SEPTEMBER 2022 | liv-magazine.com LIV MAGAZINE FITNESS NUTRITION WELLBEING HOME ECO SPA TAKE I’MMEHOMEFREE! Phoenix-eye Fruit Bidens Pilosa L.BananaBlossomCordataHouttuyniaThunb. LeucocephalaLeucaenaCalamondinshiso ChamberBitter Supple-Jack Custard AppleWampimahoganyChineseChineseFeverVineMomordicaCharantiaL. Inside the wild world of Hong Kong foraging WOULD GATHERYOU....?
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muscle temperature raises by several degrees, similar to what a warm-up activity does before any workout. SUPRAMAXIMAL CONTRACTIONS Muscles in the treated area are intensely contracted.
FAT BREAKDOWN after TREATMENT
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therapy starts the temperature in fat cells reaches levels that cause their permanent damage. AFTER
MUSCLE WARM-UP
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03 Editor’s Letter LIV | NEWS 06 Wishlist Lovely things we want right now 10 Hot Right Now New happenings on the wellness scene 12 Fresh Cuts Kennedy healthiestTown'seateries 15 Review Spin at XYZ and a floating soundbath at The Yoga Room 18 Community Four lifestyle brands that give back with every purchase LIV | STORIES 20 Nature's Larder A journey into Hong Kong's ancestral tradition of foraging 26 Own Goal Your self-care guide, courtesy of our partners LIV | MORE 32 Recipe Steamed tofu with blistered edamame 34 Beauty Our fave affordable massage spots 36 Pets Leash-training with a local expert 20 SEPTEMBER 06 3
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6 On Wo Lane, Central www.theflowellness.com @theflowellness Feeling overwhelmed by the city? Want to find some peace? Visit THE FLO Wellness Garden, a tranquil getaway where you can find all the tools you need for a healthy mind, body and soul. EXCLUSIVE OFFERS FOR LIV READERS: • Enjoy online shopping in September. Get 10% off using the code ‘LIV’ at checkout. • With any purchase over $600, you can book a free 30-minute Chakra consultation with Flora and receive a piece of crystal according to your energy.
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Flora is the first and only certified Guide of Mystery School in Hong Kong. Rooted in shamanic and ancient mystic wisdom, Mystery School teachings have been handed down orally for centuries, with a focus on imparting individuals with the keys to empower, understand and master themselves.
"My reading with Flora enabled me to see areas that I needed to work on with greater clarity. She was able to provide insight with a kind and generous heart” – Irene Chong
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Florence Ng UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS September 9, 7-9pm Claim your Time! Introduction to the Mayan 13 Moon Calendar September 10-11, 10am-6pm Mystery School Adept Program September 25, 7-9pm New Moon Ceremony - reflection and intention setting September 30, 7-9pm Introduction to Chakras - Discover your inner rainbow THE FLO Wellness Garden Address:
Aarohi Narain heads into the woods with a local foraging expert on p.20.
CARLA THOMAS EDITOR
MOONSTRUCK EDITOR’S LETTER MEET CONTRIBUTORSOUR
Speaking of looking in our own backyard for food: this month, the Liv team hit the streets of Kennedy Town - where our offices are located - to round up our pick of the best healthy restaurants! You’d be surprised how many nutritious hidden gems exist in our neck of woods, see for yourself on p 12
For our four-legged friends, or the biped owners we expect will be reading it to them, we’ve launched our newest column, Paws for Thought, penned by our very own pet-owning publisher, Sarah Fung! Check it out and see what leash-training tips you might pick up on p.36
Sarah Fung launches our latest column, covering all things petrelated in Hong Kong, on p.36.
facebook.com/livmagazine.hkliv.magazine,#livmagazine www.liv-magazine.com Say hi hello@liv-magazine.com work with us hello@liv-magazine.com 5 PUBLISHER SARAH FUNG HEAD OF PARTNERSHIPS ANSHU RIJHWANI PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER MIREILLE CORNELIS EDITOR CARLA THOMAS SPECIAL PROJECTS STACEY MARCELO ADMINISTRATOR JASMIN BLUNCK GRAPHIC DESIGN TAMMY TAN CONTRIBUTORS AAROHI NARAIN PRINTED BY GEAR PRINTING LIMITED, ROOM B, 3/F, DERRICK INDUSTRIAL BUILDING, 49-51 WONG CHUK HANG ROAD, ABERDEEN ‘‘Liv Magazine’’ Copyright 2022 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.
Wishing you and yours a very happy Mid-Autumn Festival this year!
Send invites and info to: Makerhive, 10/F, Cheung Hing Industrial Building, 12P Smithfield, Kennedy Town E veryone’s back from summer holidays, school’s back in session, and mooncake offers are plastered everywhere you look. It can only mean one thing: autumn has arrived! I moved to Shanghai nine years ago, right on the cusp of the Mid-Autumn Festival. One of my first memories of living in China was buying mooncakes for myself, thinking I would just eat them in one go like a pack of Oreos. Oh, the Nearlyhubris!a decade later and in a different city, I’m happier to observe and learn foreign customs and traditions rather than barging into them blindly and nearly choking on a mouthful of lotus seed paste and egg yolk. That’s very much the spirit we approached our cover story with this month, which is all about foraging in Hong Kong’s ample untamed countryside. We interviewed one of the city’s foremost experts, Wanda Huang, who is descended from five generations of Chinese herbalists. More than just a trendy pastime of cottage-core hipsters, foraging is a cherished ancestral practice in these parts - one that she’s keen to preserve and pass on. But it’s essential to both tread and pick carefully. Learn more about how Hongkongers are keeping this tradition alive on p.20
WISHLIST Here's what we're crushing on this month
Add some positive vibes to your wardrobe with this kooky, colourful sock collection, inspired by the five love languages and designed in collaboration with local celeb Lesley Chiang. $128 or $688 for a box set at LOG-ON or Eslite store locations
Add a perfectly polished pop of pink to your ensemble with this multifunctional wrist piece! Made with rose gold, it’s oh-so shiny and connects to your mobile through the CASIO app. From $4,880 from G-SHOCK
TICK TOCK TREND
TAKE THE CAKE
6 Retail Therapy
Those crazy geniuses at Shake Shack have done it again! This time by mixing gratifying chunks of mooncake with pomelo and frozen custard into a special edition seasonal sweet treat. $65 at Shake Shack
TOE THE LINE
Wake up your senses with this super-mentholated shower gel. Spearmint leaves a tingly sensation on your skin, while vegetable glycerin and sea salt soften and soothe. $220 from Lush
MINT CONDITION
You’d never guess these stunning iridescent hoops were made from recycled plastic! We are hopelessly in love with the one-of-a-kind jewellery creations from this local brand! US$193 from winkatelier.com
7 Retail Therapy
NEW WHIP We can’t wait to slather on The Body Shop’s three new wellness-themed product lines: Sleep, Boost, and Breathe. We’re especially excited for the Whipped Body Cream, enriched with revitalising mandarin and bergamot.
$299 from The Body Shop SAFFRON SORTER Up your remote working game, with this butterscotch-hued organiser. It’s big enough for all your tech accessories and gadgets, and it’s made from recycled materials! $320 from Native Union
GIN WINNER Would you believe this is the only gin in the world to win “World’s Best Gin” four times? With a track record like that, we’re certainly up for seeing what all the fuss is about! $498 from hkliquorstore.com
HOOP DREAMS
Q Tell us about the kind of art that you do. I'm a writer and illustrator, but the common theme that threads my art together is storytelling. I try to engage my audience with a narrative that either represents or challenges them.
I began my illustration career because of limitations from my disabilities. When I was getting started, I couldn’t stand for very long, walk around, or keep a steady hand. But with an iPad, I don’t need to do any of that. The tablet is my whole studio. There are functions on the drawing app that allow me to steady my strokes if my hands are weak. I can create oil paintings and not have to worry about cleaning up. I can also try new styles without having to travel to art stores for supplies. What’s not to love about something that’s portable, accessible, and inclusive that still allows you to create a whole range of art?
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A fter chronic illness sidelined her corporate career, Sophia Hotung turned to digital art. Best known for her “The Hong Konger” series - a localised take on popular "New Yorker" magazine covers - she was invited to stay at K11 ARTUS as part of their Artist in Residence programme. She tells Liv how she became inspired by the harbourfront space.
Q Why do you prefer to work in your chosen medium?
FIND YOUR MUSE
Q Words of wisdom for young artist? Don’t stop making art just because someone said you were bad at it. Make art because it makes you happy. Sophia Hotung
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Q What is your initial thought about Artist in Residence and K11 ARTUS?
When I was invited, I felt honoured and excited. The first time I heard the phrase “artist-in-residence” was when I was eleven. My art teacher, Mr Edalatpour, was the school’s artist-in-residence and a professional sculptor. He wasn’t focused on his students’ natural ability. Instead, he encouraged enthusiasm. When I think of an artist-in-residence, I think about Mr Edalatpour and his legacy of encouraging enthusiasm and creativity in young artists.
Q You recently stayed at K11 ARTUS as part of their Artist-in-Residence programme. What work did you get done there? At K11 ARTUS, I wrote “The Heist of Hooded Light,” a 25-chapter, 40-illustration children’s mystery book about an art heist set at the residence. Since I’m drawn to storytelling and finding narratives in spaces, objects, and people, I was inspired by the artworks at the residence, many of which feature in the book.
Q How important do you think your environment is to one's creative process, and how did K11 ARTUS inspire you during your stay? I’m one of those people who loves curating work stations to enhance productivity. My ideal workspace has good light, interesting views, and the opportunity to people-watch. At K11 ARTUS, the light wasn’t just good - it moved me so much that light features almost as prominently as a character in "The Heist of Hooded Light". Sculptures, paintings, books, and even interior design patterns line the walls and halls of K11 ARTUS, serving up inspiration and ideas through their colours, textures, and shapes.
Q What’s your favourite illustration in the book? My favourite illustration is of the The Very Tall Man in the Very Bright Coat playing chess. He was my favourite character to draw because of the expressions I could convey with his distinct physicalities. I also loved picking the colours of his coats and associating those colours with meaning that would hint at themes and plot twists.
HOT RIGHT NOW
10 Cool Stuff
Built in 1888, the Peak Tram is one of the world’s oldest funicular railways, and an iconic part of Hong Kong history. Love it or hate it, the tourist attraction is an institution, and one we’re excited to rediscover given the new enhancements. Better still, Hong Kong residents receive special discounted ticket prices until the end of October! thepeak.com.hk
TAKE A PEAK Guess who’s back with a brand new track! Yes that’s right, the Peak Tram has made its triumphant return after a year of sorely needed refurbishments. The 6th Generation Peak Tram features a slew of fancy upgrades, including new track rails, roomier tramcars, signalling systems, improved accessibility, and larger waiting areas equipped with air-con. It’s estimated that the $799 million project will reduce waiting times by over 70 percent - no more soul-destroying queues!
3/F, H Code, High Block, 45 Pottinger St., Central, teamrenation.com
Wave Closuresof From POP Vegan to Hemingways, FOUND Cafe to Studio La Lune. So many of our favourite spaces have closed in the past month. :(
GOINGUPGOINGDOWN
SOLO MISSION
With more than 65,000 votes counted, we can’t wait until next month, when we unveil our winners’ list!
5/F, 46 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, palace-studios.com
MOTIVATION NATION
Quiet Quitting TikTok’s latest trend is all about setting boundaries at work and rejecting hustle culture. More of this in Hong Kong, please! MooncakeMayhem An estimated 4 million mooncakes are wasted each year in Hong Kong. This year, why not donate your excess cakes to charity?
It’s a big month for new gyms! RE/NATION is a new fitness studio that just opened an expansive space on the third floor of H Code. It’s the latest project from entrepreneur Wil Fang (founder of Cookie DPT and Carbon), and describes itself as a “holistic wellness destination” catering to different facets of wellness and health. From RECYCLE (a kitted-out spin studio with the latest audio and lighting equipment) and RECONDITION (strength and conditioning space) to the recovery-themed RECOVER and RECHARGE where you can meet with physios and sports masseuses, RE/NATION is a one-stop shop. Best of all, the team plans to hold regular sunset rides on the roof of Carbon, as well as monthly charity events.
11 Cool Stuff
A new fitness concept hits town this month! Palace Studios touts itself as Hong Kong’s first private on-demand fitness studio, offering individual spaces for personal trainers to meet with private clients in the comfort of state-of-the-art facilities. What’s different about Palace Studios is their tech platform, which makes it easy for clients to book sessions, with contactless entry to the premises via an app. The facilities look decidedly lush, with sleek, well-equipped fitness rooms; elegant and spacious changing rooms; organic skincare Bathe to Basics in the showers; and complimentary protein shakes. Most of all, we love that this is a solution to help Hong Kong’s fitness professionals operate with more ease, especially as so many gyms have closed in the last year.
The Wellness & Lifestyle Awards
Kennedy Town’s Healthy Dining Scene Takes Over K-WAVE:
This no-frills falafel joint has perfected the art of the cheap and cheerful lunch! We live for the falafel roll or one of their hearty salads with a dollop of hummus on the side.
KEFI
G/F, Kennedy Mansion, 165-175 Belcher’s St., Kennedy Town
4 GRAIN
Shop 1, New Fortune House, 3-5 New Praya Kennedy Town, 3500-5870, grain.com.hk
With its third location now open on Catchick Street, this specialty smoothie and coffee bar is on the rise! Their acai bowl mixes Greek yoghurt with berries, bananas, chia, and coconut for a super-healthy breakfast option, and we love their pancakes and fritter dishes, too.
G/F, 76 Catchick St., Kennedy Town, 6623-3297
1
FRESH CUTS Venture to the westernmost reaches of Hong Kong Island, or the last stop on the Island line, and you’ll be rewarded with top-notch culinary destinations.
1 6 3 2 10 8 4 5 12 Fresh Cuts
BELCHER’S ST NEW PRAYA NORTHSTSMITHFIELD DAVISSt
G/F, Kam Fu Mansion, 68 Catchick St., Kennedy Town, 3705-9201, fruitstop-hk.com
5 BLEND & GRIND
By Carla Thomas
A microbrewery first and foremost, there’s a surprising number of sensible options on this bar menu. Nutrient-dense salads composed of ancient grains and greens are a solid meal-time option, and vegetarians will swoon over the aubergine fritters and buffalo halloumi with buttermilk dressing.
Kefi is a new independent cafe that specialises in nutrient-dense dishes - think low-carb, low-calorie, high-protein and made with natural ingredients. Salads are a good shout here, but we also swoon for the low-sugar dessert menu.
2 FRUIT STOP Blink and you’ll miss it, this adorable little juice shop packs a mighty punch when it comes to vitamins and minerals! Not only do they offer cold-pressed juices and smoothies, you can also build your own salad with a choice of protein.
Town Place, 20 Catchick St., Kennedy Town, 6905-4038, blendandgrind.com
3 FALAFEL HUT
CATCHICKST SANDSST SAICHEUNGST
CHICKEN Reliable, nutritious, poultry-based - it doesn’t get better than this stalwart of K-Town’s healthy dining scene. Located in the lobby of Asphodel Fitness, if it passes the strict standards of CrossFit fanatics… it’s probably good enough for us. 22- 23 Praya, Kennedy Town, 2467-1838, healthychicken.store
40 Forbes St., Kennedy Town
A must-stop for the conscious consumer, we love SpiceBox for its expansive spice selection, clean beauty finds, organic veggies and snacks – and the grab’n’go food options! Their signature roti rolls come with either tandoori tofu and mushroom or grilled cauliflower, and are oh-so satisfying.
Redback Coffee. Pick up healthy bites like a chia and yoghurt bowl or a classic avo-eggs on toast, with breads and pastries by local bakeries Miam and Alive Eatery.
39-45 Hau Wo St., Kennedy Town, 2191-0886, spiceboxorganics.com
8 MAISON ERIC KAYSER
7 CREO BRENTWOODBY
9 13 Fresh Cuts
6 SPICEBOX ORGANICS
One of the city’s most underrated healthy spots is Eric Kayser - we swear by it! This French bakery chain does amazing salads, veggie sammies, and protein-packed snack pots, like lentils with roasted peppers or chickpea with feta chunks. Check out the K-Town branch just beneath The Hudson. 1 Davis St, Kennedy Town, 2577-1980, maison-kayser.com.hk
One of our fave Kowloon Bay hidden gems just opened up shop in K-Town! Creo by Brentwood is big on supporting Hong Kong producers and artisans, from its handmade ceramics to coffee by local specialty roaster
10 LITTLE COVE Little Cove, Sai Kung’s favourite cafe, just soft-opened its second branch in the heart of K-Town’s breezy waterfront. Expect healthy Mediterranean fare and on-point espresso from this cult-favourite, and expect to queue when visiting on the weekends for the foreseeable future! G/F, New Fortune House, 3-5 New Praya, Kennedy Town
ASPHODELI BY HEALTHY
9
CHEAT DAY: WHISK
14 Dining FOOD NEWS
F&B
LOCAL JOIN ONE PLANET PLATE
The One Planet Plate initiative is a newly launched global campaign that invites restaurants to strengthen their eco-friendly efforts by introducing sustainabilityfocused meals. Participating vendors create dishes based on five criteria: zero-waste, locally sourced, veggie-forward, low-carbon footprint, and sustainably sourced seafood. Over 6,000 restaurants, including 31 of the World’s Best 50 Restaurants, are participating worldwide, with more expected to join as the campaign progresses. Here in Hong Kong, we’re thrilled to report that several of the city’s leading restaurants are on board. Everyone from everyday eateries like Pizza Express, Treehouse and SpiceBox Organics, to Michelin-starred venues like Amber and Andō are getting involved. To support this cause, check out the One Planet Plate website to find a restaurant near you taking part. Alternatively, you can find recipes to make the dishes yourself online at oneplanetplate.org!
The Michelin-recommended restaurant at The Mira Hong Kong has been seriously upping its culinary game recently, with a dazzling new mid-summer omakase dining experience handcrafted by their new chef du cuisine, Chef William Lau. The ten-course menu is a gastronomic journey, inspired by seasonal ingredients sourced directly from Japanese suppliers and local farms. We’re wowed from start to finish: an amuse-bouche of charcoal-grilled eel on pan-seared buckwheat blini; main courses of lobster with uni and tomato compote, Hirami with shishito pesto, and torched Wagyu with okonomiyaki sauce; and delicate desserts, like a Japanese white peach gelato with accents of rose and hibiscus. Fantastic value for the quality of service and food, this is the perfect special occasion destination. Starts from $980 for 6 courses, up to $1,888 for 12 courses. 5/F, The Mira Hong Kong, Mira Place, 118 Nathan Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, 2315-5999, themirahotel.com
Liv checks out the newest workouts and wellness trends
TEST-DRIVE
The Classes: Even though it’s located in a commercial building right in the heart of Central, the new space feels like a quiet haven. It’s sleek and modern, with spacious change rooms, top-of-the-line equipment, and three purpose-built studios. First we head to the Cocoon studio, designed for classes that foster the body’s slower yin energy. We take XYZ’s signature yoga class, “Mind of Movement,” a deliberate, mindful flow that encourages introspection. After that, it’s time to head to the Cave - a theatrical spin studio with flashing lights and thumping soundtrack that’s reminiscent of the XYZ we once knew. We hop on our bikes for an energising resistance-based spin class, “Grow Young,” which pairs sprints, hill tracks, and light weight-lifting.
Cost: $350 yogaroomhk.com EXPERIENCE
The Buzz: We were thrilled to hear that boutique spin studio XYZ is back in action after a hiatus, and in a cavernous new location on Queen’s Road Central. Intrigued by the promise of new classes offeringsincluding yoga, dance, Pilates, kickboxing, and more - we decide to check it out.
FLOATING YOGASOUNDBATHAROMATICATTHEROOM
The Experience: We arrive to class on an early Sunday evening. Malbert is there to help us into our aerial hammocks, adjusting the material so it’s just right for us. He gives the class some quick instructions on how to mount and dismount, followed by some light seated stretching. Then we recline into our soft, cosy cocoons.
The Buzz: One of the city’s most established yoga studios, we trust anything The Yoga Room has to offer. The yoga studio is currently offering a limited series of workshops and events, featuring an exciting lineup of the city’s top wellness experts. We were especially interested in the restorative Floating Aromatic Soundbath, which pairs the weightlessness of aerial floating with a deeply grounding gong bath.
WORKOUT
YOGA & SPIN AT XYZ
The Verdict: A match made in heaven! This was the highlight of our weekend - the perfect way to transition into the work week ahead. We loved how Malbert concludes the session with a dash of aromatherapy essential oils, giving us a gentle nudge that brings us back into the present using our senses. A unique restorative experience that we’d be happy to climb into a hammock for again.
The Verdict: The revamped XYZ is more than just its new environment. It’s got a whole, fresh approach to holistic fitness that we’re really feeling. Committed to offering mind, movement and spin classes, we appreciate the more considered and balanced approach to wellness that’s on offer here. And the facilities are decidedly chic, with filtered water stations, Dyson hair dryers, complimentary coffee and organic bath products in the showers. An admirable new addition to the city’s fitness landscape.
A professional sound healer, Malbert begins to play his assortment of crystal bowls, gongs, tuning forks and Tibetan bowls, creating an immersive soundscape that’s powerful and nourishing. Paired with the soft, barely perceptible swinging from the hammock, we’re quickly lulled into a deeply relaxing state that seems to stretch on for hours.
Cost: $400 per class, $2,400 for eight classes for first-timers. youarexyz.com
15 Reviews
Q What are some of the differences between how yoga is practised in Hong Kong, and how it is practised in India? In Hong Kong, there has never been a trendier time to practise yoga, or even become a yoga teacher. It has been completely commercialised by big brands and social media. But one positive outcome is that through yoga, people are happier, healthier and less stressed. In contrast, the focus of yoga in India is spiritual attainment rather than physical performance. Our While yoga has firmly entered the mainstream as a workout that benefits mind and body, its roots lie in a spiritual practice dating back more than 5,000 years. We speak to Gopal Palanisamy, instructor at PURE Yoga, about how we can incorporate more of yoga’s fundamental traditions in our practice.
GOPAL PALANISAMY
At the age of 8, I was hugely into watching Bruce Lee films, and I wanted to learn Kung Fu. Without asking my parents’ permission, I joined a martial arts class at school! Once they found out, they made me switch to yoga, and from that day, yoga has been a huge part of my life, and one of my greatest blessings.
Sponsored Feature 16
Q What do you believe is the true meaning of yoga? Yoga is not about postures. Yoga means “union” - this can refer to the union of existence, your oneness with the world and the integration of your inner being with the supreme consciousness. Most of the time, we want to be powerful, rich, knowledgeable and loved. But these are all spiritual processes going in the wrong direction. Yoga helps you cultivate self-awareness, inner peace and acceptance.
ExplorE Your SIDESpIrITuAl
Q How did you get into yoga?
• Chant some mantras for inner peace and confidence
Q At what point in their lives do you find people begin to seek more meaning from yoga? In my opinion, it depends on the individual and how they relate to yoga in their daily life. Some people are happy enough with the physical aspects of yoga. The spiritual side of yoga emphasises the importance of inner peace and clarity of mind; attaining the perfect posture is of secondary importance. A good yoga practice is where a person feels inner peace and joy and carries that feeling off the mat and into their daily life.
Q How do you honour yoga’s spiritual side in your classes at PURE ?
• When you wake up, sit up straight for a couple of minutes. Take a moment to connect with the higher consciousness and seek blessings for a good day.
I usually start the class by chanting OM, which helps my students feel the strong vibration of the Mantra. I talk a lot about grounding, gratitude, humbleness, cleanliness, slowing down and opening your heart. Kindness, respect and a lack of hatred in your heart are also important to me, and ideals I try to communicate with my students as much as possible.
PURE now offers flexible contracts that can be conveniently purchased online. Get access to 22 PURE locations with one-, six- or 12-month contracts with plans that are as flexible as you need them to be. Visit puregroup.com.hk now to discover the packages available, and enjoy exclusive offers, including free membership upgrades.
Gopal teaches at World Trade Centre, Peninsula Office Tower and Starstreet studios.
ANJAN KUNDU
• Be more conscious of your breath both on and off the mat
• Meditate for at least a few minutes each day
CONNECT WITH YOUR SPIRITUALITY
Thinking of deepening your connection with your yoga practice? Try incorporating these simple daily practices to nurture a more profound sense of inner peace.
ADD FLEXIBILITY TO YOUR PRACTICE!
• Before you go to sleep , sit down with your eyes closed and take a moment to express gratitude for your day.
Sponsored Feature 17
Another popular instructor at PURE Yoga, Anjan teaches at Asia Standard Tower and Langham Place Studios. He began his yoga practice at age six, when his father enrolled him in yoga school in India. To him, you can tap into the spiritual side of yoga without leaning into religion. "Many people mix up religion and spirituality, and to me they are two different things," he says. "When I teach group classes, I understand that people are coming to yoga from all kinds of backgrounds, and so my approach to spirituality is more measured. I teach discipline, respect for your body, and understanding more about yourself."
In order to develop your spiritual practice, Anjan recommends starting from within. "Start by reading yoga philosophy books. Try to understand every word, line by line. Then spend time with your inner self and get to understand yourself a bit better. Finding a guru or instructor who resonates with you would also help you explore a more spiritual path." practice leads us to transcend the body through meditation, studying traditional text, chanting kirtan and satsang, a type of spiritual practice.
18 Community ECO/CONSCIOUS
Scented candles may be a dime a dozen, but these hand-poured soy wax candles from social enterprise ReStore also tell a unique tale. Each one is crafted by a woman escaping sexual exploitation. Launched by the Christian nonprofit Sons and Daughters in 2019, ReStore offers holistic care and training to people who have experienced trafficking in Hong Kong’s sex trade, giving them the opportunity to chart a new course of independence and freedom from bondage. Every purchase comes with a code: use it to unlock the story of the woman who created your candle through the ReStore website. If you want to deepen your engagement, consider attending a volunteer session - it includes dinner and a tour through Sheung Wan. restoreshop.org
ReStore
SELFLESS CARE: THAT GIVE BACK TO THE scentedUnwindCOMMUNITYwithcandles
From earth-conscious TLC to scented candles that promote financial independence, these made-in-Hong Kong goods empower members of our community. It’s never been easier to direct your dollars to causes that count. By Aarohi Narain
4 LIFESTYLE BRANDS
LUuna-naturals.com
What do you do with your used cooking oil? If you’re pouring grease down the drain, think again. Litres upon litres of cooking oil coagulate into waxy “fatbergs”, clogging sewers and endangering public health. That’s why we’re big fans of these hand and dish soaps, which upcycle cooking oil into minimalist yet effective cleaning solvents. Made by members of the Hong Kong Women Workers’ Association (hkwwa.org.hk), a cooperative that organises and upskills women workers, these soaps are perfect for a no-nonsense deep clean that doesn’t cost the earth. Available at i-COMMON HK & Green Bitch
Soothe your body and mind with planet-friendly period care Hong Kong’s own LUÜNA naturals is the period wellness company of our dreams. Combining sustainability with community impact, LUÜNA not only makes period products that are both skin and planet-friendly, but also partners with numerous organisations to freely distribute pads and tampons to refugees, ethnic minorities and others who struggle to afford period products. Each purchase brings us one step closer to a world where menstrual equity is the norm, and talking about periods is no taboo. Want to see chemicalfree period products at your workplace? LUÜNA works with employers to provide amenities and education.
19 Community Hong Kong Women Workers’ Association
Care for skin with soap bars that blend sustainability and social inclusion
LUÜNA Soaper Delights
Aarohi Narain is a writer from New Delhi, based in Hong Kong. She most enjoys covering topics in food, arts, travel and identity. Read her work at aarohinarain.com, and email her with your community news at aarohi.narain@gmail.com.
An estimated 8 percent of Hongkongers live with one or more disabilities, but according to a 2020 study by the Equal Opportunities Commission, only about 15 percent of them are active in the workforce. Small business Soaper Delights set out to do something about this sobering statistic. The brand partners with Hong Kong Down Syndrome Association (hk-dsa.org.hk) to meet all of its soap-wrapping needs. While most supermarket toiletries come chock full of synthetic fragrances and toxic chemicals, this homegrown label makes handmade bathroom essentials that promise an irritation-free, low-impact experience. soaperdelights.com Cleanse your space with sustainable solvents
Aarohi Narain
The of is and it’s and proceed with caution, as finds out.
world
expansive
important to tread gently
foraged foods
WhErE ThE WIlD ThIngS groW: Konghong Cover Story 20
eyeopening, but
Huang is one of a handful of proponents leading Hong Kong’s blossoming foraging movement. Long practised by elderly aunties, today it’s become more mainstream, embraced by everyone from nature enthusiasts and daytrippers to the city’s top restaurants and bars.
“Wild plants have managed to protect themselves from pests and diseases for countless generations,” says Wanda Huang, one of Hong Kong’s foremost foraging experts. “They’ve evolved over thousands, even millions of years… so when we eat something from the wild, we’re taking all that in.”
Huang is descended from five generations of Chinese herbalists on her father’s side, and she brings an encyclopaedic knowledge of wild edibles. As a young girl, she was taught how to forage by her father and grandfather on China’s untamed hillsides, and continues the practice today.
“I am not trained as a botanist, but I want to do my part to preserve and pass on this ancestral knowledge,” she says. Prior to the pandemic, the Canadian-Chinese educator and conservationist regularly led guided foraging expeditions in Hong Kong’s countryside, sharing her knowledge with curious observers.Forinstance, she explains: dandelions are a wild form of lettuce that have not been widely domesticated by humans. Yet the plant contains substantially more vitamin C, A, and K than a standard head of grocery store lettuce, its commonly cultivated cousin. It’s virtually indestructible and relentlessly persistent; even a small piece of root left in the ground can regenerate and shoot back up. “You can imagine the wonderful nutrients it carries,” she asserts.
Chinese
Soon-to-bePhoenix-eyeWampimahoganyfruitbananas For A g I ng FI n DS I n h ong Kong t
Photo by Lorraine de Baufort
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The farms in Hong Kong that Huang visits tend to use only a part of their land for organic agriculture, because it encourages beneficial insects and leaves adequate space for crop rotation. The biggest farm she works with is Yi O, a cooperative organic farm located about five minutes by boat away from Tai O. She says they have 11 hectares of land, but only cultivate three of them, leaving eight wild hectares for Huang to roam around for ingredients.
To start with, plants and trees that grow in urban areas are often sprayed heavily with insecticides. So, while pruning mystery berries or plucking a furry mushroom on a well-worn path may sound idyllic, you risk poisoning yourself - or worse.
“People can be quite sensitive even if the farmland appears abandoned. I’ve been scolded before by landowners,” she cautions. “That’s why I prefer to work closely with an organic farm and get their permission.”
o rg A n I c FA rm S A n D F or A g I ng Wh AT IS F or A g I ng? Simone Rossi
Photo by Ewa Wilkinson
Photo by Ewa Wilkinson
Photo by Lorraine de Baufort
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“COVID-19 gave us a chance to slow down and better understand what surrounds us - local flavours, markets and producers,” says Simone Rossi, Director of Bars at Rosewood
It’s also illegal to dig up plants - including algae, lichens and fungi - from private land without permission from the landowner or occupier. Some species are specially protected against picking, uprooting, damage and sale. According to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, foraging in country parks is also prohibited by law. It can be tricky to find your footing when it comes to this road less travelled. That’s why people like Huang are essential to learning the ropes. She says there are two options for finding clean and obtainable plants in Hong Kong: abandoned farmlands and local organic farms.
In a city that imports over 90 percent of its produce, primarily from mainland China, foraged goods from organic farmland reflects a very different, and far more conscious, approach to food appreciation. No surprise then, that Huang has connected some of the city’s most popular F&B establishments with organic farmers, helping them to sell their produce - which they may consider no more than pesky weeds - at fair prices.
Foraging, also known as wildcrafting, is the act of gathering wild plants for free. In a city renowned for its verdant forests - around 75 percent of Hong Kong is green countryside - it offers ample natural resources for the savvy scavenger. But it’s not as simple as just hitting the trails and picking your haul.
“We like to push the limits of brewing craft beers by using new and rare fruits,” says Yardley Brothers’ Terence Yiu. “We want to showcase the different possibilities of beer.”
Local craft brewery Yardley Brothers also released a limited edition sour beer featuring foraged fruit: the native wampi. A distant relative of citrus renowned in Chinese medicine for aiding digestion and reducing inflammation, the sweet-sour tree fruit grows extensively in southern China and parts of southeast Asia.
Last year, the hotel’s award-winning cocktail lounge DarkSide partnered with spirits brand Fernet Hunter as well as Huang, to create their own locally sourced amaro - an herbal liqueur - using foraged ingredients.
“The goal with the Hong Kong amaro was to have a very bright and fresh style with subtle bitter notes that expresses a local terroir,” says Rossi. “The final blend of botanicals includes bur-marigold leaves, Chinese mugwort,
Hong Kong. “People are starting to open their eyes to what can be found in their own backyard, instead of what can be shipped across the border.”
The Kwai Chung-based brewery worked with residents in Mo Tat Wan, a small village on the southern side of Lamma Island, to forage 100 kilos of wild wampi from the community’s surrounding wildland. Then they handsqueezed the fruit, before hopping it to create the Foraged Sour: a mouth-puckeringly tart brew with notes of tamarind, dried plum and fennel.
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The amplified tasting notes of untame ingredients - often bitter, sour and astringent - may challenge less experimental palates, but they’ve become highly prized by discerning tastemakers. Nana Chan is the founder of artisanal tea brand Plantation. She says that wild-grown teas, lauded for their fullflavoured infusions, are a sought-after commodity with tea-lovers, too. “Wild teas must struggle to survive and have had time to crossbreed. In contrast, most cultivated teas are selected and developed by humans,” she explains. Five-star hotels including the Mandarin Th E mo DE rn F or A
Huang estimates there are about 3,000 varieties of plants in Hong Kong. A handful are poisonous, while many more have different degrees of toxicity. Plenty, however, are just plain delicious and nutrient-dense. The evergreen prickly ash, for example, evokes the numbing Sichuan peppercorn, doused in zesty lime. Shell ginger leaves make aromatic wrappers for Chinese dumplings. Malabar spinach offers twice as much vitamin A as kale, and is abundant in vitamin C, iron, calcium, and potassium. Wood sorrel plants offer a mildly sour taste, DarkSide, Rosewood HK Plantation Plantation
citron leaves, Cuban oregano, wild ginger seeds and leaves, calamansi, calamondin, Lantana flowers and leaves, pomelo leaves and wild Chinese peppercorns. We crafted something that celebrates the city’s rich culture and flavours.”
For those adventurous and open-minded enough, Huang says that foraging offers myriad benefits, from innovative flavours to a potent payload of vitamins and minerals. There’s also the opportunity to reconnect with nature, explore the wild frontiers of Hong Kong, and the surprising gratification that comes with plucking your next meal from the earth.
What’s the easiest way to get started on your foraging journey? Supporting Hong Kong’s organic producers goes a long way, by keeping swathes of the city’s vast wilderness free, unfarmed, and open to the city’s foraging community. Some local resources also exist for the studious forager. Oil Street Art Space, a public art space overseen by LCSD, released a set of 20 illustrated cards featuring the city’s most common edible weeds. “We designed and launched our ‘Yeah Veggie’ cards to encourage the public to reflect on food justice principles, and learn more about wild plants,” a representative from Hong Kong’s Art Promotion Office said. The cardinal rule for foraging: never start solo! It’s essential to begin by partnering up with a local expert, who is able to teach you best practices while also keeping you “Foragingsafe. should be carried out responsibly,” advises Rossi from Rosewood Hong Kong. “You need to know what you’re looking for and be cautious of over-foraging. Go with a local expert who will make sure you don’t miss out on any of the good stuff.”
Photo by Lorraine de Baufort
Photo by Lorraine de Baufort
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h o W T o
According to Huang, the following organisations offer semi-regular foraging workshops in Hong Kong: Yi O Farm, A-Team Edventures and Hong Kong Gardening Society g ET I nvolv ED while the savoury pods of the mimosa bean go a long way in livening up curries. Bur-marigold, one of the botanicals used in DarkSide’s amaro, adds depth to stir-frys, soups, even a humble plate of scrambled eggs. Huang points out that foraged greens, herbs and flowers have been a part of Asian culture for many generations, used in everything from teas and tinctures to medicinal infusions. “People in rural parts of Thailand and China routinely eat wild vegetables, but there’s no glamorisation in the media,” she says. “It’s only in the last five or six years that foraging has become trendy in the west.”Shewarns, however, that there’s a growing belief among local foragers that store-bought produce - sweeter in taste and larger in size - is superior to wild ingredients. Huang describes it as an internalised stigma that she’s afraid will affect the practice’s future. “Many heritage foragers in the community, particularly elders in Fanling and northern parts of the New Territories, do not consider their own wisdom sacred,” she says.
CHINESE MESONA: A main ingredient in grass jelly. Also contains powerful antioxidant properties.
Illustration Credit: Oil Street Art Space
What natural delights await out in our city’s rugged hinterlands? Here are some of the most commonly found plants, flowers and fruits easily spotted. But remember: never try foraging without the helpful guidance of a local outdoor expert, like Huang.
WHITE MUGWORT: A hardy plant native to China. Often used in TCM to treat menstrual and liver disorders.
BLACK NIGHTSHADE: A perennial shrub with clusters of edible berries. Can be similar in appearance to its toxic cousin, deadly nightshade - don’t ingest without a guide present!
CASSIA TORA: Also known as sickle senna. An edible weed used in traditional medicine; often brewed into tea.
PAPAYA: Green papaya trees abound on HK’s outlying islands. High levels of vitamin C, E, A, and folate.
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5 E DI bl E p l A n TS I n h ong Kong
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So much more than a sheet mask and a bubble bath, true self-care is a multi-faceted term that encompasses mental and physical health, happiness, stress management and accountability. Practically speaking, while it can of course refer to making regular time for exercise, interests and personal enrichment, it can also mean prioritising your needs by protecting your mental health, reinforcing boundaries, setting life, financial and career goals, and preventative wellness to achieve long termWithhealth.this in mind, we’ve teamed up with the following fabulous local brands who can help you achieve your self-care goals, whatever they may be.
Yourself Self-Care
Show Up For
Are certain aspects of your life in need of some TLC? It’s time to practice some serious self-care!
centralminds.hk
ABOUT THE FOUNDER: Monica Browning is a certified ICF (PCC) leadership & life coach. Raised in Hong Kong, she brings 20-plus years’ experience in corporate and international HR, and has worked in the UK, Europe, Australia and Asia. Monica’s purpose is to help people better know themselves, live in closer alignment with their core values and honour their own health and wellbeing. couragethroughcoaching.com
ABOUT THE FOUNDER: Dr. Sharmeen Shroff is a registered clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience working in Hong Kong, the UK and the USA. She serves as a mental health clinical advisor for The Zubin Foundation and City Mental Health Alliance. She is passionate about promoting open conversation about mental health, educating the public and challenging the associated stigma that often comes with mental health.
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Coaching is an act of self-care. It helps you better connect with your deeper truth, brings clarity and authenticity to decision-making, and supports you in moving forward with confidence. Coaching can benefit everyone and equips you with practical tools that you can use throughout your life. Courage Through Coaching provides leadership and life coaching services that support your personal and professional development, steering you towards a life of greater clarity, balance, purpose and fulfilment. Sessions with founder Monica Browning go beyond cognitive exploration, and integrate the mind, heart and body for greater self-awareness. Areas of focus include leadership development, building confidence, getting unstuck, boundary-setting, exploring mindset, and supporting people who are pivoting professionally or personally.
Central Minds YOU NEED SOME MENTAL
IF
Courage Through Coaching IF YOU NEED SOME HELP FINDING YOUR PATH IN LIFE...
Central Minds is Hong Kong’s leading psychology practice serving individual adults, children, couples and families. Their therapists provide the highest standard of care to every client through evidencebased clinical practice combined with personalised treatment. Their therapists address the whole spectrum of emotional difficulties, from day-to-day worries to complex psychological conditions. They are reliable and credible, and their years of experience, expertise and values set them apart from other practices. Their corporate mission is to utilise their knowledge and extensive experience to deliver bespoke mental health training to organisations. They aim to raise awareness, challenge stigma and empower employees with the knowledge, tools and resources to talk about and address their mental health.
HEALTH SUPPORT…
Horizon Private Wealth believes in sustainable financial management without compromise. It offers great advice and the highest levels of service, balancing care and expertise. The team recognises that their clients’ needs change depending on their life stages, and so they are committed to taking the time to understand your personal circumstances to come up with a plan that factors in your lifestyle, your appetite for risk and your future plans. Clients truly value Horizon’s advice and tailored service when it comes to financial planning. Horizon also works across multiple markets, including Hong Kong, Singapore and the U.K., to ensure your financial planning needs can be met wherever you go.
ABOUT THE MANAGER: Kishan Karia is a Senior Wealth Manager with Horizon Private Wealth. He likes to keep things simple and focused, getting to understand what is truly important to his clients. This sets the foundation of creating a clear, flexible plan that allows you to take the stress out of your finances, no matter what life throws at you.
GLTD IF WORK IS BURNING YOU OUT…
horizonprivatewealth.co Horizon Private Wealth IF YOU NEED TO GET A GRIP ON YOUR FINANCES…
Many executives feel like they are in a pressure cooker - overwhelmed by the demands on their time, and stressed by navigating competing personalities and balancing priorities. If this sounds familiar, get in touch with Liesbeth van der Linden of GLTD. She’s an executive coach who helps high-performers stay grounded by equipping them with tools from the Energy Leadership programme. Energy Leadership helps executives rise above the noise and redirect their energy to a more constructive mindset. GLTD’s coaching programs begin with a leadership assessment. Liesbeth then uses these insights to coach clients, helping them to become more powerful communicators, more engaged team contributors, and more effective leaders.
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ABOUT THE FOUNDER: Liesbeth is a professional certified coach who has spent almost 10 years in Asia. She has more than 20 years of management and leadership experience in the Netherlands, Germany, China and Hong Kong. Liesbeth’s coaching style is effective because it is honest, direct, result-oriented and empowering. gltd.co
IF YOU’RE NOT SURE WHAT YOU NEED, BUT WANT SOME HELP FINDING OUT…
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Lifehub is a medical wellness centre that specialises in well-ageing and full body health. Taking a functional medicine approach, experts in internal wellbeing and external aesthetics work with their clients to identify underlying causes to persistent health complaints or suboptimal health. Common complaints include low energy, poor sleep, digestive issues, slow metabolism or simply a demanding lifestyle. LifeHub’s friendly, professional team can recommend easyto-do functional medicine tests, supplements or IV wellness drips to help chart your way back to optimal health. Their best-selling wellness IV drips ensure maximum absorption of key nutrients. Formulations include IV Skin Glow, IV Healthy hair and IV LifeDrip.
One of Hong Kong’s longest-running holistic wellness centres, the Integrated Medicine Institute believes that self-care should prioritise protecting your mental state, your physical health and your relationships. Their mission is to empower their clients with a foundation of good health, equipping them with the tools to build their inner resources. Their practitioners hail from a diversity of disciplines, and include psychotherapists, naturopaths and osteopaths - all of whom are dedicated to helping clients achieve better self-care. Whether you’re seeking a better work/life balance, looking for a herbal tincture to ease stress, dreaming of a good night’s rest, or simply want someone to talk to, IMI is ready to assist.
ABOUT THE FOUNDERS: LifeHub was founded by Dr. Jonathan Seah and Candice Chan. Having worked in healthcare and wellness for more than 10 years in Hong Kong and the US, they decided to combine their knowledge to create a better way for consumers to experience healthcare. Though LifeHub, they encourage clients to take charge of their health with convenient wellness centres that provide knowledge, tools and support. thelifehub.com LifeHub IF YOU WANT A WELLBEING M.O.T…
ABOUT THE FOUNDER: Carole Bradshaw is a core process psychotherapist and one of five of IMI’s founders and directors. Together with the IMI team, her vision is to provide people with the tools to take their healing to the next level, combining naturopathy, psychotherapy, osteopathy, homeopathy and more. imi.com.hk
MedicineIntegratedInstitute
ABOUT THE FOUNDER: Sarah is a certified personal trainer, nutrition coach and women’s fitness specialist. Understanding that many people find gyms intimidating, her goal was to create a private safe space where everyone can build confidence in the gym and become the best version of themselves. naked-fit.com Naked Fit IF YOU WANT TO TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR PHYSICAL HEALTH…
Naked Fit is a newly opened private personal training studio in the heart of Sheung Wan. Specialising in HIIT, strength and conditioning, and pre and post-natal training. The studio offers private one-on-one, small group classes and couple’s training sessions, with exclusive use of the gym. They also have an in-house certified nutrition coach to guide you on diet planning and nutrition, working with you to create a plan that will allow you to enjoy a busy Hong Kong lifestyle while nourishing your body in the best way possible. Each session is tailored to you and your health goals, whether it’s strength-training, fat loss or general fitness. Founder Sarah McDonnell has an infectious energy and her workouts are a ton of fun too!
Aimed at women aged 40 and above, LT Nutrition has launched Reset 40, a 12-week online nutrition programme designed for women who are experiencing perimenopause and menopause symptoms. Reset 40 is an evidenced-based nutrition programme that leverages the current science to educate women on how to nourish their body through the menopause transition. Women learn how to manage weight distribution change, hormone imbalances and gut issues, as well as heart, bone and brain health during this important and often misunderstood life stage. Knowledge is power and the ultimate goal of Reset 40 is to give women confidence in their knowledge, their food choices and their body.
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ABOUT THE FOUNDER: Lisa Tarquini is an experienced UK-registered nutritionist and a member of the Hong Kong Nutrition Association. With more than 20 years of experience, Lisa’s practice focuses on women’s health, in particular perimenopause and menopause, gut health and weight management
LT Nutrition IF YOU WANT TO SUPPORT YOUR BODY AS YOU APPROACH MENOPAUSE…
ABOUT THE FOUNDER: Miles Price created Peak Metabolism out of a need to provide a more affordable and supportive platform for patients suffering ill health in Hong Kong. Miles was certified with the Institute of Functional Medicine in 2021 - the first person in Hong Kong to do so - and is an accredited full member of BANT (UK), the British Association of Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine. peakmetabolism.com
MetabolismPeak IF YOU SUSPECT YOUR HORMONES MIGHT BE OUT OF WHACK...
Are the prolonged mandated pandemic regulations affecting your mental state? According to Mind HK, a growing number of Hong Kong residents are experiencing pandemic-related stress, anxiety or depression, resulting from issues such as having tested positive for COVID-19; fear of loved ones becoming infected; anxiety over forced quarantine or isolation; general exhaustion from excessive worry, and a host of other factors. Continuing to carry this burden alone is not beneficial to your overall wellbeing, and it can be immensely helpful to talk to someone. Thrive Wellness has two mental health professionals on staff to help you deal with stress, anxiety and burnout.
Peak Metabolism is a dedicated functional medicine clinic providing a full range of integrative services to determine the root cause of your health issues. All their practitioners are certified with the Institute of Functional Medicine and the Functional Medicine University. They focus on hormonal disorders, (PMS, energy, mood, sleep) gut disorders (reflux, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea) and auto-immune diseases, conducting investigations with the help of specialised labs in order to determine what’s holding you back. Their interventions range from customised diet plans and supplement regimes to creating specific detox protocols.
IF THE PANDEMIC IS GETTING YOU DOWN... Ilissa Howard Ceilidh Halloran
ABOUT THE PRACTITIONERS: Thrive Wellness’ Psychotherapist Ilissa Howard and Psychologist Ceilidh Halloran can help you to regain control of your life by identifying the issues that most concern you, equipping you with the best tools to help overcome your fears and effect positive changes. thrivewellness.com.hk Thrive Wellness
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GARNISH: •
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INGREDIENTS: 1 tbsp sesame oil edamame pods, de-shelled or 75g edamame beans piece ginger, grated 250g silken tofu SAUCE: 1 tbsp soy sauce 1 tbsp sesame oil tbsp rice vinegar ½ tsp sugar ½ tsp salt Spring onion, chopped (green stalks only) White sesame seeds, roasted Dried seaweed, sliced (optional)
1. In a small pan, heat the sesame oil, then add the edamame and ginger. Pan-fry for 5 minutes till the edamame starts to roast. Use a spatula to loosen the sides of the tofu in the packet, then gently squeeze out and place the whole brick onto a heatproof plate. Sprinkle the edamame and ginger on top and place the plate in a steamer for 10-12 minutes. If you don’t have a steamer, use a large, deep pot with a fitted lid, adding enough water to fill ¼ of the pot. Place a heat proof stand in the bottom of the pot, and place a heatproof plate on top of it. Add tofu, edamame and ginger, cover with a lid, and steam for 10-12 minutes. While tofu is steaming, mix ingredients for the sauce in a bowl. Transfer steamed tofu, edamame and ginger to a serving bowl. Pour sauce over and garnish with chopped spring onion, sesame seeds and sliced seaweed.
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HEALTHY RECIPE 32 Food
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Courtesy of Simran Savlani from A Spark of Madness, this vegan recipe pairs flash-fried edamame with luxurious silken tofu. Serve it as a side dish, or enjoy as a quick meal with a bowl of steamed rice. If you’re craving heat, simply add some chopped green chilies to the sauce! For more recipe ideas, pick up Simran's cookbook, A Spark of Madness, or follow on social media (IG:@asparkofmadness, FB: @cookwithaspark). Serves two.
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INSTRUCTIONS:
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Steamed Tofu withBlistered Edamame
DIFFICULTYLEVEL: Easy TIME 25 minutes TIP: Make it gluten-free by swapping tamari for soy sauce. A SPARK OF MADNESS
S p i c e B o x O r g a n i c s S H O P O N L I N E : s p i c e b o x o r g a n i c s . c o m A L S O O N : 33
THE UP News from the beauty aisle
Likewise, while our cheap n’ cheerful massage joints hit the spot, sometimes we want our spas to feel truly relaxing, minus the fluorescent strip lights and horse-racing on the telly! Luckily, here in Hong Kong, we don’t have to sacrifice a soothing environment in order to find an affordable massage. Here are some of Hong Kong’s most stylish spas that offer a great massage for under $400. Yes, we promise it can be done!
SHHH With outlets in Happy Valley and Kowloon City, Shhh is a lovely neighbourhood spa that combines a tranquil atmosphere with walletfriendly treatments. It offers a curated menu of services, with body treatments starting from $308, and foot massage starting at $238. Packages available for even more savings.
THE SLOW Newly opened in Kennedy Town just before the 5th wave, The Slow offers a simple menu of affordable massage treatments in a minimalist, design-forward setting. Treatments are 45 minutes long and range from a foot massage ($238), to $388 for a hot stone massage. Also offers ear-candling; 20-minute head, neck and shoulder massage; and cupping and scraping.
Shop A, G/F, Luen Gay Apartments, 9 Davis St., Kennedy Town, 93206123 Get a massaG e at these stylish spots for $400 or less.
t hat ' s the r ub
6A Grampian Rd., Kowloon City, 6233-3210; 139 Wong Nai Chung Rd., Happy Valley, 6356-0050
GLOW
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The Slow Zen Massage
Tai Pan Foot Reflexology We love a good massage, but we don’t love regularly straying into four-digit territory for a rubdown!
2501-0002Sun&Moon
SUN & MOON
A long weekend to Thailand might be a stretch at the moment, but Zen Massage offers the next best thing! This Thai-inspired space is decked out in ornate wooden carvings, with royal purple finishings and plenty of under-lighting to ensure the mood stays totally, well, zen. It’s also super affordable, with foot massage starting at $218 for 45 minutes. Thai massage starts at $288 for 45 minutes, and goes up to $468 for 90 minutes, while an aroma oil massage runs from $388-$688.
This long-standing foot massage favourite in Tsim Sha Tsui is decked out like a Shanghainese salon, and we regularly make trips there for their ultra-soothing services, including fully reclining massage beds so you can lie flat during your treatment. A body massage ranges from $348 for 50 minutes to $656 for 100 minutes. But we always go for the 80-minute combo package that includes head, shoulder and foot massage, for $436. Visit before 3pm for early bird savings. Basement, 83 Nathan Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, 2301-1990 ZEN MASSAGE
REFLEXOLOGYFOOT
With locations in Sai Ying Pun and Mong Kok, Sun & Moon is a popular choice for a mid-range massage - we love their bright and breezy Mujiesque design aesthetic, too. Foot massages are $268 for 45 minutes, or $428 for 75 minutes. For body massage, rates start at $328 for 45 minutes of acupressure, going up to $768 for a 90-minute Thai massage. Shop 3, One Artlane, No.8 Chung Ching Street, Sai Ying Pun, 64507659; G/F, Sai Yee Street 203, Mong Kok, 6450-0989 TAI PAN
Flat B, 4/F, Hyde Park Mansion, 53 Paterson St., Causeway Bay,
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A LOOSE LEASH Novice dog owners might think that a sturdy harness is the safest tool, but according to Dalrem, you’re setting yourself up for an endless tug-of-war. “When a dog pulls against you in a harness, it creates what we call an opposition reflex, in which the animal finds reward through pulling, and is motivated to pull harder against you,” he says.
Stick with a simple collar and leash setup - so long as they can’t slip it off their heads. “It’s kinder to the dog to teach them to walk on a loose leash with soft hands, rather than a harness where you have to continually pull and yank to keep the dog with you,” he adds.
Common dog-walking pitfalls, and how to fix them.
LEASHONMEEKA
PAWS FOR THOUGHT with Sarah Fung
Are you walking your dog, or is your dog walking you? Our canine companions need multiple exercise breaks every day, which means it’s crucial to get them to behave when we’re out and about. We speak to Sebe Dalrem, dog trainer and the founder of Project Obedience, for his advice on how to perfect your pup’s leash manners.
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Most importantly, make sure your dog is listening to you; in dog-training circles this is known as recall - the ability to bring your dog back and give you its attention, no matter what it was doing before. “Engagement training is really the basis of obedience training. It’s defined by your dog’s ability to focus on the handler and tune out distractions," he says. "As dog owners, it is our responsibility to educate ourselves and equip ourselves with the tools to handle our dogs safely."
Learn more about Project Obedience projectobedience.comat Sarah Fung is the publisher of Liv Magazine. A recent pet-owner, she's on a mission to learn all she can about caring for animals in Hong Kong. Email her with your pet news at sarah@liv.media.
SLOWLY BUILD UP TO BIGGER ADVENTURES
“In order to get a dog walking on a leash nicely, first you need to teach them that not pulling is the more rewarding behaviour,” he says. Start by walking your dog in a relatively unstimulating environment, such as a carpark, an alleyway, or even in your home, showering your dog with positive enforcement, like praise and food, any time they display the behaviour you want. “Then, you can practice starting, stopping and changing direction to make sure they’re paying attention to you,” he adds.
START WITH BORING WALKS
MICKEY Female, 4 months Mickey suffered a serious injury to one of her paws,
Interested in adopting Mickey? Contact Paws United, puc.org.hk
Looking for a fur-ever friend? We’re working with local animal charities to help find animals a loving home.
“You need to gradually build up your dog’s tolerance for stimuli. For example, if they’re afraid of traffic, don’t go straight out and put it behind a motorbike,” Dalrem says. “Find somewhere that they can observe cars from a safe distance, far from triggering sounds and smells. Once they’ve built up a level of acceptance, you can get a little closer in stages until they’re walking safely on a busy street,” adds Dalrem.
Dalrem recommends a combination of leashtraining, counter-conditioning and desensitisation.
anyperfectwithandplayfuldownthatinunfortunatelywhichresultedamputation.Buthasn’tslowedheratall!Sheisveryandaffectionate,evengetsalongcats.Shewouldbeforjustabouttypeoffamily.
MAKE SURE THEY COME BACK TO YOU
JARED Male, 1 year Jared is a very friendly boy! He’s well-socialised and comfortable around people and dogs. He's medium-sized (16 kilos) and an easy-going pup in general. Jared would make a perfect addition for anyone who is looking for a playful and active dog. Interested in adopting Jared? Contact Hong Kong Dog hongkongdogrescue.comRescue,
ADOPTIONCORNER
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