The Top Three K-Pop Controversies in 2015

Posted by Editor on Apr 23rd, 2016 in Showbiz Industry | 0 comments

 

K-Pop or Korean pop music industry is sensational not just in South Korea but throughout the Asian region including Singapore. Some of the biggest award shows in the K-Pop industry such as MAMA awards are even held in Singapore from time to time. The most popular Korean music artists in Singapore are still Big Bang, Super Junior, 2NE1, Girls Generation, 2PM, and CNBlue. Last year, we’ve heard a lot of buzz from the world of K-Pop ranging from secret marriages, pregnancies, and rumored romances. Let’s get to know which among these controversies were constantly coming up in the 2015 headlines.

Kim Hyun Joong gets his ex-girlfriend pregnant

We first knew of Kim Hyun Joong in the Korean series Boys over Flowers, the adaptation of the Taiwanese hit drama Meteor Garden. He also tried to carve his name as a singer in the Korean boy group SS501. However, we’ve heard nothing of Kim Hyun Joong lately but controversies surrounding his name. His ex-girlfriend first released accusations in 2014 that she was being beaten up by the singer-actor. She then followed this with claims in 2015 that she’s had miscarriages and was pregnant 5 times during their 2-year relationship. Kim Hyun Joong first denied the accusations and then the couple both agreed to go through a medical test to confirm the allegations. The tests was released in the end of the year and resulted positive.

IU’s dating rumor and album accusations

We’ve also heard a lot of IU in the previous year starting with the rumor that she’s dating singer-songwriter Jang Ki-Ha. Then netizens made such a buzz about IU’s newly released album entitled Chat-Shire. Accusations were made against the album that it showed pedophilic themes in its lyrics of one of the album songs, album cover art, and Twenty-three music video. They also accused IU of plagiarism in the song Twenty-three with Britney Spears.

Yewon and Lee Tae Im on a variety show

Lee Tae Im and Yewon both made the headlines in 2015 as they participated in a variety show. It was reported that Lee yelled and cursed at Yewon because the latter spoke informally at her. Yewon denied speaking informally at Lee so the latter was forced to apologize publicly for her rage. However, a video surfaced online that shows Yewon speaking impolitely to Lee, causing a turnaround of public opinion. Netizens called for Yewon’s removal in the We Got Married variety show and even turned the incident into a social media meme.

Why I Love Listening to Audio Books

Posted by Editor on Apr 20th, 2016 in Favourite Lifestyle | 0 comments

 

Ever since the advent of the Internet and YouTube, Singaporeans have found listening to audio books as a productive way to spend their time. It also helps that some of the world’s leading motivational speakers promote audio books as a recipe for a successful individual. You’ll find as many interesting topics in audio books as you’ll find in printed books ranging from Harry Potter series to self-help inspirational books such as Think and Grow Rich. It is no wonder that many book lovers like me love listening to audio books.

This is the best medium for us auditory people

There are visual people and there are auditory people. Auditory people learn faster when listening and so their best medium when it comes to learning through books would be audio books. On the other hand, visual people have a tendency to be easily bored when listening to audio books because they are more comfortable with looking at something to keep their attention.

This helps me become productive

One of the best things about an audio book is that I can devour them while I’m doing something else. This is ideal for those busy people or for those who like doing multi-tasking like me. This is also why a lot of success is attributed to simply listening to educational audio books. They say that if you consume an audio book every day, it would be like going to a class. So by the end of a year, you would have completed an entire course just by this!

This helps me read faster

Some people plainly read fast. But I find that it’s easier to finish a book when someone else is reading it for me just like in an audio book. Speakers set the tone at a more ideal pace and they’re more consistent as compared to my down days when I tend to read books slower. Some audio books also have speed settings where you can adjust the reader’s speed according to your preference.

This makes reading more interesting

I love listening to British accents and audio books help me indulge in this sophisticated accent. Some audio books are also read by actors themselves which make listening to the story more dramatic and entertaining. It’s almost as if you’re reliving the entire book yourself and not just listening to it.

Most of them are for free

The best thing about audio books is that you can have them for free! Yes, for free. I search for them in YouTube or in other dedicated websites that offer listening to these books for free. They’re still of great quality, too, even though you don’t pay for them.

6 Easy Ways to Clear Adult Acne

Posted by Editor on Mar 31st, 2016 in Skin Care Guru | 0 comments

For something that occurs on most women, adult acne remains as a disheartening and mysterious condition. Most of us have struggled with skin that resists conventional treatments, such as facial soaps infused with salicylic acid and odd-smelling prescriptions creams. As the search for the effective products drag on, it’s quite easy to feel defeated. Fortunately, there’s still hope. Simply put the following practices to work to help clear adult acne off your skin.

1. Embrace Use of Facial Oil

Oil may be the last thing you’d want to put on your face when you’re experiencing an acne breakout, but there are several plant oils that act as sebum regulator and are non-comedogenic. Some of these oils are argan oil, shea butter and rosehip seed oil.

If you’re still hesitant, try using a single oil at a time like Josie Maran Argan Oil, or opt for blend of oils specifically designed for facial use. Stellar Lightweight Multitasking Facial Oil is another great option as it’s packed with antioxidants and essential fatty acids the skin needs. A little facial oil goes a long way, so start using it now by adding a few drops to your moisturizer.

2. Add Acne-Fighting Foods to Your Diet

Certain foods help our body meet the skincare products we use halfway. Specifically, foods that improve liver health should be consumed daily to achieve fairer skin.  Singapore dermatologists also suggest using lemon as it acts as a blood purifier, and it strengthens the liver’s enzymes. Other than that, also opt for foods that fight inflammation like berries, fresh ginger, and green leafy veggies. Finally, ensure that there’s enough zinc in your diet by consuming foods beans, oatmeal, and pumpkin seeds as it is vital for keeping your skin clear.

3. Minimize Use of Makeup and Personal Care Products with Phthalates

Present in some fragrance, lotions and nail polish, phthalates are known as suspected carcinogens and hormone disruptors. Since hormone fluctuations play a role in appearance of adult acne, experts advise to avoid using products that disrupt the endocrine system. While it may impossible to completely avoid products containing phthalates, make a difference by sticking and using natural products that cover large areas of your skin.

4. Take Supplements Wisely

While it may not seem like it, certain supplements contribute to appearance of adult acne. Specifically, synthetic versions of vitamin B12 and B6 are believed to worsen acne. Still, taking supplements is necessary especially if you’re limiting your animal product intake. Investing on vitamins made from whole foods is one way of making sure that you get proper nutrients without compromising your skin’s health.

Other than that, including hormone-balancing supplements in your diet can also bring dramatic results. Taking Diindolylmethane (DIM), an all-natural supplement, will help in detoxing the excess oestrogen from your body and in maintaining healthy hormone levels. Dermatologists also recommend taking Estroblock Pro to effectively treat hormonal acne.

5. Apply Some Concealer

Apart from consuming healthy foods and having a healthy lifestyle, using some makeup products also help in covering up adult acne. Applying concealer, for instance, provides a temporary fix. Wearing concealer deters you from picking your acne, which is really helpful in keeping acne-causing bacteria from spreading, reducing acne inflammation, and preventing skin scarring.

Simply opt for a non-comedogenic concealer that suits your skin type to do the job. If liquid or cream concealer tends to slip and slide off your face, try using light layers of mineral concealer like Alima Pure. Just ensure that you apply your concealer using a recently washed concealer brush or with a clean finger.

6. Stress Less

First things first: Don’t freak out if an acne or two shows up; panicking will only make things worse. Instead, make time to perform your stress-relieving activities like exercising to reduce excess cortisol and allow your skin to regenerate. An added bonus? Exercise delivers enough oxygen to your skin cells, making it difficult for acne-causing bacteria to thrive.

More than half of women in their twenties experience acne breakouts, so don’t stress out if you ever experience it yourself. Instead, use the aforementioned tips to battle those zits out and to prevent them from ever coming back.

How to Run a Successful Lunch Meeting

Posted by Editor on Mar 28th, 2016 in Favourite Lifestyle | 0 comments

Some of the most successful meetings in our office took place over a tasty meal at our favourite restaurant in Singapore, but dining while closing a deal comes with its own challenges. What’s the easiest food to eat as while you talk? When should you start talking shop? Even with only these concerns, preparing for a lunch meeting is stressful enough. But worry no more, we’ve got you set for success with these six tips for achieving a productive lunch meeting.

1. Look for a Perfect Location and Arrive Early

Nothing says you have everything under control like settling in your table with a drink in hand while waiting for your guest. As much as possible, arrive 15 minutes earlier to your chosen location to ensure that you’ll start your meeting on time, and to reserve a table in an area with minimal noise.

Although it’s more appropriate to meet your guest at the front of the restaurant in some circumstances, you’ll likely feel more ready to get down on business if you’re already settled on your table. Just ensure to pick a seat facing the door to keep an eye out for your guests and to make a quick note of where the restrooms are in case you need to take a brief and graceful exit.

2. Plan Your Discussions Based on Courses

Ideally, you already know what you want from this lunch meeting. Are you thinking of venturing into a new business opportunity? Are you checking up on the status of a project? Pick one or two things you want to be discussed during your meeting, and focus on perfectly executing it. Keep in mind that a restaurant lunch isn’t the place to review a list of your concerns, so focus on a few goals.

A great trick to do this is to think of your lunch meeting content happening in ‘courses’, the same way you’ll have a lunch, drink and get the tab. More concrete discussions can take place over the meal and wrapping it with some casual chit-chat is great way to end the meeting as you wait for the check.

3. Order Fork-Only Meals

Choose easy to eat foods for your meeting, and if possible, only order foods that are eaten with fork. Salads are always a good choice, as well as any combo of appetizers that come in tiny bites. You’d also want to let your guest order first, and just follow it with another order if he or she opts for two courses.

4. Jot Down Important Points

One of the trickiest parts of having a lunch meeting is handling papers or taking down notes as you eat. So do yourself a favour, and prepare a pen and notebook in a small pocket of your bag – you wouldn’t want to fish around for these items when your discussion gets interesting while you eat. You’ll also want to carry a notebook that’s a few inches tall to have enough room for your notes. If you’re bringing documents, however, then do opt for a pad folio with a zipper to keep everything organized.

5. End the Meeting With Authority

The end of a lunch meeting can be awkward if you don’t know how to properly wrap things up. If you have some concerns that needs to be cleared, discuss them while the plates are being cleared and before the check arrives. If you organized the meeting, then do the honour of paying for your meals. Close the meeting by inquiring about when you’ll next see the person, and feel free to let them depart first as you take care of the bill. You can also use this free time to jot down a few notes that you failed to write down during the meeting.

6. Follow-Up After Your Meeting

Not being in the office setting is a great way to further develop your business relationships, as well as your professional tool kit. To keep the momentum of lunch meeting going, send an email or a text message the same day to thank your guest for their time. Remember, a great follow-up is as important as the meeting itself since it gives you another opportunity to demonstrate your organization skills and professionalism.

Planning out a lunch meeting can be quite tricky, but using the aforementioned tips on your following lunch meetings will definitely ensure that you’ll achieve a positive outcome from the meeting you organized.

10 Important Things to Know Before Your Gynaecology Appointment

Posted by Editor on Mar 22nd, 2016 in Female Health | 0 comments

There comes a time in a woman’s life when she needs to start seeing a gynaecologist regularly. I started seeing one during my early twenties. Gynaecology visits are essential to every woman’s life to ensure optimum health of the reproductive system. But before setting an appointment with a gynae, here are some helpful points you should think about.

1. Scheduling an appointment with your gynae doesn’t need any reason.

Unlike with other doctors, you can visit your ob-gyn even if you don’t have any specific reason for doing so. In fact, some girls as early as 13 to 15 years old are advised to visit a Singapore gynaecologist to learn about proper hygiene and how to protect themselves from sexually transmitted diseases. If you have never seen a gynae before, now is the right time to schedule an appointment for yourself with good gynae doctors at Thomson in Singapore. Seeing a gynae as early as possible allows you to develop an open, honest and informed relationship with a specialist, making it easier for you in the future to comfortably discuss “awkward” topics related to your reproductive health.

2. Feeling anxious is just normal, especially during your first visit.

It’s normal to feel nervous when seeing a Singapore specialist for the first time, especially when it’s for addressing an issue that’s as personal and private as your reproductive health. Still, this feeling should not overwhelm you. Remember that you’re in control of your health. So, if you ever feel uncomfortable during any of your visits to your gynae, feel free to ask for your check-up to end.

3. Shaving or waxing isn’t really necessary before your gynaecology appointment.

Most women consider grooming their intimate areas as a part of their weekly or monthly beauty prep, but do know that waxing or shaving down there isn’t necessary before a gynaecological exam. Instead of shaving or waxing, simply clean your intimate part by washing it or using feminine wipes prior to your gynaecology visit in Singapore.

4. Bring a family member or a friend along during your appointment.

Asking a friend or family member to accompany you on your hospital visit can greatly help in easing your anxiousness during an appointment. You can ask your companion to stay in the examination room if you’re comfortable having the person around—or ask him or her to wait outside instead if you feel otherwise.

5. Being open about your reproductive health can greatly help in your examination.

While the thought of sharing your sexual history, concerns, and fears may seem awkward, being honest and open to your gynae about your reproductive health is crucial. Effective and productive healthcare only happens when trust and clear lines of communication are established. There’s also no need to worry about your privacy after the visit, since the topics discussed during your appointment are protected by the medical privacy laws of Singapore.

6. Rescheduling your gynae appointment is recommended if you have your period.

Getting a gynae exam while you’re on your period is never a good idea. If you’re getting a Pap smear test during your period, it’s not only going to be messy but inaccurate results may occur. The bleeding can interfere with the findings, while the hormonal changes can make your breast exam feel uncomfortable. So, do yourself and your doctor a favour by rescheduling your gynae appointment.

7. Drinking water before your appointment is recommended.

Since your gynae will ask for a cup-full of urine from you during the visit, make sure to drink more water before showing up to your doctor’s clinic. Your ob-gyn will perform a ‘dipstick’ test on your sample urine. This test is intended to detect any health issues, such bladder infection or diabetes, that you may be unaware of.

8. Giving blood samples isn’t necessary.

If you’re visiting your gynae regularly, then it’s unlikely that you’ll be asked for blood samples each visit. However, if you are thinking of getting an overall STD screening, or if you are having irregular periods and wish to know the possible cause, then you may be asked for a blood sample.

9. Getting a pelvic exam isn’t advised if you are under 21 years of age.

Regular pelvic exam and Pap testing are not recommended for Singapore girls who are younger than 21 years old unless you have specific problems you want to address. If there are reproductive problems that your paediatrician cannot address, it is the right time to approach a gynaecologist. However, keep in mind that routine exams like pelvic exam and Pap testing are recommended for women aging 21 years old and above.

10. Acquiring birth control pills is possible even without conducting an internal exam.

Undergoing a vaginal examination is not really necessary if you are planning to start a hormonal contraception. An abdominal-pelvic exam can be enough as it still provides a great deal of information even without undergoing a genital examination. Just remember that the timing of when you should start your hormonal contraception all depends on your menstrual cycle. If your period is normal, then you can start on the first day of your period. A negative maternity test can also serve as a go signal for you to immediately start your hormonal birth contraception.

Making the most out of your gynae visit is essential, so make sure that you keep these important things in mind the next time you visit your specialist.

Top Proposal Ideas This Love Month

Posted by Editor on Mar 17th, 2016 in Heart to Heart | 0 comments

 

No matter how women want to initiate and ask their man to marry them, the custom in Singapore is that it is still the man who ought to make the proposal, which should of course include the presentation of the engagement ring. Looking for a ring is easy because it is widely available – the more difficult part of making the proposal is choosing the right time and the right venue.

When proposing, there is this anxiety – whether she will say yes or no. It is important that you let your woman feel your sincerity as well as genuine love so you will be accepted. The good news here is that there are many ways to propose and definitely many places to consider. Remember that the secret to a successful proposal is the element of surprise. No matter how excited you are, you have to conceal your intention of asking her.

When you surprise her, she will be overwhelmed and joyous. Now this is the reaction that you want to see. Nothing compares to the happiness when your girlfriend says yes. To be successful, you have to bust your brains and wallets to look for the right place. Do not spend so much time busting your brains when it comes to places. Here are some places that can give you the answer you’ve been longing to hear:

1. Treading down the memory lane

There is no better place than somewhere that has significance to the both of you. It can be the first place you met her or the place she said yes to your relationship. To surprise her, you can put photographs in the trail and at the end, pop the question. Of course you have to create a touching speech together with a bouquet of flowers. If you want you can take her to a music bar and serenade her. If you like to bring it to the next level, why not write a song dedicated to her? That’ll be the best feeling.

2. The happiest place on earth

Every girl aspires for their “prince charming”. If you want to be that person, why not propose in front of a castle. You can plan a trip to Disneyland. Disneyland is the happiest place on earth so it is just right to propose there. To add more excitement, time popping the question with the fireworks.

3. The sunset

Many women like simple and intimate things. If your girl likes these things, you can simply take her to the beach or any romantic location and view the sunset together. Do not just pop the question right away. Wait for her to totally relax and pop the question.

4. Winter wonderland

There is no snow here so bringing her to winter wonderland will be very fascinating. Why not make a snowman and decorate it with accessories. That will serve as your spot to propose. While taking a stroll with her, bring her to the snowman and pop the question. Do not forget to drop down on your knee to be more romantic. A warning though, make sure that you keep her warm the whole duration of the trip because a complaining one will not see the joy of your proposal.

5. The fancy restaurant

The typical place to propose is at a fancy restaurant. Though you spend your date nights at fancy restaurants, nothing will compare to the day you decide to pop the question. Do not insert the ring in the champagne or cake because its cliché. You can surprise her by bringing her to a quiet area within the restaurant and pop the question. If you want the help of the restaurant staffs, do not be afraid to do so. If you like, you can take her to the rooftop garden with over-looking skyline. Taking a stroll after eating at the fancy restaurant can give you the energy you need to pop that question. If it is not too much, you can pre-decorate the garden with balloons or flowers. She will be blown away.

Regardless of where you propose, it does not matter. You could propose inside the house but you can still get the answer you desire. The point here is as long as you deliver it sincerely, your girlfriend will say yes. Make sure that when you propose, she looks good because she will want to look good in proposal videos and photos. Good luck to your proposal!