Liv Magazine January 2017

FITNESS

NUTRITION

WELLBEING

TRAVEL

E CO

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FREE

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

Meet the Innovators Healthy inventions developed right here in Hong Kong

Kung Hei Fat Choi!

Tooth-friendly swaps for new year treats

Ready, Set, Glow!

Our new pamper column launches

Well in Macau

The green guide to our sister SAR

The Veggie Gourmet

A seven-course plant-based feast?

Yes please!

The

Future of Fitness

The latest trends that will be keeping you healthy in 2017 WIN gym memberships, organic wine, coconut treats and more on page 18!

Sponsored Feature

Community Cancer Care Hong Kong Adventist Hospital Foundation treats underprivileged cancer patients with cutting-edge technology

C

ancer is a devastating illness that affects millions of people all over the world. The pain and disruption it causes to the lives of sufferers and their loved ones can be overwhelmingly stressful.

Treatment programs can be long and tough, and medical expenses can be a devastating financial burden for low-income families.

For this reason, the Cancer Fund of the Hong Kong Adventist Hospital Foundation was established in March 2007 to care for and alleviate the pressures faced by underprivileged cancer patients.

Early detection and treatment are vital when it comes to saving lives. The Fund provides PET/CT scans to patients in need, which helps with early diagnosis and can accurately determine the spread of cancer in the body. Since 2013, it has been providing TomoTherapy treatment to cancer patients in need at the Hong Kong Adventist Oncology Centre. This radiation therapy allows for a very precise targeting of tumours while ensuring the safeguarding of normal tissue.

Sponsored Feature

Dr. Stephen Law. Chairman, Cancer Fund of Hong Kong Adventist Hospital Foundation and Clinical Director of Hong Kong Adventist Oncology Center.

PROGRAM DETAILS: Cancer Fund Charity Program TomoTherapy is an image-guided radation therapy system that accurately locates tumours and adjusts the dose of radiation accordingly to minimise harm to neighbouring tissues. The Cancer Fund Charity Program will provide TomoTherapy treatment to 20 cancer patients referred by the Hospital Authority.

Scan program for children Hong Kong Adventist Hospital Foundation provides MRI, PET/CT and CT scans to underprivileged pediatric cancer patients referred

by Queen Mary Hospital.

ABOUT HONG KONG ADVENTIST HOSPITAL FOUNDATION Hong Kong Adventist Hospital Foundation was established in 1999 by Hong Kong Adventist Hospital - Stubbs Road with the aim of providing timely medical treatment to sick and underprivileged children in Hong Kong, Mainland China and Asia through its Heart, Hearing, Medical and Orthopaedic Funds.

The Foundation also helps adults and the elderly through its Cancer Fund, Eye Fund and General Medical Fund. In 2010, it expanded its charitable work to Nepal where it provides otological services for local children and adults.

ANUARY 07 Editor’s Letter

LIV | NEWS 08 It’s a Date

Events for your diary

10 Hot Right Now

New happenings on the wellness scene

12 Fresh Cuts

Dining news that’s good for you

14 Cheat Day

Because #YOLO

16 Reviews

We review the Pinnacle Eat meal delivery service

LIV | STORIES 20 Trend Watch

How we’ll be eating, drinking and exercising in 2017

26 Start Me Up

Meet four local crowdfunding projects that deserve your dollars

LIV | MORE 30 Boxing Day

Healthy swaps for your Chinese New Year chuen hups

32 Recipe

30

Cauliflower hummus from Tivo’s superfood menu

34 Pamper

Ready Set Glow: it's our new beauty column!

36 Travel

A healthy guide to Macau

44 Family

Cardboard toys that are totally out of the box

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50 How I Liv

Jo Soo-Tang, philanthropist and healthpreneur

44 10

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Sponsored Feature

Breakthrough On Varicose Veins Unsightly, uncomfortable and definitely unwanted – varicose veins are surprisingly commonplace, and yet these seemingly benign swellings are so much more than just a cosmetic concern.

F

ound mostly in the legs due to the combination of our upright posture and gravity, varicose veins are immediately recognisable by their raised, bulging appearance. This is due to excess blood that stagnates in the vein when valves within the leg fail, gradually causing the surrounding area to swell.

Although the condition is most commonly found in pregnant women and people who stand all day at work – for example chefs or teachers – varicose veins can affect almost anyone, resulting in symptoms such as leg heaviness, fatigue, calf pain, swelling, muscle cramps at night, eczema, pigmentation changes, skin hardening and even bleeding and ulceration if left untreated.

Traditional treatment of varicose veins typically includes the manual removal, or surgical “stripping” of the affected veins, and, while this is effective, the procedure usually requires a hospital stay, significant downtime for recovery and results in extensive shortterm bruising and pain. Happily for busy Hong Kongers who have better things to be doing with their time than sitting still, there’s a new and improved technique to rid you of your varicose veins forever, without the associated hassle and discomfort.

Specialist in General Surgery Dr. Renny Yien of Matilda International Hospital explains why many doctors are now reaching for the lasers when it comes to varicose vein treatment, “Known as an endovenous procedure, the use of ultrasound-guided laser is now considered to be the gold standard in varicose vein treatment”. He continues, “The benefits of this type of treatment are numerous, and include the ability to complete the procedure as a day surgery, minimal pain and scarring and a higher treatment success rate, with a lower recurrence of symptoms when compared with open surgery”.

The procedure also benefits from a faster recovery time – usually around one week – with the most inconvenient consideration being the need to wear surgical stockings while healing. As patients find this a little warm in Hong Kong’s sub-tropical climate, many will opt to undergo the procedure during the cooler months, ensuring their recovery is long complete by leg-baring season.

Dr Yien suggests that anyone concerned about their varicose veins start with a visit to their doctor, who can then make referrals for further investigation where appropriate, “Patients should seek advice from a surgeon, who can diagnose the condition using duplex ultrasound. This is an essential investigation to determine if, and how, any problem veins should be treated.”

For more information and to book a consultation with a specialist, contact Matilda International Hospital’s Outpatient Department at 2849 1500 or 2849 1515, or email opd@matilda.org

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EDITOR’S LETTER

WELCOME, 2017!

It’s a new year, which means we’re all looking for the latest fitness fads to help us kick-start those resolutions. What new and exciting ways will Hongkongers be getting fit and staying well this year? Our cover story (p.20) identifies trends that are here, trends that are on the horizon, and trends that are yet to come. Which ones will stand the test of time, and which ones (hello, TaeBo) will fall by the wayside? Only time will tell.

Elsewhere in this issue, we’ve got some really cool healthy inventions by talented homegrown designers (p.26). From an air purifier the size of a coffee cup to an epic, multi-pocketed bag of any sport-players dreams, these crowdfunded projects are well on the way to international success.

Chinese New Year is around the corner, which means that aunties will be thrusting sweets and chocolates under your nose like there’s no tomorrow. While we all love a butter cookie, you might be interested in some healthier swaps, which is why we’ve found some healthy CNY snacks that are worthy of your “chuen hup” candy box (p.30).

Heading to Macau for a flutter any time soon? Give the casino restaurants a miss and try some of the organic, vegan hangouts in our sister SAR - believe it or not, there’s quite a scene there! We’ve got more info on p.36.

Have a very healthy new year!

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS

Trend-seeker Kate Springer learns all about the latest health fads you need on your radar on p.20.

Our family columnist Kate Farr has the deets on a fun family race, as well as some nifty (and recyclable) cardboard toys, p.44.

Sherry Chou seeks out the most exciting crowdfunding projects in Hong Kong, and shows you how to get involved on p.26.

Our new columnist Rachel Read has the best job in town: bringing you the latest spa and skincare news! p.34.

Macau expert Sally Victoria Benson is the publisher of Lifestyle Macau. She walks us through the city’s healthist spots, p.36.

SARAH FUNG PUBLISHER

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Send invites and info to: Makerhive, 10/F, Cheung Hing Industrial Building, 12P Smithfield, Kennedy Town PUBLISHER SARAH FUNG SALES MANAGER AILEEN CHAN BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT STACEY MARCELO ADMINISTRATOR JASMIN BLUNCK GRAPHIC DESIGN TAMMY TAN, CONTRIBUTORS KATE FARR, KATE SPRINGER, SHERRY CHOU, RACHEL READ, SALLY VICTORIA BENSON, DEIRDRE GRIFFIN PRINTED BY GEAR PRINTING LIMITED, ROOM B, 3/F, DERRICK INDUSTRIAL BUILDING, 49-51 WONG CHUK HANG ROAD, ABERDEEN ‘‘Liv Magazine’’ Copyright 2017 Liv Media Limited. The content provided here is the property of Liv Media Limited and may not be reproduced in any part without the written permission of the Publisher. The information provided by Liv Media Limited’s contributors do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or the company. The information provided by Liv Media Limited, or its staff, advertisers and contributors is given in good faith; readers should gather more information before making the decision to purchase any goods or services highlighted here. Liv Media Limited will not be held responsible for any action, omission or error resulting from actions taken on the basis of the information provided here. Please seek the approval of a doctor before following any health advice.

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Calendar

IT’S A DATE

JAN 13

WHAT A PICKLE

Picklers, hold onto your knickers!

Fermentation expert Sandor Katz (above, centre) will be holding a one-off seminar for home fermenters at the Mandarin Oriental this month. Described by the New York Times as “an unlikely rock star of the American food scene,” this multi-award winning professional pickle-maker and bestselling author has been leading a fermentation revival in the US and has recently been traveling through China to discover the country’s ancient fermentation techniques. The seminar includes a lecture, fermentation demonstration, Q&A session, fermented snacks prepared by Mandarin Oriental chefs, fermented drinks prepared by Lantaumama and a signed copy of Katz’s new "Wild Fermentation" book. $2,000. 2:30-5:30pm, The Mandarin Oriental, 5 Connaught Rd., Central.

Sign up at tiny.cc/sandorkatzhk.

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JAN 22

MAT FINISH

Do your good deed for the month by participating in Kindness Mats 2.0, a charitable initiative that has volunteers weave mats and pillows for Hong Kong’s homeless out of plastic bags. The bags are durable, rain-proof and can provide a comfortable base to sit or lie on. There's lunch and beers for volunteers, and a minimum donation of $20 is requested so organisers can provide laundry and meals for the beneficiaries. Co-hosted by ImpactHK, Canadians in Hong Kong and the Zero Waste Challenge.

11am-5pm, theDesk, 511 Queen’s Rd. West, Shek Tong Tsui.

Learn more at facebook.com/impacthkcharity.

Calendar

JAN 20

THE FUTURE OF HEALTH

Interested in what technology might be able to do for our health? Visit HealthTech Asia 2017, a one-day seminar featuring speakers, showcases and pitches from leaders and innovators in health tech.

Tickets $550-$950 from eventbrite. Qube, 2/F, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen St., Central. www.healthtechasia.com

JAN 22

RUN IN THE SUN

The first Sun Life Resolution Run is taking place at the Hong Kong Science Park. A fun run suitable for the whole family, you can pick between a 10k, 5k and 3k race, or if you have kids, the 1k event.

In addition to the race there’ll be a carnival with game booths, face painters and mascots for photo opps. Registration is open up until the week before the race.

Race entry: $250 for all categories; $200 per team of two for the family race. First race: 9am. Pak Shek Kok Promenade Park, Hong Kong Science Park, Sha Tin. Race details and info at sunrun.sunlife.com.hk.

JAN 21

WHO RUN THE WORLD? JAN 28

KUNG HEI FAT CHOI!

It’s Chinese New Year, which means a nice long holiday! If you’re in town, soak up the festive atmosphere and ring in the Year of the Rooster by checking out the Chinese New Year parade in TST on January 28 from 8-9:45pm.

Find out what else is happening over the holiday at www.discoverhongkong.com.

Here’s a unique event for you: Lantau Base Camp has put together a Ladies’ Run & Hike - no boys allowed! The event, benefitting the Hong Kong Cancer Fund, aims to get more women out on the trails. It takes you on a run (or hike, if you prefer) on a route of either 11 or 20 kilometres on the trails around Mui Wo. The maximum number of signups is 400 so move quickly if you want to bag a spot. $350. 9am-2pm, Start point: China Bear, Mui Wo. Find more info and register at events.lantaubasecamp.com.

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Cool Stuff

HOT RIGHT NOW News from the wellness scene

Strike a Pose

A brand-new studio is opening up in the seriously chillaxed PoHo neighbourhood.

Kita Yoga is a petite, sun-drenched space with small class sizes (12 max) and a breezy vibe. Think potted plants, a communal space to hang out with tea and healthy snacks before and after class and gorgeous aromatherapy oils burning throughout the day.

There will also be a regular roster of free community classes, events and wellness talks.

There will be a “hangover� class on Sunday mornings - a slow flow practice featuring lots of detoxifying twists, with a healthy and hydrating tonic at the end. The studio is the brainchild of Nikita Ramchandani, a former banker-turned-yogi who will also be teaching at the studio. Classes are $300 drop-in, with packages available, going up to $20,000 for a year of unlimited classes.

Flat 1A, 1 U Lam Terrace, Sheung Wan, www.kita-yoga.com.

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Cool Stuff

So Metal

We’re all trying to do our part to stop our oceans being overrun with plastic, and one easy way to do this is to cut down on our excessive use of straws. But you can have the best of both worlds with Chazi, a homegrown brand that is bringing stainless steel reusable straws to Hong Kong. Each $45 set comes with a straight straw, a curved straw and a pipe cleaner so you can wash out your straw at home. Buy direct from the website, or visit their retail outlets and pick them up in person.

Outlets include SFS Cafe, 14 St. Francis St., Wan Chai.

Visit chazi.hk to learn more.

A State of Floax

She’s The Business

Yes, the impossible has happened - mid-priced athletic wear with real style chops is now available in Hong Kong!

Thank She Collective, a website dedicated to sourcing the coolest athleisure brands from all over the world. Set up by two young fitpreneurs with backgrounds in accounting and fashion, She Collective handpicks statement pieces from niche brands such as the dreamy screen printed leggings from Canadian brand Inner Fire, statement sports bras with beautiful backs from Onzie and beautiful compression wear from Aussie brand Stryda. Prices vary, but you can find leggings for less than $600 and sports bras from $490. If you’re anything like us and can’t coordinate your workout look to save your life, you’ll find inspiration in She Collective’s “Have You Tried” section, which shows you how to combine individual pieces so you look put together but not over-coordinated.

The float tank trend has spread to Kowloon side, with new floatation spa Floax opening just off Granville Road. This tranquil space has been open for a couple of months, and offers a much-needed dose of calm amid the frenetic pace of TST. There are three individual float rooms, each equipped with their own shower, as well as a spacious lounge area where you can sit and relax before and after your session. The team behind Floax set up the spa with the aim of teaching Hongkongers the art of relaxation, taking time for yourself and calming a busy mind.

1/F, Wing Hing Mansion,16 Granville Circuit, Tsim Sha Tsui, 2321-9624, www.floax.com.hk.

www.shecollective.hk.

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Dining

FRESH CUTS Dining news that’s good for you

THE GREEN GOURMET The vegetarian fine-dining scene might be somewhat nascent (read: nonexistent) in Hong Kong, but Michelin star-spangled restaurant Arcane is set to change all that with its vegetarian tasting menu, which is available every Monday starting January.

With no meat served at all during the dinner service, this set dinner aims to show that forgoing animal protein doesn’t have to be boring or lacking flavour.

Think Japanese winter tomato with spiced aubergine to start, followed by beetroot with pickled black radish, horseradish chantilly and wasabi leaves.

For something richer, there’s a poached taiyouran egg with broccolini, chanterelles and black truffle, followed by the warm cauliflower and watercress salad with toasted macadamia and argan oil, and the butternut squash ravioli. Don’t miss the dessert of Japanese strawberries with rhubarb, vanilla ice cream and muscat grape consomme. The seven-course menu is $750 per head, and if you’re doing Drynuary, there are delicious mocktails and juice to pair it with too.

3/F, 18 On Lan Street, Central, 2728-0178, www.arcane.hk.

CALIFORNIA EATIN’ The newest restaurant by Jia Group, The Commissary is a Southern California-inspired hotspot in Pacific Place that offers Americanstyle comfort food with one eye turned toward health-conscious options. Think fish tacos with green goddess sauce and house-pickled coleslaw, kale and roasted pumpkin salad with tahini dressing, tuna poke tostada and seabass with tomato mole and greens. Be sure to check out their lovely outdoor terrace, which comes complete with potted plants and atmospheric lights for a garden party vibe.

Shop 405, Level 4, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, 2602-0707, www.commissary.hk.

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Dining

WHAT DO HEALTHY PEOPLE EAT? Emil Cheung, NBA commentator, certified trainer and basketball coach

GIVE IT 100 Healthy Korean-style home cooking has arrived in SoHo! Taking up the storefront where El Taco Loco used to be, Ms.Hundred offers boxed salads to go starting at $88, which combine healthy ingredients such as kale and quinoa salad with traditional Korean flavours. Gym-goers will be excited to add protein in the form of beef or Korean-style omelette to their boxes, while a serving of kimchi will keep that gut bacteria happy. Also offers nourishing soups made with ginseng, chicken and Korean herbs.

L/G, 7 Staunton St., Central, 2204-5100, www.facebook.com/ ms100kitchen.

When was the last time you What do you usually have ate McDonalds? for breakfast?

Organic multigrain cereal, fruit and A month ago. I was in a rush so I had to order a Filet O Fish and scrambled eggs. I’m sponsored by a McChicken burger. I enjoyed Rude Health so I generally eat it because I hadn’t had it in their cereals. a while. That’s why they’re What’s your main protein source? cheat meals - they make a I’m a big meat eater. Meat in Hong stressed-out person happier.

Kong is more expensive than it is in the States, but I can’t live without chicken or beef.

What are your favourite restaurants when eating out?

I often go to Cova, or Amigo in Happy Valley. Lau Yuen is an excellent Shanghainese restaurant.

What do you eat on cheat day?

Ice cream, for something sweet.

Elephant Grounds is the best in Hong Kong for sure.

What do you eat before and after exercising?

I can’t work out on an empty stomach. I usually drink some blended cereals mixed with milk, blueberries and banana. For afternoon workouts I need carbs before I exercise.

Have you ever done a cleanse?

No, but I want to.

When were you at your least healthy?

When I gained the Freshman 20!

I put on 20 pounds in my first year of college. I ate so much fast food.

I am very careful with my diet now, but I do have some cheat days, particularly when I am stressed with work.

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Dining

CHEAT DAY

Because life’s too short to always order the salad

DONUT DENY US The lack of decent donuts has long been a sore spot for the sugaraddicted among us, but J.CO Donuts, opening on Hennessey Road in Wan Chai, is set to resolve this problem once and for all. Originally from Indonesia, this donut and coffee joint is immensely popular in Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines, where it’s known for its great coffee as well quality ingredients, buttery taste and quirky flavours. Think the White Desert, filled with kaya and topped with coconut flakes; the Avocado Dicaprio, filled with avocado and topped with chocolate crunch; or the strawberry and cream cheese Berry Spears.

The donuts are $15 each, $88 for six or $148 for 12. G/F, 55 Hennessy Rd., Wan Chai, 6982-8282, www.jcodonuts.com/hk.

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Sponsored Feature

PERFECT TIMING

A bright smile for the new year

An attractive bright smile can have a far greater effect on your life than you might realise. Researches show that whiter teeth can be a key factor in successfully getting a new job or a first date, as it makes you look more successful, employable, attractive and even five years younger. So if you haven’t already made a New Year’s resolution, why not make one that you can smile about? We all have had good food and drinks during the end of the year parties, and might have neglected a bit of our dental hygiene. It is now the perfect timing to get your pearly white, just before CNY and most importantly, before Valentine’s day.

Beauty is power; A smile is its sword.

John Ray Located in Central, Smile Center offers cosmetic teeth whitening treatments to recover the whiteness of your teeth. The trendy atmosphere is worlds away from the scary dentist’s chair, so just relax in their spacious centre and be ready to get a sparkling smile. It’s a totally safe and painless process that uses peroxide-free products, so there will be no side effects (like tooth sensitivity or gum sore). Up to 10 shades whiter can be expected in less than an hour.

Want more? Smile Center offers a special promotion for Liv Magazine’s readers for the upcoming Valentine’s day. Book your appointment with the person of your choice and get 40% discount on the Premium treatment. Simply book your appointment by phone or through their online booking platform, and mention Valentine’s Promotion to enjoy this very special price. This offer is valid until the end of February 2017.

Smile Center, 17/F, 1 Lan Kwai Fong, Central, 2110-9757, www.smile-center.com

Reviews

TEST-DRIVE

Liv checks out the newest workouts and wellness trends

FOOD

Meal Program with Pinnacle Eat The Buzz: A new contender enters the competitive world of meal delivery programs: Pinnacle Performance gym now offers Pinnacle Eat meals delivered straight to your door, all calorie-controlled and a perfect balance of protein, carbs and fat.

The Experience Your lunch and dinner arrives freshly cooked at your door midmorning each day, so all you have to do is reheat. The meals are seasonal with a variety of flavours such as coconut milk white fish, finger licking spicy chicken wings and even minted lamb.

The Verdict. We loved the peace of mind knowing that we were having an organic, nutritionally-balanced meal, with good fats and no rubbish. The meals are also packed

with flavour so you don’t feel as though you’re missing out - we didn’t even reach for our daily snacks, even though each meal was just 600 calories (men’s meals are 750 calories). If you want to kick-start your healthy eating resolution, this will take out all the guesswork for you and leave you feeling nourished, not deprived.

The Cost: Pinnacle has three packages available, with prices starting at $2,495 for 20 meals (around $120 each). There is an add-on if you want fortnightly consultations and full nutritional counselling with support to reach your health goals. pinnacleperformance.hk.

SPA

Chi Mineral Therapy at the Four Seasons Spa

The Buzz: The Four Seasons spa’s Chi Mineral Therapy treatment, is designed to replenish the minerals lost through stress or exercise.

It’s suited to endurance athletes who have just completed a run or competition. We booked ourselves in shortly after completing Barclays Moontrekker.

The Spa: The private treatment room

was spacious and fresh, with a large window looking out onto a garden, and a small adjoining steam room.

Make a day of it by lounging in the vitality pool, steam room and sauna before and after your treatment.

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The Treatment: After a foot bath you are led to a dimly-lit steam room, where warm, mineral-rich Dead Sea mud is slathered onto the skin and firmly massaged into aching muscles as you lie on a warm marble table.

We found this process especially effective on the legs, where radiated heat helped relieve painful joints.

Then, you are wrapped in cloths scented with cinnamon and clove and left to breathe in the warming fragrance. After showering away the mud, you return for a deep tissue oil massage. Our masseuse knew exactly where our aches and knots were, and we felt the sore sinews unwind under

the soothing pressure of her palms.

Finally, a mask of aloe vera is applied to the face, where it melts into the skin, leaving it noticeably more plump and radiant.

Verdict: After the big race, our

muscles were scorched and tender.

This treatment ironed out those aches and left us floating on air.

It was the ultimate treat after a major physical achievement.

Price: Monday-Thursday: $4,000; Friday-Sunday: $4,500.

Address: Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, 8 Finance St, Central, 3196-8888, www. fourseasons.com.

newsletter@liv-magazine.com

WIN: A Power Pack from Pure

GIVEAWAYS visit liv-magazine.com/giveaways

WIN: A one-month wine subscription from Simply Wine

Kickstart your New Year’s for a chance to win!

Resolutions with the Power Pack, Simply Wine specialises in a month-long, all-access Pure natural, organic, biodynamic contract, which grants you access to and low-sulphite wines, which all of Pure Fitness’s gyms and Pure Yoga use natural production methods. studios in Hong Kong. It also comes with a They’re also free from hangover-causing $200 voucher for nood food, two guest passes for additives. To celebrate the launch of its “wine your friends, and a 10 percent off voucher for active of the month” club, we’ve got two sets of six bottles wear at Pure Apparel. The set is currently being sold three reds and three whites - up for grabs, for $1,288; we’ve got a Power Pack to give away to worth $998. one lucky winner. The packs are available online until simplywines.com.hk. the end of January, and must be activated before February 28. pure-yoga.com, pure-fitness.com.

WIN: A bundle of goodies from Coco Paradise

WIN: A set of clothing care products from The Closeteur

Newly launched snack company Coco Paradise creates healthy bites made out of coconuts. Treats include bars, jerky and coconut water, all handmade and free from refined sugar, butter, egg or artificial flavours. We have four sampler packs to give away, which include two coconut cashew bars, two coconut sesame bars, two coconut matcha bars and a pack of coconut jerky, all presented in a drawstring bag.

Each pack is worth $280.

Shop for pre-loved fashion at new online marketplace The Closetueur to help save our landfills and contribute to a circular economy. To celebrate its launch, it’s offering a gift set comprising one all-natural denim refresh spray and one leather cleaner spray from premium clothing care brand Mr. Black, with a total value of $273. We’ve got two sets to give away. www.thecloseteur.com.

cocoparadise.com.

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Enter at liv-magazine.com/giveaways by January 28 to win!

Cover Story

Quinoa? Oh-vah. Green juice? Snooze. Here are the health trends that’ll be shaking up Hong Kong this year. By Kate Springer.

Hea lthy B oo zin g If you’re constantly battling an overactive social calendar, you can now look forward to a healthier alternative on your nights out.

A couple of years ago, Topiary cocktail bar in Central introduced the concept of “Shim’ cocktails,” which have a lower alcohol content than your average tipple.

The idea of “healthy” cocktails - lower sugar, lower alcohol and infused with healthy ingredients - will be big news this year. Belvedere Vodka recently launched an all-natural Belvedere Spritz Collection, and rumour has it that there’s a coconut water vodka coming soon to Hong Kong.

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Maximal Concepts restaurants are on board too, serving a “Kale & Coriander” margarita at Limewood, a delicious “Farmhouse Jam” made with blueberry and thyme at Fish & Meat, and a refreshing “Kiwi Vodka Sake” at Mercedes Me. “We introduced healthy cocktails to give people more options,” says Maximal Concepts mixologist Lok Gurung. “Next year, we expect to see bars catering more to lifestyle habits using more superfoods, organic ingredients, and lower calorie drinks.”

Cover Story

Vega n 2.0 PSA: An all-veggie diet is now a life choice to be celebrated. The latest push for plant-based dishes has resulted in incredibly diverse and flavourful meals with an innovative edge.

Grassroots Pantry has long been a go-to favourite for healthy vegetarian cuisine, and chef Peggy Chan recently took it up a notch with a new 98 percent vegan menu. The new dishes eschew dairy, instead celebrating superfood ingredients such as coconut yogurt, almond milk, kefir, kelp, miso, matcha and maca.

“How does one make bone broth without any bones? We’ve slow stewed a brown stock with chickpea miso, homemade sambal and organic local soy milk for over three hours on the stove,” explains

Chan. “That savouriness is incredibly satiating on a cold winter’s day!”

Meanwhile, Red Bar + Restaurant at IFC Mall introduced a “Garden Menu” that’s chock-full of vegan choices. “The vegan dishes are mostly raw, which can help maintain the optimal nutritional benefits of each ingredient,” says Red Bar’s raw food chef Moises Mehl.

Cooking at home? The folks behind Green Monday social enterprise opened Green Common, a grocery store dedicated to 100 percent plant-based products. The group aims to bring sustainable, lowcarbon, plant-based products to the mainstream.

Str o n gm an Tr a i n i n g There’s something about flipping tires and pushing heavy sleds that’s immensely satisfying. Focusing on primal movements - bending, twisting squatting, pushing and pulling - Strongman workouts improve strength, flexibility and posture.

Strongman pioneer URSUS Fitness started its Bear Camp on Lamma island a couple of years ago, followed by a brick-and-mortar gym in Sai Ying Pun that opened last October. A testament to the programme’s popularity, URSUS Fitness recently took over another 280-square-metre space next door to expand its capacity.

“We use tires and logs, yokes and beer kegs - it’s not fancy equipment but it’s a much more functional way of training,” says Gary Manwaring, founder of URUS. “More than half of the participants in our Strongman group classes are women - you don’t have to be a 120-kilo guy to benefit from the workout.”

Pure Fitness has also ramped up its Strongman offerings with expanded workout areas, a growing team of trainers and an assortment of weighted toys to grip, drag, push and pull.

Need a primer? Those who are totally new to weightlifting will find a modified version of Strongman training at Warrior Academy in Sai Ying Pun. “Anyone wanting to train Strongman should be experienced with conventional weight lifting,” says Tricia Yap, Warrior Academy co-founder.

“There is a high risk of injury to the lower back so it is best to get familiar with the basics before taking part.”

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Cover Story

THE TASTEMAKERS It’s the more the merrier when it comes to these tasty food trends.

CAULIFLOWER CRAZE Cauliflower pizzas, rice substitutes, hummus and puree - we can’t get enough of the humble collie. The overlooked vegetable is back on the radar thanks to its high levels of vitamin C, K, protein, thiamin, niacin, phosphorus, fiber, vitamin B6, potassium and manganese.

Where to find it: Yardbird, Maison Libanaise, Tivo, Eatology, and Open Door Cafe. Check out the recipe for Tivo’s cauliflower hummus on p.32.

A GUT FEELING Said to relieve bloating, heartburn and a host of digestive issues, probiotics good gut bacteria - are showing up in everything from chocolate to trendy water, nut butters and granola bars.

Nutritionists recommend sticking to naturally occurring probiotics whenever possible - like those found in yogurt or kimchi.

Where to find it: Look for kimchi at Dae Bak Korean Supermarket (73 Kimberley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui).

FAT IS BACK Here’s the skinny on fat - it’s now your best friend. Healthy fats from the likes of yogurt, eggs, nut butters, salmon and avocado are thought to boost immune systems, improve digestion, and support weight management.

Where to find it: Reach for avocados and salmon on your next supermarket run. If you need more direction, Eatology offers a “keto” nutrition programme that’s high in fat and low in carbs. The idea is that reducing carb intake will trigger “ketones” - molecules from fatty acids produced by the liver - and lower blood sugar levels to help manage weight.

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F u l l - o n Fe r me n t a t i o n Fermentation may be thousands of years old, but we’re just now seeing house-pickled veggies, sour dough loaves and kvass (a Slavic fermented beverage) taking over menus in Hong Kong.

International fermentation guru Sandor Katz is visiting Hong Kong this month to teach a class in collaboration with Lantaumama. He has also been training the kitchen team at the Mandarin Oriental, showing them how to introduce more fermented foods to diners’ palates. He predicts that next year, home fermenters will be making fruit kvass, a lightly sparkling fermented fruit drink.

“It’s so simple, because it doesn’t require any specialist equipment or a starter [such as kefir grains or a SCOBY]” says Katz. “it’s also extremely fast to make - all you need to do is put some fruit in a jar and shake it a few times a

day.” The end result is a lightly sparkling beverage that’s a perfect tipple for a fledgling fermenter.

A champion of preservation techniques, Conor Beach recently took the helm of newly opened 12,000 Francs bistro in SoHo. Sourcing produce from an organic farm in Tuen Mun, Beach makes almost everything in house - from his fresh sourdough bread to fermented green chili sauces, yogurt, salted kumquats, sauerkraut, and even lactofermented persimmons.

“There are a lot of old cooking processes that we have forgotten and fermentation is one of those,” says Beach. “I ferment foods because they taste good and add an element of acidity to a meal - and it’s fun to experiment and play around.”

Ex p os in g “Fa ke Fo o d ” Decades of globalisation have had some scary sideeffects. With double-digit supply chains, it’s harder than ever for consumers to trace their food. And easier than ever for business to deceive consumers with fraudulent labels.

In the 2016 “Future of Food III” report by CatchOn & Company, researchers say fake food is on the rise.

It encompasses deliberate food fraud, accidentally mislabeled foods, as well as mislabeled food due to lax security or sloppy practices.

“Eighty percent of olive oil is fake, nearly half of tested Manuka honey is fake and more than half of tested fish is not what it is labeled as,” says Catherine Feliciano-Chon, Managing Director of CatchOn & Company.

“We hear stories of silicone-injected shrimp coming from Vietnam or spray-painted vegetables from India. Increased awareness might help with transparency. The more people know; the less dishonest producers can get away with.”

B i odyn a mic Bea uty First beauty products went organic, and now they’re going one step further. This year, expect an uptick in biodynamic beauty products powered by wild-harvested ingredients, sans chemicals and environmental contaminants.

Look for biodynamic beauty in your hair care.

Jean Louis David Hong Kong hair salon in Central just launched a natural hair colouring system called Organic 23. Recommended for sensitive scalps, the formula is made from fruit, veggies, yogurt... and even real chocolate.

Meanwhile, a host of online beauty retailers are getting on board: Urban Greenosophy carries biodynamic brands like Terre Verdi and Living Naturally; Cabanee stocks face masks and lip balms from Bottega Organica; and Gooseberry Beauty sells small-batch, handcrafted products from Fig+Yarrow.

23

Cover Story

Power Powd er s Nope, we’re not talking about tubs of soy protein, though those are also having their own moment.

We’re all about spices with anti-inflammatory properties and immune-boosting powers.

“I have matcha every morning. Because you’re consuming it in powdered form, you’re ingesting the entire green tea leaf, so you get more nutrients - and caffeine - than you would from traditional infused tea,” says Mia Rappaport, founder of RASA nutrition programmes. While we know it’s always best to eat your nutrients, it’s still fun to experiment with spices and powders.

Try sprinkling turmeric on lemon water to fight inflammation, adding reishi mushrooms to hot chocolate for immune support, or cayenne powder onto your eggs to boost metabolism.

The Yoga Room Lucky Draw worth over 3,000HKD Win a 2 hour+ Spa Treatment at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong The lucky winner will be revealed on February 28th 2017 Enjoy a 90-minute body massage and 30-minute body polish as well as a Bathhouse Booster therapy with a glass of champagne at the Four Seasons Hotel Spa suite room.

To be part of The Yoga Room’s Lucky Draw: • For new members: Join a free trial between January 1st and February 22nd 2017 • For existing members: Renew your package between January 1st and February 22nd 2017 See our website www.yogaroomhk.com for terms and conditions

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P l a st i c Fa sh i o n Eco-friendly fashion is on the rise - and we hope this trend sticks. Adidas recently announced its “Parley for the Oceans” sneakers, which are spun from plastic collected off the Maldives and made using 3D printing technology. Pharrell Williams also jumped on the trash-to-trend fad with his plastic-fuelled fashion line Bionic Yarn.

The superstars join boutique brands like Wathaa beachwear, FINCH Swim, and Hong Kong-based RUMI X athletic wear. A pioneer in this space, RUMI X uses plastic and recycled coffee grounds to make its yoga leggings.

“People now are more conscious about their environment and aware of the impact they can make,” says RUMI X founder Melissa Chu. “It’s a matter of understanding that we make conscious choices about our lifestyles.”

Cover Story

LOOKING AHEAD...

Need a Park Prescription?

You don’t need a PhD to know that nature-based activities are good for the soul. But in years to come, we may see a rise in “ecotherapy.” It’s a psychological practice that prescribes outdoor activities - like listening to birdsong, sitting outdoors sans cell phone, or starting a garden - to calm the mind, shift thinking and elevate your mood.

Daytime Dancing We love shaking our thang, but sometimes bed calls out to us more than the dance floor. That’s why booze-free daytime dance clubs have been springing up all over Hong Kong, from NYC-based Daybreakers’ big event with Calvin Klein last year, to First Light’s regular dance parties, and the Jou Sun Sessions, which are held outdoors.

Will busting sick moves at 9am on a Sunday catch on in Hong Kong this year?

Watch this space…

Trends we’re not ready for Cockroach milk The high-protein secretions of the Pacific cockroach is being touted as the next superfood. Yuck. Pass.

Athleisure at Work Not if you want to score that CNY bonus. However if you work in media, athleisure is basically “business casual.”

Sage Smudging Coming to a hipster housewarming near you.

Gut bacteria analysis You have to put that swab WHERE now?

Skin SOS treatment for Acne (2) - HIFU Sagging skin can give you tired-looking eyes and distort the contours of your lower jaw, chin and neck.

How can you tighten the skin around your face and improve the condition of your skin without going under the knife? High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) offers a non-surgical alternative to a neck and face lift. Specially trained doctors also use HIFU to treat acne and improve the appearance of scar tissue.

HIFU is the only FDA-approved non-invasive procedure that targets the deeper layers of the skin.

Ultrasound imaging allows doctors to locate the precise layers of tissue and ensure the energy is Call our 24-hour hotline:

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directed to where it will be most effective.

Collagen production increases and skin will begin to lift and tone.

With no downtime, you will be able to go back to your everyday activities immediately and there’s no aftercare routine either.

Patients undergoing HIFU treatment can expect to see fresh collagen produced up to two years after the treatment, depending on the condition of the skin. Most patients only need one treatment, though some may benefit from more sessions.

Email info@emchk.com

www.emchk.com

The Hong Kong Emergency Medicine Centre is accredited by the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH) and the International Society of Travel Medicine (ISTM)

25

Innovations

Meet the health-conscious innovations that are being brought to life, thanks to the power of crowdfunding. By Sherry Chou.

1

2 26

Home Gym of The Future

F

itness equipment has gotten smarter with Move It. This training equipment set - including an ab wheel, resistance band, push-up grips and jump rope - all comes with smart modular handles that ensure you have the right form and range of motion. Once connected, you are able to receive immediate visual feedback, count reps, track calories and even recieve training programs via the app. Designed by a local trio made up of a software engineer, tech sales insider and a biotechnology researcher, you can be sure they’ve got the technical know-how to come up with the goods.

With Move It’s social features, you can keep motivated with a gym buddy without having to leave your home.

You can even see who else is using the equipment at the same time and follow their training progress. Got a competitive streak? Grab some friends and compete against other teams using interactive game mechanics. Move It has successfully raised more than US$115,000 on Indiegogo - that’s 366 percent of its fundraising goal. Pre-order yours at move-it.club for US$349.

Bag One

O

riginally designed for Ultimate Frisbee players (yes, there’s a big scene here), the Greatest Ultimate Bag offers a 60-litre capacity and a ton of functions and cool compartments you won’t find in other sports bags.

Described as “The Swiss Army Knife of Ultimate bags,” it’s made with waterproof materials and features a rain flap for extra protection.

The convertible duffel-slashbackpack has a designated place for just about everything: a ventilated compartment for your smelly socks and wet clothes, a smaller section for

3 Sound Asleep

B

esides being supremely annoying for whoever you’re sleeping next to, snoring is bad news for your health. Severe snoring can lead to reduced oxygen levels, headaches, interrupted sleep and, in severe cases, sleep apnea. Somnova is the world’s first anti-snoring mat that inflates slowly to gently nudge the sleeper back onto their side. The movement is so gentle that you barely notice it, and is definitely a step up from the old “tennis ball under your back” trick.

What’s more, the mat comes with an app that will give you insights into your snoring patterns, as well as health tips and recommendations on how to prevent snoring. It’s also light and compact, meaning that you can take it with you on the road.

Somnova has already raised more than HK$100,000 on Kickstarter - that’s 140 percent of its fundraising target. Buy yours online for US$149 at somnova.com.

Hong Kong buyers will get free delivery from now until January 31.

your shades, a protective pocket for your smart phone, an insulated cooler compartment for your cold drinks, and a shoe compartment for dirty boots.

The bag was designed by four local Ultimate players who were sick of toting around their gear in messy, cavernous carryalls. The bags have proven so practical that they’ve been taken on camping trips and backpacking holidays too.

Amazingly, Greatest Bag has successfully raised more than US$100,000 on Indiegogo and the first round of production has already commenced. If you want a bag of your own, you can get one by pledging US$99 on indiegogo.com.

27

Innovations

4

presents

Get a

!

7 1 0 2 in fresh start

Make your life easier with the Lunette menstrual cup, the future of feminine protection!

Just fold, insert like a tampon, and let it do its thing!

Lunette collects fluids rather than absorbing them, keeping your superior interior naturally lubricated and healthy. You empty it rather than change it, wash it, and reuse it.

Leak proof Easy to use Soft & comfortable Hygienic & safe - no yeast, bacteria, or odors  Change only 2-4 times a day

   

Available for purchase at Golden Tree ($340) No. 81 First Street, Sai Ying Pun www.goldentree.com.hk As seen in: Want to know more about menstrual cups?

Get in touch with Anna Jade www.annajade.asia

28

 Supports active lifestyles and women on the go  Reusable for up to 10 years  Environmentally friendly  AND saves you money!

Innovations

Clean Air On the Go

P

urify your air with a device the size of a coffee cup: Air Halo is a filterless, cordless mobile air purifier that provides hours of protection on the go. While common filters trap larger microbes and particulates but offer no sanitation effect, Air Halo can blast viruses, fungus, bacteria, airborne germs and VOCs. How can such a little gadget provide so much air purification? Air Halo uses Plascide technology, which was invented by Professor Herman Y. W. Tsui, a research scientist in fusion plasma and an adjunct professor at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. Following the 2003 SARs epidemic, Professor Tsui, with funding from the Hong Kong government, invented Plascide and developed Air Halo, which sanitises cramped urban spaces using intense ionised gas contained within the device.

Air Halo blends in surprisingly well with your everyday environment. It’s designed to fit in a bag or standard cup holder for travel, and with its universal USB charger you can give it a boost with an AC adaptor, computer or with external batteries. You can even switch between Normal and Boost mode for demanding situations.

Air Halo has successfully raised more than US$56,000 on Indiegogo and the first batch will be delivered in January 2017. Order yours at www.i-saca.com/collections for HK$1,550.

29

Food

Rock the Box

Welcome your Chinese New Year guests with a healthier take on the traditional “chuen hup.”

By Sarah Fung.

“

Chuen hups,” or Chinese candy boxes, are everywhere at Chinese New Year. Filled with sweetmeats, chocolates and candy, these selection boxes are offered to house guests to symbolise a sweet and auspicious start to the new year. But all that sugar ain’t exactly the best for us, which is why we’ve come up with some healthier alternatives.

Instead of Ferrero Rocher, try…

Organic Traditions dark chocolatecovered hazelnuts Gluten- and dairy-free and with no added sugars or sweeteners, these dark chocolate-covered nuts are a healthy alternative to the ubiquitous gold foil-wrapped chocolates. Hazelnuts are rich in vitamin E and are also an excellent source of potassium, calcium and magnesium, and these ones are sourced from an organic family-run farm in Italy. $82 per bag from Food For Life stores citywide, including 7B, Gee Chang Hong Centre, 65 Wong Chuk Hang Rd., Aberdeen, 2833-2932, www. foodforlifehk.com.

30

Instead of nougat, try…

GoodEarth Healthy Treats rose, fig and Aalmond energy bars Your guests will thank you for offering them these tasty bars. Made with almonds, dried fig, saffron, rose extract and topped with dried rose petals, they’re super pretty and really good for you, too. $160 for 20 pieces from www.goodearthhk.com.

Food

Instead of Danish butter cookies, try…

Spicebox Organics ladoos A traditional Indian snack, Spicebox Organics’ version of ladoos are made with chickpea flour, almonds, cashews and ghee, and are sweetened with coconut sugar and jaggery. They’re naturally high in protein and offer an energy boost to get you through the celebrations. $28 for two or $70 for five from Spicebox Organics, 72 Third St., Sai Ying Pun, 2568-2728, spiceboxorganics.com.

Instead of Sugus, try…

Double D Sugar-free candies Sweetned with Stevia, these treats from sugar-free confectionery company Double D are suitable for diabetics, and they're low-GI and tooth-friendly to boot. $20 per pack from Three-Sixty, Shop 1090, 1/F, Elements, 1 Austin Rd. West, West Kowloon, 2196-8066, www.threesixtyhk.com.

Instead of traditional dried coconut, try....

FoodCraft raw coconut crisps Shredded coconut is a chuen hup fixture, but the traditional variety is tooth-achingly sweet.

The raw organic coconut crisps from FoodCraft are flavoured with cinnamon and matcha for a crunchy, healthy snack. $48 from foodcraft.hk, or at health food stores citywide.

Instead of winter melon seeds, try...

Superfood Lab sunflower seeds While winter melon seeds are commonly used in Chinese medicine, the black, salty variety served during Chinese New Year are high in sodium. So why not swap them out with raw sunflower seeds? Rich in protein, magnesium and iron, these tasty morsels also come pre-shelled, so you don’t have to wreck your teeth opening them. $23.50 from Great Food Hall Basement, Two Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty, 2918-9986, www.greatfoodhall.com.

31

Food

HEALTHY RECIPE

ROASTED CAULIFLOWER HUMMUS

By Tivo

(Makes one serving) In addition to being high in protein, this delicious hummus recipe also contains a serving of veg in the form of cauliflower, the “it” superfood of the moment.

PREP TIME:

40 minutes in the oven, 10 minutes to blend.

INGREDIENTS:

METHOD:

• 1 kilo cauliflower

1. Preheat the oven to 180C. Spread the cauliflower on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.

• 6 tsp extra virgin olive oil • ½ tsp ground cumin • 1 tsp madras curry powder • 4 tsp tahini

TIP:

No oven? Blanch the cauliflower in hot water and then stir-fry.

32

• Juice of half a lemon • 1 tin of chickpeas • ½ tsp kosher salt • 5 turns of black pepper

2. Roast for 40 minutes, stirring once or twice, until tender & lightly browned in spots. Allow to cool slightly.

3. Set one-third of the smallest cauliflower pieces aside .Chop off the stems and keep only the florets.

4. Combine cauliflower, garlic, tahini, lemon juice and olive oil in a blender. Process until smooth.

5. Mix the florets into the hummus and season to taste.

Pamper

READY SET GLOW with Rachel Read

I GOT YOU BAE As if the shops in Hong Kong didn’t provide enough retail temptation, a brand new e-commerce platform has launched to further trouble our wallets with all things beauty. Miss Baobae is the cool older sister of much-loved baby hamper company Baobae.com, and is dedicated to unique and emerging beauty brands from across the globe, many with an eco-friendly slant. Currently on my wish list: super-pigmented organic ILIA lipsticks, all-natural miracle eczema curers MooGoo, cult organic skincare brand Aromatica, and alcohol and paraben-free solid perfumes with the prettiest packaging in town from Sabé Masson. Delivery is free in Hong Kong for orders over $450… I can sense a haul coming on already! www.missbaobae.com.

ALL GROWN UP 10/10 HOPE have long been leaders in the eco-beauty game in Hong Kong, and they’ve just added yet another exciting new brand to their rostrum: Grown Alchemist.

This botanical-based skincare line was founded by two brothers with a passion for “natural-organic alchemy” after noticing a friend’s adverse reactions to traditional beauty products whilst undergoing cancer treatment. They’ve got the hard science to back up all those au naturel benefits too, with an army of cosmetic chemists to vigorously research and test each product. With sleek, simple packaging and an all-star line up of organic and vegan ingredients free from harmful chemicals (we’re talking powerful antioxidants, peptides, hyaluronic acid, collagen-boosting actives and plenty more goodies), this is definitely a brand to watch.

Available at 10/10 HOPE in Festival Walk, LAB Concept Admiralty and Eslite bookstores citywide. hk.1010hope.com.

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ASK THE EXPERT Alastair Sherlock Osteopath How is osteopathy different to physiotherapy and chiropractic?

I see the main difference between osteopathy and other modalities almost as philosophy. I chose

ONE FOR THE BOYS Male grooming has come a long way since a spray of Lynx and furtive purchasing of any product in “sport” packaging. Say hello to Austria’s hottest export since The Sound Of Music: SA.AL&CO. This premium skincare line should appeal to any men with a love of minimalism; the whole range consists of only five products: hair and body wash, shaving crème, a combined light moisturiser and aftershave balm, intense moisturiser and deodorant, meaning even the most clueless grooming newbies should get the hang of it. Its ingredients are 100 percent certified natural and vegan, and its stylish brushed aluminium packaging is totally recyclable too.

Available at JOYCE Grooming at The Landmark, Central and Joyce Beauty in Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui. saalskincare.com.

osteopathy because it requires the practitioner to zoom out and view the condition as a whole rather than focus on the problem area, for instance your shoulder or knee. The term "holistic" is a misappropriated word nowadays, but that is exactly what osteopathy is - you look at the entire body to find and deal with the root of the problem.

When you deal with the cause, the symptom invariably is given little choice but to disappear. It is a beautiful and engaging process and I feel lucky to love what I do each day.

What kind of patient is best suited to osteopathy?

Bearing the first question in mind, there is very little that cannot be made at least comfortable, if not treated completely, if we consider that structure and function are linked. Restore that and we usually observe resolution. Underlying the condition is an organism - the body - dealing

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

with a drain in its resources. By rebalancing the body, we usually deal with the issue itself, and therefore most things can be affected positively, even the seemingly unrelated and obscure. It is the most rewarding aspect of my work when we get presented with a real challenge and arrive at a positive outcome.

Information presented by Dr. Lauren Bramley & Partners

Travel

It’s not all blackjack and baccalau, you know. Believe it or not, Macau has its own burgeoning wellness scene, with some seriously inspiring businesses bringing wellness to the city, writes Macau Lifestyle's Sally Victoria Benson.

T

hough the fit life may be the furthest thing from your mind when you’re tucking into a Portuguese feast (or, for some of us, partying until dawn at Club Cubic), Macau actually has tons of great health conscious businesses, which have sprung up to serve locals and expatriates alike. Comparatively lower rents and a ready clientele of health-conscious performers from the casinos’ various shows have allowed unique vegan and wellness-oriented cafes, restaurants and gyms to flourish. Here are some of our favourites.

36

Travel

GREENS KITCHEN & JUICERY

Make Greens Kitchen and Juicery your first stop whenever you’re in Macau. A pioneer in promoting a message of health in the city, this cozy shop offers salads, wraps, soups, superfood smoothies, fresh baked goods and their hit signature line of coldpressed juices, all made with the environment in mind. If you’re walking to or from nearby mega gym Macao Fitness (251A-301 Ave Comercial de Macau, 4/F, Aia

Tower, (+853) 2875-1189, www. macao-fitness.com), grab one of their homemade granola bars or energy balls as a quick preworkout snack, or have one of their superfood smoothies as a post-workout shake. The Greens’ Smoothie is a must-try.

Calcada de Sato Agostinho No. 1A, (+853) 6288-0870, www.facebook.com/ GreensMacau.

TEALOSPHY If you’re a tea fanatic, there’s one special place in Macau that you mustn’t miss. A visit to Tealosophy will truly open your mind to the beautiful elegance of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Macau’s only tatami teahouse, Tealosophy serves the finest Chinese and Japanese tea alongside wagashi, traditional Japanese sweet treats. If you pay close attention to the teahouse menu, you will notice that it is entirely handwritten in elegant Chinese calligraphy. As a matter of fact, the space also runs calligraphy and Japanese tea ceremony workshops regularly.

Tealosophy at 65 Rua da Barca, Edificio Son Kuan, (+853) 2855-7002, tealosophymacau. blogspot.hk.

CHAKRA SPACE Chakra Space's philosophy is to provide the most delicious yet simple vegan dishes with the least wastage of food possible. That’s why you’ll not find a menu here; instead, the chef-owner creates innovative dishes inspired by his travels abroad, as well as what’s fresh that day. The rose-shaped avocado sashimi and mixed-mushroom curry are my favourites and with only 15 seats, bookings are highly recommended.

19 Calcada da Barra, Macau; open daily except Mondays, (+853) 6677-8669, www.facebook.com/chakraspace.

37

Travel

BLESS JUICE BAR

BODHI SPA

Take a stroll through tourist hotspot St. Augustine Square and you’ll surely pass by Bless Juice Bar. This charming pit stop serves refreshing fresh juices, coffee, herbal teas and hearty food in a beautiful sun-drenched cafe, right in the heart of the central tourist area.

Bless Juice Bar at Largo Se Santo Agostinho, No 1B, Edf. Yek Cheong R/C, (+853) 6222 9018, www.facebook.com/pg/blessjuicemo.

The multi-award-winning spa at the Conrad Macao in Cotai Central (it recently won “Macau’s Best Resort Spa” at the World Spa Awards 2016), Bodhi Spa specialises in Ayurvedic-inspired treatments, with elements of Western and Asian techniques.

Its Abhyanga massages use plenty of warm oil and help to balance your Kapha, Pitta and Vata doshas, or elements, allowing you to awaken, relax, or improve your quality of sleep.

L/3, Estrada do Istmo. s/n, Cotai Strip, Macau, (+853) 8113-6188, www.sandscotaicentral.com.

THE BLISSFUL CARROT

Nestled in the old Taipa village amidst quiet streets that hold a unique mix of Chinese and Portuguese architecture, The Blissful Carrot offers a wide variety of vegan and vegetarian food choices such as juice smoothies, salads, sandwiches, cold wraps and pasta. They have great dairyfree options for your coffee and I personally love their aImond and coconut milk options. They also sell organic, fair trade and gluten-free products. Try the freshly-made super fruit acai bowl with pomegranate, goji berries, raw nuts and coconut or another personal favourite, their protein power bowl. You can take your meal away and picnic in the garden outside the Green Houses with a calming view of the lake.

No. 79 R. Direita Carlos Eugenio, Taipa Village, (+853) 6298 8433, www.facebook.com/blissfulcarrot.

38

Sponsored feature

EVEREST BASE CAMP: TOUCH THE SKY Everest Base Camp for most of us represents a physical and mental challenge that needs to be explored. The beauty of this adventure is, you will get so much more out of it than you could ever imagine.

The beauty of the Himalayas will take your breath away - even though you’ll most likely already be gasping for air! The cracking of ice and occasional avalanche will keep you on your toes and the most pure fresh air will then calm you back down. This rollercoasters

14-night Everest Adventure Package:

of senses and emotions will be ever-present, but don’t worry, you’ll be in excellent hands with the Nepalese guides.

When in Base Camp you will see millions of stars in front of you, as if you can touch them right away. When you come back down from this journey of pure discovery, you’ll begin to appreciate the simple things a little more.

Everest Base Camp will help you re-set and be ready for anything life throws your way.

from

Top Tips: ◊

Eat, eat and eat some more. Keep it simple, eat real food and listen to your guides.

◊

Train hard and enjoy the journey.

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Take it all in - the beautiful local villages, the food, the stars and the challenge. It’s a little bit magic.

PARIS MARATHON: RUN THE CITY OF LIGHTS The Paris Marathon is fast becoming the place to be seen for established and up and coming Marathon stars alike. With massive crowd support, great running weather and a fast flat course, there is a reason the world’s elite runners are heading to the fashion capital to strut their stuff.

The course itself is like running through your own personal architectural and history lesson rolled into one. With a start line on the Champs Elysse and the Arc de Triomphe as your backdrop, you will wind from one end of

the city to the other with over 40,000 friends, taking in all the sights. The course is also bookended by forests, a unique feature not often enjoyed while running in a major world marathon.

Apart from the scenery, you also may just run a personal best time while in Paris! The course elevation is comparable with the flattest city marathons in the world, this coupled with one of the worlds most stimulating courses, may just be your own personal recipe for success.

11,699*

$

3-night Runner Package: from

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(twin share) Event date: 09 April, 2017

Top Tips: ◊

Bring your family and friends to enjoy the excitement with you.

◊

Pace yourself well (just don’t get too excited when you hear the gun go)

◊

Stay behind after the race. You’ll enjoy the city much more after seeing the sights during the Marathon.

Pre-register with Flight Centre Active Travel to partake in the most sought-after sporting events worldwide! Talk to our expert and reserve your spot NOW. For any more informations, call + 852 2830 2818 | email activetravel@flightcentre.com.hk | visit flightcentre.com.hk Terms & conditions apply, visit our website www.flightcentre.com.hk for full details. Written quote must be presented prior to booking. *Travel restrictions and conditions apply. Prices are per person in HKD, exclude taxes & subject to availability, and only applicable when two people are travelling together. Prices are correct at time of print and subject to change without notice. Flight Centre (Hong Kong) Limited trading as Flight Centre.Travel Agent licence no. 350062 t

Travel

HIT THE SPA

Looking for a five-star pamper sesh without those Hong Kong prices? Macau’s spectacular spas offer quality treatments with a more manageable price tag. Sarah Fung checks out the Spa at the Four Seasons Macau.

WHERE IS IT? The Four Seasons Macao is part of the Sands Resorts complex.

It’s connected to the Venetian and is a stone’s throw from Grand Canal Shoppes.

WHAT’S THE SPA LIKE? Huge. Macau’s resorts do not suffer from a lack of space, and this spa has high ceilings, 14 amply-sized treatment rooms, a plunge pool, steam, sauna and a spacious locker and changing area, where you can lounge around before and after your treatment.

HOW ARE THE TREATMENTS? We tried the signature Four Seasons massage and it was excellent. The therapist exerted just the right amount of pressure so it was strong without being painful. We loved it.

AND PRICES? Prices for a signature massage range from $1,080 (60 minutes, weekday) to $1,450 (90 minutes, weekend). That’s about 25 percent cheaper compared to Hong Kong.

WHAT ELSE? The Spa has launched a new health-conscious spa menu that combines fresh produce and delicious flavours to create a nourishing meal that you can enjoy after a treatment.

To start, there’s a Thai-style seafood pomelo salad with kaffir lime and peanuts, or pumpkin, goat's cheese and mixed greens, followed by miso cod with baby beets or a braised beef shank soup for mains. The meal includes dessert - think a bitter chocolate ice cube or fresh fruit platter, washed down with a healthy drink.

The meal costs MOP$388, making it an excellent add-on to a day of pampering.

4/F, The Four Seasons Macao, Estrada da Baía de N. Senhora da Esperança, S/N Taipa, Macau, 2881-8888, www.fourseasons.com/macau.

WARRIOR FITNESS Unleash your inner fighting machine at Warrior Fitness. This wellness hub located in a small industrial building in the heart of Taipa uses various combat sports to help you reach your fitness goals, be they weight loss, strength gaining, preparing for a fight, or just to have some fun. Warrior Fitness also offer classes such as BodyFit, Zumba, Pilates and Strength and Conditioning. The best part?

There are no signup fees or memberships fees - so if you are just over in Macau for a few days, you can drop into a class and pay as you go.

Va Nam Building, Avenida Olimpica, Taipa (+853) 6223-1511, warriormacau.com.

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Sally Victoria Benson is the publisher and co-founder of Macau lifestyle, the authoritative guide to all the coolest happenings, hidden hotspots, dining and entertainment news and must-sees in our sister SAR. Macaulifestyle.com.

Travel

TRAVEL WELL with Kate Springer

CNY FLIGHT HACK

KOH SAMUI IS CALLING...

And it says you need a wellness retreat ASAP! Luckily, 5 Star Fitness Retreat has just the thing. The Hong Kong-based company leads action-packed escapes to Koh Samui twice a year - one in March, and another in November. Typically running four days at a time, the retreat includes an intense fitness regime - think TRX, kayaking, SUP, Muay Thai, yoga, Strongman and more - as well as healthy meals, massages, workshops and group outings. Unlike a lot of fitness retreats, 5 Star makes every session optional - so you can go as hard or as slow as you like. And we wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to take things slow... After all, the retreat takes place at the Chaitalay Estate in Baan Kilee, which comes complete with an oceanfront pool, a 300-meter crescent beach, beautiful wooden villas and giant bathtubs. Now that’s my kind of retreat.

Next retreat, March 17-20, 2017. Rates from $13,030, not including airfare. www.5starfitnessretreat.com.

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Tell me you’re planning a last-minute CNY getaway, and my first reaction would be to cringe and offer my sincere apologies.

Having fallen into this trap myself - and never learning my lesson - I know all too well that average flight prices tend to triple during the massive Chinese holiday. But during my annual scramble this year, I stumbled upon a useful tool on Skyscanner.

The website’s Flight Comparison Map enables travelers to scan the entire region at once for direct flights, connecting routes, and average prices. After just a few minutes, I found $3,500 flights to Palawan over Chinese New Year - a destination that I had completely written off at first, assuming it would be too pricy. So whether you’re looking for inspiration or trying to save a few bucks, it’s worth checking this handy map before you book. www.skyscanner.net/inspire/map.

Travel

TEA’S COMPANY Tea master and monk Wu De has traveled all over Asia to practice the ancient art of Chinese tea ceremonies. This time, he’s headed to the peaceful COMO Shambhala Estate in Bali to honour Chinese tradition during the upcoming Lunar New Year. During each meditative ceremony, Wu De will choose a special organic tea for each guest, gracefully perform the tea rituals, later explaining how guests can incorporate a deeper sense of peace into their day-to-day lifestyles.

COMO’s tea ceremonies provide the best of both worlds: an experiential way to celebrate Chinese New Year from afar, without cutting into yoga and beach time.

Various times, January 23-Feb 1, 2017.

Sessions from $230. Room rates from $7,525. www.comohotels.com/ comoshambhalaestate.

Kate Springer is an Asia travel expert based in Hong Kong. Tag along on her adventures at Wish You Were Here (wywhere.com), or find her on Instagram and Twitter @KateSpringer.

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Family

FIT FAM with Kate Farr

Happy New Year! If you’re feeling glad to see the back of 2016, you’re far from the only one, so let’s dive right into this month’s roundup of the best healthy family news and get 2017 off to the right start!

POP AND PLAY Made from 60 percent post-consumer paper, these 100 percent recyclable cardboard toys by Krooom are affordable, sustainable and - most important of all for parents suffering from post-Christmas repair fatigue - durable. Requiring no tools to assemble, simply pop the toy out of its box, slot together, and you’re ready to play. A great genderneutral gift option, choose from emergency vehicles, ice cream trucks and a bakery play set, all at pocket money-friendly prices.

Vehicles cost $59, playsets cost $189. Buy online at baobae.com.

KEEP IT CLOSE TO YOUR CHEST Being a nursing mum can be a pretty unglamorous business. Trying to feed a hungry baby on the go whilst avoiding disapproving glares and tuts can be challenging enough, but get your timing slightly off and you’d better hope you packed yourself a spare tee in that bulging nappy bag.

Happily, Apple Cheeks has you, quite literally, covered. Known for their super-absorbent cloth nappies, the company has now turned its attention to mums, with a new range of ecofriendly washable bamboo nursing pads. Available in pink, or a more discreet white, these soft inserts are about to become your new breast friends (sorry). $155 for six pads. Buy online at petittippi.com.

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Family

SURVIVAL OF THE FASTEST The annual Ocean Park Conservation Foundation, Hong Kong (OPCFHK) Run For Survival race takes place this year on February 26. Winding its way through the Hong Kong Science Park and along the Pak Shek Kok Promenade, the event includes an adult 10k course and a 3k family run that’s ideal for little legs. Aiming to raise awareness of the very real issue of marine pollution in Hong Kong, funds raised on the day will go towards OPCFHK’s wildlife conservation programmes. The event will also host family-friendly pop-up crafting, where kids can find out more about ditching plastic in their everyday lives by making beeswax-based food wraps, along with fun art activities such as leaf painting. Registration is open until January 31, so lace up those running shoes and go!

Registration and further information is available at opcf.org.hk.

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

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The Guide RAW RESOURCES

Foodcraft

Allergy-friendly packaged foods, including raw coconut yogurt and parfaits, stoneground nut butters, dehydrated nori snacks, flax crackers and cocoroons. Available online or in health food stores citywide.

Kitchen: Flat A, 21/F, Yiuga Factory Building, 62 Victoria Rd., Kennedy Town, www.foodcraft.hk.

Greenwoods Raw Cafe

Raw food, Asian-style. Greenwoods has raw vegan soup noodles, sushi rolls, raw tofu cheesecakes and other sweet treats. Fruit “pizzas”, wraps and Western-style raw dishes also available. 13/F, 2 Carnarvon Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, 3428-2416, www. facebook.com/GreenwoodsRawCafe.

Maya Cafe

Mediterranean raw takeout spot, with a few seats available for dine-in.

Offers raw dips, zoodles, plenty of raw desserts and juices, as well as non-raw vegan mains.

G/F, Nan Fung Place, 173 Des

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Peace of Green Rawsome Kitchen Voeux Road Central, Sheung Wan,

barbecue grills.

2111-4553, www.facebook.com/

www.farmerskitchen.com.hk.

MayaCafeMediterraneanLifestyle.

Peace of Green Rawsome Kitchen

POG holds regular raw cooking workshops, where you can learn how to prep raw food - from tree nut cheese to bliss balls - at home.

Also does regular pop-up brunches, catering and private meals.

Gonzalo Kosher Meat

Specialises in grass-fed beef from Uruguay, which is certified antibioticand hormone-free. Also happens to be Glatt Kosher. Also on offer are lamb, turkey, chicken, veal, sausages and cold cuts. www.gonzalo.hk.

www.facebook.com/pogkitchen.

GRASS-FED MEAT Farmer’s Kitchen

Grass-fed australian beef and lamb, with plenty of large cuts at a good price for carnivores on a budget.

Also available are barbecue packs, salts and sauces, and even Australian

Farmer’s Kitchen

Meat Market

Predominantly sells grass-fed bonein cuts, roasting joints, secondary cuts, steak packs - and that’s just the beef section. There’s a handy key on every product, telling you everything you need to know: the country of origin, whether it’s chilled or frozen, how the cattle is fed, and more. Also has a great selection of organic and hormone-free pork and chicken. www.meatmarket.com.hk.

Mm Fresh Food

Grass-fed, wet-aged beef and lamb from New Zealand that’s free-range, hormone-free and fully traceable. Also offers sustainably-caught seafood from the waters off New Zealand and Australia. Deliveries are made on Fridays to Hong Kong Island, and Saturdays to the rest of Hong Kong. www.mmfreshfood.com.

Pacific Gourmet

Has plenty of choice when it comes to beef. Each product is marked as grain- or grass-fed on the website.

Prices start at $282 per kilo for grassfed striploin. Organic, hormonefree poultry, Australian pork and deli meats also on offer. Delivery available six days a week. www.pacificgourmet.com.hk.

Tenderloin Fine Foods

Offers grass-fed beef from New Zealand and Argentina, both of which offer free-range, lean and hormonefree cuts. Also has free-range lamb from Australia or New Zealand.

Preparation tips available on the website. tenderloin.com.hk.

OUTDOOR WORKOUTS Apefit

Functional training inspired by the movements of animals. Classes take place in Kennedy Town, Mid-Levels, Sai Ying Pun and the Southside.

Prices are $200 for a drop-in session; packages make this cheaper. ape.fit.

Bikini Fit

Women-only outdoor training club with programs in Victoria Park, Hong Kong Park, Sun Yat-sen Park and Kowloon Park. Workouts take place daily over a 12-week cycle, with plenty of support, personalised attention and lectures for a full lifestyle overhaul. bikinifit.com.hk.

Circuit 25

One of Hong Kong’s first outdoor bootcamp classes. Runs sessions in Bowen Road, Victoria Park, ICC and Happy Valley. circuit25.com.

NT Bootcamp

An outdoor bootcamp based in the New Territories. Classes currently run three times per week: Sundays at 11am in Sha Tin Wai, and Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:30pm in Kowloon Tong’s Cornwall Street park. The first class is free; packages are $180 for three sessions, down to $140 each if you buy 10. www.facebook.com/ NTBootcamp.

Bikini Fit

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Back Page

I’m a third-generation volunteer at the Adventist Hospital Foundation and have been involved for more than 50 years.

My maternal grandmother was involved in the very first fundraising activities for the hospital, along with my mum, aunt and uncle. My aunt continued to help and my mum passed on the baton to me.

In my twenties and early thirties I was not healthy at all. I overate and did not have much knowledge of what was healthy and not healthy, I also over-worked and it created a lot of stress in my body.

Wellness 360 was set up because I wanted to live a healthier life, eat better and learn more about the health industry. When I left the corporate world I discovered that all my knowledge was in property marketing.

I needed a change and I wanted to work in an area that I could grow into. I believe that wellness, health and fitness is finally taking off in Hong Kong, but I have included some family elements into my fairs because to me that’s the most important element of my life.

I spend 60 percent of my time on philanthropy and 40 percent of my time on my day job. I have a very solid team who allow me to have balance!

Stress can be managed if you are able to build a strong base with your immediate family, friends and

colleagues. I am always working with a range of people and enjoy my interactions with them. I am constantly busy but I am not often stressed. I rely on my weekly massages, exercise and acupuncture sessions to keep myself healthy and sane.

I am not fit at all; I have quite a way to go. But I do commit to a weekly fitness session with my personal trainer who works on my cardio. My cardio is horrible!

Hong Kong’s wellness scene is still growing and most companies are SMEs. They still do not have the support that they need and there are not many platforms for them to market their products and services. I would love to see a bigger “Wellness” area in supermarkets, so that health is accessible to more people.

Wellness does not have to be expensive, but there’s this perception that it is in Hong Kong. We must educate the next generation to live healthier lives and eat better.

I want to create some even bigger fairs, so we are looking into securing some interesting venues. 2017 will be more about quality, as opposed to quantity.

In the next 12 months, I believe that a lot of North American and Australian brands will enter the Hong Kong and China market, allowing products and services to become slightly more affordable. This industry will grow exponentially and I’m very excited.

HOW I LIV

JO SOOTANG

If you work in the wellness industry, chances are you will have heard of or worked with Jo Soo-Tang. She is the Chairman of the Board of Governors at the Hong Kong Adventist Hospital Foundation; the cofounder of the Beyond Foundation, which provides complementary therapies for special needs kids; board member of the Splash Foundation, which runs free swimming classes for domestic helpers in Hong Kong; and the founder of Wellness 360, which organises fairs across Hong Kong, all with a healthy twist. She speaks to Liv about the future of wellness in Hong Kong.

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THE

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The Quantics Kitchen is headed by Hong Kong’s top fitness focused chef Mike Boyle.

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