5 Must-Watch Shows And Films On Netflix

Who says the Circuit Breaker period has to be boring? Indulge yourself with entertainment, a glass of wine, and a pint of ice cream. From funny food shows to heartbreaking stories of marriage, here are some of the shows and films that you can binge on while in quarantine.

MARRIAGE STORY (2019)

Let us start this list with a lasting mark through the “Marriage Story“. This movie did not collect a 95% Rotten Tomatoes for nothing! Love is not always rainbows and butterflies. In fact, this story is about divorce. It starts with a couple describing the reasons why they fell in love with each other, but it quickly shatters the viewers’ illusions as they highlight why they are incompatible. The messy process revolved playwright Charlie Barber (Adam Driver) and his actress wife Nicole (Scarlett Johansson).

Nicole wanted to pursue her dreams in Los Angeles, where a new job awaits. However, Charlie was not on board. The tension finally breaks them and they lawyer up. Watch they re-build whatever is left.

IT’S COMPLICATED (2009)

Meryl Streep’s character in this movie was torn between two lovers. It centers the story of a successful bakery owner whose life is vibrant due to her ex-husband and her home architect. This romantic-comedy is filled with beautiful home layouts, lush backyard vegetables, and delicious pastries.

This art is the perfect encapsulation of the Danish word “Hygge“, the mood of comfort and wellness, in film.

BILLIONS (2016)

Ever wondered what it is like to fly your best-friend in an all expenses paid concert whenever you can? Well, that is what the main character of this show has done. Modern Billionare Axe was constantly pursued by U.S. Attorney Chuck Rhoades due to illegal trading. This drama TV series is all about gaining power!

Episodes are drenched in boss moves that can inspire you to work harder. For instance, Axe once ate a pizza with caviar toppings and Chuck drank the fanciest single-malt scotch at his home. Imagine the life of the rich and famous.

CRAZY, STUPID, LOVE (2011)

Crazy, Stupid, Love tops the list of my personal feel-good movies. Makeover scenes are prevalent in Hollywood, but only few are dedicated to men. If you have not seen this movie before, you have to prepare your eyes with the great fashion sense these main male characters have.

It follows the life of a middle-aged dad who was recently divorced. Cal attempts to dive back to the dating scene with the help of an elegant playboy named Jacob. Besides, it is a blessing to see the dashing Ryan Gosling on screen!

THE CHEF SHOW (2019)

This cooking show is a spin-off of Jon Favreau’s movie Chef in 2014. You may know him as “Happy Hogan” from Iron man and the Marvel universe. Jon along with renowned Chef Roy Choi go from state to state to experiment with different people. These people share their passion for food and cooking.

What’s more? This cooking show does not go by the book. There are no measurements whenever they cook. In fact, they both make fun of themselves whenever they make mistakes. They typically cook comfort food such as grilled cheese, lava cake, aglio e olio pasta, and fried rice. Delicious!

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Digital Resources That Can Help Your Sanity

The safest thing that you can do for yourself is to stay at home. However, staying at home can take a toll on your Mental Health. It is difficult to live in a world where you cannot meet your loved ones whenever you want or where you cannot accomplish your usual outdoor activities. At some point, the news can either bore or stress you out too.

Fortunately for you, there is a wealth of digital resources that can help you stay sane. Download one or all of these apps!

#1: ZOOM

It is important to stay connected despite practicing safe distancing. One mobile and computer app that can help you connect to your loved ones and to your co-workers is Zoom. Zoom meetings are all the rage these days! This is possibly due to the useful functions of Zoom such as screen sharing and virtual backgrounds. Apart from that, many people are conducting free webinars that focus on their skills or on Mental Health awareness.

Consider opening a delicious bottle of wine while you host a virtual party with your friends. It is happy hour somewhere, right? Moreover, you may connect with your significant other as you cook and eat a meal together.

#2: DUOLINGO

Duolingo is a popular app that gamifies language learning. It offers bite-sized listening and speaking lessons among over 30 languages. If you have been itching to learn Spanish to watch Money Heist more efficiently, then you may give this app a go. Interestingly, it includes more obscure languages such as Latin and High Valyrian too. GOT fans will know what I am talking about!

#3: HEADSPACE

If you are looking for a vibrant and positive app that can help you kick-start your meditation journey, search no further than “Headspace”. Headspace includes hundreds of short meditation recordings and lengthy guided sessions. Choose your own preference as these range from physical health to personal growth as well as from stress management to stress relief.

Be honest with yourself when it comes to what you really need at the moment. If you are downloading this app for free, you will be able to access limited free sessions. Otherwise, you may upgrade your subscription to get a full access to their meditation library.

#4: APPLE PODCAST

Apple Podcast and Spotify house a variety of Mental Health and self-care podcasts that can help alleviate the emotional stress that you are feeling at the present moment. A podcast available on Apple Podcast called “Mental Illness Happy Hour” tackles difficult mental illnesses such as PTSD and addiction through interviewing notable figures and celebrities.

Another podcast that you may listen to is the “Miss Psychobabble” podcast. This peeks inside the current issues and popular culture through the lens of Psychology. From finding productivity while working at home to gaining control in times of uncertainty, this podcast educates you about human behavior and solves it through practical tips.

#5: STOIC.MENTAL HEALTH TRAINING

The ancient philosophy of Stoicism dates back in circa 300 B.C.E. Stoics endure pain and suffering without complaints and rants. If meditation is your thing, you can probably enjoy the company of the “stoic.mental health training” app. This app provides personalized insights on what influences your sense of fulfillment and levels of mood. It also gives calming exercises in the morning and evening. What’s more? It has a philosophy-driven journal that will enable you to understand why you are feeling a certain way. It is okay to not be okay, all the time.

#6: ADIDAS TRAINING

Exercise and physical activity helps you to release some “happy hormones” or endorphins. Keep the consistency in your routine by downloading the free ADIDAS TRAINING app. This app lets you complete a workout for at least 7 minutes. It comes in a series of easy to difficult pre-made workouts.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

If you have a particular goal in mind such as weight loss, you may create your own training plan too. Comparing your progress with friends who use the app is also possible. This will enable you to monitor your group workout plans and goals.

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Stop Buying These “Essentials”!

I have to be honest! Since the Circuit Breaker (CB) period started, I have been purchasing essentials (such as sanitary napkin and coffee) and non-essentials (such as make-up and jade roller) online. Online shopping prevents me from being exposed to the possible dangers of the coronavirus. However, I felt that its convenience can trap me.

I had to become more aware of my spending patterns. I gave myself a maximum limit of twice a month to purchase my needs and wants online. This way, I will be able to track my parcels and spending more efficiently.

Two nights ago, Lazada had a Flash Sale on Apple Airpods. I had been eyeing this product for a long time and have been waiting for the perfect occasion to splurge on it. Despite its 20% drop, I decided to seek the advice of my partner. His opinion is of utmost importance to me. Thankfully, his voice of reason prevented me from purchasing the device that I will likely get tired of after several months. He helped me save S$200 that night.

There are many ways to save money. You can reduce your online shopping tendencies, expand your businesses, or invest in stocks. Every little bit counts when you are trying to save money during the CB period. If you have not realized it yet, here are some “essential” things that you should stop buying.

#1: AIR FRESHENER PLUG-INS

Ahhh air fresheners! Air freshener plug-ins have been all the rage in the 1990s. Those pine-shaped air fresheners may be doing more harm than good. According to the environmental testing company called IndoorDoctor, many air fresheners contain a type of chemical known as phthalates as well as formaldehyde. Phthalates are known to interfere with the body’s production of testosterone and have been associated to reproductive abnormalities, says the nonprofit National Resources Defense Council.

For Singaporeans who have pets, the use of air fresheners may feel essential. You need to find an alternative to keep your household fresh. Try creating scented candles by using natural essential oils. Start with this tutorial.

#2: BOTTLED WATER

Singapore’s tap water is generally safe for drinking. On some instances, you may encounter a poor-tasting water due to the chlorination or discolored water. Chlorination is necessary to keep the water safe from pathogens (i.e., bacteria and viruses).

Not only does plastic bottled water add up to the plastic waste, but it also adds up to your costs. Save more by refilling your tumbler or jug from the tap. Ensure that you bring this tumbler or jug while you are out of the house too.

#3: PLASTIC UTENSILS

Yes! Disposable utensils enable you to lessen the time spent on dish washing. However, this cheap and convenient item may add pollution to our environment. Help the future generation by reducing the plastic waste.

Use metal utensils and straws wherever you go. There is a metal utensils and straws set in Lazada, which will cost you about S$7.99.

#4: DISCOUNTED ITEMS

Just because an item is on sale does not mean that you really need it. I know how attractive a Flash Sale can be. In fact, I saved a lot of money from buying my Christmas gifts through Flash Sales. However, problem may start when you purchase several on-sale items without planning to do so.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

If you do not need and want the item, skip it. Are you willing to pay for it in full price? If so, then it highlights your essential need for it. Keep these in mind!

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7 Exercises You Can Do At Home While In Quarantine

As new COVID-19 cases continue to emerge in the country, the World Health Organization has urged individuals to stay healthy while in self-quarantine. In Singapore, all fitness centers and stadiums have been closed. Running outdoors does not require wearing a mask. However, walking outside of your house does.

Staying at home for prolonged periods of time can pose a significant challenge for remaining physically active. Do not succumb to the negative health effects of sedentary behavior! Exercise at home!

#1: JUMP ROPE

There is a reason why boxers incorporate the classic jump rope to their training. It improves a range of skills such as balance, stamina, endurance, and coordination. Not to mention, this lightweight and tangle-resistant rope is adjustable for different heights.

#2: MEDICINE BALL

While I will not require you to spend a huge amount of money on a full set of medicine balls, you may invest in one or two of them. Medicine balls are about the size of a Basketball, but can weigh from 2 to 30 pounds. Use these weighted balls to support your ab exercises. Ultimately, it is fantastic for building your upper-body power. Try throwing it against the wall or to a partner.

#3: CARDIO WORKOUT

For only 7 minutes, you will be able to compete a full-body workout using the free app called Seven. According to the website: “Seven’s workouts are based on scientific studies to provide the maximum benefit in the shortest time possible.” Tailor-made workouts target your goal areas to make sure you get the most out of your training.

#4: RESISTANCE BANDS

Resistance bands are cheap, convenient, and light. They retail for about S$3.90 at Decathlon. Toss a couple of resistance bands in your drawer to enjoy the 20 to 50 pounds of resistance in aid of your strength training. Research about the poses that you can do with it.

#5: 3-MOVE CARDIO CHALLENGE

Created by Eisinger, this 3-Move Cardio Workout for beginners will help you get your day started. It consists of the skater, three-point toe touch, and flutter kick. If you are starting out, try each move for 30 seconds with a pause of 30 seconds in between. You may increase the length of each move as you get the hang of these exercises.

Full workout here.

#6: PILATES

My mother is a Pilates instructor. She believes that a Pilates workout is helpful for your core and glutes muscles. Small and controlled movements are essential to hone specific muscles. Complete the 10-minute Pilates workout once or twice a week.

Full workout here.

#7: YOGA

I am a firm believer of the benefits of rhythmic breathing with a series of flowing movements. This practice is called Yoga. Empty your mind as you focus on the physical aspects of this discipline. Moreover, you will be able to enhance your flexibility and balance. Since I cannot practice Hot Yoga anymore, I delight myself with a couple of Yoga exercises found in YouTube. Choose a video length and a difficulty level that you are most comfortable in.

Start small with EkhartYoga:


You are now looking to the future with hope and expectations. What better investment could you make than with your own health?

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4 COVID-19 News Headlines Worth Reading

From receiving up to S$600 worth of Solidarity Budget to closing down of Changi Airport Terminal 2, here are some of the COVID-19 news headlines that will greatly affect your lifestyle and your budget.

1. “Solidarity Budget: All adult S’poreans to receive extra one-off cash payment of S$300, taking total to at least S$600”

Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat announced yesterday (April 6) that all Singaporeans above the age of 21 will receive a one-off cash payment of S$600 to cushion the weight that social-distancing measures have caused. This financial step shall cost the Government an extra S$1.1 billion as it increases the Solidarity Budget by S$300.

Singaporeans who provided the Government with their bank account details will receive the payout by April 14. While, the rest will receive the lump sum by cheque from April 30 onward.

2. “Changi Airport Terminal 2 to suspend operations for 18 months amid COVID-19 pandemic”

As the pandemic continues to affect the aviation sector, Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan announced the upcoming closure of Changi Airport’s Terminal 2 (T2). It will suspend operations for 18 months, starting from May 1. Airlines operating at this terminal will be relocated to Changi’s other tree terminals.

The suspension of T2 operations will allow Changi Airport Group (CAG), its retailers, its airlines and its ground handling firms to save on running costs during this time. Moreover, it will speed up the current upgrading works at T2.

3. “Singapore Expo being prepared to house recovering Covid-19 patients”

Isolation areas have been prepared for COVID-19 patients and those who have been advised to have a 14-day quarantine. Health Minister Gan Kim Yong has confirmed last Sunday (April 5) that the Singapore Expo Convention Hall and Exhibition Centre is currently in the process of being turned into a facility to care patients who are on the road to recovery. This will help ensure that there will be continued hospital capacity to treat patients with severe symptoms.

According to him: “For patients with mild symptoms, generally they don’t need any medical support. In fact, they can actually recover and be cared for in these facilities until they are well and can be discharged, without having to go to the hospitals.”

Let us do our part to heal as one by being responsible for our actions.

4. “Durable, self-disinfecting coating applied on all HDB lift buttons”

One of the things that we frequently touch on a daily basis is the lift button. Teams from Singapore’s 16 town councils applied a self-disinfecting coating to the lift buttons over the past two weeks. This was made possible by the donation of 650 litres of sdst by the Changi Airport Group’s (CAG) philanthropic arm Changi Foundation. The self-disinfecting coating is called sdsr. It kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi upon contact.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

It remains in place, even with repeated cleaning and scrubbing, as chemical bonding agents help it to adhere tightly to surfaces at a molecular level. It is said to last for up to three months. That is one way to keep the HDB lifts and lift lobbies in Singapore safe!

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