health & wellness

02 January 2021

2020 Reflections: Creating Rainbows in a Storm by Nicol David

2020 was a hard year where the pandemic halted all the plans! With everything being so uncertain, read how Nicol David find ways to regain her balance emotionally and mentally.

28 December 2020

Trust Your Gut: What does Your Poop Say about Your Health

Poop is an indicator of how healthy your diet is? It can tell you what you’re eating in excess of and what your diet is lacking. Here are some things your body is telling you through your poop.

10 October 2020

How to Take Care of Your Mental Health during the Pandemic

The recent COVID-19 pandemic has led to natural increases in stress, worry and anxiety for many people around the world. The uncertainty associated with the virus, the disruption to usual routines, and the economic instability can have significant impacts on your wellbeing and mental health. How can you better manage your mental health through these trying times? Here are some tips.

15 September 2020

Regrowing Your Food Scraps

Buying fresh produce can feel expensive especially if you’re purchasing fruits or vegetables in their offseasons but did you know that there are actually many types of vegetables out there that you can regrow from scraps without a huge garden? This can be a great money saver and can also help you reduce the amount of food waste that you generate in your home.

05 August 2020

15 Minutes Lunch Break Workout

Lunchtime workouts are a great option if you have trouble squeezing workouts into your busy schedule. Not only can you get a great workout done in a short period of time, you'll boost your energy for the rest of the day! Get some tips from our fitness advisor, Ain Ramli.

27 July 2020

Everything You Need To Know About The Danger Of Haze

Almost every year, a smoky haze blankets Southeast Asia, signaling the return of forest fires, pollution and a variety of health problems. For many in this region, grey skies and a lingering acrid smell are not unfamiliar, with some of the worst haze levels occurring in recent years. But what causes this phenomenon and how do we overcome it?

02 May 2020

Scents That Can Do Wonders For Your Wellbeing

Our sense of smell is probably the most underrated sense of all the five senses. Unlike touch or taste, scents are directly correlated to your memory and can also do amazing things for our mind and body. From stress to headache relief, certain aromas have a way of making an impact.

18 March 2020

Vaccination Keeps You Safe, Keeps Me Safe

Influenza, measles, and hepatitis B are just a few of the many diseases that can be prevented by a vaccine. Vaccination is one of the most critical and non-optional medical treatment that every person should obtain. Find out some vaccination facts from Dr Loo Chee Yean here.

02 November 2019

Taking Care Of Your Mental Health

The most important thing you can do for yourself is taking care of your health, and not just your physical health but also your mental health. Here are some quick and easy tips on how to take care of your mental health.

15 October 2019

The Stigma Of Mental Health In Malaysia

Mental health is one of the biggest ailments to afflict ordinary Malaysians but the stigma associated with it still prevalent among the mainstream. Let’s take a look at some reasons why the stigma continues to this day.

10 August 2018

Refresh, Recharge: 8 Healthy Hiking Destinations

Let’s explore some of Asia’s most scenic destinations that offer wellness of mind, body and spirit through both challenging and lesser-known trails.

How Do I Help and Support Someone With Mental Illness?

Caring for someone with mental health problems is a challenge that can be emotionally and physically demanding. Here is how to understand, recognise and help those suffering from mental illness.

5 Signs of Being Burnt Out

Have you been working exceptionally long hours, with massive workloads and putting enormous pressure on yourself? If yes, then you may be close to a burn out.

Finding the Sweet Spot of Work-Life Balance

The truth about work-life balance and how you can practice it in your life.

24 September 2018

Refresh, Recharge: 5 Wellness Retreats for a Rejuvenating Getaway

Do you often feel exhausted after travelling to a new place? Try a yoga retreat instead!

Sensory Play and How it Helps Your Child Grow

How does your child’s development benefit from sensory play? Why does it have to be messy?

How to Supercharge Your Good Habits

Small habits are the seeds to achieving big dreams. Here are actionable steps to getting started.

The 6 positive returns of love on your mind and body

Infected by the love-bug? Here’s how falling and being in love can actually be healthy for you.

5 Reasons AIA Vitality Is the Health Programme You’ll Enjoy

Need that extra bit of motivation to keep yourself healthy? AIA Vitality can help with that!

10 August 2017

Urbanites and 4 common Health Issues

Are there elevated health risks for city dwellers? What are you prone to experiencing and how can you lower your risks?

7 Ways Vacations Help You Stay Healthy

If you, like many people, feel a tinge of guilt for going on a vacation or taking extended leave from work, hold that thought. Plenty of research carried out in the past years have shown that taking a break improves a person’s wellbeing.

Is Living in The City Affecting Your Mental Health?

Could rapid urbanisation be a cause for the uptick in mental health issues Malaysians are facing?

6 [Actionable] Steps to a Healthier Lifestyle

So much effort, so little time. Ditch the fad diets in favour of actionable, realistic ways of getting healthier. Choose healthy with AIA Vitality

17 October 2017

Dementia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease

Dementia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease: What You Need to Know & How You Can Help

11 January 2020

The Water Debate: Warm vs Cold

Have you ever noticed a difference in how you feel when you drink cold versus warm water? There’s a good chance that you probably have a preference for one or the other – but which is better?

09 January 2020

Eat Healthy, Sleep Better

Getting a good night’s sleep is incredibly important for your overall health. While there are many ways to promote good sleep, your diet can also influence the quality of your sleep. Here’s a list of food and drinks that can help you sleep better.

12 April 2019

The Citrusy Wonders of Lime

Did you know that people have utilised the benefits of this citrus gem for thousands of years? Discover the amazing health benefits of lime!

Sweet Health Wonders of Bitter Melon

Just like its name suggest, bitter melons are one of the most bitter fruit-vegetables on this planet, but its health benefits are worth every chew.

Lemongrass, The Aromatic Healer

This tall tropical grass offers a whole lot more than just its subtle tangy lemony flavour and fragrance. Discover the many benefits of this Asian green wonder, lemongrass.

Sandwiches with an Asian Twist

Bored of the ordinary cheese, egg and mayo sandwiches? Add a little Asian fire and flavour with these quick and easy local twists.

The Cinnamon Cure

Deeply aromatic with a distinct warm and sweet taste, discover the many health benefits of this powerful spice.

Ingredient of the Month: Garlic

It may be small in size, but it’s big in benefits. Here’s how garlic helps to improve your health.

4 Health Benefits From The Fragrant Pandan

Beyond just an unassuming fragrant plant the pandan also packs a punch of goodness for you!

Coconut – A Tropical Super Fruit!

Coconut – the unassuming tropical fruit that packs a punch of health benefits with every single sip!

The Many Benefits of Turmeric

We take a look at the science behind Turmeric, an ancient spice of Asia.

Eat Healthy, Travel Happy: Thailand

How do you make healthy eating choices while traveling? Opt for these yummy and healthy meal options in Thailand.

Quick, Easy & Local: 6 Asian-Inspired Pasta Recipes

Why spend money buying imported ingredients to replicate recipes, when you can easily find local substitutes? Read more:

Localise Your Salad Ingredients!

Love salads, but want to incorporate more Malaysian fruits and vegetables? Here are some local salad ingredients for you to consider.

14 March 2017

Eat a rainbow of Fruits and Vegetables!

Feast on a plate of rainbow everyday. Not only is it beautiful to look at, it is also healthy for your body!

6 Reasons Why Asian Cuisine is Good For You

Asian cuisine and cooking help to promote better health and wellbeing. Here’s a few reasons why.

10 May 2018

Sweet & Savoury: Our Food Cravings & What They Mean

Why do we sometimes crave for a sweet treat or a savoury snack? It boils down to a normal habit, or your body needing more food. Read on!

22 August 2017

The Truth Behind Carbohydrates’ Bad Rap

One healthy eating “rule” we’ve always been taught is to avoid carbs, especially if you want to lose weight. How much truth is there to this?

20 July 2017

Festive Favourites: 10 Must-Have Raya Treats

Hari Raya is upon us once again! In anticipation of this much-awaited celebration, we highlight the top ten foods that can only mean Raya is here. What is your Raya must-have?

25 May 2017

From Sahur to Iftar: Healthy Eating Practices for the Fasting Month

During the holy month of Ramadan, Malaysian Muslims have a very narrow window of time to obtain enough energy and nutrients, as they abstain from all food and drink for over 12 hours a day.

16 April 2018

Eat Healthy with Local Superfoods

What superfoods can you get locally in Malaysia that are cheap and easily available?

17 March 2017

Why You Need to Snack Before & After Your Workout

You could be missing out on some major gains by working out on an empty stomach and not refueling after a workout.

12 January 2017

The Beginner’s Guide to Eating Clean

Clean eating is always a popular topic, and with a multitude of information available online, it’s easy to get confused between what’s good for you and what’s not.

6 Power Juices To Boost Your Immunity and Detox Your System

Whether you had one too many nights out and needed a quick juice cleanse, or you need some extra fruit & vegetable goodness in your diet, a glass of juice may be what you need.

06 February 2017

Good Fat & Bad Fat

If you answered any of the above, you are right! All those food has fat in them. Fat is present in your diet, whether you realise it or not. It can come in the small amounts used in your stir-fried vegetables, the shortening used in your store-bought cookies, and in the salmon on your sushi.

5 Smart Ways to Stay Motivated To Exercise

Another evening rolls around, and you’re contemplating between getting up for a run or continuing your binge watching marathon. You choose to stay in the comforts of your home.

31 July 2017

Morning vs Evening Workouts: Which is Better?

Morning workouts vs. evening workouts - which helps you get the most out of your exercise?

7 Rising Fitness Workouts of 2017

Have you made the resolution to get fit but dread the same old gym routine? Here are some exciting fitness trends to try in 2017. Aiming for a fit body in 2017? Here are 7 workout trends to try in 2017.

18 January 2017

Wearable Technology: Your New Gym Buddy

Wearable technology and fitness apps and devices meet in the form of fitness bands, designed to improve the quality of your health.

29 August 2017

Outdoor Activities That Put Fun in Exercising

Here are our three recommended outdoor activities that can help burn those calories while refreshing your senses.

17 July 2017

Easy Get Fit Ideas Without Leaving Home

Are you the sort that finds exercise a chore, especially with having to plan, wake up on time, leave work early, pack your gear and brave traffic to get to the gym? Wish you could find workouts to do at home using everyday household appliances? If you answered yes, then check out our list of low and high impact workouts you can do at home – even in your pajamas!

27 July 2020

A Ticking Time Bomb Around The World: DENGUE

According to the Health Ministry of Malaysia, Malaysia is projected to record a higher number of dengue cases in the coming months after the disease showed an upward trend recently. While there’s still much attention fixed on the Covid-19 pandemic, health officials are also warning the public to be alert and mindful of the increase in dengue cases.

18 April 2020

Good Hygiene Habits

While various measures can be implemented across the world to stop the spread of diseases, a lot of it also depends on us practicing good hygiene habits. Here are some other good hygiene habits that you can practice on a daily basis.

28 January 2019

How To Keep Your Spine Healthy

Backaches are commonly due to aging but this can be avoided if you start taking care of your spine today.

07 December 2018

Knowing Your Organs: The Heart

Your heart is an amazing organ, continuously pumping oxygen and nutrient-rich blood throughout your body to sustain life.

How to Care For Your Vision

Whether it’s behind the wheel, in school, at home or at work, good vision is essential. Don’t take your eyesight for granted. Here’s how to care for your eyes.

Knowing Your Organs: Mr. Tummy

We often to take our stomach for granted. Being the first stop in our digestive tract, the stomach is vital in keeping our digestive system healthy and happy.

Skin Care 101

The largest organ of your body is also a delicate one. Here’s how to care for your skin and manage common skin conditions.

Creating a Healthy Workplace For Yourself In 5 Steps

How does your workplace environment affect your health and overall well-being?

Losing Your Head? Don't – Hair Loss Is Managable

Hair loss affects both men and women and causes not only physical change but emotional distress, too. Here’s what’s causing hair loss.

ADHD: How to Help Your Child Get Ahead in Life

What exactly is ADHD, and how common is it? And what do you need to know if your child has been diagnosed?

28 August 2017

10 Hours of Digital Devices & Its Effects on You

Digital devices are so common in our lives that we may fail to notice the effect they have on our health.

11 September 2017

“Why Am I Always Hungry?” Understanding What Your Body is Really Saying

Do hunger pangs come creeping back quickly, despite eating a big meal two hours ago? Your body might be trying to tell you something.

26 July 2017

5 Things to do Today for a Healthier Tomorrow

Investing in your health while you are young and able is like investing in your finances early in life: you get a head start to achieving your goals, and the returns are compounded in the future.

26 June 2017

Fact vs Fiction: The Truth Behind Common Health Myths

As children, we’ve all grown up with stories passed down to us by our elders to help us lead better, healthier lives. But just how many of these old wives’ tales bear any factual accuracy? We take a look at some of the common tales we’ve been told and the truth behind them.

20 February 2017

Tips For Your First Trimester of Pregnancy

Congratulations, you're pregnant! Here are some of the changes your body will go through and which signs you should take note of:

28 February 2017

Tips For Your Second Trimester of Pregnancy

Welcome to your honeymoon period! Your second trimester from week 13 to week 28 is also known as the most comfortable stage in your pregnancy. Most symptoms from the first trimester would have disappeared at this time.

18 March 2017

Tips For Your Newborn

After 37 to 42 weeks of harboring a new life, you are ready to meet the baby growing inside you. It's a time of healing for your body and of learning and growing with baby. This phase starts from the moment of birth to the time baby is three months old.

6 Healthy Habits to Prevent Hypertension

With easy access to tasty treats, fancy dessert places, coffee houses and the added stress factor of working long hours, it is easy to fall into an unhealthy lifestyle. Every little uninformed choice may lead toward the development of a very silent illness, hypertension.

Kidney Failure: Symptoms, Causes & Ways to Prevent

As your kidney’s primary function is to filter blood, they are affected by the state of your blood and its contents. Most kidney failures are caused by damage to the blood vessels in the kidney. Among the factors that may damage the blood vessels are:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Your stomach discomfort or bloating after a heavy meal could be more than just gas – it could be a medical condition.

10 January 2017

Quit Smoking: 8 Things You Can Do to Stop

Quitting your smoking habit takes more than your desire to stop, it also requires support from your community. Succeed in your quest to stop smoking. Here are 8 steps to help you stop your cigarette habit.

Cervical Cancer: What You Need To Know

Cervical cancer affects women of all ages in Malaysia. How does HPV vaccination, PAP smear and regular check-ups work in early detection and prevention?

Breast Cancer

Cancer is a disease that doesn’t discriminate. According to Cancer Research Malaysia if you picked 19 women at random, chances are one person in the group will develop breast cancer at some point in their life.

Amazing Sleep Tips To Keep You Productive All Day

Meet Diandra, a 28-year old manager working for a consulting firm, mother to two cats and only sees her friends during birthdays.

30 October 2017

Skinny Jeans & Testicular Cancer

One in ten men reports discomfort when wearing skinny jeans. Is there a clear link between this experience and the occurrence of testicular cancer?

Can Too Much Exercise Be Bad For Health?

There is no doubt that exercise is good for your health, but take caution, there is the danger of excessive exercising which can do more harm than good to your body.

Ways to Keep Your Mind Sharp

Just like your body, your mind needs a regular workout to ensure it stays healthy as you age.

5 Signs of Being Burnt Out

Have you been working exceptionally long hours, with massive workloads and putting enormous pressure on yourself? If yes, then you may be close to a burn out.

24 September 2018

Refresh, Recharge: 5 Wellness Retreats for a Rejuvenating Getaway

Do you often feel exhausted after travelling to a new place? Try a yoga retreat instead!

29 October 2018

Managing Your Mental Health in 10 Steps

Find out how mental wellbeing is a result of a balanced mind, body and soul.

Is Living in The City Affecting Your Mental Health?

Could rapid urbanisation be a cause for the uptick in mental health issues Malaysians are facing?