Celebrating women for who they are
We’ve all got some special women in our lives who make things worth the while. So with International Women’s Day just around the corner again this year (someone also say, “It’s March already?!”) here are some ideas to tell our leading ladies how much they mean to us – in the most memorable, least cookie-cutter ways.
Spend time with the woman/women in your family
This might seem like a no-brainer. But maybe because it is – we might have neglected spending quality time and having that uninterrupted, precious tête-à-tête with our mum, wife or sister.
In fact, the daily grind might have seeded the subconscious thought that we live with them (or see them so often) anyway, and conversations are bound to be ordinary.
But have that ordinary chat with some cake that will work no matter the time of day. Over digging your forks into a slice (or two!) at Lady M, rediscover the beauty, strength and character of that special anchor lady in your life.
Learn about women who have made an impact
How many women do you know have left a mark on history? How about modern day women who are making waves in their communities and marketplaces; and are there any you personally know? Gather some friends and family, and make this fun by turning it into a game of trivia!
We've crossed paths with a few of such inspiring women. Here are 5 artists you should know:
- Han Sai Por, whose art sculptures can be found in several of our properties, such as the Shimmering Pearls at Capital Tower, and the Flight and Forest at the entrance of Suzhou Center, China. An inspiration for artists around the world, Han is one of Asia's leading modern sculptors and Singapore's Cultural Medallion recipient.
- The late Zaha Hadid was also the first woman to receive the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2004, the most prestigious accolade in the world of architecture. Born in Baghdad, Iraq in 1950, see her architectural brilliance is full display at the iconic d'Leedon, the largest condominium project in Singapore.
- And that famous open Nutmeg sculpture outside ION Orchard? That's Nutmeg & Mace by prominent Southeast Asian artist Kumari Nahappan. Born in Klang, Malaysia in 1953, Nahappan's works blend 'international contemporary art' with her own unique voice and visual identity, shaped by her cultural roots and beliefs.
- If you are an Eastie, you'd most definitely have seen the larger-than-life family right outside Bedok Mall. Created by Korean pop artist, Kim Gyung Min, Shopping with the Family is designed to evoke a sense of fun and cheeriness with the caricature elongated necks, big broad smiles, super long legs and oversized shoes. Snap a shot with this family when you're in the area!
- Not to forget young artists like 31-year-old Melissa Tan, who are also carving a name for themselves on international platforms like the Singapore Biennale. Working with mixed media such as acrylic on watercolour paper and
power-coated mild steel, the Singapore artist likens the unpredictability of human lives to the trajectories of space objects such as asteroids, the 1009 Sirene from the Arc of Uncertainties series is displayed at Cairnhill Nine.
It's individuals like these who inspire us to set our sights on greater things, and pursue what our hearts call us to. We're in awe!
Celebrate self-improvement and growth
They often say to look into the mirror for your biggest competition - yourself. Remember that thing that makes you nervous, but also hopeful? One of the best ways to feel empowered, confident and light is to accomplish a seemingly daunting task, or challenge a fellow BFF to do the same. Better still - achieve a shared goal together! And it doesn't even have to be a colossal task - in fact, that's not even the point of it.
Might this goal be fitness or wellness related? Sign up for the free one-week trial at faMA at Clarke Quay, and try out Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Muay Thai. Let your victory be the true gift, and a timely reminder on how we can all do whatever we set our minds on.
Give back and support others
All around the world are many ordinary people doing wonderful things, for causes bigger than themselves. Be one of them!
Give of your time to charity organisations such as Food from the Heart, donate your used but still very wearable clothes to The Salvation Army, or be a blood donor if you fulfil the necessary health requirements.
At CapitaLand, we believe in supporting our community as well in more ways than one, because giving from the heart goes beyond the dollars and cents.
Does this sound like work more than a 'celebration'? Don't feel this way! Redefine and go beyond the conventional party definition to do something meaningful which will count for something, and create lasting memories you will keep for a long time.
Also, these make great lessons for the kids - all the very important women- (and men-) to-be's in your life.
Be your own kind of beautiful
Beauty can be defined in so many ways, from possessing inner grace to outer radiance, boldly chasing a dream to living a free-spirited life - it's probably a combination of qualities. So while the concept of beauty probably needs to be a discussion for another day, there's no harm in looking and feeling beautiful with some pampering treats! Book a shu uemura eyebrow trimming session at Bugis Junction, Tampines Mall (Isetan) or Raffles City (Robinsons); or fix a date for some exclusive hair deals at Starlight Salon in Funan.
It's not so much about the material things, but about showing appreciation, paying it forward, and being happy when you see someone important to you happy.
Spend time alone
Not in a narcissistic way of course, but with a reflective state of mind. It's the peace, calm and solitude that we all deserve from time to time - better known as 'me-time'. Which might have been compromised in the flurry of daily, busy activities.
Curl up in bed with a good read, lots of pillows, your favourite comfort food - just some suggestions! This might also be a good time to start a journaling habit, which has a host of benefits such as evoking mindfulness and thankfulness, reducing emotional stress, and strengthening self-discipline.
Personalise your own journal at Bynd Artisan at Raffles City; get creative with the flagship store's wide range of quality paper and leather notebook accessories.
If a change in environment will help you settle into reflection mode a bit better, how about a staycation? Book in advance with Ascott and enjoy up to 30% off best flexible rates at some of our serviced residence properties in Singapore.
So here's to
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories coming up in the month of March.