A Book Review of Janelle Ivory's How to Love Better, Championing Relationships

 

Janelle Ivory's "How to Love Better" is a profound exploration of the complexities of love, relationships, and self-acceptance. This book serves as a vital resource for individuals seeking to enhance their understanding of emotional connections. Ivory's writing is characterized by an engaging narrative style that combines personal anecdotes with practical advice, making it accessible to a wide audience. The central theme revolves around the idea that love begins with oneself, encouraging readers to cultivate self-love as a foundation for healthy relationships.

Janelle Ivory's How to Love Better is a heartfelt and insightful guide to cultivating deeper, more fulfilling relationships. Drawing from her personal experiences and biblical wisdom, Ivory offers practical advice and spiritual insights to help readers navigate the complexities of love.

One of the book's strengths lies in its ability to resonate with readers on a personal level. Ivory's vulnerability and honesty create a sense of connection, making her insights feel both relatable and empowering. She addresses a wide range of topics, from overcoming fear and insecurity to building trust and communication skills.

Ivory's Christian perspective provides a solid foundation for her teachings. She emphasizes the importance of love as a reflection of God's love and encourages readers to seek guidance and strength from their faith. However, the book is not overly religious, and its principles can be applied by people of all faiths or none.

How to Love Better is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their romantic, familial, or platonic relationships. This book inspires and challenges readers to love more deeply and authentically. While it may not offer groundbreaking new ideas, it provides a refreshing and practical approach to cultivating healthier connections.

One notable aspect of "How to Love" is its emphasis on emotional intelligence. Ivory skillfully integrates psychological concepts into her discussions, allowing readers to comprehend the intricacies of human emotions and how they impact interpersonal dynamics. By providing actionable strategies for improving communication skills and fostering empathy, the book empowers readers to navigate their relationships more effectively. 

Janelle Ivory's "How to Love" stands out as an essential read for anyone interested in enhancing their relational skills and understanding love on a deeper level. Its blend of theoretical insights and practical guidance makes it both informative and relatable. As such, this book not only contributes significantly to contemporary literature on love but also serves as a valuable tool for personal development.

Overall, How to Love Better is a well-written and thought-provoking book that offers valuable insights into the art of loving. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their relationships and live a more fulfilling life.

For details on how to get a copy of this book, visit its page on Amazon. 

Disclaimer: I am not compensated for this post. Opinions expressed are my own. 

Wake-up call: Do you have daytime sleepiness?

 

It’s the start of a new day: You’ve had your morning shower and a hot cup of coffee. A jam-packed schedule awaits you. There’s just one hitch: You can’t keep your eyes open and would rather crawl back in bed and spend the rest of the day catching up on your zzzzs.

“When you’re feeling sleepy in the morning, it’s assumed that you haven’t had the recommended eight hours of sleep the night before,” says Maria Patricia Ann T. Puno, MD, Sleep Medicine Specialist from Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed). “Maybe you were up late working, partying, or binge-watching your latest K-Drama obsession. Perhaps you’re getting over jet lag or are looking after a newborn that needs your constant attention.”

Having the right quantity of good-quality sleep is important to stave off excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS). But what if you did sleep for eight or more hours yet still feel it isn’t enough? And what if it happens often enough that it affects your ability to handle your responsibilities at home and on the job? It’s called hypersomnia, according to MakatiMed. Defined by the International Classification of Sleep Disorders as “the inability to stay awake and alert during the major waking episodes of the day, resulting in unintended lapses into drowsiness or sleep,” hypersomnia is identified by several symptoms.

“Patients with hypersomnia display constant sleepiness throughout the day, difficulty staying up despite having adequate hours of sleep, irritability, lack of energy and appetite,” notes Dr. Puno. “Moreover, they don’t benefit from power naps and remain sluggish even after a bit of shut-eye.”

Identifying and treating the underlying causes of excessive sleepiness is key to the management of hypersomnia.

“When taken during the day, antihistamines, anti-epileptic drugs, antipsychotic medications, and muscle relaxants can induce sleepiness,” reveals Dr. Puno. “Medical conditions like head trauma, hypothyroidism, Parkinson’s disease, a tumor, sleep apnea, and mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder have also been known to make you sleepy throughout the day.”

But hypersomnia can be a condition in itself, too, the result of genetics or of rare sleep disorders. “Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by the sudden urge to sleep deeply. It’s said to be caused by a lack of orexin, a neurotransmitter that helps you stay awake,” explains Dr. Puno. “Kleine- Levin Syndrome is even rarer. Besides exhibiting chronic daytime sleepiness, patients with this condition also show varying degrees of behavioral and cognitive disturbances.” Kleine-Levin Syndrome’s cause is unknown, though it’s believed that illness or injury to the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that manages our sleep, is behind it.

With a proper diagnosis, hypersomnia can be treated with antidepressants, stimulants, and medications designed specifically for narcolepsy. “If you are currently taking prescription drugs whose side effect includes drowsiness, ask your primary physician if it’s possible to lower the dose or find an alternative,” shares Dr. Puno.

Simple lifestyle changes can also keep you awake when you need to be. “For daytime sleepiness caused by disruptions before bedtime, try turning in earlier than usual so you can clock longer hours at night,” says Dr. Puno. “Daily 20-minute exercise can improve the quality of your sleep; so can relaxation techniques like meditation. Take stimulants like coffee, but not too much to affect your sleeping at night. And a 15-30 nap in the middle of the day can do wonders to sharpen your mind and lift your spirits.”

For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.88888 999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph. Follow @IamMakatiMed on Facebook and Twitter.

Mang Inasal wins Hall of Fame at Franchising Excellence Awards

 

Mang Inasal has been inducted into the prestigious Hall of Fame at the recent Franchise Excellence Awards (FEA), after winning the Best Marketing Campaign Award in the Large-Scale Food Business category. 

The FEA’s Best Marketing Campaign Award honors franchise companies that have executed successful and high-impact marketing programs that significantly contribute to the company’s growth while advancing the franchising industry as a whole. This marks Mang Inasal’s second Hall of Fame recognition, following its 2017 induction for the Outstanding Filipino Franchise Award.

“This Hall of Fame award is a validation of our mission to create meaningful marketing campaigns that not only engage our customers but also contribute to the growth and innovation of the franchising industry,” said Mang Inasal Marketing Head Allan C. Tan. “It encourages us to continue striving for excellence, ensuring that Mang Inasal remains a brand that deeply resonates with Filipinos everywhere.”

Mang Inasal also made waves as a finalist in the PANAta Brand Effectiveness Awards 2024, where it was nominated in three categories: Brand Team of the Year (Digital and PR Group), Brand Effectiveness for Customer Experience (#MangInasalAt20: The 20th Anniversary of Mang Inasal), and Brand Effectiveness for Best Use of Digital Marketing (Mang Inasal Nation).

Want more Mang Inasal exclusives NOW? Visit www.manginasal.ph for the latest news, https://manginasaldelivery.com.ph for delivery deals, and follow Mang Inasal on social media for more Ihaw-Sarap and Unli-Saya updates!

Seoul Solaire: A Chimac Festival to Remember

 

Solaire Chimac Festival 2024

Have you ever dreamt of experiencing the vibrant flavors of South Korea without leaving the Philippines? If so, then the recent Chimac Festival at Solaire Resort & Casino was a dream come true. My husband and I had the privilege of attending this culinary extravaganza, and it was an unforgettable experience.

Solaire Chimac Festival 2024

Solaire Resort & Casino once again delivered a memorable experience with their recent Chimac Festival. As a frequent visitor to the luxurious establishment, I was excited to attend this event with my husband. The festival offered a perfect blend of delicious food, live music, and exciting activities.

For those unfamiliar with the term, "chimac" is a popular South Korean dish that combines crispy fried chicken and refreshing beer. It's a beloved comfort food that's perfect for sharing with friends and family.

We were so excited for the Chimac Festival and we were given a wrist tag upon entry.

The Solaire Chimac Festival was indeed a feast for the senses. The moment we stepped into the event venue, we were greeted by a vibrant atmosphere filled with the aroma of Korean foods and the lively sounds of Korean music.

L-R: Azrael Coladilla, Michael Jason Ramos, Purple Plum Fairy and Aaron Numu.

 

Guests were also given the chance to wear the Korean national costume, the hanbok. Here Az and Aaron tried wearing them. 

Guests enjoyed a variety of Korean foods

Chicken & gimbap

The festival offered a wide range of chimac variations, from classic fried chicken and beer to more adventurous options like spicy chicken, popular Korean streetfoods like Tteokbokki (Spicy rice cakes stir-fried in a sweet and spicy sauce); Gimbap (Rice and vegetable rolls wrapped in seaweed); Dak gangjeong (Sweet and crispy fried chicken); Jeon: Savory pancakes made with various ingredients like seafood, vegetables, or meat.; Eomuk (Fish cakes served in broth); Mandu (Korean dumplings filled with meat or vegetables); Bindaetteok (Savory pancakes made with mung bean sprouts, kimchi, and other ingredients); Japchae: Stir-fried glass noodles with vegetables and meat; Sundubu Jjigae: Soft tofu stew with seafood or meat. Ramyeon: Instant noodles with a spicy and flavorful broth and of course, beer and soju (in my case, I loved Soju Milky!)

Favorite odeng (fish cake)

The staff were eager to help you at the Korean noodle station

My husband Jason and Purple Pum Fairy

The Chimac Festival also highlights this Korean dish, consisting of crispy fried chicken and a refreshing beer, which is a popular combination loved by many. Solaire's version did not disappoint. The chicken was perfectly cooked, with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. The beer selection was extensive, catering to various tastes.

Spicy and non spicy chicken variants were available

Banchan

Korean sausage and fish cakes skewers

For those seeking more active entertainment, the festival offered a variety of activities. Beer pong contests and Korean dance competitions kept the attendees engaged and excited. The prizes for these contests were overnight accommodation at Solaire, adding to the excitement and competitiveness.

Guest DJs liven up the program

There were games from Jinro Soju

Korean DJs gave us awesome groove that night

The atmosphere was electric as the talented band The Itchyworms took the stage. Their energetic performance kept the crowd entertained with their popular hits. The band's music perfectly complemented the festive vibe of the event.

Jugs Jugueta of The Itchyworms provided some entertainment

Jugs Jugueta plays with much energy for the night

Azrael Coladilla, Moi, Jowell, Jason and Aaron.

The Solaire Chimac Festival was an incredible experience that we'll never forget. The delicious food, vibrant atmosphere, and cultural performances made for a truly unforgettable night. If you have the opportunity to attend the next festival, we highly recommend it.

Moi and husband Jason

Jason and I tried wearing Hanbok too.

Azrael, Moi, Jason, Ms. Lianne of Solaire and Eli Villagonzalo

Overall, our experience at Solaire's Chimac Festival was fantastic. The combination of delicious food, great music, and exciting activities made for a memorable evening. Solaire once again proved why it is one of the top destinations for entertainment and luxury in the Philippines.

Disclaimer: I am not compensated for this post. Opinions expressed are my own. Photo credits: Some photos used are from Aaron Numu.

The Manila Hotel Awarded as Philippines’ Leading Hotel at the 31st World Travel Awards

 

The Manila Hotel is honored to be recognized as the Philippines’ Leading Hotel at the World Travel Awards 2024. This esteemed accolade reaffirms the Grand Dame’s unwavering commitment to providing world-class Filipino hospitality to guests from around the globe. Often regarded as the “Oscars of the travel industry,” the World Travel Awards celebrate excellence in tourism and hospitality.

“We are thankful to the World Travel Awards for this recognition,” said The Manila Hotel president Atty. Jose D. Lina, Jr. “To our cherished guests and patrons, this victory is yours as much as it is ours. Your continued support and loyalty inspire us to keep delivering the exceptional service you’ve come to love. We also extend our congratulations to the Department of Tourism for their achievement in winning Asia’s Leading Marketing Campaign award for the ‘Love the Philippines’ campaign. We also commend DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco for being recognized with the Transformational Leadership in Tourism Governance award, underscoring her outstanding contributions to Philippine tourism. Mabuhay ang industriya ng turismo ng Pilipinas!”

The Manila Hotel’s vice president for sales and marketing Marvin Kim Tan also stated, “We are delighted to receive this recognition from the World Travel Awards. This award reflects the dedication and passion of our team, whose commitment to excellence ensures that every guest experience the heart of the Filipino hospitality. It celebrates not just our rich heritage but the legacy we continue to build.”

As an iconic national heritage institution, The Manila Hotel offers guests a blend of historical significance and modern amenities, while providing world-class accommodations, dining, wellness, and recreational services.

Fixifoot PH: A Review of Custom Orthotic Insoles

 

Fixifoot PH is a popular choice for those seeking relief from foot pain and discomfort in the Philippines. This company specializes in custom-made orthotic insoles designed to address various foot conditions, including flat feet, plantar faciitis, and overpronation.

Key Features and benefits

• Customized fit: Fixifoot’s insoles are tailored to each individual’s unique foot structure, ensuring optimal support and comfort.
• Pain Relief: Many customers report significant relief from foot pain, including heel pain, arch pain, and discomfort associated with standing or walking for extended periods.
• Improved posture: By correcting foot alignment, Fixifoot insoles can help improve overall posture and reduce strain on the back and knees.
• Enhances Performance: Athletes and individuals engaged in physically demanding activities often find that Fixifoot insoles improve their performance and reduce the risk of injuries. 

Fixifoot PH offers a promising solutions for those seeking relief from foot pain and discomfort. Their customized orthotic insoles have the potential to improve feet alignments, reduce strain on the body, and enhance overall well-being. If you’re experiencing foot problems, it’s worth considering Fixifoot PH as a possible solution. Please note that I am no foot expert so it’s still best to seek or consult a healthcare professional as individual reviews may vary. 

Purple Plum Fairy at Fixifoot PH booth

Disclaimer: I am not compensated for this post. Opinions expressed are based on my own experience. 

HOW PIONEER CINEMALAYA FILMMAKERS STARTED AND PERSISTED

 

Coreen "Monster" Jimenez

To date, Cinemalaya has nurtured over 200 Filipino filmmakers and showcased over 1,000 of their works, including full-feature films, shorts, documentaries, Filipino film classics, and art films.

The country’s biggest and pioneering independent film festival has been relentless in developing and supporting the production of independent Filipino films since it was founded in 2005, bringing new narratives that embody the ever-evolving landscape of Filipino cinema each year.

Shortly after celebrating its 20th year, the Cinemalaya has once again welcomed another batch of filmmakers for their turn in articulating and freely interpreting the Filipino experience with fresh insight and artistic integrity. With two decades under its belt and more than a handful of filmmakers bolstered to success, we look back to some of the pioneers who started the tradition.

Mario Cornejo

“I remember some of that time very clearly. I remember the sense of freedom, the sense of fun,” began 2005 Cinemalaya director Mario Cornejo. “At that time, nobody knew what Cinemalaya was, so when they said they would give a grant to make a film, all we could think of was ‘okay. Let’s make a film’. There were no stakes, kunbaga, very low stakes. There were no expectations. It felt very free.”

Cornejo is a director for movies, television shows and television commercials. He is currently an in-house director for television commercials at Film Experts Inc. He debuted his full-length film Big Time, a comedy-drama that follows the misadventures of two small-time criminals, Danny and Jonas, who run into a series of unforeseen events when they attempt to move into big time crime. 

Clodualdo del Mundo Jr.

The film won the first Balanghai trophy for Best Screenplay.

“It was super fun for us not because of the awards we received, but because it was a good excuse to thank people who were part of the film,” shared Coreen “Monster” Jimenez, who was Big Time’s co-writer and producer. “Everybody was super cooperative because people were just trying things out. It felt like a playground.”

Jimenez is a producer, filmmaker, mentor and documentary advocate. She is the managing director of This Side Up, a media company based in Manila, and the co-founder of the Filipino Documentary Society, which organized the biggest documentary fest in the Philippines. She is currently in pre-production for another collaboration with Cornejo for the film, My Neighbor the Gangster.

For distinguished screenwriter Cloudualdo del Mundo Jr., his first exposure to full-length filmmaking was through the first ever Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival. He debuted with Pepot Artista, a comedy-drama film about a ten-year-old boy whose dream is to become a movie star. The film explores the penchant of Pinoys for entertainment in the midst of serious social problems.

Del Mundo is an esteemed figure in the Filipino film industry. He is a multi-awarded writer, director, and producer. He is also the professor emeritus of the Department of Communication in De La Salle University. Some of his recent accolades include being a 2020 Gawad CCP Para sa Sining Awardee and a recipient of the Parangal ng Sining Lifetime Achievement Award.

“Sinulat ko ‘yung screenplay ng Pepot Artista noong 1970. Nasa graduate school ako nun, may kinuha akong tutorial course tungkol sa scriptwriting,” shared del Mundo. “Natatandaan ko si Ishmael Bernal, pinuntahan pa ako sa bahay. Nagtatanong kung maisasapelikula ba ‘yung script ko.”

But it was only in 2005 when Pepot Artista came to life at Cinemalaya. It won the first Balanghai trophies for Best Film and Best Editing. Del Mundo found it interesting that an old screenplay of his would even have a chance.

“In Pepot Artista, I was assisted by many of my students. Ganun talaga ‘yung paggawa ng indie films, e, ‘no? Maski hanggang ngayon, kailangan gamitin mo ‘yung mga kaibigan mo, ‘yung mga kakilala mo, para sa pelikula.”

Cornejo and Jimenez also acknowledged the sense of community and support in making independent films, and one key difference from then to now is the growing number of voices.

“Cinemalaya really changed the way people thought about making films,” said Jimenez. “It had such an impact on every filmmaker, especially the budding filmmakers.”

“It changed my life completely,” agreed Cornejo, who was hired by a studio to do another film right after Cinemalaya. “I only want it to be a better festival every year because of what it did for me and what it does for Philippine Cinema.”

The tandem went on to say how independent film now is in a much better place than when they started 20 years ago, with Cinemalaya still being a major testament that anyone can do films. 

For del Mundo, who already had a steady career in the industry at that time, Cinemalaya gave him the opportunity to direct a full-length film: “Even before Cinemalaya, I was already typecast as a screenwriter. I was already doing short films and documentaries but I really wanted to direct a full-length film. It was very satisfactory that I was able to do Pepot Artista because of Cinemalaya.”

When it comes to thriving in the craft, all three filmmakers urge aspiring independent filmmakers to persist and just make the films they want to do.

“You just have to believe in yourself and in your story, and find a way to get that story made and that story told,” said Cornejo. 

For its next editions, Cinemalaya will surely continue to uphold its vision to discover, encourage, support, train and recognize gifted Filipino independent filmmakers.