#StayHome Smartphone Photography – Inspirations
A picture a day keeps the boredom at bay!
Join us on a daily photo-adventure as we seek out the most interesting things to photograph… in our homes! If we can do it, so can you! Re-encounter the things so familiar to you that they are overlooked or forgotten. New perspectives are everywhere, if we take the time to look for them. Stay home and stay safe always!
Stand a chance to win up to $4500 worth of prizes by taking a photo! Click here for details about the contest: #StayHome Smartphone Photography Contest
A picture a day keeps the boredom at bay!
Join us on a daily photo-adventure as we seek out the most interesting things to photograph… in our homes! If we can do it, so can you! Re-encounter the things so familiar to you that they are overlooked or forgotten. New perspectives are everywhere, if we take the time to look for them. Stay home and stay safe always!
Stand a chance to win up to $4500 worth of prizes by taking a photo! Click here for details about the contest: #StayHome Smartphone Photography Contest
Friday, 22nd May 2020
Positive or negative, our thoughts influence our perception of a situation. Throughout the past few weeks, we have experienced many new things and learnt valuable lessons. We have had the opportunity to take time and reflect on ourselves and what is important to us. As we prepare to slowly venture back into the familiar, yet different environment of our ‘normal’ lives, let us take the new perspectives we have gained with us. With these new perspectives, we can look at our world afresh and create the reality we dream of.
A big thank you to everyone who took part in our Smartphone Photography Contest! We hope that you were able to find a fresh perspective on something precious to you during this #StayHome period. Keep safe and healthy always!
Friday, 22nd May 2020
Some things in the world will always be out of our control, and that’s alright. Instead of fretting about what we have no power over, we should focus on what can be done in our given set of circumstances. There are many paths to the same goal. Not all are the same, and some are harder than others, but by tackling each challenge along the way, we will reach our destination. Even though things are uncertain now, there is always a path for us underneath our feet. One step at a time, we move forward!
Mental Wellness Tip: Have a To-Do list that you can tick off once your tasks are complete. This helps you pace yourself and is a tangible way of recording your progress!
Thursday, 21st May 2020
The importance of work-life balance has been highlighted during this remote working period as the lines between work-time and home-time are blurred. While planning out our daily schedules, we should also factor in some time for relaxation and fun! Relieving stress, improving connections with others and stimulating the mind and creativity are some of the benefits of taking time to unwind. Activities can be done both online and offline, and can include anyone and everyone!
Fun Tip: If you’re in need of inspiration, check out a list of games and activities here!
Wednesday, 20th May 2020
It’s easy to lose sight of ourselves if we focus on the perceptions of others. Cultivating our own skills and talents allows us to stand firm while accepting constructive criticism and feedback to constantly improve ourselves. This stay home period has given us a reprieve from the hustle of city life, and allowed us the option of upgrading ourselves through courses and enrichment. With that in mind, it’s still important to remember that our best teacher is life itself. As we grow and bloom, we take the lessons learnt in our journey with us as we continue on towards the sun.
Mental Wellness Tip: We might feel very anxious when worrying about what others think of us. However, this can further warp our own perceptions and lead to inaccurate conclusions. Take a step back and evaluate your situation, thinking through it rationally or letting it sit for some time before reviewing it from another angle.
Tuesday, 19th May 2020
As they say, that which you manifest is before you. Goal setting is an important part of mental health. It helps us to focus on achieving a target as well as to have something to aim for in both the short and long-term. When setting our goals, we need to remember to set realistic targets for ourselves. Setting goals that are out of reach can lead to a loss of motivation or confidence when we are unable to accomplish them.
Mental Wellness Tip: When setting goals, make them specific, measurable and meaningful! They should also be attainable, and come with a plan with the steps to reach them.
Monday, 18th May 2020
There are many mentions of a ‘new normal’ that will be in place once this Covid-19 crisis is over. Whether it be social distancing or remote working, things will not be exactly the same as they were pre-Covid. And this is not a bad thing! Covid has pushed us out into deep waters and out of our comfort zone, but it has also given us valuable experience, highlighting areas which need improvement, and pushing us to make the changes. The world might feel different and a little unfamiliar after Covid, but it is still the world we live in, and we will all have a part to play in shaping it.
Mental Wellness Tip: If you feel as though the whole situation is too overwhelming and foreign, take small steps at a time. Gradually expand your comfort zone, and keep objectivity in each setting.
Friday, 15th May 2020
Just as it can provide new depth to photographs, reflection allows us to look deep within ourselves. With each experience we have, there are lessons to be learnt, and new perspectives to be found. This circuit breaker period has definitely taught us many unexpected but valuable lessons. As we prepare to go back to our normal lifestyles, we can apply what we have learnt to help us be more resilient and adaptable even in our working environments.
Smartphone Photography Tip: PS. If you’d like to learn how to take the best smartphone photographs, have a listen to our Webinar here! Our speaker is Mr Lim Leong Kiat, Honorary Secretary at the Photographic Society of Singapore. Don’t forget to submit your photographs for our photo contest!
Thursday, 14th May 2020
For majority of us, home is where we feel the most secure. Its familiar walls and rooms cocoon us away from the unpredictable world outside. This is especially true with Covid-19, as our homes physically prevent the transmission of the disease between members of our community. The sense of safety this provides is especially important to reduce anxiety and stress in those who are fearful about being infected. Within our homes, providing emotional security for one another is up to each of us, as we cultivate a loving, accepting environment. Feeling safe and secure is important for the mental wellbeing of all.
Mental Wellness Tip: Feeling safe also involves feeling assured about yourself. Stay connected with people who love and support you, and can provide reassurance when you are in doubt.
Wednesday, 13th May 2020
With our busy schedules, it is easy to get caught up in work, and neglect other aspects of our lives. Parents with young children might find that they do not spend as much time with them as they would like, and working adults sometimes struggle to juggle family time with work commitments. This circuit breaker period has provided a unique situation where close contact with our families is mandatory. Take this opportunity to recalibrate your emotions and thoughts, prioritising where necessary. Invest time into strengthening or renewing relationships, and even fostering new ones!
Mental Wellness Tip: Some conflicts are inevitable when staying at home together 24/7. Instead of dwelling on them, focus instead of positive parts of the relationship and how to enhance them. Minimize hostility shown to each other by reaching a reasonable compromise where possible.
Tuesday, 12th May 2020
Time cannot be bought. Once gone, it does not come back. We always seem to have either too much or too little time on our hands, and find it hard to strike a balance to get ‘just enough’ time for everything we want to do. Although it is quite impossible to do everything we want to do in a single day, we can do everything we plan to do by setting reasonable goals for ourselves. Goals provide motivation for us to complete tasks and activities, to make the most of the precious time given to us!
Timely Tip: To better manage your time, have a daily To-Do List, with time limits and time checks to ensure that you are on schedule. Prioritise your tasks and focus on each on before moving on to the next.
Monday, 11th May 2020
The only constant in our world is change. Whether we like it or not, learning is a lifelong process, and embracing it allows us to live our best lives. With the technology we have today, learning has never been more accessible. Whether you are a visual, audio, reading/writing or kinesthetic learner, there are plenty of resources available to cater to your style of learning. Learning boosts self-confidence, and helps us be more capable of dealing with the many surprises life throws at us. There is no doubt that learning and its effects go far beyond our classrooms, virtual or otherwise.
Health Tip: Learning stimulates cognitive activity, which can help delay symptoms of Alzheimer’s, offset cognitive decline and improve memory. Other than physical benefits, learning also has improves soft skills!
Inspired? Submit your #StayHome Smartphone photos to us now!
Contest Ends In…
Contest Ends in…
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Deadline: 26 May 2020, 2359
Friday, 8th May 2020
Singapore is starting to cautiously open up again, and it seems that there is a positive end in sight to the circuit breaker period at last. With so much uncertainty going around, little concrete actions towards lifting the measures bring hope to many of us. As individuals, we can also take small steps each day to prepare to adapt back into our pre-Covid working environments. Things that we do now, such as mental exercises and bonding activities, will help make as more resilient and be able to better cope with the different stressors during and after this period.
Health Tip: For a healthy body and mind, why not try your hand at some Taichi with Taichi Master Jennifer Chung!
Wednesday, 6th May 2020
This is home, truly! It felt like a ‘Stay Home’ version of National Day when the nationwide Sing Together session was broadcast on media channels last week. As cheers rang out across the country as home videos played, it was a great reminder that we are all in this as one nation. Alone we can only do a little, but together we can do so much. Let us continue supporting each other where we can!
Musical Tip: If you missed it, here’s the collage of all the Sing Together videos! Have a listen to the choral version as well!
Tuesday, 5th May 2020
If you feel the air getting stuffy from having stayed indoors for too long, open your windows and air out your rooms for some fresh air! Who knows, you might be treated to a lovely view by mother nature. Getting a few minutes of Vitamin D from the sun also helps to boost your mood! If you’re feeling restless, trying channeling your energy into something productive, like static exercises. This physical exercise is a form of self-care and will help you keep both physically and mentally fit!
Health Tip: Just 15 minutes of exercise a day has demonstrated to benefit the heart and increase life expectancy compared to a sedentary lifestyle!
Monday, 4th May 2020
After a month of the circuit breaker measures, our once unfamiliar daily routines are starting to feel more comfortable by the day. This ‘new normal’ we experience is possible because of us adapting to the situation and making the most of it. Looking on the bright side of things, this period is an opportunity for us to re-balance our minds and reflect on our priorities in life. We are adaptable and resilient beings, and we will get through this together. One more month to go!
Mental Wellness Tip: To reduce stress and anxiety, identify things that are within your power to do, and let go of those that are out of your control. For example, we have no control over when Covid-19 will end, but we can practice proper social distancing.
Tuesday, 28th April 2020
It’s easy for the days to become mundane if they lack in variety! Although keeping to a regular schedule is healthy, add in some special activities to spice up your time at home! If you’re feeling overwhelmed and need some quiet time and relaxation, why not take your mind off matters with some art and craft? From colouring activities to creating 3D sculptures, everyone can participate! The process of creating art stimulates the release of dopamine in the brain, which makes us feel happier.
Colourful Tip: If you’ve got no idea how to start and need some guidance, check out this blog with colouring techniques and videos!
Monday, 27th April 2020
Very often, the fears in our minds are about things in the future and not things that are happening in the present. The suspense of not knowing what might happen often keeps us up at night, with nagging thoughts at the back of our minds. This type of fear is called anxiety. Letting anxiety take over our thoughts isn’t healthy, and can lead to problems sleeping, focusing and daily functioning. Although we can’t predict what the future holds, we can influence it with our actions each day. Focus on doing something positive today, so that tomorrow might just be that much better.
Health Tip: Exercising has shown to be good for diverting attention, decreasing muscle tension and regulating our thoughts and emotions. Aerobic exercise is particularly effective, so try an online exercise workout or dance class. Even giving the floor a good mop down works too!
Friday, 24th April 2020
Everyone faces different challenges in our lives, and we all have our own ways of overcoming them. What may be a challenge to one person might seem like a trivial matter to another. Let’s keep in mind to show empathy to those who are facing difficult situations around us, and lend a listening ear if needed. It takes courage to step into unknown and unfamiliar situations, and this is always made easier with a helping hand.
Mental Wellness Tip: Take your mind off work and enjoy your weekend with these 7 Things to Do at Home!
Thursday, 23rd April 2020
Other than a good skincare routine, a “glowing” complexion can also be obtained with optimism and positivity! These two things are vital for effective stress management. Reducing stress is associated with many health benefits, such as better heart health, increased life span, stronger immunity and lower levels of distress. Positive thinking doesn’t mean ignoring the less pleasant situations in life. Instead, it means approaching the unpleasant situations in a positive and productive way.
Mental Wellness Tip: Here are some ways to swap negative self-talk for a healthy dose of positive thinking!
Wednesday, 22nd April 2020
With the circuit breaker measures now extended till 1st June, the disruptions might have brought many of us disappointment or inconvenience. Although we might feel disheartened now, we can count ourselves lucky in that, for most of us, this will only be a temporary measure. Just as a shadow cannot be fully erased, it is perfectly human for us to feel frustrated or upset at times. Talk to your family or friends to get these emotions off your chest, and share your concerns with those who care for you. Sunshine can be found in many forms, from a smile to a phone call. Who knows, you could be someone’s sunshine today!
Mental Wellness Tip: If you feel lost or confused because of the blurring lines between work and life, create a practical schedule you can stick to. This helps you prioritise your activities, accomplish your tasks, and achieve the goals you set for yourself. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started!
Tuesday, 21st April 2020
Looking back at December 2019, most of us would never have imagined that in 4 months time, the world would be in lockdown because of a pandemic. Each chapter of 2020 has opened with a new challenge, and though we might not be through with this current one yet, one thing is for sure. This too, shall pass. As long as we have hope and continue spreading it to others, we will see this chapter through to the end. Keeping all the experiences and lessons learnt with us, we can then confidently set-off into the next chapter of our lives.
Mental Wellness Tip: The online “infodemic” about Covid-19 from unverified sources can cause unnecessary worry and anxiety. Remember, nothing is more contagious than fear. Try spreading positive stories and experiences with your social circle and colleagues instead!
Monday, 20th April 2020
Week 3 of the circuit breaker period is here, sans McDonalds. But have no fear! There are many other food choices to keep busy with, including whipping up your own meals. Once done, why not take some time to exercise those muscles by exploring your home again with new eyes. Try finding one thing in your house that you didn’t realize was there! Staying curious not only stimulates your brain activity, but also helps you to keep the boredom away.
Curious Tip: Did you know that if you google “Curiosity”, the first result that comes up is NASA’s Curiosity Rover on Mars? (Nope, neither did I). Now that you do, why not explore some Martian surfaces to really expand your horizons?
Friday, 17th April 2020
Fridays feel a little different when you’re already at home, but it’s time to relax and get ready for the weekend anyway! Although Friday nights out will probably be Friday nights in for a while, there’s always joy to be found in our own homes. Just as a child finds happiness in having a tea party with their stuffed animals, we can all get creative with things to do from the comfort of home. Build a pillow fort, go on a treasure hunt or camp out in your living room. Adventure awaits!
Health Tip: For children, active playing (eg. with toys, blocks or dolls) stimulates their creativity and develops their imagination, problem-solving and decision-making skills. Too much of passive entertainment (eg. TV and mobile games) can cause them to be too sedentary, leading to future health problems.
Thursday, 16th April 2020
Staying home brings with it a new set of colleagues: our animal friends! Although these colleagues seem to have no interest in work and would rather laze around in the sun or distract you from your laptop, their presence is comforting indeed. Try taking short breaks to hang out with your colleagues if you feel stressed out or down. Although having chats is mostly a one-way affair, it can help take your mind off any worries troubling you!
Health Tip: Did you know that petting your cat or dog for just 10 to 15 minutes has been shown to reduce stress? Read more about that here! (Unfortunately the same correlation has not been extended to plushies and stuffed toys)
Wednesday, 15th April 2020
Covid-19 has shaken the whole world. Even Antarctica, the only continent still free from the virus, has seen major disruptions in accessibility for the researchers and people stationed there. In the face of this adversary that does not discriminate, we are reminded that, wherever we come from and whoever we are, we are all only human. This fight against Covid-19 will take all of us together to defeat, whether we are healthcare professionals, researchers, a person working from home, or a listening ear for someone who needs it.
Mental Wellness Tip: If you feel anxious or overwhelmed by the non-stop news about Covid-19, try to stop yourself from checking social media or news updates constantly. Instead, choose one or two specific times a day to update yourself with news from trustworthy sources.
Tuesday, 14th April 2020
One week into staying at home full-time makes you realize that pasta can be artistic too. After its contribution to your piece of art, it can then be cooked into a yummy meal for yourself and your family to enjoy! Do keep in mind that pasta is high in carbohydrates, so have it in moderation to avoid packing on the calories!
Health Tip: Opt for whole-grain pasta instead, as it has higher fiber content and is lower in calories. Swap those high-fat cream sauces or cheese for a drizzle of olive oil and fresh vegetables to get that extra bit of health!
Monday, 13th April 2020
A cup of coffee or tea is always refreshing, especially to kickstart the work week. Working from home can be distracting because of the change in environment (and proximity of your bed). Take short breaks to refresh yourself before you head back to your home office!
Health Tip: Check out the benefits of coffee and tea in our blog post here!
Friday, 10th April 2020
Spending all our time at home gives us the opportunity to talk to and interact with our loved ones. Although being together full-time can become stressful, especially if we are juggling multiple roles, there are always avenues of support. Don’t be afraid to reach out if you need help, we will all get through this together!
Mental Wellness Tip: Stay connected with your friends and colleagues through digital means, such as video-calls and tele-conferences. Organise a virtual gathering or workout session to unwind!
#StayHomeForSG
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From 9 April to 26 May, join in our #StayHome Smartphone Photography Contest for your chance to win up to $4500 worth of prizes!
Let’s all #StayHome together! Click here for details about the contest: #StayHome Smartphone Photography Contest
