Liv Magazine March 2017

FITNESS

NUTRITION

WELLBEING

TRAVEL

E CO

S PA

FREE

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

The Uber of Fitness?

Feed Me

PTs to your door

Plate Culture’s healthiest chefs

Rugby Fever Countdown to the Sevens

Top of the Crops

Racing Malaysia Penang Eco’s 100-mile run

New grains to try

SERENITY IN THE CITY Meditate - it’s good for you

WIN health food hampers, crystal jewellery and organic skincare on page 16!

MARCH 05 Editor’s Letter

LIV | NEWS 06 It’s a Date

Events for your diary

08 Hot Right Now

New happenings on the wellness scene

10 Fresh Cuts

Dining news that’s good for you

12 Cheat Day

Because #YOLO

14 Reviews

Tooth whitening and menstrual cups - it's been quite a month

LIV | STORIES 18 Om My Goodness

Everyone's meditating, and here's why you should too

24 Plate Full

The best healthy chefs on Plate Culture

LIV | MORE 28 Feeling Grainy?

Trendy grains, and how to cook them

32 Recipe

34

Heirloom carrot salad from Relish Kitchen

34 Pamper

Chemical-free pamper products

36 Travel

A preview of the Penang Eco 100

44 Family

Free science demos for kids of all ages

50 How I Liv

Michelle Bang, eco-fashion activist

08

36

06

v

EDITOR’S LETTER

MIND OUT Overworked and overstressed? Don’t have time to just sit and stare at the wall? I feel you. Between magazines, meetings, and a toddler who will smear jam on my laptop if left unsupervised for 20 seconds, there’s very little room for Zen in my life.

Fortunately for the rest of the world, people are starting to wise up to the fact that meditation and mindfulness are important for good mental health. That’s why our cover story this month is a beginner’s guide to meditation: the different branches available, and where to give it a go in Hong Kong (p.18). Here’s hoping you’ll learn to switch off and calm your brain better than I can.

Meditation not your thing? There’s more. If you’ve not tried Plate Culture yet, you should give it a go (p.24). This app basically turns any talented chef’s home into a private kitchen, connecting hungry diners looking for a home-cooked meal with foodies looking to host a private party. And there are plenty of raw, vegan and health-conscious chefs out there, ready to whip up a delicious meal.

Controlling your carbs but tired of quinoa? Check out our story on the trendiest grains out there - from teff to freekeh, sorghum to spelt - we’ve got it covered (p.28).

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS

This month’s cover was shot by the very talented Paul Sunga, who specialises in fitness and fashion photography.

In need of some headspace?

Adam White dips a toes into the world of meditation. Read all about it on p.18.

On the hunt for new alternatives to wheat, Zoe Bellhomme discovers all the healthy grains you need to put on your radar. p.28.

Andrea Lo speaks to the very inspirational Michelle Bang to learn how we can make more eco-friendly fashion choices. P. 50.

SARAH FUNG PUBLISHER

facebook.com/livmagazine.hk

www.liv-magazine.com

liv.magazine, #livmagazine

Say hi hello@liv-magazine.com

Buy an ad sales@liv-magazine.com

Send invites and info to: Makerhive, 10/F, Cheung Hing Industrial Building, 12P Smithfield, Kennedy Town PUBLISHER SARAH FUNG SALES MANAGER AILEEN CHAN SOCIAL MEDIA STACEY MARCELO ADMINISTRATOR JASMIN BLUNCK GRAPHIC DESIGN TAMMY TAN, CONTRIBUTORS KATE FARR, KATE SPRINGER, RACHEL READ, ANDREA LO, ADAM WHITE, ZOE BELLHOMME, MYRA NAZIR, DEIRDRE GRIFFIN COVER PAUL SUNGA MODEL TINA CHU 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.

5

Calendar

IT’S A DATE

MARCH 4, 11, 18, 25

W-W-WORK IT

Taking your traditional gym workout quite literally to new heights, W Hong Kong is hosting SWEAT IT OUT, a variety of fun, full-body workouts every Saturday at WET, the hotel’s 76th floor pool deck. With a different instructor at every session, ranging from dance and yoga to strength training and HIIT-Pilates (yes, it's a thing), each ticket includes healthy snacks, detox drinks and a goodie bag featuring fitness gear from Calvin Klein Performance. Want to enhance your experience? An extra $650 gets you all-day access to the heated outdoor pool, sauna, steam and Jacuzzi. $500, 11am-2pm, WET pool deck, 76/F, W Hong Kong. Book at w-hongkong.com/sweatitout.

MAR 8

SWEAT FOR SUCCESS

Women in Sports Empowered HK (WISE HK) and Lean in Hong Kong are hosting a panel discussion to explore how athletic success can help you professionally.

Titled “Translating Success on the Athletic Field to Success in Business” the panel will cover mental toughness, defining success and much more. The event is free but there is a suggested $50-$100 donation to Swim Inspired Sai Kung, which teaches swimming to ethnic minority girls and young women.

6:30-9pm, WeWork Wan Chai, 33 Lockhart Rd., Wan Chai. Register at eventbrite.hk.

6

MARCH 18

COMMUNITY CONNECT As part of its #yogaforall campaign to offer wellness to the wider community, Pure Yoga is offering several free public classes every week - including an outdoor class on March 18 in Victoria Park - no membership required!

Booking opens on March 16, but if you can’t make this one, visit Pure’s community page for more free classes throughout March and April.

10:30-11:30am, Victoria Park, Causeway Basy. pure-yoga.com.

Calendar

What a Ruck!

Rugby Week is around the corner, which means it’s time to dust off that polyester jumpsuit and read up on the offside rule. In addition to the biggest event on Hong Kong’s sporting calendar - the Rugby Sevens - taking place on April 7-9, there’s a huge lineup of satellite events taking place that week:

APRIL 5 Kowloon RugbyFest A social rugby tournament

featuring clubs from all over Asia.

Free. 9am, King’s Park Sports Ground, Jordan, www.rugbyfest.org.

APRIL 6 Hong Kong Sevens Kickoff Concert Featuring punk rockers From the Jam and UK ska band Madness.

7:30pm, Indian Recreation Club, 63 Caroline Hill Rd., So Kon Po. $388-$988 from ticketflap.com.

MARCH 10-11

APRIL 5-6 GFI HKFC Hong Kong Tens Cheer on local clubs as they take on teams from all over the world, including Australia, Ireland, Shanghai and Rwanda, to name just a few. $100 per day or $150 for two days from ticketflap. com. After party tickets and packages also available. Hong Kong Football Club, 3 Sports Rd., Happy Valley, 2830-9500, www.hkfc.com.hk.

MARCH 10-28

TEND YOUR GARDEN

ART MEETS WELLNESS

The Garden Gathering is the ultimate #squadgoals. Taking place on Sai Yuen Farm on Cheung Chau Island, it’s an inclusive three-day overnight camping trip for women of all backgrounds to sleep under stars, share skills, meditate, practice yoga, awaken the spirit and reconnect with Mother Earth in a non-judgmental and inclusive setting.

Tickets are $1,800 for the whole weekend and children are welcome to join.

Check out www.thegardengathering.com for more details.

Here’s one for art lovers: ART HOME: Meditation is a unique secret pop-up exhibition located in a private residence in Aberdeen.

Exploring the connection between art and health, you’ll see artwork from renowned artists, including Buddhist sculptor Li Chen, contemporary artist Vaan Ip and light artist Teddy Lo. The opening party on March 10 is an immersive experience, with healthy canapes, talks, healing sessions and more.

Opening event: March 10, 7:3010:30pm. $380 from pelago.events.

Thereafter, the exhibition is free and runs 2-7pm daily until March 11-28, 2-7pm. RSVP essential.

Book at 2880-5678 and learn more at greenartasia.com.

DON’T MISS MARCH 11

THE WELLNESS 360 FAIR

This popular healthy lifestyle fair comes to the Repulse Bay, with health-conscious vendors all showcasing their wares.

109 Repulse Bay Rd., Repulse Bay, wellness360hk.com.

MARCH 14-17

SWEET SORROW

A charity photo exhibition of works by Wing Shya, with proceeds going to the Hong Kong Adventist Hospital Foundation.

March 14 opening event: $800. 6-8pm, Loft 22, 22/F California Building, 30-36 D’Aguilar St., Central.

Free on March 15-17.www.hkahf.org.hk.

MARCH 18-19

SHI FU MIZ SOUTHSIDE PROJECT

Shi Fu Miz creative arts and culture festival is doing a mini event with Ovolo Southside, with an underground warehouse second location for the after party. $400, 4pm-2am, Ovolo Southside, 64 Wong Chuk Hang Rd., Wong Chuk Hang. Check out more at www.facebook.com/shifumiz.

7

Cool Stuff

HOT RIGHT NOW News from the wellness scene

No Plastic? Fantastic!

With our landfills groaning at the seams and our oceans choked with trash, it’s more important than ever to seek out sustainable alternatives for day-to-day essentials. Newly launched platform and e-shop Plastic-Free HK sells a wide selection of plastic-free alternatives for your home. From straws, lunchboxes and food wrappers, to tableware, produce bags and toothbrushes, everything on this site is fairly priced, stylish and designed to be used again and again. We love it! www.plasticfreehk.com.

Lunch on the Run

So you’ve got an hour for lunch. Do you: a) check out that new ramen spot; b) hit the gym and come back to work hangry; or c) dine al desko as you surf Facebook. Again. New bootcamp company Fit Eat In knows the struggle, and has developed a lunchtime program that combines a 30-minute workout with an organic meal from Supafood to go. At $200 per session, it’s a crazy convenient and fairly-priced solution to you lunchtime fitness dilemmas.

Classes take place in Hong Kong Park.

Visit www.fiteatin.com to learn more.

8

Cool Stuff

Foodspring has Sprung

There’s a new health food brand in town, and we reckon your’e going to love it. Originally from Germany, Foodspring brings a great selection of super-clean, top-quality snacks and supplements to Hong Kong - think protein coconut water with added whey from pasture-fed cows, protein powders, dehydrated fruit and veggie chips, green powders and protein bars, all coming in sleek, minimalist packaging that you’ll be proud to flash at the gym. It’s all organic and manufactured to the highest international standards using carefully selected raw materials. Foodspring specialises in sports nutrition, so be sure to give the vegan protein a go. A blend of pea, sunflower, hemp and rice proteins, it tastes awesome and is flavoured with natural vanilla and stevia ($430 for 600g). www.foodspring.com.hk.

Planet-friendly Pampering

Looking for a beauty fix that ticks all your planet-, animal- and skin-friendly boxes? Minimal is a new site that directly connects buyers with boutique eco-friendly skincare brands that are vegan, chemical-free, don’t test on animals and are good for the environment too. Its pre-launch offered shoppers a monthly subscription of curated skincare products, and now this month the marketplace starts in earnest, meaning you’ll be able to shop brands such as At One Skincare, Be Genki, Jjenisis and Botanical Signature direct from the companies and distributors themselves. www.getminimal.com.

Go On, Avigo

While there are plenty of fitness apps that allow you to manage bookings conveniently on your mobile, how many of them actually work with your busy schedule? Avigo allows you to book on-demand personal training or group classes by searching for an instructor according to your location, time and category (fitness, yoga, combat or running). Like an Uber for fitness, the app alerts relevant trainers of your request and pings you when the most suitable trainer has been selected for you. If you’re a strong believer that the coach makes the class, you can also search through instructors’ profiles to select specific areas of expertise, qualifications and even read customer reviews.

Available on iPhone and Android. avigoapp.com.

9

Dining

FRESH CUTS Dining news that’s good for you

CONTINENTAL DRIFT We’re not sure if the Pirata Group had wellness in mind when it opened Central hotspot TokyoLima, but it’s a happy coincidence that the menu is a health-conscious foodie’s dream. Rich in flavours, Nikkei cuisine is a mashup of Peruvian and Japanese flavours, with healthy root veggies and ancient grains from the Peruvian side and fish and fresh ingredients from the Japanese side. The menu offers raw seafoods, ceviche and lean grilled skewers as well as vegetarian options, which means loads of protein and superfoods aplenty. Be sure to try the classic Salmon Tiradito ($160) where raw salmon is “cooked” in a marinade of passion fruit leche del tigre and topped with ikura roe, avocado and crispy fansi noodles. Vegetarians can enjoy the Tacu Tacu ($210), a traditional Peruvian rice and legume pancake that has been described as a flavorful Peruvian take on refried beans and rice, served with stir-fried snow beans and chimichurri.

18-20 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central, 2811-1152, www.tokyolima.hk.

HOW GAUCHO Looking for a working lunch spot that’s sufficiently luxe but won’t leave you dozing at your desk? Award-winning Argentine steakhouse chain, Gaucho, has introduced a brand new ‘Feel Good, Feel Great’ weekday business lunch menu. While the “feel great” half of the menu will satisfy carnivores with steaks and burgers, the “feel good” side contains healthier options that are designed to ring in at around 500 calories for the entire two ($260)- or three-course ($290) meal. Think spiced chickpea patties, ceviche and oven-baked sea bream with french beans.

5/F, LHT Tower, 31 Queen’s Road Central, 2386-8090, www.gauchorestaurants.com.

10

Dining

WHAT DO HEALTHY PEOPLE EAT?

Gianni Melwani, co-founder, IRIS yoga and wellness festival

least healthy years. Alcohol What do you usually have for breakfast? played a big role as I wanted to I usually have either a fried “fit in” and I would eat all kinds or scrambled egg with lightly of junk food. melted cheese on brown toast Have you ever done a cleanse? and a bowl of oatmeal or whole I went to Rishikesh, India for grain cereal with raisins. I’ll a yoga retreat and was on also drink a cup of hot water a Sattvic diet (fruits, dairy mixed with sliced ginger, lemon, products, nuts, seeds, oils, ripe We called healthy cocktails as a trend back in turmeric and Manuka honey. vegetables, legumes, whole January, and now we know it’s here to stay, What’s your go-to for a grains, and non-meat based with the launch of healthy ingredient-infused healthy meal? proteins) for a week. That, cocktails at I Know John, Prive Group’s retro A large piece of fresh salmon coupled with full days of yoga speakeasy-style cocktail bar. The “antidotes” with either a light garden salad and meditation practices, left menu offers fresh, tasty tipples featuring or broccoli with garlic and ginger. me feeling light, powerful, superfood ingredients such as avocado, Plus tomatoes, mashed potatoes aware, peaceful and joyful. vegan bacon, mushrooms, activated coconut with herbs or brown rice. charcoal.. and even saline solution. Try the When was the last time you Koko Spritz, made with Jamaican coconut What do you eat before and ate McDonald’s? rum,lemongrass, mint, coconut water and after working out?

About six years ago. Back then, activated charcoal, or the guac-in-a-class A few hours before a football I couldn’t say no to those shake Let’s Salsa (pictured), with lime, avocado game I keep it light, eating shake fries! and coriander. With drinks like these, who lean protein such chicken or Last meal on earth: what needs to worry about hangovers? fish and a protein shake mixed would it be? with berries and raw cacao.

9/F, The Loop, 33 Wellington St., Central, It would have to be a Japanese Afterwards I have protein and 2801-6555, iknowjohn.hk. meal. Fresh sushi and sashimi, fibre for muscle recovery. yakitori skewers, a nice hot Any secret health food tips? bowl of tempura udon noodles.

Take a teaspoon of coconut What’s your food oil and Manuka honey, mix philosophy? it together and eat it like you As long as you take would an ice cream - it’s a great a little bit of time to source of energy. understand and apply the fundamentals of a What do you have on cheat day? balanced healthy Sunday evenings. One of my diet and lifestyle, favourites is pizza and wine eating consciously at Motorino. will become an enjoyable When were you at your least experience. healthy?

My last year of high school and first year of university were my

CLEANSING COCKTAILS

11

Dining

CHEAT DAY

Because life’s too short to always order the salad

HOT CHICKS Much as we all love Korean Fried Chicken, it ain’t exactly good for you. But at least there’s a new healthy(ish) way to indulge: Dodam Chicken, a popular name in South Korea, actually offers a baked alternative. It’s crisped up in a pizza oven for a significantly less greasy experience that still delivers that kick of Korean flavours we all crave. And if you need something to cut through all that richness, there’s even a salad on the menu, with kale, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers and radish.

18A, Lee Theatre Plaza, 99 Percival St., Causeway Bay, 2333-8365, www.dodamchicken.com.

12

Reviews

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

#REALTALK

WHITENING

Lunette Menstrual Cup The Buzz: There’s been a bit of a revolution recently.

Rather than silently getting on with it, women are talking frankly about their periods like never before. Namely, how can we make choices about our periods that are better for our health and the environment? Enter menstrual cups: these have been around for a while but are finally making their way into the mainstream as an alternative to tampons. Safe and reusable, they can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time.

The product: Made in Finland

out of medical-grade silicone, the founders of distribution company Anna Jade brought the Lunette to Hong Kong as it’s regarded as one of the best menstrual cups on the market. Far from a hippy vibe, the cups are packaged beautifully and come with a discreet pouch.

The trial: OK, so it takes a bit of getting used to, and we did a LOT of reading online to make sure we were doing

14

it right. But after a couple of days we totally get why people never go back to tampons. Washing the cup is a bit of a hassle, but it’s only once in the morning and once at night, so you shouldn’t have to contend with a “Carrie”-esque episode in a public restroom unless you’re really unlucky. But once it’s in, you can forget about it until you go to bed. Leaks are a non-issue as the cup creates a natural seal that doesn’t let anything spill.

The Verdict: Converted!

We’ve been worried about the bleaches and chemicals in tampons, and the wastefulness and inconvenience of pads for some time, but assumed that menstrual cups were the sole preserve of the seriously crunchy. But Lunette has shown us that eco-friendly tampon alternatives can be for regular women, too. $340 from Golden Tree, G/F, 81 First St., Sai Ying Pun, 2153-0229, goldentree.com. hk. Also available online at annajade.asia.

Teeth Whitening treatment at Smile Center The Buzz: Got a big presentation, a big date or an event coming up? Brighten up your gnashers with a quick in-and-out session at Smile Center, smack bang in the middle of LKF. The Experience This bright white space is taken up by four enormous and comfy egg chairs where your treatment takes place. After you take your “before” picture, You brush your teeth with a disposable finger brush, and then a mouthpiece filled with goop is placed over your teeth. You sit back and hit up the wifi for 20 minutes as the blue whitening light and peroxide-free formula takes effect. Then you rinse, spit and reapply. The process can be repeated up to three times in a session.

The Verdict: Our teeth weren’t too bad to begin

with but we were dazzled by the final results.

We were lightened by six shades, though the staff said that anywhere between two and 10 shades is common, depending on your teeth and the nature of your staining.

We’d definitely nip to Smile Center for a top-up every so often to keep our teeth looking pearly white.

The Cost: $750 for one session, $950 for two or $1,250 for three.

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

Sponsored Feature

INSIDE SPARTAN RACE

S

partan Race returns to Hong Kong again on April 22! This exciting 6-kilometre obstacle race comes charged up with some exciting new features: a new Competitive category, a Spartan Junior kids’ race and an all new running course. Want to give it a go, but not sure if you’re made of the right stuff? Don’t sweat it - we took a closer look at the obstacle race and realised that it’s not as scary as it seems.

1. It’s not THAT far a distance Spartan Race Sprint is a distance of 6 kilometres, with 20 obstacles to conquer. With no time limit, you can take it at your own pace, or even grab your friends, form a team and tackle it together.

2. The obstacles are like, only 30 percent terrifying OK, so there’s mud. A lot of mud. But this ain’t the SAS, and while it's a real challenge, you should be able to complete the course and feel exhilarated afterwards. “The course is meant to be challenging but not impossible. You don’t need to be a super athlete to take part in Spartan Race. For first time racers, running in the Open Category will be an amazing experience especially if you’re in a team!” says race organiser Charlz Ng.

3. Normal people did the first Spartan Race… and survived!

It’s true - you don't need to be a superhuman to get involved with Spartan Race. The event began simply because organisers wanted people to get off the couch, challenge themselves and kick-start a positive change. “I was a bit nervous at the thought of running Spartan Race for the first time, especially because I did not train properly for it. But when it came to the actual race itself, it was fun and fulfilling and it just goes to show when you put your mind to it you can do it,” says Karan Lakhani, who tackled Spartan Race for the first time back in November.

4. There’s a really, supportive atmosphere Don’t worry - even if you’re not the most in-shape Spartan at the starting line, there’s something about crawling through mud and crushing your goals that brings people together.

Thousands of spectators will be cheering you on from the sidelines. There’s a real festival atmosphere, with group warmup exercises, music, stalls, games... and a nice cold beer to celebrate all your efforts.

5. There are training classes happening every week until the event - and they’re totally free!

S I G N U P NOW AT www. s p a rt a n ra ce .h k

Need to get whipped into shape? In partnership with gyms, studios and fitness groups, Spartan Race is offering FREE workouts to members of the public at locations all over Hong Kong. The official Mass Workouts also take place on the second and fourth Sunday in March and April. Details are regularly announced on Spartan Race’s social media.

WIN: A selection of goodies from Foodspring

GIVEAWAYS visit liv-magazine.com/giveaways

WIN: A crystal bracelet from Cliff Von Edge

Whether you’re looking to for a chance to win! add muscle or get into shape, Crystal jewellery brand German sports nutrition company CLIFF VON EDGE has designed Foodspring is perfect for the healtha bracelet exclusively for Liv conscious. Everything is made from readers. The “Emerald Spring sustainable ingredients, and is chemicalPassion” bracelet (pictured) is made and hormone-free. We’ve got a taster pack to with rose gold diamond hematite, emerald give away that includes one whey protein, three and topaz diamond quartz and freshwater pearls. vegan whey sachets, two cocowhey protein drinks The stones are said to nurture the heart chakra, (pictured), one pack of crunchy fruits, one pack of symbolising hope for the future and personal growth. nuts and berries, and one shaker to mix up those We have 30 bracelets to give away, each worth $660. protein shakes. The whole set is worth $875 www.cliffvonedge.com. and we have one set up for grabs. foodspring.com.hk.

WIN: A Jasmine & Vanilla nourishing body set from Verité Spa Organics This romantic body scrub and butter set from online store Cabanee will leave your skin glowing. An organic skincare brand from New Zealand, Verité Spa Organics uses shea and cocoa butters as well as raw organic sugar to scrub away dry skin. Natural jasmine and vanilla fragrance boosts your mood and leaves skin delicately scented. We have two sets up for grabs, each worth $760. cabanee.com.

16

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

NEXT-LEVEL PERSONALISED MEALS An Oxford scientist (Dr Justin Gregory, Biorna Quantics), Hong Kong’s best fitness chef (Mike Boyle), and Hong Kong’s top nutritionist and functional medicine practitioner (Miles Price) have teamed-up to give you the future of personalised nutrition — delivered ready-to-eat direct to your door.

THE

UANTICSKITCHEN

INFORMED BY SCIENCE. YOUR FAST-TRACK TO OPTIMAL HEALTH Finest fresh organic ingredients Seasonally and ethically sourced foods High in anti-inflammatory foods & antioxidants Focus on key fatty-acids, enzymes & prebiotics All low glycemic index foods Gluten free, dairy free, soy free and artificial-everything-free Unique macronutrient-precision tailoring informed by your SIMPLY FIT™ DNA test Highest quality foods identified as optimal for your genotype and unique physiological you

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

Chef Mike is determined to enrapture Hong Kong with a whole new world of healthy eating, tailored to the specific requirements of the unique biological individual.

Mike is also Head Chef of ALTO Bar & Grill.

MACRO-PRECISION

MEALS

By Biorna Quantics

BRAIN-POWER

PREBIOTIC BREAKFASTS

ANTIOXIDANT

POWER SMOOTHIES

UANTICSBARS UANTICS

+852 2882-6239 | info@biorna-quantics.com | www.biorna-quantics.com

Cover Story

I TAT I O N D E M O I T N A S T S Yes, Hong Kong is crazy, frantic, exhausting… but it doesn’t have to be. Rebalance your mind and embrace a calmer self by learning how to meditate - we’ve got a practice to suit just about everyone.

By Adam White

18

Cover Story

For those Seeking Control:

NEW KADAMPA MEDITATION What is it? The New Kadampa Tradition is a practice which seeks to make Buddhist meditation and teachings more accessible to modern-day life. It focuses on meditating on a “virtuous object” - subjects that will make the mind more peaceful and positive. The 21 “objects” on the path to enlightenment include the preciousness of human life, compassion and love. The result? Peace, clarity and control over your mind.

Try it out: Kadampa Meditation Centre offers a Learn to Meditate course. It can consist of three evening classes ($240), or a half-day course on Sunday ($200). Regular drop-in classes (suggested donation $50-100) are also available throughout the week.

1/F Causeway Tower, 16-22 Causeway Rd., Causeway Bay, 2507-2237, meditation.hk.

For the Overthinkers:

ZEN MEDITATION What is it? A central element of Zen practice is zazen, sitting meditation, in which one works to suspend the active mind, allowing thoughts and images to just pass by. Other elements of Zen practice include bowing, chanting and kong-an interviews, in which teacher and student enter into dialogues to further their understanding.

Just don’t fall asleep: zen masters use a “hitting stick” to gently reprimand dozing students.

Try it out:The Su Bong Zen Monastery runs introduction to meditation classes every Tuesday evening from 7:30-9:30pm, with regular morning meditation and evening practices thereafter.

5/F, Starlight House, 32 Leighton Rd., Causeway Bay, 2891-9315, subong.org.hk

19

Cover Story

For the Unspiritual:

MINDFULNESS What is it? Essentially, it’s Buddhist meditation without the spiritual side. Mindfulness is the state of being aware and present in every moment, preventing us from falling into loops of negative thought. Mindfulness works to acknowledge and accept one’s thoughts and feelings, but not to place undue emphasis on any of them. It has been increasingly studied in the last few years and has been shown to be effective in the management of stress, anxiety and eating disorders, among others.

Try it out: Mindfulness Hong Kong runs 10-week long courses in Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction ($3,500), which combines guided instruction, yoga, group dialogue and individual instruction. Free orientation sessions are recommended.

Locations in both Central and Tsim Sha Tsui, see more at mindfulness.hk.

For the Hardcore:

VIPASSANA MEDITATION What is it? Not easy, that’s what.

Vipassana meditation is exclusively taught during a 10-day-long silent retreat. Aiming to completely wipe out “mental impurity,” Vipassana places an emphasis on self-observation: To systematically notice the sensations

20

you are feeling - including pain without allowing them to preoccupy you. Through this disciplined selfobservation, practitioners are able to rebalance their minds.

Try it out: The Vipassana Meditation Centre Hong Kong offers the retreat course in Tun Wan, South Lantau and Hang Tau, New Territories. The retreats are free and entirely volunteer-run.

Visit mutta.dhamma.org to register.

Cover Story

For the Active Spiritualist:

KUNDALINI YOGA What is it? If you think that spending 20 minutes just sitting there sounds like a waste of time, try Kundalini yoga. The “yoga of awareness” works to awaken kundalini energy - a primal force said to lie at the base of the spine, according to Hindu philosophy. Yoga asanas are combined with meditation, breathing work and mantras. Purported benefits include boosted sleep, energy, focus and intuition.

Try it out: SOL Wellness runs Kundalini yoga classes every Tue-Fri. 16/F, Tin On Sing Commercial Building, 41-43 Graham St., Central, 2581-9699, sol-wellness.com.

MEDITATION:

Need to Know Q: Do you need to be a Buddhist to meditate?

A: Nope. Most Buddhist meditation practices make a point of being open to people of all religions and beliefs. That said, many find themselves being drawn to the spiritual aspect after a while.

Q: I fall asleep as soon as I close my eyes. Will I have a problem?

A: Most people don’t close their eyes while meditating, instead keeping them half-shut to reduce distractions but still let in light.

Also, you should go to bed earlier.

Q: I can’t cross my legs. Help!

A: You don’t have to sit crosslegged to meditate, especially when starting out. Sitting in a straight-backed chair is fine.

Q: Will meditation eliminate my anxiety/depression/other issue?

A: Not necessarily. Meditation can help to reduce some of the patterns of negative thought which can trigger such conditions, but all respectable practitioners insist that they are not psychologists.

P O K É WO R L D Freshly made to order poké bowls, salads and rice wraps

21

Cover Story

For the Energy-starved:

TICE… C A R P Y M

Liv’s cover model this month is PR maven Tina Chu, who has been meditating regularly since 2014 in the New Kadampa Tradition.

What are the benefits of meditation for you?

Some people approach meditation as a way to just clear your mind, to just sit in that nothingness. But the focus of the type of meditation I do is to not just to clear your mind, but to control it. Meditation is being acquainted with your mind, and knowing how to make it work for you instead of against you.

DIAMOND WAY MEDITATION What is it? This school of Tibetan Buddhism combines a variety of different meditation methods.

The main one is 16th Karmapa Meditation, in which participants focus on the specific energy of a Buddha, aligning themselves with his light and energy. The meditation aims to rejuvenate the body, speech and mind, delivering a state of fearlessness and compassion.

What subjects do you meditate on?

One of them is “loving kindness” - treating everybody that you see in a loving, more compassionate way. So rather than cursing somebody in front of you in a traffic jam, meditation allows you the time and space in your heart to think - oh, that person wishes to be happy as well. Maybe they’re in a rush themselves. It’s putting yourself in their shoes.

Are there any downsides?

Not at all. I think it’s necessary! We’re so neurotic nowadays that we try to fill in negative feelings with our obsessions. But meditation’s so simple: you can do it with no money and no tools at all. You’ll be able to make better choices when you come from a calm place, not an erratic one.

Kadampa Meditation Centre offers free dropin meditation classes every Tuesday CHK. 1/F Causeway Tower, 16-22 Causeway Rd., Causeway Bay, 2507-2237, meditation.hk.

22

Try it out: Diamond Way Buddhist Centre Hong Kong holds free meditation sessions on Mondays at 7:30pm and Saturdays at 11am.

Monday sessions start with a short introduction to meditation and Buddhism.

2/F, Unit 3, 3-5 Jervois St., Sheung Wan, buddhism.hk.

Cover Story

For the Overcaffeinated:

TEA MEDITATION What is it? We’re all aware of the soothing nature of a nice cup of tea.

But Cha dao (the “way of tea”) takes it a step further by using the preparation process to bring about a state of relaxed consciousness, using the ritual of a silent tea ceremony to create a frame of mindfulness.

Try it out: Luxe Nova hosts private tea meditation sessions on request. $800 for 1-2 people.

9/F, V Plus, 68 Wellington St., Central, 2898-0568, luxenova.life.

23

Dinner Parties

Plate It Up

Meet the health-conscious home chefs of Plate Culture Hong Kong.

By Myra Nazir

L

ooking for something a little different to your usual dinner date? Sick of the limited healthy or vegetarian options (not to mention the high prices) of conventional restaurants? Check out Plate Culture, a homegrown online platform connecting foodies who love to cook with foodies who love to eat. Often described as the AirBnB of home-cooked meals, diners pay chefs to serve and host a meal in their homes for a fun and intimate dinner party. We’ve picked some of our favourite home chefs with a healthy bent that you need to try.

24

Dinner Parties

Ying’s RunAway Kitchen TAI PO

|

$720 per head

Tucked away in remote Tai Po village, Ying’s RunAway Kitchen is situated at the end of a winding path surrounded by lush vegetation. If the weather’s nice, you’ll dine on the private rooftop overlooking a lake as the sun sets for a real rural escape. Originally from Suzhou, Ying offers a vegetarian or a pescatarian fivecourse set menu, with dishes inspired by Italian, Indian and Vietnamese cuisine. Standouts include the roasted eggplant and shrimp salad with chili fish sauce, or cinnamon apple cake with yoghurt.

Raw Asia: The Modern Origins MID-LEVELS

|

$480 to $840 per head

A mother and part-time marketing consultant with a background in fashion design, Kanch’s passion for Asian-inspired raw vegan haute cuisine led her to train with Matthew Kenney, one of the pioneers of the modern raw cooking movement. From almond chilli noodles to raw onion pakoras, Kanch’s

Ahimsa Vegan Pantry HONG KONG ISLAND

|

$600 per head

Nature’s food vegetarian & vegan dining CAUSEWAY BAY

Ahimsa Vegan Pantry is the brainchild of chefs Nicole and Flora, two Le Cordon Bleu graduates with a passion for promoting a healthy lifestyle. They particularly enjoy cooking for carnivores - showing them that vegan food can be rich in flavour and satisfying. The pair focus on making every element of their dishes from scratch - even dairy- and egg-free milks and meringues - and steer away from unhealthy, refined or highly processed ingredients. The signature dish is the spiced cauliflower steak. The chefs marinate a whole cauliflower in spiced and flavoured coconut milk overnight, before slowroasting. It’s then sliced up and served with beetrootinfused couscous for a splash of colour, then mixed with pistachio, herbs and dried apricot.

kitchen offers a variety of delicious and filling dishes made from fresh ingredients that are sourced as locally as possible. The standout dish is her artisanal masala vegan cheese plate, comprised of fermented tree nuts, pickled okra and papaya jelly, which takes more than three days to prepare.

|

$360 to $480 per head

A vegetarian for more than twenty years, home chef Cat is all about health and wellbeing. There are three set menus on offer: Tel Aviv Affair, Saigon Fever and Indo-Malay Taster, each offering vegetarian versions of traditional Israeli, Vietnamese and Malay cuisine respectively. Think vegan laksa, or Cat’s signature shakshuka, a classic Middle-Eastern dish of eggs poached in tomato and capsicum. Off-menu, there’s also a hearty vegan bibimbap that comes highly recommended. With a simple philosophy to cater fresh, simple and wholesome food, Cat sources local and organic wherever possible and is happy to accommodate her menu to vegan and gluten-free guests.

25

Dinner Parties

Authentic Vietnamese vegan cuisine from Karma Waters’ Chef TUEN MUN

|

$240 per person; $540 for a cooking class

Nguyen Thi Bao Duyen, also known as Grace, is the Founder of Karma Waters, a healthy lifestyle and eco tourism company in Vietnam. Now based here, Grace is no stranger to the world of vegan cooking, with two popular restaurants in Hoi An under her belt. With high rents and cramped spaces, however, Grace decided that Plate Culture was the best way for her to showcase her favourite homecooked Vietnamese cuisine in Hong Kong. Each set menu includes a banana smoothie, one soup, one dessert and two mains, though you’ll be hard-pressed to pick from the extensive menu that includes vegan pho, bahn mi, turmeric spring rolls and spicy vegetables with rice crackers. Grace is also an expert gluten-free baker, with waffles and muffins available at the end of the meal.

Find all these healthy home chefs - and more besides - at plateculture.com.

26

Karma Waters

Sow Vegan

Sow Vegan Private Dining KOWLOON

|

$528 per head

Specialising in both cooked and raw vegan dishes, Marium and Pamela of Sow Vegan support local farmers by cooking with seasonal organic vegetables grown locally in Hong Kong.

The standout dish on the five-course set menu - which also includes a chilled sweetcorn soup with basil oil, and a fennel and citrus salad - is the pumpkin gnocchi with sage oil and vegan citrus cheese sauce. The pillowy gnocchi complements the crunch of crushed nuts and the subtle sweetness of the pumpkin. Besides private dining, Sow Vegan also sells its own brand of vegan snacks and drinks at weekend fairs and pop-ups all over town.

Olive Leaf PAK KOK, LAMMA ISLAND $516 per head

|

For a real island getaway, book a table at Olive Leaf on your next day trip to Lamma. Set in a beautiful village house, Israeli chef Ayelet will cook up a storm, with no less than 12 dishes served sharing-style. Think hummus, flatbreads, herb salad with sumac, lentil salad, stuffed vine leaves, and teas, coffees, cookies and sparkling wine to round it off. Ayelet can cater for up to 12 guests, making this a unique spot for a birthday or celebration. Want something boozier? Olive Leaf also offers a whisky tasting dinner in the garden for $888 per head. Cooking classes also available.

27

Food

A rise in allergies and an increasing interest in our overall health has seen many reaching for healthier grains. And with a new wave of alternatives on the market, we are spoiled for choice when it comes to better-for-you carbs. Here are a few that taste great and pack a nutritional punch, too.

By Zoe Bellhomme.

28

Food

These little kernels are the unprocessed form of regular wheat and have a sweet, nutty flavour.

HEALTH BENEFITS: Wheat berries contain the bran, germ, and endosperm of the wheat kernel and so have lots of slow-burning complex carbohydrates, fibre and B Vitamins.

HOW TO EAT IT: Because of their tough exterior, wheat berries take a relatively long time to cook. You can soak them overnight which reduces the cooking time, but otherwise just place them in plenty of water and simmer in a covered pot for about an hour before adding them to a stir-fry, salad or stew.

They’re also great to bulk up a sauce with some protein if you’re not having meat or fish.

WHERE TO BUY IT: Green Dot Dot sells bags of Organic Garden wheat kernels at $14 per bag. Shop online at www.greendotdot.com or visit one of its many outlets citywide.

Rich in calcium, iron and protein, gluten-free teff is a highly-nutritious ancient grain from Ethiopia. It has flown under the radar in the West, but in its native country, the grain is a national obsession. Teff seeds are tiny - similar in size to poppy seeds - but are bursting with amino acids.

HEALTH BENEFITS: Teff has high levels of calcium, iron and Vitamin C. It’s great for anyone looking to lower their blood pressure as it’s low in sodium and saturated fat. The high fibre content can help regulate your bowel movements and it’s also known to reduce PMS symptoms.

HOW TO EAT IT: For those following a gluten-free diet, teff is an ideal substitute for wheat flour and can go in anything from bread and muffins to waffles and pizza bases. You can even make your own pasta or noodles.

WHERE TO BUY IT: Hu Organics sells Bob’s Red Mill wholegrain teff flour at $75 for a 680-gram bag. www.huorganics.com.

29

Food

With its sweet, nutty flavour, kamut, also called Khorasan wheat, is another ancient grain that boasts an impressive nutritional profile. Originating from Egypt, kamut is related to wheat but is found to be much more digestible.

HEALTH BENEFITS: In addition to being high in protein and fibre, kamut is an excellent source of selenium and manganese.

HOW TO EAT IT: After boiling, eat it hot in a pilaf or cold in a salad.

Kamut can also be milled and used instead of wheat flour in cookies, pizza, breads and pastas.

WHERE TO BUY IT: Organic Bliss has just about every kind of flour available, including einkorn, teff, quinoa, and yes - kamut. A bag is $42. 3 Haven St., Causeway Bay, 2362-2275, www.organicbliss. com.hk.

This Aztec staple has been cultivated and eaten for around 8,000 years and is similar in size, texture and taste to quinoa. Like quinoa, amaranth is not technically a grain, but the seed of the amaranth plant, meaning it is gluten-free.

HEALTH BENEFITS: The oils in amaranth is said to help lower cholesterol, blood pressure and reduce inflammation in the body.

Relatively unknown outside of the US and Africa, sorghum is a tall-growing cereal grain native to the African subcontinent.

HEALTH BENEFITS: Sorghum is a powerhouse of nutrients and antioxidants, and it can help regulate insulin and glucose levels, which aids in controlling diabetes. The grain also helps maintain good bone and digestive health.

30

HOW TO EAT IT: Ground into flour, sorghum can be used as a substitute for wheat flour. It can also be popped like popcorn or cooked into a risotto.

WHERE TO BUY IT: Family health store Little Giant sells sorghum flour at $39 a bag. 15/F Chung Wai Commercial Building, 447-449 Lockhart Rd., Causeway Bay, 2573-3610, www.littlegiant.com.hk.

HOW TO EAT IT: Amaranth is dense and when boiled becomes a bit of a mush. Given its malty flavour it works well as a porridge and makes an exceptional thickener for sauces, soups, stews, and even jellies.

WHERE TO BUY IT: huorganics.com sells Family Farm Organics amaranth at $27 for a 454-gram bag.

Spelt is an ancient relative of wheat originating from the Middle East. It boasts exceptional nutritional content because, unlike traditional wheat and other whole-grains, its kernels are not removed during milling. Therefore, high amounts of protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals are preserved.

HEALTH BENEFITS: Although it contains gluten, spelt flour has a high water solubility, making it easier to digest for those with a wheat intolerance. It’s one of the gentlest grains on your digestive tract so can help ease stomach problems.

HOW TO EAT IT: Spelt flour is often used in baked goods because the presence of gluten helps maintain the texture you’d expect. Spelt spaghetti is a great alternative to the traditional wheat variety and as it’s a slow release carb it will keep you feeling fuller for longer.

WHERE TO BUY IT: Organic Bliss also sells spelt flour at $60 per bag.

This ancient Arabic wheat is harvested while it’s green and young, before being roasted over an open fire. Inside the grain is firm and slightly chewy with a distinct earthy, nutty, and slightly smoky flavour.

HEALTH BENEFITS: Freekeh contains more vitamins and minerals, such as immune-boosting selenium, than almost any other grain. It is low in fat, high in protein and fibre, but it does contains gluten. Once in your stomach, it acts as a prebiotic, stimulating the growth of healthy bacteria that aid digestion.

HOW TO EAT IT: Freekeh is super versatile and works anywhere you might use couscous or rice.

Being from the Middle East, you’ll find freekeh in a number of Arabic dishes. For a light lunch try a freekeh salad with pomegranate, mint, pistachios, olive oil and lemon.

WHERE TO BUY IT: Turkish online store Let Pacific sells freekeh at $60 for a kilo. www.letpacificfood.com.

31

Food

HEALTHY RECIPE

SLOW-ROASTED HEIRLOOM CARROT SALAD

By Relish Kitchen (serves 6-8) This flavourful salad is vegan, filling and oh-so pretty to look at.

INGREDIENTS: • 300g baby heritage carrots, plus one extra carrot set aside • 50g olive oil • 2 pieces star anise • Peel from 1 orange • 100g organic red quinoa • 100g organic black quinoa • 1 onion, cut in half • 2 bay leaves • 400g vegetable stock • 100g coriander, chopped • 100g parsley, chopped • 40g edible flowers • 5 tbsp rapeseed oil • 2 Thai red chills • 4 Thai limes

DIRECTIONS: COOKING TIME: 1 hour including prep time

1. Place washed carrots into pan and cover with water. Add olive oil, star anise and orange peel, season the water with salt, and then cover pan with baking paper.

2. Bring the carrots to a simmer and cook until tender. Remove carrots and allow to steam dry - don’t rinse them.

3. Sweat the onion, carrot, bay leaves and red chili for 8 minutes on a low heat.

STORAGE:

Keeps for 2 days in the fridge.

32

4. Turn up heat. Add quinoa and toast it with the vegetables for 2 minutes.

5. Add stock, and bring to a simmer. Cover with baking paper and set timer for 14 minutes.

Stir the mix every 3 minutes.

6. Remove the quinoa and veggies from the pan and turn out on a flat baking tray in an even layer. Season with salt and pepper.

7. Once cold, toss in some mixed chopped nuts. Season to taste with lime juice and garnish with edible flowers and nuts.

Pamper

READY SET GLOW with Rachel Read

ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK Looking for a lovely natural perfume that lasts all day? Atelier Cologne’s newest scent, Clementine California, is definitely a fragrance that I’m happy to let linger. It smells of sunshine, summer and California dreaming - a sparkling sweet citrus cocktail of mandarin and clementine, with notes of juniper and vetiver to keep things interesting. Atelier Cologne uses no synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, GMOs or animal-derived ingredients, and it really shows in the quality of their creations.

Clementine California costs $650-1,600 for 30-200ml; available at Atelier Cologne boutiques in IFC, Central and Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui. www.ateliercologne.com

SPRING IN YOUR STEP Mong Kok probably isn’t many people’s first port of call for relaxation in Hong Kong… but those people probably haven’t visited Chaun Spa, an oasis of calm in the Cordis hotel. They’ve got an excellent pampering deal on right now: the "Spring Package" includes a onehour lymphatic body massage, a one-hour Thalgo facial, access to the hotel’s swimming pool (pictured), heat and water facilities and fitness studio, and a glass of sparkling wine to top it all off. It costs $1,600 (plus 10% service charge) and runs until April 30.

41/F, Cordis Hong Kong, Langham Place, 555 Shanghai St., Mong Kok, 3552-3510, www.chuanspa.com.hk.

34

LIP SERVICE Lipstick sales across the world are soaring - making the timing pretty perfect for Lipstick Queen’s first Hong Kong solo counter in FACESSS Harbour City. Created by lipstick obsessive Poppy King, this brand knows its speciality and isn’t afraid to stick to it, creating vivid and vibrant lip products made from non-harmful waxes, oils and pigments in every shade under the sun. Just launched are its pigment-packed Cupid’s Bow jumbo pencils, which work like a lipstick and lip-liner in one. Also worth checking out for the fun factor is the bestselling Frog Prince lippie - its emerald green colour reacts with your lips to create a flattering pink shade that’s different for every wearer. All hail the Lipstick Queen!

ASK THE EXPERT Monica Proctor Nutrition and Genetic Consultant, Dr. Lauren Bramley & Partners www.monica-proctor.com

Can you explain how genetic testing can help determine what’s the right diet for me?

DNA testing consists of a 30-second non-invasive cheek swab that is simple to administer. Recent

Lipsticks cost $220; available at FACESSS Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui. www.lipstickqueen.com.

clinical data found that the addition of genetically

MOST WANTED

glucose levels. In addition to your genetic data, your

Indie beauty brands are really rocking right now, and the latest to cross my radar is Singapore-based WANT. This minimalist, cruelty-free line is formulated from pure botanical oils and minerals, and is free from synthetic ingredients, preservatives, colours and fragrances. The brand also contributes to women’s cooperatives in Bali, Indonesia and Benin. Hero products include their Beet This honey cleanser, the Ginger Face scrub mask, and the super moisturising face oil. Shipping to Hong Kong is free for orders over $272 (that’s SGD50 in case you’re wondering why it’s such a random number).

Prices range from $49-376, with the full Natural Beauty Kit available for $812. www.wantskincare.com.

tailored diets resulted in better compliance, longerterm BMI reduction and improvements in blood practitioner will also take into account your health history, nutrition journal and existing blood lab test to come up with a personalised meal, fitness and supplement plan. In 21 days, clients reported a boost in energy levels, reduced bloating and waist-to-hip ratios. We then come up with a long term plan to maintain the results.

Paleo, juice cleanses, detox diets, low-carb, vegan, intermittent fasting… there are so many diets out there - what diet do you recommend?

There is no such thing as a universal diet that suits everyone. Yes, we can all agree on principles such as limiting processed foods, but a low-carbohydrate diet doesn’t suit everyone, especially if you have thyroid imbalances or adrenal dysfunction. The key is to take into account nutritional deficiencies, infections or

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.

toxins, and then maintain a diet that helps restore the gut. This in turns depends on food quality and quantity, timing and avoiding triggers that may cause food sensitivities, for instance. By listening carefully to your needs, lifestyle and genetics I am able to create a dietary approach that is most to suited to you.

More questions? Ask Monica at monica.proctor@ laurenbramleymd.com or join our next event on March 23 to learn more. Sign up at awa.org.hk.

Information presented by Dr. Lauren Bramley & Partners

Travel

Kicking off in Georgetown, the spectacular Penang Eco 100 on May 13-14 combines an intense running experience with Malay cultural heritage, writes Kris Van De Velde.

36

I

f you want to tackle an overseas trail running adventure, but lack the time to plan a long journey to a remote starting point, the Penang Eco 100 is the ideal race for you. Quick and convenient to get to from Hong Kong, the event starts and finishes just outside Georgetown, Penang’s famous main city. With spectacular scenery, Penang’s famous local cuisine and beautiful architecture and heritage to admire, the Penang Eco 100 has all the ingredients for a magnificent weekend trip to Malaysia.

This is the third edition of the Penang Eco 100 (it was previously known as Malaysia Eco 100), and the second year the organisers have included a 100-mile course on top of the more standard 100k, 50k and 30k races. It is the country’s SuperTrail race, and is part of the Asia Trail Master championship series. This means that finishers score

Travel

bonus points toward their final score, and as a result the event attracts some of the best trail runners in Asia. It is no coincidence then that the two winners of last year’s 100-mile race, Manolito Divina from the Philippines and local hero Tahira Najmunisaa Muhammad Zaid, both became the 2016 Asia Trail Master champions later in the year.

The event is organised by Endurance Nature, the company managed by Mr Seow Kong Ng, a huge name on the Asian ultrarunning scene. A runner himself, Seow knows what competitors and their

accompanying partners look for in order to ensure a successful and memorable weekend. For instance, there are shuttle buses from Georgetown to the eco village of Sungai Lembu or Tokun Hill in Bukit Mertajam, the official start and finishing points of all four races.

Participants will run through palm, rubber and pineapple plantations, several Malay kampungs (settlements) Chinese villages, Indian temples and paddy fields.

As for elevation, the route takes you over the challenging hills of Seraya, Mengkuang, 37

Travel

and the by now iconic Tokun Hills, which is also the starting point for the 100-mile event. You will get up close with Malaysian landscapes, discover the local flora and fauna, and learn more about the region’s cultural heritage. Runners will also meet ordinary Malaysian people living in rural areas. During the race, you will also get to sample local cuisine in the food and drinks provided at the aid stations along the course of the race.

Technically speaking, the elevation gain in the four races is not excessive. Good runners will like this trail as there are plenty of socalled “runnable” sections. The main difficulty for most people is the heat and humidity, which is unavoidable in Malaysia. But if you hydrate well before and during the race, you will have a very enjoyable day together with runners from all over Asia and beyond.

Learn more and register at www.endurancenature.com.my.

After the race Most runners prefer to stay in Georgetown after the race.

There is accommodation of every class, from hostels to five-star properties. While you’re there, make sure to leave time to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, which was first settled by the British in 1786.

Win race tickets!

We are giving away a free race entry to the Penang Eco 100 on May 13-14, 2017. Visit liv-magazine.com/giveaways to enter!

38

Hotel Spotlight

WELL ON THE ROAD Healthy hotels for your next long weekend

W Sentosa Cove, Singapore THE SCOOP: They’re not kidding when they call this tucked-away corner of Sentosa a cove: you really do feel like you’ve somehow managed to find a secret spot in the city state. The property, on the far southern tip of Sentosa Island, is about as remote as Singapore gets. The hotel is nestled inside a man-made jungle, while the massive pool overlooking the marina only adds to the resort feel.

THE CROWD: Overstressed urbanites and holidaymakers in need of a crucial moment of peace from the rest of Singapore.

WELLNESS: The “AWAY Spa” is an oasis in the middle of the jungle. It’s all sleek curved lines and futuristic fixtures, and the vitality pools and massage showers really make it a spot you’ll want to linger. We went for an hour-long sports massage, and our attentive therapist masterfully unkinked our sore muscles. We extended our stay to include time in the steam room and vitality pool; and walked away after a few hours’ escape feeling totally renewed.

BEST BIT: We want to give a special shout out to the service.

Logistically speaking, dealing with the AWAY Spa was totally stressfree: the service was impeccable, even when we had to reschedule at the last minute. The W even runs shuttles around Sentosa to reduce the stress of getting to the cove in the first place.

BOTTOM LINE: If you find yourself in Singapore for more than a few days, the AWAY Spa at the W Sentosa Cove is a perfect respite.

It’s hands-down one of the best luxury spas in the city state.

RATES: We booked the W Sentosa Cove through theluxenomad. com. Room rates hover around $2,000 but go up depending on your room category. Right now, the hotel is doing an Island Fling spa promotion throughout March and April, where you can get an hour-long massage and hydrating facial for SG280 (HKD 1,541, plus service charge and tax). www.wsingaporesentosacove.com.

40

Travel

TRAVEL WELL with Kate Springer

CHECK OUT: Four Seasons Golden Triangle Tented Camp The only all-inclusive Four Seasons hotel, the Golden Triangle Tented Camp is all about rustic luxury, featuring 15 kitted-out tents, a separate two-bedroom Explorer’s Lodge for families and an incredible jungle spa.

WHERE IS IT? In Northern Thailand, right by the Golden Triangle - where Laos, Thailand, Myanmar converge. It’s about an hour’s drive north of Chiang Rai, available via two-hour direct flight onboard HK Express.

WHY CHIANG RAI? It’s a relatively untouched region of Thailand, so you won’t have to worry about tour buses and constant crowds.

HOW’S THE FOOD? Northern Thai food is a far cry from your usual pad Thai and creamy coconut curries. You’ll find a lot of stewlike dishes, as well as pork and chicken in everything. At the camp, the chef’s signature khao soi curry is a must-try. Inspired by the culinary traditions of the surrounding hill 42

tribes, it’s full of crunchy noodles, savoury broth and hearty chunks of chicken.

DID YOU SAY ELEPHANTS? Sharing a massive 18,000-hectare plot of land with the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation, the Camp is home to roaming elephants that have been rescued from Thai cities. Four Seasons runs mahout training programs, where you can learn to properly feed, wash and ride elephants bare-back through the countryside - all using Thai commands.

BUT IT’S A “TENTED CAMP”... Don’t worry - there are no sleeping bags in sight. You’ll finish every day in a decadent 19th-century styled safari tent, complete with a claw-foot tub, outdoor rain shower, king-size bed and complimentary minibar.

Travel

SNAPPY HAPPY We all hate selfie sticks - I am right there with you. But sometime’s it’s impossible to get a decent shot of yourself on holiday... until now. Enter WanderSnap, a new company that works with low-opportunity youth photography students in 30 countries and counting. Essentially, you’ll hire a local photographer and choose from four types of photo services - DSLR, mobile, aerial and underwater - to capture every adventure.

In return, your young photographer-forhire gets to hone their skills, build their confidence and practice their English.

From US$25 an hour; wandersnap.co.

FAIR WARNING: This is not a budget getaway. Expect to spend about $18,000 per night. Yes, it’s steep, but on the upside, rates include all food and drink, elephant training, excursions, a spa treatment, and private roundtrip transfers from Chiang Rai International airport.

P.O. Box 18, Chiang Saen Post Office, Chiang Rai, Thailand, +66 53 910-200, www.fourseasons.com/goldentriangle

ONE-STOP WELLNESS SHOP If you’re a fan of Mr & Mrs Smith’s curated list of boutique hotels, then you’ll love TURASÓIR. Focusing on fitness and wellness travel, Turasoir is a helpful new site that shortlists healthy retreats all over the world. The selection covers all our favourite categories: yoga retreats, detox getaways, gritty bootcamps, top-notch menus, outdoor adventures, and extra luxurious resorts. From a “wildfitness” mountain refuge in Crete to a yoga and surfing getaway in Bali, TURASÓIR vets each retreat to ensure it will leave you feeling relaxed and recharged. turasoir.com.

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.

43

Family

FIT FAM with Kate Farr

While we’re temporarily soaking up the sun after this year’s unusually short winter, Mouldy March is now imminent, so dig out those dehumidifiers! Meanwhile, read on for a healthy new water bottle that won’t soak your stuff, a truckload of science and technology activities for enquiring young minds, and some fitness #squadgoals to get the little ones up and running in time for summer.

BECAUSE, SCIENCE If your little scientists have blown a hole in your roof with the old Cokeand-Mentoes rocket trick, all the bicarb has been used to make vinegar volcanoes, and your remote controls lie in pieces, then it’s time for a little positive redirection. Co-organised by the British Council, Science Alive runs from March 4-17 at the Hong Kong Science Museum, offering kids from five to teens the chance to learn all sorts of fascinating STEM facts. With superhero-themed workshops learning about lasers, and more serious lectures for older teens on genetic testing and the impact of renewable energy, there’s a topic here to tickle everyone’s grey matter.

It's free of charge, though workshops require advance registration.

For more information visit britishcouncil.hk.

HOLD MY DRINK I have HUGE news for this month’s column, as I believe that I have finally found that ultimate parenting Holy Grail: the leak-free drinks cup. Made from antibacterial stainless steel with medical-grade silicone tops, Pura bottles are BPA and EA-free, durable and extremely easy to clean.

However, more importantly still, my rigorous testing - consisting of several days out with both the toddler-friendly straw top, and the big brother-approved sport top bottles thrown into the darkest depths of my bag - have resulted in ZERO leaks so far. Now if that’s not public service journalism, then I don’t know what is. $150-$165. Available online at plasticfreehk.com.

44

Family

WOD THIS WAY Who says gyms are just for grown-ups? The Active By Coastal programme gives the littlest members of the #fitfam a chance to get in on the action. Running between now and June 17, the programme aims to improve kids’ fitness and emotional wellbeing while educating them about healthy living in a fun, accessible way. Five to seven-year-olds can attend the Little Developers classes, while those from eight to 11 can hit up the Young Developers sessions. There’s a 50 percent discount available for sibs wanting to join in the fun, so the whole squad can train together.

Costs $2,500 for 10 sessions. For more information visit coastalfitnesshk.com/classes/active-by-coastal.

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

Hong Kong

Osteopathic

Association

AN EFFECTIVE APPROACH TO PREVENTING AND TREATING INJURY Knee, leg and ankle injuries Hip and pelvic injuries Shoulder, elbow and wrist injuries Neck and back strains

OSTEOPATHY + SPORT You can find your local Osteopath on the directory of the association. www.osteopathy.org.hk

45

The Guide WELLNESS CLINICS Alive Wellness

A fairly new complementary therapy centre in Central, Alive Wellness offers a huge range of therapies, including acupuncture, craniosacral therapy, kirtan, lymphatic drainage, physiotherapy and mediation.

Room 602, Yu Yuet Lai Building, 43-55 Wyndham St., Central, 2541-8600, alivewellness.hk.

Balance Health

Teatments are divided into three streams: natural medicine, physical therapies and mind-body connection.

With more than 30 types of treatment available, Balance Health’s specialties include chronic pain, stress, allergies, women’s health and digestive issues, to name a few. 27/F, Universal Trade, Centre, 3-5 Arbuthnot Rd., Central, 2530-3315, www.balancehealth.com.hk.

Byrne, Hickman & Partners

One of Hong Kong’s longestestablished physiotherapy practices.

Offers treatment for sports injuries, post-operative rehabilitation and clinical Pilates, and can also help to treat chronic and posture-related pain.

13/F and 17/F Kailey Tower, 16 Stanley St., Central, 2523-7121, imi.com.hk.

Mind N Life

Clinical psychologist Dr. Quratulain Zaidi runs a family-friendly psychology practice. A particular area of interest for her is tech addiction. Can also help with problems such as anxiety, stress/ burnout and sleep issues, as well as more urgent psychological issues such as depression, bipolar disorder and self-harm. Patients are seen at The London Medical Clinic or at On Lan Street, Central. www.mindnlife.com

Soholistic Wellness Centre

Formerly the New Age Shop, Soholistic offers various alternative therapies, including kinesiology, health coaching and hypnotherapy. If you’re into more fringe therapies, it also offers tarot reading, past life regression and chakra therapy.

1/F, 7 Old Bailey St., Central,

Room 201, Dina House, Ruttonjee Centre,

2810-8694, www.soholistic.asia.

11 Duddell St., Central,

The Sanctuary

2526-7533, www.byrne-hickman.com.

Also has clinics in TST, Repulse Bay and Sha Tin.

Integrative Medicine Institute

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

46

health services, though it also has a conventional medical practice. For aches and pains, it has osteopathy, chiropractic, TCM and acupuncture.

More left-of-field treatments include reiki, colourpuncture, iridology and crystal healing, among others.

Recently relocated to Wellington Street, The Sanctuary has a huge menu of alternative health treatments, from the mainstream (massage, meditation, hot stone reflexology) to the fringe (past life regression, energy healing, reiki). Regularly hosts visiting healers and wellness events. Unit 902, 9/F,

Waga Commercial Centre, 99 Wellington St., Central, 2537-1373, thesanctuary.com.hk.

Sports and Spinal

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

15/F, Winway Building, 50 Wellington St., Central, 2530-0073, sportsandspinal.hk.

UP! Health

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

ONLINE HEALTH FOOD STORES Life Project

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

Lifeproject.hk.

Lotus Mart

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

Profood

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

www.lotusmart.com.

One Vegan Shop

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

Nutri Alley

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

Nutrialley.com.

CROSSFIT Coastal Fitness

Founded by former Hong Kong rugby star Ed Haynes, Coastal Fitness takes a community-driven approach to health and fitness. The gym’s Energy System Training program aims to equip you with long-term fitness development through mobility drills, running, squatting, kettlebells, Olympic weightlifting and a battery of tests to ensure continued progress.

3/F, Block C, Sea View Estate, 8 Watson Rd., North Point, 2512-2262, www.coastalfitnesshk.com.

CrossFit 852

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

CrossFit Typhoon

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

Fitness Academy

A group of CrossFit friends turned business partners are behind this box in Quarry Bay. Fitness Academy champions everyday athletes who want to perform better in various sports, improve their metabolic conditioning, or just get in shape.

Shop D, 901-907 King’s Rd., Quarry Bay, 3708-8190, fitnessacademyhk.com.

LRCF Fitness Box

Situated between Mong Kok and Olympic, LRCF is currently Kowloon side’s only box. Its primary focus is on offering one-on-one conditioning programs that address your needs and help to improve your CrossFit technique.

25 Tong Mi Rd., Mong Kok, 2658-6218, www.lrcffitnessbox.club.

Reebok CrossFit Asphodel

Back in 2010, Reebok Crossfit Asphodel was the very first CrossFit box to open up in Hong Kong. What started as a relatively bare-bones club has evolved into a powerful community of experienced strength training and functional movement specialists.

GF, Fook Hing Factory Building, 33 Lee Chung St., Chai Wan, 3568-7719, www.crossfitasphodel.com.

47

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

ONLINE COUPON 10% off on all purchases

ReSource The Counselling Centre

LIVMAG10

E MP O W E R YO U RS E L F S E E K CO U N S E L L I N G

ENTER COUPON CODE WITH NEXT PURCHASES to enjoy 10% discount ON:

We offer Counselling for individuals, couples, families & adolescents A sliding fee scale is in place to provide an affordable option for all clients. ReSource is a Multicultural organization that provides counselling in English, Cantonese, Putonghua, Hindi, Marathi and Marwadi.

www.goldnutrition.asia excellence in sports nutrition

info@goldnutrition.asia

*COUPON CODE valid until may 31, 2017

Your Small Business Here and underneath: visit see l iv - m ag az ine .co m/a d s to learn more

GOT 250 BUCKS IN YOUR POCKET? Put down that bag of organic quinoa grow your business with us instead. li v - maga z in e.com /a ds

Day time/Evening Appointments Call us 2523 8979 http://www.resourcecounselling.org 23/F, Li Dong Building, 9 Li Yuen Street East, Central, Hong Kong Serving the Community for 40 years A Member Agency of The Community Chest

W A N N A LI V ?

Pick up a copy of Hong Kong’s wellness magazine at 150 locations citywide Le Meridien Cyberport

International Fitness Studio

HAPPY VALLEY/ WAN CHAI

Iyara

Feather & Bone

Mum Veggie+Coffee+Sweet

Iyara Hair Spa

Food for Life

Sense of Touch

Coffee Academics

Iyara Mid-Levels

Iyara

Stanley Wellness Centre

Lululemon

Just Green

Just Green - St.Francis Street

TREE

RC Outfitters

Just Green

Le Pain Quotidien

Yoga Aloha

Le Pain Quotidien

OVO Cafe

CENTRAL

Mandarin Oriental Hotel

Stone Nullah Tavern

Optimum Performance Studio

Utime

Options Studio Pilates

SAI YING PUN

Ovolo

Garage Collective

Paul Gerrard

High Street Bar & Grill

Pause

Jaspas

Pololi

Just Green

Posto Pubblico

Kim Robinson + Hair Salon

Pure Fitness

Locofama

Sane Fitness

Mana Cafe

Sense of Touch LKF

Optimum Performance Studio TST

Opendoor Cafe

Sohofama

RC Outfitters Mong Kok

Sense of Touch

Thann Spa TST

SHEUNG WAN Spicebox Organics

United Services Recreation Club

Topfit

DELIVERIES

Ursus Fitness

FoodCraft

Utime

Qualitarian

Warrior Academy

Spicebox Organics

Yoga Bam Bam

Yumtake

CAUSEWAY BAY

Impakt MMA

10/10 Space Asia Yogies Bodywize

A Day With Fe Alive Wellness Annerley Balance Health Barre 2 Barre Be-Juiced Bikini Fit Browhaus Byrne Hickman & Partners Caffe Habitu Catch Juicery Cedele Central Health City Osteopathy Crafty Cow Crossfit 852 Dr. Sue Jamieson Dr. Lauren Bramley & Partners Epic MMA Epic Yoga Fast Beauty

Soholistic Sparadise Strip Thann The Right Spot Torq Ultimate Performance UP! Health Urban Bakery

KENNEDY TOWN Butcher & Baker Cafe

Feather & Bone

SHEUNG WAN/ MID-LEVELS

Feel Good Factor

BounceLimit

Fish & Meat

Caelum Greene

Fitness Compass

Chicken on the Run

Flawless

Corner Kitchen Cafe

Flex

Emmanuel F Salon

Fresca

Grassroots Pantry

Glow

Kinnet Cafe

SOUTHSIDE/ CYBERPORT

H-Kore

Knead

Beauty Nest

Health Concept

Maya Cafe Takeaway

Byrne Hickman

Healthy Chicken

Odinson

Chicken on the Run

HOME eat to live

OVO Cafe

Classified

Hong Kong Emergency Medicine Centre

Queen’s Garden

Core + Epic Southside

Supafood

Flex Studio

I-Detox

Versus Performance

Food For Life

Immortal Fitness

Yoga Room

Hotshot

Foodcraft Jaspas Little Creatures Spicebox Organics The Hive Utime

Limewood

ISLAND EAST Food for Life Healthy Chicken Ryze Treats, Cityplaza KOWLOON/NEW TERRITORIES Bounce Inc Chuan Spa Little Cove Espresso

Back Page

I’m a Korean-American originally from New York City, and have been living in Hong Kong for the past 11 years.

However, practical solutions - such as widespread separation and collection of domestic recycling waste - remains somewhat in the dark ages.

I met [Redress founder] Christina Dean while I was recruiting leaders in the charity world to benefit from a weeklong scholarship program at Harvard Business School.

We have limited space. There’s a lack of space on roads for recycling containers, and for large-scale industrial parks to address recycling on a large scale.

It’s a sad reality that our high land prices don’t just make it hard to find affordable housing. It’s also an obstacle towards investing in recycling technologies and businesses on our own doorstep.

In the process, I learned more about Redress and about the environmental and education work they do in the fashion and textile industry.

Eventually Christina recruited me to join her team.

B Y T was born from Redress, a charity with a mission to reduce waste in the fashion industry.

It is a for-profit extension, implementing the waste-reducing methods championed by Redress.

B Y T is code for a new attitude and lifestyle around fashion. It’s what it means to you, and it can always change. For Christina, it means “be yourself today” and for me, it means “beautiful yet thoughtful.”

The fashion and textile industry is the second biggest environmental polluter globally, and the second biggest polluter of clean water. We hope for a future where the words “sustainable fashion” will no longer be used, because fashion will become inherently more sustainable.

Throughout my career and life choices, I have decided to pursue my interests and passions with an approach to learning and to doing good.

We want our community to love wearing our clothes, to love the values that we champion, and we want to see the B Y T lifestyle being celebrated stylishly around the world.

Michelle Bang was the winner of Chivas the Venture, a competition that awards winners with funds for their startups. BYT launches in early September 2017 at the EcoChic Design Award’s grand final competition.

The great news is that Hong Kong is much more aware of waste. It’s hard to ignore the issue when we’re constantly reminded of our overflowing landfills.

HOW I LIV

MICHELLE BANG A former fashion merchandiser and a board member of environmental NGO Redress, Michelle Bang is the founder of B Y T, a startup that addresses the issue of waste in the fashion industry by turning surplus fabrics from design houses into affordable clothing. She tells Andrea Lo about her journey.

50

HONG KONG’S

PREMIER BESPOKE JEWELLER S u i t e 3 1 1 , 3 / F, O f f i c e To w e r, L i p p o S u n P l a z a , 2 8 C a n t o n R o a d , Ts i m S h a Ts u i +852 3114 7111

info@didisgroup.com

D i d i ’ s J e w e l l e r y H o n g Ko n g

didisgroup.com didisjewellery