Southside October 2020

FAMILY | PICNICS | BOOKS | HALLOWEEN

October 2020

Monkey business Explore Shing Mun Reservoir

Life’s a picnic

Your ultimate guide to eating outdoors

Dive deeper

Experts discuss mental health in Hong Kong

Haunted Southside The ghostly past of Murray House

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CONTENTS — 10/20

20 COVER STORY

Meet the people raising awareness for mental health in Hong Kong

2 CONTRIBUTORS Meet the team

6 PEOPLE

Southsiders out and about

8 THE PLANNER

What’s on in October

16 BIG DAY OUT

Rory Mackay explores Shing Mun Country Park

36 ZIM CITY

District Councillor Paul Zimmerman on infrastructural problems at Queen Mary Hospital

25 DINING

Your guide to the perfect picnic

30 MUST HAVES THIS MONTH Spooktacular treats for Halloween

10 NEWS

What’s happening in our backyard

32 PETS

Dr Pauline on pet poisonings

13 LOCAL

Ardyce Yik’s new children’s book

35 SOUTHSIDE SECRETS

The ghostly past of Murray House

15 FIVE MINUTES WITH

Yoona Min, founder and CEO of YVEREST

18 25 16 8

30

35 “Tough times never last, but tough people do”- Robert Schuller

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editor’s letter Hello again, Southsiders. A big thank you to Karin Bremer for steering us though the summer months as guest editor. Local voices are a critical part of the Southside community and we are always looking for a fresh perspective to sprinkle in the magazine. If you have what it takes to sit in the editor’s chair, please drop me a message.

After months of uncertainty, it looks like the city may slowly be getting back to normal - but it’s okay if you are not. This month I sat down with some of Hong Kong’s biggest proponents for mental health to talk about how we as a society can remove the stigma behind mental health and start a positive conversation (page 18).

Autumn is traditionally a great time of the year in Hong Kong, so why not head out into the fresh air and enjoy a picnic in some of the city’s most beautiful parks. If you’re feeling creative, make a spread or check out our guide on the classiest picnic baskets in town (page 26).

Finally, it wouldn’t be an October issue without a ghost story. We dive into the gruesome history of Murray House in our Southside Secrets (page 35).

Here’s to a spooktacular month.

Editorial Editor-in-chief Nicole Slater, nicole@hongkongliving.com Senior Staff Writer Charmaine Ng, charmaineng@hongkongliving.com Contributing Editors Melanie Cox, melanie@hongkongliving.com Gemma Shaw, gemma@hongkongliving.com Digital Editor Apple Lee, apple@hongkongliving.com

Design Graphic Designer Vicky Lam, vicky@hongkongliving.com Yankee Tsang, yankee@hongkongliving.com

Sales & Marketing Director of Content Hilda Chan, hilda@hongkongliving.com Head of Digital Content Isamonia Chui, isamonia@hongkongliving.com Partnership Manager Chrissie Ip, chrissie@hongkongliving.com Elaine Li, elaine@hongkongliving.com

Things we love

Circulation Manager Pranali Gupta, pranali@hongkongliving.com

Publisher Matt Eaton, matt@hongkongliving.com

Founding Director Tom Hilditch, tom@hongkongliving.com

Contact us Admin: 3568 3722 | Editorial: 2776 2773 | Advertising: 2776 2772 Published by Hong Kong Living Ltd, L1 Kai Wong Commercial Building, 222 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong Printer Apex Print Limited, 11-13 Dai Kwai Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, Tai Po, Hong Kong

Eco-friendly coffee

Say cheese (& wine)

The popular coffee brand has revamped its Master Origins Colombia capsules this month, making them with 80% recycled aluminium. The revamp is part of Nespresso's 2020 Carbon Neutral commitment, so you can enjoy your caffeine fix knowing that you’re doing your part to help the environment. nespresso.com

The Upperhouse’s latest pop-up with C’est Cheese - The House Cheeserie, offers a weekly rotating range of cheeses, sourced from responsible and devoted farming families.

Enjoy an artisan platter and bottle of fine wine underneath the city lights on The Lawn - the perfect date night. upperhouse.com

Covid-19 update

As Southside Magazine goes to print we have done our best to keep our content as accurate and up-to-date as possible, but life under Covid-19 regulations means things tend to change, often from day-to-day. Please check with local businesses for operation hours and services available and remember, stay safe.

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HONG KONG hongkongliving.com Southside Magazine is published by Hong Kong Living Ltd. This magazine is published on the understanding that the publishers, advertisers, contributors and their employees are not responsible for the results of any actions, errors and omissions taken on the basis of information contained in this publication. The publisher, advertisers, contributors and their employees expressly disclaim all and any liability to any person, whether a reader of this publication or not, in respect of any action or omission by this publication. Southside Magazine cannot be held responsible for any errors or inaccuracies provided by advertisers or contributors. The views herein are not necessarily shared by the staff or publishers. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher.

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contributors

Thank you to our contributors

Paul Zimmerman Paul Zimmerman is the CEO of Designing Hong Kong, the co-convenor of Save Our Country Parks and Southern District Councillor of Pok Fu Lam. This month Zimmerman addresses the infrastructural problems at Queen Mary Hospital.

Yoona Min Founder and CEO of YVEREST, Yoona Min, launched her business amidst the pandemic and has been helping women find love-self during the lock down. Find out more about her and YVEREST in our five minutes with section.

Karin Bremer Dutch-Australian photographer Karin Bremer runs photography company “Karin Bremer Photography� offers family portraits, events and commercial product services.

See all her snaps from this month on our peoples page. karinbremer.com

Dr Ardyce Yik Dr Ardyce Yik recently published her first book Covid-19 and You: 20 Ways to Support Your Health. Read all about her experience in our local story.

Rory Mackay Avid hiker and thrill-seeker Rory Mackay owns adventure company Wild Hong Kong. He ventured over to Shing Mun Reservoir in the New Territories this month. Read all about his adventure in our big day out. wildhongkong.com

Dr Hannah Reidy CEO of Local mental health charity Mind HK, Dr Hannah Reidy has worked with the charity since 2016 and is on a mission to ensure no one in Hong Kong has to face a mental health problem alone. Learn more about how the charity is helping remove the stigma around mental health in our cover story.

Want to write for Southside Magazine? Contact editorial@hongkongliving.com 4 | SOUTHSIDE

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people

Snaps from Southside

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say cheese

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planner OCT 7

Wednesday Night Social Run Enjoy weekly runs and meet fellow runners while exploring Hong Kong trails. 7.30-9.30pm. $20.

Hong Kong Sports Centre, 29 Cotton Tree Drive, Central. tgr.run

OCT 9-11

China Coast Regatta Based out of the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club’s Middle Island clubhouse, sailors will compete in a variety of windward, leeward, geometric and island courses. chinacoastraceweek.com

OCT 10 Photo: Sunny Lee

Italian Wedding Fair Create your own Italian love story and be inspired

by SPIGA and Portico’s latest creations. 10am8pm. SPIGA, 31 Queen’s Road Central, Central. spiga.com.hk

OCT 24

HK50 Explore some of the best viewing points on Hong Kong Island including Mount Butler, Jardine’s Lookout and Violet Hill along the Hong Kong Trail. 7am-5pm. $790. Starting location is the Peak Galleria. actionasiaevents.com

THROUGHOUT OCT Green Outing

OCT 17

Practice yoga, meditation and SUP Yoga at various locations around Ocean Park, including the aquarium and water fountain. From $80.

Ocean Park, Aberdeen. oceanpark.com.hk

Broadway Ball: At home Enjoy a traditional celebratory night hosted by Theatre Charlotte from the comfort of your own home. Take part in an online auction, watch streamed performances and even get a sneak peak of the new Quarantine: The Musical.

7-11.30pm. Free. theatrecharlotte.org

OCT 4

Kapuhala GreenRace 18

THROUGHOUT OCT 80’s Dim Sum Night

Head over to Duddells and feast on a variety of nostalgic dim sum, street snacks and desserts.

Every Monday - Thursday. 6-9pm. Level 3, Shanghai Tang Mansion 1 Duddell Street, Central. duddells.co

OCT 1

Mid-Autumn Festival Eat a mooncake, light up a lantern and enjoy the four-day weekend.

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A 18km trail race across Shuen Wan Country Park. The race finishes at Hong Lok Yuen Country Club where participants can enjoy a spread of food and beer. 8am-6pm. $740. tgr.run

OCT 18

DB Sunday Market Grab a bargain and support a local independent store at this outdoor monthly market. 11am.

Free. Discovery Bay Plaza, Discovery Bay Road, Lantau. handmadehongkong.com

OCT 31

Halloween Put on your scariest costume and get ready for a night of fright.

OCT 31

Lantau 70 The eighth edition of the Salomon Lantau 70 is back, welcoming solo and relay teams of four.

8.30am. From $990. China Bear, 3 Ngan Wan Road, Mui Wo. thetrailhub.com

what’s on

BOOK NOW

NOV 22

NOV 6-7

Drinkination Hong Kong

Hong Kong Mental Health Conference

Enjoy tasting some of the world’s finest wines and spirits in a two-day celebration. 1210pm. $250. 1881 Heritage, 2A Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. wine-luxe.com

Hosted by Mindful HK, this year’s conference will feature over 45 local and international speakers talking about a variety of topics from the perinatal period to transitioning into the workplace. 9am-8pm. $715. HKEX Connect Hall and Centricity, 1/F, Exchange Square Block 1 and 2, Connaught Place, Central. hkmentalhealthconference.com

NOV 28

St. Mary’s 120th Anniversary Dinner Explore the campus and tuck into a delicious Chinese banquet. 6-9pm.

St. Mary’s Canossian College, 162 Austin Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. smcc-canossian.org

NOV 7-8

Qile Cake Charity Sale Going into its 25th year, Qile Cake Charity Sale raises funds for Haven of Hope Christian Services’s non-government funded elderly services. Each purchase will help provide daily necessities and medical equipment to the elderly. 1-6pm.

Goods priced from $29. Online and selected shopping malls. hohcs.org.hk

NOV 28-29

Spartan APAC Championship Trifecta Weekend The world’s largest obstacle course is back for two testing days. Step out of your comfort zone for the chance to win cash and prizes worth up to $200,000. $500. Kam Tin Country Club,109 Shui Tau, Yuen Long.spartanrace.hk

Got an event? We can publish the details for free. Email editorial@hongkongliving.com

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news

End wildlife trade Pet supplies brand Whiskers N Paws (WNP) and WildAid have partnered up to support the #EndTheTrade campaign, with an aim to end the commercial trade of wildlife for consumption. From now until March 2021, WNP is supporting the campaign through a series of virtual activities and sales of the ‘Love Animal Love Life’ collection.

All proceeds will contribute to WildAid’s wildlife conservation projects in Hong Kong. endthetrade.com

New hotel opens in Ap Lei Chau Ready for the perfect staycation? A new hotel has joined the Southside neighbourhood. Based in Ap Lei Chau, Urbanwood Hotel dedicates itself to bringing travellers authentic travel experiences in a relaxed and homely environment. “Urban”

refers to Hong Kong’s unique metropolitan life, while “Wood” emphasises how it incorporates nature into its designs. Drop by the old fishing village for a city getaway and enjoy all the new amenities before everyone else. urbanwoodhotels.com

Glow up Elysia Redoleo is collaborating with Japanese first-line beauty salons for the The Glow Getter Miracle Masque. The natural mask is made with beetroot, oatmeal and aloe extract to provide a bright and moisturised finish.

Elysia Redoleo’s products do not contain any fragrances, pigments or additives, making them suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women or people with sensitive skin. Each box includes three silk masks and two test tube masks. elysiaredoleo.com

Ocean Park launches a hiking tour This October, Ocean Park is launching a Green Staycation campaign to encourage outdoor enthusiasts to explore its grounds.

As a part of the campaign, Ocean Park will introduce three outdoors and wellnessrelated activities, including guided hiking

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tours on Nam Long Shan and yoga and meditation across various locations such as the aquarium. The theme park is also opening a new campsite for families and friends to spend the night under the stars. oceanpark.com.hk

Pink dolphins get frisky

TEDxTinHau returns

The pink dolphin population has risen by 30 percent since high-speed ferry services between Hong Kong and Macau came to a standstill in February. The Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, also known as pink dolphins, are native to the Pearl River estuary and listed as protected species in Hong Kong. There were 250 pink dolphins inhabiting the city’s waters in the 1990s, but over the last two decades, that number has dwindled to just 32. Dr Lindsay Porter, a senior research scientist from the University of

in your backyard

St Andrews, has been studying pink dolphins since 1993. “Dolphins are spending much more time socialising, splashing around on the surface and having quite a bit of foreplay and quite a bit of sex. It’s really great to see them playing and having a good time,” Porter said. To help protect the endangered species, she said residents can play their part by making better use of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge and limiting the number of ferries running between Hong Kong and Macau.

Amid growing concerns about the environment, TEDxTinHau has announced the return of its annual speaker event – this time with a sustainability focus. On October 17, a host of Hong Kong-based climate activists will use the theme of Countdown to discuss ideas and actions to fight climate change. The talks will take place from 3pm to 6pm at The Fringe Club, but will be by invitation only, to abide with social distancing guidelines. Viewers can tune into live streams at Explorium HK, Banyan Workspace and various WeWork locations. tedxtinhauwomen.com

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local

Local resident releases book about Covid Charmaine Ng talks to Dr Ardyce Yik, naturopathic doctor and author of Covid-19 and You: 20 Ways to Support Your Health When the coronavirus pandemic first broke out, Southside resident Dr Ardyce Yik realised that the challenges she faced were unprecedented. Strict social distancing measures, businesses shutting down, online schooling, toilet paper shortages – the changes brought on by Covid-19 came suddenly and shocked the masses.

As a mother and healthcare practitioner, Yik wanted to do something to help others. Using her expertise as a licensed naturopathic physician, she decided to create an illustrated health book on how to stay healthy during a global pandemic – physically, mentally and emotionally.

“To keep it simple, I chose 20 important tips to remind people of how to stay healthy on all levels,” she says. “I chose Hong Kong as the backdrop of my book to celebrate this beautiful city’s resilience.”

Local readers will see many familiar landmarks make their mark in Covid-19 and You: 20 Ways to Support Your Health. Two places of particular significance featured are Lion Rock and Lee Tung Avenue.

The first is a mountain located in Kowloon named for its resemblance to a lion’s shape; the ‘Lion Rock spirit’ is a term that refers to the perseverance and can-do attitude of Hong Kong people. The latter is Lee Tung Avenue, historically known as ‘wedding card street’; it has since been revitalised and is now celebrated for its tree-lined pedestrian walkway, brightly lit boutiques and signature red lanterns.

“The point I want to convey to readers is that change is inevitable, but when we meet each change with faith and positivity, the outcome may not be so bad,” explains Yik. Yik’s book is not only a health guide, but it also serves as a tribute of our times. In addition to the coronavirus pandemic, a global outcry for change in regards to racial injustice emerged in the middle of the year. Closer to home, Hong Kong was once again propelled into the spotlight after the national security law was passed. 2020 has been an eventful year, to say the least.

“When people read my book now, it serves as a health guide and tribute to this city,” says Yik.

“But in the future, when they (or their children) pick up the book, it will serve more as a keepsake and bring back memories of this remarkable year.”

Covid-19 and You: 20 Ways to Support Your Health is available at Bookazine and other retailers across Hong Kong. It is also available at IMI Clinic. The e-book version is available on Amazon and Kindle.

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five minutes with Following her sister’s footsteps, Yoona Min moved to Hong Kong two years ago with the hopes of starting her own business. “Hong Kong is a great place to succeed, there are so many opportunities and talented people to work with,” min says.

With a mission to help females in the city become more open and confident about their sexuality, Min created a range of products to educate and stimulate women. Min strongly believes that the most important relationship one has is with oneself: “Bringing a positive contribution to women’s sexual health and wellness is so important, women need to learn more about the power of self-care and self-love.”

Hong Kong’s shyness towards sexual health can make many women feel embarrassed to talk about it, so Min has started the conversation for us and has created two unique and elegant bedroom toys. Wanting to take away the negative stigma and empower women to take charge of their own feelings, her products are sweetly named after Japanese flowers, Tsubaki and Tsubomi. “Growing up in Japan, I always marveled at the beauty and elegance of these flowers, so it’s only fitting that my products are just as elegant,” she says.

Bringing a positive contribution to women’s sexual health and wellness is so important

Five minutes with

Yoona Min Nicole Slater meets the founder and CEO of women’s wellness brand, YVEREST

This year has been especially challenging for new businesses, launching in June, YVEREST began in the midst of the pandemic, but Min remains upbeat. “This period was a crucial time for me to learn, strive and grow. I spent a lot of time with my loved ones and prioritised on self-growth and goals,” she says.

Self-love and wellbeing has become an important part of 2020, as many struggle with the worries of the new normal, a chance of pleasure can really keep your spirit alive during this time.

The future looks bright from Min and YVEREST, taking inspiration from successful female entrepreneurs around the world, she has taken the wellness industry by storm and continues to be an ambassador for women’s empowerment.

For more information about Min and YVEREST visit yverest.com

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big day out

MONKEYS, MOUNTAINS AND MACLEHOSE TRAILS Rory Mackay satisfies a burning urge of wanderlust in Shing Mun Country Park

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shing mun

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big day out

If you fancy exploring a peaceful area that many folks don’t know about, then a day trip out to Shing Mun Reservoir could be in order. This discreetly tucked away corner of rural Hong Kong has an incredible amount on offer for those who wish to satisfy a burning urge of wanderlust.

Located between northwestern Kowloon and Sha Tin, Shing Mun Country Park is well-known for its population of wild monkeys. However, the area has plenty of other attractions too, including an easy-going nature trail around Shing Mun Reservoir. For more adventurous hikers, there are many trails running up to Tai Mo Shan, including the Wilson and Maclehose.

The simplest way in (other than driving) is to head over to Tsuen Wan MTR station and take exit B1. From the station it’s a five minute walk to the 82 green minibus, which will take

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you to Shing Mun Country Park, terminating immediately below the grassy banks of Pineapple Dam. I recommend that you enjoy a meal before your visit or bring a picnic with you, as there are no vendors in the park other than a small kiosk at Pineapple Dam.

Monkey business Once you arrive at Pineapple Dam bus stop, keep an eye out for some of the delightful wildlife on offer, especially during the weekdays.

You could be confronted by many monkeys, invariably a troop of Rhesus Macaques.

Although the Rhesus species is native to Hong Kong, the Macaques found today are believed to be re-introduced. During the construction of the Kowloon Reservoirs in the early 20th Century, the apes were deployed to the surrounding areas in order to combat the spread of a plant that tainted the water supply.

These monkeys roam in large numbers and tend to hang around the entrance, as the rubbish bins and human presence increases their chances of finding a meal. There are signs at the park entrance spelling out the dos and don’ts in regards to the monkeys. From experience, simply be relaxed. Don’t approach the monkeys with food and they will mind their own monkey business. Direct eye contact and sudden movements won’t endear you to them either. With those unpleasantries out of the way, the monkeys are great fun to observe and can be extremely photogenic.

There are a couple of ways to negotiate Shing Mun, the simple way and the adventurous way.

The simple way Keep turning right from Pineapple Dam and follow the shoreline in a clockwise direction

shing mun (Pineapple Dam Nature Trail to Shing Mun Jogging Trail). There are more points of interest early on in the trail and you can turn back if you prefer a shorter stroll rather than going all the way around the reservoir.

The adventurous way For those who are up for more of a challenge there are several routes you can follow.

Primarily the Lung Mun Trail heading West or joining the Wilson and Maclehose trail. If you combine the two trails, you can even make a loop via Needle Hill. For the courageous, take a river walk up Tai Shing Stream.

On a clear day, a gap in the foliage may reveal framed views of Tsuen Wan, Kowloon and the Island behind. Back at the reservoir, the final leg of any route you take is particularly pleasant, walking along a flat paved surface under large shady trees that cloak the water’s edge. Take a breather down here, soak up the tranquil atmosphere and capture relaxing views across the water.

Rory Mackay runs adventure company Wild Hong Kong. For more details visit wildhongkong.com

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cover story

SEIZE THE DAY

Nicole Slater meets the people removing the stigma around mental health in Hong Kong 20 | SOUTHSIDE

This year has been especially tough on the mental wellbeing of many Hongkongers.

From job cuts to political tension, many people are rightly feeling nervous about the future.

Research conducted by Mind HK earlier this year, shows one in seven people in Hong Kong will experience mental health issues in their lifetime, but only one in four will seek help.

mental health

Dr Hannah Reidy Mind HK

Local mental health charity, Mind HK offers programmes seeking to improve understanding of mental health and remove the stigma around it. Since joining the team before its launch in 2017, Reidy is on a mission to ensure no one in Hong Kong has to face a mental health problem alone. Since its beginnings, the team have trained over 4000 people in mental health literacy and teamed up with over 35 organisations over the years, including the most recent youth initiative, Coolminds, with KELY Support Group.

Has the stigma surrounding mental health improved?

While the stigma around mental health in Hong Kong has improved since the pandemic, many people are still suffering in silence.

It’s time to start the conversation.

This month we speak to councillors and charity organisations across the city doing their part to keep us thinking positively about the future.

Since the pandemic started, there is no doubt that things have improved and people are more willing to talk about their feelings and emotions linked with the pandemic.

However, there is still an assumption that a mental health problem is something relatively severe, rather than being on a spectrum with good mental health. Many organisations in Hong Kong, including the government, are putting in place strategies to help. These range from small scale groups and activities to join people together, through to larger scale campaigns and information giving. However, we all need to do more. The government and local institutions can continue to promote and provide support for mental health problems and also promote mental well-being as a whole.

What initiatives have you focused on this year?

Our 2020 World Mental Health Day campaign “Behind the Mask” shows Hongkongers that it is normal to feel a number of ways because of the Covid-19 pandemic. Behind the mask, everyone has found this year to be tough, myself included. I’m so proud of how Mind HK has reacted to help people with their mental health across 2020. That doesn’t negate the fact that it has been stressful running an organisation through such unpredictable times, especially when NGOs are needed more than ever. I am expecting my first baby at the end of October. I’m extremely excited about this, but also have some worries about bringing a child into the world in the middle of a pandemic. It helps a lot to know that we all have stressors, that it is okay to talk about them and most importantly - that it is okay to ask how others are doing.

Does working culture have a negative effect?

Hong Kong has some of the longest working hours in the world. More than 50 hours a week is the norm for many. This makes work life balance difficult. People often feel like they don’t have the time to do things that may keep them well like exercise and socialising. This has actually proven especially hard during Covid-19. The culture of presenteeism means that often mental health problems go unnoticed, as people show up to work despite not feeling well mentally.

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cover story

Jessica Yeung

Common Care Central

Through her own personal experience with mental health, Jessica Yeung founded Common Care Central, an online mental health resource, to help those needing a convenient and affordable form of therapy. With sessions available seven days a week, Yeung is on a mission to normalise mental health and increase access to mental healthcare.

What makes Common Care Central unique?

Making therapy convenient, comfortable, affordable and safe is my priority. As a full-service online therapy platform we offer one-onone online counselling through video and internet phone sessions.

While many of our clients are based in Asia, our services are available

Dr Ivan Chow

Family medicine specialist

Dr Ivan Chow is a physician in family medicine who has worked in primary care for 15 years. He treats his patients with a holistic approach, managing their physical, emotional, spiritual and social aspects. Currently, he is based at a clinic providing primary and speciality care services.

What are the most common issues you encounter?

Anxiety and depression. This year in particular has seen a rise in patients experiencing mood problems and those who have recovered from mood problems are having relapses. I encourage everyone to pay more attention to themselves, think positively, engage in physical activity and don’t let the fear of being labelled with a mental illness prevent you from seeking help.

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What are some warning signs to look out for?

If the following warning signs occur, I will suggest they seek help from a mental health professional: Dramatic changes in sleep and appetite, decline in personal care, social withdrawal, loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed, drop in functioning, problems with concentration, memory and speech, loss of motivation, suspiciousness of others and suicidal ideas or deliberate self-harm.

What advice do you have for people close to someone suffering?

Listen, give support and encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings. Learn about the symptoms, causes and consequences. Don’t say things like, calm down or stop stressing.

Feeling depressed or anxious is not a choice.

around the world, which is beneficial to those who travel a lot.

How can people start?

Getting started is the hardest part. I would say that there are two things that are important when you are considering beginning therapy: First: Finding a therapist you feel comfortable and suits you is the most important part. I personally had a costly trial-and-error experience when finding a good match, so our platform provides a service that helps you find a suitable match by considering your needs, preferences, and budget.

Second: it’s important to go in with the right expectations on what therapy is about. Therapy is a therapeutic alliance and it takes hard work, persistence and patience. Healing takes time.

mental health

Glen Heyburgh Centre Minds

Growing up, Glen Heyburgh was always compassionate and ready to help others.

After fighting his own battles he decided to study psychology and help give back to society. Heyburgh joined Centre Minds in 2018 and has been a listening ear to those who feel alone, unheard, irrelevant or unwelcome.

Is there stigma around mental health in Hong Kong?

Do you have advice for those struggling this year?

How you respond to stress during the Covid-19 pandemic can depend on your background, support system, financial situation and many other factors.

Excessive stress can affect your body, take care of your mental health and seek help from a qualified professional.

What about couples?

There is a social stigma attached to mental health, however this is not unique to Hong Kong. The more mental illness remains hidden, the more people think it’s something to be ashamed of. Most discrimination comes from people who have little or no experience of mental illness. Try to consider it as their problem, not yours.

Lockdown rules have forced couples to spend longer periods of time together.

These periods of close contact have acted as a stressor, which has intensified negative relationship behaviours and dissatisfaction for couples with existing vulnerabilities. Couples could constructively deal with conflict by working together towards solving issues and responding sensitively when the other is feeling stressed.

Dr Mark Greene and Dr Michael Eason Lifespan Counselling With over three decades of counselling experience between them, Dr. Mark Greene and Dr. Michael Eason founded Lifespan Counselling. The boutique psychology group practice has a diverse team offering support for a wide range of topics including addiction, depression, stress, relationship issues and child therapy.

What advice do you have for those suffering this year?

In psychology, there is a concept known as post-traumatic growth (PTG); that is, we can grow and evolve from challenging experiences. If we can accept the temporary nature of events in life, then 2020 certainly provides many long-term opportunities for growth and an awareness of resiliency.

What are the most common issues you handle?

In Hong Kong, many people struggle with work/life balance issues, which in turn lead to stress, depression, addiction and relationship difficulties. By treating mental health like any other health concern, we can further encourage people to seek counselling when facing issues that impact them psychologically.

Do you have any advice for people wanting to start?

Reaching out to someone you trust and asking if they have any personal referrals is a good idea. If you view seeking help as an empowering process, you begin therapy from a position of strength and self-awareness.

If you or anyone you know needs help, please contact the Hong Kong Samaritans 24-hour hotline, 2896 0000 Common Care Central commoncarecentral.com Lifespan Counselling lifespancounselling.com Centre Minds centreminds.com Mind HK mind.org.hk

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dining

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Photo: Instagram: eatswithkally

Dining

dining

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dining

Life’s a picnic Nikita Agrawal and Katrina Lau round up the best picnic spots in the city

With cooler days approaching, there is no better time to bask in the sunshine and enjoy an alfresco adventure. Grab your blanket, pack basket or order a luxurious spread and enjoy these perfect picnic spots.

Cyberport Waterfront Park Keep it local and enjoy a lazy Sunday at the waterfront park tucked behind the Cyberport Arcade. The area is perfect for people-watching and picnicking on it’s expensive grass lawn.

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Since the park is dog-friendly even your pooch can join in the fun.

Victoria Peak Garden A short 15-minute walk from The Peak Galleria awaits a lush meadow perfect for a picnic in the mountains. The Victorian-style pagodas and garden layout emanate an old school charm that you’d be hard pressed elsewhere in Hong Kong. Take a detour to enjoy a picnic in this elegant space before finishing your hike up Mount High West.

picnics West Kowloon Art Park The vibrant waterfront promenade has taken Instagram by storm this year for its open lawn and panoramic views over Victoria Harbour. Being a part of the bigger cultural district, the Art Park occasionally hosts live performances, so you can catch some chill tunes from the comfort of your picnic mat.

With restaurants and cafes scattered across the park, you can fuel up on some fresh coffee or sundowner during your visit.

Kwun Tong Promenade The Kwun Tong Promenade is another local waterfront park with picturesque views of the Hong Kong harbour. Get together with a couple of friends and set up your picnic on the grassy area close to the boardwalk.

Formerly a landfill site, Jordan Valley Park has cleaned up well. It is now the largest

park in Kwun Tong District with numerous outdoor facilities.

Tamar Park Conveniently located in the heart of Admiralty, Tamar Park is an obvious choice for an outdoor escape. The park offers panoramic views of the Hong Kong skyline, so you can sit back and relax while looking out over the city’s iconic harbour. Leading straight to Central Harbourfront, you can burn off that al fresco feast after.

Inspiration Lake Getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some Disney magic at Inspiration Lake. Don’t worry about not bringing enough food as there is a tuck shop on site to keep you satisfied.

Picnic Hampers Rajasthan Rifles Spice up your lunch date with Rajasthan Rifles picnic baskets. Enjoy the panoramic views from the Peak while munching on samosa chutneys, fruits, club sandwiches and desserts. The basket is available every Thursday to Sunday and includes blankets, enamel flatware and a flask. rajasthanrifles.com Brick Lane Care for a hip and stylish picnic? Brick Lane is offering three sets of hampers – Baron, Earl and Duke, designed to serve two, four and six people. The British kitchen has put together everything you need, from the basic sandwiches and scones to truffle fries and brownies. bricklane.com.hk

The Ritz-Carlton The Ritz-Carlton has introduced a swanky new picnic on-the-go service. Order a picnic basket from the hotel and have it delivered and set up for you at West Kowloon Nursery Park. The basket features an array of gourmet delicacies including a charcuterie selection, finger sandwiches and freshly made juices. ritzcarlton.com

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nibbles

Nibbles Monsoon season has arrived A new Southeast Asian-inspired restaurant, Monsoon has opened its doors in ELEMENTS. The restaurant, led by award-winning chef Will Meyrick, serves up Southeast Asian street food with a modern twist, including Indonesian Wagyu Beef Rendang, Salmon

Amok and Kampung Snicker. The tropical decor and extensive range of fruity cocktails will transport you to the white sandy beaches of Thailand, perfect for these travel free months. Monsoon also offers a weekday set lunch and daily free-flow drinks package. monsoonoriental.com.hk

Mad Three for coffee

Breakfast by the bay

Situated at the corner on Ap Lei Chau Main Street, a new local petit cafe has recently opened its doors.

Decorated with rustic styles and comfortable seats, the cafe is run by three men who serve Taiwanese treats including their signature Taiwanese braised pork rice and multi-flavoured egg rolls. The cafe is currently holding a discount for the pandemic where you can get free Taiwanese white gourd tea with each takeaway item you purchase.

Shek O’s popular beachside restaurant Cococabana is now offering a selection of breakfast delights from 9-11.30am. Standouts from the menu include smashed avocado toast, egg white omelettes and Croquemonsieur along with classic items such as a full English and eggs benedict. All breakfast items are served with tea or coffee for an extra $25. toptables.com.hk

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nibbles Chill out at Treasure Island Set on the picturesque Pui O beach, Treasure Island Beach Club is easily one of the most relaxing hangouts on South Lantau. The al fresco restaurant and bar offers family favourite dishes alongside a range of vegetarian and vegan choices. Open Friday afternoons, as well as weekends and public holidays, guests can enjoy live DJ performances while watching the sun set over the beach. You can also rent out water sports equipment from the Beach Club or make it into a staycation at one of its cabana rooms or all-inclusive private camp rentals. treasureislandhk.com

Bubbles & Wines opens in Stanley Cosy down this autumn at Stanley’s new wine room, Bubbles & Wines. Tucked away

Tea Saloon relocates to Wong Chuk Hang After departing it’s much loved tea room located in Mid-Levels earlier in the year, Tea Saloon by AnotherFineDay found a new home in Southside. Located in Wong Chuk Hang, the tea room produces cakes

on Stanley Main Street, the wine room has a living room-like atmosphere and offers a selection of cheeses, charcuterie and a range of champagnes and wines.

and tea snacks and offers a central kitchen, workshop and private event space for those looking for a laid-back party setting. “It’s time for us to refocus on what we do best, developing our brand through products and experiences that make every day a fine day,” says Karen, owner of AnotherFineDay.

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pets

Ask a vet Dr Pauline Taylor shares her thoughts on the latest dog poisonings Dr Pauline Pets Central veterinarian A new spate of sudden dog deaths around Sai Kung and Southside is worrying and I want to encourage dog-owners to always be alert when taking your dog for a walk, keep your dog in your eyesight at all times. When I arrived in Hong Kong in 1995 one of the first things my boss told me to be aware of was poisonings along Bowen Road and Blacks Link on Hong Kong Island.

At the time I had no idea that I would soon be saving the dog of the last Governor of Hong Kong, Whiskey Patton, a small, lovable, but greedy Norfolk terrier that ate poison on Blacks Link.

Over the years a variety of different poisons have been involved, some identified by chemists, many not. They include slug and rat killers, weed destroyers, insecticide and worm and mite nerve paralyzing agents. Many are easy to purchase over the counter. The poison used recently on the Island is deep pink granules mixed with an aroma-strong snack of tasty fresh food laid near starting points of common walks.

Once eaten, it’s a race to the death to get the poisoned food out of the dog’s stomach by whatever means possible. Vets use drugs to make a dog vomit,

but by the time this happens, it’s usually too late. Vets will do everything in their power to save a poisoned dog, but in reality this is not an easy task.

What to do if you suspect your dog has eaten poison: • Try and remove the poison from the dog’s body • Get a photo or sample of what your dog may have eaten • If the suspected poison has already been swallowed then making your dog vomit is critical and as soon as possible • Give salty water if you can.

I’ve also recommended washing soda lumps pushed over the throat followed by some water to wash it down. (Pets Central Animal Welfare Foundation provides samples of washing soda free of charge at any of our clinics or hospital) • Immediately call a nearby vet.

Any vet. Let them know what is happening to give them time to prepare.

• If your dog loves eating things on walks consider muzzling them We just don’t know who is poisoning dogs. Don’t push the wrong buttons with people who may want your dog to go away forever.

Got a question for Dr. Pauline?

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woof

Walkies

Rex the dog tackles Sharp Peak With autumnal winds blowing, some of Hong Kong’s tougher hikes are more appealing. One of those hikes is the steady incline up to Sharp Peak in Sai Kung East Country Park. You’ll need at least seven hours to conquer this 15km hike, the summit sits at 468 meters above sea level.

Be sure to bring plenty of snacks and water for you and your pooch. The hike begins at the end of Section two of the MacLehose Trail and stretches the entire width of the country park.

The gravelly trail is unrelenting but on a clear day the sweeping views of Hong Kong out across the beaches of Tai Long Wan and the vast ocean are breathtaking. As you reach the summit, you’ll find both yourself and your canine friend scrambling to keep a hold in places so make safety a number one priority and if in doubt, head back in the direction in which you came.

How to get there: Take a taxi from Sai Kung Town to Pak Tam Au (around $100).

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southside secrets

Haunted Murray House Nicole Slater investigates the gruesome past of Stanley’s Victorian building While you may recognise the Murray House as a serene Victorian style building on Stanley’s waterfront promenade, its dark history may leave you skeptical about stepping inside.

Originally located on Queen’s Road East, Murray House was built in 1844 as the officers’ quarters for the British Army, Murray Barracks. During the imperial Japanese occupation of Hong Kong in 1941, the house was taken over by the Japanese military police and remained their headquarters for three year and eight months.

During that time Murray House contained a detention centre and execution area in the westeren part of the building. It is believed that over 4,000 Chinese citizens were tortured and murdered on the premises.

After the Second World War, the house was handed over to the Hong Kong government and several department officers moved in.

Many workers reported ghost sights and odd occurrences including blueprints being tampered with and equipment breaking down in the western part of the building for no apparent reason.

The reports were so troubling that in 1963 the government brought in 90 Buddhist monks to perform an exorcism at the house in an attempt to free the lost souls. The ritual took a grueling 10-hours to complete. Despite their best efforts the reports didn’t stop and a second, televised exorcism was held in 1974.

No further activity has been reported since.

To make room for the current Bank of China building, Murray House was

dismantled and moved to Southside in 1990. The building’s resurrection took over 10 years, officially reopening in 2002.

Unfortunately the relocation project failed to meet the international standard for heritage preservation and lost its Grade I status.

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zim city

Queen Mary Hospital expansion Paul Zimmerman addresses the infrastructural problems at QMH The expansion of Queen Mary Hospital (QMH) is well under way. The foundation and slope works are nearing completion and work on the superstructure will start soon.

The 30-storey New Block will be Asia’s tallest hospital and one of the largest hospital buildings in the world. It will be commissioned for operations in 2024.

In the funding proposal to the Legislative Council it was recognised that this redevelopment needed to also address infrastructural problems at QMH. The main entrance is connected to a single narrow two-lane road being shared by ambulances, services traffic and public transport.

The New Block will provide a badly needed second access. An internal ramp will take traffic from Pok Fu Lam Road to the facilities lying uphill.

We have reminded QMH that any entrance along Pok Fu Lam Road must be carefully designed. However, recently discovered plans show that those involved (QMH, Hospital Authority and Architectural Services Department) have ignored our warnings.

Engineers of The Pok Fu Lam Residents Alliance have determined that the design is dangerous. Hundreds of Pok Fu Lam residents have lodged objections.

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The design requires vehicles to come to a complete dead stop - right where buses, mini buses and private cars, exit Pok Fu Lam Road to go to Sassoon Road and the existing entrance to the hospital. It is a busy slip road.

During peak hours, one vehicle exits here every three seconds. We understand that at least 200 ambulances, trucks, and staff cars will use this new entrance every day. That will be many more when the existing entrance is blocked.

Making changes is proving to be difficult as the $13.5-billion project is outsourced to and delivered through a design-and-build contract. In a first response QMH has offered a minor improvement by swapping the entrance and exit. This would avoid structural changes but sightlines for traffic would remain insufficient. Ideally the building is lifted up and a floor is added, creating space for traffic to manoeuvre and exit Pok Fu Lam Road smoothly. It is mind boggling how the designers and bureaucrats involved in building a hospital can play footloose with road safety. They also have yet to answer questions about future bus and mini bus drop offs for the staff and how the new MTR will be connected.

Changes will have to be made, irrespective of time and money. It is unacceptable for Asia’s tallest hospital to endanger traffic along Pok Fu Lam Road. We are a smart city. Correct?

Paul Zimmerman is the CEO of Designing Hong Kong, a Southern District Councillor and the co-convenor of Save Our Country Parks alliance.

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