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  • 5 Tips for Saving Money

    5 Tips for Saving Money

    Sаvіng mоnеу can bе as ѕіmрlе as 1, 2, 3, аѕ уоu’ll ѕее іn these 5 ԛuісk аnd еаѕу tips in managing уоur реrѕоnаl finances.

    1. The 30 day rule

    Wait 30 days before making a purchase to have a better perspective if the item is valuable and avoid urge buying.

    2. Make a Shopping List

    Shop only when you have a list to save money and get rid of impulse buying.

    3. Drink More Water

    The only drink with great health and financial benefits. It will make your body properly hydrated and make you spend less on beverages like pop or juice.

    4. The 10 Second Rule

    Before you put the item in your cart, STOP for 10 second. Ask yourself “Why do I need to buy this?” and “Do I actually need this?”. If there is no reasonable answer, then put them back.. you don’t need it!

    5. Avoid Convenience Foods

    Goods at convenience store are expensive, you might want to consider preparing healthy snacks and meals for your trip and save money instead.

  • 5 Reasons Why Finland has the Best Education System

    5 Reasons Why Finland has the Best Education System

    In an ever-changing world, children from generation to generation have had different ways of learning but one thing seems to remain – poor education systems. People believe that the only way to a person’s success is through education. But what if the system isn’t working anymore?

    Finland, which shocked the world with their unique education system, has awakened other countries on what an effective school system should be. Being the top in global education systems, Finland believes that kids need more time playing and discovering other things than staying in school eight hours a day.

    Here are the Top 5 Reasons that make Finland’s educational system unparalleled:

    1. Teachers are highly paid and well-respected.

    Unlike other countries especially the U.S., teachers in Finland are not underpaid and teaching is one of the most respected professions. Teachers are valued a lot for childhood is considered a foundation for lifelong development and success.

    2. Homework isn’t a big deal.

    We thought homework helps our kids learn while they are at home. Well, Finland believes children need more time with their family instead of giving them extra work after school. Their lack of homework makes them more engaged and attentive when in school. The schools give their students more time to be kids and enjoy life while they’re young.

    3. More playtimes, less stress.

    While other schools in the world require a straight 45-minute to a 1-hour class discussion, Finnish schools require 15 minutes of play for every 45 minutes of instruction. Kids have the freedom to enjoy at the school playground where the equipment were chosen and suggested by the students themselves. Their school time is only 20 hours per week compared to the standard time students from other countries spend. They have the shortest school days and school years in the entire Western world.

    4. There’s no reason to compete.

    Schools are expected to cooperate than to compete. In Finland, there is no private school. Learning institutions are funded by public money. Standardized testing isn’t even a thing. Teachers are trained to issue their own tests and are trusted to do well without the motivation of competition. 

    5. Arts and Music are as important as Math and Science.

    As opposed to the traditional school curriculums, Finnish schools treat Music and Arts with equal importance as the major academic subjects. Teachers believe that these help students develop their brain capacity more than just learning Math or Science. It also helps discover their hidden talents. They say school is about finding happiness and supporting the children’s passion. 

    These factors may not seem to have a sense or are against the Orthodox educational system. These unconventional approaches to learning have raised some eyebrows as they are very different from what we usually have in a normal school setup. But for Finland, they find it to be very effective in helping the kids learn better by cutting the school days into half, giving them less homework, and allowing them to enjoy life and experience more while they are still young.

    It may sound unsatisfying to some, but the Finnish school system may have found the best way to make their students happily educated.

  • BTS Faces Racism after MTV Unplugged Performance

    BTS Faces Racism after MTV Unplugged Performance

    The Bangtan Sonyeondan, more popularly known as BTS, is genuinely one of the biggest boy bands in the world today.

    The seven men in the group, namely, RM, Seokjin, SUGA, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook’s rise to fame, is not without controversy and bouts of racist jabs.

    On February 23, 2021, the group teamed with MTV and released a special MTV Unplugged edition from the “BE” album.

    They showcased Telepathy, Blue & Grey, Dynamite, Life Went On and covered Coldplay’s “Fix You,” which delighted many fans of both groups throughout the world.

    However, a German radio host throws racist commentaries about the group. With a disdainful criticism and remark of likening the group to a “virus that needs to have a vaccine soon.”

    https://twitter.com/BTS_UPDATES_GER/status/1365026507014479876

    What rooted this hateful comment? Presenter Matthias Mautschik of Bayern 3 called it blasphemous that BTS had the gall to cover Coldplay’s “Fix You.” Additionally, stating the group needs to be punished and sent “to North Korea” and 20 years!

    It is an unacceptable and irresponsible approach, especially with the global xenophobic and racist attacks on all Asians during these times.
    The said individual then retracted his words and saying it was only a jest.

    Would you say it’s an issue blown out of proportion? Or was the presenter really at fault?

  • BIGBANG’s G-Dragon and BLACKPINK’s Jennie, The New KPOP Royalty Couple?

    BIGBANG’s G-Dragon and BLACKPINK’s Jennie, The New KPOP Royalty Couple?

    It came like a “Bang, bang, bang!” to all of their fans when Dispatch revealed that BIGBANG’s G-DRAGON and BLACKPINK’s Jennie are now the latest KPOP royalty couple. And they have been dating already for a year!

    In fact, these two instantly became trending topics on Twitter and other SNS platforms!

    Dispatch is quite known for its exclusive scoops on celebrities and claimed to have had seen G-Dragon and Jennie meet each other discreetly. Where and how?

    Well, as high-profile celebrities, they had dates at the comfort of their respective homes.

    They enjoy their private time by hanging out a G-Dragon’s Hannam-dong penthouse. Because of its strict and verification procedure, it’s an ideal place to avoid unwanted attention. What’s more, the penthouse has its private entrance that Dispatch affirms, seeing Jennie used it.

    What does YG entertainment, both of the KPOP stars’ agency have to say about it?

    “It is difficult for the company to confirm as it is the artists’ personal life. We ask for your understanding.” -YG entertainment.

    Do you think they’ll confirm their real relationship anytime soon?

  • The Three Bucket Strategy

    The Three Bucket Strategy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJSOs67F5z0

    source

    The video shows the 3 bucket strategy that you can apply for you Long, Mid and Short Term Finance Goal.

  • Coffee Reduces Spread of Colon Cancer

    Coffee Reduces Spread of Colon Cancer

    Metastatic colorectal cancer remains to be incurable in most cases. A new study revealed that coffee slows down the spread of colon cancer resulting in longer survival of patients.

    “In 1,171 patients treated for metastatic colorectal cancer, those who reported drinking two to three cups of coffee a day were likely to live longer overall, and had a longer time before their disease worsened, than those who didn’t drink coffee,” Harvard Gazette reported.

    Moreover, patients who drank more than four cups of coffee a day attained greater benefit in these measures. Benefit held whether patients drank caffeinated or decaffeinated coffee.

    “Patients who consumed up to a single cup of coffee per day tended to survive 30 months post-diagnosis. But those who drank two or three cups daily survived 32 months. And those who consumed four or more cups a day saw their survival shoot up to 39 months,” co-lead author Christopher Mackintosh, a fourth-year medical student at the Mayo Clinic School of Medicine in Phoenix, stated.

    According to Mackintosh, this new study pioneered in studying the effects of coffee on metastatic colorectal cancer patients. Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and other properties found in coffee may be active against cancer.

    Despite the findings, Mackintosh warned patients about the drastic increase in coffee consumption.

    “If someone is a colorectal cancer patient and enjoys drinking coffee, they can continue to do so without fear of worsening cancer prognosis. Of course, decisions like these should always be discussed on a case-by-case basis with one’s personal health care professionals,” Mackintosh said.

    Sources: https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2020/09/coffee-linked-to-improved-survival-in-metastatic-colorectal-cancer/

    https://www.webmd.com/colorectal-cancer/news/20200917/coffee-may-slow-spread-of-colon-cancer?src=RSS_PUBLIC#2

  • 5 Natural Herbs to Improve Sleep

    5 Natural Herbs to Improve Sleep

    The ongoing effects of COVID-19 and other matters that we are facing at present have been attributed to anxieties and doubts that made us difficult to sleep at night. So here are natural herbs to improve sleep routine and combat mental stress.

    1. Wild Lettuce

    Wild lettuce is beneficial for a person who suffers from insomnia and restlessness. It has a calming effect that is good for anxieties. Plus, this herb is being used to relieve pain, and it is a good choice for kids

    2. Lemon Balm

    Another type of herb that can improve the quality of sleep is Lemon Balm. Its Citrus smell has a relaxing effect on the mind and body that can aid you to sleep. Moreover, it can also increase cognitive performance.

    Interestingly, Lemon Balm is a super-herb due to its various benefits. It can boost one’s immune system because Lemon balm is rich in antioxidant.

    3. Lavender

    Lavender is also known for combating insomnia. Its essential oil can also improve the nervous system tonic. This herb is popular as used in aromatherapy. Respectively, lavender has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that are beneficial to one’s health.

    4. Chamomile

    One of the natural herbs to improve sleep is chamomile. When you are having a hard time falling asleep, chamomile can aid you with your problem because it can relax your mind, relieve anxieties, and reduce mental stress. Not to mention, using this herb is safe for all ages.

    5. Passion Flower

    Another herb that has a sedative effect that can calm one’s mind is Passion Flower. People who are suffering from panic and anxiety attacks use Passion Flower as a natural remedy.

    References: (1) https://www.plushbeds.com/blogs/green-sleep/10-natural-herbs-for-sleep
    (2) https://www.verywellmind.com/lavender-for-less-anxiety-3

  • How Many Calories are There in Your Coffee?

    How Many Calories are There in Your Coffee?

    People have different preferences when it comes to morning coffee. This article will help you know how many calories are there in your coffee. You do not have to quit caffeine when you are trying to lose weight because there’s a type of coffee that obtains a minimal calorie count.

    The Varying Amount of Calories in Your Coffee

    1Black Coffee

    If you are shedding calories, black coffee is your best cup. According to Mayo Clinic, a cup of black coffee has only five calories. Making your coffee fancier like adding some milk and sweetener can increase the calories in your coffee.

    2. Instant Coffee

    Instant coffee is popular among Filipino because of its accessibility and affordability. Every store has various brands of instant coffee. Based on the data obtained from Nescafe 3-in-1 coffee, this type of coffee has 72 calories per cup of coffee.

    3Cafe Mocha

    Cafe Mocha is a go-to coffee beverage for people who prefer a bit of chocolate taste. The commercial cafe mocha has 250 calories depending on your milk.

    4. Latte

    Speaking of milk, lattes ,and cappuccino are the best types of coffee that you can consider. If you are a latte lover, an average of a small cup with 220 ml of milk attains 120 calories. Plus, it has another 16 calories for every teaspoon of sugar.

    5Cappuccino

    Cappuccino, on the other hand, has 68 calories when you prefer mixing it with skim milk. For cappuccino with regular milk, it has 150 calories for every cup of it.

    To add more knowledge about coffee, the difference between cappuccino and latte is the ration of milk and foam. Latte has more milk and lesser foam while cappuccino has lesser milk but has more foam

    6. Kopi C

    Kopi C is a type of coffee that is mixed with evaporated milk and sugar. It contains 90 calories per serving. Moreover, coffee with condensed milk obtains higher calories with 135 per serving.

    7. Iced coffee

    Another type of coffee is iced coffee. As mentioned earlier, coffee has varying amount of calories depending on your preferred add-ons.

    8. Frappucino

     Frappuccino, on the other hand, has the utmost calories among coffee. It has 240 calories if you prefer it with whipped cream (100 calories). Based on the article of Starbucks, Mocha Frappuccino grande (16 fl oz) size has 410 calories.

    9. Caffè Macchiato

    Italian caffè macchiato has 13 calories for every 60ml. This type of coffee is a combination of espresso coffee and a bit of milk. Compared to other coffee, macchiato has a stronger taste of coffee than milk.

  • What will Happen to Travel Plans After COVID-19 Pandemic

    What will Happen to Travel Plans After COVID-19 Pandemic

    People have different outlook with their respective travel plans after Covid-19. Based on the report obtained by the Guardian, despite some countries gradually ease their lockdowns, “international travel is likely to last far longer”.

    “Although the country is desperate to protect its economy, long-haul flights to its islands and beaches are almost certainly out this year,” Harry Theoharis, Greece’s tourism minister, told the Guardian.

    Respectively, most countries are hesitant to reopen due to the risk of having a second wave of infections.

    “The leaders of Austria, Greece, Israel, Norway, Denmark, the Czech Republic, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand agreed that as each begins to ease restrictions they could capitalise on low infection rates by creating tourism safe zones,” the Guardian reported.

    “Israel, Greece and Cyprus – tourist-dependent nations – are already discussing the idea in the eastern Mediterranean, and hoping to partially open up from July,” it added.

    Authorities are prepared to shut down again once virus re-emerges during the gradual reopening of the countries.

    “These partial or total closures, while they may protect public health, come with a huge economic cost to countries dependent on tourism or other types of travel, like international students flying in for a university education. That burden might help attempts to reaccelerate opening of borders,” report mentioned.

    Various migration and travel plans after COVID-19 are uncertain. Plans were disrupted much longer.

    “For a place like Hawaii or Iceland, or maybe New Zealand, you are talking about pretty dramatically restructuring your economy not to be dependent on inter-state or international tourism [and travel],” said Prof Lindsay Wiley from the American University Washington College of Law.

    “You can protect yourselves by isolating the entire jurisdiction, but then you have to think through how you restructure your whole economy if you aren’t going to allow travel.” she added.

  • 10 Natural Foods that Burn Fats Around Your Belly

    10 Natural Foods that Burn Fats Around Your Belly

    Reducing fats around your belly is very challenging. Check out these natural foods that burn fats around your belly. Apart from the ability to burn fats, these natural foods obtain other helpful benefits.

    1. Apple Cider

    Apple cider is beneficial for boosting metabolism. It is high in acetic acid which will slow down the rate of sugar entering your bloodstream. It keeps your sugar level stable. Plus, it helps to produce protein. Ideally, adding a tablespoon of apple cider to your cup of tea is very helpful.

    2. Almonds

    Are you looking for a healthy snack and at the same time can burn fats? Almonds are the best to consider. It obtains monounsaturated fats that can reduce the risk of having heart diseases and less likely to be stored as body fat. Even more, it is good for people who are having intermittent fasting. It has fiber and protein that will help you to feel full for a long time.

    3. Cinnamon

    Cinnamon contains antioxidants that can improve insulin sensitivity. What’s more, according to Karen McCarthy, cinnamon reduces visceral fats that are found in human’s belly.

    4. Dark chocolates

    Dark chocolates are made up of cacao which has high in antioxidants. Surprisingly, it is included in the list of foods that burn fats. It can burn your fats as long as you make sure that it does not have artificial sweeteners.

    “Good-quality dark chocolate provides a portion of the same healthy benefits of most leafy green vegetables,” Weight Watchers stated.

    “The flavonoids in dark chocolate help reduce insulin resistance and prevent spikes in bloodsugar levels, discouraging you from overeating,” it added.

    5. Cherries

    Eating cherries have been found to reduce belly fat. It is a super fruit for people who want to reduce weight. It has a high content of anti-oxidant.

    “A study from the University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center found that when rats consumed just 2 percent of their calories from blueberries over a 90-day period, they significantly reduced their percentage of belly fat,” Erin Palinski-Wade stated.

    6. Salmon

    Eating salmon keeps you full for a long period. It has healthy fat and protein which is very beneficial for you. On top of that, food that is high in protein requires more energy and calories to burn it.

    7. Cayenne pepper

    The Cayenne pepper does not only give taste to your food. It can also increase your metabolism and burn your fats. “A teaspoon of cayenne pepper might cause you to burn an extra ten or twenty calories per day, but it takes 3,500 calories to burn off a pound of fat,” Monica Reinagel stated.

    8. Avocado

    Avocado is a flat-belly food because it can prevent fat distribution around your belly. This can also make you full for a longer time since it stays for a longer time. Avocado can be incorporated into every meal. It can be added to your toast and salad.

    9. Sweet Potatoes

    Sweet potatoes obtain good carbohydrates that can stabilize your blood sugar level. Plus, it also makes you feel full for a long time which can reduce your cravings and snack time.

    10. Lean meat

    Like Salmon, lean meat is rich in protein. It is effective if you are aiming to shed some extra pounds of your weight and reduce some belly fat.

    Benefits of Eating Natural Foods that Burn Fats

    Aside from the ability to burn fats, the natural foods listed above are common to reduce the risks of having heart diseases and type two Diabetes. Plus, this food can help you build muscle and maintain a healthy weight. Do not forget these beneficial flat-belly foods in your diet.