Wellness – eNSMAN https://nsman.safra.sg Build Bonds, Create Memories Wed, 25 Sep 2024 10:22:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 6 Easy Health Habits You Can Incorporate Into Your Day https://nsman.safra.sg/6-easy-health-habits-you-can-incorporate-into-your-day/ Thu, 26 Sep 2024 02:00:13 +0000 https://nsman.safra.sg/?p=28545 Keep your body fit, flexible and strong with minimal effort.

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Physical activity is a major factor in preventing and reducing our risk of developing serious conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular disease. It also helps us manage our weight and prevent obesity, keeps our bones and muscles strong, and protects our mental health. 

But looking after your body needn’t be difficult or time-consuming. In fact, you can easily work them into your daily routine, simply by adopting these – almost effortless – healthy habits.

1. Find opportunities for incidental exercise

“Incorporating incidental exercise into your daily routine is a great way to stay active without dedicating extra time for structured workouts,” says Jacob Chee, a physiotherapist and General Manager at the Physio & Sole Clinic at SAFRA Punggol. 

Here are ways to get moving throughout the day, according to Jacob: 

Don’t drive or take the train: When grocery shopping or running errands, walk or cycle to your destination. Take the stairs instead of the elevator whenever possible. Park further away from entrances when visiting stores or offices to increase your walking distance. If you use public transport, alight a stop earlier and walk the extra distance.

Invest in the perfect pair of active shoes at Asics; SAFRA members receive up to 15% off selected regular-priced items and an additional 5% off selected discounted items. Find out more at safra.sg/promotions/Asics-stores

Stand and move when working or watching TV: Stand while working by using a standing desk, and set a timer to take a break every 30 minutes by moving around for a few minutes. While watching TV, stand or march in place during commercial breaks or between episodes. 

Try “active socialising”: When meeting friends, suggest active outings like walking in a park or taking a fitness class together instead of sitting in a cafe. 

2. Take stretching breaks throughout the day

Take stretching breaks during the day

Jacob recommends these stretching exercises to release muscle tension and improve flexibility:

Neck side stretch: Sitting on your chair, hold onto the rim of the chair with one hand and pull your head to the opposite side with the other hand. Feel a stretch on the side of your neck and hold the position for 20 to 30 seconds, repeating five times. 

Chest stretch: Standing with your arm raised to shoulder height, bend the elbow 90 degrees so that your forearm is perpendicular to the floor. Place your forearm flat against a wall or door-frame and rotate your body away from your arm. Feel a stretch on the front of your chest and hold the position for 20 to 30 seconds, repeating five times.

Thoracic extension stretch: Sit in a chair with a backrest that reaches your mid-back (around shoulder-blade level). Place your hands behind your head, elbows pointing out to the sides. Lean back over the chair, using the backrest as a fulcrum to extend your thoracic spine. Focus on extending your upper back (thoracic spine) rather than arching your lower back. Hold this stretch for 20 seconds, taking deep breaths to release tension. Return to a neutral seated position and repeat a few times.

3. Forget the lift, climb the stairs instead

Forget the lift, climb the stairs instead

Stair-climbing elevates your heart rate, improving your cardiovascular system’s ability to transport nutrients and oxygen throughout your body. 

“The continuous movement increases the demand for more oxygen, making your lungs work harder, which enhances respiratory efficiency over time,” Jacob adds. 

“Regular stair climbing also trains your body to handle sustained effort, improving your endurance and making daily activities feel easier.”

Stair-climbing primarily strengthens the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, and glutes. Each step requires you to lift your body weight against gravity, engaging these muscles strongly. Your abdominals and lower back muscles stabilise your body as you climb, improving your core strength. 

Lastly, stair climbing challenges your balance and coordination, which helps to further augment stability and functional strength.

4. Do housework

Do housework

Doing house chores can burn a surprising number of calories, Jacob says.  

“Mopping or sweeping can burn more than 200 calories per hour. The muscles worked during this activity include the core, shoulders, upper arms, legs and back. 

“The continuous side-to-side and front-to-back movements with the broom or mop help to strengthen your shoulders, upper limbs, back and core muscles. If you squat or lunge to reach corners or under the bed, it helps to strengthen your legs, too.”

Similarly, decluttering and rearranging furniture – which involve lifting and moving furniture or heavy objects – strengthen your legs, back, and core. Squatting to pick up items or organising shelves engages your lower body, while carrying heavy boxes or pushing furniture challenges your upper body strength.

Scrubbing requires strength and endurance, particularly for your upper body and core, Jacob explains. The repeated bending, squatting and reaching also work your legs, promoting flexibility and balance.

Finally, carrying heavy groceries or laundry baskets mimics weightlifting, working your arms, shoulders, and back. Walking and navigating stairs with groceries also strengthens your legs and improves cardiovascular health.

5. Relax your body

Relax your body

Our body undergoes a tremendous amount of stress every day, so it’s important to give it some TLC every now and then. Besides doing stretching exercises, take time out to relax your muscles. Relaxing your muscles relieves physical tension, which may ease stress and anxiety, as well as minimise muscle and joint pain. 

SAFRA members can relax their muscles with a 60-minute Signature Body Massage for $88 (U.P. $130.80) at The Spa at The Ultimate at SAFRA Punggol.  For more information, go to safra.sg/promotions/safra-punggol-the-spa-lifesg-credits-promotion.

6. Look after your feet

Look after your feet

Your feet support you, so love them back and keep them pain-free and healthy with the Miuvo Foot Delight massager ($169). This device performs a range of functions: tui-na foot reflexology, air wrap squeeze massage, heel acupoint massage, soothing warm therapy, and more. Use it to boost blood circulation, aid lymphatic drainage, relax nerves, and soothe aching heels and feet. 

SAFRA members get 10% off Foot Delight, using the promotion code SAFRA10. For more information, visit safra.sg/promotions/miuvo

EnergyOne and SAFRA members enjoy a 15% membership discount on selected podiatry and physiotherapy services at Physio & Sole Clinic. Find out more at safra.sg/lifestyle/physio-sole-clinic


Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

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7 Things To Know About Keeping Your Heart Healthy https://nsman.safra.sg/7-things-to-know-about-keeping-your-heart-healthy/ Thu, 19 Sep 2024 10:00:19 +0000 https://nsman.safra.sg/?p=28462 Expert tips for protecting your heart and reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease, just in time for World Heart Day on 29 September.

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Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally. According to the World Health Organization, the disease takes an estimated 17.9 million lives each year; of these deaths, 85% were due to heart attack or stroke

In Singapore, 23 people die from cardiovascular disease (heart attack and stroke) every day. Last year, 30.9% of deaths – or one out of three deaths – could be attributed to heart diseases or stroke

Cardiovascular disease killed more men than women in 2023 – 14,703 compared to 12,182

There’s no better time than World Heart Day on 29 September to learn more about this top killer, from the factors that cause or contribute to it, to signs you may have heart disease and ways to minimise your risk of developing it. 

Here’s what you should know.

1. Cardiovascular disease encompasses various conditions

Close up of heart model

Cardiovascular disease is a collective term for diseases of the heart and blood vessels. The most common types include coronary artery disease, high blood pressure (hypertension), cardiac arrest, congestive heart failure, arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), stroke, congenital heart disease, and peripheral artery disease. 

If you are 35 years old and under, you can get screened for risk factors of heart disease, says Associate Professor Phillip Wong, Specialist in Cardiology and Consultant, Raffles Heart Centre. These risk factors include hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol. 

In people aged 55 and above, Assoc Prof Wong says that there is an increasing trend of cardiac arrhythmias, the most common of which is atrial fibrillation. 

“In men aged 40 and older, and in women of post-menopausal age, the most common heart disease is coronary artery disease (CAD),” he adds. 

2. Heart disease may show up in different ways

Close up of person checking heart monitor on watch

Heart disease may present with these symptoms, says Assoc Prof Wong:

  • The most common symptom is chest pain. Chest pain is typically exertional in nature – this means that its effect is worse when walking faster or up the stairs.
  • The second most common symptom is heart palpitations, which may be a sign of cardiac arrhythmia such as atrial fibrillation.
  • Another common symptom is your smart watch detecting some form of cardiac arrhythmia like atrial fibrillation.

3. Signs your chest pain is a heart attack

Man outdoors with chest pain

Chest pain is the main symptom of a heart attack. Assoc Prof Wong describes this symptom in greater detail: 

  • It occurs suddenly, even if you’re at rest. It can occur during your sleep as well.
  • It’s described as “compressive” or “squeezing” in nature. 
  • It occurs in the centre of the chest, not in the left or right side. 
  • The pain may be associated with cold sweats.
  • The pain can radiate up to the jaw (very common) or to the back, and down the insides of the arms. 
  • It cannot be relieved with gastric medication or other pain killers. 

If you experience these symptoms, Assoc Prof Wong says to call an ambulance or go to your nearest hospital emergency department immediately. 

4. You’re never too young to start looking after your heart

Doctor with stethoscope on model of heart

Many of us associate heart disease with middle age or old age, and as such, may only start paying attention to our heart health when we’re in our 50s or 60s. 

But did you know that younger men are about three times more at risk of developing CAD than their female counterparts of pre-menopausal age? Women have a particular advantage over men because female hormones have a protective effect on their heart. 

After menopause, however, women’s risk catches up with that of men, and if they do develop CAD, it tends to have poorer outcomes compared to men, Assoc Prof Wong says. 

So, don’t wait until you’re middle-aged to start taking care of your heart. Even if you’re in your 20s or 30s, you should make it a point to adopt heart-healthy lifestyle habits and get regular health screenings. 

5. You can lower your risk of cardiovascular disease

Young male enjoying a salad

Men should screen for risk factors such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes from the age of 30, says Assoc Prof Wong. 

If you smoke, he advises you to stop smoking, as this is a risk factor that is strongly associated with CAD.

You should also adopt healthier lifestyle habits, such as: 

Eating a healthier diet. Your diet should be: 

  • High in fibre (50% of each meal)
  • Low glycaemic index (GI), meaning that it should not raise your blood sugar levels quickly. Low-GI foods include oats and other whole grains like quinoa and brown rice, legumes and beans, starchy vegetables like corn and sweet potatoes, and most fruits
  • Low in red meats like pork, beef, and lamb
  • Low in processed foods, such as convenience meals, fast foods and canned foods

It’s also important to lower your salt (sodium) intake. Assoc Prof Wong says that only 2g of salt is required per day, however Singaporeans generally consume twice this amount. He recommends avoiding soups and gravies that are high in salt and easily absorbed into your system.  

Additionally, make sure you maintain a healthy body weight, because obesity is a big risk factor for developing heart disease. Assoc Prof Wong says that a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 23 or less is ideal.  

“Finally, live an active lifestyle, taking at least 6,000 steps per day, or even 10,000 steps, if possible, which is equivalent to between 5km and 6km,” he continues. 

 Learn how to spot hidden sodium in food and reduce your intake.

6. Take care of your mental health

Man under stress being counselled

Assoc Prof Wong says that while stress and depression are not causes of heart disease, they can lead to the poor management of risk factors and an unhealthy lifestyle. For instance, if you’re depressed, you may be more likely to seek comfort in foods that are high in fat, sugar and sodium, all of which may contribute to your risk of obesity and hypertension, which are major risk factors for heart disease. Likewise, if you’re stressed, you may have trouble sleeping, and poor sleep is also associated with a higher risk of heart disease.  

Stressful situations can also trigger heart attacks, Assoc Prof Wong adds.

7. Get sufficient quality sleep every night

Man getting good quality sleep

“An important factor for good heart health is good rest and hence adequate sleep, paired with an active lifestyle,” says Assoc Prof Wong. 

“Poor sleep can lead to poor preventive habits for heart disease and a sedentary lifestyle. 

“Another issue for poor sleep, which includes feeling tired and sleepy the following day, is a condition called OSA (obstructive sleep apnoea). This condition is common in Singapore and is associated with a poor control of hypertension and other risk factors.” 

Fortunately, OSA can be treated. Assoc Prof Wong says that if you have symptoms of poor sleep, such as waking up in the middle of the night with breathlessness or loud snoring, you should consult your doctor to get tested for OSA. 

Read on for more tips on how to sleep soundly and get a better nights rest.

Note: Please consult your GP or physician on managing your cardiovascular health.

SAFRA members enjoy member rates on health screenings at Raffles Medical clinics. For more details, click here

For the full list of healthcare benefits, go to safra.sg/promotions/healthcare-products-and-services.  


Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

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From Beach Cleanups To Skills Sharing: 6 Ways To Give Back & Do Good As A Family https://nsman.safra.sg/from-beach-cleanups-to-skills-sharing-6-ways-to-give-back-do-good-as-a-family/ Thu, 12 Sep 2024 10:00:17 +0000 https://nsman.safra.sg/?p=28367 Here’s what you can do to make a positive impact with your immediate and extended family members. 

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Being charitable together as a family isn’t just good for the people you’re helping out. It can also bring you and your family members closer together, resulting in stronger family connections. Studies have shown that doing charitable work, such as volunteering and performing acts of kindness, is good for our mental wellbeing. Giving as a family can also impart lessons in empathy, sharing, compassion and understanding. 

There are many ways to help out as a family. These six ideas also make for wonderful bonding experiences. 

1. Volunteer together

Mother and daughter doing volunteer work together

There are many charities and social enterprises that could use extra pairs of hands. Make volunteering a family affair by gathering your loved ones and signing up to help at different events or supporting an important cause every couple of months. Whether it’s volunteering at a pet shelter, organising a fundraiser, distributing food to needy Singaporeans, serving meals at a soup kitchen, or supporting programmes that help at-risk youth, the visually handicapped, people with mild intellectual disabilities or low-income families, there’s a lot you can do as a family to make a difference and change lives for the better.   

2. Organise a collection of money, vouchers or goods

Canvassing for donations

Start a fund for a special cause or group that your family can put money towards. Aim to raise a certain amount by a specific date, and then donate the money, or use it to buy shopping vouchers, on behalf of your family.

Your family can also collect gently used or unused clothing, books, toys, stationery, and household items from their friends, neighbours and colleagues and donate them to charity.  

Many charities accept non-perishable groceries and toiletries, so you may want to start a collection for these products, too.

Save money when you shop at Cold Storage Online – SAFRA members receive 10% off a minimum spend of $80 (capped at $25). For more information about this promotion, visit safra.sg/promotions/cold-storage-online

3. Donate blood

Blood donation

Donating blood helps maintain Singapore’s blood supply and save lives. The blood donation process is simple – all you have to do is check your eligibility and make an appointment (the minimum age requirement for blood donors is 16 years old). Get eligible family members together and make a trip to the blood bank. If you’re organising a group blood drive for more than 10 participants, you can request for transport to one of the island’s blood banks. Find out more at giveblood.sg.   

4. Befriend senior neighbours

Befriend senior neighbours

There are many seniors who are living alone or have no one to talk to or socialise with. Maintaining social connections in old age is important – it may help reduce cognitive decline and reduce the risk of depression, heart disease, stroke and premature death. If you have older neighbours who live alone or don’t get to see their children and grandchildren very often, take turns with your family members to spend time with them at home, take them on outings, help them with housework and grocery shopping, or escort them to medical appointments. 

You can also visit an aged care facility regularly and spend time with the residents there. 

Flowers will help put a smile on the faces of your elderly neighbours. If you’re a SAFRA member or serviceman, enjoy up to 20% off flower purchases at AngelFlorist, plus free delivery with every purchase. For more details, go to safra.sg/promotions/AngelFlorist

5. Put your skills to good use

Put your skills to good use

Non-profit organisations are always on the lookout for people with special skills to help support their beneficiaries. If you are skilled in financial management, for example, you can empower low-income families to achieve financial independence and help them break the poverty cycle. If you have an art background, you can conduct free art classes for children who cannot afford art lessons. Find out what skills your family members can contribute and then contact local charities and non-profit organisations to find out how you can all put your talents to good use. 

6. Help clean our beaches and parks

Help clean our beaches and parks

Volunteers are always welcome to help remove litter from our beaches and parks, so get your family together to take action and make these public areas more enjoyable for other beach-goers. The Public Hygiene Council encourages Singaporeans to be part of the clean-up effort at various locations, including Changi Beach Park, Coney Island Park, Sembawang Park, Tiong Bahru Park, Woodlands Waterfront Park, and Pasir Ris Beach Park. 

Register online, for free, at publichygienecouncil.sg/beachcleanup. You will need to bring your own masks, gloves, hand sanitiser, tongs and trash bags, and you may borrow litter-picking tools via the website. Remember to download the online guide to help you organise your first clean-up. 


Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story! 

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Swimming Can Improve Your Social Life – And Other Lesser-Known Health Benefits Of Swimming https://nsman.safra.sg/swimming-can-improve-your-social-life-and-other-lesser-known-health-benefits-of-swimming/ Tue, 10 Sep 2024 02:00:03 +0000 https://nsman.safra.sg/?p=28254 Swimming is great for overall fitness, but did you know that it can also help improve your sleep quality, boost your confidence and enhance your social skills? 

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Like other cardiovascular workouts, swimming offers a range of health benefits. It burns calories and fat, so it helps with weight loss and maintenance, plus it builds strength and endurance and increases our heart rate without stressing our body. 

But there are other, lesser-known health benefits of being in the water – from helping you breathe and sleep better to preventing joint problems such as arthritis. 

SAFRA clubs are home to a variety of pools that are perfect whether you want to swim alone or with friends, enjoy a gentle underwater workout, or have a splashing good time with your family. 

1. It can improve your social life

Children doing kicks at edge of swimming pool

Swimming with others, such as when training for team relay races or learning to swim in a group, is a great opportunity to meet new people and expand your social circle. In addition to developing team-building skills, swimming with other people allows you to interact socially as you learn new strokes and techniques, support one another with individual or collective goals, and share tips to improve, says Emir Hamza Ali, Head Coach at FINS Swim School. 

Training for an event – like the ongoing SAFRA Swim for Hope – is a fun way to get together with your buddies and family members. 

Introduced in 2011 at SAFRA Tampines, SAFRA Swim for Hope provides an opportunity for Operationally Ready National Servicemen and their friends and loved ones to contribute to charitable causes while promoting fitness and bonding through swimming.

Every edition has adopted various charities to raise funds for those in need. This year’s nett proceeds will go to 5 beneficiaries – Community Chest, President’s Challenge, SAF Care Fund, Singapore Aquatics (Development Fund) and SPD.

Registration for SAFRA Swim for Hope is open now. To register, donate or find out more, go to safras4h.sg. 

2. It helps build confidence

The sheltered swimming pool at SAFRA Choa Chu Kang

Whether alone or in a group, swimming is a huge confidence booster, says Emir. 

“Swimming alone develops a particular form of confidence and builds character, especially if you are pushing yourself to meet a specific goal or achieve a personal best.”

If you’re swimming as part of a team relay race, clocking a certain time or distance together can certainly help grow your confidence and boost your morale, too. SAFRA Swim for Hope has a Team category as well – why not form a team (minimum 5 pax) with your buddies and have a fun workout, while doing your part for charity?

Want to increase your confidence as a swimmer? The pool at SAFRA Choa Chu Kang is sheltered so it’s ideal for training in all kinds of weather. The six-lane, 50m-long lap pool has a depth of 1.2m, while the training pool has a depth of 1m.

3. It can help you sleep better at night

Swimming pools at SAFRA Toa Payoh

Swimming requires the use of nearly all your muscles. Not only does this tire your body physically; it also eases your mind, thereby helping you achieve better sleep,” says Dr Ding See Jong, General Practitioner, Raffles Medical. 

We tend to sleep better when we’re less stressed, and swimming also reduces stress as it has an almost meditative effect, since it involves a certain level of mindfulness and concentration while in the water. 

“While swimming laps, in particular, you would only focus on your swimming strokes. Noises are cancelled when you are in the water and this helps with mindfulness,” Dr Ding adds. 

The pools at the SAFRA clubs in Mount Faber, Tampines and Toa Payoh are perfect for uninterrupted lap swims. Each pool is Olympic-sized (50m in length), with the Mount Faber pool offering five lanes, the Tampines pool, eight lanes, and the Toa Payoh pool, six lanes. 

4. It’s a wonderful family-bonding activity

Young family in swimming pool

Swimming with your kids is a great way to spend quality time with them while teaching them the value of regular exercise. Plus, it provides an opportunity to build trust, improve communication, lend support, and de-stress and have fun together. 

The Families for Life category in SAFRA Swim for Hope lets you team up with one child (6-12 years old) to swim – its a great way to bond while getting fit, and helping the less fortunate together.

Your little ones will love the family-friendly, resort-style pools at SAFRA Yishun. Besides the six-lane, 50m-long Olympic-sized pool, you will find a training pool, a fun pool, a bubble pool, and a wet play pool. SAFRA Jurong also boasts treehouse- and gecko-themed pools that are great for kids. 

5. It’s a gentle workout if you’re recovering from injuries

Man doing backstroke in pool

Swimming is one of the best exercises you can do if you’re recovering from an injury. Because it’s a low-gravity workout, it doesn’t put as much pressure or impact on your joints and muscles as, say, walking or running, says Emir. 

It’s important to move slowly through the water so as not to tax your body. While swimming may be easy on your muscles and joints, Emir notes that dislocations and muscle tears are not uncommon. 

“These usually occur if a swimmer swims through pain and trains intensely. Instead, try moving your limbs while stationary in the water, as this helps boost blood circulation in your muscles and assists in a speedier recovery.”

Emir adds that you should always listen to your body and take breaks if needed, especially if you’re injured or recovering from an injury. 

6. It can give you stronger lungs

Model of lungs

Dr Ding says that swimming can help improve your respiratory health, because you have to coordinate your breath while moving through the water and regulate your breathing rhythm for certain swimming styles. 

It may even help with respiratory conditions like asthma – Dr Ding has seen many people recover from childhood asthma after taking swimming lessons. 

7. It helps stave off or improve arthritis

Seated man doing knee exercises

If you’re worried about developing arthritis, swimming is an ideal workout. Dr Ding says that the activity strengthens core muscles and prevents injury to certain joints, like the knees and ankles. If you already have arthritis or other medical conditions, it’s important to start slow and learn the proper techniques to avoid injury. 


Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

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Unwind At Home With These Massage Tips By The Upsara Spa https://nsman.safra.sg/unwind-at-home-with-these-massage-tips-by-the-upsara-spa/ Tue, 03 Sep 2024 04:00:24 +0000 https://nsman.safra.sg/?p=27397 It's time to release some stress!

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After a long day, your body is aching and desperately calling for your attention. Fret not, as The Upsara Spa has prepared three relaxing massage techniques that you and your partner can easily incorporate into your daily schedule to release the pent up stress and tension that is lurking in your muscles. 

Read on to learn more about these techniques – your partner and your muscles will thank you! 

Be your own massage therapist

Here, the experienced therapists from The Upsara Spa share some simple massage techniques which you and your other half can integrate into your own wellness routines at home. 

Hand and Wrist Massage

By massaging your hands and wrists, you can free up the tension in your arms to feel a surge of relief. 

Step 1: Gently stretch and rotate wrists. 

Step 2: Straighten arms and apply long strokes from elbow to wrist.

Step 3: Firmly knead the back of the palm. 

Step 4: Gently but firmly pull each finger. 

Step 5: Repeat for the other hand. 

The Upsara Spa massage tips

Head Relief Massage

This technique is effective in alleviating your partner’s discomfort resulting from headaches and migraines. 

Step 1: Press palms firmly on the chest and move towards the base of the neck.

Step 2: Press thumbs firmly into the tension points on the shoulders. 

Step 3: Anchor thumbs on the top of the head. Firmly knead the sides with fingers in a circular motion. 

Step 4: Firmly press thumbs on forehead and slide towards the temples. 

Step 5: Press thumbs on top of the head and knead in an up/down motion.

Step 6: Massage the nape with fingers in a circular motion. 

The Upsara Spa back massage

Back Massage

Relieve chronic pain with a soothing back massage.

Step 1: With your partner facing down, press palms gently on their lower back. Move towards the shoulders and return. 

Step 2: Press elbows along the spine. Move towards the shoulders and return. 

Step 3: Press thumbs firmly into shoulder blades towards the upper back and return. 

Step 4: Anchor thumbs into the scapular blades and press firmly. 

Step 5: Press thumbs into the nape area.

Take a day off to recharge

The Upsara Spa Room

As much as we want to climb that never-ending corporate ladder, it is also important that we enjoy pockets of bliss and comfort whenever we can.

At The Upsara Spa, you can finally rest as hard as you work. Step into a sanctuary where you can find solace from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, as you enjoy a steaming sauna, a bubbling jacuzzi as well as delicious treats at its exclusive relaxation lounge. If you’d like to enhance your experience, opt for an array of therapeutic services such as massage treatments, foot reflexology, facials and much more. The Upsara Spa aims to provide you the tranquil retreat that you deserve.

A personal spa day is definitely due, so what are you waiting for? 

SAFRA members enjoy 15% off at The Upsara Spa. The first 20 couples to sign up will also receive a complimentary body lotion (while stocks last). Find out more or make a reservation at safra.sg/the-upsara-spa


Want more articles like this, and other lifestyle content right in your inbox? Download the new SAFRA mobile app and opt in for the eNSman Newsletter – you don’t need to be a SAFRA member to subscribe – and never miss another story!

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Stretch Your Dollar With Shopping, Lifestyle & Enrichment Deals For NSmen https://nsman.safra.sg/stretch-your-dollar-with-shopping-lifestyle-enrichment-deals-for-nsmen/ Thu, 15 Aug 2024 10:00:33 +0000 https://nsman.safra.sg/?p=27974 Save big, whether you’re shopping, travelling, or spending time with family and friends.

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In appreciation of your service to the nation, SAFRA and more than 180 merchants islandwide are offering discounts and deals for national servicemen and SAFRA members.

Check out the entire suite of deals across F&B, groceries and other lifestyle products and services at the Appreciating NSmen Deals webpage. T&Cs apply.

But first, here’s a peek at what you can expect.

Elevate your home, wardrobe & more with these limited-time offers

Appreciating NSmen 2024-Shopping Deals

Refresh your lifestyle without breaking the bank and dive into the top deals across electronics, fashion, and home essentials that you can’t afford to miss.

  • COURTS: Get up to 70% off selected products, like coffee machines, dehumidifiers, furniture and bedding, at all COURTS outlets till 1 Sep.
  • Lenskart: Receive your first frame free and enjoy 50% off lenses on purchases at Lenskart outlets islandwide. Valid till 1 Sep.
  • Skechers: Enjoy 15% off all regular-priced footwear and apparel at selected Skechers outlets. Valid till 31 Aug.
  • JBL: Get an additional 20% off JBL bestseller speakers and headphones on all online purchases till 1 Sep.
  • Atome: All new and existing users can enjoy up to 50% off Atome’s flexible paying solution when you shop at popular online and physical retailers across fashion, beauty, lifestyle and more. Valid till 31 Aug for payments via Atome app (limited redemptions available).

Eat healthy & save more!

Appreciating NSmen 2024-Grocery Deals

From fresh produce to family favourites, stock up your pantry and save more, all from the comfort of your home.

  • Cold Storage Online: Get 10% off with min. $80 spend (capped at $25). Valid till 31 Dec.
  • FairPrice Online: Enjoy $12 OFF and FREE delivery with min. $59 spend on your first delivery order. Valid till 1 Jul 2025.

Your next getaway is calling …

Appreciating NSmen 2024-Travel Deals

Gear up for your next travel adventure or escape the routine to explore our fun-tastic home-grown attractions. Book now and enjoy great savings.

  • Mandai Wildlife Reserve: Explore the wild and beautiful with 25% off admission tickets to Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, Night Safari and Bird Paradise. Valid till 31 Aug.
  • Wild Wild Wet: Get 1-for-1 Off-Peak Day Passes to enjoy thrilling water rides, slides, and a kids zone. Valid till 31 Aug.
  • Shangri-La Singapore: Located near vibrant Orchard Road, get 15% off Best Flexible Rates on stays till 31 Dec.
  • Agoda: Enjoy up to $50 off on accommodations worldwide for stays till 31 Dec 2025.

SAFRA Members Exclusive: Weekend movie deal at Shaw Theatres

Appreciating NSmen 2024-Shaw Theatres

Calling all movie buffs! Enjoy double the fun with Shaw Theatres’ exclusive 1-for-1 weekend movie ticket deal. Purchase a full-priced ticket at $15.50 and enjoy the second ticket free when you book via the SAFRA App or m.safra.sg

Valid till 29 Sep. For the first 300 redemptions each day on Sat and Sun. More details here.

Relax & rejuvenate

Appreciating NSmen 2024-Spa Deals

Treat yourself to the ultimate relaxation experience at Spacio TCM Wellness. Relieve your stress and soothe your senses with a 60min relaxing massage for just $48 exclusively at their Bukit Panjang Plaza outlet. Valid till 31 Dec. Find out more here.

Enrich your child’s learning journey

Appreciating NSmen 2024-Enrichment Deals

Enrol your little ones for art workshops or swimming lessons at our SAFRA clubs and help them pick up a new skill.

  • Canvas Ark: New sign-ups are entitled to a waiver of material and registration fees (save $106) at SAFRA Toa Payoh and SAFRA Choa Chu Kang. Valid till 31 Dec.
  • FINS Swim School: New sign-ups get $100 off plus a waiver of registration fees (save $150), at SAFRA Jurong only. Valid till 31 Dec.

Make the most of your SAFRA membership

Enjoy more exclusive deals and perks when you sign up or renew your SAFRA membership here or via the SAFRA app. Exclusively till 1 Sep:

  • Get 3 years’ membership for the price of 1 year at $43.60 (U.P. $130.80) with promo code WSNS24
  • Dependent membership at $5.45/year (U.P. $21.80) for 1st Dependent Member with min. 2 years sign-up and free for 2nd Dependent Member onwards.

Appreciating NSmen 2024-Membership Deals


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