“Anxiety is the dizziness of freedom.” —Søren Kierkegaard
While new and unfamiliar developments in our lives can often bring about discomfort, we should challenge ourselves to meet them with tranquility instead of fear. Fear wants us to act carelessly fast, too soon, without much thought. By pulling back and allowing our breathing to slow, we are better able to clearly see the steps we need to take to move forward. Patience, as difficult as it is, breaks down distrust and outlasts our preconceptions.
In my days of turbulence and trouble, my challenges seemed to be compounded by my frustration at my unwillingness to move forward. It felt like I was so close to shore, but still being battered by the waves and the undertow. By being patient with myself, I was able to calm down. That, in turn, allowed me to time the lull moment between sets, when it was safe to swim, and gain enough energy to swim past the current onto dry land. Now I happily sunbathe on the shore, strengthened by my experiences and the love of those who helped me.
On my daughter Jordan’s latest visit from Siargao, where she has now relocated, she told me all about her daily surf sessions and they have become part of her meditation and therapy. The ocean truly has its own powerful healing energy, and she has continually extended those blessings to the community around her. She shared photos of the community center that was rebuilt from the generous donation of LG Philippines, who chose Jordan as an LG ambassador. Apart from their P500,000 cash grant, LG also provided appliances such as a huge TV, refrigerator and washing and drying machines, all to be used by the children in the community and their families.
Superb cooling
Jordan and I were able to personally thank Sungjae Kim, LG Philippines managing director, at the recent launch of LG AeroTower (available at LG dealers nationwide; lg.com/ph; Lazada and Shopee), a superb cooling device that provides purified air as well by utilizing the South Korean brand’s PuriCare technology. The event at Living Innovations in Bonifacio Global City was hosted by yours truly, and LG gave the first glimpse and a hands-on product demo of the AeroTower to select members of the media.
To highlight the features and aesthetically pleasing design of the new AeroTower, beautiful celebrities were invited to share their thoughts about the unit. Architect and beauty queen Shamcey Supsup-Lee gushed about how the AeroTower perfectly blends form and function. “Even if the AeroTower was just a fan or just an air purifier, it can hold its own with any designer furniture or artwork on display. The mere fact that it works as both is astounding.”
LG brought in Dr. Jansen Calalan, a lifestyle medicine specialist, who talked about the importance of clean air. “Having access to clean air lowers the risk of respiratory issues and heart disease, improves cognitive health and of course, makes you happier overall.” Actress and new mom Sofia Andres shared how LG’s multi-filtration technology helps her feel safe as well. “The multifiltration technology gives me assurance and peace of mind, that even with the comings and goings of my babies, both human and canine/feline, the whole family is safe.”
Sungjae Kim was elated with the introduction of the new product to the local market. “This is a new favorite, as I feel that it captures the essence of the brand. It provides the perfect blend of form and function. It’s sleek, stylish and can hold its own among any artwork in any room. At the same time, it provides pure, clean air and cools you off according to your specific needs. What’s not to love?” Changsoo Jang, LG Air Solutions product director, says, “This product is the culmination of years of research and development with the end goal of making life better for every customer. The AeroTower, as well as this event itself, is just the first step towards the future. Together, we take each step forward together.”
Inspired by a pear orchard
Jordan was also able to attend another event with me before she flew back to Siargao. The Jo Malone affair was one of the prettiest production setups I have seen. Last Sept. 8, Jo Malone London hosted an afternoon tea event at Palacio De Memoria to rediscover and explore the enchanted world of their beautiful scent, English Pear & Freesia (available at all Jo Malone London boutiques; Lazada). Guests explored the pear orchard-inspired space, which including a giant pear setup. The fragrance display allowed guests to browse through the various English Pear & Freesia products. Jo Malone London stylists assisted guests on discovering unique combinations to create their own signature scent.
Brand general manager Camille Oloan welcomed guests. Boutique manager Charz Encina talked about the scent’s inspiration, quoting the global head of fragrance, Celine Roux: “Like many of our fragrances, it’s incredibly evocative: when you smell it, you’re instantly transported to an orchard where juicy fruit mingles with blooming flowers.” Charz also discussed the recommended scent pairings, such as Nectarine Blossom & Honey, Wild Bluebell, Peony & Blush Suede and Cypress & Grapevine. Additionally, a special menu was created by chef Margarita Forés that was inspired by the day’s scent. English Pear & Freesia is a forever favorite, inspired by orchards awash with golden sunshine.
Breast cancer awareness
Before I sat down to have afternoon tea with Sharyn Wong, Estée Lauder Companies’ country manager, I was able to have a photo session with Jordan. Kyla Olives-Laurel really captured our mother-daughter chemistry that has been more bonded than ever before. Truly, this is one of the silver linings in this journey of mine. Together with my Red Charity Gala partner Kaye Tiñga, Sharyn and I have been continuously working on the details of our upcoming charity event, The Pink Ball, which will be held on Oct. 13 at the Shangri-La at the Fort. We are so delighted with the support of so many generous table buyers, and especially to Emerson Yao, who sent an Omega SeaMaster Aqua Terra watch for auction. All proceeds go to breast cancer awareness and other free treatments. I am so energized by all the events happening in person; it’s a joy to reconnect with old friends and meet new people, and to dress up while doing so! It feels like a huge blessing to be able to plan a charity auction event again, and to help others going through their own healing journeys. As we all move forward into the postpandemic days of our lives, it is important to take a breath and choose our paths wisely. The right steps will reveal themselves in time, and when they do, we just need the courage to leap into the unknown.
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