Esteem Magazine – Page 3 – Esteem Magazine

Missaka Wijenayaka: Providing Much-Needed Pain Relief

Missaka Wijenayaka brings over a decade of experience to our shores as he steps into the combined role of Sri Lanka’s first and only Remedial Therapist, Physiotherapist and Chiropractor. His knowledge of anatomy and physiology blend well into his treatments, providing much-needed pain relief from injuries sustained during sports, work, accidents and he also specializes in post-operative recovery, post fractures and arthritic conditions.

Missaka took the time out of his busy schedule to talk to us about Pain Management – what it is, what it isn’t, and why he chose it as a profession.

Missaka, what made you interested in Physiotherapy?

I was very interested in sports from a young age which meant injuries, which in turn lead to many visits to the physiotherapist! I liked how the physiotherapist interacted with me, so when it came to choosing a career, I decided to look closer into physiotherapy and remedial therapy. I migrated to Australia and obtained my qualifications from the University of Victoria and La Trobe University, after which I worked with various sports clubs such as the Collingwood Football Club and Melbourne Storm, a rugby league team which gave me a wealth of expertise in perfecting my skills as a Pain Management Specialist. Currently, I consult at the Vasan Hospital #423, Galle Road, Colombo 3.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Using my knowledge and skill set to bring relief from pain to all the people around me. I love dealing with so many different people and their issues: each one is different because each person is different. I enjoy getting to know patients and find it incredibly rewarding to see people get better.

Chiropractic care is not something that everybody is familiar with. What would be the simplest way to describe it?

Basically, it’s about musculoskeletal diagnosis. As a chiropractor, I use the physical assessment, motion palpation, joint mechanics, etc. to assess and alleviate people’s pain.

You have started a new concept where you perform pain relief measures (such as massages) in offices. How do you feel this will benefit staff productivity?

Today everyone, no matter what field they are in, is under tremendous stress. The success of the workforce is also causing its own productivity crisis. Many office workers develop work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs’), caused by sedentary behaviour and physical inactivity and don’t address these ailments until they get worse and they have to seek treatment. We might think that if our job role doesn’t require physical labour, we can’t injure ourselves at work, but we are at a risk of developing neck, back and shoulder conditions caused by bad posture. As a Pain Management Specialist, I help employees identify the causes of MSDs’ and provide short and long-term improvements for their ailments.

What are the advantages of remedial therapy as opposed to physiotherapy?

There is a very close relationship between physiotherapy and remedial therapy, which is relatively new to Sri Lanka. The latter is advantageous in that it is a more ‘hands-on’ type of treatment than physiotherapy because it can help treat soft tissues and restore their function. Remedial therapy aims to relieve pain, decrease muscle tension and promote healing of injured tissues. Physiotherapy, on the other hand, refers to the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of health conditions that result in pain, weakness, limited ability and degeneration. However, both types of therapy can be most effective if paired with a healthy lifestyle.

Tell us about some of the techniques you use for both types of treatment.

Remedial therapy involves the use of techniques such as Cupping Therapy, a form of alternative medicine in which special cups are put on the skin for a few minutes to create suction. The other technique I use is Dry Needling, a modern treatment designed to ease muscular pain, which penetrates the deep muscle, enabling better nerve reach and a higher rate of success in the treatment. Some of the other techniques used are kneading, trigger point therapy, myofascial releases and compression massage.

What are some of the common injuries that children sustain and how do you treat them?

Twisted ankles and playground injuries are very common amongst children. I don’t use dry needling and cupping for kids. However, chiropractor and some of the remedial therapy technique are used to relieve pain for kids

Tell us about how you treat injuries in the elderly folk.

Elderly folks have neck, hip, spinal and knee injuries, most of which have been sustained by lack of regular exercise. The majority of them have done the same type of work for long periods of time with the same methods and techniques, which also contributes in a big way to their ailments. I use techniques such as remedial therapy techniques, dry needling, cupping etc.

Thank you for your time. In terms of injury prevention in general, what would you recommend for everyone?

Regular exercise and stretching recommended because it reduces risks of injuries. Drinking plenty of water is also recommended as it is very important to keep muscles healthy, which in turn means fewer injuries. Maintaining good posture is also key.

Written by Michelle Alles

Here’s Why The Villas Wadduwa Deserves A Visit

Travelling to Wadduwa is always a treat. Sunny beaches and sun rays seem an interesting plan, and, is in fact, the order of the day. At The Villas Wadduwa, you are guaranteed to experience traditional Lankan aesthetics paired with high-end luxury at this property lying cosseted at one of the finest locations in Sri Lanka.

I am going to bill this property as the ‘ultimate experience in style and privacy in Wadduwa’, this abode of sorts delivers both in spades. The rooms are white-washed and minimal, but given a splash of opulence in the form of plush velvet-esque materials, spacious king size beds and stylish, well-placed bric-a-brac.

Day beds decked out in on-trend minimalist white next to a magnanimous pool, which is overlooked only by the property’s many coconut trees, while a vintage bullock cart is parked permanently parked at the entrance. The same aesthetic runs through the entire property, which has a quiet, paired-back luxury thanks to its use of floor-to ceiling whites and minimalistic fixtures.

The swimming pool tends to be the focal points of the property with the cerulean pool appearing to bleed into the ocean so seamlessly that you might feel you’re out at sea.

But if you’re looking for outdoor activities, to get a culture fix or just to indulge in pure relaxation, there are endless ways to spend your days and nights at Wadduwa. But this is an experience that is reserved for the traveller who craves outdoor activity; I didn’t. I desired rest and relaxation and just some serenity and stillness, and I received this in abundance.

On a side note almost, The Villas Wadduwa belongs to the ONYX Hospitality Group, which also has Amari Galle and the OZO chain of city hotels under its burgeoning umbrella. With a conscious focus on excellence being delivered, I must make a voluntary admission that I am a huge fan of all their properties, and The Villas Wadduwa is fast becoming a firm favorite. With a nod towards Amari Galle, which I had the privilege of covering in the last issue, I’ll say that The Villas Wadduwa does it for me simply because it truly is an oasis for those who consider themselves meditative types who have a penchant for the written word.

There’s a very important aspect that needs to be mentioned and that is the delectable array of food that is offered. Buffets are great, but I must say that what will always be more discerning is an a lá carte menu that has been curated by a chef who knows his food. Sri Lankan food needs a conscious input when it comes to condiments and all other types of goodness — the chef here lacks neither the expertise or the passion when it comes to the art of churning out delicacies and that all-challenging aspect of pleasing his guests.

What better way to rest and unwind than to indulge in the local cuisine while feasting your eyes on the heady lingo courtesy of Oscar Wilde? This is exactly what I did being the epicurean I am. The rice and curry options are truly tantalizing with special attention being given to taste than presentation.

Sri Lanka has always cherished its multicultural heritage, and this is happily seen in the cuisine served at The Villas Wadduwa — the spate of cocktails on offer are exotic and yet quite local with fusion tastes being the main focus where an initial sip segues properly into a dinner that promises to elevate your taste buds into something akin to divinity.

Let’s talk breakfast, which is a must while enjoying the surrealist sunrise that slowly spins upwards, as you rise up from a bed that is indubitably one of the best places to rest and dream in Wadduwa. Breakfast consists of a choice — Kiribath is what I ordered: that milky and serendipitous dish that is resplendent of all things Lankan. The lunu miris was on point with spice and sourness beckoning a spurt of saliva while that chicken curry is truly something a gourmand would adore.

Mandatory — this is one word I would generously use to encourage you to visit this fine and architecturally-pleasing property. Rest and relaxation is a running theme here and the aspect of hospitality is something that is used to great effect by its staff. Sri Lanka is all about warmth and generosity, and this is something that The Villas Wadduwa offers you in abundance.

Written by Rohitha Perera

Photography by Sampath Munaweera

Kemara launches Kemara Cuisine

100% gluten, refined sugar, grain, and dairy-free meals promote clean-eating without compromising on flavour

Prioritizing nutrition amidst a busy schedule is a dilemma faced by many in Sri Lanka. Food-related predicaments come in many forms: diabetes, IBS, gluten, dairy & grain allergies, etc., and a blanket solution is hard to come by. To counter these concerns, leading wellness brand Kemara has launched Kemara Cuisine: a clean-eating menu and meal plan, with vegan and non-vegan options, that is wholesome and delicious.

Kemara hosted an elegant garden party at their premises at Lakpahana, where guests were pleasantly surprised at being able to experience all of their favourite foods -kottu, wraps, desserts and more- prepared in a much healthier form, without having compromised on taste. Kemara Cuisine is centered around the clean-eating movement -where whole food is consumed in its least processed state- and all options are 100% free of gluten, grains, refined sugars and dairy. The focus being on how the incorporation of fresh, organic ingredients into meals is key to achieving and maintaining long-term, sustainable, and healthy lifestyle goals.

“Many are of the impression that the four-letter ‘d’-word equates to extreme food restrictions and deprivation as a result of lack of choices,” says Kishani Gunewardena -holistic therapist and founder of Kemara -, speaking of self-enforced and medically prescribed diets. “With Kemara Cuisine we promise that the healthier alternatives we offer will be something you crave as much as -or even more than- the foods advised against. We want you, quite literally, to fall in love with food all over again!”

Variety will certainly be on the cards, as the culinary team at Kemara will be curating weekly menus using quality local and seasonal produce.

By using alternative ingredients such as coconut flakes, cacao powder, and chicory root, along with other permissible foods such as nuts, healthful oils, and organic fruits & vegetables, customers will be provided with delicious vegan, pescatarian, vegetarian, and non-vegetarian options when it comes to snacks, salads, soups, entrees, dessert and even cold pressed juices & smoothies.

Kemara Cuisine also makes it possible to satisfy that sweet tooth without sacrificing on your health with chocolate lava cakes and red velvet cupcakes on this guilt-free menu! Nutrient-dense trail mixes, protein bites and other nibbles, lip-smacking jams, creamy dips, and flavorful nut butters will keep the snacking game strong, and bread lovers won’t feel left out either, with Kemara Cuisine’s mouth-watering and energy-boosting Paleo/Keto-inspired breads, waffles, and pancakes.

With Sri Lankans becoming increasingly hungry for convenience and clean eating, the Kemara Cuisine options offer the seemingly impossible; from wraps to crepes, lasagna to pasta, butters to cakes, and even local cuisine to suit our Sri Lankan palette -for once, a one-of-a-kind alternative eating programme that brings the joy back into eating, and will have you feeling fresher, healthier, and more energised at the same time!

This meal plan has strictly no emphasis on calorie counting and portion control, but rather on the consumption of solely the right foods for your body. The rationale at the core of this ancestral diet goes much deeper than physical beauty or weight loss.

Kemara Cuisine borrows from the Paleo Diet in that it does away with dairy products, legumes, sugar, grains, fat and sodium-rich processed food, which the human body has not evolved to process. However, unlike most Paleo meals, Kemara Cuisine’s dishes are not meat heavy, instead compensating with larger quantities of fresh, wholesome produce and nuts.

A Sanskrit term meaning ‘healing,’ the Kemara brand aim to promote a lifestyle of good health and overall wellness. It has since expanded to open a Holistic Spa, as well as a Natural and Organic Health and Beauty Care Line, both of which have proven to be extremely popular. Customers can opt for home/office delivery, or pick-up from Kemara at Lakpahana in Colombo 7. A standard daily plan includes three meals, plus dessert options, with individual portions ranging from Rs.1,350 (100% vegan) to Rs.1,550 (seafood/chicken). Meal plan upgrades and snack options are also available. Customers can visit the Kemara Cuisine Facebook page to view each week’s menu, or contact 011 2 696498 to place orders 24hrs in advance.

Delice: Cakes with Passion

Imantha Kurupuge may be an accountant during the day, but at night, his hands are churning out some sublime sweet treats that are exceptional in taste and also presentation. The secret to his success at this point in time, is the fact that his ability with regard to number crunching has helped him complement his passion for baking.

One look through the Instagram page of Delice and you are sure to be wowed by the exceptional level of detail that has gone into each work of art. One particular type of cake that I personally enjoyed feasting my eyes on were the many Rosette Cakes in different and varying shades.

What is also admirable in this whole process when it comes to baking cakes is that Imantha uses all locally-sourced ingredients. If you really want to talk about admiration, what is also truly remarkable is how he finishes his day job and is baking until around one in the morning to ensure that he is able to deliver on time to his customers.

If you are on the lookout for technical ability, creative flair, originality and use of local ingredients, but ultimately a delicious and eye-catching addition, Delice is the way to go. Knowing that he actually creates all these incredible sweet additions for special occasions with his own hands makes the experience that much more memorable. He truly is a one-stop cake shop.

What is the cake without buttercream? Let’s talk the art of buttercream. I need to admit at this point in time that I have also had my hand when it comes to baking cakes. While there are so many buttercreams around, it must be said that Imantha has crafted his very own types of buttercream that is utilized for cupcakes and also his three-tier 1 kg cakes.

Expect some amazing additions for the season. Besides actually crafting out cakes that are loved by all his customers, he also dishes out some seasonal treats like eggnog. I must also mention his Genoise Cake, which is a three-tier cake soaked in peach juice and has a decorative effect that reminds one of a naked cake.

Imantha has certainly channeled his inner Nigella Lawson when it comes to his baking business, which has steadily grown over the year. Delice will celebrate its 1st year anniversary on the 11th of December; and, with this level of dedication and enthusiasm being put out there for the world to see, I have no doubt this is a startup business that will thrive in leaps and bounds.

At this particular juncture I really do need to mention the fact that there are so many vibes here which are reminiscent of Man About Cake on YouTube. Decide to be very creative and quite exceptional in terms of delivery, Imantha is also looking at expanding his diminutive business in 2020.

I mentioned earlier on in this article how his ability as an accountant has helped him with his baking business; it is this attention to detail and level of patience coupled with a sense of discipline that has helped him start out successfully and maintain that success up to today. All in all, it is worth stating that Imantha is also planning on investing in his business by expanding his facilities and also the various tools of the baking trade to ensure that he offers the best quality when it comes to evolving menu.

Ashanthi Soris Mirchandani: The Art of Fitness

Ashanthi has always been a fitness enthusiast and the proof is in her work ethic and her overall demeanor. Having been a former Senior Secretary at Dialog for 4 years, she has moved her attention to the whole art of fitness and also the aspect of health. Consider this as the first article of a two-part series: the second part of this series will be focused on my personal transformation under her guidance — expect to read it in the Feb/Mar issue.

At Breakthrough Studio, which is located at Perahera Mawatha in close proximity to the Beira Lake, the main focus is on high intensity training coupled with a focus on important aspects like coordination and nutritional advice aswell. The official spiel includes words like Pure Body Burn, RIP Training and TRX Suspension Training. While there are many different routes towards a great physique and also health, remember what Ashanthi offers is also an effective mode that is very forward-thinking and potent.

The TRX System, also known as Total Resistance exercises, refers to a specialized form of suspension training that utilizes equipment developed by former U.S. Navy SEAL Randy Hetrick, and Ashanthi can last claim to the fact that she is the first person to have brought the whole concept to Sri Lanka. Although I was skeptical at first, I can assure you that the whole contraption may seem deceptively simple, however, the fact is that it’s truly multifaceted and offers far more than a total body burn.

While we do have access to a great deal of information thanks to many fitness gurus out there, what is important to acknowledge is that there is also a lot of misinformation as well. Ashanthi is very erudite and persistent in gaining a great deal of information and also demands that her trainers stay well-versed with regard to the latest trends and information relating to fitness and health.

One of the main aspects that was personally very important for me was having a trainer who pushed me to my limit, and this was something I had with the privilege of working out at Breakthrough Studio. As a person who was very much into fitness — think Kyokushin Karate, Kandyan dancing, Tap dancing, swimming, and weight training — the philosophy practiced at Breakthrough Studio deals with a total body solution where flexibility, coordination, strength, and mental focus is key.

What is important to mention is the great deal of support that is offered by this studio for its clients. Personally, I’ve had immense support where I’ve been pushed to my limits while not being pushed into a danger zone — there’s a fine line here, and your trust should always be put into the hands of a professional. I’ve personally had terrible experiences training under certain gym instructors who follow the dangerous adage — No Pain No Gain. One incident left me with a bad case of rhabdomyolysis, which can be a fatal condition that leads to the breakdown of skeletal muscle.

I’ve been training at Breakthrough Studio for just over a month, and have seen immense results. My stamina and flexibility has improved, and I have enjoyed a great deal of fat loss followed by some amazing muscle gains. I must also admit that’s my mental acuity has improved drastically. Having the right trainer is very important and is a very important precondition when it comes to your fitness journey and fitness goals whatever they may be.

What is also impressive is the curated workouts that are planned where all aspects of your health and fitness goals are taken into consideration. All in all, Breakthrough Studio is filling in a much-needed area in the fitness arena of Colombo. TRX Training is something I’m convinced about and consider myself fortunate to have had this opportunity to train with an exemplary professional in the guise of Ashanthi. I have recently moved onto GOFLO training, which is suspension training where the focus is on your core and stability. The word — Effective — is an understatement here.

Moreover, Breakthrough Studio is the only fitness studio to have this particular type of training whilst Ashanthi is a certified trainer with regard to this. Interestingly, Steuart Lane is home to a brand new studio, which is Ladies only, and has the same facilities and qualified trainers as its main branch. It is definitely worth checking out.

With New Year resolutions being part of the plan this year, fitness is something that many would focus on, and rightfully so. I’ve been to many gyms in my life, but I have to strongly recommend Breakthrough Studio, and this is based on my own fitness journey with them. The level of positive change that has happened to me thanks to Ashanthi’s advice and the well-facilitated support system that is present at Breakthrough Studio makes them the default choice when it comes to making a lasting physical and mental change in 2020.

Written by Rohitha Perera

UTS Insearch in Sri Lanka

The 21st century is turning out to be quite a bewildering era with technological disruption affecting all aspects of life. Education is certainly something that is being affected, and for a generation of millennials the advent of new and futuristic trends in the social, technological and economic landscape is shaping their future careers drastically.

The paragraph above seems to have the same vibes relevant to Yuval Noah Harari’s book 21 Lessons for the 21st century. I’ve realized how apt such an introduction is when you consider UTS Insearch, and how relevant its education programmes are for the current period we are living in, especially given the fact that this is a university that prides itself in staying ahead of the competition.

I had an opportunity to talk with Alison Hiscox — the Principal of the University of Technology Sydney Insearch’s campus in Sri Lanka — who is an education management professional with over 20 years’ experience in transnational education. Speaking fondly of Sri Lanka she talks about how at home she feels in this island nation and appreciates the hunger and thirst Lankan students have for education.

With a rich and rewarding career that spans 30 years in education, Alison has a vast degree of significant experience in managing university pathway programs and has previously held Principal and Academic Director positions in Kenya, Zambia and Australia and has managed and developed pathway programs in China and Myanmar.

Alison went on to acknowledge the fact that education has changed quite a bit throughout the last few decades. The main reason for this is that there are new jobs and job roles popping up in all industries across the board with IT being one of the main industries to face this role expansion of sorts. Thus, the relevance and quality of the learning process to meet ongoing changes is integral to helping students survive and thrive in the world outside.

When it comes to academia in the past there was too much of a focus on books and little else. Alison is a firm believer in emotional intelligence and how such a skill can be beneficial when it comes to choosing and sustaining a career in the long term. She also spoke about how practical skills and independent learning is something that is fostered at UTS, and how self-learning is a key attribute of how education is disseminated to their students.

In terms of raw numbers, UTS boasts 44,000 students, has 500 courses, and enjoys a ranking inside the best 150 universities across the world. Business, IT, and Engineering diplomas will be the main courses on offer in Sri Lanka while this offering will be expanded to include others based on demand in the near future.

What most parents who do invest in their children’s education would want to know is how effective an education they will get. UTS is well-known for its employability outcomes, and this is a reputation that is well-deserved. Education here takes on a very holistic approach where students are taught a sense of resilience and how to survive in the workplace while also being integrated into society where a social contribution is made.

There’s another economic reason why UTS Insearch has landed in Sri Lanka and this is because of the economic expansion that is currently happening. Consider it almost an investment in the local student capital where proper and forward-thinking education is offered in a way where future alumni will return and contribute to the Sri Lankan economy.

A prime example of this phenomena could be witnessed in the early 2000 era where Indian students returned to their country after gaining the right education abroad to start up profitable businesses and thereby putting India on the map from a highly commercial perspective. Lastly, from a competitive perspective, the Sri Lankan education system will only benefit immensely from a world-class university where the ceiling on excellence will surely be raised to superlative standards. Competition, as we all know, will only serve to push the envelope when it comes to economic development and social contribution.

Island Allure

We live on an island. One that has been declared a must-visit place. This island in the sun that allows a traveler to go from golden beaches to green pastures within a matter of hours has so much to offer. And yet so much remains undiscovered.

Traditionally tourism in Sri Lanka had been confined to a few key cities like Kandy, Dambulla and Anuradhapura for the history buffs and Galle, Negambo and Benthota for the seekers of sunshine. Yet, more recently newer areas with new adventures to offer have emerged. Ahangama, not too far from Galle is one such locale. Boasting some of the best waves for surfing, this small Southern Coast town is soon becoming a notable stop in any travel itinerary.

The area itself had recently flourished with home-stays, boutique hotels and villas a plenty. Among these there is one that is so unique, that it has been lauded not just the best in the area but the leading boutique hotel in Sri Lanka at the World Travel Awards (WTA), Asia and Oceania 2019.

Mosvold Villa has a classic tale of how one Kurt Mosvold from Normay, fell in love with an island that was introduced to him by his friends Nimal and Nilanka Martinus. The rest as they say is history and the result is one of the most stunning villas on the Southern Coast. Also featured in the National Geographic Traveller’s Luxury Collection for 2018, 2019 and 2020 (one of only two properties from Sri Lanka) in addition to being named winner as Luxury Beachfront Villa-Asia Continent at World Luxury Hotel Awards 2018 held in Bali, this property is elegant in its simplicity. That we believe is the best way to describe it.

Located approximately ½ hour away from the historic Galle Fort, Mosvold houses 12 bedroom suites offering for starters breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Combining traditional architecture commonplace in the South, with modern conveniences the rooms also come with private balconies, a plunge pool with Jacuzzi, luxury rain shower, mini-bar, free Wi-Fi, cable TV, Blue-Ray and DVD player and a host of others to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

Comfort and hospitality is key at Mosvold, and from the time of our arrival at the villa the attention to detail was evident in the furnishings, lighting, staff decorum and in the fine offerings of welcome. Once settled in our plush room, it was difficult to keep us indoors as the sound of the waves was inviting us to the majestic ocean. Mosvold specializes in dining by the beach, overlooking the waves as they break on the rocks and we decided to have breakfast by the beach.

Our culinary journey at the property though began with a three-course dinner at the alfresco dining area. Smoked Duck Breast Salad with Apple Slaw opened up our palate with its tangy Orange dressing ready for the burst of flavour that would come from the Yellow-Fin Tune Fillet with Cauliflower Crust served with Pepper Jelly and Anchovies. A Rich Chocolate and Nut Brownie served with Orange Candy, Caramelized Strawberries and Vanilla Ice-cream was the perfect end to a meal that satisfied a weary travelers senses. Dinner also gives guests a choice of Seafood Bouillabaisse with Garlic Bread, a Masala Lamb Cutlet on Coriander Mash served with Garlic Rock Lobster and finishing off with Fresh Pineapple Rings with Caramelized Sugar, Flamed with Local Arrack, Mint and Passion Fruit served with Vanilla Ice-cream and Cashew Nut Crumble.

A hearty meal like that put us to a deep sleep, lulled by the sounds of the ocean only to wake up to a glorious sunrise and a full-works American Breakfast served by the sea. This was an Instagram-worthy capture if there was any, and if pictures could speak then it would also tell you that the breakfast elements were on point.

No trip to the South is complete without a traditional rice and curry feed, and we had the privilege of our meal being prepared for us by Mosvold’s award-winning Executive Chef in a special cookery demonstration. There is a saying that every part of Sri Lanka has a different version of the island’s staple rice and curry and this was true from what we witnessed at Mosvold. While preparation is much the same, the secret we were told lies in the spices and condiments. Having tasted the final product we concur that the Southern version certainly does have its own colours, flavours and stories to tell.

Our stay at Mosvold also included a signature cocktails and canapés evening by the pool that is the perfect way to unwind and relax. Leaning heavily on the best seafood from the locality, the canapé feast was an experience in itself that was certainly tantalizing.

Having spent a day and a half at this unique property, we are indeed convinced as to why Mosvold deserved its accolades. But don’t take our word for it… Come and experience, its unique island allure.

Written by Nishu Gunawardana

Photographs by Sanura Gunawardana

Address: No.38 Matara Road, Welhengoda, Ahangama, Galle.

Telephone: 091 2 282942

E-mail: info@mosvold.lk

A New Café for Dogs was launched in Colombo 7 last October

Tayo Bear is a much loved and reputed brand for diverse, yummy, nutritious dog treats and meals grabbing the country by its proverbial tail! Since its launch a little over a year ago Tayo Bear has swiftly become a household name for safe and organic, homemade pet food for k9s in a short span of time. Tayo’s fabulous range of high-quality treats and meals in a variety of flavours has become a staple in every doggy parents’ home now. The impressive and intriguing social media platforms on Instagram and Facebook of Tayo Bear ensures through funny and unique posts that patrons and a legion of clients are kept informed of the latest thanks to engaging and enlightening updates made regularly.

“I’ve been a loyal customer of Tayo bear since Simba’s first birthday. Ever since the first cake I’ve gotten from the lovely adorable doggo lover with her mission to spread love for doggos all around. I simply joined on board. Not to mention the delicious cakes, to cookies which all my doggos fell in love with instantly to the paw soothers (which works like a charm to heal paw cracks). Her recipes along with passion and love for dogs is the winning combo and the goodies won’t disappoint your doggos, instead make them yummy in the tummy wanting more love and treats. I sincerely with all my heart recommend Tayo bear goodies which has been my one stop shop for doggo goodies and treats”, said Thiran Ranatunga Business partner at RCRMOTOWORLD.

However it’s Tayo Bear’s latest venture which is the talk of the city right now. Your doggies will now have their own exclusive, spacious and fabulous dog café opened on the 1^st of October, 2019 at 71/2, Gregory’s Road, Colombo 7. For the first time in Sri Lanka an atmospheric, hangout for every type and tribe of dog was finally launched where your pooches can mingle and make new friends, celebrate special occasions and birthdays, have a place to spend time while their mistresses and masters are away on errands but mostly at long last have a place that all furry delights can call their own.

Tayo Bear’s Doggy Café is the ideal retreat for all furry kids to socialize, spend quality doggy time and enjoy all the Tayo treats and meals while patronizing the café.

Proprietor, founder and doggy mom Shanaz Fouze had this to say when asked why she wanted to open a café exclusively for dogs: “Us doggy parents have always wondered where we could take our doggies. Even if they say pet friendly they don’t really allow the kids to actually go inside the space. My goal was to open a fancy place where you can have your dog’s birthday party or your birthday party with your dog or even if you want to leave your doggy for a few hours till you run your errands, your dog can hangout with the other dogs at the café. We have some amazing plans for the cafe but for now I wanted to keep it simple, giving the warmth and environment that I give my own furry kids”. Tayo Bear continues to innovate the pet industry with unique ideas and special one of a kind ventures and the Doggy Café is right on top. Dog owners be glad, because your best furry friends finally have a haven that’s made just for them.

Crimson Spaces: Art as a Medium of Connectedness

Anyone who watches The School of Life on YouTube would know how Alain de Botton is a serious proponent of art as a therapeutic medium. He talks of how art can indeed make us better lovers by teaching us patience, curiosity and generosity; and even prepare us for loneliness, old age, and unrequited love.

Allow me to just propose one example of this: Alain de Botton believes that we harbour a great deal of darkness in our hearts, which is why art gives us hope with its simple images of happiness. Consider the painting known as Usherette by Edward Hopper, which shows the usherette bathed in light yet with melancholic sadness. She is the suffering soul in a superficial world. She is us. Hopper invites us to sympathize, empathize, and indeed identify with her.

The above two paragraphs serve as a conversation starter of the subject of this 4-page spread — Crimson Spaces. Their story, which is a saturation of ups and downs, reminds me of an art space in its entirety, and how art is extremely diverse with each exhibition being quite possibly a reflection of one of the many facets of an artist’s personality, and how they seek a sense of balance and harmony in their lives.

What is rewarding in a sense is how Crimson Spaces has filled a void in the art industry — A place where established and emerging artists that fosters their artistry and brings them to the limelight. Opportunities are provided via exhibitions and internships. This is the changing face of the art industry in Sri Lanka, and Crimson Spaces is indubitably leading the pack.

Let’s talk about Kamilka Perera and Dananjaya Edirisinghe; two artists who are fronting the very first exhibition at Crimson Spaces. With so much of raw talent being sharpened and honed, one would feel that Kamilka Perera, in her paintings touches on the moods of the Garden of Eden, where Eden is treated as a life form herself, a rich tapestry on which Adam and Eve find and blossom in love. She imbibes her creations with a sense of purpose that is almost therapeutic to the spirit and soul.

We all know that art per se is an experience, and Danajaya Edirisinghe’s sculptures, which mainly focuses on pieces that embody the evil that is Satan, the glory that is God, and the purity and innocence that are the hearts of Adam and Eve. It is certainly an experience in itself. With a frown and the sun dappling his arms, what serves to be a humble panel of metal is turned into something pseudo-erotic and relatable.

Intense in personality, despite the offering of a bright sunny smile, you’d be caught unawares of his dark brooding persona as he designs, crafts and morphs whatever darkness he feels into a work of art that is either 2D or 3D.

Simple and yet crafted to perfection possibly thanks to Danajaya Edirisinghe’s experience as a doyen of handcrafted art, his workstation is a cacophony of pliers, wires, sweat, fingers, and a desire to just create.

I’ll admit as should you: we are all unhinged and missing something in life. And this is what a work of art attracts us to; in other words, we are attracted to something that we miss in life and within ourselves. This is why we have different tastes in art simply because we are missing different things.

Until the end of December, you and I are sure to witness an artistic spread of inimitable designs, which will be an Art Exhibition by Kamilka Perera and Danajaya Edirisinghe at Crimson Spaces. While the artistic aficionado would ask questions related to price etc., I’d urge you to traverse a different line of questioning: one which touches on the aspects of spirituality, and, dare I say, existential, too.

And, this is quite possibly the question — if I may paraphrase Alain de Botton — you should ask should you ever come across these inimitable designs handcrafted by artists across the board: What bit of myself is missing that I find in this object of art that I find so beautiful?

Eden; Crimson Spaces 2019: Art Exhibition by Kamilka Perera and Danajaya Edirisinghe is open for viewing until the 31st of December 2019, at the Crimson Spaces Gallery,32A, Horton Place, Colombo 07 from Monday to Saturday 10am-5pm and on Sundays from 10am-1pm.

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Written by Rohitha Perera

Singer unveils ultimate versatile chef ‘Kenwood Chef XL’

Singer Sri Lanka Group CEO Mahesh Wijewardene and Singer Sri Lanka PLC Assistant Brand Manager Lakshika Gamage unveiling the ultimate versatile chef Kenwood Chef XL
Singer Sri Lanka Group CEO Mahesh Wijewardene and Singer Sri Lanka PLC Assistant Brand Manager Lakshika Gamage unveiling the ultimate versatile chef Kenwood Chef XL
Live demo conducted by celebrity chefs Namal Ranathunge and Suren Perera
Live demo conducted by celebrity chefs Namal Ranathunge and Suren Perera
Singer offers a variety of Kenwood products

Singer (Sri Lanka) PLC, the country’s premier consumer durables retailer, launched an exciting new addition to their array of Kenwood kitchen appliances at the Singer Lifestyle Exhibition 2019 at BMICH recently. The unique live demo event was conducted by celebrity chefs Namal Ranathunge and Suren Perera.

A novel acquisition, the all-new Kenwood Chef Major also known as Kenwood XL, is designed to make light food work preparation and helps create an array of dishes with ease. The Kenwood Chef kitchen machine is the most versatile appliance as it is made with over 65 years’ experience to give consumers excellent results and countless years of pleasure creating exciting food. All Kenwood Kitchen Machines come with 3 bowl tool accessories as standard; K-Beater, Whisk and Dough Tool that enable the preparation of delicious food including cakes, breads, pastries, meringue, icing and much more with confidence. In addition, all Kenwood machine come with external attachments of a Meat Mincer, Juicer and a Mill.

Speaking on the introduction Kumar Samarasinghe, Marketing Director from Singer Sri Lanka PLC said, “Since 2008 we are honoured to associate with Kenwood, Europe’s number one Food Preparation Brand. For over seven decades, Kenwood has designed innovative solutions that have delighted cooks all over the world. They are renowned for their flair for designing trusted products and attachments that allow cooking in your own unique style. We at Singer are delighted to offer this unique all-in-one solution giving a discerning experience for our customers islandwide. Kenwood machines have proven to be extremely durable as it has been passed on from generations to generations with complete trust to deliver the best in the culinary arts.”

Singer offers a variety of Kenwood products, including blenders, smoothie makers, choppers, sandwich makers, juicers, Kitchen chef, food processors, hand beaters, irons and vacuum cleaners which are available at Singer outlets throughout the country. Creating, making, enjoying and sharing food is at the heart of Kenwood and is a largely contributing factor for Kenwood’s successful brand story. An extensive selection of recipes can be prepared utilizing all the showcased Kenwood products, and these are available to all home bakers on the official Kenwood website, as well as YouTube. Overall, it is a magnificent machine built exclusively for creative cooks and bakers that aspire to be inventive in the kitchen and discover the various delicacies that can be prepared using the Kenwood Chef.

The Singer Lifestyle Exhibition is an annual phenomenon where all brands affiliated with Singer come together and exhibit their products. It would line up array of products of world renowned brands, allowing consumers to choose from a range of thousands of brand new products under one roof. Singer Sri Lanka implies the Life Style Fiesta exhibition as a reciprocal gift with gratitude to all citizens for placing it as the best brand of the country. Over 1500 product in various ranges are available from all household appliances to industrial goods.