Category Archives: Health & Lifestyle

Pickles.ph Seafood Squash Bake

Pickles.ph delivers calorie-controlled meals at affordable rates!

Straight to your home and at no delivery charge at all, Pickles.ph sends delightful, calorie-controlled meals.

Pickles.ph Meal plans

To make a reservation, I went to the company’s reservation page, filled out the form with the necessary details like weight, activity level, preferred meal plan and the like. I stood by for confirmation via email and that’s it. A text message the weekend before my calorie-controlled week gave me a heads up re delivery schedule (early morning on weekdays).

Pickle.ph Reservation Form pic

PROS

  • Home delivery
  • Hassle-free calorie-counted meals
  • Delicious variety of dishes
  • Delicious juices (Premium plan offers this!)
  • Low-carb, high-protein options available
  • Each meal comes with a label with motivating lines and list of instructions re refrigeration, heating, etc.
  • Packages come with the day’s menu and microwave instructions.

Pickles.ph Premium 1500 calorie meal

CONS

  • Each meal does not show the number of calories you’re eating.
  • Delivery only available within most Metro Manila cities.
  • Most meals have to be refrigerated and microwaved.

Pickles.ph Seafood Squash Bake

 

If you guys are interested, I suggest you check it out at https://www.facebook.com/pickleph/.

Oh, and shameless plug, I mentioned the meal delivery service on my healthy-eating article here.

Top 3 Things To Consider When Buying a Trampoline

Anyone looking for indoor and outdoor trampolines should consider three factors before making the purchase: general trampoline features, types and safety recommendations. All three are sufficiently outlined and explored in this nifty infographic from Trampolinea, a brand new website on all things trampoline.

Click on below infographic to view larger version.

Buying a Trampoline Infographic

Wrap Your Feet With Christmas Spirit

With Jack Frost nipping at your nose and snow gathering around your boots, what better present is there than something to keep your feet comfortable while walking in a winter wonderland? The variety of socks available, in all different colors and styles, make socks a wonderful holiday gift to warm the heels of any loved one on your list.

Almost anyone can use more socks and will love to receive ones that fit their personality. Choose from crew socks for active athletes, knee highs for women who dress up, or plush fuzzy Mopas socks for anyone who wants their feet swathed in softness on a colder winter’s night. Knit foot covers are the perfect choice for those who like to lounge in comfort. They are almost like light slippers to keep feet warm on chilly winter mornings.

Choose between an almost infinite number of colors and patterns to please anyone who adores specific things. For example, choose a fun zebra animal print for the wild child in your family or a pair featuring cute little kitties for the animal lover in your friendship circle. Wrap up a pair of bold rainbow striped socks for your colorful cousin or audacious geometric red socks for your artistic aunt. Pick out a few classic solid hues for your more conservative relations and get a couple bright designs for your fun-loving relatives.

Socks are not only a practical gift but can be exciting, as well. For example, plan a holiday sock party. It can be for your family or for an office celebration. Everyone brings a pair of holiday themed socks. Fill the socks with small stocking stuffers, like jewelry charms and travel lotions for the ladies, sporting goods stores gift cards and ties for the men and little bottles of favorite beverages and Christmas candy for everyone. Have a drawing to choose who gets to pick what socks first. Liven it up by filling some of the socks with gag gifts for a Dirty Santa take on the game, like lumps of chocolate coal or fast food coupons.

One of the most practical ways for staying warm all winter is to keep your feet dry. This timeless advice is the reason for a few true classic presents under your tree. Show all your loved ones how much you care by offering a fun and festive way to keep their feet warm this holiday season.

Acutrim: Needle-free Acupuncture for Weight Loss

Back in high school I was a little too self-conscious about my weight. I thought I was too fat, and I envied my slimmer, taller classmate Erica who, at 5’4 1/2″ only weight 88 lbs. At 99 lbs, I thought I was a heifer.

Unhealthy body image aside, I was relatively a healthy eater. I rarely craved sweets, and I chose boiled or broiled fish at home whenever I could. When I realized how much good food I was missing, I broke my habit and straight away gained 10-15 lbs in college. Fast forward to 2016, and while I feel a bit satisfied I no longer look like a waif, I think I may have gone a little overboard. At 130 lbs I’m overweight for my height.

Early this month, I went for 4 Acutrim sessions at Contours (about a week or so after the 6-session LaserFit trial).

Post Workout Look

The Needle-Free Acupuncture

Acutrim is an interesting offering, considering it uses the ancient Chinese medicine philosophy of acupuncture. Just one session every week for 4 weeks, they say, would be sufficient to curb cravings for about half a year. What I like about this modern version of acupuncture is that, there are no needles. It’s needle-free, as in no needle will be used to pierce my skin, unlike how people used to do it with acupuncture. This is an easier and safer treatment.

To help people lose weight, acutrim targets ten pressure points on the ears, three on the arms and two on the legs. Why these points, you ask? The pressure points on the ears are believed to affect weight control, such as those for the endocrine and adrenal glands as well as the stomach. Certain points on the ears can also affect mood and the release of stress hormones, the same hormones responsible for our food binge moments.

Each acutrim session takes about 30-40 minutes. Instead of a needle, a type of pulse massager will be used to stimulate specific points on your body. Electric current passes through the tip of the massager, and you will know it’s working when you feel a little heat, vibration or deep pressure on your body. It helps that you notify the technician if the pressure gets too intense–the acutrim pen will can easily be adjusted.

The Verdict

After one session, I left the studio a little hungry so my SO and I went for a snack. Interestingly, I didn’t feel much and I was curious whether the entire trial would really work. The following day I had breakfast and I felt full after a half cup of ginataang kalabasa. Between the second and third sessions, however, I would often get cravings. My hormones and the free food at the office are to blame, as well as my lack of discipline. After the fourth session, my food intake was a lot less, and my cravings became far between. I may also have grown more conscious and pressured to lose 12 lbs lately (to fit in my wedding dress).

Although the acutrim treatments may have been so-so, I feel like they have helped me better regulate my mood after the fourth session. Just five days after my last session, I’m still on the fence whether acutrim is worth a try. This would probably work a lot better on people who has the will power to stop eating after feeling just a little full. To make sure you really feel the difference (even emotionally and physically), the Contours Advanced Face and Body Sculpting Institute recommends you undergo eight sessions.

For more info, check out Contours Advanced Face and Body Sculpting Institute’s Facebook page.

3 Reasons Why Whipped Waxing Salon Works For Me

I just love coming back to this place. Ever since my first session, I’ve only had wonderful experiences at Whipped. Here are a few reasons why:

1. HAS CLEAN, PRIVATE ROOMS

Spa rooms are sacred ground as far as privacy, hygiene and comfort are concerned. At Whipped, the rooms are clean and orderly. Sure, you can’t expect amazingly spacious rooms in a regular boutique in Fairview Terraces, but at least at Whipped everything is clean and serene. To be fair I didn’t set my expectations too high. And since I’ve been to other affordable sugaring salons, Whipped’s walls caught me off guard. The walls are high and will ensure privacy in every session.

Whipped Private Waxing and Body Scrub Room

Whipped Hygienic Towels

Fresh, clean towels are available as well!

Technicians wear gloves and face masks to ensure hygiene and client safety. The staff is very friendly, as well.

2. OFFERS DELICIOUS SCRUBS

Whipped Body Scrub Flavors

Whipped knows its scrubs! Regular body scrubbing is awesome for the body cause it helps unclog pores, prevent painful ingrown hairs and even increase blood flow. Whipped body scrubs come in three delicious flavors: Strawberry, Tangerine, and Sugar cane. The sugar cane variant contains finer scrubbing granules, making it a little bit more expensive than the others. Speaking of prices, Whipped also…

3. CHARGES AFFORDABLE RATES

As of May 14, 2016, here are Whipped’s new services and rates (prices in Php):

Individual sugaring session

Eyebrow – 170 (female) | 250 (male)
Upper lip – 150 | 250
Lower lip – 150 | 230
Face – 250 | 350
Underarm – 250 | 320
Half arm – 300 | 400
Full arm – 375 | 450
Chest – 300 | 400
Back – 300 | 400
Bikini – 350 | 450
Brazilian – 650 | 750
Half leg – 500 | 600
Full leg – 700 | 800
Full body – 1750 | 2300
Stomach – 250 | 350
Buttocks – 300 | 400
Beard/Chin – 250 | 350
Crotch – 300 | 400

Body scrub services

Flavored scrub (choice of strawberry or orange) – 800 | 1000
Signature scrub (sugar cane) – 900 | 1200

Packages

Chocolate chip (eyebrow, upper lip, underarm) – 500 | 650
Butter pecan (bikini, half leg, underarm, eyebrow) – 1100 | 1350
Strawberry fudge (bikini, full leg, underarm, eyebrow) – 1300 | 1450
Cherry vanilla (brazilian, half leg, underarm, eyebrow) – 1400 | 1500
Queen-cholic (brazilian, full leg, underarm, eyebrow) – 1600 | 1750

Caramel Scrubbin’ (special combo of wax+scrub)

Underarm – 350 | 450
Arm – 500 | 600
Chest – 450 | 550
Stomach – 450 | 550
Back – 500 | 600
Inguinal – 500 | 600
Half leg – 650 | 750
Full leg – 900 | 1000
Full body – 2800 | 3000

At these rates I can step up my kikay game a notch! Yay

Whipped Sugar Waxing and Scrub Salon
Operating hours:
Monday-Friday 11AM to 9PM
Saturday-Sunday 10AM to 10PM

Locations:
3F Ayala Fairview Terraces
Avida Southpark
2F Eight Forbes Town Center

Contours LaserFit Measuring Step

Contours LaserFit: Non-invasive fat-busting solution

Losing love handles and avoiding the muffin top effect can be difficult even for ladies within normal BMI. People are just different as far as body type and fat percentage is concerned. For instance, I have a pear shape that tend to put fat around my thighs and hips. Losing fat in my lower torso is my main goal, now that I have a gorgeous fit-and-flare dress to wear on my wedding day!

fit and flare wedding dress

Image from www.theweddingcommunity.com.

Feeling the pressure, I turn to science to boost my weight loss journey. Enter the Contours LaserFit program, which offers a safe though accelerated approach to weight loss: lifestyle and diet changes complemented by two machines proven to improve the figure.

Contours LaserFit Measuring Step

The Zerona Experience 

Zerona, a machine developed back in the 90s, is US FDA-approved to remove unwanted fat without surgery (i.e. liposuction). The laser has been found capable of liquefying fat within fat cells, causing the cells to release contents. What is removed from the cells is then naturally excreted by the body. With the fat cells smaller (and frailer) can eventually die out, leading to a smaller waistline, hips and thighs.

LaserFit

The Zerona machine manufactured by Erchonia Medical Inc.

Coming in for a 40-minute Zerona session promises a slimmer figure, as long as the follow-up session is done within 72 hours of the previous session. In my case, my work schedule only allowed me to come back after 3-4 days, using up the 6-session trial in about 17 days instead of the recommended 14. I tried to compensate by walking frequently, drinking more than the recommended daily amount of water (2 liters) and eating mostly fiber-rich foods (read: plants). The LaserFit program also highly recommends regular exercise, and due to my hectic schedule I was not able to commit to this.

The Vibratrim Sessions

Ideally, each Zerona session is followed up by a 10-minute, high-intensity workout and another 10-minute session on Vibratrim.

Contours Vibra Trim

Vibratrim is a vibrating machine you stand or sit on to encourage the release of the fat contained in the fat cells damaged by the Zerona machine. first time I tried Vibratrim I was obviously out of shape, having stopped my regular exercise routine back in February. So just three minutes in, I was already feeling dizzy from all the vibration.

Contours Workout Room 

The Verdict

After 6 sessions, I am happy to report that the LaserFit program actually yields results! At first, I was worried since the rainy season damaged the workout area at Contours during my trial. I was unable to do my workout and Vibratrim session once or twice.

Despite the rain uhm raining on my parade, I think the LaserFit program I took still led to decent results.
Post Workout Look

Just look at how I lost inches around my waist and even thighs in just two weeks! Those are safe numbers!

Zerona Patient Measurement 2 weeks

During the LaserFit program I realized that the Zerona procedure best serves those who might not be candidates for liposuction (like if they have diabetes). The results might not be as dramatic of course, but at least there is no down time and heavier set people can finally have a shapely figure, regardless of body type. The LaserFit program is what really makes Contours provide people with the contours they want.

Can’t wait for my wedding! Visit http://www.contours.com.ph/ for more details.

Owning a Boat Is A Lot More Affordable Than Many Think

Some people put the idea of owning a boat completely out of their mind. They feel like it is something that is just too expensive. However, when a person realistically looks at how much boat will cost and compare that to other entertainment they enjoy, they will quickly see that owning a boat is actually something that is not only affordable, but that can provide fun for the entire family.

Of course, a person is not going to want to simply just jump into the purchase of a boat. They need to consider the true expense of the boat, how often they will use the boat, and what kind of a boat would really fit their needs. When a person looks at the pros and cons of any purchase, they will be in the best position possible to make a decision that will not only benefit them now, but that will benefit them in the future.

One of the reasons why owning a boat is a lot more affordable than many people think is a because they already spend quite a bit of money on entertainment each month. A person can qualify for a loan to slowly pay off a boat and only have to spend a small amount of money each month. When they compare that amount to how much they spend on taking their family to the movies, going to an arcade, or engaging in other entertainment, they quickly see that owning a boat is comparable to what they are already spending on entertainment. However, when they own a boat, they are going to be able to enjoy a much more satisfying form of entertainment.

Just think of all of the things that adults and children learn when they have access to a boat. They learn how to sail, they learn how to buy boat parts and learn how to repair a boat, they learn how to fish, and much more. Owning a boat also allows a family to enjoy wholesome entertainment. They can get out on the weekends or at other times during the week and spend time with one another as well as friends who have been invited. They get fresh air, enjoy the sunshine, and get exercise when they swim in the water around the boat.

Owning a boat is a rewarding experience. It is also a lot more affordable than many people think.

Ethel Merioles Dennison Uy at Edsa Shangri-La

Ways to Keep Your Teeth Bright and Clean

Ethel Merioles Dennison Uy at Edsa Shangri-LaThe way your teeth look will have a large impact on the way you feel and the way that others treat you. When you have a bright, white smile, you feel confident and happy. Others view you as successful, friendly, and intelligent. Whether you like it or not, when you have a crooked, yellow smile, you are likely to feel bad about yourself and others will view you negatively as well. This is not mean that you have to spend thousands of dollars at the dentist in order to whiten your teeth. There are things you can do to whiten your teeth naturally at home.

1. Brush and floss regularly!

One of the most important parts of a good oral health care routine is brushing and flossing on a daily basis. This is going to put you in the best position to have a healthy, bright smile. Choose a quality toothbrush, a whitening toothpaste, and good dental floss. These are the first tools that you need to have a healthy smile.

2. Try whitening teeth

There are a variety of things that you may already have in your kitchen cupboards that can help you to naturally whiten your teeth. Many dentistry journals have mentioned that baking soda is great at getting rid of stains on the teeth. The best way for you to use baking soda on your teeth is to put a little bit of baking soda in water and allow it to dissolve. From there, you can use the paste you have made to brush your teeth. This can be used a couple of times of week in order to get rid of stains and to freshen your breath.

3. Watch your eating habits

Pay close attention to the foods you consume. Coffee, black tea, dark wine, and a variety of different foods can stain your teeth. It may be a good idea to eliminate these things from your diet. Another option is simply to rinse your mouth with water after consuming these items. You can use food to your benefit to clean your teeth and keep your smile healthy and bright. Eating raw celery, apples, and other crunchy vegetables can clean your teeth. Also, eating popcorn without butter is a great way to keep your teeth clean.

The Takeaway

Keeping your teeth clean and using things like baking soda and wisely choosing the foods you consume can go a long way in helping you to maintain a healthy smile. It’s also important to regularly schedule dental visits in order to catch dental problems early on.