Month: June 2024

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Amazing Ways To Stay Fresh And Energized At Work

two women working on a laptop together

It’s always a struggle to stay fresh and energized at work. Especially when the post-lunch slump hits. However, it’s crucial to do so to maintain productivity and overall well-being. Whether you’re facing long hours, tight deadlines, or just facing the daily 9 to 5 grind, keeping your energy levels up can make all the difference in the world. Here a some amazing ways to keep your eyes open and body full of energy!

man eating a nutritious breakfast

1. Start Your Day with a Nutritious Breakfast

Have you ever heard the saying, “A healthy breakfast sets the tone for the rest of your day”? Well, it does. Foods that provide sustained energy like oatmeal, yogurt with chopped fruits, or avocado with whole-grain toast are great breakfast options. Do remember to avoid sugary cereals and pastries that can lead to a mid-morning energy crash. A balanced breakfast that’s rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats will certainly do the trick!

woman pouring a glass of cucumber water to rehydrate herself

2. Stay Hydrated

Ever noticed that when you’re dehydrated you have extreme fatigue and difficulty concentrating? Well, it’s important to drink loads of water throughout the day. It’s better if you keep a water bottle at your desk and set reminders to take regular sips if you’re prone to forgetting. If plain water doesn’t appeal to you, try infusing it with slices of lemon, cucumber, or mint leaves for a refreshing twist.

3. Take Regular Breaks

Sitting for long periods can lead to physical and mental fatigue. Incorporate short breaks into your work routine to stretch, walk around, or just rest your eyes. Taking a 5–10-minute break every hour can improve focus and productivity. During these breaks, consider stepping outside for some fresh air or doing a few quick stretches at your desk.

man going for a walk

4. Incorporate Physical Activity

Another great way to boost energy levels and reduce stress is by physical activity. If you have the time, do include some form of exercise in your daily routine. For example, a morning workout, lunchtime walks, or even a quick session of desk exercises. Do you have a standing desk? Pair it with a portable treadmill. Anything is possible today. Besides, regular physical activity helps to improve blood circulation, increase stamina, and enhance overall mood too!

5. Eat Light, Balanced Meals

Heavy meals can make you feel sluggish and sleepy. Opt for light, balanced meals that include a mix of lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Avoid greasy or high-sugar foods that can lead to an energy crash. Snacking on fruits, nuts, or yogurt can also help maintain energy levels throughout the day.

6. Manage Stress

Stress can drain your energy and negatively impact your performance. Practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness to stay calm and focused. Taking a few moments to relax and clear your mind can help rejuvenate your energy and improve your concentration. There are also plenty of wellness social media pages you can follow and distress to.

7. Optimize Your Workspace

An organized and pleasant workspace can enhance your productivity and energy levels. Ensure your desk is tidy and free from clutter. Personalize your space with items that inspire you, such as photos, travel, or food. Proper lighting and a comfortable chair can also make a big difference in how you feel throughout the day.

image of a clean and organized office space

8. Get Adequate Sleep

Quality sleep is essential for maintaining energy and alertness. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to allow your body to rest and recharge. Establish a regular sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. Avoid indulging in caffeine and late-night snacks, and using electronic devices before bedtime to ensure a restful night’s sleep.

Final Thoughts

As you can see it requires a combination of healthy habits, regular breaks, physical activity, and stress management is key to staying fresh and energized. Hence, by including these strategies in your daily routine, you’ll be able to see the difference in no time!

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How To Curb The Flu Season And Protect Your Immunity

sick with the flu during flu season

How To Curb The Flu Season And Protect Your Immunity

The viral flu season is here, and many have fallen prey to it. Hence, it’s essential to take proactive steps to protect your health and boost your immunity. Flu can also lead to severe health complications, especially for the young, the elderly, and those with low immunity. Weave healthy habits into your day-to-day and make informed choices so you can reduce catching the flu and other infections.  

1. Get Vaccinated

If you haven’t already, get yourself vaccinated! The Influenza Vaccine or flu jab is designed to protect you against the most common strains of the virus each season. Over here, flu vaccinations are readily available at clinics and hospitals. Vaccination also reduces your risk of getting the flu and helps protect those around you. No excuse for getting it as soon as possible, huh?

2. Maintain Good Hygiene

Practicing good hygiene may seem like a no-brainer but there are plenty around us who are still irresponsible when it comes to hygiene matters. Always wash your hands frequently, use hand sanitizer whenever you can, avoid touching your face, and cough or sneeze into a tissue and properly dispose of it afterwards

healthy eating with a plate of broccoli

3. Boost Your Immune System

A strong immune system is your best defense against any infection. For those of you who don’t believe in vaccines, you may look for other alternatives to boost your immunity naturally. For example, you can incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains into your diet to eat a balanced diet. Drink more water to keep your body hydrated, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep.

4. Manage Stress

Stress is a key factor for chronic stress – physically and mentally. It can also weaken your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. It’s important to practice stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga. Something as miniscule as going for short walks in nature would also help. As long as you are taking the time to relax and unwind – that’s essential for maintaining both your mental and physical health.

5. Avoid Close Contact with Sick Individuals

The flu virus spreads easily from person to person. So, if you know someone is sick, try and avoid close contact with them. If you are sick, be responsible and stay at home to prevent spreading the virus to others. This simple step can significantly reduce the spread of any virus within your community.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, curbing the flu season and protecting your immunity involves a combination of vaccination, good hygiene practices, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and stress management. By taking these proactive steps, you can reduce the risk of catching any sort of virus – viral or not – and ensure your immune system is strong enough to fight off infections.

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Discover Bombay Sapphire’s Latest Creative Campaign In SG

gardens by the bay cocktail

Get ready to see Singapore in a whole new light with Bombay Sapphire’s exciting new campaign, “Saw This Made This.” The innovative initiative blends art and mixology (how about that!), inviting you to discover the creative inspiration that lies within Singapore’s iconic landmarks and vibrant bar scene.

The campaign launched on 11 June 2024, launched a creative call-to-arms with their global campaign. It saw Eight of Singapore’s top bars crafting a unique set of cocktails inspired by famous local landmarks, creating a visual and culinary feast for the senses.

Featured Bars and Cocktails

Here’s a sneak peek at a couple of the bars and their landmark-inspired cocktails:

Park View inspired by bartenders Christopher Foo and Shadrach Shan, Atlas Bar
Flight Of Nostalgia inspired by Park View by bartenders Christopher Foo and Shadrach Shan, ATLAS Bar
The 1979 reimagined by the Dragon Playground by Nazri Zurimi, Sago House
The 1979 reimagined by the Dragon Playground by Nazri Zurimi, Sago House
Flowing Still reimagined by the ArtScience Museum by Jimmy Kok, Elephant Room
Flowing Still reimagined by the ArtScience Museum by Jimmy Kok, Elephant Room

Other cocktails include reflections of the Singapore Flyer, Raffles Hotel, Gardens by the Bay, Esplanade, and Merlion at prominent bars like the Writers Bar at Raffles Hotel, Employees Only, and more.

For the next three months, these creative cocktails will be available at the participating bars. Each drink, a masterpiece on its own, is inspired by the landmarks that define Singapore’s skyline. This collaboration also features stunning visuals by local photographers Yik Keat and Wei Ping, capturing the essence of these landmarks and the resulting cocktails.

Maria Kim, Trade Ambassador for Bacardi, emphasizes that this campaign aims to inspire everyone to find beauty and creativity in everyday moments. “With the ‘Saw This Made This’ campaign, we hope to inspire people to see the world in a new light and unleash their own creativity,” she says.

As renowned filmmaker Baz Luhrmann, the Creative Director of the global campaign will have it “creativity lies within us all. Indeed, it does.

Don’t miss out on the exciting showcase of incredible creativity within Singapore’s bar scene, and visit the participating bars and have an intoxicating evening today!

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5 Quick And Healthy Smoothie Recipes To Make

assortment of healthy smoothies

Find yourself short on time when it comes to meal prep? Bored of having the same meals every day? Why not get your hands (not-so) dirty with smoothies? Smoothies are a brilliant way to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet – especially if you are looking for healthier food options or are aiming for weight loss. Besides, they are quick, easy to make, and can be tailored to fit your nutritional needs. Head over to a supermarket near you and put those CDC vouchers to good use today!

tropical green smoothie

1. Tropical Green Smoothie

Don’t get put off by anything green – this smoothie is packed with a chock full of nutrients and is perfect for a refreshing start to your day.

What you need:

  • ½ cup frozen fresh mango (chopped into small bits)
  • ½ cup frozen fresh pineapple (chopped into small bits)
  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup spinach
  • 1 cup coconut water

Instructions:

  1. Add all the ingredients to a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth.
  3. Pour into a glass and enjoy.

Benefits: This smoothie is rich in vitamins A and C, which boost your immune system and improve skin health. The coconut water provides electrolytes that will keep you hydrated in sunny Singapore.

berry blast smoothie

2. Berry Blast Smoothie

Is purple your favorite colour? Do you love berries? Then you can for the Berry Blast Smoothie! Berries are widely known for their antioxidant properties, making this smoothie a great choice for a mid-day energy boost.

Berries are known for their antioxidant properties, making this smoothie a great choice for a mid-day energy boost.

What you need:

  • ½ cup strawberries
  • ½ cup blueberries
  • ½ cup raspberries
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup almond milk

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Serve immediately.

Benefits: Packed with antioxidants, this smoothie helps combat free radicals in the body. The addition of Greek yogurt also adds a good amount of protein and gut health protection, making it a balanced snack.

banana and oat smoothie

3. Banana Oat Smoothie

Channel your inner George of the Jungle and get yourself a perfectly concocted cup of Banana Oat Smoothie. Fit for breakfast or post-workout, this smoothie will surely keep you full and energised throughout the morning!

What you need:

  • ½ cup rolled oats
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup milk (or any milk of your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon peanut butter

Instructions:

  1. Place all ingredients into a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth.
  3. Enjoy your hearty and filling smoothie.

Benefits: This smoothie provides a mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Oats help with digestion, and the banana provides potassium for muscle health.

green detox smoothie

4. Green Detox Smoothie

Another green drink – this one’s perfect for cleansing your system and giving you a nutrient boost.

What you need:

  • ½ cucumber
  • ½ lemon (juiced)
  • 1 green apple
  • 1 cup kale
  • 1 cup water

Instructions:

  1. Add all ingredients to a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
  3. Drink immediately.

Benefits: Kale and cucumber are great for detoxifying the body. The addition of zesty lemon adds a dose of vitamin C, while the green apple adds a touch of sweetness and fiber.

chocolate smoothie with protein powder

5. Chocolate Protein Smoothie

For all the sweet tooth out there, who says you can have chocolate if you’re keeping fit? Treat yourself to this delicious and healthy chocolate smoothie post-workout.

What you need:

  • 1 banana
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
  • 1 cup milk (or any milk of your choice)
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds

Instructions:

  1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.
  2. Pour into a glass and savor the chocolatey goodness.

Benefits: Is it healthy or unhealthy? Obviously the former, this concoction provides protein for muscle recovery – potassium from the banana, and antioxidants from the cocoa powder.

Final Thoughts

Incorporating these quick and healthy smoothies into your diet can help you meet your nutritional goals while enjoying delicious flavors. Whether you’re in Singapore or anywhere else, these smoothies are perfect for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle or lose weight. Start your day with a nutrient-packed smoothie and feel the difference in your energy levels and overall health.

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8 Best Ways To Keep Your Home Free From Pesky Allergens

Allergies can significantly impact your quality of life – especially if they are triggered by common allergens found in indoor environments. There are several causes like: dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold can cause sneezing, itchy eyes, and other allergic reactions. Keeping your home allergy-free requires consistent cleaning and some other changes. Here we have some effective tips to keep the pesky allergens at bay.

1. Regular Cleaning Routine

Establishing a regular cleaning routine is crucial in reducing allergens in your home. Dusting, vacuuming, and mopping should be done frequently to eliminate dust, pet dander, and other particles. Using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter can be particularly effective, as it traps tiny particles that other vacuums might miss.

2. Control Humidity Levels

Mold and dust mites thrive in humid environments. Keeping your home’s humidity levels between 30% and 50% can help prevent these allergens from proliferating. Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners to maintain the right humidity levels.

3. Use Allergy-Proof Bedding

Dust mites are a common allergen that can live in your bedding. Using allergen-proof covers for your mattresses and pillows can create a barrier against dust mites. Wash your bedding, including bedsheets, pillowcases, and blankets, in hot water every week to kill any dust mites present.

black dog sitting on a sofa

4. Keep Pets Clean and Groomed

Pet dander is a significant allergen for many people. If you have pets, regularly bathe and groom them to reduce the amount of dander they shed. Keep pets out of the bedroom to minimize exposure while you sleep. For those with severe allergies, it might be necessary to keep pets out of the house altogether.

5. Reduce Clutter

Clutter can collect dust and provide hiding spots for allergens. Channeling your inner Marie Kondo and keeping your home organized and free of unnecessary items can make cleaning easier and more effective. Opt for furniture with smooth surfaces that can be wiped down easily and avoid heavy drapes and carpets that can trap allergens.

6. Improve Ventilation

Proper ventilation can help reduce indoor allergens. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens to remove moisture and cooking fumes. Regularly open windows to allow fresh air to circulate.   

7. Use Air Purifiers

Air purifiers with HEPA filters can significantly reduce airborne allergens, such as pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. Place air purifiers in frequently used rooms, such as the bedroom and living room, to improve the air quality in your home.

Maid cleaning kitchen cabinet

8. Hire Professional Cleaning Services

For a thorough clean, consider hiring a part-time cleaner or professional cleaning service in Singapore. A part-time cleaner can help with deep cleaning tasks, such as shampooing carpets, washing curtains, and cleaning upholstery, which can be challenging to do on your own.

Final Thoughts

Keeping your home allergy-free requires consistent effort and strategic measures, but it’s not difficult! If you require additional help, there are plenty of professional cleaning services to help you out. 

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7 Easy Things To Avoid To Save Aircon Electricity Cost

aircon is noisy

In Singapore’s hot and humid climate, running an aircon is essential. However, it can also lead to high electricity bills. Hence, by making a few simple changes and avoiding common mistakes, you can significantly reduce your aircon electricity costs. Read on to find out more! 

1. Setting the Temperature Too Low

One of the biggest mistakes people make is setting their aircon to an excessively low temperature. Setting the thermostat to a very low temperature makes the aircon work harder and consume more electricity. Instead, put your aircon to a comfortable 24-26 degrees Celsius. This temperature range is enough to keep your home cool while reducing energy consumption.

2. Not Using a Programmable Thermostat

Failing to use a programmable thermostat or not setting it correctly can lead to unnecessary energy usage. A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day, ensuring the aircon is not running at full capacity when you are not at home. By programming your aircon to operate only when needed, you can save a significant amount on your electricity bill.

3. Ignoring Regular Maintenance

Neglecting regular aircon maintenance can lead to reduced efficiency and higher energy consumption. Dirty filters, coils, and vents force the aircon to work harder, consuming more electricity. Schedule regular aircon servicing with a reliable aircon servicing provider in Singapore to ensure your unit runs efficiently. Regular maintenance includes cleaning or replacing filters, checking for leaks, and ensuring the coils and fins are in good condition.

4. Keeping Doors and Windows Open

Running the aircon with doors or windows open allows cool air to escape and warm air to enter. Thus, making the unit work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Ensure all doors and windows are closed when the aircon is on to maintain a consistent temperature and reduce energy usage.

aircon running 24hrs a day

5. Blocking Airflow

Placing furniture or other objects in front of air vents and units can obstruct airflow, reducing the aircon’s efficiency. Make sure that vents are clear of obstructions to allow free circulation of cool air. Proper airflow ensures that the aircon can cool the room more effectively, reducing the need for it to run continuously.

6. Using the Wrong Size Aircon

Using an aircon that is too large or too small for your space can lead to inefficiency and higher electricity costs. An oversized unit will cool the room quickly but will cycle on and off more frequently, using more energy. A unit that is too small will run continuously to cool the space, also using more energy. 

7. Not Using Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans can help distribute cool air more evenly throughout a room, allowing you to set your aircon at a higher temperature while still maintaining comfort. Using ceiling fans in conjunction with your aircon can reduce the overall energy consumption by easing the load on the aircon.

Final Thoughts

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can significantly reduce your aircon electricity costs while maintaining a comfortable indoor environment. Regular maintenance, proper usage, and optimizing your aircon settings are key to achieving energy efficiency. For professional help, consider scheduling regular aircon service with a reliable provider in Singapore to ensure your unit operates at its best.