Borneo International Marathon 2013 (BIM) | My First Solo Experience

by Daniel Chiam 

Yesterday was my first time ever to experience the Borneo International Marathon event and no, not as a runner but as a videographer and also a photographer for ione2run.com to cover the event. Perhaps I'll join as a runner next time. Let's just hold that thought there.

Anyway, yesterday was my first time going solo on the field and also my first ever project ever since I came back to stay in Sabah.  Usually I will attend a running event with Kay who handles ione2run.com and he will usually do all the hard work while I'm just there to snap photos and update my own Instagram, haha.

Working solo was really challenging especially when I had to do both video and photos. Well, maybe things can be a lot easier if I actually plan out everything before hands but once a cowboy, always a cowboy. Just go there and do your thang partner...

I've learnt a few things yesterday and one, I'm not really good at multitasking. I soon found out that I have less footage to be use for the video highlights and most of the outcome of my photos was not really that impressive. I will try to work on my skills to switch between video and capturing photos, do the settings and all (perhaps I should just stick with auto mode when capturing photo, then it will be faster) and try to master the camera's focus for video.

Second, I need to be really discipline. I missed the full marathon flag off yesterday cause I snooze a bit then when I'm all ready to go, I had to use the toilet for some big break. Thus, when I reached the stadium, I can see all the runners ran passed my car.

Third, I need to learn to take care of my tools and equipment more carefully. No damage was done but I did lost a small mount that connect my tripod/monopod to the ball head stand that I have. I'm not sure they sell it separately but I do hate to spend more in my current situation.

Alright, without much more talking, do checkout the first video that I have ever edit and made on my own. Leave a comment, give it a thumbs up, share it with your friends and I will appreciate it much. Thank you all!

"Seize the day, Caper Diem"

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How To Choose The Best Type Of Massage

by Marcela De Vivo

Wondering what type of massage to get? Regardless of whether you are a massage newbie or a bodywork connoisseur, picking a massage from the increasingly lengthy menu of spa services can be daunting. From de-stressing to increasing flexibility, many spas offer a plethora of massage options with a variety of benefits to address any issue you wish.

Here’s a list of situations in which you would seek out the healing touch of bodywork and the type of massage that can help alleviate your specific condition:

If you’re feeling tense, then you should try a Swedish Massage:

The most recognizable and popular types of bodywork, Swedish massage is what most think of when discussing “massage.” Using long, gentle strokes, with medium to moderate pressure, and circular, kneading motions, Swedish massage can improve circulation and reduce stress-related tension. Some studies that this type of massage has a mild healing effect related to certain chronic stress-related illnesses. 

If you have sore muscles or are recovering from an injury, then you should try Deep-Tissue Massage:

Deep tissue massage uses much more pressure than the traditional Swedish massage, and targets the deep layers of muscle and muscle attachments. Ideal for tight or sore muscles, as a result of repetitive use injury, poor posture or recovery from an injury, deep tissue massage can feel slightly painful as the masseuse breaks down adhesions to relieve pain and restore movement.

This type of massage usually is used to relieve some particular ailment, rather than for relaxation. It is believed that toxins are released during deep tissue massage, which can bring on flu-like symptoms and some soreness the next day.

If you aren’t afraid of a little pain for a lot of gain, then you should try Thai Massage:

Thai massage is sometimes called “the lazy man’s yoga.” Unlike other forms of massage, you do not lay passively as your therapist kneads and strokes your body. In Thai massage, the masseuse works your body through a series of stretches, sometimes utilizing elbows and knees to push you deeper into a stretch.

While Thai massage is often considered painful and not necessarily relaxing during the session, the results are worth the “work out.” Not only will you feel more vigor, but it helps improve flexibility (over time) and range of motion. It can also help improve posture.

If you’re feeling stressed, then you should try Aromatherapy Massage:

Aromatherapy is a noted, effective stress-buster. Combined with massage, aromatherapy can reduce stress as well as tension throughout the body, and improve your overall mood.

Different scents have different healing qualities—some can help rejuvenate, others relax, and yet others to help balance. To relieve stress, cardamom, chamomile and lavender have been particularly helpful with people experiencing anxiety and stress.

Once you’ve chosen what scent you want, the oil is either slowly released throughout the room, or applied (with a base oil) to pressure points on your body through massage.

If you don’t like being touched, then try Reiki Massage:

A Japanese technique developed for stress reduction and relaxation, Reiki is a bodywork treatment that does not require extensive contact between the masseuse and the person receiving the treatment. Reiki uses energy and visualization to assist in the healing therapy.

The masseuse will place their hands on or over key points in the body, and channel their energy (via meditative state and visualization) into the client. Reiki balances the energy in problem areas, taking into account the body, aura and emotional state, to improve overall well-being. This treatment modality has been found to help reduce pain that stems from a physical ailment or a psychosomatic concern.

Whereas once there were only one or two massage options on the spa menu, these days, you can find practices from around the world at any New York, LA, or Miami Spa—or at your local massage practice. Refer to this list before the next time you visit your favorite spa, to find the treatment that best suits you.

Marcela De Vivo is a freelance writer, yoga enthusiast and mother of three. In addition to meditating and practising yoga each day, she personally enjoys Reiki massage as another way to relieve stress and tension. Follow her on Facebook and Twitter for more health-related tips. 





"Seize the day, Caper Diem"

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Pickle & Fig @ TTDI, Kuala Lumpur

by Daniel Chiam 

If you are looking for a nice and cozy place to chill that doesn't serve any heavy meal and do have some decent coffee to complete your chillax moment then you should really be checking out Pickle & Fig at TTDI KL.

My first impression about the place was that it is very spacious, minimalist and they don't have any book form menu for you to checkout what they have, cause they already have a huge gigantic green board on the wall with all of their menu written on it!

Remember, they do not serve heavy meal here and all they have is some delicious sandwiches, salad, soup, coffee and some other drinks on the menu. I was looking for some spaghetti or ribs on the menu cause I have no idea about the place at first xD 

Anyway, we ordered the Rotkraut Pastrami - which is their best seller, the Guacamole Chicken - it is one of their staff favorite, Moroccan Spiced Lamb Pocket - their Rahmadan special and as for drinks we ordered Caffe Latte and also the Avocado Dates - which is a favorite in their Foursquare tips.

I personally love love love the Rotkraut Pastrami - believe me, I have problem pronouncing it correctly but it tasted darn good! The taste of beef and the mozzarella cheese that's melts on it made me wish I don't have to share it with my foodie buddy that day, haha.  

Guacamole Chicken - I'm not a fan of it but my buddy love it. If you like avocado, a fan of avocado, an avocado activist then please do forgive my taste buds for liking it less when its served on bread. This is not a food review, just a personal preference, haha.

Moroccan Spiced Lamb Pocket - this is their Rahmadan special and I'm not sure if it will be permanent on their menu cause I really like the tenderness and how well they cook the lamb meat. Simply marvelous. I personally finds it has too much onion tho xD

Oh did I mentioned about their humongous wedges that came along with the sandwich?! It was ginormous and it was superbly cook. Love their wedges!

You must try their Avocado Dates smoothie! I had to give it a go after reading how so many people like it in Foursquare and its no regrets at all. It was smoothie smooth and the pieces of dates just add that perfect sweetness to the drink. I can drink a whole lot of it if it was cheaper, haha.

By the way, you need to pay upon order. After that, just wait for your orders to arrive and chill as long as you please with your book or friends! Free WiFi also provided, just asked their staff for the password or find it out in Foursquare!

No. 26, Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad 2, 

Taman Tun Dr Ismail 

60000 Kuala Lumpur

+603-28589960 

Open everyday from 10am onward!

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6 Best Retail Fashion Sites For Women

by Marcela De Vivo

There are plenty of shopping to go around online today, most of which is dominated by high profile sites like Amazon and EBay. While those are great retailers who can certainly offer some excellent products and services, they aren't uniquely crafted for women, those of whom are typically the more avid and enthusiastic online shoppers.

Yet, there are some great lesser-known online retailers that are specifically targeted towards a female audience, both in terms of their products and their style.

These sites (though not exclusively) center around clothing and carry products that are primarily marketed and geared towards women. Style and beauty makes up most of what these places have to offer, and, since they’re focused solely on the female consumer, they have a more diverse selection as well as a more personalized shopping experience.

1. Asos

Asos is the largest online-only retailer in the UK as they include over 50,000 different brands, including product lines from their own label. One nice feature of the site is that it allows users to create marketplaces for buying and selling their own products. The site also has a “Fashion Finder” feature, which allows customers to create and customize their own clothes and fashion videos. 

2. Net-A-Porter

This website has a recently launched a male counterpart, called Mr. Porter, and both sites are excellent places to find luxury clothing, shoes and accessories. In addition to offering a huge selection of designers to choose from, Net-A-Porter adds an equally substantial selection of handbags and accessories. As far as women’s luxury clothing goes, this site is simply one of the best.

3. Singer22

Singer22 is all about getting you the clothing and styles worn by today’s most well-known celebrities. In fact, you can even search their products by different names, like Kim Kardashian or Victoria Beckham. Find plenty of styles worn by your favorite celebs and view how they look on Singer22 models as well as us regular folk.

4. Zappos

More about the deals and low prices than anything else, Zappos prides themselves on providing the best and most affordable prices to go along with their designer clothing and footwear. Have questions? There’s a 24/7 live chat messenger that you can use for whatever questions you may have about their products and prices.  Zappos was known to have the most friendly and helpful customers service in the business.

5. Otteny

Otteny focuses mainly on understated luxury clothing as well as more contemporary pieces. You can actually pay Otteny to have their team assemble the perfect outfit for you, which can be great for certain special occasions where you might want to benefit from a little consulting before throwing together an outfit.

6. Shoptiques

Shoptiques essentially a collection of boutiques that allows users to shop locally if they’re near one of the locations supported by the site. Bigger cities, like San Francisco, New York and Miami are included. For one flat rate, you can have products from any of the boutiques shipped to you. Some people might prefer to actually go to these stores, but having them available online is a nice touch for the consumer and the retailer, as it gives small stores a chance to tap into the online community of shoppers.

Finding What Works for You

There are plenty of sites to choose from, so focus on what you like and select a place that best suits your shopping style (and budget). With so many options to choose from, you’re bound to find an online retailer that meets your criteria for inventory and convenience. Plus, it’s always nice to be able to shop for clothing from your living room.

So if you know any other retail fashion sites that might works for some of us here, please do share it down at the comments below. Merci beaucoup!

Marcela De Vivo is a freelance writer from Los Angeles whose writing covers travel, health and marketing. In addition to writing for Retail Packaging, she loves shopping online as it not only saves her time, but many of her favorite online retailers offer the best prices. 

"Seize the day, Caper Diem"

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[ENDED] Art of Khaki & Giveaway by Maxmayo.com

by Daniel Chiam

So one of our frequent and stylish guest blogger is doing a giveaway for all of you fashion lover out there. I took the liberty to share a bit about the giveaway here and if you would like to go straight to the point, you can get all the info HERE.

In collaboration with Dockers, Maxmayo.com is giving away RM250 Dockers voucher each for 3 lucky readers. You can buy yourself or for your lover one anything at Dockers stores with the vouchers. It's not just for the Art of Khaki collection.

The winners will be chosen randomly, and the winners will also be invited to an exclusive Dockers event in June 2013 as well. This is not only your chance to shop for FREE at Dockers but also to be their exclusively invited guest for one of their event. Now how cool is that?!

So what are you waiting for? Click away to Maxmayo.com and get the full details of how you can actually be in the running to win the vouchers and also the exclusive invites from Dockers!

"Seize the day, Caper Diem"

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