If you have been following me on Instagram, you would have seen my tirade of sadness over my dead Jawbone UP24 (but you can read the review about it here). For 6 months it had served me well, my 24/7 companion for day and sleep. But alas, like most of its kind, it does dies out on their users quite frequently.

The thing is, no electronic service store could fix a Jawbone no matter how minor the issue is. So if you are under the 1 year warranty, you have the option to get a new replacement. I wanted the same UP24 in black, but my provider only have pink-colored stocks left (UGH) as Jawbone had decided to stop production for the UP24.

So instead, I was offered a new UP2, which was launched this year as a replacement to UP24. It basically does the same thing as the UP24 does – track sleep, steps, log workouts, log food and has SmartCoach in the app. There is a new app for all models of UP2, UP3, Up Move and UP4, and it has slight changes in certain features and is much faster. This is my review of the UP2 after a week of using it.


AESTHETICS
It looks really great! Even better than its predecessor, seeing that it is 45% smaller, and it lays flat now. The UP24 annoyed me at times because it has a very angular shape which doesn't allow me to lay my hand flat on the table, or hurts my wrist when I lie down in an odd angle. The UP2 is nice and flat, with a beautiful brushed aluminium crosshatch design that conceals the three notification lights. (Initially we change modes by tapping the aluminium (which is touch sensitive) but Jawbone gave a new firmware upgrade which kind of takes it away – read changing modes below). I got the light grey colour and I think it looks way more feminine compared to the other version in black. It looks like a piece of jewellery and can even be worn to weddings and still look chic!

Other than its looks, I like the new clasp a lot. Granted, the UP24 way much easier to wear as you just slip it on, but I find the UP2's clasp system is quite sophisticated looking. Many people complained that the clasp is fiddly, and that they have lost their UP2 because it would just come undone during the day. One – the clasp is slightly fiddly the first time you wear it, but after adjusting to get the right fit and learning how to wear it (it's just like a watch, really) I find that I can put it on with my eyes closed. Two – about the clasp coming off. I have worn it for a week and not once has mine come undone. My assumption is that perhaps most people who complained about this issue are wearing their UP2 very loosely (which naturally, like a charm bracelet, would fall off if you wear it loosely, duh) and didn't bother adjusting to a nice fit. Or, they are really clumsy with their hands and brush it against their jeans/bag really hard, which can easily dislodge the clasp if you are in fact, wearing it loosely.



In conclusion, the design of the clasp can still be improved on, but does not pose a big issue if it is adjusted and worn properly. I still find it a elegant, and that is saying a lot when it comes to fusing fashion with fitness. Maybe most men are the ones having issues with it because they are not used to wearing bracelets like we women do – which I think Jawbone can improve upon.

UPDATE: On 9th September, Jawbone unveiled new designs and colours for the UP2, featuring a new clasp mechanism. No one can complain about the clasp now that it is definitely much better and the colour choices are simply gorgeous! Great job Jawbone!

The redesigned UP2 features a sleeker band, more colour options and a new clasp.

CHANGING MODES
Initially, you change modes on the UP2 by tapping the screen twice to see what mode you're in, and then holding on to the surface to switch modes. By the time I got mine, Jawbone has already introduced a new firmware that brings you "automatic sleep detection" – this firmware eliminates changing modes via touching the surface. In fact, you can't do it at all. This was because many complained about the screen being very "erratic" where it would not register tapping at times, or would change modes by the slightest accidental brush against something. Which means that all modes now cannot be changed via band, you can only change it on your phone, via the UP app.

For one, I like how they have decided to upgrade and make things better for users. The touch sensitive surface is definitely not very smooth and does not register taps sometimes. Before I upgraded, I had brushed against it by accident and turned it to sleep mode during the day.

However, the changing modes via phone is really annoying because it means I have to keep opening the app and changing modes where previously I just need to press the buttons on my UP24 without touching my phone. The good thing about "automatic sleep detection" is that your band will know if you are asleep, even if you forgot to change to sleep mode – and therefore will prompt you once you wake up to log your sleep into the app.

But I am not a fan of using the Stopwatch mode via app. It's really annoying to have to open the app just to change modes. I have my Spotify & Timer apps running simultaneously on my phone when I workout, so having to open the Up app just to tap Stopwatch mode is really annoying and affects my phone's speed at times. Otherwise, at times when I already have my phone all strapped into my armband, then I remember about changing modes and have to fish my phone out of the armband again just to do it. It's so annoying! Jawbone needs to come up with a more user-friendly firmware for this issue.




THE NEW UP APP
Is amazing! It works so much faster, syncs a little faster too and has better sleep tracking info. The previous app was already amazing, but the new one has great little changes in some areas that makes the overall experience so much better!

The only quip is that it syncs much more frequently, which can really kill battery life. So just be aware of the bluetooth power that is required of your phone. You really need to keep a portable charger handy if you're going to be out all day long.


ACCURACY
Although many people have commented on the UP2's inaccuracy, I don't seem to find any faults with it. In fact, I find that the tracking seems more spot on because now it seems to track my steps when I walk up/down the stairs, where previously the UP24 would not register those sort of steps. Definitely an improvement, in my opinion. It logs my workout time fine, and also the calories seem to be quite on point too. I will be testing it out at an 8KM marathon this weekend, and we'll see how close its accuracy really is. My UP24 was pretty accurate when I tested it during previous marathons, so I don't expect less of the UP2.


REMINDERS & SMART ALARMS
They still work the same as before, if not better. The UP24's notifications were just a green sun and a moon, which would blink in different manners to convey different meanings. The UP2 has 3 multi-coloured light notifications: orange running man for Active mode, a white speech bubble for general reminders/notifications, and a blue moon for Sleep mode.

My bedtime reminders would cause the band to both vibrate, and have the white and blue notifications light up. My 4pm reminders to take my pill, would just flash white. I really like the new lights in different colours, you don't need to see the icons to know what reminders are flashing. They are also very discreetly built on the brushed aluminium surface – you wouldn't even know it's there until the lights start to flash. The new firmware still allows you to single-tap the top to dismiss notifications, and that has worked very well with no glitches.. yet.


STILL NOT WATERPROOF
Unfortunately. Even the higher range UP3 & UP4 are not waterproof. They are all only splash-proof, which means washing dishes and showering is okay, but not taking it for a swim. Which is really odd because the UP app's workout log has an option to log your 'swimming' workouts – and I don't see how any of the UP models can do it unless we swim with the band encased in a waterproof bag? Ridiculous.

Like most people, I want Jawbone to come up with an amazing waterproof tracker that has the typical Jawbone style in the looks department. We are so accustomed to wearing out bands 24/7, and it would seem a waste to have to take them off for beach holidays, pool parties, surfing or swimming.


STILL LOVING THE NO-SCREEN CONCEPT
While I understand that A LOT of people in the fitness community wants a sort of screen on the UP bands, I do not agree with that. I love it as it is right now, with non-obtrusive lights that only come on when needed, and looks totally NOT like a fitness tracker. It's so chic and subtle, like a undercover spy with loads of class, so I hope Jawbone does not ruin that by adding little screens. Why have a screen when you probably would wear a watch on either wrist as well, and look like a fool who's wearing 2 watches? Stop complaining about design because it is already pretty great, people. If you want something with a screen, go buy a fitness watch or something. (those things are hideous in my opinion)

Easy to style, anywhere, anytime.

BATTERY LIFE
As it drains your phone battery, it also drains itself quite rapidly. Because I have three alarms/reminders set in a day, my UP2's battery seems to last exactly 7 days or less, even after a full charge, where it promises 10 days. Not too happy with this as my UP24 could last me 2 weeks. However, the good thing about the UP2 is that it would remind you to charge, when it has at least a day of battery left. Hopefully Jawbone would come up with a firmware to rectify this issue in future.


CHARGING
It is a different ball game this time around. The UP24 had come with a cover (that can be lost quite easily) that you need to uncap and plug the concealed head jack into the charging dongle. The UP2 makes things so much simpler. Under the band are 4 magnetic points which you align with the new charger's matching points, and the band will start charging immediately. It so simple that I really do not understand some reviewers on Amazon who says they hate it because it takes 10 minutes to align the magnetic points. No it does not! I do it in less than 3 seconds! This charging method is used on all UP2, UP3 and UP4 models. I think it's brilliant and I love it.

Julia Roberts wearing the UP2 – photo from Instagram @Jawbone

CONCLUSION? Still one of the best in the market! It is for people who are into style and wants a tracker that looks good in any given situation, but still functional. I am so lusting over their new colours and especially LOVE that gold one. I might just get an upgrade next year!

There are so many methods to keep our health and figure in check. I have tried tea-toxing, juice cleansing and even specially formulated breakfast drinks. Here's a new one which I hadn't heard of up until now – slimming jelly!

It is not technically a detox, but it's main purpose is to help maintain and aid weight loss.

Developed by Swiss Biotechnologies International in Geneva, Switzerland, the +Centa Svélte Slender Jelly is definitely one of the easiest weight management supplements in the market. I have had the privilege to review a box, and let me break it down into sections for you.

HOW DO YOU TAKE IT?
It works by taking 2 sachets a day – one before breakfast and one before dinner. So simple! I think what drew me to this product was the fact that it was so easy – no hot water and cups needed, or any pre-prepared juices that needs to be carried around in a chiller. The sachets are so purse friendly, you can easily pop one in your bag to bring out with you. Serving size is quite small, at only 12g, so eating it literally took me seconds. *om nom nom*

WHAT IS IN IT?
Key ingredients in this product includes Garcinia Cambogia Extract, Acai Berry Extract and L-Carnitine – they make up a cocktail that is full of antioxidants (acai berry), an agent to block sugar & starches from turning into fat (garcinia cambogia, the extract from a type of tamarind) and also an appetite suppressant (L-carnitine). The other ingredients consist of young honey orange extract and purple tea – which I think contributes to its flavor and color. They are produced using their Max Effect slimming technology which allows the product to burn and stop fat from forming in the body, as well as stops excessive urges to eat for up to 24 hours.

Nutritional Facts
Serving Size: 12g (per sachets)
Serving Per Pack: 20 sachets
Per Serving 12g
Energy 4.1kcal
Carbohydrate 2.63g
Protein 0g
Fat 0g
Dietary Fibre 1.6g

Each sachet is fat-free, which is great and has some dietary fibre to help a little with bowel movement. There is quite an amount of natural sugar, but it isn't exactly clear as to how much.


SO, WHAT DOES IT TASTE LIKE?
First of all, the texture is jelly, but it has small particles within that gives off that feeling like when you're eating chia seeds. They're small but crunchable, if you know what I mean? As for the flavor, it was quite sweet. I was surprised and enquired to see if there were any added sugar. There isn't, the sweetness derives from the natural fruit sweetness that comes in the form of fructose (fruit sugar) which is okay in small amounts. Two sachets a day gives me that sugar fix, and I found myself actually not craving sugar at all throughout the day. The flavor reminds me of berries, which I can only assume is what acai berry tastes like, since I have never tasted an actual acai berry before. It's quite similar to blueberries, in my opinion. Overall, the flavor and texture are both pleasant, provided you like jelly and berries.

ANY RESULTS AFTER?
Yes, and no. Let me explain myself.

First of all, I found that it has no effect whatsoever when it comes to curbing appetite (which the official site claims to last up to 24 hours). Perhaps the jelly is too little and that amount of L-carnitine has no impact on me. I still find myself getting hungry every 2-3 hours after a meal, so it definitely only helped with curbing my sugar craving.

Secondly, I am working out 3-4 times a week, and eating clean for almost every meal while trying this out. Therefore, it goes hand-in-hand with helping me lose some weight (which I did) and I am pretty happy with the results. It's not major weight loss, but I have shed water weight and my tummy feels much trimmer and I can ease better into tighter jeans.


If you want to give it a go, +Centa Svélte is available at all leading pharmacies in Malaysia, retailing at RM95.29 for a box of 20 sachets. Check out their website and Facebook page for more info.

Photo credit: @chopstickdinerlunchbox

I am a fan of healthy lunchboxes, and I wrote a whole post dedicated to why we should bring a lunchbox to work. However, when it comes down to it, the fact is that many people 'do not have the time' to cook, or do not possess the skills to do so – resulting in eating out most of the time.

I happen to be a very picky eater and absolutely cannot do chap fan (mixed rice/economy rice) which is what most people in the workforce do each day. I cook my own lunch most of the time, but there are times where I do not have the energy or inspiration to do so – which is why the rise of healthy lunchbox deliveries in Malaysia are one of the best things that has ever happened.

One of my absolute favorites, Chopstick Diner, is an example of wholesome, good foods that is not only affordable, but good for the body and soul too. Its founder, Elaine Ho, is a Food Technologist by profession, and a foodie at heart. She started Chopstick Diner as a food portal on educating people on food and providing simple recipes (she still has them there), but by August 2014, she revamped the site into a business that delivers healthy lunchboxes within the Klang valley.

To better understand the idea and concept behind her brainchild, she answers some of my questions on making it work.


What is the inspiration behind Chopstick Diner, and why chopsticks?
I started this site as a food portal, offering people recipes and writing up short articles based on the knowledge that I know. After running the food portal for about 2 years, I decided to revamp the site into a food delivery business, while still using the name Chopstick Diner for the business. Being Asian, I wanted the website to be associated with my heritage and so when it comes to food, looking at a pair of chopsticks, you'll immediately know it has something Asian about it that is unique to itself. Healthy food + food delivery + eaten with a pair of chopsticks =  Chopstick Diner!

What prompted you to get into the healthy-lunchbox-delivery business?
My background is in food science, so I learnt a lot about the mechanics of food, quality systems, everything and anything food. Armed with this knowledge and working as a Quality Manager for 6 years, I was particular about what I ate and how it was prepared. Coming back to Malaysia after living in Australia for 10 years, I was most amazed to find some friends eating out for every meal... and it was considered "normal". I couldn't see myself doing that, as I am used to always preparing something home cooked and healthy for my family.

Providing people with recipes to cook from wasn't enough as I always hear lame excuses like "I don't have time to go to the groceries",  "I'm always stuck at work", etc. I thought, "Hey! I need to do something about this!" Why not deliver healthy food straight to them so I won't have to hear anymore excuses of not eating healthy due to time/work constraints?

Photo credit: @chopstickdinerlunchbox & @alyshealow

Being an online business, how long did it take before you start seeing Chopstick Diner flourish?
Luck kicked in pretty quickly and most people began to hear about Chopstick Diner through word of mouth and of course, social media had helped a lot too. By the 2nd week of business I had to prepare almost 50 lunchboxes myself and even carried out some of the deliveries too! It was super crazy as I also have 2 toddlers to take care of, on top of this business.

What is your daily schedule like?
I'm normally awake before 7am, and I'll drive to my central kitchen (which is 2 minutes from my home) to check on production. My production team starts work around 4am – washing veggies, grilling meats, preparing sauces etc. I usually go in halfway during the production process to spot check the lunchboxes to ensure the quality and presentation of the food.

Production and deliveries normally go out by 9.30am. The delivery boys will come around that time to pick up the boxes and make their rounds to every customer who has placed orders for the day. I spend most of my afternoons replying to emails and also attend a few meetings. My work resumes around 9pm onwards when I have to consolidate the orders for production the next day.

Photo credit: @chopstickdinerlunchbox & @chiceditions

Is healthy-eating a big part of your family's mealtimes?
Definitely! I ensure my kids have enough intake of veggies and fruits in their diet. For example, instead of having normal white rice, I prefer to give them organic bario rice or red rice as it is a much healthier choice.

As a mother, how do you get around the challenge of getting the kids to eat more healthily – since we know kids are no fans of veggies? 
It's so true that kids hate veggies. I have a handy hand-blender where I blend their veggies into their soup/stew/pasta sauce. That way they won't bite into something crunchy like carrots or celery (and know I have tricked them) and I also cook crunchy veggies for a longer time so they will be softer.

What are the three most popular dishes sold on Chopstick Diner (in order of popularity)?
1. Half half Chicken caesar (I think people like the variety)
2. Fresh Spring Rolls
3. Chicken caesar salad

*Michelle's note: Her fresh spring rolls are the bomb and my favorite!

Who is your biggest inspiration when it comes to making good, wholesome meals?
Yotam Ottolenghi. His food is so simple and delicious. I'm not a big fan of fine dining, small portion meals. I think meals should be full, wholesome and healthy, just the way my lunchboxes are.

Are there any future plans to expand Chopstick Diner and/or its menu?
I'll be expanding my menu in the next couple of months. I'm working and experimenting right now as I need to get it right before making it available for my customers. Passion and love plays a big part in ensuring my customers receive healthy, wholesome meals and I want that to show through the lunchboxes I prepare for them.

Chopstick Diner also features a weekly special alongside its regular menu, and has an easy, seamless ordering system. Orders placed before 10pm will be delivered the next working day. To start ordering your healthy lunchbox, click here.

I guess you can say I'm a little slow catching on to the fitness tracker bandwagon – especially since the Jawbone UP24 was released late 2013, and the latest Jawbone UP3 is about to be released (although there is a little delay with pre-orders).

However, I still think the UP24 looks so much more appealing compared to the UP3 – I especially love the swirl designs and how it curves to fit around your wrist like a bracelet. Designed by the infamous Yves Behar, you can expect streamlined and clean, seamless lines to be incorporated. Compared to other fitness trackers that look like watches or clasp on like a watch, this looks like a fashion accessory and one where you can easily slip on or off with ease.

I know that there are numerous reviews of this amazing piece of technology all over the web – and you can read one of the better reviews here, so I would only be covering a post on what I like & dislike about this nifty little gadget.

The UP app recording my workouts on Stopwatch Mode, and praising me for getting at least 8 hours of recommended sleep for 3-days straight.

WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THE JAWBONE UP24
You literally wear it 24-7. It is designed in such a way to accompany you everywhere – at work, in the shower and in bed. It doesn't feel uncomfortable and is light enough that it doesn't even feel like there's something there. Most importantly, it will not give you rashes like this other fitness tracker.

It doesn't look like a fitness tracker. I like how it doesn't have a display, because it would be so silly to look like you're wearing two watches at once. And honestly, after getting home after work, all I want to do is take my watch off – not so great if it's a fitness tracker, which must be worn at all times. Instead of a fancy screen or numerous buttons, the UP24 has clean lines (in a swirl design) and a sleek silver button that looks good enough to be worn to events, meetings and is not obtrusive, especially if you picked the onyx-colored one like mine. Black and silver is so classic, so this band fits in with my lifestyle perfectly and fashionably.

It is simple to use. There are only four modes to do all you need with a fitness tracker – Wake, Sleep, Stopwatch and Power Nap. They are all controlled by just one button and you can easily switch from mode to mode. I like its simplicity – as compared to most trackers that have screens and are quite complicated to use (unless you keep using it until you get used to it). UP24 is easy to learn and adapt to.

Wireless Bluetooth syncing. At any time of the day, you can check your progress by just opening the app, and your collected data would sync into the app within seconds. Your stats and progress would be updated and ready to view. If you lose your phone, no worries as the data are all stored in the Cloud and can simply be synced back into the app again upon login. I absolutely love the ease of using this tracker and its app.

The app is pretty amazing. You need the app to go hand-in-hand with the UP24, otherwise it's sort of pointless. The app helps you view your progress for the day, track your sleep and sleeping patterns, and calories burned with quite detailed data. You can even track your mood, food, goals and workouts. It's very colorful, interactive with useful SmartCoach tips that come in daily based on your habit and needs. (3 days in using this, SmartCoach has a 'Today I Will' challenge to do more of what I've been lacking in the past few days – like eat more fibre, drink more water, walk at least 5,000 steps, etc.)

I love how their sleep-tracking is quite superior and detailed. They even praise you if you get the right amount of sleep for a few days straight. Somehow it makes you want to sleep on time every night.

Connect with friends who are using UP bands, and challenge one another. The only downside to this is that your friends need to like this gadget and be willing to fork out quite a bit for it. Otherwise, you can always team up with anyone from the UP community to challenge and motivate one another.

Reminders, alarms and alerts – no screen needed. The UP24 does all these by vibrating. It will vibrate to remind you to get ready for bed, to move around if you're sedentary for too long (Idle Alert) and even for certain alerts that will appear on the screen of your phone. The Smart Alarm can be set to wake you up gently before your actual wake up time, based on your light sleep patterns – so when it feels like your sleep is getting lighter, it will start to buzz you. Smart indeed!

Weekly emails with your week's workout summary. I just got mine after starting my Jawbone UP24 life last Wednesday, so here you can see my progress and stats. These are emailed out to you every Monday, so keep a lookout for them. I think it's a good way to keep track of your week, don't you think?






WHAT I DISLIKE ABOUT THE JAWBONE UP24
It is not waterproof. The band is only resistant to rain, sweat and showers, it should not be submerged. But even so, I've read stories where people who use it in the shower found that it stopped working weeks later. :/ I'm quite bummed cause this means that I can't bring it along for beach holidays or go swimming with it. This is where the new UP3 is better, as it is waterproof up till 10m.

The UP app and Bluetooth usage kills your battery. Like I can go from 100% to just 77% in less than an hour. I find it useful to always quit the app and turn Bluetooth off to save juice. But the app would remind you to sync your data if it hasn't synced anything for quite some time.

Charging means taking it off for 80 minutes. Yeah, that's the duration for it to get a full charge, as I frustratedly found out upon receiving it, and leaving it to charge while itching to try it out. 80 minutes of movements would undoubtedly be left unrecorded, which is quite a pain. The charging method also requires you to remove the cap (and hope to not lose it, it's so small), plug it into the charger which then plugs into a computer's USB input – quite a lot of plugging and unplugging, don't you think?


Well, as you can see, there is very little I dislike about this product, and there is a lot I really love about it. Granted, it is one of the best-looking device worn ever so inconspicuously on the wrist and I love looking at photos of how people accessorize with it. Here are some photos of various Jawbone UP24 users from around the world on Instagram. (Sorry I didn't manage to record your names when I saved them, please let me know if you happen to come across this post!)




I initially wanted the orange colored band, but was worried that it might not match so well with some occasions/clothing pieces. So black it is, and no regrets!

It took me about 2 weeks of research and lusting over the UP24 before I decided to take the plunge and buy one. They don't come cheap, and they are priced differently in Malaysian stores. In tech stores, they are between RM500-RM580. On Lazada, I found some to be quite exorbitantly priced at RM699! Thankfully, the one I found on Zalora was only selling for RM499, and with my available store credits and discounts, I only paid RM284 for mine, which is quite a steal, in my opinion.

If you decide to buy yours on Zalora, use discount code ZBAPQDA0 to get 15% off total bill. (This code can be used for anything, all year long) ;)

VERDICT? It is one of the best fitness trackers, based on my research, and my experience with it so far. I'd recommend it for anyone (bloggers and fashionistas) who want something simple to track basic stuff (but gives very detailed data) and help you keep to your fitness goals.

Do ya like my sleep-selfie? (Okay I lied, I still have make-up on.)

It is a day not so much for sleep, but for celebrating sleep for what it is – a luxury for many, an indulgence for those who are lucky enough and a health benefit for everyone. In other words, sleep is a determining factor between a lazy day and a productive day, binge snacking and healthy eating, dangerous and safe driving, and often is the key between a bad day and a good day.

Now, in conjunction with World Sleep Day, renowned sleep-supplement brand Rilax Zzz is giving you a chance to win a relaxing trip to the beaches of Redang where you can rejuvenate and have fun with your family or friends.

Before we get on to that though, what is Rilax Zzz? I'm sure most of you have seen this product on the shelves of our local pharmacies. Developed by LiveLife Bio Sciences AG in Switzerland, this product is an all-natural sleep supplement formulated to help ease you into snoozeland. Containing their award-winning ingredients Lactium and L-Theanine (green tea extract), this sleep formula is bound to have you snoozing like a well-fed baby.

Some key points I like about this product:

• It is NOT like a sleeping pill, if you wish to stay awake, you can do so even after taking the pill.
• You wake up with no side-effects or grogginess. I foresee this as my new buddy for long-haul flights!
• Helps those with jet lag, menopause or even insomnia to sleep better as it improves quality & length of sleep.

I have honestly have not tried this product out yet, but these are based on the brand's claims and testimonials from their happy customers. I guess enough sleep makes one a happier person, just like how food makes a hangry (hungry+angry) person much more pleasant.





If you're all for the World Sleep Day movement, take part in their #BadSleepGoodSleep contest to win a getaway to Redang Island for FOUR people. Isn't that generous of them? You get to relax with your best buds or family members – for 3D2N with an all-inclusive snorkeling package and accommodation. It involves snapping TWO selfies, one to show your physical and mental state after a night of bad sleep, and one after a good night's of sleep – and shared on Facebook & Instagram (with proper hashtags, of course!) Easy, no? For full details, check out the contest site here or their Facebook page.


NOW, FOR A BLOG GIVEAWAY!
You didn't think I was just going to tempt you with the Redang Island trip, did you? In conjunction with World Sleep Day, Rilax Zzz is giving away 10 boxes of Rilax Zzz 6 capsules, each retailing at RM23. That's a whole week's worth of good night's sleep awaiting you, dear friends.



All you have to do is to enter your Rafflecopter entries below, and follow the instructions given. You have to answer the question given by commenting on this blog post before you click 'I commented', otherwise your entry will be disqualified.

Each different entry method earns you points, and the higher your points, the higher your chances to win one of these! You can even drop by everyday and put in as many entries as you like till the end of March. Remember, I have 10 to give away!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Terms & Conditions:

• Giveaways is valid for Malaysian residents only.
• All decisions made are final.
• Incomplete entries will be disqualified.
• Closing date: 31st March 2015 (Winners will be announced on 1st April)
• Winners will be contacted via email and will be informed of collection venue (at selected Caring outlets).

Happy Sleep Day!

So, you know like how all my new year's resolutions always involve getting fitter and leaner?

Well, I achieved it in 2011, kept it up well in 2012 and 2013, but faltered in 2014. So this year, I'm back to square one with this resolution. Sucks, but that's life.

Anyways, to help myself (and now, to help you too), I started making these really cute, customized wallpapers for my iPhone, using my favorite fitness quotes from all over the internet, to keep my motivation in check. Then someone asked me where I got them from, because they wanted to look for the same one too for their phone.



That got me thinking like hey, I should share these online with everyone. After all, nothing's original – the quotes and photos used are certainly not mine – and everything is meant to be shared. So, here you have it, downloadable 'fitspiration' for your phone! At the same time, if you love these quotes as much as I do, I have included a "click to tweet" feature that helps you tweet them without having to copy and paste. (Aren't I awesome?) Enjoy, and keep up your workouts!

Note: I know these are all made in iPhone 4, 5 and 6 formats, but i promise you, they work pretty well with other phones too. On iPhones with iOS 7 and above, the frosted glass effect on these vibrant colors are pretty amazing.

It was one of those nights where I was craving for something soothing, so that I can sleep easily after I'm done with all my blog work. Alas, I'm very sensitive to caffeine (even a little) and drinking teas at night usually make me fall into a restless sort of sleep – you know, the kind where you're so tired you could nod off immediately, and yet your mind whispers in intervals, "hey, what's that sound?" or "what should I wear tomorrow?" It's just hard to nod off completely.

So I had a stroke of genius. (But okay, many others probably had thought of this sooner) I have a bunch of fresh spearmint leaves in the fridge, which I was planning to add to my smoothies, so I took a few sprigs from the bunch.




ALL YOU NEED ARE
1 cup freshly boiled water
2 sprigs mint

Just peel every leaf off each sprig, and add them into your cup of hot water. Leave to steep for about 5 minutes, then use a spoon to scoop them out. Or like me, you can leave the leaves in for an extra minty flavor – and I like to chew on them as well so it doesn't bother me to have leaves with every few mouthfuls. Mint is very great for cleansing the system and it is perfect to use as a detox for your bowels once a week.





It's very refreshing and not overly minty – I am so loving this new discovery. I'm even seriously considering growing my own mint sprigs so that I can have an even fresher cup of mint tea.

Enjoy!

When I'm not cooking my healthy meals, I am constantly on the lookout for quality food stuff for consumption because there's not much time for cooking most days. For example, my lavish breakfast of grapes, half-boiled eggs, toast, lemon water and pressed juices – it takes quite a lot of time to prepare and then I'd end up with only 10 minutes to scarf down everything.

I may have found a solution in Oxydrinks, another Modbox surprise! It is a product that is 100% natural, made of a combination of 22 wholesome plant-based foods. Doesn't sound too filling, right? But it is, because this drink is massively dense in fiber.

You mix one sachet into a mug of hot water and voila, an instant meal. I know instant meals generally receive bad repo as they are usually quite unhealthy (that sodium content, ugh). Not Oxydrinks though, as they are sodium-free, trans-fat-free, cholesterol-free and contains no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.

What they do have is a whole lot of nutrients combined from plant-food within the black, green, yellow, red and white color spectrum. You know how they say the more colors on your plate, the better, right?







So this is how I typically have breakfast on-the-go now (or when I oversleep). Hot water, mix mix mix (not very easy to mix, requires quite a lot of wrist-power) and one bowl of fruits. It's probably just me, but I feel like I need to munch on something to feel like I'm actually having a proper meal. So I often take something solid with my more 'liquid meals' – and today's accompaniment are blueberries. I love blueberries, second to strawberries. (Also, do you love my doggie mug? It's so cute, I use it for most of my hot beverages.)

Okay so, I bet you're wondering about the taste. Well, all I can say is, if you can withstand the taste and texture of plain oats (I really can't find any good relationship with oats), you can easily take this because it is better than oats, in my opinion. The taste reminds me of a cross between vegetarian instant noodles and Nestum oat drinks – except that it's neither salty nor sweet, with a mild bean-taste. It also has clear veggie bits that you can see, and the rest looks just like oats. The texture is much smoother though, so it isn't bad at all.


So, what are the benefits of Oxydrinks?

• Easy and very fast to make.
• Contains no additives, salt or trans-fat.
• Helps reduce acidity in your body.
• Low caloric count (bonus!)
• In general, healthy and rice in fiber.
• Gives good energy.
• Keeps you full till the next meal.

Anything that's good for your health, comes from the tummy. So always be cautious and selective about what you put into it. Try Oxydrinks today, and let's toast to health!

I have owned a few H&M sports bras to know what it means to have both style & functionality. This Spring, the amazing designers in H&M have come up with a new line of sportswear that has expanded its sports section for ladies, men and even kids.

“Spring is about fresh possibilities at H&M Sport, whether you are mastering your favourite sport or trying something new. Layering is important for the best performance, whether it’s in the gym or out in the wilds.” – Petra Smeds, H&M Sport women’s designer.


In the new line, layering is the key. Fabrics are made breathable and functional, but still maintaining stylish details that keeps you looking great (despite being covered in sweat). I love the new gym bras in the collection – they are so colorful and vivid, they essentially scream spring with their bright prints and breezy material. The breathable mesh is one of the important details, to wick away sweat and keep air flowing through.

Running tops are another staple in the collection. with marathons being all the rage here in Malaysia, one can never have too many marathon-friendly gear. I love how they have included a small running rucksack to keep small things like money or ID during a run. There's also a really cool iPhone (or any smartphone) strap-on armband which are exorbitantly priced in 'professional running shops'. When it comes to H&M, quality at a reasonable price is always what we consumers look forward to. ;)

They also have an outdoor range, and we Malaysians most probably don't need them in the sweltering heat. However, if you are going overseas for marathons or any other sports events, they have a great range of outdoor gear – to keep you protected from the elements. The outerwear includes not only mesh details but also fleece to keep you warm and cosy as you work it. Wind and waterproof jackets are also an addition for the men, for those who loves nature's challenge. The outdoor pants are also equipped with utility pockets for extra functionality.

“Athleticism, strength and performance are the main inspirations for H&M Sport this spring, with pieces that work for the body no matter the level of skill. Functionality and technical details not only add an advantage, they also look great too.” – Jonas Blom, H&M Sport men’s designer.

For the kids, cute dance and ballet pieces are unique for the girls, whereas the boys get vivid prints on their beanies and zip-up jackets for their wild adventures outdoor.












The Spring 2015 collection from the H&M Sport range will be out in selected H&M stores worldwide by Jan 2, 2015! Keep a sharp eye out for these gorgeous gear!