Well-Being

Essential oils have been used for thousands of years and have benefits for physical and mental health and well-being. Now they are being used to offer relief to cancer patients. Photo: Getty Images

Explainer | Talking scents: aromatherapy’s benefits for mind and body

Aromatherapy using essential oils can relieve pain, lift spirits and soothe the digestive system, and is being used to treat side effects of cancer treatment.

25 Jun 2022 - 8:16AM
Fivelements Habitat at Times Square in July 2019. Photo: Jonathan Wong

Yoga centre to shut near world’s costliest shopping strip amid rent quibbles

Fivelements is the latest to pull back, as businesses grapple with how to price Hong Kong’s commercial real estate while consumption is yet to fully recover.

3 Sep 2021 - 9:21AM
Gabourey Sidibe and Kelly Osbourne show off their dramatic new looks after weight loss surgery. Photos: Getty Images; AP

5 celebrities who changed their lives with weight loss surgery

Golden Globe nominated actress Gabourey Sidibe lost 68kg and Donald Trump’s nemesis Rosie O’Donnell lost 23kg thanks to weight loss surgery – so were they glad they did it?

21 Mar 2021 - 7:00AM
Mindfulness isn't always easy

How to be mindful when you’re not in the mood

Practise mindfulness when you’re angry; you’ll be happier in the long run.

7 Feb 2021 - 12:16PM
Don't make things awkward!

Got a Valentine’s Day first date? Here are the questions to ask to make a second date more likely

Remember: it’s not an interview!

6 Feb 2021 - 8:00PM
Royalty-free stock photo ID: 636497852 Variety of infused detox water isolated on white, health concept

6 alternatives to soda that are better for your health

Make the most refreshing drinks out of ingredients you probably have at home.

21 Jul 2020 - 3:22PM
Royalty-free stock photo ID: 1074876758 Instagram Vegan Buddha Bowl with Pesto, Mushrooms and Veggies

6 easy steps to make perfect salad

Here are six steps to a refreshing, satisfying and beautiful meal.

21 Jul 2020 - 2:02PM
Illustration: SCMP

Hong Kong health care firms lead the way in Greater Bay Area integration

Health care is a vital part of Beijing’s goal to make the Greater Bay Area liveable for migrants. The inclusion of Hong Kong-based providers in the mainland’s insurance network is likely to spur cross-border flow of talent.

20 Jun 2020 - 1:01PM
Put fun things in your schedule, and the distance between you and your friends won't seem so bad

5 ways to improve your mental health during social distancing

Psychotherapist explains how social isolation, restrictions on activity, and limited contact with friends can increase the risk of depression

12 May 2020 - 8:34AM
Philosophical novels help use form questions about the world around us, and come to our own understanding

10 philosophical novels to read in times of uncertainty

If you’re self-isolating, in quarantine, or social distancing due to the coronavirus, you probably have a lot of questions. These books may help.

1 Apr 2020 - 8:00AM
Self-isolating can be draining, but there are ways to protect your mental health

6 tips for your mental health during self-isolation

The coronavirus has us self-quarantining, social distancing, and generally spending time alone. Here’s some advice to help you manage your emotional well-being.

28 Mar 2020 - 9:00AM
Winter Squash and Chicken Hot Pot

Keep calm and cook chicken soup while you self-isolate

This Japanese recipe is uber comforting, especially in these uncertain times

27 Mar 2020 - 8:00AM
8 reasons to exercise outdoors

8 reasons to exercise outdoors

You may spend most of your day indoors self-isolating due to the coronavirus situation, but if you can get outside to exercise, you'll reap benefits for your physical and mental health. 

8 May 2020 - 10:20AM
The effects of an all-nighter can last far beyond the morning after

Why you shouldn’t pull an all-nighter, and how to deal if you have no choice

Sleep deprivation can be as dangerous as drinking alcohol, and can have a serious effect on your memory, mood and diet

9 Mar 2020 - 8:00AM
Odds are your flight won't be this empty, so take these precautions to say safe.

How to stay healthy on flights amid the coronavirus epidemic

As Covid-19 continues to spread, here are 12 expert tips from medical professionals to help you avoid catching an infectious disease

7 Mar 2020 - 6:58PM
You can infect yourself with adenoviruses by touching infected surfaces and then rubbing your eyes.

Do I have conjunctivis?

You could have a highly contagious viral infection – here's when you need to call in sick.

20 Feb 2020 - 6:00PM
You can only make one first impression.

When dating and job hunting rules unite

Whether you are looking for a life partner or a new professional path, there are rules that apply in both areas that make you more likely to achieve your goal

20 Feb 2020 - 6:00AM
Whether you're loved-up or flying solo, February 14 can be a day to celebrate

Valentine’s Day date ideas, whatever your relationship status

5 Feb 2020 - 1:19PM
gross

10 gross habits that spread a virus

As the Wuhan coronavirus spreads far beyond China's borders to countries around the world, here are common tendencies to avoid.

5 Feb 2020 - 1:27PM
viral hands

The best way to protect against the coronavirus

There is no known cure for Covid-19, but this is one way to reduce the likelihood of infection.

25 Mar 2020 - 3:01PM