began to curve around the river and up into the extremely challenging five kilometre mountain track in the Alpines, locals on the sidelines began to cheer and offer words of support - as well as jelly babies for energy! The route was dazzling. I could not help but slow my pace to capture glimpses of the natural beauty of the trail that hugged the surrounding river. As the race was approaching an end, I checked my sports watch to realise that unfortunately I had not actually beaten my PB; I had actually logged my best at the Panasonic Pacers run back in Hong Kong. It didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter: the spectacular run and the stunning scenery were more than enough to make the trip worthwhile.

â&#x20AC;&#x2039;THE DETAILS GETTING TO WANAKA Qantas flies from Hong Kong to Queenstown vi Sydney. It's a ninehour flight to Sydney with a two-hour layover, followed by another three hours to Queenstown. From Queenstown Airport, hire a car and drive to Wanaka (car hire will cost you about HK$343 per day. It's about 65 kilometres to Wanaka, which should take you about an hour and 10 minutes. WHERE TO STAY Kate stayed at the Criffel Peak View (www.criffelpeakview.co.nz) NEXT YEAR'S RACE The Wanaka Sun Half Marathon 2018 will take place on April 7. Find more information at activeqt.co.nz. 46

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Travel

TRAVEL WELL with Kate Springer

JEJU’S NEW SEASON Last month, the Four Seasons just announced its upcoming property in Jeju - a volcanic island off the coast of South Korea, which happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. About a two-hour drive from one side to the other, this tiny island has no shortage of outdoor activities - from hiking to diving, strawberry picking, caving and canyoning. It’s actually home to one of the world’s longest cave systems, as well as a gorgeously designed green tea museum. If you can’t wait for the Four Seasons resort to open later this year, there are a few options on the southside of the island that make for a convenient homebase. Set on a dramatic cliff, The Shilla is home to a pretty Japanese garden, a glamping village, easy access to a black sand beach, a petting zoo for the little ones, and an adults-only pool for couples traveling solo. Fair warning: Pack your own toothbrush - this hotel charges ad hoc for pretty much everything. The Shilla, 75 Jungmungwangwang-ro 72 beongil, Saekdal-dong, Seogwipo, Jeju-do, South Korea, +82 64-735-5114, www.shillahotels.com.

A LEG UP You’d think my body would be used to travel by now. I take anywhere from 12-20 flights a year. But on long-hauls, my calves and feet swell up at an alarming rate. I have tried a few things to cope with this already: compression socks, looser shoes, stretching, calf raises, extra water - and haven’t found a combination that works. I had a chance to try Zarie compression leggings on a recent long-haul and this is the only thing that’s worked for me. I walked off the plane feeling lighter - ready to go jogging even, if that’s humanly possible. Infused with caffeine, 48

aloe vera and Vitamin E, these leggings claim to sculpt your body while you sit and smooth your skin over time. I can’t speak for all of that, but I can say that these pants helped my circulation while I was sitting air-tight for 15 hours. Farewell, flankles (flight ankles)! From $450-$880. zarie.co. Psst... HK Express airline recently became the first airline in Hong Kong to ban ivory cargo. Hear, hear!

Travel

ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM Nearly 75 percent. That’s how the porportion of elephants being exploited in Asia, according to a recent report from the World Animal Protection report, which studied roughly 3,000 elephants between 2014 and 2016. Countries like Vietnam, Bangladesh and Laos have seen the hardest hit to the animals’ populations. Laos - once called the “Land of a Million Elephants” has just 800 left in the country. The threats include tourism (they’re often smuggled off to China or Thailand for circuses), poaching, deforestation and generally low reproduction rates caused by stressful jobs like logging. If you’re looking for a responsible sanctuary in Laos in the future, check out MandaLao elephant camp, near Luang Prabang, or the Elephant Conservation Centre. Both facilities put the elephants’ needs first, without any riding or entertainment - just a space to observe them in their natural habitat. www.mandalaotours.com, www.elephantconservationcenter.com.

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

Family

53 Hoi Ha

KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY Rather than nag your kids to get off the sofa and get active, why not make it a family activity? Kate Farr uncovers the city’s best familyfriendly workouts 53 Hoi Ha

ur children’s weight is, quite literally, a growing concern. Some 18.7 percent of Hong Kong’s primary students and 19.4 percent of secondary students - are currently considered overweight or obese, a statistic that a spokesman for the Department of Health described as “a looming crisis for public health.” And with overweight children significantly more likely to carry their excess weight into adulthood, it’s clear that tackling this issue early is the key to making lasting change. But where to start? Research conducted jointly in the UK by Cambridge and Southampton Universities concluded that there was a direct positive correlation between a mother’s physical activity levels and that of her children. The study found that for every minute of moderate-to-vigorous activity that a mother undertook, her child was more likely to engage in as much as 10 percent more of a similar activity. And with numerous other studies supporting these findings, there has been a noticeable movement towards wholefamily fitness activities. Happily for us in Hong Kong, there are already plenty of fitness providers on board with the concept of parent-and-child workouts. From tots to teens, there’s something to suit the entire #fitfam. Here are six of the best.

Verm City

Sai Kung Serenity Head to the hinterlands an immersive experience that’s ideal for one-to-one time with older kids. Located next to a marine reserve within the beautiful Sai Kung Country Park, 53 Hoi Ha offers day retreats from its base: a bright pink village home full of vibrant modern art. The retreat boasts a full programme of wellness activities, including family yoga, kayaking, nature walks and meditation. You’ll be back at Central Pier 9 in time for early nights all round. Prices from $1,500 per person. For more information and to book, visit 53hoiha.com

Dizzy New Heights Head to Quarry Bay for a challenging workout that will have the whole family climbing the walls. Verm City is the city’s biggest climbing

Family

Grin and Bear It

Warrior Academy

Suitable for mums, dads and teenage bear cubs too, Ursus Fitness is a friendly community gym offering martial arts, powerlifting, HIIT and Strongman sessions in Sai Ying Pun. The focus here is on personalised training: members are coached to reach their full potential, regardless of age or current ability, so if your family goals include flipping a 430kg tyre, then Ursus will get you there. Teen drop-in price $180, adult drop-in $250, with various packages available. Unit 2-4, 64-68 Pok Fu Lam Rd., Sai Ying Pun, 2803-2774, ursusfitness.com.

Wee Warriors

Verm City gym, with an augmented climbing wall, a clip-n-climb section that’s suitable for kids aged four and up, and plenty of advanced bouldering problems for experienced climbers. Offers hour-long taster sessions on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings, and personalised group tuition with a dedicated instructor. Fun climbing trial $100 for members and $250 for non-members. 4/F, Kodak House 1, 321 Java Rd., Quarry Bay, 2560-8128, vermcity.com.

The Sky’s The Limit Suitable for children aged six and up, Flex is amping up their family programme this autumn, with a new series of aerial yoga and aerial arts. Classes focus on gently developing children’s core, upper body strength and flexibility in a safe and fun environment. Although parents aren’t allowed in the room, Flex has scheduled adult Pilates Allegro classes in the next studio every Wednesday and Friday, so grown ups can get their stretch on side-by-side. Term fee $3,640 (14 sessions), first time drop-in: $280. Shops 308- 310, One Island South. 2 Heung Yip Rd., Wong Chuk Hang, 2813-2212, flexhk.com.

Got a tiny tot in tow? Warrior Academy has you covered, with Mums & Bubs classes taking place three times a week (dads are also welcome!). Baby Wearing classes take place every Tuesday and Saturday, while Thursday’s Baby Play session allow crawlers and toddlers to roam free on the mats while the grown-ups get a little more freedom of movement. Classes target core and pelvic floor (essential for new mums) plus arm and leg toning. First class free, drop-in price $250, 10-class package $1,780. 1/F, Hong Kong Plaza, 188 Connaught Road West, Shek Tong Tsui, 2838-3878, warrioracademyhk.com.

Reaching The Pinnacle Offering dedicated youth membership for aspiring athletes and junior gym bunnies alike, Pinnacle Performance’s specific training sessions aim to make fitness a habit from an early age. Youth membership includes four bespoke coach-led sessions per week, focusing on speed and agility, strength development, endurance and general health, and offering kids the opportunity to become comfortable with the gym in a nonintimidating environment. Youth membership starts at $1,295 per month; adult membership from $2,295. 7/F, Morrison Plaza, 9 Morrison Hill Rd., Wan Chai 2469-2000, pinnacleperformance.hk. 51

Family

FIT FAM with Kate Farr

Hello September! Everyone’s back and raring to go after the long summer break (seriously, why are school holidays so very long?), so let’s dive straight into Autumn with a look at what’s healthy and happening for Hong Kong families this month.

MATERNITY MATTERS Taking place at the JW Marriott on October 21, the third annual Hong Kong Maternity + Baby Event promises to be bigger and better than ever. Hosted by Healthy Matters (formerly AD MediLink), the event combines informative talks by medical and parenting experts, great shopping and service discounts to help you line your nest, plus pampering stations and family lounges for new parents to relax and connect with others. With tickets inclusive of a free copy of The Hong Kong Maternity Guide, plus premium goodie bags for the first 200 registrants, the early stork catches the worm, so register now at eventbrite.hk. Admission is free of charge but requires pre-registration at healthymatters.com

SHARING IS CARING Culling the clutter benefits both you and your community. That’s the message behind brand new Hong Kong app Enrich Others, whose simple interface enables users to share details of unwanted items for collection, and search for their own “new” objects in return. With a laudable aim to both reduce carbon emissions within communities by encouraging reusing and recycling, as well as enabling individuals on a lower income to access items for free, the app is particularly helpful for families, who tend to have a higher turnover of lightly used items than most people. Time to tame that toy cupboard once and for all.

THAT GUT FEELING With over 10 billion pro- and prebiotics per gram serving, Body Awakening’s Baby Probiotic+ powder offers powerful nutritional support for little tummies, restoring healthy gut flora and helping to ease common childhood complaints such as colic, constipation and eczema. It comes in an easy-to-use powder format that can be added to water, juice or soft foods like yoghurt, and tastes pleasant too, so it’s less likely to end up on the floor than most conventional attempts to sneak in healthy extras at mealtimes. Costs US$36 (HK$281.50) Available from body-awakening.net

Download for free at enrichothers.com. Kate Farr is the co-founder of writing and editing agency Editors’ Ink (editorsinkhk.com). She also blogs about Hong Kong family life at Accidental Tai-Tai (accidentaltaitai.com). Send your family health news to kate@editorsinkhk.com

The Guide WELLNESS CLINICS Alive Wellness

A fairly new complementary therapy centre in Central, Alive Wellness offers a huge range of therapies, including acupuncture, craniosacral therapy, kirtan, lymphatic drainage, physiotherapy and mediation. Room 602, Yu Yuet Lai Building, 43-55 Wyndham St., Central, 2541-8600, alivewellness.hk.

Balance Health

Teatments are divided into three streams: natural medicine, physical therapies and mind-body connection. With more than 30 types of treatment available, Balance Health’s specialties include chronic pain, stress, allergies, women’s health and digestive issues, to name a few. 27/F, Universal Trade, Centre, 3-5 Arbuthnot Rd., Central, 2530-3315, www.balancehealth.com.hk.

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, www.byrne-hickman.com. Also has clinics in TST, Repulse Bay and Sha Tin.

Integrative Medicine Institute

One of Hong Kong’s longest-standing integrative wellness practices, IMI offers a huge range of complementary

health services, though it also has a conventional medical practice. For aches and pains, it has osteopathy, chiropractic, TCM and acupuncture. More left-of-field treatments include reiki, colourpuncture, iridology and crystal healing, among others. 13/F and 17/F Kailey Tower, 16 Stanley St., Central, 2523-7121, imi.com.hk.

The Round Clinic

This friendly clinic on the Southside offers a range of complementary healing modalities, from osteopathy and physiotherapy to naturopathy, kinesiology and acupuncture. It also sees a lot of pre-and post-natal clients, offering midwife services and Pilates. 1227-28, 12/F, One Island South, 2 Heung Yip Rd., Wong Chuk Hang, 2648-2612, theroundclinic.com

Soholistic Wellness Centre

Formerly the New Age Shop, Soholistic offers various alternative therapies, including kinesiology, health coaching and hypnotherapy. If you’re into more fringe therapies, it also offers tarot reading, past life regression and chakra therapy. 1/F, 7 Old Bailey St., Central, 2810-8694, www.soholistic.asia.

Sports and Spinal

A physiotherapy clinic with two outlets in Central, Sports and Spinal specialises in back pain and spinal complaints, though it offers treatments for all kinds of physiological issues, from massage to post-op rehabilitation. For children, its sister theraputic centre, SPOT (spot.com.hk) offer assessment and

early intervention for kids facing developmental or physical challenges. 15/F, Winway Building, 50 Wellington St., Central, 2530-0073, sportsandspinal.hk.

Stanley Wellness Centre

This friendly integrated wellness clinic in Stanley Village offers a host of treatments, including osteopathy, naturopathy, homeopathy, sports massage, mindfulness and counselling, to name just a few. G/F 120 Stanley Main St.,Stanley Market, 2372-9700, stanleywellnesscentre.com.

UP! Health

This friendly, newish clinic offers chiropractic and myofascial release in a fun, bright and welcoming space that’s a mile away from a stuffy doctor’s office. Room 1102, Wellington Place 2-8 Wellington St., Central, 2110-1674, www.uphealth.com.hk.

ONLINE HEALTH FOOD STORES Life Project

This massive online store divides into several categories, including health supplements, groceries, personal care products, household cleaners and babies and kids. On the groceries side, it has an entire section dedicated to specialist diets, whether you’re vegan, paleo, dairy- or gluten-free, or raw. Lifeproject.hk.

Lotus Mart

Specialising in natural soaps, personal care product and household cleaners, Lotus Mart is a great place to pick up toiletries and bigger items such as laundry detergent and eco-friendly paints. Also has a kids’ section with eco-friendly disposable nappies and wipes from Seventh Generation. Check out the “Deals” section, which has monthly specials on selected products.

Profood

This gourmet online store is an Aladdin’s cave of small-batch artisanal products. There’s a large selection of healthy goods, including energy bars, organic dressings, dips and sauces (some of which are vegan or vegetarian) and other treats. Highlights include the Thai Mekhala brand of sauces, which are vegan and made in Chiang Mai. www.profood.hk.

www.lotusmart.com.

One Vegan Shop

For an impressive range of veganfriendly food and lifestyle products, any budding herbivore needs to check out One Vegan Shop. There’s a huge selection of milk alternatives, baking supplies, dairy-free cheese, meat substitutes, snacks and more - a hugely helpful resource for vegans, food allergy sufferers and health fanatics alike. Delivery is free for orders of $300 or more, but there are a few far-flung spots they won’t go to; check the website for details. www.oneveganshop.com.

Nutri Alley

A new online store catering specifically to people with allergies, Nutri Alley carefully sources each of its products – from snacks, condiments and drinks to day-to-day groceries – and provides a handy key so shoppers know at a glance when an item is suitable for them. The goods are categorized into nut-, dairy-, egg- and caffeine-free, and it’s also noted if they’re kosher or vegan. Nutrialley.com.

CROSSFIT Coastal Fitness

Founded by former Hong Kong rugby star Ed Haynes, Coastal Fitness takes a community-driven approach to health and fitness. The gym’s Energy System Training program aims to equip you with long-term fitness development through mobility drills, running, squatting, kettlebells, Olympic weightlifting and a battery of tests to ensure continued progress. 3/F, Block C, Sea View Estate, 8 Watson Rd., North Point, 2512-2262, www.coastalfitnesshk.com.

CrossFit 852

One of the largest CrossFit gyms in Hong Kong, this two-storey complex is all about community and high-octane workouts. In addition to CrossFit classes, the skilled coaches offer a diverse range of specialty disciplines, such as power lifting, mobility, gymnastics and more. 1/F, Li Dong Building, 9 Li Yuen Street East, Central, 2205-0338, Crossfit852.com.

CrossFit Typhoon

An authentic garage-like box, CrossFit Typhoon is tucked away up in Sai Ying Pun. The narrow but energetic gym leads a butt-kicking WOD that’s full of squats, pull-ups, jumping, pushing, throwing and sprinting. 38-40 Third St., Sai Ying Pun, 2858-8864, www.crossfittyphoon.com.

Fitness Academy

A group of CrossFit friends turned business partners are behind this box in Quarry Bay. Fitness Academy champions everyday athletes who want to perform better in various sports, improve their metabolic conditioning, or just get in shape. Shop D, 901-907 King’s Rd., Quarry Bay, 3708-8190, fitnessacademyhk.com.

LRCF Fitness Box

Situated between Mong Kok and Olympic, LRCF is currently Kowloon side’s only box. Its primary focus is on offering one-on-one conditioning programs that address your needs and help to improve your CrossFit technique. 25 Tong Mi Rd., Mong Kok, 2658-6218, www.lrcffitnessbox.club.

Reebok CrossFit Asphodel

Back in 2010, Reebok Crossfit Asphodel was the very first CrossFit box to open up in Hong Kong. What started as a relatively bare-bones club has evolved into a powerful community of experienced strength training and functional movement specialists. GF, Fook Hing Factory Building, 33 Lee Chung St., Chai Wan, 3568-7719, www.crossfitasphodel.com.

Blue Door is a boutique yoga studio conveniently located in Wanchai in the heart of Hong-Kong. Blue Door embraces the tradition of yoga in a tranquil urban setting... All students of yoga can find a class from Prenatal yoga, kids yoga (from baby to teen) Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin to Power yoga, in small groups (up to 12 students). This charming studio has everything you need including Jade eco mats and shower facilities. 250hkd single class | package of 12 classes 2700 hkd | 300 hkd unlimited weekday (for new clients only) Booking on MINDBODY online | bluedoorstudiohk.com.

BIO BEAUTY SPA State-of-the-art Laser, HIFU, Trilipo Treatments for skin tightening & refining, Facials & Massages 201 Lyndhurst Building, 29 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central www.biobeautyspa.com T: 2489 0222

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CAN’T LIV WITHOUT

DEE CHEUNG Hip-hop-loving yoga instructor Dee Cheung is the founder of floatation spa Float On. She tells us about her favourite things.

Photo: LuckyFishPhotographer (ohwhataluckyfish.com)

 Where I go for a healthy lunch I love the farm to table options at Fresca.

 My favourite workout song No Diggity by Blackstreet, or the Chet Faker remix. One has a good beat for running or doing weights, and the other I love for practicing yoga. The lyrics "I like the way you work it" are pretty good motivators too!

 Where I work out I love connecting to my body with different forms of movement at SharedSpace.

 My beauty essential Aromatherapy Associates Rose Misting Spray, and their fine line face oil.

 Next thing I'm buying With flat, wide size 40 feet I am pledging for a pair of Antonia Saint NY heels on Kickstarter...This yoga mama wants the heels that feel like sneakers!

 My favourite workout gear

 What I'm watching on TV Game of Thrones on Monday nights There’s no TV in our house so when we want to watch something it's intentional.

 Last treat I bought for myself

Lululemon Wunder Under pants.

 Last plane trip I took Ishigaki, Okinawa. I highly recommend this 1.5 hour flight for those who want to be in nature, eat locally grown food, dive and be active.

A spa day at the Four Seasons Spa.

 I always have in my gym bag Bikini Bottoms and a rash guard - because sometimes my workout may be on a paddle board.