Liv Magazine April 2021 by Liv Media Limited

! EE FR

WIN: a bamboo flatware set and meditation pillows on page 13

E E K M TA H O E

THE HEAT IS ON What is Hong Kong doing to combat climate change, and is it enough?

FITN E SS NU T RIT ION WELLBEING HO ME ECO S PA

I’M

APRIL 2021 | l i v - m a g a z i n e . co m LIV MAGAZINE

WOMEN

of WELLNESS 2O21

M E E T 1 0 0 O F H O N G K O N G ’ S B R I G H T E S T S TA R S ON THE WELLNESS SCENE

CO M I N G I N M AY

APRIL 05 Editor’s Letter

LIV | MORE

LIV | NEWS

26 Recipe

06 Wishlist

28 Pamper

Lovely things we want right now

08 Hot Right Now

New happenings on the wellness scene

10 Fresh Cuts

Plant-based proteins in your nearest supermarket

Tahini cauliflower couscous

The best ultra-luxurious hair washes in town

30 Home

Local ceramic brands to support

32 Family

Easter craft ideas for all ages 06

LIV | STORIES 14 Hot Topic

A closer look at climate action in Hong Kong

20 Trip Advisor

Exploring hallucinogenic plant medicine retreats 10 20

Sponsored Feature

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The We-Vibe Touch X in Green Velvet

EDITOR’S LETTER

GREENING OUT

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS

here’s a lot to be thankful for this month. From lovely mild spring weather to a five-day long weekend to free vaccinations for all, April is shaping up to be a good one - and I’m grateful for it. It’s also the month where we honour the planet that houses and feeds us. Earth Day takes place every year on April 22, and while one day is absolutely not enough to give Gaia her full dues, it certainly doesn’t hurt to have an annual event that brings the issue of environmental stewardship to the forefront of everyone’s busy lives. As bad as we may think a global pandemic is, climate change is by far the most pressing issue that we’ll encounter in our lifetimes. Sadly, there’s no easy solution to the problem; there’s no vaccine for reversing rising sea levels, or warming global temperatures. But just because it’s not easy doesn’t mean it’s impossible; in fact, there’s plenty that can and should be done by governments, communities and individuals. To get a better understanding of the issue at hand, we explored climate action in Hong Kong, and whether enough is being done to tackle the problem effectively. Read more on p.14. The pandemic has caused many people to re-evaluate their lifestyles, with plenty of soul-searching and self-reflection after a year spent indoors. A new kind of wellness retreat offers a solution: spiritual and emotional breakthroughs via the use of psychoactive plants. We talked to the founder of an entheogenic plant medicine retreat about how hallucinogens can help people to heal themselves on p.20. We have also done an explainer on all the plant-based proteins you can find in Hong Kong supermarkets these days (p.10), and rounded up some of the best local ceramic shops that we love to support (p.30). This month, challenge yourself to eat clean, act green, and get your damn vaccine!

Zoe Belhomme talks to a local art teacher for her Easter crafting tips on p.32.

Kate Springer embraces her clayful side with top local ceramic brands on p.30.

Jo Robinson rounds up all the hottest wellness trends, like a racy new condom brand, on p.8.

In our Earth Month cover story, Aarohi Narain investigates climate action in Hong Kong on p.14.

CARLA THOMAS 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 PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER ANSHU RIJHWANI DIGITAL & PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER TERRY HU EDITOR CARLA THOMAS SOCIAL MEDIA STACEY MARCELO ADMINISTRATOR JASMIN BLUNCK GRAPHIC DESIGN TAMMY TAN CONTRIBUTORS AAROHI NARAIN, KATE SPRINGER, ZOE BELHOMME PRINTED BY GEAR PRINTING LIMITED, ROOM B, 3/F, DERRICK INDUSTRIAL BUILDING, 49-51 WONG CHUK HANG ROAD, ABERDEEN ‘‘Liv Magazine’’ Copyright 2021 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

TEAL WITH IT

SO HANDY

If you’re gonna wash your hands 50 times a day, you might as well make it enjoyable. Try K-skincare brand Pibu Pibu’s hand wash. We love the woody mint scent for dry hands, featuring sandalwood, tea tree, lemon and peppermint. $219 from pibupibu.com.hk

Bored with black and white? Spruce up your sound system with these turquoise-coloured wireless headphones from Sudio, and set your pods apart from the rest of the pack. $599 from LOG-ON, Fortress or CD Warehouse

DEEP CLEAN

BEE AWESOME

We are on a massive brooch kick right now, and this cute little bee is just the thing to add a little sting - sorry, zing - to your outfit. $5,000 from Jemocracy 6

Take your on-the-go sanitising to the next level with this starter kit from Raze. Known for their photocatalyst surface cleanser, they’ve taken their technology and applied it to a foaming hand sanitiser, antibacterial spray and surface wipes. Perfect for stashing in your bag for sanitising when you’re out and about. $88 from nanoraze.com

Retail Therapy

SNIFF TEST

WRAP PARTY

Spring into the season with this peachy peony floral silk scarf, perfect for tying your hair up while riding around in your convertible with the top down. Or your next taxi ride, whatever. $2,980 from Shanghai Tang

[INSERT EGG PUN HERE] Shimmery and sweet, we’re pretty eggs-ited (sorry) to try these vegan chocolate Easter eggs, which are filled with freeze-dried raspberries and dairy-free white chocolate. $268 from The Cakery

Turn your home into a haven of tranquility with these de-stress blends from home fragrance brand, NEOM. We love the ylang ylang, vetivert and tonka bean, but for a pick-me-up, try the bergamot and black pepper blend $350 from 10/10 counters citywide

IN THE DOC

We are already huge Doc Martens fans, but these limited-edition boots, a collaboration with celebrated designer Rick Owens, just shot to the top of our list. $2,800 from Joyce 7

Cool Stuff

HOT RIGHT NOW With Jo Robinson

WOOFING DOWN

If you have a dog, you know what a hassle sorting out their food can be. Bags of kibble are heavy and cumbersome, and if you run out at an inopportune time, your pooch has to settle for whatever your neighbourhood shop just happens to be selling. Local startup Buddy Bites strives to solve that problem with a subscription dog food service, giving you the flexibility to order as much food as you need, at the intervals you need, delivered right to your door. The chow itself was designed by local veterinarians to meet better nutritional standards than bigger brands, and for every 2kg of dry kibble purchased, 1kg gets donated to a local dog shelter. The service delivers everywhere in Hong Kong (including outlying islands!) and they throw in some super cute extra touches, like a personalised welcome kit when you join as a customer. A great way to shop local, give back, and earn some extra brownie points from your four-legged friends at home! buddybites.do

LADIES ROOM

Already a popular physiotherapy clinic on Hong Kong’s athletic scene, Joint Dynamics just expanded their services with a new adjacent clinic focusing entirely on women’s health. The new offshoot caters to female-specific needs like menstrual issues, sexual pain, urinary leaking, pre or post-natal services and menopause, through a range of services including physiotherapy, osteopathy, personal training and rehabilitation. Designed to be a space where women of all ages can talk openly about their bodies, it’s nice to see a facility putting the complex - often misunderstood or misdiagnosed - needs of women front and centre. 6/F, Asia Standard Tower, 59-65 Queen’s Road Central, 2762-0528, jointdynamics.com.hk

Cool Stuff

GOING UP JOHNNY BE GOOD

SEX! Now that we have your attention, let’s talk about Big Richard, a new homegrown condom brand in Hong Kong. After being shocked by the high price of condoms in the city, the founders set off on a mission to make a high-quality condom that everyone could afford. These rubbers don’t use nasty chemicals like parabens and glycerin found in other big brands, which can often be the culprit when it comes to vaginal irritation. They’re also made with sustainably sourced rubber, and Big Richard offers a monthly subscription service to guarantee that you’re never caught short in a good month. These ultra-thin contraceptives are pretty reasonably priced, and we love their mission to make safe sex more fun and accessible for the climaxes...er, masses. $128 for 16, big-richard.com

Vaccine Selfies Move over “I voted” - the vaccine selfie is the social media phenomenon du jour. Jab that like button now!

Earth Day Don’t forget - April 22 is Earth Day! Read more about what you can do to make an impact on p.14.

Virtual Award Shows What do you think - is a socially distant Oscars even worth doing, or should we just all watch Netflix instead?

Greenwashing

KEEP THIS BRIEF

Feeling a bit cheeky? One of our fave face mask brands, Aveita, just launched their Beyond Beautiful underwear line, and it looks and feels like a dream! Made with a cotton-blend lining for optimal softness, and designed seamfree to avoid any VPLs, these undies are great under yoga pants when you’re running around in activewear all day. If you’re after a set, the collection also includes matching wireless bras with soft cups, which sit snugly against the skin without any discomfort or lumpiness. Briefs come in thong or bikini-style, and bras run XS-L. Briefs cost $95-$110, bra $395.

It’s trendy to be eco-friendly right now - but make sure the brands you’re supporting are walking the talk when it comes to green practices.

aveita.com A lover of all things wellness, Jo is an NASM-certified personal trainer and Liv’s Director of Partnerships. She loves nothing more than discovering the latest wellness news in Hong Kong. Got a tip? Email jo@liv.media

GOING DOWN 9

Dining

MOCK MEAT MARKET

Beyond, Impossible, OmniPork... so many mock meats and so little time! It’s undeniable that plant-based proteins are having a moment right now, but what differentiates them from one another? Whether you’re an omnivore experimenting with less meat in your diet, or a seasoned vegetarian or vegan who’s trying to expand your repertoire, here are the best plant-based proteins widely available in Hong Kong supermarkets. By Aarohi Narain

OMNIPORK Pork is the most consumed meat in Asia today. In order to promote more plant-based diets in the region, Hongkonger and eco-activist David Yeung launched OmniPork, a vegetarian, vegan and halal pork substitute. Made with pea protein, non-GMO soy, shiitake mushrooms and rice, it’s virtually indistinguishable from ground pork, while offering 327 percent more calcium and 127 percent more iron than the real deal. The brand has now expanded to offer other plant-based products, including pork strips, buns, dumplings, ready meals and - one of our personal faves luncheon meat, which gets its characteristic pink appearance using beetroot juice.

QUORN Quorn may not date back to the Tang dynasty like traditional Chinese mock meats (we’re looking at you, tofu and seitan), but it’s probably the most established of contemporary meat alternatives. Founded in 1985, it’s well-known for its mycoprotein - aka fungal - meatless products, which include mince, sausages, chicken, lamb and more! While some of Quorn’s products use egg as a binding agent, they do offer a separate vegan line which uses potato protein instead.

UNLIMEAT Hailing from South Korea, this mock meat is all about the beef! Inspired by Korean barbecue, Unlimeat focuses on producing thinly cut filets of plant-based beef that can be thrown on the grill for optimal sizzling action. Upcycling grains, oats and nuts that would otherwise be discarded because of cosmetic imperfections, this brand is also generating solutions to the food industry’s rampant waste issue. You can find Unlimeat products at Green Common, as well as on the menu at their in-house cafe, Kind Kitchen.

Dining

BEYOND MEAT The world’s first publicly traded meat alternative company made headlines with an eye-watering IPO in 2019, proving that plantbased proteins had some serious market value. The brand became famous for its lab-grown faux beef patty, which uses mung bean and rice protein. After years of trial and error, the Beyond Burger elevates the concept of veggie burgers from a grainy, brittle puck to a tender, moist, and convincingly meat-like alternative that’s crueltyfree. Beyond has expanded its range in recent years to include meatballs, meat crumbles and sausage links.

HEURA Created by a Barcelona-based vegan startup, Heura specialises in meat-free chicken products. Made with non-GMO soybeans, their plant-based poultry collection is totally vegan and protein-rich, delivering an impressive 19.7 grams of protein per 100 grams, plus added fibre, iron, zinc and vitamin B12. The brand focuses mainly on flavoured “chunks” and strips which can be added into everything from stir-frys to salads, pastas, pizzas, tacos, wraps wherever chicken is used!

BATATA GREENS Another Hong Kong brand catering to the Asian market’s tastes, Batata Greens remakes regional Chinese favourites in vegetarian form. Think plant-based squid balls, fish cake and calamari, as well as Chinese-style buns, pancakes, dumplings and char siu bao. You can find at one of their three different store locations, or at several retail points across the city, including Marketplace by Jason’s, City Super or ThreeSixty.

IMPOSSIBLE Certified gluten-free, kosher, halal AND backed by Hong Kong’s richest, Li Ka-Shing? Impossible Foods has a lot going for it, and then some! Previously only available in restaurants from wholesale suppliers, this soy-based protein product was able to drop its retail price by 27 percent last year, following an investment by Li Ka Shing’s venture capital firm, and is now found in ParknShop stores across the city. Impossible is perhaps best known for its characteristic “bleeding” when cooked, which is caused by a legume hemoglobin found in the root of the soy plant.

FRESH CUTS Dining news that’s good for you

VEGAN CHEESE SHOP OPENS AT K11 MUSEA Hong Kong just got its first vegan cheese shop! Curated by famed plant-based, raw chef Tina Barrat, Le Fromage by Ma sells homemade dairy-free cheese varieties like “Shamembert”, a creamy truffle-flavoured number, and other vegan delicacies such as “Chiaviar” or “Faux-Gras”, plus keto bread, chutneys, organic olive oils, and gluten-free crackers. Perfect for your next plant-based picnic! Unit 21, B201, K11 MUSEA, Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, lefromage.com.hk

TRY THIS DIETICIANDESIGNED CAFE IN CENTRAL Founded by registered dietician Tiffany Shek, Grain Of Salt stands out for a well-balanced menu that’s certifiably nutritious. From avocado toast to veggie soup dumplings, yummy smoothies and lattes, we’re currently obsessed. Bonus: Collect 12 stamps on their loyalty card, and earn a free 15-minute nutrition consultation with Tiffany herself. 47 Gough St., Central, 2968-1083, grainofsalt.co 11

Dining

CHEAT DAY

Because life’s too short to always order the salad

CATCH OF THE DAY Seafood lovers and pastafarians alike will be keen to try out the new surf and turf menu at Velo. This southern Italian eatery in K11 MUSEA just rolled out a decadent lineup of new seafood and beef specials, and we’re pleased to report that everything we tried was così gustoso (said with Italian hands for emphasis). House specialty starter Carpaccio di Manzo is a luxurious dish of paper-thin slices of wagyu and delicate shavings of truffle piled high on a bed of peppery rocket, while the Astice al Cartoccio (butterflied Boston lobster) is a butter-soaked revelation, served with your choice of side. But it’s the Spaghetti ai Ricci di Mare, a heavenly pasta dish topped with fresh uni and whole pieces of sea urchin that really bowls us over. Cooked to al dente perfection and coated in a garlicky uni sauce that packs an umami punch, this gave us all the mouthfeels. 103, F/1, K11 MUSEA, 18 Salisbury Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, 2117-0983

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

Free stuff!

WIN: a TaKe 2 Bamboo Cutlery Bundle from TaKe Lifestyle Summer is around the corner, which means it’s time to eat outside! Step up your flat lay with this gorgeous, zen-inspired bamboo flatware set that’s light, durable and perfect for your next picnic or barbecue. Courtesy of TaKe Lifestyle, we have a 16-piece bamboo cutlery set - including cups, bowls, and large and small plates - up for grabs, valued at $1,184.

WIN: a meditation cushion from Arrived Mindful Long meditations are divine for the mind and soul, but they can leave your body with pins and needles from sitting crosslegged for too long. A good meditation cushion makes a huge difference; by raising your hips above the ground, you get more stability and comfort, leaving you free to clear your mind and zen out. This Zafu meditation cushion from Arrived Mindful is ethically handmade and filled with buckwheat hull which can be removed if you need a height adjustment. Comes in a range of earthy tones (Carbon, Stone or Neutral), this plush prop is valued at $390.

Enter at liv-magazine.com/giveaways before Apr 28 to win!

Cover Story

T H E H E AT I S O N :

EMISSIONS IMPOSSIBLE? How does Hong Kong stack up when it comes to its climate action policies? Speaking with local government, action groups and eco-activists, Aarohi Narain investigates. 14

Cover Story

ours after being sworn in as the new President of the United States, Joe Biden issued an executive order to rejoin the Paris Agreement. The move to return to the international treaty on climate action was significant not just for Americans, but for the global climate action movement, too. Now, more than ever before, governments around the world are taking steps to act on climate change, which leads us to wonder: what is being done in Hong Kong, and is it enough?

HOW DOES CLIMATE CHANGE AFFECT HONG KONG? Hong Kong is already feeling the effects of climate change. The Hong Kong Observatory reported that 2019 was the warmest year on record, estimating an increase in temperature of 1.2°C in the last decade, based on the previous benchmark from 1981 to 2010. The main culprit in Hong Kong is electricity generation from coal - it accounts for nearly 70 percent of the city’s total carbon emissions. The government has stated its intent to work with the two main electricity companies - China Light & Power and Hong Kong Electric - to phase out coalfired power plants, however coal is still the main source of fuel.

WHAT ACTION IS THE GOVERNMENT TAKING? As a special administrative region of China, Hong Kong is included in the Paris Agreement, which was ratified by the Mainland in 2016. The city’s first and only strategic plan so far for combating climate change came in 2017 with the release of the Climate Action Plan 2030+. In it, Hong Kong announced plans to reduce its carbon emissions by anywhere from 26 to 36 percent. “With the implementation of various decarbonisation measures, we are on track to achieve our 2030 carbon reduction target,” says an Environmental Protection Department (EPD) spokesperson. “Hong Kong’s carbon emissions reached its peak in 2014, and the carbon intensity in 2018 was about 36 percent lower than that of the baseline year in 2005.” Last year, Chief Executive Carrie Lam also said that Hong Kong aimed to achieve carbon neutrality by the year 2050. However, there has been no comprehensive strategic plan released yet that outlines how the city will achieve such an ambitious goal. The EPD said that they would update the Climate Action Plan by the middle of the year in order to announce what measures would be taken to further reduce emissions, but acknowledged the challenge of reaching carbon neutrality. “Carbon neutrality is an ambitious target for Hong Kong; it’s an extremely dense and vertical city, with business, financial, trading and logistics activities taking place round the clock. We need an energy supply that is safe, highly reliable and affordable.” 15

Cover Story

WILL IT BE ENOUGH? It remains to be seen how Hong Kong’s approach will work, and whether it will be enough to address the climate change that the city is already starting to experience. Local climate action groups have already expressed concern that the current steps being taken are not stringent enough. Last month, local environmental nonprofit CarbonCare InnoLab graded Hong Kong a “C” grade for 2020 in the Paris Watch Hong Kong Climate Report Card. The report, which examines Hong Kong’s progress towards the goals outlined in the Paris Agreement, says that serious steps must be taken if the city hopes to curb rising temperatures and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Hong Kong-based public policy think tank Civic Exchange launched HK 2050 is Now, a collaborative platform aimed at galvanising policy action on the issue of carbon neutrality. Lawrence Liu, a programme manager at the organisation, says that insufficient coordination between different sectors was a major factor deterring progress. Liu says that almost 90 percent

Carbon neutrality is an ambitious target for Hong Kong; it's an extremely dense and vertical city.

of greenhouse gas emissions in Hong Kong can be slashed by focusing on three main sectors: electricity generation, power in buildings, and vehicles. Moving away from dirty energy sources like coal can save as much as 27 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions, while setting stricter standards and incentivising retrofits could potentially remove 10.6 million tonnes of carbon dioxide generated by buildings. However, such steps necessitate a coordinated effort by all stakeholders. “The Hong Kong government needs to be firm in requiring each bureau or department to establish specific decarbonisation targets for the sectors they oversee, while closely monitoring and regularly reviewing progress,” says Liu. “If the government introduced KPIs for individual departments, it would change the game.” “Hong Kong is unique in that we have a thriving commercial sector,” he says. “But our government is not as active as it could be in leading it to make a change.” 16

Cover Story

Tanja Wessels

WHAT CAN I DO?

Almost

90% of greenhouse

gas emissions in Hong Kong can be slashed in three main sectors.

Comprehensive policy is the best and most effective way to tackle climate change, but there are several ways for individuals to act and help to reduce their carbon footprint. The first and easiest step is taking an interest in how one’s daily choices can affect climate change. “From my experience, climate justice is still not a popular concept in Hong Kong,” says Benita Chick, who runs Encompass HK, a social enterprise focusing on instilling sustainable practices in large corporations. “Most people recognise that climate change is a problem,” says Chick, but they don’t always prioritise it as a goal in their everyday actions. She says that just by choosing to buy sustainable coffee or wine, it’s possible to bridge our daily lifestyles with the sometimes nebulous concept of climate action. “We should be thinking about waste more consciously, and focusing on local production, purchasing local, and promoting urban farming,” she says. Hong Kong-based eco-activist Tanja Wessels says that for her, climate action required her to stop 17

Cover Story

From eco-anxiety to eco-action:

HERE’S WHAT ELSE YOU CAN DO WATCH YOUR WASTE. Separating, recycling and upcycling your waste is one key way to contribute to the fight against climate change.

David Yeung

her consumption entirely, after she learned of the disastrous environmental costs of fast fashion. “I started to create photography projects around sustainable fashion, and taking on ‘personal challenges’ such as vowing to not buy new clothes for one year; I’m now heading into my fourth year of no new clothes!” says Wessels, adding that finding a community was essential for her. “Joining groups of like-minded people has also helped me to grow; knowing that there were others who felt the same way was empowering.” David Yeung, the creator of Green Monday and plant-based pork substitute Omnipork, says that he believes innovation and adapting greener ways to live will be paramount to encouraging climate action on an individual level. “You still need to meet people where they are in terms of culture and habits. In Hong Kong, for example, cha chaan teng and yum cha are major parts of our culture,” says Yeung. “You can’t suddenly say for the sake of the planet, everyone now can only eat salad and tofu; human nature simply doesn’t work this way.” Whatever your approach is, something is better than nothing. Even just choosing to inform yourself for example, reading an article about climate action - is a form of resistance against climate change. The more people who choose to make the planet a priority, the better the odds for a brighter future. As Helen Keller put it, “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” 18

BUY LOCAL! Hong Kong imports almost all of its food from other parts of the world, which adds up to big carbon emissions. Direct your dollars to local farmers and food producers instead. EXPERIMENT WITH PLANT-BASED DIETS. Most of our meat in Hong Kong comes from overseas, and it takes a toll on the planet to raise livestock. CATCH FEELINGS, NOT FLIGHTS. Frequent flying is a significant source of carbon emissions. Instead of taking lots of short trips, plan longer and less frequent journeys. ADVOCATE FOR DECISIVE ACTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE. Join collectives and concern groups in your community; as the saying goes, act local while thinking global. STAY OPTIMISTIC AND PACE YOURSELF - OR RISK BURNING OUT. “This is a marathon, not a race,” says Wessels. “We are in it for the long haul.”

Thank You!

We were simply blown away by the response to our first-ever Liv Well Challenge. We had literally hundreds of entries - including some from quarantining participants in Penny's Bay - and it was so inspiring to see people rise to the occasion and share thoughtful, funny and beautiful posts related to each day's wellbeing pillar. A special thank you to all our partners for making this challenge possible!

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Plant Medicine

Down the Rabbit Hole Psychedelic drugs are experiencing something of a comeback, and not just at Burning Man. Here’s how hallucinogenic plants are helping people to heal themselves. By Carla Thomas

Plant Medicine

allucinogenic drugs have gotten a bad rap for years, tarnished by the excesses of (and political backlash to) the hippie movement in the 1960s. Drugs like LSD, psilocybin mushrooms and mescaline have become famous, then subsequently outlawed, for their recreational uses, but in recent years there’s a growing body of research to suggest that they may offer significant therapeutic benefits, too. As early as the 1940s, studies have shown hallucinogens could be highly effective in treating mental health issues, particularly in the case of drug addiction and alcohol abuse. More recent research has shown similarly promising results. A 2006 study demonstrated psilocybin significantly decreased depression and anxiety in patients with life-threatening cancer, with 80 percent of patients reporting improvements after treatment. Another study, released earlier this year, found that mice that were given low doses of LSD at regular intervals (known as “microdosing”) became more sociable, leading to speculation about therapeutic applications for people with a wide range of mental health concerns.

Leading universities like Imperial College London and John Hopkins University have even launched dedicated centres to psychedelic therapy. And while there’s been a noticeable uptick of interest in this newly rediscovered field, it’s unlikely that your doctor will prescribe you hallucinogens any time soon. That’s where psychedelic therapy retreats come in. Psychedelic retreats have been around in some form for thousands of years. Cultures in Asia, Africa and the Americas have all historically used plant-based psychoactives such as ayahuasca, peyote, psilocybin or ibogaine for important rituals, often in the pursuit of deeper consciousness and enlightenment, and in many parts of the world these practices have persisted. A more recent innovation has been the emergence of modern retreats and centres, which offer the same spiritual and emotional benefits of plant medicine in controlled, comfortable, and most importantly safe, environments. Retreats are held in places like Amsterdam, Costa Rica or Jamaica, where the substances used are either decriminalised 21

Plant Medicine

or legal, and run anywhere from a few days to more than a month. Behold Retreats is one such company, catering to clients interested in psychedelic therapy through “memorable, high-end plant medicine retreats that elevate you to your potential.” The company offers bespoke holidays using entheogenic drugs - psychoactive substances that encourage introspection and insight. Founder Jonathan de Potter says that the experiences his company offers are designed to be transformative and long-lasting. “What typically happens is people go on [other] retreats and have a very profound experience… but then a few weeks later, life returns to normal for them,” says de Potter. “People get into this cycle of normal life, followed by retreat, followed by normal life, and they’re often missing out on the mental and emotional work. It’s really helpful to have a coach or guide to help us spot our blind spots so that we can have more meaningful breakthroughs rather than just a single transcendent spiritual experience.” 22

Alongside the ingestion of psychoactives, Behold’s retreats consist of other activities like ceremonies, cleansing rituals, therapy, group integration work, yoga and meditation. While it’s tempting to view a week-long retreat suffused with mind-altering substances as a “party scene,” most plant medicine facilitators see the use of entheogens as the polar opposite of recreational drug use. Where people dropping acid at a music festival are trying to escape reality, for example, someone taking ayahuasca with a shaman in the Peruvian jungle is more likely trying to achieve a psychological or emotional breakthrough - for example facing their innermost fears. This is where intention is paramount, according to de Potter, who says that he is highly selective about which clients he chooses to work with. He organises retreats using highly trained and credentialed facilitators, and says that he expects his clients to do the work - before, during and after - to be able to participate in the practice. “We provide three weeks of preparation, guidance and self-inquiry beforehand, then a transformational retreat, and then three weeks of

guided integration work after,” adding that he will refuse to work with clients who aren’t there for the right reasons. “We're predominantly interested in serving people that are motivated,” says de Potter. “And that's not necessarily for everyone. We're focused on people who are already operating at a high level of consciousness, and want to be operating at an even higher level.” In such a nascent industry, it’s inevitable that bad actors will crop up and take advantage of unsuspecting and trusting clientele. De Potter says that while the overwhelming majority of people working in the space are well-intentioned, it’s important to do your research when considering a plant medicine retreat. He suggests doing plenty of research, asking for reference checks, and looking for signs that past clients experienced major shifts or changes in their life afterwards - an indication that the experience was indeed transformative. Most important is to understand whether it’s the right fit for you, and be committed to what you hope to achieve for yourself. It’s a process that can be deeply uncomfortable and challenging, but also has

life-changing potential, says de Potter. “There’s so much social and cultural programming and baggage that needs to be peeled away, and as we do, we naturally elevate our levels of consciousness….you’ll soon see that you start to experience a very different world.” Behold currently offers retreats in Costa Rica Mexico, Peru and the Netherlands, with a Thailand option available in the near future. behold-retreats.com

KNOW YOUR HALLUCINOGENS AYAHUASCA: a psychoactive tea made from vines found in the jungles of South America SAN PEDRO: a cactus native to the Andres, and a naturally occuring form of mescaline PSILOCYBIN: “magic mushrooms”, a group of fungi that are normally eaten raw to produce hallucinations

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Food

HEALTHY RECIPE

Tahini Cauliflower Couscous Whether you’re trying to cut carbs, give Paleo a go, or just get more veggies in your diet, this cauliflower couscous is about to become a staple of your dinner time routine. Check out Neelam Daswani, a qualified health coach, for more healthy recipes at her food blog (neelampurehealth.com) or on Instagram @neelampurehealth.

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy

TIME

50 minutes

INGREDIENTS

INSTRUCTIONS:

• 2 heads of cauliflower

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. 2. Grate the heads of cauliflower (you’ll use more than you think you need as the water evaporates). 3. Toss the grated cauliflower with olive oil, black pepper and salt. 4. Spread evenly on a tray and roast until it starts to turn golden brown, about 35 minutes, tossing halfway. 5. Separately, heat tahini and lemon juice in a saucepan. Add the grated parmesan if using. 6. Once melted, add the mixture to the roasted cauliflower. 7. Garnish with herbs.

• Olive oil • Salt and pepper

TIP: Pair with healthy proteins, veggies and good fats!

• 1 tbsp tahini • 2 tbsp lemon juice • Grated parmesan (optional) • Fresh basil or dill, for garnish

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Pamper

THE GLOW UP News from the beauty aisle

LATHER UP

Who doesn’t love a professional shampoo and blow-out once in a while? Here are our top three spots for a truly extra hair wash.

BRUNEBLONDE Tucked away in the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, this salon features a barbershop, nail spa and even private styling rooms. We tried their wash and blow-dry and loved every aspect of the experience. Lighting is dimmed in their shampoo area, with soft music playing for ultimate relaxation. For someone with neck problems like us, their ultra-comfortable Yume shampoo chair is designed to support your neck and head during the wash. They even offer a warm blanket and luxurious head massage as you wait for the conditioner to take effect. A hot towel infused with lavender is wrapped around the hairline at the end, before blowing out your tresses so they're glossy, smooth and touchably soft.

BRUNEBLONDE

Blow-dries start from $350 up to $1,100 depending on the stylist. Mezzanine, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, 1 Harbour Rd., Wan Chai, 2511-3988, bruneblonde.com

THE FIRM Celebrating 33 years in Hong Kong, The Firm Hair and Beauty has two locations, one in Central and one in Repulse Bay. Famous for their relaxing head massages, the treatment starts with a hair and scalp analysis to choose the correct product for your type. Next, they use a gentle sulphate-free cleanser made from natural ingredients to shampoo the hair. The cleanse is followed by a conditioning stage, featuring a 10-minute head massage to stimulate blood flow to the follicles for a healthy hair and scalp. $800. 7A Tung Yen Building, Chancery Lane, Central, 25256696, facebook.com/thefirmhk

The Firm 28

Zeva Hair Spa

ZEVA HAIR SPA Zeva was founded by certified trichologist Brenda Leung, who sought treatment for hair-thinning after undergoing chemotherapy. An initial consultation involves a close-up look at your hair and scalp with a powerful camera, before deciding on a course of action. We had been suffering from postpartum hair-shedding, and were recommended a combination of microneedling and laser to help stimulate hair growth. We loved the treatment and felt that not only was there less hair-shedding, we could go longer between washes. There are also several hair spa packages to choose from, starting at $800 for 75 minutes. These include a hair mask, head massage, shampoo and blow dry. 302, Lee Garden 6, 111 Leighton Rd., Causeway Bay, 2146-3118, zevahair.com

Pamper

SKINCARE

DA BALM

Vaccines may be making their way into the world’s population slowly but surely, but that’s no reason to skip the hygiene routine! To help keep your mitts squeaky clean AND supple, Aesop just launched this lovely hand sanitiser and moisturiser set. The Adventurer Roll-up Set ($460) is a collaboration with Christopher Raeburn, the fashion designer behind sustainable fashion brand RÆBURN, and comes in a portable pouch made from recycled fabrics. The kit comes with gel hand sanitiser and a tube of their

cult favourite Aromatique hand balm, plus their new Rinse-Free Hand Mist, so you can spray on sanitiser instead of slathering. Everything is vegan and crueltyfree, like everything Aesop does, and did you know that once you finish the products, you can return the empties at any of their stores in Hong Kong for recycling? Bring ANY empty aluminum tubing as well as plastic and glass bottles - even if they’re from other brands - and they’ll happily accept it for repurposing! aesop.com/hk

SPA

WORK IT

Want to kick-start your wellbeing? The Oriental Spa at the Landmark Mandarin Oriental is offering a 45-day tailor-made programme that’s actually a steal - by five-star hotel standards, at least! Their “New Year New You” package includes a personalised fitness programme designed by their team of certified personal trainers, including protocols and meal suggestions. Not only that, you get 10 PT sessions to keep you on task, $2,000 spending credit at the Spa Cafe, and access to the spa’s luxurious changing room and heat facilities. The whole package costs $10,280. The Oriental Spa, 5/F, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, 5 Queen’s Road Central, 2132-0011.

Home

RIGHT AT HOME with Kate Springer

rom the pretty blue- and pink-glazed ceramics at BEDU to the textured earth-toned plates at newly opened The Aubrey, handcrafted tableware can add an extra layer of personality and panache to any dinner spread. And we’re spoiled here in Hong Kong, since there’s no shortage of earthenware boutiques to choose from. In honour of Earth Month, I’ve hand-picked five of my favourite ceramics curators and creators around town. Traditional Hong Kong-style ceramics, Japanese precision, Nordic minimalism, custom creations, handson workshops - it’s all here.

Waka Artisans

Mariane Chan

Waka Artisans

Galerie Huit

Home

LOVERAMICS Loveramics is a homegrown family business with some history. Co-founder, William Lee, learned all about the local ceramic manufacturing from his grandfather, then set out to refresh and refine the art form with modern tastes in mind. It’s been over 10 years since Lee launched Loveramics in 2008 and, today, the brand enjoys an international following. That might have something to do with the barista-approved coffee mugs and diverse tableware collections, such as natureinspired Stone, Nordic-esque Er-Go! and the more traditional Willow Love Story. loveramics.com

MAISON HUIT An art gallery, creative workshop and lifestyle boutique all rolled into one, Maison Huit showcases the crème de la crème of luxury ceramics in Hong Kong. You won’t find anything mass-produced here: only one-of-a-kind creations by artisans at the top of their game. Think elegant hand-thrown ceramics by Japan’s Akio Nukaga and a whimsical “Species Pot” collection by British ceramicists Charlotte Mary Pack, who takes inspiration from the IUCN Red List of Endangered Species to create her porcelain pieces. maisonhuit.com.hk

MARIANE CHAN Fashion stylist-turned-ceramicist Mariane Chan creates small-batch, custom collections for restaurants across Hong Kong, such as Bedu, Soho House and Mama Always Said. She also works with individuals keen to commission a set of plates, bowls, mugs and more. Chan’s work varies since everything’s tailor-made, but you can generally expect beautiful glazing with brush-like strokes, contemporary shapes and bold colour palettes. mceramicsdesign.com

Waka Artisans

WAKA ARTISANS Founded by a mother-daughter duo in 2015, WAKA Artisans quickly made a name for itself in the ceramics world thanks to its handmade, beautifully crafted pieces from Japan. WAKA works with more than 30 different artisans to create its diverse collection, from pearly glazed bowls to textured white vases, earthy brown mugs and glaze-splashed sake sets. You’ll find a mix of functional pieces and museum-worthy artwork - and the price points are just as varied. The brand’s primary location at PMQ hosts hands-on workshops, so you can throw some clay yourself, or you can visit the Cheung Chau boutique to browse their lifestyle wares. wakaartisans.com

YUET TUNG CHINAWORKS If you’re looking for more traditional Canton-style pottery, then Yuet Tung Chinaworks is the place. Tucked away in an industrial building in Kowloon Bay, this treasure trove of hand-painted pottery is a third-generation, family-owned business that dates to 1928. And the overflowing inventory speaks to the factory’s history; picture towering shelves piled high with bowls, plates, cups, vases, platters and countless tea sets. Depending on when you visit, you might get lucky and catch one of the artists painting delicate blue willow trees or gold-leaf details in a corner of the jam-packed factory. porcelainware.com.hk

Kate Springer is a Hong Kong-based lifestyle writer who contributes to Vogue, CNN, Home Journal, Tatler, BBC Travel, Forbes Travel Guide, Fodor’s, Vice, and more. You can follow her on Instagram @katespringer. Send news about exciting home and design stories to kate@kate-springer.com.

Family

FIT FAM with Zoe Belhomme

CRAFT LANDING What better way to get into the Easter spirit (besides gorging on chocolate eggs and hot cross buns, of course) than getting away from the computer screen for an art jam with the kids? To get your creative juices flowing, I’ve enlisted the help of Hong Kong art teacher Miss Kit Lang for her best Easter crafting tips.

FOR LITTLE ‘UNS

Skip the stinky vinegar and food colouring when you’re decorating Easter eggs. Instead, paint them with oil pastels to create colourful patterns, then layer over top with watercolour paints. The oil pastels keep the watercolours from fading, and allow the colors to really shine through.

CONVINCING OLDER KIDS

For older artists (6-10 year olds), write or draw secret messages on small pieces of paper using white oil pastels. Hide the secret drawings and messages in plastic eggs for your Easter egg hunt. Once they’re discovered, reveal the hidden message by painting over them with watercolours.

HANDLING CREATIVE BLOCKS

Most children thrive on boundaries, so help them get started by drawing some shapes and lines for them to work around. Art is about experimentation, so allow the child to take the lead and make their own decisions about the colours, shapes and materials they use. But don’t be afraid to give prompts to guide them!

MANAGING MESS IN SMALL SPACES

Watercolour paints are ideal for Hong Kong homes. Palettes are small and easy to store, additional materials are minimal, and messes are easily cleaned up with water. Oil pastels can be messier, so make sure to lay a mat or newspaper down beforehand if using. 32

Family

BLOCK PARTY If your home is anything like mine, you’ve stepped on a few Lego bricks in your time. Kids with a penchant for building - and leaving your floor a plastic, pointy minefield - will love the LEGOLAND Discovery Center at K11 Musea. Designed for kids aged three to 10, this 30,000-square-foot centre is an interactive and educational experience. Start with a wander through a replica of all of our city’s most famous scenes and attractions, all of which are made entirely from Lego! From the Peak Tram and the Big Buddha, to Wanchai MTR and the Star Ferry, it’s hard not to be impressed by the intricate details included in each cityscape. There are two themed rides, Kingdom Quest and Merlin’s Apprentice, in addition to a soft play area and several workshop and building stations. At $240 per person, the three-hour session isn’t cheap for a family of four, but it’s solid entertainment for a few hours - particularly on a wet day. Top tip: the cafe isn’t much to write home about, so grab something to eat at K11 Musea before you head in! B131-133, K11 MUSEA Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, legolanddiscoverycentre.com/hong-kong

SCALED UP Wildlife-loving little ones will go nuts for this book: "A Field Guide to the Snakes of Hong Kong." Authored by local wildlife expert Adam Francis and co-produced by snake authority Robert Ferguson, this 196-page tome is a comprehensive guide to Hong Kong's snake population. In addition to a detailed summary of each species, complete with photo, size guide, habitat information and conservation status, you'll also find an easy system for identifying snakes, a guide to what to do if you get bitten, details on common errors when identifying snakes, and much more. It's a brilliant resource to flip through as a family so you're prepared for your next wildlife encounter on one of Hong Kong's trails. $280 from hongkongsnakeid.com.

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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