tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83806299343535049062024-03-06T01:42:56.703+08:00beholisticallyinspiredMy holistic approach - to share, motivate, inspire, and to heal others...Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-8219466376941888412016-10-02T10:13:00.001+08:002016-10-02T10:13:08.436+08:00beholisticallyinspired:<a href="http://beholisticallyinspired.blogspot.com/2016/10/blog-post.html?spref=bl">beholisticallyinspired:</a>Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-2185622937219509212016-10-02T09:59:00.006+08:002016-10-02T10:01:43.781+08:00Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-14582978546682874422016-10-02T09:59:00.005+08:002016-10-02T09:59:33.421+08:00Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-29259864499411310712016-10-02T09:59:00.003+08:002016-10-02T10:01:39.772+08:00PURBECK 16 NORDIC WALKING HALF MARATHON - 17TH SEPT 2016Greetings from London.<br />
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The house is quiet again with six of the Nordic Walking UK Malaysia team members gone home.<br />
I am here seated in my garden room reminiscing of the Purbeck Marathon Challenge.<br />
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My Race Memories:<br />
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This was the first Nordic Walking Marathon and Purbeck 16 organised by NWUK in conjunction with the Purbeck Nordic Walking Festival 2016.<br />
I was excited about it and brought a team of seven members to the festival to participate in the half marathon. It was the race the nordic walkers have been waiting for!<br />
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I have never done a half marathon but in my mind a walking marathon should not be too difficult and I was told the course is so beautiful and stunning , you'll wish they were longer. Well, I was naive and did not expect the course to be tough.<br />
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The 16.5 miler definitely not a flat trail and a pretty tough course overall.<br />
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The half marathon took the walkers on a 16.5 miles ( more than half a marathon) adventure past the Heritage Jurassic coast with the sun gleaming on the blue waters, across open countryside, up and down rolling hills, climbing never ending ridges and down stretches of plains. The route was predominately off road course with several treacherous paths, very challenging indeed for a foreigner who has never walked in that kind of terrain. I have been cautioned that the trails were uneven, stony and dirt tracks, and some were strewn with cow and sheep's poo. "Ew, it was dreadful having to plant my poles into the poo.<br />
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Along the stunning Jurassic coastline.<br />
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Up and down the coastal paths.....<br />
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Stone walls criss crossing the hills and plains of Purbeck<br />
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Challenging but fun !<br />
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Many gates to climb over and go under at times.<br />
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Across meadows and plains....<br />
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Uneven clay tracks...... <br />
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Beautiful scenery but most walkers did not stop to take pictures. Many photos captured by Marshals, thanks to them.<br />
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Nice day for walking......<br />
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Across a wide expanse of farmlands I strode on with my nordic poles from one farmland to the other and had to figure out the way to open the farm gates which were quite tricky. Some of the gates were locked, so the only solution was to climb over ( gosh I felt like a little girl climbing gates and I have lost count the number of times I had to climb over the farm gates. I am good at it now and come to think of it , was quite fun) and there was one gate with barb wires and having to go through it.,phew... was pretty risky!<br />
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I remembered as soon as I arrived into Dorset three days prior to the marathon that this was going to be an extraordinary experience.....and it wasn't just because of the distance, Dorset is a county of outstanding natural beauty, a land of contrast and beautiful landscapes and scenery. It is a county in the middle of South coast of England on the English Channel coast. The terrain here is lowland in nature, albeit hilly in many parts. The Purbeck hills are a line of chalk hills. If you are not from Dorset, this half marathon will bring you past all of the best, most scenic areas of the Isle of Purbeck in a big 16.5 mile loop. My only regret was not stopping to capture some pictures but I'll make sure to do it when I return next year.<br />
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Green green grass of Purbeck ... <br />
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Rolling hills.......<br />
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Corfe Castle in the distance....<br />
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On the day of the race, I made my way to join the corral 45 minutes earlier to wait for a briefing. I looked around in awe at some of the other participants.<br />
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All waiting for the moment to start....<br />
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Warming up exercise before the start of the half marathon....<br />
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A marathon at this time of the year and at Dorset can pose a challenge if Mother Nature isn't in the mood to cooperate. Cold temperatures or a blazing weather can present a problem for many walkers, but it doesn't have to ruin my walking experience as I was prepared with a clothing combo that keeps me warm or cool and most importantly comfortable.<br />
The weather turned out to be superb and perfect for walking. It was partly cloudy and sunny without a drop of rain.<br />
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One for the album before the start....<br />
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Full of excitement and yes.... I was ready for the challenge.....<br />
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I've heard of stories about people being nervous at the beginning of their first marathon, but for some reason, I wasn't. It may have been because I thought I had enough training and felt confident that I was going to have a great walk or maybe it was the energy, the air at the start line or just me being in awe of walking my first half marathon and being determined to prove to myself that I could do it or maybe I was too naive to realise what it was really going to be like to nordic walk a half marathon.<br />
But what ever it was, the butterflies that I was expecting to feel in my stomach while waiting for the start just weren't there.<br />
All I felt was a feeling of to do whatever it would take to walk a challenge course all the way to the finish line mixed with excitement at the thought of NordicWalkingUK Malaysia reaching a new milestone!<br />
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It was chilly in the morning and I had to bundle up before the start. I had a windbreaker over my racing kit. I wore a long sleeve moisture wicking base layer ( my favourite Lululemon top) under a NWUK purple t-shirt, a pair of Mammut water resistant trousers over a pair of compression tights, and a lightweight UV hat. That kept me comfortable from start to finish. I noticed that many of the locals were only wearing a t-shirt and a pair of trousers and a few were only in shorts. A good rule of thumb is to wear layers and to dress as if it's warmer than it actually is outside because once you get moving you'll warm up quite a bit and will sweat. I knew I had to remove my jacket a few minutes before the start.<br />
I saw walkers with names of charities on their shirts, fidgeting with their GPS watches ( oh no, I overlooked to switch on my Garmin watch till an hour later) and talking to each other about their walks in general.<br />
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The half marathoners......<br />
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At 9 am the walk was flagged off. I remembered a few ladies ( including myself) letting out woohoos after stepping on the mat and the walk started.<br />
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The first few miles of the marathon were congested with walkers trying to overtake each other and to find a comfortable pace. It wasn't until mile 5 that things really start to open up. The walk took us to the Durlston Country Park which was a flat walk and then on tarmac road past the LightHouse until the route meets the coastal path of the Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage site on the English Channel coast. I enjoyed the most walking along this spectacular stretch of the stunning Jurassic coastline.<br />
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The LightHouse along the Jurassic Coastline....<br />
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Simply beautiful.......<br />
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Breathtaking scenery along the coast.......<br />
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We were walking high up on the cliff overlooking the blue waters of the English Channel.<br />
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The trail after the end of the coastal walk was a tough one. It was a long uphill continuous ascent. I had to shorten my stride rather than to slow down the rhythm to avoid cramps. I popped in electrolyte tablets to boost my energy and it worked. However, it was after the hard climb and over a gate that took me to a different direction at the junction. I was lost by turning to the right instead of left ( no direction marked and to rely on the map when you are rushing for time is no good) to Worth Matravers where I stopped for a drink at the aid station.<br />
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Uphill climb..... <br />
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I had to stay on top of my hydration needs in the days and hours before the challenge, as well as during the race itself. The 'Replace" sports drink was good and I made sure I adhered to the hydration plan during the race and drank at regular intervals to replace lost fluids. <br />
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One piece of advice for anyone doing the half marathon next year, it would be not to stress out about your pace too much in the beginning. Just go with the flow, walk at your pace and try to gain some ground when you can, but save your energy to push yourself harder later in the walk.<br />
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One of the best things about this marathon is that the course past through diverse and beautiful Purbeck landscapes of stunning sea views, towering sea cliffs, a thousand year old Corfe Castle and the rolling chalk hills of Purbeck Downs (Ridges) with footpaths that takes you through many farmlands and meadows. En-route you will see breathtaking woodland, down land and up on the ridges for panoramic views across the Purbeck plains.<br />
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Ruins of the Corfe Castle......<br />
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Overlooking the Purbeck plains and the English Channel Coast.<br />
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Panoramic view of the plains.....<br />
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I had a nordic walking app (GPS based) in my iphone to map out my walks. It recorded the details including distance, duration, pace, speed, calories burned, route travelled and voice prompting at intervals of distance covered. I found it useful.<br />
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Yes, I remembered crossing this railway track.....<br />
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Happy to have this one picture taken for my album. Thanks Laura.<br />
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Ample and clear signages will be an added advantage for marathoners.<br />
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By the 8th mile, I was thinking to myself this is officially the furthest I've ever walked during my training. That by itself gave me a sense of pride and accomplishment that helped carry me through the next several miles. Soreness started to creep in after the 10th miles. It helped to stop for a brief calf stretch to relieve the tight muscles.<br />
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The path was stony and a long up hill....<br />
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The sight of farm animals, a horse, sheep and cows brought a smile to my face because I knew I have approached a farmland.<br />
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I didn't care how tired my legs were.... All I wanted was to reach the finish line. Crossing the long stretch of ridges was like never ending. While walking I looked back several times to watch out for my team members trailing behind. I remembered having to make a conscious effort to push myself to keep walking. The pain in my toes started to set in and I was sweaty but seeing Gill Stewart (the team organiser from NWUK) and her assurance of only one more hill to climb gave me a nice boost. I had made it that far and this one last hill was the only thing that's between where I was and the finish line, so I pushed myself hard to get over it.<br />
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By the time, I saw the group of caravans, at that point I knew that I would be crossing the finish line very soon.<br />
My toes were hurting but I carried on walking.... I wasn't going to stop. When I arrived at Shore Road ( quite a long stretch) I felt elated and that gave me the final push.<br />
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Crossing the finish line tells me " that's a load off my shoulders". I felt great. The euphoric feeling of completing the half marathon was exciting and a relief.<br />
I had just done something that I never thought I would have been able to do it but I would have taken a shorter time if there were more signages. I felt proud of myself.<br />
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What an amazing experience!<br />
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This half marathon medal is solid and it captured the spirit<br />
of nordic walking.<br />
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<br />
I was presented with a challenge Purbeck 16 medal and a goodie bag.<br />
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Then I took some photos and waited for the safe return of the other team members.<br />
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After crossing the finish line....<br />
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No regrets, we did it! Will we do it again, hahaha let's see.....<br />
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Taking my team on a 12 hours flight to Dorset UK for the half marathon was quite a concern for me. Days prior the marathon challenge, I felt daunted by the prospect of my members' safety though it was pointed out that participants compete in the race under their own responsibility and they need to make sure they are medically fit and capable of walking the distance.<br />
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The weight is now off my shoulders and I am happy I do not have to worry about it. They crossed the finish line safe and have earned their medals.<br />
Yes, they became ' my stars, my marathoners' on that beautiful Saturday the 17th September 2016.<br />
Bravo, Malaysia Boleh!<br />
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I returned to my accomodation to have a shower and changed into some dry clothes before heading back to the hub for the BBQ dinner and post race get together. I was hungry and was craving for the pork burger.<br />
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Congratulations Mathew Gibbs, the winner of the First Nordic Walking Full Marathon 2016.<br />
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Feeling elated for being able to complete the walk.<br />
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Amazing nordic walkers... congratulations!<br />
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3,162.4 kcal was burned and a total of 44,379 steps taken.<br />
Wow! never have I accomplished such overwhelming results during my time spent in the gym.<br />
This is certainly record breaking! <br />
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I have so many good memories of this Purbeck Challenge that it's hard to list them all out.<br />
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The most obvious one was that it was my first nordic walking half marathon.<br />
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I walked and planted my poles hard into the ground than I ever had before for over 5 hours ( I applied the knowledge and technique learnt a day earlier from Marko Kantaneva, the Founder of Nordic Walking. Thanks Marko! ), experienced some of the greatest highs, pushed myself to keep moving forward through the toughest lows, saw many stunning views that Purbeck has to offer , and I knew the moment I crossed the finish line that for the rest of my life, nobody would ever be able to take away the fact that I am now a Nordic Walking Half Marathoner.<br />
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We had a class with Marko Kantaneva, the Founder of Nordic Walking, a day prior to the Marathon. The techniques learnt from the World class master was put into practise.<br />
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Full body warming up guided by Marko Kantaneva.<br />
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Even the months leading up to the marathon were memorable. I recalled reading up on how to prepare the team in all aspects and the dos and don'ts for doing a half marathon.<br />
Plans were made to commence the endurance training 10 to 14 weeks prior the challenge date.<br />
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During my training, the furthest that I had walked was 8 miles and that was the furthest I had walked.... but to train the right way for half marathon, you have to mimic at least once a 16 mile walk.<br />
Halfway through my training, I suffered a muscle strain on my right ankle due to stepping into a pothole covered with long grasses. As there wasn't much training possible for a few weeks, not only due to the ankle problem but I had to travel to visit my daughter overseas, I had moderate expectations of my performance in this half marathon.<br />
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Despite the exhaustion and soreness along the course there was no time to dwell about it more than there is time to celebrate the achievement. You just have to keep pushing forward through the dirt road and difficult climb and look forward to what's coming all the way until you cross the finish line. In life it works that way as well. You can tackle any obstacle that gets in your way regardless of whether anyone else thinks you can or not.<br />
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This Purbeck Half Marathon is the toughest challenge for me but it brings the greatest reward, a self satisfaction and personal achievement.<br />
I am proud to be a marathoner of the inaugural Nordic Walking Half Marathon and I did it on a tough terrain where no such course could possibly be found for training back home in Malaysia.<br />
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Awesome feeling!<br />
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Aside from the training and the challenge itself, I've noticed that if you put your heart and soul to do something, you can do it.<br />
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I did not finish the walk as fast as I would liked to but I still finished it and in the course of doing so, I learned a lot about myself, and what I am capable of withstanding both physically and mentally which will prepare me for tougher challenges.<br />
Having to push myself hard to make it through the tough course of walking non stop for 16.5 miles gave me the confidence to know that I can deal with things that I might not enjoy working on but they are the ones that I will learn the most from and they are the ones that will open up most opportunities for me.<br />
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Right now, the team's success in finishing the PURBECK 16 HALF MARATHON has indeed broken the record for Nordic Walking in Malaysia.<br />
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Congratulations to NWUKMsia for not only achieving a very important milestone but has won an accolade as well.<br />
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Well done team on your SUCCESS! Your participation and achievement to complete the 16.5 miles is truly commendable. FEEL PROUD TO SHOW YOUR MEDALS, YOU DESERVE IT!<br />
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Congratulations and jubilations!<br />
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Yay, Janet Ang and Sylvia Gan, well done ladies!<br />
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I bid you a safe return , do share your wonderful story and personal success with pride with your family, relatives and friends.<br />
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Thanks to NWUK for the three great days of Purbeck Nordic Walking festival and fun.<br />
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Great job and thanks for the hard work of the organisers and volunteers. Meet Mike Rollason(Founder of Exercise Anywhere), Gill Stewart ( Marketing & Business Development) and Martin Christie ( Master Trainer)<br />
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We had a fabulous weekend in beautiful Dorset.<br />
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Team Msia feels tired but very proud and happy!!<br />
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You went, you walked and you conquered ........... hip hip hooray Team NWUKMsia!<br />
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Like many people, I found the mix of camaraderie, excitement and finish line euphoria.<br />
Will I return for the challenge again in 2017?<br />
Well, once the blisters had healed and the memory of painful muscles had subsided, who knows I may sign up for the next marathon, LOL!<br />
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I'll always have fond memories of the Purbeck 16 Marathon. Well, I can say that I wouldn't have participated in a half marathon if it wasn't for nordic walking. Feeling awesome to be a Nordic Walker.<br />
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~ HOPE YOU'RE INSPIRED. HAVE A GO AT NORDIC WALKING. <br />
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SEE YOU ON THE PATH ~<br />
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<br />Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-77560043607684212162016-09-28T02:45:00.001+08:002016-09-28T02:45:25.091+08:00beholisticallyinspired: THE COLOUR OF HEALTH<a href="http://beholisticallyinspired.blogspot.com/2015/06/the-colour-of-health.html?spref=bl">beholisticallyinspired: THE COLOUR OF HEALTH</a>: Woke up this morning with the sunlight flooding through my window! There goes the sound ofPuan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-77610972302147382202016-09-28T02:43:00.001+08:002016-09-28T02:43:00.722+08:00beholisticallyinspired: THE COLOUR OF HEALTH<a href="http://beholisticallyinspired.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/the-colour-of-health.html#comment-form">beholisticallyinspired: THE COLOUR OF HEALTH</a>Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-36194298263238605742016-09-28T02:40:00.001+08:002016-09-28T02:40:56.911+08:00beholisticallyinspired: THE COLOUR OF HEALTH<a href="http://beholisticallyinspired.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/the-colour-of-health.html#comment-form">beholisticallyinspired: THE COLOUR OF HEALTH</a>Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-42120709682593465152015-06-04T21:26:00.001+08:002015-06-04T21:26:12.212+08:00THE COLOUR OF HEALTH<div style="text-align: center;">
Woke up this morning with the sunlight flooding through my window!</div>
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There goes the sound of 'ping ping', my Viber ringing from chat group ' NZ & Everything Under the sun'<br />
I chatted for a while, topic was 'how to compost'<br />
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Diligently rolled down my mat, it's my yoga time.....</div>
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A few repetitions of sun salutation, forward bend, Warrior poses, Cat's crawl followed by other poses but each time trying to recall what my yoga guru had drilled me all the time back home. I need to focus to remember. Oh yes, it's my warrior III, a strong and active pose that helps to strengthen the ankles and legs, tones the muscles of the abdomen and a stretch through the chest, shoulders and hamstrings. Balancing is the key!</div>
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Next change........ here comes my daily juicing!</div>
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The weather is really kind today, a warm and sunny day. I decided to go red with my juice, the order for the day!</div>
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Eating red veggies and fruits help. They are loaded with powerful healthy antioxidants.</div>
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Checked my produce in the fridge, delighted to see the lovely tomatoes, beetroot, carrots, strawberries, celery, red grapefruit, strawberries and a little piece of ginger. This is it, my recipe for the day.</div>
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What a lovely colour ! What shall I do with the pulp, they are still wet?</div>
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I know I can compost them by burying into the soil or pot, but no I am into urban gardening .</div>
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Space is the constraint!</div>
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More ideas came to me from friends, to make vegetable soup base or make muffins!</div>
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To throw them is without doubt a waste!</div>
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While juicing, I tried to create an artsy combination of colours...time to commence creating.</div>
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My creative juice is flowing......! Bring out the paints and brushes!</div>
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HAPPY JUICING AND NAMASTE!</div>
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Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-53335433899930076012015-06-02T17:25:00.000+08:002015-06-02T17:25:00.781+08:00MY PERFECT DAY OUT TO LONDON'S GORGEOUS HILLTOP HIDEAWAY<div style="text-align: center;">
Martin Christie from "Nordic Walking United Kingdom(NWUK) was previously our instructor who gave us a crash course on the techniques of nordic walking prior to our exhilarating walk in the Swiss Alps.<br />
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Martin is one of the top instructor trainer for NWUK<br />
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This time around I was invited by him to walk in Hampstead Heath, one of London's best loved green spaces.</div>
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That was a delightful surprise, thank you.<br />
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For a variety of terrain and environment different from my usual walking in the manicured gardens and pristine flower beds of Kensington and the other Royal Parks of London, I accepted the offer to explore the Hampstead Heath, one of the wildest of London's parks and to get a good overview of London from its highest point.<br />
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Woohoo... an excited me awaited to explore this magnificent open spaces of the Heath combined with some historical buildings, vibrant restaurants and cafe scene in the village. Don't forget there's the London's best crepes at La Crepe de Hampstead at the high street. Oh yes, remember to try the little family- run Japanese restaurant, "Jin Kichi", worth dropping by.</div>
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Between Hampstead Village and Highgate in North West London lies the Heath, a stunning acres of woodlands, playing fields, ponds and meadows. The beautiful expanse of green areas in the Heath pulls crowds from across London when the weather turns out to be good.<br />
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This is the Monday group nordic walkers, a mixed group for sociable walks to technique refreshes to workout walks.<br />
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None of them are beginners, all are like yours truly here, a confirmed enthusiast, having walked for at least 2 years.</div>
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The northern slopes of Parliament Hill not only offer a pleasing view but a fabulous terrain for walkers, the slopes can be challenging for some walkers.</div>
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There's the lush green canopy of trees below.</div>
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Here we see the foothills of Parliament Hill looking across one of the Highgate ponds on the slopes beyond.</div>
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For downhill walking, speed need to be reduced, it is natural to lean back a little, bend the knees and the poles are used more for stability than forward propulsion.</div>
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Walking uphill, leaning slightly forward and normally you could feel the extra thrust of the poles in front. </div>
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Martin, giving a few pointers, to maintain our walking pace as we walked uphill, to control our breathing and to take slow deep breaths.</div>
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Walkers weaved among the shaded woodlands.....</div>
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and the wind swept green meadows.</div>
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What an awesome park, truly a natural gym and a breath of fresh air.</div>
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The beech trees do look absolutely stunning in spring.</div>
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Along the edges of the Heath are a number of attractions which attempted to lure me away.</div>
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Felt like roaming longer in the wild and woody walks in the Heath. Will do that when I'm here next.</div>
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I like walking with this group of ladies, they moved at a relatively fast pace which resulted in a good workout of almost an hour of non stop propelling those poles.</div>
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Nordic walking gives so much more than just a normal brisk walk, you'll discover how it is far more than 'walking with poles'.</div>
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With the right technique, you'll be surprised how light it can make you feel and how you will walk faster and further than you ever thought without undue strain on your body despite working on most of your muscles.</div>
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The Heath is marvellous in spring, has lush green fields to run in, long grass to roll in</div>
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woods to hide in...</div>
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and fields strewn with small tiny flowers...</div>
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the place to get back to nature.</div>
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Walking on flatland one has to keep the same upright posture.</div>
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What haunts me most in Hampstead is the Heath, its open grassland, woodland, scrub and open water. Whenever the weather is good, the Heath attracts lots of Londoners to enjoy the park's unkempt charms.<br />
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Would it not be wonderful to do a bench meditation here?<br />
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Walking up to one of the highest point in London.<br />
As if in a dream, where the blue sky and green fields meet.<br />
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The famous spot on the Heath is the Parliament Hill where it commands a panoramic view, one of London's best lookout.<br />
The view takes in the skyline with the Thames River, St Paul's Cathedral, the Gherkin, the Shard all visible on a clear day.<br />
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To stretch before and after walk. There's the quad/ hamstring stretch, chest/upper stretch , back/arm stretch and lateral stretch.<br />
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Had a fantastic walk to boost my fitness, to enjoy the awesome outdoors and a great opportunity to socialise and be part of this class for my technique refreshes with Martin, a UK expert.<br />
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Met new friends....<br />
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Walking in a group makes you keep your pace up.<br />
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We walked to prove that exercise can be rewarding and fun.<br />
Look at all the happy faces!<br />
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HOPE YOU'RE INSPIRED. HAVE A GO AT NORDIC WALKING IN BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPES.<br />
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SEE YOU ON THE PATH<br />
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Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-7256655281261716962015-05-26T05:45:00.001+08:002015-05-28T04:21:19.618+08:00WALKING FOR WALKING<div style="text-align: center;">
It was a Bank Holiday last Monday in United Kingdom.</div>
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Around 7.30am I had the entire park practically for myself, enjoying the freshness in the air, feeling the gentle wind on my face and the dew in the fields.<br />
I love to nordic walk early morning in a cool atmosphere as the air is cleaner and it gives my lungs a rich source of fresh oxygen.</div>
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Made a few stops by the green fields for my breathing exercise.<br />
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The path to my sanctuary.......<br />
Walking in natural environments like in a park, garden or forest have a greater effect on health and well-being.</div>
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The Lungs of London</div>
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I was walking to meet my date but obviously my date was late.</div>
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Alas, there she was, still in a daze.</div>
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How could she mistakenly thought the distance from Carnaby Street to Kensington Gardens is a short distance?</div>
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Whew....she really had a long long walk to meet her date.<br />
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Here comes my date.....<br />
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Nordic walking involves not only muscles from your lower body but also from your arms, that is, your bicep, tricep, the pectorals and upper back in order to move the poles. It'll also lift off the weight from your knees.<br />
This nordic exercise is currently being promoted as a form of walking exercise that has greater benefits than regular walking.<br />
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It's spring, fresh grass all around, the warm sunlight,<br />
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the pretty small sweet blooms....<br />
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the chirpy bird.......<br />
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and the lovely daffodils against the tall willowy weeds<br />
make it a serene surrounding to walk to enjoy nature.<br />
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We were walking on grass most of the time.<br />
I personally like to gaze at green grass and green trees which is known to improve eyesight.<br />
The fresh smell of grass can be calming and energising.<br />
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With the waters and the ducks...<br />
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Just walking in the warmth of sunlight supplies vitamin D to our body.<br />
Sunlight is a great source of healing energies and provides vitality.<br />
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In this park, I do see many walkers and they walk for all sorts of reasons.<br />
Fitness walkers walk to stay in shape. Dog walkers walk to enjoy the company of a companionable dog(s). Office workers walk to work across the park and there are the sociable walkers walk for the pleasures of good talk.<br />
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Everyone walks at some stage of the day but I do hope a little effort is taken to turn your time into a health walk.<br />
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With the stunning landscape of the Italian Gardens...<br />
When you're with nature, never hesitate to stop to admire or take a shot or a video if anything beautiful catches your eye.<br />
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A beautiful view evokes pleasant feelings.......<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqd6qVYbaOsXCeLs_XcTUgHMvbZoWKNHhL21n2ipzjG9J24l5AmUNcmFsNaxg8Cw8m9SrpsM1kGKXqshLc0ALmb7sS-dO4HuOwxwJj7UmHg80AAE3wP48Am8neVlryuhX26s9PfpbAL-vc/s1600/IMG_0657.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqd6qVYbaOsXCeLs_XcTUgHMvbZoWKNHhL21n2ipzjG9J24l5AmUNcmFsNaxg8Cw8m9SrpsM1kGKXqshLc0ALmb7sS-dO4HuOwxwJj7UmHg80AAE3wP48Am8neVlryuhX26s9PfpbAL-vc/s400/IMG_0657.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Put your best foot forward, walk for better health by spending time in the green spaces, gardens, parks, forests and soon you'll notice the difference in your mind and body.</div>
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~ WALKING IS THE WORLD'S OLDEST EXERCISE AND TODAY'S MODERN MEDICINE.</div>
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By Johnny Wowk</div>
Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-31969107548012124272015-05-20T05:08:00.000+08:002015-05-20T05:08:08.235+08:00 A PEEK AT MY 3 DAYS JUICE FAST<div style="text-align: center;">
I am blogging this mainly to record the cleanse that I did and to share my beneficial fasting experience.<br />
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I embarked on a cold pressed juice cleanse due to excessive indulgence of everything over the past few months resulting in food poisoning, food allergy and I was also carrying some extra pounds.</div>
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Well, you must have heard of the cold pressed organic juicing which is all the rage now due to its many health benefits it provides our bodies. A cold pressed uses high pressure instead of heat to produce the juice.This helps to maintain the level of nutrients and enzymes which will speed up our metabolism, detoxify our body and gives energy boost.</div>
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Having jumped on the bandwagon for cold pressed juicing, I travelled to Singapore to look for the amazing Super Angel 8500 - stainless steel juicer ( thanks to a dear friend who had painstakingly sourced and recommended this superb juicer).</div>
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This is the Super Angel 8500 Juicer </div>
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The yield pressed from this juicer is comparatively higher.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdlo9X7XEe5qnl44MN5VtfaM3P7OpmQ7ALmLi1fUrk61mcDBT-u9R4HSwdqFCI52BoEv9Z0qjb_7fYxjEtTdKbtbFgJiNCuBfD9xGVV6kTfrr2YIvYggrMRyPFHi81vULOFFexhZR0XhmM/s1600/IMG_1069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdlo9X7XEe5qnl44MN5VtfaM3P7OpmQ7ALmLi1fUrk61mcDBT-u9R4HSwdqFCI52BoEv9Z0qjb_7fYxjEtTdKbtbFgJiNCuBfD9xGVV6kTfrr2YIvYggrMRyPFHi81vULOFFexhZR0XhmM/s400/IMG_1069.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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This juicer uses twin gears and it masticates practically every kind of produce such as veggies or fruits or nuts or seeds to a complete dry pulp, producing a comparatively higher yield and it retains all the important phytonutrients inside the juice. Take a look how dry the pulp is!</div>
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Cold pressed juicing are taking the juice market by storm lately and these juices are hitting store shelves faster than ever in London, New York, L.A and even back home in Kuala Lumpur.</div>
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In London I noticed there are many brands of cold pressed juices such as PRESS, PLENISH, CANYON, BOB'S COLD PRESS, JUICEMAN and others.</div>
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With the days getting brighter and longer, I decided that Spring is an ideal time for me to do a cleanse to lighten up, to reassess my personal nutrition goals and to kick start a healthier diet.</div>
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I knew a 3 day detox programme with PRESS, a reputable Company founded in L.A in 2013 in West Hollywood, producing cold pressed juices was the best way to give myself a complete rehaul and start from fresh again. It is during this 3 days period I will typically consume only liquids, juices from veggies and fruits and herbal teas, no solid food at all. I literally could not wait.</div>
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It was Monday 11th May my PRESS CLEANSE arrived delivered to my doorstep and I was feeling excited for the results.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3uyVw5kx6O24xmoT62_TZfRoxiB-n8kNVy7DrbK8axCPjfRRyfcIrNSIJVln9Nv8P-s01dACiA0aAC-r6FeDwBzfI_WSlghbLUkzm6-hK1BjEHInd6qMEYBJy58iNCS1jQjuxGMk7VQaW/s1600/IMG_1572.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3uyVw5kx6O24xmoT62_TZfRoxiB-n8kNVy7DrbK8axCPjfRRyfcIrNSIJVln9Nv8P-s01dACiA0aAC-r6FeDwBzfI_WSlghbLUkzm6-hK1BjEHInd6qMEYBJy58iNCS1jQjuxGMk7VQaW/s400/IMG_1572.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitbn3rYSPTw9VbWqcnV9bLjIa2hOLvyvOh61srR_uSL-wxOt7-yxFRi8hAxPzzE-p4PB_R3Dd2DaWvTkDkbVkeVJC-d3PVBePGhx2w60jjNBZCnOyxtZXK6aWiyYJAPUu1TjI1MpDutBpj/s1600/IMG_1579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitbn3rYSPTw9VbWqcnV9bLjIa2hOLvyvOh61srR_uSL-wxOt7-yxFRi8hAxPzzE-p4PB_R3Dd2DaWvTkDkbVkeVJC-d3PVBePGhx2w60jjNBZCnOyxtZXK6aWiyYJAPUu1TjI1MpDutBpj/s400/IMG_1579.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In the box were 24 bottles of a variety of vegetables and fruits juices for 3 days consumption.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZOEC0cD0HsDrP5_qiP2HJqguWfJw4d1zbFSyzMxfTOSeE7TN6GPEsHTai7Z2OlG5lr-OhP1RuPp8Vwjwj63-2wGs77EhltE12sVPuCKEZal_dbImcuH14va7sqAAUBE5jBlUUYK7fZ7VX/s1600/IMG_1573.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZOEC0cD0HsDrP5_qiP2HJqguWfJw4d1zbFSyzMxfTOSeE7TN6GPEsHTai7Z2OlG5lr-OhP1RuPp8Vwjwj63-2wGs77EhltE12sVPuCKEZal_dbImcuH14va7sqAAUBE5jBlUUYK7fZ7VX/s400/IMG_1573.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The bottles were labeled to consume accordingly.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfEscQUk-W2LhywszarGYlB7SlzWrMdMKO7hbM5j4_CqsFdExbnTSv6fdMCf0A8g2DBrtCmupPSdDeTlLYlUqujZS0_R0z4duJlpePbPjVEyXXkRv_bZQsXwNFLtzKp5E0RnByG1xkR2Os/s1600/IMG_1577.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfEscQUk-W2LhywszarGYlB7SlzWrMdMKO7hbM5j4_CqsFdExbnTSv6fdMCf0A8g2DBrtCmupPSdDeTlLYlUqujZS0_R0z4duJlpePbPjVEyXXkRv_bZQsXwNFLtzKp5E0RnByG1xkR2Os/s400/IMG_1577.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The juices in bottles of 500ml and 350ml do look beautiful stacked in my fridge and all colours of the juices are pleasing to the eye and I love them.</div>
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Prior to the cleanse, I was supposed to pretox ( a pre cleanse) by avoiding meat, carbs or sugar but Jing and Krys were out from school/Uni for the weekend and it means eating out for lunch/dinner. So my diet went out of the window. Nevertheless this made me feel the more determined to go thru my detox juice diet and to clean up my system.</div>
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The following pictures are the juices I consumed in sequence for 3 days.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAU9Wi7XQ4hlS9iZJB3Rt4NQomfLz5C62nsBD5uOaXvJgAOxv6eHcaeFz3gELWgpLMVF2MkCRPwBMWFHzp6dd2CeWFEgi8w4sq88PlpF1aMkyGuoZ4_zu_-eOi6i3wpQnAtTQPl299dSpy/s1600/IMG_1582.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAU9Wi7XQ4hlS9iZJB3Rt4NQomfLz5C62nsBD5uOaXvJgAOxv6eHcaeFz3gELWgpLMVF2MkCRPwBMWFHzp6dd2CeWFEgi8w4sq88PlpF1aMkyGuoZ4_zu_-eOi6i3wpQnAtTQPl299dSpy/s400/IMG_1582.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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Cleanse water</div>
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Ingredients:Filtered water, Chlorophyll, Mint</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjitzTL1B64YDm8g9EcmS2u0H4p9Sd2KEbR-XMUewtyKvWXTJ-RmuYeXO_z1PeX1eFslfvG26cwGpi10Mz5kN3K50-5F-SsT-3D3p-Wx5DGHqce1P36yy30F6dqgncrlA6zwNi7toBjkhnS/s1600/IMG_1583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjitzTL1B64YDm8g9EcmS2u0H4p9Sd2KEbR-XMUewtyKvWXTJ-RmuYeXO_z1PeX1eFslfvG26cwGpi10Mz5kN3K50-5F-SsT-3D3p-Wx5DGHqce1P36yy30F6dqgncrlA6zwNi7toBjkhnS/s400/IMG_1583.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Greenhouse 1</div>
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Ingredients: Cucumber, Apple, Celery, Kale, Spinach, Romaine, Lemon, Ginger</div>
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It is ideal to take at least one to two litres of mostly green vegetable juice over a day.</div>
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A touch of fruit can be added to sweeten the juice to ensure it is delicious.</div>
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Be cautious not to overdo fresh fruit juices as they will send your sugar level out of balance.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Yu_OEMRSSdTG5A0JjFtNZTGj7C8I6cDJ5ioGFetqQvPWVcmpAW4pDc491JVzrMaXpaYlWXwHEhHz8q3JJDHpRUq8YCOlOuttatxRtmVAb8-66JfpL_waXtSRrO4pIRtGHBN7Qx6BhW-p/s1600/IMG_1586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Yu_OEMRSSdTG5A0JjFtNZTGj7C8I6cDJ5ioGFetqQvPWVcmpAW4pDc491JVzrMaXpaYlWXwHEhHz8q3JJDHpRUq8YCOlOuttatxRtmVAb8-66JfpL_waXtSRrO4pIRtGHBN7Qx6BhW-p/s400/IMG_1586.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Orchard 2</div>
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Ingredients: Apple, Ginger, Lemon.</div>
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Use lemon and lime in everything is fine as they are brilliant alkalises and very low in sugar.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiq5IhBz6RN9dXKSAxbcCQEYUF3rS2v52m-IHyCdk3JscwGLX1z6HJ9af1HYNPuYiGFLjzzuJg14cId7k9UHzZanl6Pu-I9kSOxhHB8GQW0oYm6J6m3r90K_BmjXymy17odFZc9N7pvper/s1600/IMG_1587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiq5IhBz6RN9dXKSAxbcCQEYUF3rS2v52m-IHyCdk3JscwGLX1z6HJ9af1HYNPuYiGFLjzzuJg14cId7k9UHzZanl6Pu-I9kSOxhHB8GQW0oYm6J6m3r90K_BmjXymy17odFZc9N7pvper/s400/IMG_1587.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Greenhouse 3</div>
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Ingredients:Cucumber, celery,Kale, Spinach, Romaine, Lemon, Ginger</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEharf5e7nzPSOoHb_2u1yVTOWZWl1Vj_wMtvJMh5Nsy7tqEHK7anPzXnbG6M8weSdajFL1MgjgxN15g6PYIhve1wvvEzHYLbQPS4HOjWhx12sCQ9ENR26Ac2dQlGlO8cQf0DQeZGjgtHubX/s1600/IMG_1589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEharf5e7nzPSOoHb_2u1yVTOWZWl1Vj_wMtvJMh5Nsy7tqEHK7anPzXnbG6M8weSdajFL1MgjgxN15g6PYIhve1wvvEzHYLbQPS4HOjWhx12sCQ9ENR26Ac2dQlGlO8cQf0DQeZGjgtHubX/s400/IMG_1589.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Grove 2</div>
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Ingredients: Watermelon, Lime</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh68X4liTwsgic9ElGVQX1B20ilhGZLED3WebtksE8Vlh0DTxQP9xvbUy-5X7-kwf4K_AnuiHaXPnRZPm8ZhVOACVEZ9iq2KifMTGXtFSoIomRNUWy4p8-IQNAgIAJkzLHmxJbAuIIDKljl/s1600/IMG_1590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh68X4liTwsgic9ElGVQX1B20ilhGZLED3WebtksE8Vlh0DTxQP9xvbUy-5X7-kwf4K_AnuiHaXPnRZPm8ZhVOACVEZ9iq2KifMTGXtFSoIomRNUWy4p8-IQNAgIAJkzLHmxJbAuIIDKljl/s400/IMG_1590.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Vanilla Leche</div>
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Ingredients: Spring water, Almonds, Rice, Dates, Vanilla Bean, Sunflower Oil, Pink Himalayan Sea Salt</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWnAtTImFB07ts7mez4Vk6_0MgNjtfNgRxFkzx2_3BF1ZCGUDxpDy_w9FlghEGiaPRm07EJI_MxObeJ2upiPAjjlAcJj3TC_cRA8xi0QZ0hzKgQHTbj3lIhVv2hoXhEuAQYOKZmsmhEdIa/s1600/IMG_1593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWnAtTImFB07ts7mez4Vk6_0MgNjtfNgRxFkzx2_3BF1ZCGUDxpDy_w9FlghEGiaPRm07EJI_MxObeJ2upiPAjjlAcJj3TC_cRA8xi0QZ0hzKgQHTbj3lIhVv2hoXhEuAQYOKZmsmhEdIa/s400/IMG_1593.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Greenhouse 2</div>
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Ingredients: Cucumber,Celery,Kale,Spinach,Romaine</div>
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Cleanse Water</div>
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Ingredients: Filtered Water, Aloe Vera, Lemon</div>
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For 3 days consecutively I was to drink 8 bottles of the above juices per day in the same sequence and the total intake is 950 cal/day.</div>
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I actually had to plan out the time schedule, every 2 hours a bottle of juice.</div>
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Keeping to my schedule is important otherwise I have to pack in several bottles within a few hours. This is where setting the alarm on my mobile is helpful.</div>
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(Advice: Stick to schedule)</div>
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DAY 1</div>
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I contentedly drank my 1st bottle of juice followed by the others every 2 hourly. </div>
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Midway through as forewarned, I suffered a slight headache and felt cold (side effect of not having food). I needed the toilet many times and had bowel movements. For the fast to leave me cleaner and feeling better, I have to ensure that toxic matter actually leaves my body and the bowel is playing the biggest role in dumping that old toxic waste out! </div>
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The ordeal was fine for me when I think of the consolation, that toxins and unwanted waste will be flushed out.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHvC9IMAbMApRLpzsg7aUl3v4x3ULTLZlbODgsmcdDsEKunmnJ0trvlPsObz85yd5_ZscZPIjsXWhixYnggVNCzuquisOKQmbvlp7Rpkn24WkpXsb3cZryz-k8XkqlTG_Q121lyA4CFNgP/s1600/IMG_1754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHvC9IMAbMApRLpzsg7aUl3v4x3ULTLZlbODgsmcdDsEKunmnJ0trvlPsObz85yd5_ZscZPIjsXWhixYnggVNCzuquisOKQmbvlp7Rpkn24WkpXsb3cZryz-k8XkqlTG_Q121lyA4CFNgP/s400/IMG_1754.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The whole day I was full with liquids and practically no hunger pangs at all. Luckily I ended day 1 on a high with my 3rd last bottle of a yummy Vanilla Leche. Prior bedtime I had my last bottle of cleansing water. Bring on Day 2.</div>
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DAY 2</div>
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Woke up fresh, no dreams of food. I'm surprised to find not much starving but realised had a mouth ulcer, a small one. I supposed it must be the toxins that needed to be eliminated or due to excessive intake of fructose. Whatever it is, that's what cleansing is all about.</div>
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Had my 1st bottle of juice while reading up on organic gardening of veggies and herbs. Why my sudden interest in organic? To embrace change and mind reset perhaps?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNgtq7tvBP4aVHb8vvCgAgDGpbDG0kaAEE47qQHDU-iVSSdA6ZK1SJXUBs8wa-a_kgXH33Xh1YenzAodsmwhAHittINpzxX4_ze-44BMmHEuaqKl-BX3PskvywTtlguKF8Ee3kmqrsUq7W/s1600/IMG_1760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNgtq7tvBP4aVHb8vvCgAgDGpbDG0kaAEE47qQHDU-iVSSdA6ZK1SJXUBs8wa-a_kgXH33Xh1YenzAodsmwhAHittINpzxX4_ze-44BMmHEuaqKl-BX3PskvywTtlguKF8Ee3kmqrsUq7W/s400/IMG_1760.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I decided to to walk out to the garden for some fresh air, sipping a cup of lemon ginger tea. Towards late afternoon I was feeling hungry and I do think the 2nd day is worst in terms of cravings. Frankly I find myself snooping around the kitchen staring at the cookie jars. However, knowing I was already mid way thru my detox programme kept me from cheating. I still have bowel movements, crazy huh? This is likely old toxic waste that needs to be discharged.</div>
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It is also common for the 1st and 2nd day to have white coated tongue. It went away on the 3rd day and I think it must be one of the detox symptoms and side effects.</div>
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DAY 3</div>
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Woke up easier than usual, felt good with flat tummy. It's the FINAL day!!</div>
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I felt so great so light and energetic. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJOn2bOtSiM7kqTrQQWQd4JwNdSTf828a9tH2K3XdsdyqoEK-Vdx-XTIs5IKmQFZ5llA6r3ifsy-z65g83bGcOoCW5KCGN1D2My510J_kswJ4_Qybm6mHStVL-sP4oUkI6iD1eOm2cW5IW/s1600/IMG_1798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJOn2bOtSiM7kqTrQQWQd4JwNdSTf828a9tH2K3XdsdyqoEK-Vdx-XTIs5IKmQFZ5llA6r3ifsy-z65g83bGcOoCW5KCGN1D2My510J_kswJ4_Qybm6mHStVL-sP4oUkI6iD1eOm2cW5IW/s400/IMG_1798.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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Once I have opened each bottle of juice I will pour them into the Swell bottle that can keep the juice cold for 24 hours.</div>
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Diligently I had my juices, bottle after bottle. I did however find my stomach rumbling rather loud but I calmed the 'music' with my next juice.</div>
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Towards late afternoon, I went for a walk which was a good enhancement to the detoxification process. I ended up buying oats, bread and avocados for next day breakfast. To my surprise, I did not crave the food on the shelves at Little Waitrose.</div>
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RESULTS</div>
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Well after 3 days, I felt really good and there I stood on the scale with a lost of 3kg.</div>
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But that was not my goal. I desired to kick start my way to a healthier attitude from now on.</div>
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What strikes me the most is how my cravings disappear after the 3rd day and rather waking up on 4th day for a big breakfast I found myself completely aware of my body and what I eat. </div>
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I had veg juice and a bowl of oats sprinkled with cranberries, almonds, walnuts and chia seeds for breakfast instead.</div>
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After doing a juice cleanse, I'm motivated to eat healthier. Cleansing is like meditation. It makes me stop, focus and think about what I put into my body.</div>
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I realised how important it is to take care of my body and how different it makes me feel inside and out. I feel my body has reset and thus I've plans to have healthy meals to follow up. My juice cleansing has certainly helped and I would call this a success!</div>
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On day 4 I rushed out to purchase a cold press juicer from Selfridges. Nothing beats own home juicing of the organic veggies and fruits bought from the farmers' market.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ10SvgOpimhVAtSPVKbT4awOfJj_ChxS88165ne88bUDf5eknxZhKdLiDDNU_LeKY3EnQ_VsFSwg-luwI47U06So5zbJju5SzAtrqft_7qXIM6X6jptYWEoZyupmzqqbFHitdSxhQcbwY/s1600/IMG_1797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ10SvgOpimhVAtSPVKbT4awOfJj_ChxS88165ne88bUDf5eknxZhKdLiDDNU_LeKY3EnQ_VsFSwg-luwI47U06So5zbJju5SzAtrqft_7qXIM6X6jptYWEoZyupmzqqbFHitdSxhQcbwY/s400/IMG_1797.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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This juicer, Kuvings, operates with one gear.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZMuhyphenhypheny2jj8MX6lSa7vw50W8VR2H7iJ5BEGjDgxyyDxjmEV8NVLhM6LLzWYsv12xOCEg79BXe9Yesvdxr9rav514VkZbEeqVw-XQU8p71lEus7d2rPLqPcYwvJ4DDRUOFuMhHlHQR97ENT/s1600/IMG_1792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZMuhyphenhypheny2jj8MX6lSa7vw50W8VR2H7iJ5BEGjDgxyyDxjmEV8NVLhM6LLzWYsv12xOCEg79BXe9Yesvdxr9rav514VkZbEeqVw-XQU8p71lEus7d2rPLqPcYwvJ4DDRUOFuMhHlHQR97ENT/s400/IMG_1792.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Never have I seen purple kale and this came from the farmer's market.</div>
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If you have not tried kale, you must. This super green is packed with lots of nutrition that puts it high on the list of the world's healthiest foods. In KL I bought them organic, only the green curly ones, imported from Australia.</div>
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I do hope with the kale seeds that I will be bringing home, can be grown in our climate.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtiLd8r5ii69X0xe_qsoSbN7bf4bp_kTc1o6_pH6Cyoqe79iRcvCH7M2Pol0Elz67l7SjWNDe2XZZ36iVZ-8z9bt_bZsbucbFoHe7BAYlE2sC3pIY14GG6w0coQ_00gxUW5qynNnrvom0n/s1600/IMG_1794.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtiLd8r5ii69X0xe_qsoSbN7bf4bp_kTc1o6_pH6Cyoqe79iRcvCH7M2Pol0Elz67l7SjWNDe2XZZ36iVZ-8z9bt_bZsbucbFoHe7BAYlE2sC3pIY14GG6w0coQ_00gxUW5qynNnrvom0n/s400/IMG_1794.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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My own concoction of green juice comprising of kale, spinach, cucumber, apple, lemon, celery & ginger.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1RMozdavBwd2Fxumv5fgzjbL75oV4YGeqIA3YSJqFJmdao510N0NgXR-_8s3Xw6rlRJ-Tw0a1G2MCmBKgoJE6ncrTFKT62MNFRMc42QMpXRxWtikQvXok-yLFkWfyJLhCHLLKc_pztjWb/s1600/IMG_1796.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1RMozdavBwd2Fxumv5fgzjbL75oV4YGeqIA3YSJqFJmdao510N0NgXR-_8s3Xw6rlRJ-Tw0a1G2MCmBKgoJE6ncrTFKT62MNFRMc42QMpXRxWtikQvXok-yLFkWfyJLhCHLLKc_pztjWb/s400/IMG_1796.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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The juice is foamy due to the lemon as it is soft.</div>
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Just sieve to remove the foam.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIw7V5eygJrrwQGkSDLPDHInRDoYK9qEcOuyM4ZKtZ7UfxnMqxHg-_4uAGsWC6bvAr1KApZSMV2PdQA9v5fNJ2sQzHizKGZG3gNr3V66q4XJhIQQaXerun0YET2Cjh9lZjn_QwGldXR67n/s1600/IMG_1799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIw7V5eygJrrwQGkSDLPDHInRDoYK9qEcOuyM4ZKtZ7UfxnMqxHg-_4uAGsWC6bvAr1KApZSMV2PdQA9v5fNJ2sQzHizKGZG3gNr3V66q4XJhIQQaXerun0YET2Cjh9lZjn_QwGldXR67n/s400/IMG_1799.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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This pulp is not completely dry compared to the pulp from the Super Angel stainless steel juicer.</div>
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Juice cleansing is fabulous and a great healing tool. They were amazing for my mind and body. I felt like a different person at the end of the cleanse. It may seem rather intimidating and scary ( that was how I felt prior cleansing) to think about having no solid food for 3 days in a stretch. It is actually normal but I won't be doing it so often. I can still use the concept of juice fasting by including in my daily life:</div>
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fast for one day or half a day or juicing into my daily routine along with other healthy meals. </div>
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I will make the juice at home or pick up a cold pressed juice a couple of times in a week. It makes me feel amazing and I do like the taste.</div>
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Green juice is my morning coffee now. I will live with healthy fresh juice in limited amounts to energise and nourish throughout the day but I will still continue with my smoothie intake which is full of goodness and fibre.</div>
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Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-74000635760258621212014-08-27T18:50:00.003+08:002016-06-12T17:29:37.570+08:00AN EXHILARATING NORDIC WALK IN THE SWISS ALPS <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOxjlZ54W52miJzFSwvBLZL3juDRAEJ5bt0bCsfmk1JFoXRh82Q6d19uqLVd1s7s_A3BkY1MU4H0xkyZnjZWg11xud02tK3p13MyhGfBPceX45OxUUmWvmrG0THCQ3g6z82ZAY1Wf6Go5j/s1600/IMG_0477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOxjlZ54W52miJzFSwvBLZL3juDRAEJ5bt0bCsfmk1JFoXRh82Q6d19uqLVd1s7s_A3BkY1MU4H0xkyZnjZWg11xud02tK3p13MyhGfBPceX45OxUUmWvmrG0THCQ3g6z82ZAY1Wf6Go5j/s1600/IMG_0477.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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I reminisce one morning receiving a piece of news that my group of my friends intend to nordic walk in the Swiss Alps if we so desired to fulfil one of our immediate dreams.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKB_3ITpmsKNvovcbGpr0lKFVPNz9PQ-pv-CNgNwmhnijI4syDDX8OBbBX8eTcreRyrkzbGGXNXkOT8us62PFH4dXYByfKs3Vd61hQ2poOx36Km3CBXT3oHTCkcfeigAUo7FQZkO4ol4S/s1600/IMG_0229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKB_3ITpmsKNvovcbGpr0lKFVPNz9PQ-pv-CNgNwmhnijI4syDDX8OBbBX8eTcreRyrkzbGGXNXkOT8us62PFH4dXYByfKs3Vd61hQ2poOx36Km3CBXT3oHTCkcfeigAUo7FQZkO4ol4S/s1600/IMG_0229.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Today, it's close to a year since we nordic walked in the Swiss Alps in the Bernese Oberland covering several beautiful places like Grindelwald, Wengen, First, Lauterbrunnen, Jungfraujoch, Schilthorn, Murren and Interlaken.</div>
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My buddies and I had a fantastic and awesome time in the spectacular Swiss mountains in early autumn Sept 2013. What an exciting and memorable nordic walking holiday we have had. Words cannot describe our exhilarating experience.</div>
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I am glad when all this fun and adventure was behind us, I could reminisce about it and maybe revel in all the good times I had had with my buddies, an out-of-world experience nordic walking amidst glacial fields and visited Jungfraujoch - Top of Europe.<br />
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Had an early morning walk at the Kensington gardens a day before we flew to Zurich.<br />
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With a pair of good and suitable shoes, we could walked on any terrain.<br />
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Walked the 'golden fields' at Kensington Gardens with Martin Christie, the Chief instructor from NWUK who gave us a fast track course.</div>
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At Interlaken main square and on a clear day, the majestic Jungfrau would be one of the most distinctive sights of the Swiss Alps.</div>
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Interlaken, a pretty chic city but the main attractions are the Alpine mountain villages.<br />
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A boat ride on Lake Brienz with lovely panoramic view of lakes and mountains and the idyllic little town of Brienz was a sight to behold.</div>
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The beauty of this area is magical, the exquisitely turquoise waters, the surrounding mountains, forested hills, craggy cliffs and waterfalls were simply breathtaking. I stood in awe of the stunning scenes all around.</div>
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Awe-inspiring scenery!</div>
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At the Ballenberg Open-Air Museum in Brienz.</div>
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A visit into days gone by. An original century-old Swiss house.</div>
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The open air museum is extensive and took us 4 - 5 hours to walk around the paths and learned how people used to live and work in earlier times.</div>
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Happy moments</div>
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Stopped for a breather after the extensive walk .</div>
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The little mountain villages of Grindelwald, Wengen, Murren are all very scenic. In a small area, you'll find a very diversified landscape with lakes, snow capped mountains, rolling green hills, cogwheel trains, hiking trails and much much more.</div>
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Many places can be visited easily. There are trains, cable cars, gondolas and cogwheel trains ready to take you up in the Alpine scenery.</div>
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Exploring the mountain villages on foot is a must, we had the advantage of our nordic poles and walked the many trails, moderate and easy ones.</div>
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The walk to Lake Bachalpsee at Grindelwald First is beautiful and certainly a worthwhile hike though weather was rather chilly. A well maintained path lead us through lush green Alpine meadows and cowbells ringing were heard somewhere on the green pastures.</div>
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At the start of the walk a short but considerable climb must be tackled. Generally moderate trails to Lake Bachalpsee.</div>
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I have a liking for small mountain lakes. Due to foggy weather the view of the valley on the opposite side was only a blanket of fog.</div>
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Weather was not that kind to us, could not enjoy the stunning epic panorama .</div>
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These nordic poles took me to far flung exotic places. I travelled with them even on a cruise boat where I had the opportunity to nordic walk on water, 360 degrees on the wraparound teak promenade deck. These poles are important to me ever since I learnt nordic walking.</div>
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This is designation Lake Bachalpsee, it offered what our heart desired, a sense of fulfillment.</div>
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At Jungfraujoch - Top Of Europe</div>
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Having a great time at Jungfrau. Enjoyed the awe-inspiring mountain panorama with white & puffy clouds against blue skies.</div>
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The walking trail from Grutschalp to Winteregg is made to take one past stunning sceneries, don't miss it! It took us up into the hills with breathtaking views.</div>
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We were the first four nordic walkers from Malaysia to hike across in this spectacular region of the Bernese Oberland Switzerland.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPFXd-QAbq-jIHwOfiDhXpkR9DtBQZZZESVMjQSUXxNs0hNiUyjiVuHpb8Ly9czjvGRJVqZEMrjifGrHAgU15e5zpLOYnHTPnPKf1iWMa4TqEXHNhuOQcFlJJg8hpmN0ZTgItPiHdzEL5M/s1600/IMG_0310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPFXd-QAbq-jIHwOfiDhXpkR9DtBQZZZESVMjQSUXxNs0hNiUyjiVuHpb8Ly9czjvGRJVqZEMrjifGrHAgU15e5zpLOYnHTPnPKf1iWMa4TqEXHNhuOQcFlJJg8hpmN0ZTgItPiHdzEL5M/s1600/IMG_0310.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Every direction offered a picturesque scene. Could not helped snapping pictures and more pictures .</div>
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We had such a wonderful trip so many wonderful memories to share.</div>
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You'd have to experience it to understand how amazing it was to walk this region of the Alpine Alps.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8sNxj8CZYbz-jypI4NraKMvO6nh0VivWVryIu715UdHSqPdtcSyk9PVqVEvVO0R5VNg3K7j3zanuJgE-OmBuixG5ysc657rjJyOtpQRql96tRfCAcj3HTlG8CFVGmTDE9_FpfxGnJkBO6/s1600/IMG_6912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8sNxj8CZYbz-jypI4NraKMvO6nh0VivWVryIu715UdHSqPdtcSyk9PVqVEvVO0R5VNg3K7j3zanuJgE-OmBuixG5ysc657rjJyOtpQRql96tRfCAcj3HTlG8CFVGmTDE9_FpfxGnJkBO6/s1600/IMG_6912.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Nice to have a chat with the simple village folks.</div>
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Explored Murren to admire the old traditional wooden chalets beautifully decorated with flowers, a small street but extremely picturesque.</div>
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At the summit of Piz Gloria, Schilthorn, Switzerland. </div>
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Action please, cut!! </div>
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Many scenes were filmed at Piz Gloria for the 1969 James Bond 007 film, ' On Her Majesty's Secret Service'.</div>
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Lauterbrunnen is a must visit, an incredibly beautiful mountain village.</div>
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Lauterbrunnen is utterly stunning, a tiny unspoilt village nestled between the towering walls of a </div>
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I felt overwhelmed by the snowcapped mountain, the trees, the pastures and the serenity of this valley.</div>
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At Gletscherschlucht to visit the glacier gorge.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNLbmwQL7iv3s2oZTN7QqOJ70wZyVuVdRuzUomyEklaoGq0oipBqYMkQMIMjyX8J6N7_1yMbLHxkzq8JKMeTHNaPDVTPxGfH09thLLcITla8YLlmZ4YV7B7TnuS2GdVahs-kh47lF1Lu36/s1600/IMG_0359.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNLbmwQL7iv3s2oZTN7QqOJ70wZyVuVdRuzUomyEklaoGq0oipBqYMkQMIMjyX8J6N7_1yMbLHxkzq8JKMeTHNaPDVTPxGfH09thLLcITla8YLlmZ4YV7B7TnuS2GdVahs-kh47lF1Lu36/s1600/IMG_0359.jpg" width="425" /></a></div>
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This gorge with meltwater tumbling towards the valley.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJONrZS_5z6mBeSRkjqdOrbjkq6-eH-gOiRUgcGT6P3x022NFXKrITpRP0pBuyXG1r1drVJacHeJgjvJWxgjnf2ECNhmWjXmTcj23rGmt1ssRds5epQZGJZ3qpAkZHLyd1miPLfqBS7nTb/s1600/IMG_6721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJONrZS_5z6mBeSRkjqdOrbjkq6-eH-gOiRUgcGT6P3x022NFXKrITpRP0pBuyXG1r1drVJacHeJgjvJWxgjnf2ECNhmWjXmTcj23rGmt1ssRds5epQZGJZ3qpAkZHLyd1miPLfqBS7nTb/s1600/IMG_6721.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Such a tranquil location to enjoy the great outdoors. Walked along side a river</div>
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to Grund railway station.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGh-2nftDWi9ysDX0vJy4x558gGxJ6Mevnjj0ds3XhSDA5nltfRSVOeD6n2aWQvlSvc-hRTg1YnFtlLt3Bd2lECRZaPTrI5BtBVxmXnur36EfydpHhsd3SA1hcVDpmgc0vjVBQl4pdpnzx/s1600/IMG_6695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGh-2nftDWi9ysDX0vJy4x558gGxJ6Mevnjj0ds3XhSDA5nltfRSVOeD6n2aWQvlSvc-hRTg1YnFtlLt3Bd2lECRZaPTrI5BtBVxmXnur36EfydpHhsd3SA1hcVDpmgc0vjVBQl4pdpnzx/s1600/IMG_6695.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A perfect place to walk without a single traffic. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgprPEOBWAwb3hxAywZuS2oaKT-z_MrfItvWHG2HNYNqXiRFXvRQszlPv_ZsnKpOmdMIdqYbkUfyaqZGdMnU6LzrYzvyFqcaV7tUDD1PxuPd6F7IW0mwdJdPG3Qo5vriiqObhVrm29WnP7/s1600/IMG_0253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgprPEOBWAwb3hxAywZuS2oaKT-z_MrfItvWHG2HNYNqXiRFXvRQszlPv_ZsnKpOmdMIdqYbkUfyaqZGdMnU6LzrYzvyFqcaV7tUDD1PxuPd6F7IW0mwdJdPG3Qo5vriiqObhVrm29WnP7/s1600/IMG_0253.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The destination of this trip was not simply the only attraction because most of the fun was provided by the trip itself, that was done by means of nordic walking, a boat ride, bus ride and a little steam train that climbed the mountains.</div>
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Jumped for joy..... A little playful aren't we?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpP2DJh0gnN-p3ntvYXznBYD8Goh9q89D5jXa5526g3OP4CpDfj-YpH53irKJ1krPchI7X0EQq-k5aC2VAAXm-GYObktcqQg6dd4c-hH0NjKBQ1Tx5N6dqMfaI1ZfDabXCg4dvaC2BWSbG/s1600/IMG_5999.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpP2DJh0gnN-p3ntvYXznBYD8Goh9q89D5jXa5526g3OP4CpDfj-YpH53irKJ1krPchI7X0EQq-k5aC2VAAXm-GYObktcqQg6dd4c-hH0NjKBQ1Tx5N6dqMfaI1ZfDabXCg4dvaC2BWSbG/s1600/IMG_5999.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Facing challenge - In meeting this challenge, we became our own witnesses to our ability to go where we haven't gone before, did what we've never done before. It was strictly our determination that we nordic walked for the first time in the Alpine Swiss Alps.</div>
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Nordic walking is a unique form of exercise in that it provides benefits for everyone. It is suitable, effective and enjoyable. It can be done anywhere. It's portable and the poles can be brought along on holiday or even used as a way to travel.</div>
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Our adventure walk in the Swiss Alps was a 'green activity', we walked while being exposed to or connecting with nature. This has a very powerful effect. To be in touch with nature makes us feel more relaxed and 'alive'.</div>
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~ LET'S NORDIC WALK FOR HEART, TOTAL HEALTH AND REAL HAPPINESS. ~</div>
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Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-83778250797248984442011-03-10T04:48:00.006+08:002011-03-10T08:08:15.388+08:00MY HEALING CAMELLIAS I was recently reminded of how flowers can heal mind, body and soul. Flowers not only enhance the beauty of women but also cure ailments. Did you know what is 'Flower therapy?'<br />
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White Camellia Purity from my garden<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSDRzA2WbrUOQfB0mn60MRIvmYpnxZEjkrnEzEGwR6PvtMke1vVf_U50wAb2q11wpS1X7bss-6JZ-t8HVjW_1An1nuY3fKiZkzqHXtnHkpWVauPX_yrxZdtaO4-OY2Qjah7BwxbCPzhFPk/s1600/L1050257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSDRzA2WbrUOQfB0mn60MRIvmYpnxZEjkrnEzEGwR6PvtMke1vVf_U50wAb2q11wpS1X7bss-6JZ-t8HVjW_1An1nuY3fKiZkzqHXtnHkpWVauPX_yrxZdtaO4-OY2Qjah7BwxbCPzhFPk/s640/L1050257.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Flower therapy is a new idea which is getting as important as physical therapy due to the energy flowers give and the vitamin D the sun provides. Vitamin D is essential for our body so that calcium can be absorbed into the bones. Flower therapy here plays a vital role in gaining Vitamin D. This in turn will help bone and muscle growth. It is also the cheapest and simplest way to improve a person's emotion, anxiety, stress, memory and rejuvenates & revitalizes one's health.<br />
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How to go about? Easy....... just the act of walking around flowers, sparks the memory, sparks the brain, smell, thoughts, makes a person who forgets remember everything after an afternoon in the garden expose to the sun, being outside getting vitamin D.<br />
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Flower therapy is so successful not only due to sense, energy and colour, flowers give you but just being out in the sun is the best thing you can do for your body.<br />
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Back home in Kuala Lumpur, I used to walk around my orchid garden in the morning before my yoga lessons, smelling the beautiful blooms for the energy they give. I recalled walking around my garden, the feeling that I got when I was around my orchids and other flowers. They were so beautiful, the sense, the fragrances and the colour made me happy.<br />
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Over here in London as the weather is getting warmer and sunny, I grabbed the opportunity to do flower therapy by being out in my garden patio with my gorgeous blooms of pink and white camellias.<br />
With my rotator cuff repair, I know it is not wise to be indoor all the time working only with my physiotherapist. I cannot get healthy half as quickly as I am out in the garden working with my flowers - my lovely camellias which are now in bloom. Just the act of weeding, digging and cutting, simply any gardening work is certainly healthy.<br />
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Having said about flower therapy, I am also excited and wish to spread my enthusiasm for cultivation of Camellias via my photography of the beautiful blooms. There are many varieties of camellias, Autumn Camellias as well as Spring Camellias. I have 4 shrubs of camellias, 2 whites and two in bright warm pink. I have been looking forward much to discovering they starting to flower so well this time around. So pleased to share my Camellias, have a look.................<br />
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Pink Camellia<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSmKRVYwfIN-hXvQxR0zbgZMfMN0hZ5rBhgoCLD4B6IOBYCzlcm9ri4oa8wID6seKmty2s4TtgkY9-iUTvb2qZhJ_QiUXmgJ537aqtGb7hZfyYwOsL98COn8uzdmnD_zpImjfjcfistsGP/s1600/L1050252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSmKRVYwfIN-hXvQxR0zbgZMfMN0hZ5rBhgoCLD4B6IOBYCzlcm9ri4oa8wID6seKmty2s4TtgkY9-iUTvb2qZhJ_QiUXmgJ537aqtGb7hZfyYwOsL98COn8uzdmnD_zpImjfjcfistsGP/s640/L1050252.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Camellia is a native flower of China, Korea, Taiwan and Japan. This is the most beautiful pink camellia I have ever had the pleasure to meet. This particular blossom looks like peony. I look forward so much to discovering it starting to flower.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFwUQjmbotQ1nLEihRFqVN68tGThrH7ruDBFSaIJb34858gL8JGiq0829oW09zC0jrYktnsBIHpKS5SiURr9cAx3xmeIjwWb_eSdfh12m9d2yGRE2IjRPe0HodRX1ku5b0PLenSXzWKY6/s1600/L1050251.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFwUQjmbotQ1nLEihRFqVN68tGThrH7ruDBFSaIJb34858gL8JGiq0829oW09zC0jrYktnsBIHpKS5SiURr9cAx3xmeIjwWb_eSdfh12m9d2yGRE2IjRPe0HodRX1ku5b0PLenSXzWKY6/s640/L1050251.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46aBwdLNkv7bNmPfeIZkBE_emn5cUmpGAiQpnLxIga5VKWhHr_sox0RGG5myYUH0ObEE-KelWIdMnCLhUVOjycu1z7yAHQqWIhbEsu0h11yRVcWbw6kiQVcd8FbxVzIkfOePjUZwyMEDD/s1600/L1050253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg46aBwdLNkv7bNmPfeIZkBE_emn5cUmpGAiQpnLxIga5VKWhHr_sox0RGG5myYUH0ObEE-KelWIdMnCLhUVOjycu1z7yAHQqWIhbEsu0h11yRVcWbw6kiQVcd8FbxVzIkfOePjUZwyMEDD/s640/L1050253.JPG" width="360" /></a></div>It hasn't taken long to grow into a good sized shrub. <br />
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Bright Warm Pink Camellias<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRDKGe3dyboDDTBj2-bEtakvl7Q3tdNaEomzkYMGAVW_Hujhsz3Bhe4ry41lpcGKv4ZrmXH066P7K6oKvsXntBToUpYvlw33YGGT3VN6p1skRWbCA4-oOxi0qLPiJ3C8JaYgJ2L4_L0wk0/s1600/L1050243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRDKGe3dyboDDTBj2-bEtakvl7Q3tdNaEomzkYMGAVW_Hujhsz3Bhe4ry41lpcGKv4ZrmXH066P7K6oKvsXntBToUpYvlw33YGGT3VN6p1skRWbCA4-oOxi0qLPiJ3C8JaYgJ2L4_L0wk0/s640/L1050243.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This blossom look almost like a hibiscus with yellow stamens. This spring camellias will lift any garden from its winter slumbers, transforming dull dreary days from late Feb to mid May.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUIvF7GuYes8_cSDKHpcKLHJwBfP_Eg1ZEsKXdsm7CcxjeS_AkUJsiFTQLHhUYM6T-u5tKRAAbKnmEIW09yv-M3lj4nWMdRgn56ZIeIQrIbKIhI5K7YUiJwa1lkH5xVRCHHD6RXqVaSpSx/s1600/L1050245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUIvF7GuYes8_cSDKHpcKLHJwBfP_Eg1ZEsKXdsm7CcxjeS_AkUJsiFTQLHhUYM6T-u5tKRAAbKnmEIW09yv-M3lj4nWMdRgn56ZIeIQrIbKIhI5K7YUiJwa1lkH5xVRCHHD6RXqVaSpSx/s640/L1050245.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>The flowers always take me by surprise. Suddenly they are there in the patio and I am always cheered by the warm deep pink tones.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzxu2HXvqu43H1w2xBxhpBbmaqkpUBtgNuqjqASZ1M0xtD4mUXNg3YSRVPu-F94bj_7ZTGwSzH1RGnSQmBByNWNYajT2z3_myLV6TJGfoV1tJAflSW5eJex_N2br13W7dgcsVzGJ3KGz2y/s1600/L1050246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzxu2HXvqu43H1w2xBxhpBbmaqkpUBtgNuqjqASZ1M0xtD4mUXNg3YSRVPu-F94bj_7ZTGwSzH1RGnSQmBByNWNYajT2z3_myLV6TJGfoV1tJAflSW5eJex_N2br13W7dgcsVzGJ3KGz2y/s640/L1050246.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Perhaps I should loosen the soil and put some fertilisers so as to get more blooms.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEE38opIn-xKwc45CcmAG2Jwwb0d1z2AsvH7aG6sxm2t8_BbtCkFh8oXTJZx8OE8vJv4exueLY64YiYsu2HmdiODT8jOn7ZsZ3QkOYEqQo-fo8UwLsJb2CICZUJvUcqrz7YyUjk_h8WcY1/s1600/L1050239.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEE38opIn-xKwc45CcmAG2Jwwb0d1z2AsvH7aG6sxm2t8_BbtCkFh8oXTJZx8OE8vJv4exueLY64YiYsu2HmdiODT8jOn7ZsZ3QkOYEqQo-fo8UwLsJb2CICZUJvUcqrz7YyUjk_h8WcY1/s640/L1050239.JPG" width="360" /></a></div>I dislike cutting away some of the branches coz I love the leaves which are so green and they enhance my garden brick wall.<br />
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White Camellia japonica L<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1VzNx_KeVIFkz_026af2HwsJ5G27YNqpmFVR26C7ImtNcpE7q2Z6I2jHj7NmUW5wRdVD9NIEqyZqbOndmEhb1qSJ9cDcOv_t4ZFW25MKS1zcylEbEDzrVRPB2_ojHBaah2DqEBrxGM85A/s1600/L1050250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1VzNx_KeVIFkz_026af2HwsJ5G27YNqpmFVR26C7ImtNcpE7q2Z6I2jHj7NmUW5wRdVD9NIEqyZqbOndmEhb1qSJ9cDcOv_t4ZFW25MKS1zcylEbEDzrVRPB2_ojHBaah2DqEBrxGM85A/s640/L1050250.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>This white peony like camellia has regular, curved fluted petals with yellow stamens and with fairly broad leaves.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijPqpWHyW-ZloRlvFOUS4ewgVTqcfepxSX-c_MfrFONdsNjefYaGhpP25efGVEnNMM_D0kT88IYJanGoXUNz1HjC0VP0sx5dwEeYG0BOY_WbcYiqNcLAqMTfF3unVsnqL92YXpzZvH_26s/s1600/L1050255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" q6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijPqpWHyW-ZloRlvFOUS4ewgVTqcfepxSX-c_MfrFONdsNjefYaGhpP25efGVEnNMM_D0kT88IYJanGoXUNz1HjC0VP0sx5dwEeYG0BOY_WbcYiqNcLAqMTfF3unVsnqL92YXpzZvH_26s/s640/L1050255.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Photography has the ability to capture a moment & preserve the flowers far beyond the brief time the flowers live. For a true flower enthusiast, photography is a natural partner with which to give pleasure in gardening and encouraging the act of flower therapy.<br />
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These 4 shrubs of Camellias in my garden have special memories for me as it was when we shifted to this house that I started to grow them. It reminded me of the excitement I had.<br />
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By growing flowers at home or just merely visiting a florist shop, not only enhance smell and thoughts but also gives a deep impact on the state of mind. Flowers help to pep up moods and emotions at all times.<br />
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EACH FLOWER IS A SOUL BLOSSOMING OUT TO NATURE<br />
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~ by Gerad De Nervel<br />
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Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-18462808428006594862010-09-12T05:44:00.056+08:002010-09-13T04:51:07.973+08:00WALKING YOUR WAY TO BETTER HEALTH<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymadbTdgdCnzI2_uE98tul1ZF_X2O2HJm1ydY_SrexGW797Egf3cj3q_r4NWHXVrwsM1rkqrX6Ghwgm0bVVUluPBnjVNgeSwA7x5LHeMDXmLVtK1KvNIQJ7Z6QqOs9W0gQLUU3lEdw66x/s1600/L1040358.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhymadbTdgdCnzI2_uE98tul1ZF_X2O2HJm1ydY_SrexGW797Egf3cj3q_r4NWHXVrwsM1rkqrX6Ghwgm0bVVUluPBnjVNgeSwA7x5LHeMDXmLVtK1KvNIQJ7Z6QqOs9W0gQLUU3lEdw66x/s400/L1040358.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> Created a scrapbook page on " WALK FOR HEALTH" using handmade metal embellishments.<br />
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Never knew walking could change my life!<br />
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After recovering from plantar fascitis at the end of last year, I was afraid to jog, walk and practically to do any vigorous exercises just in case I hurt my foot again. All I did was cycling in my gym. What a bore!<br />
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It was during last summer in London that I tried walking in the park. I began to realize I could walk for miles and my foot was fine. I love to walk, it makes me feel good and I walk in the morning, normally from 7 to 9 am. Walking in pleasant surroundings like in a park is a pleasure to walk in and gives me the opportunities for relaxation. The fresh air, the greens, the flowers and beauty I find in the park has such a positive effect on my feelings of wellbeing. After a month's daily ritual of brisk walking and some yoga stretches in between, my health has improved, I am more fit and most importantly it helps to take off extra weight and keep it off. Without fail, I am still walking every morning and it has become part of my daily needs and not wants!<br />
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Through some of my Facebook posts on my walks, I have received an enquiry from a close buddy of mine who is eager to know my 'technique' of brisk walking. I believed I have inspired her and I wish to encourage her to walk for a better health, walk my dear! Trust me! <br />
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Walking is such a good form of exercise that I wanna share the pleasure of walking with others and to inspire everyone, if you are not into walking, to start walking to stay strong, fit and healthy.<br />
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Walking is actually a low pact exercise with numerous health benefits. It can ease you into a higher level of fitness and health. Walking is one of our body's most natural form of exercise. It is safe, simple, doesn't require practice and the health benefits are many.<br />
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Brisk is best! A simple way to work out how briskly you should walk is to walk fast without overexertion and still able to hold conversations. At the same time I like to swing my arms forward and backwards, a chance to get rid of 'sausage arms', LOL.<br />
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If you can't walk far or don't have the time, just a 30 minute walk daily will suffice as recommended by experts for general health. Did you know it can cut the risk of heart disease in women by as much as 40% according to a recent Harvard Study?<br />
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Walking can:<br />
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* improve circulation<br />
* helps breathing<br />
* improve your mood, combats depression <br />
* bolsters the immune system<br />
* helps prevent osteoporosis<br />
* helps control weight<br />
* helps and prevents control diabetes.<br />
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And did you know that brisk walking has the same benefits you would get from aerobics, jogging and other vigorous exercises?<br />
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The only equipment you need to walk is a good pair of walking shoes. So before you set out, select your comfortable footwear with a well cushioned heel, good arch support and enough room for your toes to wiggle. Dress in loose fitting clothes and in layers if you need to adjust to changing temperatures. Choose clothes appropriate for the weather. <br />
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Warming up - this is a must. I would normally start walking slowly for 5 minutes to warm up muscles.<br />
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Stretching - After warming up, I would do some stretching of my calf, quadriceps and hamstring muscles. If you do yoga, sun salutation would give the stretch needed. Yoga-ing outdoor is fun!<br />
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Remember to cool down after each walking session by taking a slow walk for about 5 minutes.<br />
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Then it's time for a cup of tea, that's when I will make a beeline to the Lido Cafe at The Serpentine Hyde Park.<br />
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I have 2 doctors, my left leg and my right.<br />
~ George Trevelyan, 1913<br />
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I 've been through every diet under the sun and I can tell you that getting up, getting out and walking is always the first goal.<br />
~ Oprah WinfreyPuan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-44116078564005769512010-07-10T07:07:00.005+08:002010-07-10T23:39:04.760+08:00SEEING THE WORLD UPSIDE-DOWN WITH MY RECOMMENDED YOGA POSEHow do you like to see the world upside-down?<br />
Well, you can do that with my favourite and recommended yoga asana which I practise daily without fail - its THE FORWARD EXTENSION LEGS WIDE APART<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibo1T41jk2XoBL5fnS9KFo_BiPiddrMTq8m-nJZRsCaG6Dqx6SpzFivYVXYW_6kXICKor8lmEXsBsQoPag7Oku6P-VJtzl7X8Z2ZbXZqIklD0vyIgqGZMeKhcP5hV_2dTKOL_QFlQgKG-O/s1600/IMG00167-20100708-0815.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibo1T41jk2XoBL5fnS9KFo_BiPiddrMTq8m-nJZRsCaG6Dqx6SpzFivYVXYW_6kXICKor8lmEXsBsQoPag7Oku6P-VJtzl7X8Z2ZbXZqIklD0vyIgqGZMeKhcP5hV_2dTKOL_QFlQgKG-O/s320/IMG00167-20100708-0815.jpg" /></a></div>THE FUN SIDE<br />
I personally find it very interesting, fun and in fact natural like a newborn baby to view images - trees, buildings, people etc.. from a different angle, watching the world go by upside down!! Try it and you will know what I mean.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirFllC1BRYBiu49f4XPPimPWCNWoFd_KXOj2JmYWmEMyk2psRavLvUSYhpWxZs4zH-JXPcqEzMe4r_poWYyjK2NoHgdHbNIgf4IyIyQeO-N-wGTsYaT6zo4BU6IZmU0yVR04ALmGeU61EX/s1600/IMG00164-20100708-0748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirFllC1BRYBiu49f4XPPimPWCNWoFd_KXOj2JmYWmEMyk2psRavLvUSYhpWxZs4zH-JXPcqEzMe4r_poWYyjK2NoHgdHbNIgf4IyIyQeO-N-wGTsYaT6zo4BU6IZmU0yVR04ALmGeU61EX/s320/IMG00164-20100708-0748.jpg" /></a></div>Why like a baby? Did you know that newborn babies see the world upside-down? They begin to focus only about 2 months and over a period of 8 months they learn to turn the images right-side up.<br />
And...I am sure you do know that the images formed on your retina are upside-down too. Your brain, the brilliant and fantastic tool , then works hard to make sure you see the images right-side up.<br />
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THE SERIOUS SIDE<br />
Forward extension legs wide apart has a great effect on your body, it helps to improve your posture and circulation. What I normally do is after the practise of this asana I would lightly pat my face sort of massaging it. This helps to firm and tone up the facial muscles , giving the FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH!!<br />
So why wait, get cracking and make it your habit to incorporate this pose in your daily yoga practice to look a few years younger!!<br />
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I had a good laugh when I heard this reply from a cheeky guy who replied on my topic of seeing the world upside-down......<br />
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"I see upside down.....its great for looking up skirts!" LOL<br />
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A YOGA POSE A DAY KEEPS THE DOCTOR AWAY!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-8106099680026617472010-07-06T04:28:00.001+08:002010-07-07T04:34:11.321+08:00PARK BENCH MEDITATIONI belong to the group of people who have been introduced to meditation and would like to enhance my practice. I particularly love to meditate outdoors in the park on a seated position and I use the technique of focusing and listening to my breath. For the health of my body and mind, and peace of spirit, I have started to incorporate meditation into my daily life. By meditating I learn to relax and quieten my 'monkey' mind. There is no doubt that meditation is the path to find my way to experience bliss and happiness.<br />
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Did you know of ' PARK BENCH MEDITATION' <br />
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If you like to watch 'the world go by' then Park Bench Meditation' will come easily to you. It's an interesting way of pulling back your energy and simply allowing the world to revolve all around you while you sit quietly for 30 minutes on a bench.<br />
What a way to meditate!! I tried in the park one morning and it works!!<br />
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</div>Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-22845043182627135112010-07-05T21:53:00.000+08:002010-07-05T21:53:43.986+08:00MY YOGA EXPERIENCE WITH NATUREWoke up 5am this morning, walked towards Kensington Park and straight on to Hyde Park. I must praise the city of London for having such beautiful parks to compliment it and for the locals and visitors to withdraw from the hustle and bustle of overcrowded London. The lush green trees, plants, open fields and gardens are the lungs of the city .<br />
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I am very fortunate to be staying around the vicinity of both parks and so to ignore the greens and not to breathe in the fresh air in the park is a great shame.<br />
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There I was this morning and as I walked interacting with the beautiful greens, flowers, birds, ducks wading in the lake, I felt so so good to be part of nature. You know I discovered that connecting yoga with nature is a gratifying extension of my current practice. Since my last yoga retreat, I began to realize my enjoyment and connection with the outdoors having in mind that yoga emphasizes on creating a more mindful existence.<br />
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MOUNTAIN POSE (TADASANA)<br />
I stood still ,secured and steady as a mountain. I focused and listened to my breathing, expanding my lungs as I breathed in.<br />
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STANDING TALL<br />
I stood tall interacting with the tree behind me<br />
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TO DISRESS<br />
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CHAIRPOSE<br />
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VARIATIONS OF WARRIOR POSES<br />
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FORWARD EXTENSION LEG WIDE APART<br />
I breathed in and looked forward..<br />
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I bend with palm flat and head relaxed towards ground..<br />
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DOWNWARD DOG<br />
Nowadays I feel at ease practising this asana...<br />
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CONNECTING WITH ANIMALS<br />
Hyde Park, if you have been there you would have seen the little tiny furry squirrel- like animals.<br />
Well, I had a surprise companion this morning who joined me for my yoga practice.....who ??? only this cute little squirrel ( its not squirrel , not sure of its name) who was totally so unafraid of humans and welcomed my presence...have a look...perhaps it was watching me all the time and not wanting to lose out my little companion performed 2 poses with pride to show off.......LOL<br />
STANDING POSE<br />
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DOWNWARD CLIMBING POSE ??? LOL<br />
Is there such a posture haha!<br />
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Fusing yoga with nature is one great way to escape stress, invigorates the body and nurture the soul.<br />
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LET NATURE BE YOUR TEACHER<br />
~ by William Wordsworth<br />
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</div>Puan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8380629934353504906.post-14223954554586814132010-07-04T21:47:00.000+08:002010-07-05T21:54:03.287+08:00MY YOGA EXPERIENCE - 1ST SERIES<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>My yoga path started 2 years ago. The initial one and a half years I attended classes irregularly due to my many travels. It was the beginning of this year, Jan 2010, that I finally decided to have private yoga sessions on a one-to-one basis at least thrice a week. These private lessons are good in the way that they are taylored to fit my life experiences and my personal yoga instructor's approach to teaching, allows me to develop a practice that is relevant to my body.<br />
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I believe in yoga and its wonderful benefits. The testimonies of self realisation and seeing the physical transformation of friends who are serious yogis have inspired me to learn about, practise and understand more the art of yoga. I must say that yoga did help to reduce my body aches, stress and tensions, increases my awareness, calms my mind and liberate my pains and miseries.<br />
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As I practise and makes progress I feel my flexibility, my arms and legs strength increasing. Some days I feel supple and other days as stiff as a stick. I have been advised to choose my poses or sequence with sensibility to my needs and abilities.<br />
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Is yoga an art?<br />
Yoga is not merely an ancient science which leads to healthy body, peaceful mind, joyous heart and liberated soul. It is an art and I like to relate it to the art of sculpture. My body is the support - the stone, the marble, the clay, the wood etc... and I the sculptor who passionately and joyfully, slowly and steadily, sculpts and transform the support/body through the various asanas to a beautiful toned body, to realisation and happiness, to a positive attitude towards life and to an overall wellbeing both physical and mental. Sounds beautiful yes? <br />
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So I decided to share the first blog post on my yoga experience via this art blog while the rest will be in my holistic blog ( in the making !!)<br />
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Recently I was flattered indeed to be offered a suggestion by my instructor that some of my poses can be photographed not only for my blog but more importantly to review the achievements I have perfected to a certain extent ( quite a good standard that was what she told me, I guess only an A grade no distinction, LOL <br />
These pics were taken during my lessons by Janet ...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>TREE POSE (VRKSASANA)<br />
This is a standing pose that improves balance. It is indeed challenging to stand on one leg. Helps to stretch inner thighs, groins, shoulders and strengthens thighs and calves.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid8HS4pE9OMtQAfDAeT1PUAsQs9NzHgCHSp7L6LFhweVKJ5wHo9tTvVBTkWG8j1stYrVeSMHUgw10MjelhcKWwYwNpcAakyt78h2W6Aq4_swF4xSuIaeDsp24U8RztpkI6P24ezgspggob/s1600/L1020768.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid8HS4pE9OMtQAfDAeT1PUAsQs9NzHgCHSp7L6LFhweVKJ5wHo9tTvVBTkWG8j1stYrVeSMHUgw10MjelhcKWwYwNpcAakyt78h2W6Aq4_swF4xSuIaeDsp24U8RztpkI6P24ezgspggob/s320/L1020768.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFGmCQapN1WNpdZ5eZ4aP4L9dvm1UBkwOrR6R-SXuwiUJbqUsPn-442pdhwWyCquTfz3s09KlRLinxFKp9WktXb2ZixdqN6U7ZzATlW-buS8Ow0wdiLDRdy_J2uVMyfXjgGdP1TlS2w3gN/s1600/L1020769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFGmCQapN1WNpdZ5eZ4aP4L9dvm1UBkwOrR6R-SXuwiUJbqUsPn-442pdhwWyCquTfz3s09KlRLinxFKp9WktXb2ZixdqN6U7ZzATlW-buS8Ow0wdiLDRdy_J2uVMyfXjgGdP1TlS2w3gN/s320/L1020769.JPG" /></a></div>TRIANGLE POSE (TRIKONASANA)<br />
This pose helps to tone, slim and shape the waist and legs. It also builds strength and flexibility in the legs.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWjFtcSPQSH4Ar-CS0SfqHM0SdP_Tsl25jFRz7R0VSBAfVq7rpBN3gxCldD2OawAO-FTbSEvrgePwlDpRnAkJC-JLuAOoUyPFLFBFziZG9FgtwyDBIvqw03bzwU5LMPCIj1GM5swek3PqM/s1600/L1020758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWjFtcSPQSH4Ar-CS0SfqHM0SdP_Tsl25jFRz7R0VSBAfVq7rpBN3gxCldD2OawAO-FTbSEvrgePwlDpRnAkJC-JLuAOoUyPFLFBFziZG9FgtwyDBIvqw03bzwU5LMPCIj1GM5swek3PqM/s320/L1020758.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjye14NKbf7jNhFp0_AD8xSP3NYhyty6u2jiAsRtvUtY38xP1r0bhyphenhyphenpr-jbwA03GP7j1YaTah8P8jGl4YD3hn1bojKAtcuQh4yWXKHzd0TUMEYGL8zCWrQIaXPQ0X8fvan3TErACEIEkU01/s1600/L1020759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjye14NKbf7jNhFp0_AD8xSP3NYhyty6u2jiAsRtvUtY38xP1r0bhyphenhyphenpr-jbwA03GP7j1YaTah8P8jGl4YD3hn1bojKAtcuQh4yWXKHzd0TUMEYGL8zCWrQIaXPQ0X8fvan3TErACEIEkU01/s320/L1020759.JPG" /></a></div>HALF MOON<br />
Very often I do use props like cushions, blocks, straps, chairs, blankets etc... to practise some movements. <br />
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This is an exhilarating posture that firms, tones and strengthens the arms, shoulders, spine and abdominal areas. It relieves fatique, stimulates the flow of vital energy and slows the heartbeat.<br />
I do this pose daily as it takes away the stiffness in my ankles, heels, the back of the legs and the shoulders. If you do not have the time, do this pose and its good enough, better than not doing at all.<br />
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This posture will assist to stretch the legs and to expand, extend and rejuvenate. I bend at my hips, reach forward and relax downwards with head towards the floor. Breathing is important and the stretch is at the back of both legs.<br />
I do this pose almost daily as it increases the flow of blood to the brain thus relieving my headaches,<br />
anxiety, irritability and my sleepness nights . It also firms the back of legs and thighs. So ladies take note, if you still wanna go for short skirts/shorts do this pose. LOL.<br />
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This asana gives youthful body ' the fountain of youth'. It is beneficial for spine, improves flexibility and strength. Relieves tension in the shoulders and lower back and it opens the chest.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0wVoBRk07Kf1K8fdvDng7E857h5hEqYiurnzFPUnFe3yy-HHNbfI5Yk6O5X9CSSZv4tf-PCS3fkGNMM9JxVKp5moFY1tb9N4z13J3MQNpJ9zkuV9a4BCOBfTd5IR8cAbXaM21f1L9dAK/s1600/L1020774.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0wVoBRk07Kf1K8fdvDng7E857h5hEqYiurnzFPUnFe3yy-HHNbfI5Yk6O5X9CSSZv4tf-PCS3fkGNMM9JxVKp5moFY1tb9N4z13J3MQNpJ9zkuV9a4BCOBfTd5IR8cAbXaM21f1L9dAK/s320/L1020774.JPG" /></a></div>SHOULDER STAND <br />
Being a beginner, the best way to do this pose safely is to practise supported shoulder stand initially. This posture improves the circulation of blood and stretches the shoulders, tones and strengthens the buttocks, thighs and back of legs. It also strengthens the spine and can help to prevent varicose veins. These 2 pictures are for behind the scene to review my progress. I certainly need to work harder to strengthen my back to lift my body upright for the perfect shoulder stand.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHVDUDDlZLkVBlIiCCCkUVXs3RS-80t9wR44r7ewcfiDXobQ_5zx3i_2DQ5uPhxSbJ8_CTbmbhXmzVX9bdD7e_S5DDeMjEi-wqsYyMdBhjolYFhtW1V4UEkIChri_QVci49uUl0ww7vL8g/s1600/L1020781.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHVDUDDlZLkVBlIiCCCkUVXs3RS-80t9wR44r7ewcfiDXobQ_5zx3i_2DQ5uPhxSbJ8_CTbmbhXmzVX9bdD7e_S5DDeMjEi-wqsYyMdBhjolYFhtW1V4UEkIChri_QVci49uUl0ww7vL8g/s320/L1020781.JPG" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzbUdOKupXNGHEu1l6vbn43rlQrhzBc5GQDtV2ZmPkYF5_N8h8F23DamuY3UMCknGdDN2OwjFUIAYyItyPcUZPYGzS3QsWBVFS8nMMYhE0lb5-x3upUredtsRLusS7Ve1viBkilz6jxGDY/s1600/L1020782.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzbUdOKupXNGHEu1l6vbn43rlQrhzBc5GQDtV2ZmPkYF5_N8h8F23DamuY3UMCknGdDN2OwjFUIAYyItyPcUZPYGzS3QsWBVFS8nMMYhE0lb5-x3upUredtsRLusS7Ve1viBkilz6jxGDY/s320/L1020782.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>During the past 3 to 4 months, the emphasis was planned on my posture alignment and stability and building up my strength and suppleness. It certainly entailed lots of effort and willpower to get my asanas right. For instance my downward dog pose is an inverted 'V' now but not before. Though I have mastered some of the postures fairly well but there is still a need to do over and over again to perfect them and practise with ease. Nowadays I make it a point to practise daily, 20 mins in the morning and in the evening before bed 5 to 10 mins, only light stretches like the forward bend to ease tensions.<br />
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My ladies, please do not worry how we look in our yoga gears or how unfit we are , we just have to roll down our mats and get moving. And never rushed, better to do less and practise with grace and ease.<br />
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A word of thanks to Janet my personal instructor for her effort, dedication and patience.<br />
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Namaste! <br />
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YOGA - THE SYMPHONY OF LIFEPuan Sri Toh Ee Siewhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05352018303151531825noreply@blogger.com0