Location: River Valley

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

Riverside Point Is Bringing The Joy of Feasting To The Next Level With All Their Amazing Giveaways!

The Singapore River was an important feature of Singapore’s growing port back when we were still in our developing stages.

Fast forward to a few decades later, and the River has now evolved into the urban city’s hotspot.

With thumping music and diners spilling onto the banks of the Singapore River, it’s no surprise Riverside Point has become a mainstay along the Singapore River.

A stone’s throw from Clarke Quay MRT Station, Riverside Point houses popular restaurants that offer breathtaking views of Singapore’s night scene. For those of you who want a meal with a view, here are 5 Riverside Point restaurants that are serving up delicious Christmas eats this festive season!

1. Christmas Special @ JUMBO Seafood

[caption id="attachment_19734" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Cafe Iguana[/caption]

Traditional Christmas dinners have never been your style?

Good news for you, because Café Iguana not only serves up authentic Mexican fare, they also want you to celebrate this festive season by letting loose!

Happy Hour starts at 10pm at Café Iguana with half-off House Margaritas!

Café Iguana wants you to unwind this holiday season with traditionally-flavored Margaritas like strawberry, and exotic flavors like soursop alongside a sizzling platter of Mexican delights, you’re bound to have a Christmas you’ll never forget!

Café Iguana
Harry’s[/caption]

What better way to celebrate this festive season than indulging in the joy of feasting with some friends?

Harry’s at Riverside Point is serving a dine-in buddle for 4 pax. Inclusive of Harry’s Signature Wings, a mouthwatering Triple Sausage Platter and a couple of Cupcake shooters, you’ll be stuffed-full of Christmas cheer at Harry’s!

If you’re stuck on ideas for Christmas presents, Harry’s has also got you covered.

The restaurant has got a couple of voucher packs that would fit any beer aficionado – for example, at $49, the Berry Christmas voucher gets you 6 pints of Harry’s Premium Lager, or a meal to share at any Harry’s outlet!

Harry’s
Brewerkz[/caption]

Brewerkz isn’t your average run-of-the-mill bar – it’s known for its high quality craft beer and a winner of several awards for its signature and seasonal beers. Serving up 13 different brews on tap, it’s no wonder beer aficionados flock to Brewerkz!

Throwing the biggest Christmas party? You’re going to need some drinks to get the party started!

This year, Brewerkz is offering up a Takeaway Special you can’t refuse. With 25% off when you purchase two 6-packs and mini kegs, and 30% if you bring home four, you know you’re pretty much set when it comes to alcohol for your Christmas get-togethers. 

Brewerkz
Spicy House[/caption]

Let’s be honest, we Singaporeans love our spice – just look how people jumped on the bandwagon of downing bowls of Samyang Ramen! The majority of us Singaporeans also live by the mantra “the spicier the better”.

For Spicy House, ‘spice’ takes on a whole new meaning. A Chengdu-style hotpot restaurant that just opened its doors three months ago, the popular Chinese restaurant chain is known for its spicy broth and fresh ingredients.

This holiday season, Spicy House has a late night promotion with 32% off your total bill from 10pm to 3am from Fridays to Sundays! To make things even sweeter, Spicy House will be giving out cash vouchers from 10 to 18 December!

Share the joy of feasting and indulge in the restaurant’s flavourful broth with signature dishes such as the spicy beef balls!

Spicy House
Facebook
#01-07 Riverside Point 30 Merchant Road
Opening Hours: 11am – 2pm; 5pm – 4am
Contact: 6493 7213

Christmas At Riverside Point

This festive season, Riverside Point wants to treat all its Christmas shoppers to some amazing giveaways!

Spend a minimum of $50* and stand a chance to win an iPad Air, Apple Watch, and shopping & dining vouchers worth up to $250,000! Riverside Point will also be giving out exclusive journals when you spend a minimum of $100*!

With these amazing Christmas deals and restaurants serving up some delicious eats this festive season, head on down to Riverside Point for al fresco dining by the river and celebrate this year end the right way!

*Terms and conditions apply. Redemption is at Clarke Quay Central Concierge from now till 25 Dec 2016.

Clarke Quay Central Concierge is located at Level 1 (Blue Zone), 6 Eu Tong Sen Street, Singapore 059817. The Concierge opens from 10am to 10pm daily.

Please visit Gareth Phua)

Also Read: Under $25: 9 Super Local Christmas Gifts That Will Surely Amaze Your Friends!

Zouk Bids Farewell To Its Home On Jiak Kim Street With 4 Of Its Most Iconic Parties

If you turned 18 in the past 25 years chances are you celebrated your 18th birthday with a bang at Zouk. Over the years, Zouk has become THE SPOT for many Singaporean youth to celebrate this momentous right of passage.  There’s a pretty high chance you celebrated a slew of weekends at the popular nightspot throwing parties you’ll never forget (or ever live down)!

We take a look at Zouk’s history and how it’s celebrating its move with a bang!

Zouk @ Jiak Kim St

A year or two after its conception, Zouk saw the start of Balearic club nights. Celebrating house music associated with Ibiza, the party island of the world, Balearic was the first of many successful themed nights. For the pioneering Zouk community, Balearic night will be the throwback party you’ve been wishing for!

Balearic Presents: Aldrin, DJB, Jeremy Boon & Cher Featuring Maniam
18 Nov, Fri
10pm
Admission: Members get in free, Non members $28/$33 (includes 2 drinks)

Thank God It’s Wednesday (TGIW)

The 2000s saw indie and electronic centred music coming onto the scene. Readset Glo, saw live acts and synth heavy bands helming the stage instead of Zouk’s usual DJ-centric programming.

Readyset Glo Presents Hong With Wayne The Insane At Zouk
Nov 25, Fri
Admission: Members get in free, Non members $28/33

Mambo Jambo

7 Romantic Dessert Spots For Couples Who Love To Gaze Into Each Other’s Eyes

There’s nothing like ending a romantic date on a sweet note with some amazing dessert. Cue: warm dark lighting, soothing music, and decadent dessert to share. All while staring into your date’s eyes. Without further ado, we present a list of 7 Romantic Dessert Spots in Singapore!

Because, the only way to her heart is dessert.

1. Privé

What better way to end your date than with a dessert by the river? In the day, Privé Keppel is a relaxed restaurant-bistro and in the evening, a sophisticated and intimate space with picturesque waterfront views.

[caption id="attachment_16452" align="alignnone" width="1500"] Privé Sticky Date Pudding (Image Credit: Nomnom)[/caption]

Privé Keppel
Address: 2 Keppel Bay Vista
Click Privé Asian Civilisations Museum
Address: 1 Empress Place
Click Privé CHIJMES
Address: 30 Victoria Street, #01-33
Click Privé Clarke Quay
Address: 3C River Valley Road #01-09
Click 2. PS Café

PS Café is the perfect place for a romantic date night.

The Ann Siang Hill branch is particularly sleek and posh with its dark, dimly lit interiors and Victorian style décor. The other branches, Dempsey Hill, Palais Renaissance and Paragon, are also romantic dessert spots as well. Take your pick!

Enjoy an intimate ambience while indulging in their drool-worthy desserts like Toffee Date Pudding, Pecan Pie and more!

PS Café Ann Siang Hill
45 Ann Siang Road (ASH), #02-02
Click PS Café Palais Renassance
390 Orchard Road, #02-09A Palais Renaissance
Opening hours:
Mon – Fri: 11:30AM – 11:00PM
Sat, Sun, PH: 9:30AM – 11:00PM

PS Café Dempsey Hill
28B Harding Road, Tanglin Village (Dempsey Road)
ClickPS Café Paragon
290 Orchard Road, #03-41/44 The Paragon
Opening hours:
Daily, 9:30AM – 10:00PM

Indulge in the decadent Edible Garden; a light strawberries and cream cheesecake with a shot of passionfruit and lychee liquer. Or try one of the most Instagram-worthy desserts The Ginger Garden ($12); a young ginger root crumble with ginger flower sherbet, crisp banana fritters and edible flowers!

What better way to end off your date with a slow stroll and star-gazing in the Botanic Gardens?

The Halia at Singapore Botanic Gardens
1 Cluny Road, Ginger Garden
Singapore Botanic Gardens
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri: 12pm – 5pm, 6:30pm – 10pm; Sat, Sun & PH: 8am – 10pm

4. Henri Charpentier

Of course, Henri Charpentier makes the list! There is no doubt that it is one of the best romantic dessert spots in Singapore.

A Japanese French-style patisserie chain known for its signature cakes and pastries, the flambé desserts here are absolutely divine.

With such ambience and decor, you’ll surely gaze into your partner’s eyes for hours.

Impress your date with the stunning Dome ($29), a chocolate-coated sphere of chocolate parfait biscuit set on fire (with liqueur) in front of you. What you will see next is the sphere melting.

Before digging in, strawberry sauce is poured over so you can enjoy a smooth mix of fresh strawberries, melting chocolate and crunchy textures.

Another must-try is Crepe Suzette ($22); two slices of thin crepes that go aflame before your very eyes, when the server pours heated Grand Marnier cognac liqueur into the hot pan.

Delight your sweetheart’s tastebuds with the aromatic blend of buttery silky soft crepes and flaming orange-flavoured liqueur.

Henri Charpentier Dempsey
9A Dempsey Road
Click 5. JAAN

Perched on the 70th floor of Swissotel The Stamford, Jaan is one of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants. It offers a breath-taking view of the Singapore skyline facing the Marina Bay district.

Head here after dinner to enjoy a dessert in the clouds with your sweetheart.

The Choconuts Grand Cru ($28) is a must-try. With a super indulgent combination of peanut butter, chocolate, Tanariva mousse and home-made macadamia nut ice cream, this dessert is a winner.

JAAN Restaurant
2 Stamford Road, 70F Swissotel The Stamford
Opening Hours:
Mon – Sat: 12pm – 2.30pm; 7pm – 10pm

6. Stellar at 1-Altitude

Head up to Singapore’s highest dining venue, Stellar, to enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

Relaxed and unpretentious, indulge in desserts with your loved one at this sky high restaurant.

A snazzy alfresco rooftop bar is available, if that’s what you prefer.

[caption id="attachment_16934" align="alignnone" width="677"] Stellar’s Valrhona Macae Chocolate Ganache (Image Credit: Nylon)[/caption]

Stellar
#62-01, One Raffles Place, 1 Raffles Place
Click 7. 2am: Dessert Bar

Nestled in the bustling Holland Village, s its name suggests, it opens till 2am and has made a name for itself for its beautiful artistic desserts by Celebrity Pastry Chef Janice Wong.

Enjoy the night with your sweetheart while appreciating dessert art and its unique flavours; Earl Grey Bergamot Chocolate Mousse, Fruits of the Forest and Cherry, Vanilla Whisky Ice Cream, Cotton Candy and more all lovingly put together in the Cacao Forest ($24), or the beautiful Kyoto Garden ($24) made of Ginger Flower Ganache, Orange Blossom Ice Cream Rock, Pistachio Sponge and Parfait!

2am: Dessert Bar
21A Lorong Lipur Holland Village
Opening Hours:
6pm – 2am

Whether you need to impress your date or add a little more spice to your relationship, we know these romantic dessert spots are for couples who would like to gaze into each other’s eyes for hours while enjoying dessert!

Also, read Date Ideas: 9 Under-The-Radar Activities That Will Guarantee A Loving Good Time!