Liv Magazine November 2022

Meditative Moment A

Take five minutes in your busy day for a cup of METZ Luxury Tea to boost your productivity and wellbeing.

Whether you work from home or in an office, it is vital to take regular breaks to centre yourself, take your mind away from work, and restore a sense of balance. Not only will it make your work better, you will enjoy feel less stressed and more grounded.

METZ Luxury Tea shows you how to perform a mini team meditation in five easy steps.

1. Choose a favourite song or meditation podcast, then put your phone on Airplane mode.

2. Fill your kettle with fresh water and turn it on.

3. Prepare your cup, saucer, spoon, teapot (if you have one) and METZ tea teabag. We prefer a glass or borosilicate cup so you can watch the colours develop. If you can, find a quiet corner with a beautiful view, somewhere you won’t be disturbed by colleagues.

4. Place your teabag in your cup and pour hot water over the tea. Spend three to five minutes just watching the tea brew and try to clear your mind of distractions as you do so.

5. When it’s ready, remove the tea bag, sip your tea and try to identify the complex aromas and flavours of your brew. Resist the temptation to scroll through your emails!

Visit metztea.hk to learn more and order online

Our Favourite Mindful METZ Luxury Tea picks

Organic Blue Nile Camomile 971

Known for its calming properties, Camomile is a caffeine-free tea that is designed to relax the nervous system. METZ Luxury Tea’s blend has notes of crabapple and lavender. Serve with a squeeze of lemon or a spoonful of honey.

Ayurvedic Balance 936

A blend designed to optimise your wellbeing, from your digestion to your complexion, this wellness tea contains peppermint, spearmint, ginger, chamomile, hibiscus and rose - among others - to restore balance during a busy work day.

Turmeric Ginger

Life’s a Peach

Newly launched in Hong Kong, MUSE The Skin Company is an Australian skincare brand dedicated to nourishing the skin on an often-overlooked part of our body - our butts.

Founder Tan Boonsirisuk tells us about what gave her the inspiration to launch a product specifically targeted towards our booties.

Tell us how you came to found MUSE.

I’m Asian, and my mother introduced me to traditional Asian beauty and rejuvenation secrets such as cupping, scraping, and scrubbing, as well as ingredients such as turmeric, kaffir lime and bird’s nest. Growing up, I was obsessed with skincare and beauty, and I can honestly say I’ve tried most beauty products on the market.

Eight years ago when I was pregnant with my daughter, Poppy, I noticed that my butt and its skin had changed dramatically. I developed huge, white stretch marks, acne and an uneven skin tone due to hormonal changes. I searched relentlessly, but there was nothing in the market formulated for butt skin conditions.

I remember thinking, “Well, I’m

going to create my own butt skincare – surely there are people out there with the same problem.” But when I shared the idea with friends and family, everyone’s reaction was “Is this a good idea? No one will buy butt skincare, people are too embarrassed, they don’t even want to talk about butts in public!”

After endless conversations with my close friend who is a cosmetic chemist, I decided it was time to take action. I started attending skincare workshops, learning how to make natural skincare, and doing extensive research on native Australian ingredients and their benefits. Five years later, MUSE was conceptualised and Butt Gloss Oil was born.

What gap in the skincare market does Muse fill?

After I run a market research prior to the brand launch, it was clear to me that there were so many people who suffered from butt skin concerns but never spoke about it to anyone or too

embarrassed to see a specialist. These people range from professionals, fitness enthusiasts, new mums, bridesto-be, tanning product users and wellness coaches.

Obviously there was a lack of butt care products in the market. I wanted to create a high-quality butt care that deliver the best results with powerful Australian ingredients that firm, hydrate, and clear the skin.

Tell us more about butt gloss oil! Butt Gloss Oil is an absolute gamechanger. Loaded with certified organic oils, natural vitamin E, native Australian Juniper Berry, it’s designed to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, cellulite and dark spots while gently resurfacing the skin to enable delivery of vital nutrients. It is also excellent on Keratosis Pilaris and hard, rough butt skin. We’ve had an overwhelming amount of feedback from our customers on how effective it has been for them.

LETTER MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS

GEN-Z FROM THE BLOCK

It’s common wisdom that different generations have different personalities. Case in point: I’m a millennial, a generation famous for being overeducated, history’s first digital natives, and cravenly dependent on avocado toast.

Although it’s apparently in my millennial nature to foster self-obsession and narcissism, I thought it was about time we share the limelight with a new cohort. Born after 1996, Generation Z is the first peer group to grow up with the internet. They’re characterised by their progressive views, vigorous activism, and the compassion they extend to both others and themselves. In short, they sound pretty cool.

For our cover story this month, we reached out to five Gen Zers - or “zoomers” as I learned - who are making waves in our local health and wellness sector. Ranging from 16 to 26, these wellpreneurs are already launching businesses, nonprofits and movements in Hong Kong, striving to make our city a healthier place. Read more about these inspiring young people on p.20

Self-love never goes out of style. If you’ve been looking for something to give your confidence a boost, we humbly suggest booking yourself in for a boudoir photography session! Not only do these local photographers do a bang-up job capturing your best angle, you’ll have a stunning reminder of how hot you are for years to come. Find out the best boudoir photography salons in town on p.26

Consider reducing your footprint this month by downloading a local food rescue app - we have a list of them on p.10 - or by making your own cleaning products (p.34).

And in beauty news, we’ve tried out the Hydrafacial, a new style of dermabrasion treatment, and hair extensions. Find those over on p.32 and p.14, respectively.

Have a lovely November, and may abundance visit you in the form of avocadobased brunches this month.

Aarohi Narain explains why switching to oil perfumes over alcohol-based ones is better for the planet and your body on p.18.

CARLA THOMAS EDITOR

facebook.com/livmagazine.hk liv.magazine, #livmagazine

www.liv-magazine.com

The Hydrafacial is the hottest new beauty treatment in town, and Sarah Fung gives it a whirl on p.32.

ON THE COVER

Photographer: Ike Li Featuring (clockwise from left): Shrestha Bidhya, Cherry Bailey, Ashley Chan Shan Shan, Steph Ng

Say hi hello@liv-magazine.com work with us hello@liv-magazine.com

PUBLISHER SARAH FUNG HEAD OF PARTNERSHIPS ANSHU RIJHWANI PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER MIREILLE CORNELIS EDITOR CARLA THOMAS ADMINISTRATOR

GRAPHIC DESIGN TAMMY TAN CONTRIBUTORS AAROHI NARAIN, IKE LI PRINTED BY GEAR PRINTING LIMITED,

ROAD, ABERDEEN

following

health

Send invites and info to: Makerhive, 10/F, Cheung Hing Industrial Building, 12P Smithfield, Kennedy Town

WISHLIST

Here's what we're crushing on this month

DOUBLE HEADER

There’s nothing Canadians love more than a toque (pronounced tuke). Stay toasty and embrace laidback chic with this two-toned toque (or beanie, if you must), made with super-soft cashmere. $2,500 from Canada Goose

CHAIN GANG

We love a Keith Haring moment, and this gorgeous gold and sterling silver link bracelet inspired by the late artist is no exception. It’s elegant, and carries a thoughtful message for the world to see. $1,999 from Pandora

SMILE LIKE YOU MEAN IT

This cutting-edge toothpaste can actually help head off early-stage cavities and repair your tooth enamel. Bonus: it’s enriched with edelweiss extract and whitens your teeth, too!

$280 at JOYCE Beauty

FLARE UP

Are leggings still leggings if they’re flared? Either way, we’re into these olive-green wool-blend “leggings” from UNIQLO’s fall collection. Pair with a smart black turtleneck and you’re sure to impress. $149 from UNIQLO

CUTTING EDGE

You call that a knife? This Moschino brooch might appear like basic cutlery, but it’s actually shiny, petite and looks utterly stylish pinned on the lapel of a fall blazer. A guaranteed conversation-starter!

$1,500 by Moschino

CRYSTAL CLEAR

Sure, you could get your H2O out of a regular water bottle and you’d probably survive (barely). But gulping down water after it’s been energetically charged by crystals? That’s the good sh*t right there.

$590 from Kurios

BIRK IT, GIRL

If you’ve ever wondered what walking on a cloud might feel and look like, these are the Birkenstocks for you. Cold-weather sandals have never looked so appealing!

$1,900 from Lane Crawford

A STAR IS BORN

Don’t forget to get your advent calendar lined up this month! We recommend this stunning celestial-inspired offering by French candlemaker diptyque, which is sure to sell out quicker than a shooting star.

$3,750 at diptyque

SOUND IT OUT

Calling all office workers in Taikoo Place! This Swire-owned office network really walks the talk when it comes to employee wellbeing; they’ve launched +UP! Better Living Pop-ups, a two-month programme of immersive “sounditation” and fitness classes through October and November at their ArtisTree event space. Taking place over lunchtime for a nominal fee of $100, the classes are led by Himlayan singing bowl master Tsang Man-tung. Classes are extremely popular, but we hear there will be more added; check their website for the latest availability. You can also check out the irresistibly stylish UP+ Better Living x Kapok pop-up store, which sells wellness-focused homewares and lifestyle products, open until November 25.

1/F, Cambridge House, 979 King’s Rd., Quarry Bay, bit.ly/3Th8ceJ

THRILLER (JUST OUTSIDE) MANILA

With the borders finally (more or less!) open, everyone in Hong Kong is talking about where they’re going to travel first! Top of our list is The Philippines, not least because there are three daily flights to Manila, making it an easy-peasy short-haul jaunt. So why not make this the year you finally check out The Farm, a sprawling medical wellness resort a mere 90-minute drive from Manila? One of the world’s pioneering retreats, this spectacular destination welcomes visitors from all over the world for bespoke science-based medical and holistic treatments set on 51 hectares of lush jungle. If you really want to optimise your health, recover mentally and physically from the past few years, and get out of Hong Kong on a wellness-boosting vacation, here’s your chance: The Farm is offering Liv readers a whopping 30 percent off all packages! Just mention Liv when enquiring to redeem the offer. thefarmatsanbenito.com

CENTRE STAGE

If you’ve been itching for a night out at the theatre we’ve got just the ticket for you! I’mperfect is the latest production from Hong Kong Youth Arts Foundation (HKYAF). It’s a theatrical performance tackling issues like body dysmorphia, the unreality of social media, and female friendships, through the magic of theatre, dance, music and video. Written and directed by HKYAF founder Lindsey McAlister, the play tells the story of three young women who meet in a chat room, each creating their own online reality that belies their real-world struggles to achieve perfection. What’s more, the production features an all-female cast of 35 talented young actors and dancers. Tickets cost $250-$300 (concession $220-$260). Book online at popticket.hk/event/imperfect.

From November 10-12 at Shouson Theatre, Hong Kong Arts Centre, 2 Harbour Rd., Wan Chai, hkyaf.com/events/935

DOWN BY THE BAY

Come one, come all to Kennedy Town Waterfront this month, where you’ll find The Bay Market, a new sustainablyoriented flea market concept taking place on November 12. Savvy shoppers can peruse dozens of different stalls selling everything from secondhand clothing, jewellery and accessories to artwork, homewares and small to mid-sized furniture. Modelled after European flea markets, the aim of this new initiative is to share and repurpose goods that need a new home (one that isn’t the landfill.)

Worked up an appetite after an afternoon of bartering? There are F&B booths on hand, and live music performances throughout the day to keep you entertained. From 2-8pm. IG: @the_bay_market

GOING UP

Sustainable Travel

We’re embracing a slower, more conscious style of travelling now that the borders have reopened. Be sure to support homestays, ecolodges, and other sustainable ventures on your next trip abroad.

Hairy Crab Season

Get your fill of this autumnal delicacy while it lasts - and don’t let anyone say you’re shellfish for doing it!

Butter Boards

The polarising stepchild of charcuterie, the jury’s still out on whether we support this viral food trend.

Laptops in Bed

This is one bad habit we plan to break... just as soon as we’re all caught up on House of the Dragon!

FRESH CUTS

WASTE

NOT

Local food rescue initiatives slowly but surely chipping away at Hong Kong’s insatiable waste habit.

By Aarohi Narain

Around 3,600 tonnes of food waste gets added to Hong Kong’s mounting landfills - that’s the equivalent of 275 double-decker buses or 16,500,000 mooncakes - every single day! In a bid to reduce our city’s dizzying food waste problem, these local initiatives are stepping up, from redistributing baked goods to rescuing snacks, pantry staples, condiments and more. Here’s how you can support them:

Feeding HK

Hong Kong may be known as a world-class dining destination, but too many in our city still struggle to afford three meals a day. Sadly, the pandemic has only worsened that situation. Since 2009, volunteers with Feeding HK have been saving surplus food from various F&B partners, and delivering it to frontline charities, including shelters and crisis centres. This established nonprofit frequently works with corporate partners and schools to broaden its community and impact, and they are always in need of volunteers to help drive vans to and from food rescue locations, manage inventory at their warehouse, and coordinate food rescue runs.

feedinghk.org

Breadline

Bread and pastries have a notoriously short shelf life, making it difficult to

rescue and repurpose. That’s why they deserve an app that’s all their own! Breadline saves end-of-the-day bread -and redistributes it to Hong Kong’s most vulnerable communities. How it works: volunteers go on “bread runs” to cafes and bakeries across the city, collect several bags’ worth of bread, and deliver them to grassroots partners who will hand them out to those in need. Breadline’s handy app updates in real time, so volunteers and partners can easily coordinate their exchanges to maximise food saved. Breadline is currently looking for volunteers, so reach out directly if you’re keen to be part of their mission.

breadline.hk/welcome

CHOMP

Spice up your next meal with a Mystery Box from food-saving app CHOMP! Launched earlier this year, CHOMP’s intuitive platform

Feeding HK

Feeding HK

Breadline

GreenPrice

lets customers purchase a box of unsold goods or items with a short shelf life from F&B businesses like restaurants, grocery stores and bakeries. Dim sum, tea, chocolate and more are all up for grabs from participating vendors, such as beloved bulk grocery chains like Live Zero and Slowood to plantpowered eateries like Root Vegan, 404plant, Protein & Plants, and Le Fromage by Ma. Each purchase is paired with a brief description of what your box will contain, as well as practical allergen info. The team is constantly adding new vendors. We also recommend following CHOMP’s Instagram (@chompfoodwaste), which regularly shares clever tips and tricks for reducing your food waste at home. chomphk.com/home

GreenPrice

Did you know that a “best before” date is not the same thing as an expiration date? Products that are past their best before date are still completely safe to eat - it’s more of a suggestion from the brand on how to experience the optimal quality

of their products. Asia’s first shortdated goods retailer GreenPrice is on a mission to raise awareness of this practice, and reduce food waste associated with it. Partnering with retailers across the city, GreenPrice stocks its shelves with surplus foods that are past their “best before” date at deep discounts. It’s a great place to stock up on beloved brands, or discover new snacks, supplements, and more that you may not have tried otherwise. Reducing waste while saving money - we love a good deal! 99 Wellington St., Central; Shop G28, G/F, OP Mall, 100 Tai Ho Rd., Tsuen Wan, greenprice.com

Phenix

Created by the folks behind discount fashion concept OnTheList, Phenix is another food-rescue app. This one allows consumers to purchase baskets of food from major F&B retailers - think Pret A Manger, KALE, and Feather & Bone - at compellingly low prices. Simply download the app, browse the various stores on offer, and make your purchase! There’s an element of surprise to each basket, but that’s half the fun. Think of it as

a great way to get out of a food rut and support local business, while reducing your food waste footprint. phenixbyonthelist.com

Eco Community Promotion Association Limited (ECPAL)

We all know composting helps cut down on harmful carbon emissions, but it can be a tall order to find space for a compost bin in space-starved Hong Kong. Here to improve our city’s composting infrastructure is the Eco Community Promotion Association Limited (ECPAL), who operate a network of community composting bins across Hong Kong. How does it work? Fill out a form for your preferred location, pay a nominal monthly subscription fee, and start dropping your saved food scraps into your closest compost. The collected food waste goes to O·PARK1 on Lantau Island, Hong Kong’s first organic resources recovery centre, where anaerobic digestion technology transforms smelly scraps into useful biogas. ecpal.org

CHOMP

ECPALPhenix

LOW-WASTE COCKTAIL MENU RETURNS TO ROSEWOOD

Rosewood Hong Kong is partnering with Singapore-based startup ecoSPIRITS to offer sustainably-made cocktails, mocktails and liqueurs for the second year running. The world’s first closed-loop spirits technology, ecoSPIRITS aims to reduce the carbon impact of the bar industry by up to 80 percent by eliminating single-use glass bottles through the use of reusable tote containers. To keep your next tipple low-waste, you can order off the “ecoCOCKTAILS II” menu at DarkSide, Rosewood’s jazz bar and lounge. From a pina colada with low-waste dark rum and infused with leftover salted lime cordial, to an espresso martini made with recycled coffee grounds and clarified orange stock rescued from leftover oranges, the offerings are tasty, heady, and best of all, won’t add to the landfill.

L2, 18 Salisbury Rd., Tsim Sha Tsui, darkside.hk

TERRACE BY LQV OPENS IN STANLEY

Just in time for the highly anticipated fall weather, outdoor wine bar Terrace by LQV is now open! With an enviable vantage point over Stanley Bay, this al fresco terrace is one of the best in the city. The wine menu has been curated to feature rose, whites and sparkling wines that are easy to drink outdoors with friends. And the food menu showcases lighter French classics that highlight fresh veggies, grilled seafood, and artisanal producers. A delightful spot to kick back and pretend that we’re on the French Riviera for the afternoon. 23 Carmel Rd., Shop 505, Stanley Plaza, Stanley, terracebylqv.com

MA… AND THE SEEDS OF LIFE CELEBRATES SECOND ANNIVERSARY

One of our favourite healthy restaurants in town is about to turn two - it’s time to celebrate! In honour of the occasion, Ma…And The Seeds of Life is launching a new lunch menu, showcasing some of its signature plant-based dishes. From chia-based caviar with cashew sour cream to a fully loaded flax crepe stuffed with tender mushrooms and vegan parmesan, the four-course set (including the restaurant’s iconic cheese board) is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and excellent value for money.

H18 CONET, Shop 11, 1/F, 23 Graham St., Central, marestaurant.com.hk

TEST-DRIVE

cycling studio, and a dedicated space for rehab and recovery. We booked in for one of their strength training sessions, Re/Build, to see how this newest addition stacks up.

the floor in a sweaty, satisfied puddle. Leg day done right!

RE/BUILD AT RE/NATION

The Class: Our trainer, Mason, meets us outside the studio to introduce himself, before taking us in to explain and demo the workout. The group training studio itself isn’t huge, but that’s actually quite nice; our trainer is able to watch and correct the form of everyone in the room. All of the equipment is top of the line, and in no time we’re squatting and lunging against the clock, with Mason giving useful feedback where needed. We

The Verdict: A really solid offering to Hong Kong’s fitness community! We loved how passionate and informed the team was, from the desk staff who offered us free apple juice and protein cookies, to the cleaners who explained the lockers to us and keep everything sparkling. Our trainer was also super friendly and personable, and made the whole workout fun-filled and never a slog. With an in-house smoothie bar and a prime Central location, this is a strong contender for our next favourite gym.

Cost: $350 per class, with discounts

Liv checks out the newest workouts and wellness trends

FITNESS

TEST-DRIVE

The Buzz: Hair extensions are nothing new, but rather than using them to get dramatically long, flowing locks, people are increasingly turning to extensions as a natural volume-booster to restore damaged or thinning hair to its former glory. We tried out Glow Spa’s hair extension service to see if it could benefit our stressed mane.

The Treatment: Glow uses several extension techniques: tapes, clips and keratin bonding. We went for the keratin bonding method, where strands (an industry term to describe a small lock of hair, rather than an individual strand!) of ethically sourced real human hair are applied to your existing hair at the root. You don’t necessarily need to get a whole head of extensions - we had just 25 strands added to the front half of our hair for a subtle boost (for reference, a full head of extensions is around 100 strands). The whole process took around an hour, during which our stylist Chrissy explained the benefits of extensions. Many of Glow’s clients are recovering from illness or suffering from postpartum hair loss, and they find that extensions help boost their confidence. Knowing that we were worried about hair breakage, tugging, and looking unnatural, Chrissy spent time cutting the extensions in half at the root in order to create a smaller, more natural strand. A time-consuming process, but worth it for a more comfortable scalp!

The Results: We are thrilled with our new hair style! We were able to go for a graduated bob, something we’ve never been able to pull off before with our wispy, wavy

and flyaway-prone hair. We also love how that the colour and texture was matched perfectly, and trimmed for a completely natural look. Hair styling has been easier since the appointment as the extensions don’t frizz, meaning our chic bob holds its shape well. We spent a couple of days feeling hyper-aware of the extensions, but eventually they settled and now we barely notice them. The extensions should last from 12 to 16 weeks. They’re brilliantly low maintenance too - just wash and style as you would your own hair.

The Verdict: Want a hack for instantly thicker, fuller hair? We highly recommend giving hair extensions a whirl!

Price: Rates vary hugely, but most clients pay $6,000$7,000. Our extensions were $3,000. A full head of hairaround 100 strands - costs between $12,000 and $15,000, depending on the length and quality selected.

Glow Salon, 8/F, Silver Fortune Plaza, 1 Wellington St., Central, 2525-5198, glowspa.hk

Liv checks out the newest workouts and wellness trends

HAIR EXTENSIONS BY GLOW SPA before

after

More than 80 guests celebrated the Wellness & Lifestyle Awards with a glamorous cocktail reception at Victoria22, Hong Kong's most exciting new event space. Guests enjoyed plant-based healthy canapes supplied by Spicebox Organics, vodka sodas from ONLY drinks and zero-waste canned water from Phenomenal BeWater. After an awards presentation and an evening of networking over bubbles, guests went home with a goodie bag packed with wellness gifts galore.

A huge thank you to our sponsors, who helped to bring the event to life: platinum sponsors METZ Tea and Matilda International Hospital; gold sponsors Cigna, Phenomenal BeWater, Sense of Touch and Limitless; and silver sponsors Heveya and The FLO Wellness Garden.

Congratulations again to all our winners!

SILVER SPONSORS:

CATERING PARTNER: COCKTAIL PARTNER:

ECO/CONSCIOUS SCENTSUAL HEALING

Most of us love a nice subtle spritz of eau de toilette. Check the back label, however, and you’ll find that many commercial perfumes contain alcohol right at the top of their ingredient list. That’s a problem for a few reasons. Alcohol notoriously causes skin irritation, and it’s often the culprit responsible for overly strong, harsh-smelling perfumes. The vapours from alcohol-based perfumes also contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds) which aren’t great for the environment or your health.

The alternative? Oil-based perfumes are crafted using fragrant oils derived from flowers, wood, and plant extracts - think sandalwood, jasmine, rose, lavender, and neroli. They are gentler on the skin, more pleasing to smell, and better for the planet.

If you’re looking to switch to an alcohol-free perfume, these six brands are worth checking out for a cleaner, greener scent.

Aromonix

Angela Kong spent two years training to become a certified aromatherapist, before founding Hong Kong-based natural skincare brand Aromonix. “One of the key advantages of oil-based perfumes is that they are non-drying,” she explains. “Scents tend to ‘stick’ to the skin and linger for up to five hours. They also nourish and replenish moisture, and are gentle enough for all skin types.”

Combining perfumery with plant-based skincare, Aromonix offers customers creams and serums enriched with fragrant essential oils like rose, neroli, French lavender, and sandalwood. For a personalised perfume formulation with your name on it (literally), you can also book a private consultation with Kong. Unit 1101, 11/F, Tower 1,Cheung Sha Wan Plaza, 833 Cheung Sha Wan Rd., Lai Chi Kok, aromonix.com

DK Aromatherapy

Set yourself apart with your very own signature scent at DK Aromatherapy. Available through Klook, you can sign up for one of their DIY personalised fragrance workshops ($380), where you’ll have the opportunity to experiment with over 100 floral tinctures and essential oils for a truly unique toilette. They also sell pre-made 5ml roll-ons blended by DK’s team of expert aromatherapists. Inspired by the five Chinese zodiac elements - fire, earth, wood, water, and metal - these perfumes contain oils known for their energetic balancing properties, such as frankincense, rosemary, tea tree, and ylang ylang.

19 New Market St., Sheung Wan, aroma.com.hk

Eccsentric

Moisturising yet lightweight, jojoba is an OG superfood for the skin. At

Hong Kong scent label Esscentric, jojoba oil is used for the base of every perfume they make, keeping your skin nourished throughout the day.

Founded by aromatherapist and wellness practitioner Jodie Chan, the brand’s formulations feature at least 11 essential oils - and up to 35 - each one multilayered and imbued with meaning. Choose from either their Classics collection or their newest Pilgrimage range, which features more floral blends.

Room 803, Block B, 8/F, Chiap King Industrial Building, 114 King Fuk St., San Po Kong, esscentric.com

Shiu Shing Hong

For a more intrepid adventure, head to Sheung Wan’s Shiu Shing Hong. This no-nonsense shop has been in operation for more than half a century, and its well-stocked shelves carry a dizzying array of raw materials needed to make your own perfume oil. You’ll need a bit of base knowledge in how essential oils and perfumes work before visiting, but the expert staff are on hand to help and provide guidance. For a more elevated experience, Shiu Shing Hong also carries pre-made essential oil

blends used by some of Hong Kong’s top luxury hotels!

130 Jervois St., Sheung Wan, shiu-shing.com.hk

Aarohi Narain is a writer from New Delhi, based in Hong Kong. She most enjoys covering topics in food, arts, travel and identity. Read her work at aarohinarain.com, and email her with your community news at aarohi.narain@gmail.com.

Shiu Shing Hong

Meet Hong Kong’s GEN Z WELLNESS ENTREPRENEURS

The next generation of health and wellness entrepreneurs are already starting to emerge. Carla Thomas speaks to five local prodigies.

Born after 1996, Generation Z is the first demographic cohort to grow up with the internet, social media, and limitless access to information.

Those factors have bred a new generation of young adults who are more progressive, invested in social causes such as climate change, and prioritise their self-care and mental health over personal wealth.

In short, Gen Zers are probably the most wellness-focused generation that has ever lived, and it makes sense to assume it’s only a matter of time before they start leaving their mark on the health and wellness landscape. We spoke to five local entrepreneurs about their companies, what drives them, and what makes Gen Z so unique compares to previous generations.

Tell us about ReBooked!

ReBooked is a social enterprise I founded in 2019 that collects and redistributes preloved children’s books. Since our founding, we have extended the shelf life of over 150,000 books and saved them from going straight to the landfill.

In Hong Kong, ReBooked provides the following services: first, a free, convenient and sustainable way to dispose of unwanted children’s books; second, an online and retail store to access quality and affordable preloved books; and third, a community outreach program to serve underprivileged children through the redistribution of books.

Last year, we also opened a shop in Central to serve as both a drop-off centre for donations, a bookstore, and a venue for literacy sessions and community events. Outside of Hong Kong, we’ve distributed over 5,000 books to low-income families in the Philippines, in collaboration with local NGOs.

You started ReBooked as a high-school student (and still are one!). Did you feel like you had any barriers starting a social enterprise at that age?

As a 14-year-old, I had no idea how to launch a social enterprise. I sought out learning opportunities, from free online courses to webinars to setting up meetings with mentors. Apart from using available resources, a lot of my learning was done through trial and error. Every decision I made, I reflected on its efficiency or success. I’ve learned that the essence of entrepreneurship is utilising the available resources and being open to learning along the way.

Do you think Gen Z’ers are more concerned with environmental issues than older generations? Yes, absolutely! From many discussions I’ve had with other similarly-minded

Bailey Cherry, 17

Founder of ReBooked , Hong Kong’s biggest and only sustainable children’s bookstore

young people, I believe that concern is due to fear. A lot of my peers may have already experienced the negative implications of human activity on the environment, or they expect to in their lifetime. It’s this feeling of dread for the future state of the planet, something that’s been called “ecoanxiety.”

I think my generation also recognises how environmental and social issues are interconnected. Climate change, pollution, and waste disproportionately impact marginalised groups. Young people who are concerned about social issues are often more informed about environmental issues as well. For true sustainability and justice, we cannot simply acknowledge one single issue, but all aspects: environmental, social and economical. How do you balance ReBooked

with all of your other commitments?

I’m so grateful to have a wonderful team of volunteers who believe in our mission and are so dedicated to our goals! I rely on them to run the shop and handle daily operations, especially during the week when I’m at school. Their support allows me to focus on strategy, business development and marketing. Secondly, running a business means being intentional about how I spend my time. For example, when I’m stuck commuting, I take advantage by getting some reading homework done, or creating a social media post!

Thirdly, I’m learning the difficult (but necessary!) life skill of being able to say “No (thank you)”. I’m more discerning about what I commit myself to, and whether it really offers myself or ReBooked any real value.

rebooked-hk.com

Can you explain what Jord is and how it works?

With over 180 brands and 200 physical locations, Jord’s platform is the go-to place for any Hongkonger trying to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Every brand or organisation we recommend has been carefully evaluated by our strict criteria, created by our team and our board of advisors to ensure the credibility of our listings. The platform is also integrated with advanced filtering, location maps, curated lifestyle collections, and even a sustainability simulator to help our users visualise how they can transform their household into one that is more environmentally-friendly!

As a Gen Z, can you share what role climate change has had in your life so far?

I’ve been a nature-lover since I was a young kid, and many trails and beaches in Hong Kong I used to love are now almost unrecognisable thanks to all the rubbish. Last summer, I was scuba diving and saw a field of dead coral skeletons. There was hardly any life in and around them. What was meant to be an experience to appreciate the incredible biodiversity of Hong Kong ended up being a painful reminder of our worsening ecosystem. I know that older generations are equally as worried about climate change as Gen Z is. But it’s also true that it’s their children, who will ultimately face the full force of climate change down the line.

What are some of the sustainability criteria that you use?

Every partner on our platform is making an active effort to reduce their environmental impact, and carry out conscious business practices throughout their operations.

To determine this, we gather key performance indicators from categories such as sourcing, products, operations, and commitments, providing a simple but comprehensive overview of a company’s

James Wang, 16

environmental impact.

We also recognise that no business is “fully sustainable,” since all products require energy and resource inputs. What we can ensure, however, is that every brand listed on our platform has a lower environmental impact relative to its “traditional” counterparts. And of course, we’ve done our due diligence to only guarantee products that are not just sustainable, but high-quality and practical to use.

How can readers support Jord?

We’re a high school start-up, so understandably, we have limited resources. Anyone who is reading this, we sincerely hope will consider looking at our platform and spreading the word to their family and friends. The more we can permeate Hong Kong’s consciousness

and become a part of the community, the more it supports our mission and our team, and the next generation of young people striving to make Hong Kong a greener place to live!

What kind of vision do you and your co-founders have for Jord?

As Asia’s World City, Hong Kong is famous for its glamorous skyscrapers and luxurious shopping culture. However, the devastating truth is that how we’re living here is unsustainable. We create huge amounts of carbon emissions from our purchases, and also generate large amounts of waste across our city. With this in mind, my co-founder Benjamin and I, started Jord with the vision to create a world unified around sustainability, a place to find a community committed to making changes for the better. We hope to raise awareness and give Hongkongers the resources they need to make better, more sustainable choices.

jordhkg.com

Co-founder of Jord , an online centralised directory for sustainable lifestyle choices

What kinds of programmes does Body Banter offer?

Body Banter’s initiatives aim to empower individuals and communities with the confidence and vocabulary to speak up, on their own terms.

Our current initiatives include our Banter-bassador programme: mentors guide youth ambassadors to create their own advocacy project - a resource that raises awareness and stimulates - such as a podcast, video blog, or infographic. We also offer our Lending Language workshop series, working with secondary schools and colleges to help students challenge diet culture and societal beauty standards, and generate ways to advocate for positive change in their communities.

Our website also houses a collection of virtual resources on how to start informed, thoughtful conversations about body image and mental health topics.

Hong Kong isn’t the most forgiving for different types of bodies. Do you think that younger generations are starting to question that beauty standard?

Absolutely, and this is very encouraging to witness. Based on the many conversations I’ve had with young people, I see that while many of them continue to grapple with body image concerns and how to separate themselves from unrealistic beauty standards, they are beginning to question the assumption of how things “should” be. There’s a budding awareness

of other ways in life to achieve a sense of self-acceptance, purpose and fulfilmentand that’s a great start.

Why was it important to you to launch a body positivity movement in Hong Kong?

The simple answer to this: my mess is my message. My “why” for starting Body Banter is knowing that I’m contributing resources and ideas that I wish my younger teen self - who grappled with an eating disorder - could have had access to. My passion for what I do comes from a deeply personal place, and I believe that this is what keeps my fire burning bright.

Finding my voice through my advocacy work has been immensely healing and rewarding, and this is an experience I hope to share with Hong Kong’s youth community. I hope to

empower young people to continuously explore what it means to treat their bodies with kindness, and to promote the same message to others around them.

What are some high points for you over the last six years?

I remember launching Body Banter’s first website back in 2016 as a teenager - I never imagined that we would still be chugging along six years down the road, having evolved into a fully-fledged Section 88 registered charity here in Hong Kong!

It has obviously been wonderful to receive more widespread recognition of our work in recent years, but because Body Banter came from such humble beginnings, I continue to derive the most joy from small yet significant moments. These include receiving inquiries from students hoping to join our ambassador program, or hearing a young person share that a workshop they attended helped shift their mindset in some way.

bodybanter.com

Steph Ng, 25

A PhD student and the founder of Body Banter , a registered charity aimed fostering conversations with youth about body image and mental health

Finding my voice through advocacy work has been immensely healing and rewarding.

Tell us a little bit about Blendit.

Blendit is a healthy food company that strives to serve Hongkongers in a simple and cost-effective way. We operate as a wholesaler, selling our signature bagels and superfood powders to local cafes and restaurants. As a retailer, we have our flagship store in Prince Edward, where we offer over 40 kinds of superfood powders and fresh bagels.

And we have a newly opened F&B outlet in Central, where we serve dine-in and takeaway bagel sandwiches and smoothies. Our product lines include smoothie packs, superfood powder, and authentic New York-style bagels made in our very own factory, which are vegan, low in sugar and salt, and free from oil, food additives and preservatives.

Our motto is “No impulse buying - try before you buy!”. We don’t want anyone to be dissatisfied with our products, so we actually encourage customers to try our products before purchasing.

What was it like launching your own health food business at such a young age?

I started Blendit when I was 21 years old, in my third year of university. It took up so much of my time, and there were so many challenges at the outset that I decided to

drop out of my degree programme. From that point, I’ve devoted every second of my time to starting my business, and growing it from an online shop to a physical storefront. After several successes and failures, I can now say that Blendit has become well-known and a success in its own right.

I’ve never regretted my decision to leave university, but I still have lots of room to improve as an entrepreneur. I just try to keep investing in myself, and treat every experience as a learning opportunity that develops my career path.

What problem in Hong Kong are you trying to address with Blendit?

There aren’t as many healthy dining options in Hong Kong as there are in other world cities. I wanted to provide an easy and economical channel for homemade,

healthy food. For instance, our pre-made superfood smoothies can be thrown into a blender for maximum convenience, and customers can add any additional toppings for a nutritious, time-efficient smoothie bowl. The goal is to raise the public’s awareness of healthy eating habits so that we can develop a strong body and head off preventable diseases.

As a Gen Z, how is your approach to health and nutrition different to past generations?

I think past generations have been more prone to taking various kinds of pills, such as vitamins and supplements. However, these nutrients should ideally be obtained from natural foods. Adopting a diet rich in whole foods, including superfood powders, is a more sustainable way to promote health and prevent problems later in life.

blendit.hk

Ashley Chan Shan Shan, 26

Founder of Blendit , a health food brand specialising in superfood smoothies, handmade bagels and other nutritional products

I’ve never regretted my decision to leave university, but I still have lots of room to improve as an entrepreneur.

Can you explain what Aama Ko Koseli is and what work you do in local communities?

Aama Ko Koseli is an organisation with an intersectional approach to addressing gender issues. We have organised events such as exhibitions to raise awareness of body image issues and highlight the lack of diversity in Hong Kong’s beauty industry. We also raised funds to purchase and donate pads to rural communities in Nepal, as part of a menstrual empowerment campaign.

Can you explain what “period poverty” is, and how it affects certain groups of people in lasting, often detrimental ways?

Period poverty refers to the lack of access to menstrual products, sanitation facilities and adequate menstrual education. Someone’s race, class and gender identity can make it more difficult for them to access period products and menstrual healthcare. We see this manifest in schools that don’t provide free sanitary products

Shrestha Bidhya, 25

for students, insurance that doesn’t cover menstrual healthcare, and even packaging menstrual products as “feminine products,” which alienates transgender menstruators who may have periods but do not identity as women.

Menstruation has historically been a taboo subject. Do you think that’s changing with Asia’s younger generations, and if so, why?

Gradually, we have become more open about the topic of menstruation. Not only have we been able to have more conversations around periods and menstrual experiences, but also discussing and exploring ways to mitigate some of the health and environmental challenges that intersect with menstruation through the use of safe and sustainable reusable period products.

What do you think a lot of people tend to get wrong about menstruation and periods?

A common narrative that I have noticed is the way we often think menstrual inequities only exist in the so-called “third world” countries when it’s prevalent even in affluent places like Hong Kong. According to the Zubin Foundation, 16 percent of girls in Hong Kong have missed school or work because they could not afford sanitary products.

Another aspect that is often overlooked is the way we talk about periods as a feminine issue when it is not only experienced by women. It is important for us to use inclusive language such as “menstruators” rather than assuming it’s a gender-based issue.

Founder of Aamo Ko Koseli , a nonprofit organisation focusing on gender issues in marginalised communities

16 percent of girls in Hong Kong have missed school or work because they could not afford sanitary products.

READY for your CLOSEUP?

Boudoir photography in Hong Kong is becoming increasingly popular. Intimate and sensual, it’s a way for you to capture a moment in time, celebrate yourself, fall back in love with your body, and make some treasured memories to look back on someday. They also make great gifts for partners! Here are a few of our favourite photographers offering boudoir photography in Hong Kong. By Sarah Fung.

Billy Onair

Billy Onair

One of Hong Kong’s prominent photography studios, Billy Onair offers moody, sexy boudoir shoots that celebrate your sensual side. Whether you prefer heels and lingerie, an oversized crisp white shirt or have something else in mind, Billy is happy to accommodate and bring out your best self. billyhung.com

Cammie Warburton

Cammie Warburton is known for her body positive photography, embracing all that’s perfectly imperfect about her subjects. She shoots her subjects nude, or dressed in the clients’ preferred outfits, in settings that are out in nature, in a studio, or in a location of their choosing. Sessions are intimate, empowering and mindful, giving clients time to warm up and embrace their power. Cammie’s clients often come to her following a breakup or major life transition, and she’s honoured to guide them through the portrait journey as an act of self-empowerment. camillawphotography.com

Connie Ching

Bright and playful, portrait photographer Connie Ching’s boudoir photography style is more fashion editorial than moody. If it’s your first time in front of a camera, Connie is an undisputed pro at making all her clients feel empowered and sexy, and making the experience a fun and memorable one. connieching.com

Hilary Chan

Specialising in pre-wedding and boudoir shoots, Hilary’s photos are intimate, light-filled and sensuous. Whether you’re looking for tasteful nudes, edgy lingerie or luscious loungewear, Hilary will ensure that you look your best. She also offers printing and framing services. hilarychanphotography.com

Billy Onair

Cammie Warburton

Cammie Warburton

Dan Cotton Photography

For something a little different, check out Dan Cotton’s portfolio. He loves to play with light, perspective, and movement to create high-fashion, artistic works that are quirky but still sensual. dancottonphotography.com

Verc Photography

Veronica Chan specialises in intimate portrait photography, capturing unposed, intimate moments. If you’re in the market for something romantic and meaningful, or perhaps a more sexier, smouldering feel, Veronica pulls off both expertly. veronicabtriz.com

Maison Kali Photography

Specialising in boudoir photography, Maison Kali’s images are soft, sexy and intimate, with a hint of voyeurism. Capturing both posed shots and candid images, Maison Kali believes that booking a boudoir photography session is an act of self-love, and that everyone can discover their inner goddess. maisonkali.com

Maison Kali Photography

Maison Kali Photography

Dan Cotton Photography

Dan Cotton Photography

HEALTHY RECIPE

Mushroom Walnut Coriander Soup

BY ALINE DAVIES

This comforting mushroom soup is made with crushed walnut pulp and micro coriander, a young, tinier version of coriander with a sweet citrusy aroma and distinctly peppery flavour. (You can swap for regular coriander, if that’s all you have on hand!) Serve this soup topped with a sprinkle of chilli flakes, coriander garnish, a drizzle of olive oil with a side of bread. Follow Aline on Instagram (@sincerelyaline) for more healthy recipes. Serves 4-6.

INGREDIENTS

• 12 shiitake mushrooms, roughly chopped

• 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and roughly chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, peeled then sliced

• 3 large handfuls coriander, roughly chopped, plus extra for garnish (use Common Farms micro coriander, or any coriander on hand)

• 3/4 cup walnut pulp or walnuts

• 3 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for garnish

• 1 vegetable stock cube, stirred into 8 cups boiling water

• Salt to taste

• Chilli flakes to top (optional)

DIFFICULTY

PREP

1. To make pulp, soak walnuts in filtered water overnight. Rinse, then place in a food processor with ½ cup water, blend into a pulp, and strain. If you’d like to skip this step, you can add crushed walnuts directly to the soup but it won’t be as smooth.

DIRECTIONS

1. Pan-fry garlic until softened (be sure not to brown them), around 8-10 minutes.

2. Stir in mushrooms and a pinch of salt and cook for a few minutes until softened.

3. Pour in the stock and bring to a boil. Turn down the heat and leave to simmer for around 15 to 20 minutes.

4. Blitz using a hand blender until smooth, or let cool then transfer to a blender and blend. Stir in coriander and blend again. If you are using crushed walnuts, add them now and blend well. If you’re using walnut pulp, stir it into the mixture without blending.

5. If you find the soup to be too thick, add 1 cup plant-based milk.

6. Reheat the soup on low heat for a few minutes, adding salt to taste. Remove from heat.

7. Serve topped with a drizzle of olive oil, more coriander and a sprinkle of chilli flakes.

LEVEL: Easy TIME 30 minutes

TIP: Serve with crusty sourdough for a warming meal

A Beginner’s Guide to DIVORCE AND CUSTODY

Every relationship has its problems, and while counselling can help many couples get back on track, sometimes separation is the only way forward.

If you find yourself in this difficult situation, it can be reassuring to have a trusted resource to help guide you through the divorce process in Hong Kong. If there are children involved, it’s even more important to come to an amicable separation.

How Do Hong Kong Courts Deal with Divorce?

In Hong Kong there are five grounds for divorce, and you need to select one option when filing your paperwork. They are:

1. Adultery

2. Unreasonable Behaviour

3. One Year Separation with Consent of the Other Party

4. Two Year Separation Without Consent

5. Desertion (for at least a period of one year)

How Do Hong Kong Courts Deal with Custody Issues?

In Hong Kong, children issues are broken down into three areas:

CUSTODY: In Hong Kong, you will either be granted “sole” custody over the children or share “joint” custody with the other parent.

Generally speaking however, whether you receive sole or joint custody, each parent will always have a right to be consulted over major issues with respect to the children such as education, religion and health.

Even if you are granted “sole” custody, the other parent can veto your decision by bringing this to the Family Court.

CARE AND CONTROL: This refers to the parent who will be responsible for the day-to-day decisions related to the children and who the children will be living with on a day-to-day basis.

ACCESS: In cases where one parent has care and control, there will be an order for reasonable access.

Your lawyer will go through each of these issues with you, in order to fully understand the terms you want from the divorce, and ideally work with the other party to come to a mutually agreed-upon resolution.

All About Hong Kong Divorce hongkongdivorce.com is a free educational tool and resource for individuals struggling to navigate divorce in Hong Kong. You can find all the answers you need to assist you in navigating through the complexities of divorce and matrimonial proceedings in Hong Kong.

It aims to set out in simple terms what you can expect to encounter in the run-up to a divorce, and during the long and sometimes complicated process that may follow.

The platform was created by Caroline Y Choi, a matrimonial lawyer at Oldham, Li & Nie. Caroline is an expatriate who has lived in Hong Kong since 2016. She is Of Counsel with the Law Society of Hong Kong and an attorney with the State Bar of California. She specialises in high-asset expatriate divorces and with multi-jurisdictional expertise in Hong Kong and California. As a frequent contributing writer for The Huffington Post on all issues related to family law, Caroline created the website HongKongDivorce.com with the objective of providing the public with easily accessible information related to every aspect of divorce. Its mission is to provide a concise and clear overview of the law, with the objective of providing the public with easily accessible information related to every aspect of divorce and to clarify how the divorce process works. Its mission is to provide a concise and clear overview of the law, answer common queries and provide general support to those in need.

T HE Hydr AfACIAL

Fast, effective and with myriad benefits, the Hydrafacial has steadily been gaining popularity, with more spas than ever before offering the service. We take a closer look at what the treatment involves. By Sarah Fung

If you’re looking for an effective facial treatment that’s fast, effective and pain-free, the Hydrafacial might just check all your boxes. Developed to deep-clean the skin, clear clogged pores, and infuse your face with nourishing serums, this treatment is suited to anyone looking for results, without the redness, discomfort or irritation that comes with peels or painful extractions.

A machine-powered treatment, the Hydrafacial employs a wand-like device to suck up dead skin cells and the contents of blocked pores, using a deeply moisturising serum to keep it moving smoothly across the surface of the skin. It’s essentially a microdermabrasion treatment, using water instead of a crystal- or diamond-tipped wand. There’s also a light chemical peel to help brighten skin and encourage cell turnover. Working with your therapist, you can choose different serums depending on your concerns, from fine lines and wrinkles to pigmentation, dullness and dehydration. The wand simultaneously helps the product penetrate further into the dermis.

At the end of the treatment, the therapist will show you the contents of a reservoir, where you can see the dirt, pollution, products, congestion and dead skin that came off your face. A tad gross, sure - but surprisingly satisfying at the same time? We weren't mad about it!

We loved that there was no uncomfortable poking and prodding to clear blackheads, and no telltale redness after the deep exfoliation. This treatment is gentle and effective, and we love its long-term benefits to our skin health, minus discolouration, thinning or sun-sensitivity.

W HE r E T o GET A Hydr A fACIAL

THE MANDARIN SALON

The Mandarin Oriental offers Hydrafacial for both face and scalp, which helps clear debris and promote healthy hair growth. Facials start at $1,800 for the Signature Hydrafacial, going up to $2,800 for the Platinum. Hair treatments, meanwhile, are $3,800. 5 Connaught Rd., Central, 2825-4800, mandarinoriental.com

SENSE OF TOUCH

This popular day spa offers the Hydrafacial starting from $1,580, or $2,080 including a personalised boosting serum. For a little something extra, splash out on the Platinum Hydrafacial, a 90-minute treatment that includes a lymphatic drainage massage and LED light therapy, for $2,880. Outlets in Central, Repulse Bay and Tseung Kwan O, senseoftouch.com.hk

SKIN RETREAT

Offering results-oriented treatments for face and body, Skin Retreat lists its treatment menu according to your specific skin concerns, from acne to collagen loss and everything in between. It offers Hydrafacial treatments, complete with impressive before and after photos on its website. 19/F, Soundwill Plaza, 38 Russell St., Causeway Bay, 2970-3399, skinretreathk.com

THE CLINIC

This popular medispa offers a whole suite of services, from Botox and Juvederm, to HIFU RF laser treatments and much more. Its Hydrafacial treatments at $2,650, but first-time customers can get a first-time trial for $988. Unit B, 16/F, 8 Russell St., Causeway Bay, theclinic.com.hk

RIGHT AT HOME

GREEN CLEAN:

CLEANING REMEDIES 4 DIY HOME

All-natural cleaning hacks that you can easily whip up yourself, for a more natural, planet-friendly home. By Carla Thomas

Eco-friendly reusable cleaning wipes

Give old, dingy T-shirts or clothes a new lease on life by transforming them into reusable cleaning wipes.

DIRECTIONS:

1. Tear or cut up bygone cotton T-shirts into wide, easy-to-hold strips or segments.

2. Mix ¼ cup of white vinegar and a generous squeeze of dishwashing liquid of your choice in a large reusable container - an old yoghurt container works perfectly.

3. Add rags and mix well.

4. Fill up to the brim with water and let soak overnight.

5. The next day, drain excess water from the container. Label the container “Surface Cleaning Wipes” so everyone in your household knows what they are (don’t mistake them for face wipes!).

6. Throw them in the laundry basket when you’re finished with them. Clean them all with some bleach, and repeat the process from Step 1!

Scented all-purpose cleaner

Blast germs and dirt while giving your kitchen and other surfaces a botanical, all-natural aroma that’s both fresh and non-irritating.

DIRECTIONS:

1. Combine 2 cups white vinegar and 2 cups water into a spray bottle (preferably glass!).

2. Take a lemon and zest the entire skin, so you have a small mound of lemon peel. Add to the bottle.

3. Throw in a few sprigs of rosemary, or several drops of your favourite essential oil.

4. Let it sit and infuse for about a week before using.

Rubbish bin deodorising spray

Got a lingering smell from a stinky bin that’s been left too long? Shake up this cleaning cocktail and stop stench molecules in their tracks.

DIRECTIONS:

1. Mix 2 teaspoons of citric acid with ½ cup of water. Note: citric acid is not the same thing as lemon juice! It’s a concentrated powder made from citrus fruits which can be bought online or in most health food shops.

2. Add 10 drops of tea tree oil and 20 drops of an essential oil of your choice - we recommend eucalyptus, pine, or wild orange oil!

3. Pour into a misting spray bottle and shake well.

4. Spray lightly inside your bin after every time you take out the trash, and before putting a new bag in.

5. Feel free to play around the water and essential oils ratio. If you’d like a stronger smell, add more oil. If you prefer milder, add as much as a cup of water.

Homemade laundry detergent

Not only does making your own laundry detergent save you cash, it also cuts down on irritating soaps and fragrances commonly found in industrially-made brands. Win-win!

DIRECTIONS:

1. Using a box grater, grate a bar of pure castile soap until you’ve got roughly a cup of flakes.

2. Mix 2 cups of borax, 2 cups of washing soda, and 1 cup of soap flakes to a large container with a tight-fitting lid.

3. Stir well with a wooden spoon, adding any essential oils if you’d like a scented detergent.

4. Seal the container and label. Leave a tablespoon either in the container or close by. Add three tablespoons of detergent for every standard load (less if you’re using a high-efficiency washer or a half-load).

*Note: it’s recommended to wear rubber gloves when making this, as large amounts of undiluted washing soda can be irritating to bare skin.

The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Members of the St. James’s Place Partnership in Hong Kong represent St. James’s Place (Hong Kong) Limited, which is an insurance broker company licensed with the Insurance Authority (Licence No. FB1075), a licensed corporation with the Securities and Futures Commission (CE No. AAV439) and registered as an MPF Intermediary (Registration No. IC000852).The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and the value may fall as well as rise. You might get back less than you invested.

Making your money work for you in uncertain times

The world is unpredictable and with market uncertainty around us, it is only natural to be concerned.

Whatever plans you have for your money and no matter what life stage you're at, we can guide you through the different opportunities and challenges that lay ahead. This is where a little expert advice can make all the difference.

Get in touch

We take the time to really know your finances and find ways of making your money work harder for you.

Email kishan.karia@sjpp.asia to arrange a no obligation financial review meeting.

PAWS FOR THOUGHT with Sarah Fung

IT’S PAW-TRAIT TIME

Christmas is around the corner, and what better gift for the animal-lover in your life than a commissioned portrait of your furry companion? These Hong Kong-based artists specialise in bespoke pet portraiture and crafts.

ANDREA BULLEN

A Hong Kong-based art teacher and artist, Andrea Bullen creates soulful and whimsical portraits of dogs, cats and even horses. A digital artist, she manages to capture each pet’s personality, while abstract backgrounds add a dash of creativity and colour.

instagram.com/andreabullen

FOR THE LOVE OF DOG

Commission local artist Philippa Ho to draw a picture of your beloved pooch. An animallover herself, Philippa donates part of her proceeds to local animal shelters. With a fine art degree from Central Saint Martins, she uses digital drawing as her preferred medium. From there, you can order stretch canvases, greeting cards, embroidered T-shirts and totes, all featuring your beloved pet. For every picture commissioned, $100 is donated to Sai Kung Stray Friends. Digital drawings start at $400.

fortheloveofdoghk.com

EVA YOE

A Hong Kong-based artist specialising in animal and wildlife portraits, Eva has donated more than $10,000 to local animal charities through her commissioned works. Her animal portraits are highly detailed and stunningly beautiful, and she sells both original artworks and prints. She’s currently taking commissions.

instagram.com/evayoe_art

ELI PAINTS INKS

Latvian artist Elina specialises in portraits of dogs and other pets. With a degree in fine art and nine years’ experience, she has lived and worked all over the world. Though currently

Eva Yoe

Andrea Bullen

based in Spain, she has many clients from her time living in Hong Kong. Each portrait is done by hand, using high quality inks on cold-pressed thick paper, for a bright and detailed likeness of your furry pal. instagram.com/eli.paints.inks

LITTLE HAPPINESS

This crafting store specialises in custom pet embroidery, as well as personalised mugs, wine glasses and phone cases, all featuring your beloved companion. A hand-painted ceramic mug costs between $380-$500, while bespoke embroidery ranges from $700 to $1,300. pinkoi.com/store/littlehappiness, instagram.com/feelingyip

PICTORESCA DESIGN

Hong Kong-based Czech artist and illustrator Lina Suarez hand-paints likenesses of her clients’ pets onto mugs for a gift that’s both adorable and practical. She uses durable acrylic paints that don’t budge, even after multiple washes. Prices start at $240. She is also an experienced digital artist and works on Procreate - a digital illustration app - for other projects. Check out her Facebook page for examples of her work. facebook.com/pictoresca

OH YOU MADE MY DAY

Elvis Kwok specialises in Chinese brush painting and calligraphy, so if you’re looking for a pet portrait with a classical Chinese bent, he’s your go-to artist. Offering tailormade pet portraits, he also offers regular “draw your own pets” workshops to teach adults and kids the art of Chinese brush painting. Pet paintings help to raise funds for local animal charities. Bespoke Christmas cards also available. instagram.com/ohyoumademyday

Sarah Fung is the publisher of Liv Magazine. A recent pet-owner, she's on a mission to learn all she can about caring for animals in Hong Kong. Email her with your pet news at sarah@liv.media.

Eli Paints Inks

OH YOU MADE MY DAY

For the Love of Dog

For the Love of Dog

Pictoresca Design

US HOW YOU

MONTHLY MANTRA

choose to make peace with what today has come to teach me.

Karega Bailey

CIGNA HEALTH SOLUTIONS TO