15 minutes Easy Yoga

Hello, sharing this short and simple Asana practice that you can try at home. Just a reminder to be gentle to yourself while enjoying the flow. Namaste!

5 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD TRAVEL SOLO

Surely it is fun to travel with someone, as the saying goes two heads are better than one. If you are used to traveling with someone and you haven’t tried walking the way on your own, now is the perfect time to go for it.

Traveling alone is life changing. There are a lot of great things that you can encounter along the way. Moreover, it is a perfect way to overcome your fear while seeing the world. Here are few reasons why you should travel alone.

Discover Yourself More

You may have different questions about yourself that are unanswered. By traveling alone, you can find more meaning to your life. Because you do not have a travel buddy. Thus, you will force yourself to do things that you thought you cannot do.

Freedom

You can decide on your own. There is no need to consider the feelings and decision of someone because you are the master of your plan. You can go and explore anytime and anywhere in your convenience.

More Friends

There are lonely times when you travel alone. However, it is a perfect time for you to assimilate with the locals and meet new friends. Once you started to do that, your connections will boost. You can tell everyone that you have friends from different countries. For sure, your new friends will orient you to the place and culture. So, you can have a travel guide plus you will just feel at home.

You Can Keep Up With Your Budget

When you travel alone, you can spend according to your means. There would be no one to pressure you to eat out at a certain restaurant or shop when you do not prefer.

Build Up Your Confidence

You can encounter mistakes and troubles along the way. But after you overcome it, you will gain learnings from it.  As scuh, it is quite fulfilling to track a journey on your own. You are positive because, in every destination that you have visited, it is conquering the world.

Would you love to travel alone or with someone? Share your thoughts freely in my box below.

Wander love,

Khaosan Road, BKK; Some Things to Know and Expect

A backpacker’s haven as it is; the Khaosan Road is a place that you should not miss with your Bangkok trail. This road is widely popular amongst traveler who loves assimilating with culture and enjoying the local vibes. Moreover, this place is packed with guesthouses, café’s, shops, and any hippie things that you can think of.

However, Khaosan is not just your ordinary road, it actually played a big role in Thailand’s history. Have you ever wondered how it was named? Khaosan means ‘’milled rice’’ it was called that way because it was once a rice market. So, before it was being flocked with travelers from different nations, it was a hub for the locals.

Moving on, it became a travel information center in Thailand. Backpackers started to crowd the place. Once, it was also known as a dirty place with lots of bugs, trash, and dirt. Well, it brought a bad image about Khaosan; however, a change was being made for it.

When we visited Khaosan, I think it was perfect. Khaosan is Khaosan anyway! Its atmosphere and vibes made it Khaosan.

There are lots of tribal shops on the street with prices that you can haggle. Moreover, I could not forget how I was mesmerized by the beautiful misangas that we purchased beside the road.

Here is one of the catch; you can have insects as snacks here! Exotic right? Well, you should try it, even if you feel that its gross. It is one of the essences of travel anyway, eat local foods and experience the world. So, choose your insect snacks.

At night it turns into a sort of party place. Travelers can enjoy music and doses of beverages.

Khaosan is just a short road and it would just take few minutes if you will stroll from its end to end. However, you will surely enjoy observing its daily norms.

Have you visited Khaosan? Feel free to link your stories or drop some words in my box below. I am quite curious about your experience. Moreover, if you are still planning to visit, do not hesitate to ask if you have questions. Ko pun ka!

Sumer Kisses,

Recovering from Ankylosing Spondylitis and Spinal Disc Bulge

You may come across my story about my back pain story. Having this kind of condition, made my opportunities limited and it almost led me into depression and anxiety. The intense pain that I went through was 24/7 and it came to a point that every single movement and touch created sudden excruciating pain. Despite the pain, I still went to work because I believed that being stuck at home would make me think much of my condition. Going to work was my way of distraction. However, I am working in a clinical process industry as a medical utilization review nurse and the medical conditions that I usually analyze were the same conditions as mine. So I still can’t escape the thoughts of terrfying pain.

Well, my MRI showed disc bulges on the two levels of my spine L4-L5 and L5-S1 plus the chronic and severe SI joint inflammation. The disc bulging  MRI results were definitive and I also agreed on it. However, for the SI joint inflammation, further tests were required in order to rule out its etiology, whether it was infectious in origin or if it was Ankylosing Spondylitis. Ankylosing Spondylitis is a form of arthritis that usually affects the spine. It inflames the spinal joints, which can lead to severe chronic pain and discomfort. Its hallmark feature is the involvement of the Sacroiliac joint (SI).

So, I had series of tests and the results were remarkable. Knowing that my rheumatologist ruled out that it was indeed Ankylosing Spondylitis. It made me worry much because there is no exact cure for it. If it is unmanaged, the symptoms are no joke. I was already in total pain and I can’t walk without the assistance of a cane. When I discovered the possible progressing symptoms that an AS patient could experience such as having a bamboo spine, it made me feel that my world was crushed. So, how am I recovering from it? How did I go from severe to mild pain? How am I currently gaining back my life?

My Heart and Intuition Chose Initial Conservative Treatment Options
My rheumatologist told me that I needed to undergo biological therapy. A biologic therapy involves targeting molecules responsible for the mechanism of the immune system. Let me skip more of the scientific terminologies but the common drugs are disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and anti-cytokines, just to name some. To make it short, the idea is to suppress the overreacting immune system. These drugs are administered intravenously and are costly. Aside from its cost, I do not want to hurt my system more. I discussed the new diagnosis to my chiropractor, he does not fully agree with the new diagnosis. I brought up the topic about the biologic therapy and my hesitations for it. He gave me light to try initial conservative treatments first.

I took a Rest
I initially researched everything about AS. Since it is an autoimmune disease, the only way to manage it is to balance your immune system. The ways are complicated, but the highlight is to manage its roots.
Moreover, I do not want to instill in my mind and body that I am having AS.

I decided to be Off-work
Although I was afraid for the income that I would lose, I finally decided to be off work when my rheumatologist told me that I have Ankylosing Spondylitis. I realized that I was just punishing myself more whenever I go to work. Instead of spending my energy to work, I tried to reserve for my extra energy for healing.

I Accepted my Condition
This is when I started to feel better. I accepted that fact that the pain is a part of my life. However, am thinking brightly that it is just temporary. I have this kind of a pain because I abused myself and there are negativities inside me. The pain is a consequence of my actions and a reminder that I needed to take slow and care for myself.

I am Thinking Positively
Stress is the mother of all diseases. Being stressed causes increase inflammation in the body. A high level of stress increases the cortisol levels in your body, which triggers inflammation process. Right now, whenever a problem arises, I don’t think of it much. I usually open my heart and mind. Moreover, there is a solution for everything and being stressed would not help.
I came across with ASVictors website, where I found imagery as an immediate pain relief. Moreover, I silently joined a group on facebook group MindBody Healing With Ralphitness, where I was able to learn that there are also other people who are suffering from this condition. Moreover, I was able to hear testimonies and obtain emotional and mental cues for AS recovery.

Starch Free Diet

Many studies show that starchy foods can make your autoimmune symptoms worst.
So I decided to cut my starch consumption.

– I only had glutinous rice
– Coconut sugar as sweetener
– No baked goods
– More meat and vegetables
– Natural Fruit Juices
– Fruits especially pineapple
I also based whatever I consume from THE LONDON “AS” DIET from Kickas.

Apple Cider a Day

Apple Cider indeed has a lot of benefits. I though that it is only for losing weight and for beauty purposes; however, it could actually be a treatment for AS. I initially learned about the Apple Cider treatment from Kyle Mecca’s video on youtube.

I tried it and I believe that it worked for me actually.

There are many studies in pubmed.com that show a link between gut microbes and stimulation of autoimmune condition. Apple Cider vinegar could clean your gut, decreasing the bacteria that are associated with the autoimmune inflammation process.
Here is the evidenced-based medical research by Dr. Alan Ebringer.

I wish I could extend my gratitude to him for pioneering that research.
Exercise

I did my best to move as much as possible. Although the amount of pain was terrible, I knew that if I don’t move, my muscles would atrophy. I got my muscles working; I tolerated simple and gentle exercises. I remember that I can’t raise my pelvis for the bridge exercise before. I started with two, progressed to five, and now I can do it gently with no pain at all. I also had the opportunity to attend yoga class by Casandra, where I learned more helpful exercise and stretching routines for my back pain. She also went through musculoskeletal chronic pain condition and had a full recovery, so her story inspired me as well. Her training suits me well. She understands my condition because she also suffered the same thing. She is the best yoga mentor that I met. To know her more and to learn from  her personally just check out her page trainwithcassandra.

Chiropractic Treatment
I love visiting my chiropractor because he was just so therapeutic. The very first time that I walked in his clinic; everything around my low back including my hips and groin hurts. Whenever I do the treatment, he always says that I am going to be healed. Every after the chiropractic sessions, I experience immediate relief on certain portions of my low back, until my groin and butt pains subsided.
I do not take any pain medications; I only had physical therapy once. The chiropractic treatment played a major role in my recovery.
If you are in the Philippines, visit Dr. Pardi’s clinic in Ayala Cebu, he is a licensed chiropractor from America. I do not know any chiropractic doctor in the Philippines except him.

As of now, I am back to work, I can walk very well, and I was able to travel. I am grateful that I was able to manage my condition and gained back my strength. Although not in total recovery yet, I believe that I am getting there and I would be back as before. I am sharing this post to give insights and hope to people who are suffering from the same condition. If I was able to recover, why won’t you? Start it with your mind.

Did you also suffer from chronic pain, how did you handle it? Maybe, you have questions regarding this post; just do not hesitate to post in my box. I would love to discuss healing with you.

Health and healing,

Planning for Malapascua Island Ph? Read This!

It is quite far and heading there takes some patient, but who would not grab risks and endure the butt heat while transporting, when soon you will be rewarded with a mesmerizing paradise? As my one told me, the way to a beautiful island is not always easy,  because they are precious. People who get to experience them are the ones who only deserve them. They are hard to get because they are teaching people that effort comes with a fruit. Moreover, it would help you value your hard work and appreciate the island more.

Remember the feeling when you are opening a gift? Well, it is quite the same or maybe more than that. When the boat is about to reach the port, the turquoise crystal clear water would want to make you jump. Plus, you can see lots of birds flying, making you wonder if they are migratory birds or local birds having a fest with the fishes.

The island is quiet and laid-back. During our visit we noticed that the crowd usually hits the beach during happy hours from 4:00-6:00 pm. So probably, during the quiet times, people are gone island hopping, snorkeling, or diving.

Regarding the costs, we stayed near bounty beach, and the prices are quite well. However, if you wanted to stay longer and save more, there are lots of dormitories offers ranging from 6-8 dollars a day.

For the food, the beachside restaurants offer reasonable prices also. But, if you want some island hacks, you might not like to spend it there all the time. Find a local barbecue shop and eat with locals. Head to Ging-gings, the prices are cheap, a lot of foreigners eat there, and they’ve got potentials.

Moving on, the easiest way to tour around the island is through a motorbike. You can have it with a driver or rent it on your own. However, it is better to book a boat!

Snorkelling is such a happy pill here. There are just a lot of fishes and taking selfies with are just easy. The waters are clear and the fishes seem domesticated, but of course it always depend on the weather.

Finally, the highlight! The thresher shark is just the top reason why this island is being flocked with tourists around the world. Yes sharks, they are not harmful unless you will show them a bad move. Isn’t it actually amazing to observe how creatures behave under the sea? Especially with the sharks, they are one of the world’s most vulnerable species. It is an opportunity to see them, before they go extinct.

If you love the beach and wanted to mingle with the fishes? Hit your thoughts in my box below. I would love to discuss the ocean with you. Also, if you have questions about Malapascua, just feel free to drop it.

Summer Kisses and Love,

Deus Ex Machina Canggu; a Holistic Bar and Life Shop

Just like a child’s feeling with the thoughts Disneyland, our excitements are overflowing and we cannot contain it. I have mentioned Deus Ex Machina on my previous post about the 10 things to do in Canggu. However, this café is just so good and I cannot resist writing a separate post. Why so special? Well, talking about jaw dropping, head turner, custom-made, classical motorbikes, you can find super cool collections here.

Furthermore, this café does not only revolve around the world of bike enthusiasts. Deus makes everything and it is for everyone. From motorbikes to surfboards, posters, accessories, outfits, and artworks, there is so much to see! Grooming? No problem, they also have a barbershop. Moreover, let me highlight the FOOD and DRINKS, your cravings will be surely satisfied with their sumptuous meal. Oh! How about a funky party night with colorful music and lively vibes? I am sure you will love it! With only a few shops all over the world, grab the opportunity to visit this shop whenever you are in Bali.

Let us make it rolling and let me drizzle you with experiences from the Temple of Enthusiasm

What welcomes you?

A full parking area on happy hours, but of course you will be very well accommodated and be given a slot. Based on this impression you would not hesitate to think that DEUS is really handsome and would not wonder why he has a lot of visitors. Most of the times, the restaurant is full, so just have patience while waiting for a table if you do not have a reservation.

A Lifestyle Shop

Is it an ordinary shop? No way! Can I call it a museum instead? The displays are just so unique and I believe that every design was made with an artful heart. You would wish to bring home one of their motorcycle, surfboards, t-shirts, and just everything.

Wait it is addictive, so I would share a secret that we took home this customized glass mat and a match as a souvenir.

Art Exhibit

It comes with a surprise; a step from another door will take you to the works of Saskia Koerber. The exhibit showcases the feminine spirit of the single fin girls who portrays surfing passion. You will appreciate the glow of her arts. Furthermore, memorize the angles and emotions in the pictures. I am sure that it would help on your next Instagram surfing pose.

Satisfying Meals and Drinks

Are you hungry after shopping? Well, you deserve a very nice delicious treat! They have a very nice ambiance, delicious foods, and thirst quenching drinks. Try their steak and it would just melt in your mouth. Their service is pretty good also; they have very accommodating and friendly staffs. So, it will make you dine again on the next day. They also have free drinks or buy 1 take 1 promotions, just browse their FB page and get updated.

Jam and Play

Is your soul looking for a chill? Join one of their Sunday sessions and be carried away with the music plus the vibrant crowd. Do not hesitate to move your body and enjoy every beat. After the night, you will step out the vicinity of Deus Ex Machina with a youthful energy and a big smile painted on your face.

They operate 7 days a week from 8 to 10 pm.

Location: Jalan Batu Mejan No.8, Canggu, 80361 Bali, Indonesia

Phone number: +62 361 368 3386

Email: info@id.deuscustoms.com

Check out their sites and pages.

• http://www.deusbaliblog.co.id
• http://www.deus.com.au
• http://www.facebook.com/euscustoms
• http://www.twitter.com/euscustoms
• http://deuscustoms.tumblr.com

Would you love to visit Canggu? Oh, please do not miss Deus Ex Machina. Let me know your Canggu thoughts or Bali  experiences in my box.

Find accomodations near Deus Ex Machina Canggu in Bali.

Summer Kisses,

 

One-stop Dive Botique; Dive Guru Boracay Hotel Review

You may have read my post regarding our Boracay visit.

Anyway, let me feature Dive Guru here of station 3, for the awesome experience and service that they gave. Well, if you love riding a boat, swimming to the deep, and kissing the fishes, you should book this accommodation.

Dive Guru is actually a diving boutique, offering diving and accommodation package. A diver or not, you will have a great stay here.

Can you imagine? Whenever there is a diving schedule for other guests or walk-in clients; the in-house guests can borrow snorkel, fins and ride the boat for free.

It is super amazing! Most of the boats are also parked here which is an easy access for island hopping.

Just imagine how much you will spend if you will book for island hopping that would cost around 31 USD plus the rental of snorkel gears around 10 USD.

Indeed, staying at Dive Guru was relaxing and cost-saving. I hope you can experience Dive Guru as well. You can check, compare the rates, and book it through hotels combined. You can also click the image below for you to find great hotel deals in Boracay.

Summer Kisses,

Heart Moving Light Show of Supertree Grove SG

Whenever you visit Singapore, you should not skip Super Tree Grove. Skipping this garden themed park is just like missing a part of your life when you visit Singapore. This billion dollar garden architecture is jaw dropping and simply stunning. Moreover, this is considered as one of the most brilliant and mega architectures of the world. Each of the Supertree acts like a real tree. There are different kinds of plant that grown on the Supertree such as orchids and vines. Also, the Supertree collects water during heavy rains for irrigation. Not just your ordinary tree, it also converts natural energy to run the vicinity.

We were able to visit Supertree Grove during sunset and we wandered around until it gets dark. We do not have any plans to spend half of the night around Supertree Grove, we did not research further about it, and did know anything about the light show. All we wanted was to take a picture around. However, when we were about to go home, we noticed a lot of people gathered around the Supertrees. So, we just decided to stay and eat some foods. Unexpectedly, what happened next was the light show.

See how beautiful they are. Fortunately, we were able to bring human sized scarves, so we lay down on it above the ground. The light show was superb. The transition of the sparkling light of the Supertrees coordinated perfectly with the music. So, it was like being in a fantasy and having a very nice dream.

The show lasted for an hour. So, the time was enough for us to enjoy. During the show, my jaw usually drops and I could not stop expressing my amusement. We were able to take great pictures and play with the lights.

Where in the world can you experience this dazzling music and light composition for free? Unfortunately, It is only in Singapore. Just take note that the show starts 7:45 pm to 8:45 pm daily.

Well, the venue and the show were romantic. Indeed, it was a perfect timing for us. We actually considered it as the highlight of our Singapore trip.

Would you like to visit Singapore and witness Supertree Grove light show? Maybe you already went there. Just feel free to share your experiences and opinion in my box below. 

Summer Kisses,

Boracay Island Activities to Include on Your List

The pure white sands, sun-filled activities, perfect sunset, nightlife fun, international vibes, and simply everything. Who wouldn’t be captivated by one of the world’s popular beaches Boracay? But probably it is contrary to what it looked like 10 years ago; long, wide, white shoreline, crystal clear waters, unpopulated, and not even a piece of garbage I guess.

Moving on, everything is still wonderful! The white beach, coconut trees, boats, ocean waves, sea breeze, sunset, island music, plus the people from different races, would surely give you a dose of a perfect summer. I think everyone deserves to have a perfect summer getaway. If you are a person who loves the nature and could flow with the crowd, definitely this is one of your islands. However, for those who want to experience peace, don’t worry, this island could also offer you that.

This island’s shoreline is too long, that it was divided into 3 stations. Station 1 and 2 offers a lot of restaurants, beachside souvenirs, and beach bums. While station 3 brings lesser crowd, simplicity, and peace.

Without any idea about those stations, we were lucky to choose an accommodation at station 3. Most of the boats are being parked here an easy access to the deep part of the sea and we are so happy because we love diving and snorkeling. We actually stayed at Dive Gurus, which is also a diving boutique, and we were so happy because whenever someone is scheduled to dive, guests can borrow snorkel gears including fins and ride the boat for free. Yes for free, so amazing right? How much you will spend if you book for island hopping and rent snorkel and fins. It would cost around 600 USD.

Okay, let us start, what welcomes you? There is a long shore with white sands and an intimately inviting ocean. Tell me if you could resist. Just go ahead and spoil yourself. Reminder, before that adrenaline rush drives you into the crystal waters, check in first. The flocks of the crowd may want you to settle and secure your things first.

Traveling would not be complete without sun-filled activities. Aside from swimming, an island experience would not be complete without other sun-filled activities. Go parasailing, braid your hair or try being a mermaid for a day. Name beach activities, probably everything are here. You may want to read my mermaid story here.

In the afternoon, your energy might be drained. Please, do not stroll away; you would regret not to see the heart-melting sunset of Boracay.

So, where would you go when the sunset is off and everything gets dark? Chill and stay on the beachside. Your energy will be regained after watching the sunset. Wait for the tables and the music baffles to be prepared. After that, it is time to have a bountiful dinner and keep the energy flowing at night.

To sum it up Boracay is party, eat, swim, sunset, and repeat.

What is the beach that you visited recently? Any stories that you want to tell? Feel free to link it on my box below and I am more than willing to wander on your blog.

Summer Kisses,

Hippie Things to do in Canggu, Bali

If you are waves at heart, you should not skip Canggu on your on your Bali trip.

As you enter one of its streets, the fresh scent of fields welcomes you with calmness. You might think that you are almost heading to a mountaintop and getting farther from the sea. However, your first impression from the green rural road suddenly changes into a dramatic surfer’s hideaway. Located in South Bali, it is just about 20 minutes ride from Seminyak. A day or more is absolutely worthwhile to feel at ease with nature and to fulfill a hippie dream beside the sea. Moreover, this is a place where you can stay for weeks or months to learn surfing like a pro. Canggu associated with surfing; however, it has a lot to offer and I listed some of it here to guide you on your visit.
Surf all your days

Canggu = Waves

So, the reason why you would want to stay here is because of its waves plus its peppy atmosphere. The waves here are strong; therefore, if you are not that good in swimming you must take caution, as it is quite dangerous. There are lots of surfing schools and board rental shops on the seaside.
Head to the beach with your swimmies or surfing outfit then let the waves handle your day. Once in, you do not want to get out!

Joyride
With its peaceful road and neighborhood, it is so safe to drive here. Rent a bike for about 50,000- 60,000 Rupiah, then explore the village. Although developments have been made in this village, nature remains intact. Feel the breeze as you drive and do not afraid to get lost. It may seem far for one of your destinations but learn how to take detours. You will get on the innermost part of the village, wave with the locals, and have fun!

Be blessed in Tanah Lot

With the adventures that you made and planning to take, do not forget to experience Hindu blessings. Tanah Lot Temple is an ancient Hindu shrine and is one of the most important Landmarks of Bali. Grab the opportunity to get here since it is just a few minutes away from Canggu. With an entrance fee of 60,000 Rupiah, you would have the pleasure to enjoy its scenic view, unfold its sacred story, and go home with grace.

Dine and Jam
Are you hungry or just wanted to chill? Well, there are lots of trending cafés in Canggu. A heavy meal, a cup of coffee, or a bottle of beer, am sure you will love to stay and savor with each café’s ambiance and style.

Appreciate Murals
I was not expecting for this, but in Canggu, you will love to strike a pose with the creative murals. Who would not want to? Beachy, colorful, creative, and of course insta-worth it! Viola! It is perfect for your OOTD.

Catch a food
Hmmmm. As the saying goes, a good food comes from hard work. What is more delicious than eating the fresh fruits of your labor? Experience a  lifestyle.
Walk to Fisherman’s beach with your rod and go fishing! Catch some shrimps and more! Then if you are lucky, then you will have a well-deserved fresh and juicy seafood supper.

Sunset Chill
Relax your soul after a tiring day on the beautiful sunset of Canggu. The sound of the waves and the orange fading daylight would surely make you dramatic and at the same time grateful. Breathe deeply and nourish your soul as the sun starts to sleep, this would surely complete your day.

Relax in a Spa

Come on, everyone needs this! Your body needs a spa treatment to relax and rejuvenate. It must be a tiresome day under the sun but you will be revived when you try one of Canggu’s mindful Spa.

A romantic date

Take your special someone for a date on the Echo beach. The setting and the background would surely make you both fall in love.

Be athletic
I am sorry for I actually miss this one! I have found out that one of the world’s famous golf course is located here. Unfortunately, I was not able to get here. Well, if you are a gold enthusiast. You wouldn’t miss this one, right?

Do you have any plans about visiting Canggu someday or maybe you already have a Bali experience? Feel free to share your link or experiences in my box. I am much willing to hear your stories.

Summer Kisses,