Imagine your mind as a cluttered desk with various projects, notes, and documents piled high. Much like searching for information amid the chaos, dealing with stress or persistent thoughts can be equally challenging. To regain clarity and tranquility, consider giving your mind a quick reboot. This practice can help declutter your thoughts, leaving you with a more organized mental space.
Here are some effective techniques to become a person of peace:
CHANGE YOUR SCHEDULE
Attempting to outrun or outperform anxiety and depression is a losing battle. Being overwhelmed and overcommitted is a surefire way to disrupt your peace of mind. Take a close look at your schedule and identify tasks you can eliminate. It’s essential to slow down, set boundaries around your commitments, and create time for relaxation.
TRY JOURNALING
Journaling is a powerful tool to unearth the thoughts and emotions swirling within you. Instead of allowing chaotic ideas to dominate your mind, put them on paper. Grab a blank sheet and allow your thoughts to flow freely. There’s no need to edit or censor yourself; the goal is to connect with your inner self.
RECONNECT WITH NATURE
Engaging in light physical activity outdoors can significantly boost your mood. If exercise isn’t your preference, spending time in your favorite natural setting can alleviate stress. Singapore offers numerous trails and park connectors, providing ample opportunities to reconnect with nature.
Image Credits: unsplash.com,
NURTURE YOUR CREATIVITY
Creativity serves as an exceptional outlet for finding stress relief and inner peace. Brené Brown’s insight, “Unused creativity is not benign… It metastasizes into resentment, grief, heartbreak,” resonates deeply. Rekindle your neglected creative pursuits, whether it’s playing a musical instrument, launching a business, gardening, or cooking. Immersing yourself in a captivating novel also offers a welcome break from constant problem-solving.
LEARN FROM THE PAST
Our past experiences serve as amazing teachers. No matter how hard you try, you cannot bring the past back; it is behind you, and there is nothing you can do to change it. Whenever negative thoughts about the past arise, remember how far you have come and look into the future with a positive perspective. You are not the same person you used to be.
SHARE GRATITUDE WITH OTHERS
Research has shown that expressing gratitude can strengthen relationships. So, the next time your significant someone, friend, or family member does something you appreciate, make sure to let them know how much you value their actions. Having good relationships helps alleviate worries and provides a strong support system.
VOLUNTEER TO THE ANIMAL SHELTER
Research highlights the stress-reducing benefits of spending time with pets, as they can lower blood pressure and provide comfort. If you have a pet, take advantage of quality time by walking your dog or engaging in playful interactions with your cat. If you don’t have a pet, consider volunteering at local animal shelters like Hope Dog Rescue or Love the Voiceless, or offer to walk your neighbor’s dog.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
By incorporating these practices into your life, you can pave the way for a more peaceful and organized state of mind. Just as you declutter your physical environment for better efficiency, tending to your mental space through these strategies can lead to enhanced clarity and a greater sense of tranquility.
NewJeans x LINE FRIENDS pop-up store has officially opened its doors in Singapore and being the humble K-pop fan that I am, I had to drop by.
It’s at Orchard Central anyway.
In all honestly, I was expecting to just walk in and have a look around but it was much more crowded than I expected it to be.
I’m going to spill the beans and explain my camera roll, plus show you the prices so you can compare them with the Kpopmerch Official Store on Shopee.
Give me your attention as I reveal everything I’ve seen and experienced.
Scan a QR code to join the queue
So I reached there slightly past noon and a staff was holding a QR code that you have to scan to join the queue.
I was told that it would take about 15 minutes and was urged to come back later.
But this was what I was greeted with after entering my particulars:
The queue situation looks okay though, so I thought I would head elsewhere to run my errands first before coming back to join the queue since it would probably take me more than 15 minutes.
But just as I was on my way to pick up some stuff, I received a message asking me to proceed back to the holding area:
It was only about 10 minutes since I joined the virtual queue so I was secretly happy that it didn’t take too long. Well, at least for now.
I went back to the holding area, right opposite Equate Coffee, showed the staff my message notification, and joined the queue.
12.25 pm.
The long wait starts from now
Silly me as I wasn’t expecting to wait that long.
But minutes passed, the line moved little by little… But it still wasn’t my turn.
I was almost close to leaving because I was starving.
12.45 pm.
Oh yeah, I was nearing the end of the queue and was given a little “Q ticket” by the staff:
“Finally…” I thought.
But nope.
The holding area was just the first batch.
Oh my, oh my God.
Here’s the second “holding area”:
But at least there are seats so you can rest a little while waiting.
1.14 pm.
Finally, it was time to enter.
I returned the “Q ticket” to the store staff at the entrance and received a little freebie in return:
Store experience and prices
Okay, so here’s the real deal.
When you enter, here’s what the store looks like:
To your left, there will be BT21, LINE FRIENDS, and TRUZ.
But everyone was crowding around the right side of the pop-up store, which is where you will find all your NewJeans display and merch.
This is right near the entrance:
And then there’s more when you walk in:
Last look at the display before we move on to the prices:
Here are some of the photos I took and I’ve listed the product names together with the in-store prices so you can compare them to the Kpopmerch Official Store on Shopee and decide if you want to get them offline or online, yeah.
There’s also a phone zone right in front of the check-out counter so you can snap your pics and videos before paying for your merchandise.
FYI, their carrier bags are not free so you might want to bring your recycling bags if you don’t want to pay extra on top of your already pricey goods.
The carrier bags are priced at $0.40, $0.60, and $1 according to sizes anyway.
All payments are to be done via cash or nets only and items sold are not exchangeable nor refundable.
Here’s more to note:
Should you buy online or offline?
If you’re as impatient as I am, I would suggest that you get your NewJeans merch online.
The above image shows you the two holding areas I had to go through, which took me about an hour all in all.
I’m not the sort that likes waiting so I think shopping online would make things a lot easier (and cheaper for selected goods).
However, I do have to highlight to you that some merchandise is already sold out online so it’s your chance to get them offline if they still have it when you visit.
Also, there are a handful of items that I can’t seem to find in the Kpopmerch Official Store on Shopee (those that I didn’t input any links to), so it’s a good opportunity for you to get them in-store.
Anyhow, I’m writing this on the launch day of the pop-up store, which is on a Friday. I cannot imagine what the queue situation is going to be like during the weekend.
I would highly recommend that you visit on a weekday if you have the freedom to do so.
The event will last till 23 November but the merch won’t wait so you should visit early before the items get sold out.
Imagine the sheer delight that washed over our office when we welcomed the arrival of our brand new De’Longhi Coffee Machine. It felt as if it could magically brew joy with every cup. We were a bunch of coffee enthusiasts, and the yearning for top-notch breakfast and artisanal coffee was about to be fulfilled by Singapore’s finest cafes.
From specialty brews and hearty breakfasts to delightful brunch spots tucked away in the city, we present to you a list of Singapore’s most beloved cafes, each brimming with its unique charm and flavors.
MR. HOLMES BAKEHOUSE
As we stepped into Mr. Holmes Bakehouse, it was like stepping into a sweet dream. Have you ever tasted a cruffin, a mouthwatering blend of croissant and muffin? If not, this is the place to try one. These delightful pastries are sugar-dusted and cream-filled to perfection, coming in flavors like lemon meringue and pistachio. And if you’re craving something savory, they’ve introduced new treats like the Tomato & Pesto Melt ($13++) and the Short Rib ($20++) sandwich.
Image Credits: facebook.com/mrholmesbakehousesg
Location: Multiple locations, including Pacific Plaza and MYP Centre
DOUGH
Dough, a Korean-style bakery-cafe nestled in CHJIMES, was a revelation brought to life by the talented creators behind Glyph Supply Co and Runes, two other beloved local cafes. Whether you come here to work, unwind, or brunch with friends, you’ll find an ambiance that suits your mood.
Every item on the menu, from bread and pastries to pastas, is crafted fresh in-house. One standout is the Adzuki Mochi Danish ($5.50++), a delightful blend of textures. Another must-try is their Pistachio Raspberry ($6.50++) croissant cube, filled with luscious pistachio cream.
Location: 30 Victoria St, #01-30, Singapore 187996
FIFTYFIVE COFFEE BAR
Nestled on Neil Road, FiftyFive Coffee Bar is far from ordinary. The space exudes a calming zen vibe, anchored by a sensory garden installation that transports you to a forest retreat. With its stylish 40-seat layout, it offers an array of specialty coffee and tea drinks ($5.50++). Plus, you can savor freshly baked goods and light bites.
Their menu includes quirky blends like the highly acclaimed manuka miso honey latte ($7.50++), a refreshing dirty spiced lemonade ($7.50++), and the whimsical strawberry pipagao latte ($7.50++), which playfully incorporates nostalgic Chinese herbal cough syrup. For those feeling fancy, there’s filter coffee featuring a rotating single-origin selection.
Location: 55A Neil Rd, Singapore 088892
PS.CAFE PALAIS RENAISSANCE
PS.Cafe is synonymous with excellence. You can always count on impeccable food, chic aesthetics, and a fabulous dining experience. If you’re seeking sophistication, the Palais Renaissance outlet is perfect for brunch, boasting iconic high ceilings, classic decor, an outdoor dining area, and ample natural light for those Instagram-worthy shots.
And the food? It’s a feast for the senses, featuring pasta dishes, sandwiches, truffle fries, and decadent chocolate cakes. Gather your brunch companions and indulge in a memorable meal.
If you find yourself in the City Hall area searching for a cafe, The Glasshouse is a beloved choice. Located in CHJIMES, this cafe lives up to its name with its floor-to-ceiling windows and lush plant decor, evoking the ambiance of a botanical greenhouse. It’s the ideal spot for catching up with friends over coffee or grabbing a quick caffeine fix. The coffee here is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, crafted from beans sourced from the homegrown roastery, Apartment Coffee.
Location: 30 Victoria St, #01-03 CHIJMES, Singapore 187996
WILD HONEY
A local gem, Wild Honey is a go-to spot for comforting brunch cuisine. Step inside to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, where you’ll be surrounded by Instagram-worthy interiors and delectable dishes. Signature favorites include Corsican, a classic omelet folded with goat and feta cheese, and Delancey, featuring sliced beef pastrami with poached eggs. Sweet tooths will adore treats like apple crumble, Basque cheesecake, and artisanal ice cream. And don’t forget to explore their selection of coffees and teas. If you’re in the mood for a drink, stop by during happy hour from Sundays through Thursdays.
Image Credits: facebook.com/wildhoneysg
Location: Multiple locations, including Mandarin Gallery and Scotts Square
SIMPLE CAFE
Simple Cafe may appear unassuming at first glance, marked only by a plain sign and a chalkboard by the wall. But once you step inside, you’ll be transported to Taiwan, with its humble furniture and a Mandopop playlist setting the mood.
Swing by for their all-day Simple Breakfast ($17++), featuring toast, eggs, sausages, and a side salad. You can also enjoy sweet and savory bagels, all priced under $10.
I underwent a 2-hour session after Topp Care Hair Solutions invited me to try out their customised hair treatment back then. But life got in the way, I was frequently overseas, and just couldn’t find the time to travel down for regular treatment sessions.
And I guess that’s why my scalp has been suffering for the past few months. With hair that turns oily just after a few hours out of the shower, I knew it was about time I did something about it. That’s why when Topp Care contacted me again to check in on my current scalp condition, I jumped on the opportunity with a huge “yes please”!
Curious to see my scalp condition, I headed down for my second session.
It’s good to be back in a familiar place.
If you don’t already know, Topp Care is located in Eastpoint Mall on the 3rd floor and just a 5-minute walk from Simei MRT Station. A very convenient location and easy to get to.
So here I am! I was greeted by the Customer Service Officer at the front desk and ushered into the consultation room after he confirmed my appointment time slot.
While waiting for my hair & scalp specialist, I was asked to fill in my particulars and a short self-assessment of my hair condition. Nothing too difficult here since I’ve done it before on my first visit.
And yes, before I get into the nitty-gritty details of how my second session went, allow me to give you a quick introduction to Topp Care.
About Topp Care Hair Solutions
Topp Care is a certified member of the British Herbal Medicine Association and the US Trichology Institute. They can assist with age-related greying, hair-thinning issues, uncontrolled sebum build-up, and more because they provide hair solutions for people of all ages.
Only quality plant-derived western botanicals and hair-friendly herbs are used to promote hair growth and enhance scalp health, and they are all administered by US Trichology Institute Certified Specialists in addition to well-trained and experienced therapists.
The hair & scalp specialist who attended to me was none other than Helen, the same specialist that I was assigned to on my first session.
Since it was my second session, we skipped the formalities and went straight into the scan. This scanning machine may be small but it sure is mighty—being able to zoom in up to 200x to spot all your scalp issues.
And lo and behold, here’s what it has found:
The reddish spots on my first scan done 6 months ago were still visible and the excessive sebum build-up on my scalp, as usual, was clogging up my hair follicles.
I wasn’t expecting my scalp condition to improve since I had made no extraordinary effort to deal with my hair issues, except for my daily hair wash and scalp tonic application routine. But I was in for a shock when Helen told me that I’d gotten some dandruff this time around.
Oh my, oh my. This is what months of neglect have gotten me into.
Having seen tremendous improvement from my previous session, I quickly asked Helen what she had in store for me this time since the last session I was treated to a Dead Sea Masque hair treatment.
Helen suggested that I take up the Detoxdren Treatment for this session since it’s the solution to scalps filled with oil and dandruff. Yeast is used in this thorough treatment to nourish hair and scalp, moisturise hair shafts, shield the scalp from damaging UV rays, and promote the creation of collagen.
Additionally, the horse chestnut extract included in this treatment stimulates blood flow, which is good for nourishing and thickening hair. I was told that after the session, my scalp’s sebum level would be more balanced and my hair follicles would be better strengthened.
Omg, give it to me, please.
The Actual Treatment Process
After the consultation session, I was whisked away to a private cubicle to begin my treatment.
My customised treatment started with a deep scalp cleanse spray followed by a mask application to my roots. Helen was very generous with the mask and you can see it for yourself in these shots I’ve taken:
If you’re wondering why my hair looks messy, that’s because Helen gave me a little massage to make sure that the mask was effectively coating every empty spot on my scalp and hair follicles before leaving me to rest for 20 minutes to let the mask do its work.
It was cooling on my scalp and I loved the minty fragrance that accompanied the product.
When my hair mask time was up, Helen guided me to the hair-washing area and told me that a therapist would be with me shortly to give me a thorough rinse.
The therapist who attended to me gave me a revitalising rinse using lukewarm water, which I was grateful for since I was feeling a little chilly. She also reminded me to use my fingertips and never my nails when washing my hair.
I was given a little massage during shampooing and while a conditioner was applied to the ends of my hair, the therapist shared with me that conditioners should only be applied to the hair and not the scalp. We don’t want any unnecessary build-up adding to my already oily scalp, don’t we?
Anyhow, I was wearing a surgical mask but the scent of the products used was so pleasant I asked the therapist if they sold it in-house. (P.S. Yes they do!)
Back at my cubicle, the therapist applied a moisturising hair spray before semi-blowdrying my hair. We’re approaching the second last step of the hair treatment but I was looking forward to the little massage that comes right after the ampoule application. Hehe.
Just in case you’re wondering, the ampoule helps to stimulate hair growth, boost the immunity of the scalp, and strengthen hair follicles to enhance the anchoring of hair.
To make sure that the ampoule worked its magic into my scalp, I was given the massage I was looking forward to. From my scalp down to my neck and shoulders, I was treated to a mini-kneading session to get my blood circulating.
Similar to the last session, I was then treated with the Hair Growth Laser that emits non-invasive lasers to awaken my hair follicles and speed up regeneration. It may look scary to some but there’s no pain involved; you will only feel a little comforting warmth.
And we’re done after about 20 minutes and it’s time for a post-treatment scan.
Post-Treatment Consultation
I reunited with Helen again in the consultation room after my hair treatment and she put the scalp scan machine to work again.
Having experienced the “before” and “after” shots of my scalp during the first session, I had high hopes for this second one. And guess what? It didn’t disappoint.
If you’re skeptical about how one treatment can solve your hair woes, I’m living proof that you shouldn’t be. But of course, as with most things, severe hair problems don’t get solved after one treatment session.
After this session, I’ve learned not to underestimate what months of neglect can do to my scalp, and will certainly step up my game with regular, proper hair and scalp care to prevent my condition from worsening again.
And if you’re dedicated to nipping the problem in the bud, I suggest you give Topp Care Hair Solutions a chance to impress you.
Claim Your Promo Today
You may have a different hair or scalp concern from mine but rest assured that the professionals at Topp Care will be with you every step of the way.
Address: 3 Simei Street 6, #03-24, Eastpoint Mall, Singapore 528833
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday: 11 am – 9 pm; Weekend & PH: 10 am – 7 pm
For the latest news and promotions, follow them on Facebook and Instagram. You can also call them via 6645 3020 for booking or WhatsApp 9150 8917 for more information.
Are you itching for some entertainment without denting your wallet? Look no further! September 2023 has an assortment of thrilling events that won’t cost you a cent.
From lively markets and festivals to captivating performances, enlightening talks, and interactive workshops, September is packed with budget-friendly delights.
SINGAPORE RIVER FESTIVAL 2023 (7 SEP – 1 OCT)
Prepare for a sensory feast at the 7th edition of the Singapore River Festival, running from September 7th until the end of the month. This isn’t just about pretty lights along the Singapore River; it’s an immersive adventure. The Singapore River Festival 2023 offers live music, augmented reality (AR) experiences, delectable food workshops, and a series of events celebrating Japanese pop culture.
Explore the full event lineup on the Singapore River Festival website. Make sure to circle September 23rd and 24th on your calendar for a pet-friendly weekend featuring a best-dressed pet competition, a merchandise bazaar, pet health check-ups, and insightful talks by veterinary professionals.
Calling all pet lovers! On September 9th and 10th, 2023, Crane at Joo Chiat invites you to a weekend filled with delectable treats, playful activities, and adorable pet accessories. What’s even better? All the vendors at Pets Weekend are small local businesses, so you can support your community while enjoying quality time with your furry, feathered, or scaly companions.
Nighttime light displays always enchant, and in September, VivoCity’s Skypark combines the magic of light installations with beloved Sanrio characters. Enter the Garden of Lights, a nightly wonderland featuring enchanting light displays with Cinnamoroll, Gudetama, My Melody, and, of course, Hello Kitty.
Don’t forget your camera! The exhibit is open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, with the Sanrio Garden wonderland lighting up from 6:30 pm onwards.
Foodies, rejoice! Until September 10th, 2023, Jurong Point is hosting the mouthwatering FEASTival Fair. Featuring 26 food vendors from around the globe, including Japan, Thailand, China, Malaysia, and the USA, this food fair promises a wide array of sweet and savory treats. I look forward to viral Korean cheese coins from 2Ninja 1 Fatty, aromatic cinnamon rolls from Cinnabon, and mouthwatering wagyu skewers from Niku Master.
Location: 1 Jurong West Central 2, Singapore 648886
FAMILIES FOR LIFE (FFL) FAMILY SINGALONG PICNIC (9 SEP)
On September 9th, 2023, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, relax with your family at the Families for Life (FFL) Family Singalong Picnic in Gardens by the Bay. Enjoy beloved tunes from timeless animated classics, and don’t forget to sing along! Kids can indulge in free balloon sculpting and snacks, and the first 200 families will receive complimentary picnic mats.
UNIQLO X STUDIO GHIBLI POP-UP: A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE! (till 14 Sep)
The UNIQLO X Studio Ghibli Pop-Up continues to enchant until September 14, 2023. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli with captivating installations featuring iconic scenes and beloved characters. Pose beside Chihiro and No-Face from “Spirited Away” aboard the train, take flight with Kiki from “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” and marvel at the awe-inspiring moving castle from “Howl’s Moving Castle.”
That’s not all – don’t miss the enormous Catbus and Totoro inflatables from “My Neighbor Totoro”! Plus, if luck is on your side, you might even meet the iconic Yubaba, making special appearances at this pop-up extravaganza.
Image Credits: uniqlo.com/sg
As a bonus, all attendees receive an exclusive Studio Ghibli-branded tote bag, complete with a character poster and UTme! vouchers, allowing you to personalize your LifeWear with enchanting Ghibli designs (T&Cs apply). This is a magical experience you won’t want to miss!
Location: Bugis+, Level 2, 201 Victoria St, Singapore 188067
Mark your calendars and savor these thrilling events!
