Healing Touch Is The Busy Millennial’s Solution To Stubborn Fat And Difficult Skin

We millennials are a busy bunch. Between sitting on our butts all day, balancing school, work, our social lives and the 101 other commitments we keep these days, there are definitely some things that fall by the wayside, including our fitness, skin health, and sometimes, even our general well-being.

Who has the time to hit the gym three times a week or to religiously go through a 5-step skin routine? Well, every now and then, it’s good to stop, take a break, and find a fix for some of the things you’ve been neglecting until now.

If you’re all about quick fixes when it comes to your weight, skin, or if you just want to purge your body of all the tiredness within it, Healing Touch has your back. The beauty chain whose core services include facials, massages and slimming has won awards from CLEO, Women’s Weekly and TripdAdvisor, sealing its status as a peoples’ favourite.

Its staff are friendly and highly experienced, they use quality products and the latest technologies. And the best part? It won’t cost you a bomb!

Last week, I popped by the branch in Orchid Country Club to give its slimming treatment and facials a go and this was what went down.

Slimming Treatment

The slimming treatment I tried was the Slim Lipo-Laser Treatment ($230 excl. GST) and the staff there guaranteed—as they do with all their first time customers—that I would lose 5cm around my waist. A little bit skeptical at first, I went for it and wound up losing a total of 8.5cm within the 60 minute session! I was definitely surprised by the results.

The treatment uses a machine called a ‘Lipo Laser’. During the treatment, after the skin is prepped with a Complex AHA fruit acid, a total of 8 laser light emitting plates are strapped across the tummy region. It sounds scary, but trust me, it isn’t!

The lasers penetrate the skin, targeting fat cells and releasing water and free fatty acid. This effectively causes the fat cells to “shrink”, which is how you lose the inches around your tummy! After this, the slimming therapist conducts a Manual Lymph Drainage massage to flush out all that water and nasty toxins that was released earlier.

The heat from the metal plates can be a little painful, especially if you’re on or near the beginning/end of your period (like I was), because the skin tends to be more sensitive during this time. Don’t try to bear with it like I did! Feel free to let the attentive staff know if it’s too hot, and she will make adjustments accordingly.

As the lasers were working away at “melting” my fats, the therapist went through a questionnaire to find out more about my lifestyle habits—how much water I drink, how often I exercise, etc.—as well as my weight loss goals—what my goal weight is, when was the last time I was at my goal weight, etc.

When the session was over, we had a short consultation where she advised me on how to lead a healthier lifestyle, and made sure I had realistic expectations when it came to achieving and maintaining my goal body, i.e. it takes a total lifestyle change. Slimming treatments without any accompanying changes to your nutritional habits or exercise frequency won’t do the trick, especially not in the long run.

While the Lipo-Laser Treatment is definitely a quick fix when you need it, I think it’s great that Healing Touch employs a holistic approach toward weight loss, providing nutritional coaching and motivating customers to live healthier beyond just administering the treatment, so they can better achieve their goal physiques.

Facial

For the facial, I tried the NEO Energy Advanced Facials ($226 excl. GST), a 90 minute bespoke facial where you get to use 2 of 5 cutting edge technologies, depending on your skin issues.

The 5 are Meso Infusion, which facilitates the penetration of serum for more hydrated, firmer skin; D-Sonic Deep Cleansing for a deep clean of the skin; Sonic Muscle Toning for firming and lifting; LED Multi-Purpose, to promote the production of collagen; as well as Bio-Mask Refining, to minimize pores as well as to brighten.

Because the beautician identified uneven skin tone, blackheads and enlarged pores as my key skin issues, she recommended Meso Infusion and Bio-Mask Refining. The treatment was so relaxing I actually fell asleep!

After giving my face a thorough double cleanse, as well as a routine extraction, the beautician applied a customized serum to my face and gently massaged it in using the Neo Energy Mesotherapy probe which was tuned to the optimal frequency for penetration (Meso Infusion).

Next, she applied 6 pairs of electrodes to the face through a face mask. While the positive ion plates helped with detoxification and removal of dirt and oil, the negative ion plates helped with the delivery of the active ingredients of the serum used, as well as with brightening the face and the minimizing of pores (Bio-Mask Refining).

What struck me as quite unique about the facials here was that they pluck your eyebrows as part of the treatment. I was so surprised I actually asked “Is this part of the facial?” when the beautician offered to pluck them! Aside from that, the facial included a face and shoulder massage—again, an unexpected touch, but definitely a plus by me.

All the products used were lightly and beautifully scented and felt super luxurious, and as promised, at the end of the treatment, my pores were noticeably smaller and my skin felt soft and youthful again!

From my experience, it’s clear to see that the staff at Healing Touch are truly dedicated to serving its customers. With a strong no hard-selling policy, you don’t have to worry about having to commit to anything you’re not comfortable with. Whether it’s slimming, a facial, or a relaxing massage you’re in for, you’ll sure to leave feeling very, very satisfied.

Healing Touch
Outlets: Healing Touch has seven branches islandwide. Click Healing Touch 
Instagram: @healingtouchspasg

5 Things You Didn’t Know About Full-Time Mum And Entrepreneur Jaime Teo

Jaime Teo. Most Singaporeans only know her as a Miss Singapore Universe winner and as Daniel Ong’s better half. But really, the 38 year old mumtrepreneur (a mummy entrepreneur) is more than just a pretty face! She may not be on our television screens as much but she’s been really busy. Her newest venture? Partnering up with popular sportswear label Under Armour! Here are 5 facts about Jaime Teo that might just surprise you!

1. She Was Part Of A Singapore-Taiwan Girl Group

2. She Loves To Bake

Any mum out there can attest that raising kids is no walk in the park. For mumtrepreneur /FLY artist/wife Jaime Teo, she says all her roles are easy to fulfil with supportive husband, Daniel Ong by her side. Being a mummy, is a 24 hour ‘cannot quit’ job and while it can be a full load with so many things on her plate, Jaime still manages to spend time with daughter, Renee Ong!

Check out Jaime Teo’s Instragram, she’s always uploading videos of daughter, Renee!

4. She’s Fitter Than You

While balancing her very busy schedule, Jaime still manages to keep fit, by running, rock climbing and even working out at home. Which goes to show all you really need for a workout is an exercise mat and some really good workout music!

Mumtrepreneur , Jaime Teo’s latest venture is partnering up with Under Armour, the popular sportswear label, to help other ladies adopt a fit and healthy lifestyle like she has!

Hard to believe that Jaime used to battle weight and body issues since a young age, but this former Miss Singapore Universe has certainly come a long way!


UA Women: Empowering One Another

Want to get some tips on getting a workout in despite a busy work schedule? You’re in luck! Jaime Teo will be speaking at the UA Women: Empowering One Another event, where she’ll be giving the crowd tips of crafting a healthy lifestyle and the different types of exercises to give you that extra boost of energy!

And she’s not alone, Sarah Pang, Singapore’s National Tennis Player will also be holding a tennis clinic for Tennis novice and experts alike!

Empower Yourself: How to Manage Your Energy
Sarah Pang, Jaime Teo, and Marie Choo
Sat, 22 October 2016
9.30am – 10.30am
Hometeam NS Balestier (Cookyn Inc)

Tennis Clinic with Sarah Pang
Sat, 22 October 2016
8am – 9.30am
Hometeam NS Balestier (Tennis Courts)
Equipment: Workout attire and tennis racquet

Want to find out more about UA Women: Empowering One Another? Check out their event page HERE

Find out more information about Under Armour at their 5. She’s A Risk Taker  [caption id="attachment_16374" align="alignnone" width="1011"] Jaime Teo’s Instagram[/caption]

With numerous acting gigs under her belt, winning Miss Singapore Universe, a successful cupcake company, a happy family life and now a fitness junkie, Jaime Teo seems to have it all.

But getting there hasn’t been a walk in the park, Jaime above all things is a risk taker. And if we can learn something from this mumtrepreneur , its taking risks is better than regretting never risking anything.

(feature image: Jaime Teo Instagram)

Also Read: How Does Floating Freely Feel? We Tried It Out At Palm Ave Float Club!

Study Spots In Town That Will Make Every Mugging Session A Conducive One!

Going to be around the central region and need study spots?

The central region is where life in Singapore intersects the most frequently. With blistering paces and overwhelming noises, it may seem impossible to settle down on a spot to study or work.

Here, we uncover study spots in the central region that are perfect for students who need to focus on their work at hand.

#1. Starbucks

Here’s everyone’s default and favourite study spot – Starbucks! The quintessential coffee house that serves delicious coffee, offers new and exciting seasonal drinks and is conveniently located all around the country.

Starbucks – Plaza Singapura

This is one of the most convenient Starbucks outlets in Singapore, located near Dhoby Ghaut MRT station.

The cafe serves all day breakfast along with mains which will fuel your studying marathon all through the day.

Pacamara
Address: 185 Upper Thomson Road, Singapore 574333
Opening Hours: 9:00AM to 11:00PM

#4. Drury Lane

It’s hard to miss the bright red doors of Drury Lane Cafe at Tanjong Pagar road.

With seats on ground and upper levels, this hip cafe is extremely apt for those in the neighbourhood looking for a good spot to finish up on some readings.

Drury Lane Cafe
Address: 94 Tanjong Pagar Road, Singapore 088515
Opening Hours: 8:00AM to 06:00PM (Mon-Tues), 8:00AM to 09:00PM (Wed-Fri), 9:00AM to 06:00PM (Sat-Sun)

#5. The Daily Press

The Daily Press is an unpretentious cafe located within the mature estate of Toa Payoh that serves a variety of sandwiches and good coffee.

[caption id="attachment_15167" align="alignnone" width="839"] credit: draken4130 on Flickr[/caption]

Just be sure not to occupy the tables reserved for those referencing the library’s materials.

National Library
Address: 100 Victoria St, Singapore 188064
Opening Hours: 10:00AM to 9:00PM

Library @ Esplanade

This one comes as a surprise to many. Yes, there is a library inside the Esplanade. Yes, it is super quiet and conducive.

[caption id="attachment_15168" align="alignnone" width="960"] credit: credit: Attention Coffee Lovers: Here’s Your Chance To Savour 30 Cups Of Coffee At Only $30!

6 Eats Around Singapore That Are Bound To Bring Your Tastebuds To Life!

Everyone knows that Singapore is a food paradise, it can get pretty difficult to choose when Singapore has such an extensive array of delicacies. We’re always sourcing for new places to get our food on so we asked some of our favourite brand ambassadors where were their favourite underrated places to eat, and they did not disappoint!

Here are a list of the most underrated places to get some food here in Singapore recommended by Discover SG’s brand ambassadors :

Novita Lam

Boon Tong Kee

(Image credit: Novita is that she really wants to see polar bears in their natural habitat. This talented 22 year old NUS Business student designs on the side and she can speak 6 languages!

Novita loves .

(Image credit: as her favourite underrated place to fill her tummy! Noreen tells us that the rice bowls are really healthy yet still satisfy her hunger, her favourites? The ‘Yasai’ and ‘Noka’ rice bowls.

(Image credit: 6222 8055
Contact: Mon – Fri: 9.30am – 9pm; Sat – Sun: 9am – 6pm

Kimberley Yong

Last week we did a feature on Kimberley, talking about her life, fashion and her love for Starbucks. The 20 year old blogger and model loves capturing memories through the medium of photographs and blog entries. Her love for eyeliner (“it makes me feel sexy”) and her wish to one day visit Cambodia (“I really want to visit the country I was born in”) is just the tip of the iceberg!

Brownice Ice Cream

(Image credit: Brownice Ice Cream)

(Image credit: Brownice Ice Cream)

It can be difficult to find eateries in Singapore which targets vegans, but Kimberley has got you covered! One of her favourite places to grab a slice is Brownice. Vegan friendly and delicious, Kimberley loves indulging in food especially when she doesn’t feel guilty after (“After all it’s vegan!”).  Brownice is primarily an ice cream place that serves up some milk-free ice cream, which is great news for our vegan and lactose intolerant friends!

Brownice Ice Cream
8 Sin Ming Road, #01-03 Sin Ming Centre, S575628
Opening Hours: 12pm – 10pm
Contact: 6456 6431

Flavour Flings

(Image credit: (Image credit: Flavour Flings her top pick for something salty and filling! She tells us that Flavour Flings is her favourite place to grab a quick bite. On why she keeps coming back to this quiet eatery? “I tired my very first salted egg fried there and it tasted so good.” At Flavour Flings you can find some unique dishes that are served up doused in salted egg!

Flavour Flings
Blk 121 Hougang Avenue 1, #01-1348, S530121
Opening Hours: Mon: 11am – 4pm, 5.30pm – 9pm; Tues – Weds: Closed; Thu – Fri; 11am – 4pm, 5.30pm -9pm; Sat-Sun: 9am – 4pm, 5.30pm – 9pm
Contact: 6286 005

Here in Singapore we’re lucky to never run out of food options, we pretty much have it all. But it can be pretty difficult to choose a place to eat when we’re surround by so many makan places! Head on over to any of these places if you’re looking for something unique, underrated and delicious!

This article is part of our ongoing Brand Ambassador Series!

Also Read: Ambassador Highlights #1: Food Tastings, Secret Life of Pets Preview & Beers!

F45 Training In Singapore: The Most Intense 45 Minutes Of My Life

Somewhere between HIIT and Crossfit lies F45, a 45-minute-long functional training programme that has recently hit our shores early this year. The F45 fitness franchise was first developed in Australia, and has since taken the rest of the world by storm with its fast-paced full-body workout.

F45 – 45-minute-long functional training programme

If you ask me, I’d describe it as HIIT with a little more equipment than you bargained for – expect to get up close at personal with TRX straps, free weights, bosu balls, kettlebells, spin bikes, pull-up bars, rowing machines, prowlers, sledge hammers and sandbags. You could also say that it’s a less intimidating version of Crossfit. The focal point is not to attain a personal record in an overhead squat but to complete as many reps as possible in each station.

Themed exercises

Each day is dedicated to a different workout so if you’re a regular, you can be sure that you’ll be working a different muscle every day of the week. The workouts are themed and playfully named – Brooklyn (MMA- and boxing-based), Romans (resistance-based), Quarterbacks (agility- and pylometrics-based). Saturday’s Hollywood class ends off the week with a bang; combining resistance and cardio exercises across a whopping 27-stations in a mere 45-minutes.

Workouts

These themed exercises are different each week, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised as soon as you step foot into class. At each station, each set of workout ranges from 35- to 55-seconds, with a 10- to 20-seconds rest between sets or stations.

The timings and workout videos will be flashed on a screen at the front of the room for instructional purposes. The trainer, Cat, walks around the room to correct our forms while spurring us on.

My experience

My first class was Quarterbacks. There were three pods and three stations in each pod – that’s nine different stations altogether. Sounds like a manageable handful? Think again. Each station within each pod has to be completed twice (35-seconds workout, 10-seconds rest), and once all nine stations have been completed as a team, we had to repeat everything for one last round.

The workouts for that day included chest press, pull ups, push ups, weighed lunges, kettlebell lifts and prowler pushes – just to name a few.

I started to grow pale as soon as I hit my second round. I felt like I was on the verge of throwing up my non-existent breakfast (maybe I should have had a bite before leaving the house). But I soldiered on. I tried to shift my focus to the specially curated, upbeat F45 playlist in an attempt to drown out the agony I was in.

Before I knew it, the 45mins was over. Even though I found myself hobbling up the stairs as soon as my muscle soreness kicked in, it was totally worth it because I knew that I had emerged stronger.

F45 trainings have proven to be a test of endurance, cardio capacity and strength all at once, so expect to feel aches in parts of your body that you’ve never known could ache. If you’re up for the challenge, F45 offers a two-week trial for you to have a taste of painful pleasure before you commit yourself to become a regular.

Tips!

Tip #1: To avoid disappointment, make a booking online or on the F45 app prior to coming to class. Classes can get pretty full – even the 6.15am ones!

Tip#2: Hop over to Do.Main Bakery (266 Tanjong Katong Road) after class for kickass pastries. It’s only a stone’s throw away!

F45 Training

This article is brought to you by Discover SG x Collette Miles

Also, read 5 Friendly Boutique Gyms To Kickstart Your Keep Fit & Exercise Resolution!

Verdict Is Out! Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore For Best Food Under $45

Where to get the best Curry Laksa? Which hawker stall has the best Hainanese Chicken Rice? Don’t know where to bring your tourist friends for the best Chai Tow Kway?

Worry no more because some of Singapore’s best eateries have been awarded a”Bib Gourmand” (high-quality menu at reasonable prices) by the very first edition of the Singapore Michelin Guide! So who made the cut? Here are the 34 hawker stalls, restaurants and food establishment that made the list.

What is Bib Gourmand?

“Not quite a star, but most definitely not a consolation prize, the Bib Gourmand…is a just-as-esteemed rating that recognises friendly establishments that serve good food at moderate prices. ” In Singapore – the meal must be under SGD$45 to qualify.

Michelin Bib Gourmand Singapore – Hawker Stalls

Without further ado, here’s the full list!

1. Claypot Laksa – Alexandra Village Food Centre

(Image credit: Image source: Credit: Image source: Image source: Image source: kate2.0[/caption]

23. New Ubin Seafood – Sin Ming Road

24. Peony Jade at Keppel Club (Cantonese) – Bukit Chermin Rd

25. Shish Mahal (Indian) – Albert Street

26. Song Fa Bak Kut Teh – New Bridge Rd

27. 328 Katong Laksa – East Coast Road

28. True Blue Cuisine (Peranakan) – Armenien Street

(image credit: Image source: Image source: Bismillah Biryani[/caption]

33. JB Ah Meng Kitchen (Cantonese) – Geylang Road

34. Sin Huat Eating House (crab rice noodle) – Geylang Road

[caption id="attachment_11210" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Credit:

Header image source: Clearing All Your Doubts – How Exactly Does The Michelin Guide Work?

7 Local Desserts So Good, They’ll Remind You Of Your Childhood Sweetheart

Topped with tropical fruits and a side of condensed milk for a Snapchat worthy sweet treat, Bingsus are the go-to dessert on a hot summer’s day. Not forgetting a warm and freshly baked Belgian waffle, topped with a scoop of creamy gelato and almond sprinkles. Mmm.

Local Dessert – Comfort Food That Never Disappoints

But when it comes to hitting that sweet spot for dessert, nothing does it better than local dessert. Affordable, nostalgic and ultimately delicious, local dessert is not only part and parcel of our culture, but also a quick and delicious way to seek respite from the blistering heat. Be it a cooling snack, a mid-day treat or a post-meal dessert, here’s a list of where you can go to get your local dessert fix!

1. Mei Hong Yuen Dessert

Image credit: www.burpple.com/@sharonista

A name familiar to most, this local dessert chain serves traditional hot and cold dessert. It is one of the “Singapore Chinatown Heritage Brands”. These brands are the ones that have been operating in Chinatown for at least 30 years. Through the years, Having eaten at this dessert stall for years, we heavily recommend the Almond with Egg White, Red Bean Lotus, and Chee Cheong Fun. They have also recently opened more stalls, so you don’t have to travel to Chinatown just to savour one of the best local dessert stalls.

Outlets:
Chinatown: No. 63 – 67 Temple Street, #B2-32 Chinatown Point
Orchard: #B4-34, ION
Novena: #02-03 Velocity@Novena Square
Clementi: #03-02 321 Clementi Ave 3
Opening Hours:
Click 2. Ah Chew Desserts