Jeju Island: Reaping the Benefits of Mantis Stem Cell Therapy
Once you’ve gotten the taste for traveling, you will keep coming back for more: more adventures, higher peaks, deeper waters, lusher landscapes, as far as your passport and body can take you.
That’s the thing though, you may have the money, you may have the will, but as you age, your body may not always have the ability to keep up where your mind takes you.
What travel has taught me: the amount of investment I place on the experience parallels the amount of investment I must place on my health.
You must realize, experiences of every kind cost time, money & effort. So it only makes sense to milk all you can from it to its fullest potential. To do that – you need to be strong and agile.
You need to be physically capable for multiple activities, eating one too many “I’m on vacation meals,” warped time zones, early days, late nights and whatever else you wanna throw in to that list.
While traveling may be expensive, so is treating an illness.
And as I’ve gotten older, especially after my brother passing away so suddenly, I’ve given so much more emphasis on taking care of my health.
It’s been a year now since I started sharing with you via social media, the impressive results I’ve experienced since doing the Mantis Stem Cell Therapy at Amy Patdu Medical Clinic in Alabang.
Let me share just some of the changes I’ve noticed overall:
1. After one treatment, I went on a month-long strenuous trip all around Turkey in April 2016.
Surprisingly never woke or ended the day with any body aches despite the many ancient unpaved ruins we hiked.
I didn’t realize it until I got back where I had this a-ha moment, “oh shit, I actually didn’t feel any pain this trip!”
2. After about 4-5 sessions, my sleep was much deeper and waking up has gotten so much easier.
Highly nocturnal, I have a bad case of insomnia. So it was absolute bliss to finally experience a “good night’s rest.”
3. It had been 10years of dealing with an irregular menstrual cycle. However, after just 4 months of 2-3 sessions a week, I noticed my period slowly but surely came back. Then as of this month, I am happy to announce I am completely regular! Definitely did not see that coming!
This means my hormones have stabilized, which is so vital for balancing our moods, fighting the aging process, regulating the metabolism and so much more.
4. I could barely last a couple of hours wearing 5-inch stilettos without giving up in spasms and pain with numb toes.
Amazingly, I hosted an event in said heels for, I kid you not – 9 hrs with only sitting down twice! Of course my feet were sore in the end but it was the fact that I lasted that long with enough energy to spare was nothing short of amazing.
5. Relatedly, the muscle pain recovery period from wearing heels, which also hurts your back and other activities while traveling such as hiking, biking, hours of walking and lugging baggage from one train to another, has been impressively quick.
Literally bouncing back with a lot of energy daily easily.
6. Food coma is the worst!
When you eat so much junk, your body crashes so hard. Imagine what alcohol and drugs do to your body.
Sugars, bad carbs, MSG and preservatives are easily accessible and consumed daily. These are actual poisons to our body but ever since the treatment, my body doesn’t take the fall as hard as it used to. Just like with pain recovery, recovering from bad food/drink choices have been more manageable.
Given that the Mantis reboots the internal mechanism of our body through electromagnetic therapy, I am sure it has also done so much within my body that I am not aware of. I am only noticing the external effects.
This episode you’ll see & learn:
1. Me during treatment
2. Explains exactly how the Mantis works
3. Who can benefit from this
4. Why it is safe, all-natural, non-invasive and ESSENTIAL for optimum quality of life!
5. While showing the absolute beauty of South Korea’s vacation destination for its celebrities, Jeju Island.
I sound like an ad, haha, but I am really just an overjoyed customer!
This is just the tip of the iceberg, folks!
Today’s episode proves that for someone like me who doesn’t exercise at all, I am able to excel and thrive at strenuous activities (while filming for this vlog)!
Making every trip even more meaningful, exciting and are ticking-off-bucketlist kind of experiences.
My tired face after reaching the top of Seongsan Ilchulbong Sunrise Peak and relishing the breathtaking view of Jeju Island despite the cloudy day!!
Blushy cheeks courtesy of adrenaline and amazement!
Since our bodies are not the same and we live different lifestyles, the effects of the treatment, I presume will vary as well.
To give you a background, I live a relatively clean lifestyle: vegetarian, occasionally vegan, no drugs, alcohol or cigarettes.
The only thing I lack in the name of healthy living is I don’t exercise. I try to make up for it by eating clean and exerting myself activity-wise when traveling.
I did not have any expectations because to be honest, I’ve tried one too many treatments from other clinics that were just alright.
However the benefits I experienced from the Mantis really took me by surprise because they weren’t instant until I became a believer. So much so I would rearrange my schedule to make time for it twice a week.
Even my mom shared how her arm pain disappeared after just one treatment. So I encourage her to continue because maintenance is key to a long healthy life.
Find out more about the Mantis from Amy Patdu Medical Clinic:
+632 8182698
IG: @AmyPatdu
http://www.amypatdu.com.ph/
Love, light and good health,
B
Location: Jeju Island, South Korea
Disclaimer: This is not a paid ad. I am just so surprisingly overjoyed for having discovered such a treatment that I cannot stop talking about. I truly want everyone to have an improved quality of life as the Mantis has done for me.
I cannot promise you will reap the same benefits as I have as I am only sharing my own account. Effects vary per person. All info support is in the video.
Also, since my brother passed away last January, I admittedly had lost the will to go back but I felt the difference since discontinuing. So I’ve slowly returned to try and get back into the groove of my normal routine again.
NOTE: This written post is merely an introduction as the main content is in the video. I highly encourage you to watch it for the full experience on what the episode is truly all about.
The Blue Lagoon: Iceland
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland instantly became a part of my travel bucketlist after seeing a photo of it on Instagram.
It’s one thing to bask in the snow and another to bathe in this ethereal-like lagoon in the northern hemisphere surrounded by desert and glaciers all at once. Unreal!
Tell me, isn’t it true it’s always a pinch-me-moment whenever a dream or bucket list comes to life?
Actually, it was a tits-were-frozen moment, lol, as I set foot in the surreal sub-zero lagoon at the spa resort in the outskirts of Iceland.
However, this was almost immediately followed by sublime, caressing warmth from the 38C geothermal water.
It must be said, this is one episode I can truly say, “I did it for the shot!”
While everyone goes straight for the water to keep warm, you’ll see how I scantily braved the harsh winds and 1C frozen temperatures.
There I was, shiveringly sashaying in true beauty queen fashion around the pool in a bikini no less – to give you guys a very cool, no pun intended, episode! Haha!
It was so freezing cold that even my phone died within minutes. Thankfully, I was able to find a way and salvage enough footage to share with you guys!
Was it all worth it?!
You’d better watch today’s episode to find out! Please don’t forget to subscribe!
Love & light,
B
Location: Blue Lagoon, Iceland, Northern Europe
NOTE: This written post is merely an introduction as the main content is in the video. I highly encourage you to watch it for the full experience on what the episode is truly all about.
Top 5 Flower Farms in Hokkaido Summer
While the rest flock to Hokkaido for the snow, I came for the flowers!
Hokkaido, the northern-most part of Japan, is commonly known for its sub-zero temperatures, wintery landscapes and famous soft powder snow. But for the ones of us who can’t or prefer not to ski or simply can’t fathom the cold, there is so much more to Hokkaido than just winter activities!
During the comfortably cool summer, Hokkaido hosts some of the most magnificent flower festivals.
The rustic splendor of nature is absolutely breathtaking – rolling fields covered in wheat, endless rows of multi-colored flowers, all so perfectly manicured that even your mani-pedi would shy away.
Everywhere you look you can’t help but admire the landscape that often resembles a scene stolen directly from a movie. Simple and yet so dreamy.
For this week’s episode, am taking you to FIVE flowers fields.
Wouldn’t be surprised if you ended switching up your travel itineraries immediately since the short summer season only lasts until the end of August!
FLOWER LAND
HINODE PARK
SHIKISAI NO OKA
CHOEI LAVENDER FARM
FARM TOMITA
These flowers are but snippets of the beauty of all 5 so watch the video right now to truly appreciate each one!
So tell me, what’s your favorite?
Love & light,
B
Location: Hokkaido, Japan
NOTE: This written post is merely an introduction as the main content is in the video. I highly encourage you to watch it for the full experience on what the episode is truly all about.
A Life Beyond the Grave: Lithuania’s Hill of Crosses
“In the end, we all end up in the same place as where we were born – no more, no less. No titles. Just ashes back to the Earth.”
These were the exact words I shared when I was tasked to give the eulogy during my brother’s funeral last January.
Hey, I know it’s been an intense few episodes from the Stockholm terrorist attack to surviving the grieving process.
But trust me, it’s not where you think this is headed…
Stay with me….
The morning my brother MIKO passed away, amidst all the trauma and tears, there he was in the crematorium. This man who was larger than life, at a glance, just a bag of dust. His ashes gathered inside some generic plastic bag. Nothing fancy.
I sat there, stared intently and it dug in deep: wow, just like that.
Last night, Miko was alive at the peak of his life. Now, those 48 spectacular years, shoved in one bag of, pardon the term, dirt.
Lithuania: The Hill of Crosses
After learning what the Hill of Crosses in Lithuania stood for in the name of resilience and perseverance during a time of severe oppression from the USSR, I realize that the true measure of one’s worth is not defined by how you died but by how you lived. It is not by the titles you’ve earned but by the hearts you’ve touched.
Though it may look it: the Hill of Crosses is not a cemetery.
It is sacred ground that celebrates ordinary men and women who lived extraordinary lives.
That subtle switch of perspective, such power that breathes eternal life into memories of the countless departed souls represented by each and every cross.
If you are alive, LIVE.
Do not just exist.
Life is meant to be experienced. It is meant to make us feel and hurt and awaken. The past no longer exists and the future is nothing but a figment of our hopes or anxieties. The real truth is in the now. All we have is this very moment in time.
I look at my brother’s life and I think, man, that’s the life I would like to live – full – and when I say FULL – to the brim. It was fearless, filled with passion, love and so much fun!!! Ask anyone who knew him!
No regrets.
He may have passed but he was never at a loss.
I was.
We are.
But now we gain wisdom from the life that he lived.
In all – we win.
I am so proud. So. Damn. Proud.
While no amount of adventures could ever compare to the memories of you, MIKO, I vow to start living again since you’ve gone.
Though I am not there yet, the legacy you’ve left behind is the fuel my soul feeds on.
One For The Books
This is undoubtedly one of the most unforgettable, life-changing places I’ve been to in my life.
Watch the video and you’ll know exactly what I mean.
An episode for the books!
My heart, love and light,
Bianca
Location: Hill of Crosses, Lithuania, Europe
NOTE: This written post is merely an introduction as the main content is in the video. I highly encourage you to watch it for the full experience on what the episode is truly all about.
Surviving The 5 Stages of Grief
Grief is very much like love: We experience, express and process it in such a unique way. Yet in those differences, we also find similarities that we can all relate to.
Social media gives this impression that people’s lives – mine included, are like perfect postcards admired with “#TravelGoals” and “#HowToBeYou” sentiments.
It isn’t called, “rough draft” for nothing as what you see are the highlights.
In today’s video, I share what really goes on behind the scenes.
I have learned the hard way that ironically, in vulnerability we find strength, just as I have in “Surviving the 5 Stages of Grief.”
Stripped Down And Naked
This VLOG has pushed me galaxies beyond my comfort zone. It has made me tear down walls I never knew existed. Stripped down to emotional nakedness, I share this extremely personal post on the ramblings of my sorrow, my grief, my broken heart of losing my only brother, Miko.
Yes I am aware that a broken heart heals with God-given time, with prayers of hope for happier days, with sincere words from a friend or a stranger and with solace knowing you are not alone.
However, until that day comes, know that if you’re reading this and are going through the motions of pain and loss, you are allowed to fall apart. You are allowed to be an emotional mess. You are allowed to not have it all figured out. You are allowed to feel broken.
Fear Not Your Emotions
My dearest, honor your feelings. You are neglecting your own path to healing by suppressing something that must naturally be released. You may hide them so well now but trust that suppressed emotions will retaliate as it reemerges in ways inconceivable and destructible.
Please, do your precious soul a favor by holding its hand and allowing yourself to feel every emotion, no matter the discomfort, the heaviness and burden.
Unless you acknowledge the presence of anything, you cannot drive it away. So I encourage you, no matter how uncomfortable it may be, face the fear, the pain, the anger. Because only then can you face a new day filled with hope and renewed happiness.
There is Strength in Grief
Do you know what are the five stages of grief? What stage are you at right now? Where am I? Watch and let’s explore them together.
Love and light,
B
Location: Manila, Philippines and Helsinki, Finland
Nature image via Google
NOTE: This written post is merely an introduction as the main content is in the video. I highly encourage you to watch it for the full experience on what the episode is truly all about.
My Close Call: Stockholm Terrorist Attack
If you’ve ever seen the movie, Sliding Doors, with Gwyneth Paltrow, it shows how your destiny can drastically change within a matter of seconds..
The second I landed in Stockholm, I knew I already felt at home from just the airport alone.
Setting the benchmark for my Scandinavian adventure, it was the first of five countries that I had visited last month.
It’s actually my second visit, my first being when I was with my parents as seen here, a grumpy kid lol, with my perpetually stylish mom. Sadly, I don’t recall much but this time around, needless to say, Stockholm did not disappoint.
The warmth of the Swedes more than compensated for the cold spring weather. The energy of the city had me excited knowing that I was returning again at the end of a month-long trip before heading back to Manila.
Then it happened…
After reading the news (credit here, here & here) seeing that hotdog stand nearly rammed down by the truck, it had dawned on me:
I was literally standing at that specific spot just a few days before filming a playful video on Stockholm streetfood for the vlog.
Talk about insane proximity, I was pretty much standing right between the hotdog stand board sign and the wheel of the truck!
(Credit here & here)
The photos I share here are mere screenshots from the clips I took so I encourage you to watch today’s heartfelt episode.
Here is the friendly hot dog vendor who served us that day.
From my humble comparison, the guy above was not the same man splashed all over the news, who nearly escaped death on April 7, Gilberto Rodriguez (below).
You be the judge, I could be wrong. Thankfully, he or both are blessed to be safe and alive today.
Fast forward to nearly a month later, I had returned to the same spot on Drottninggatan, Stockholm’s famous shopping street, to find a wall, boarded up to cover the damage done by the man in suspect.
Just imagine, locals walking by the same street they probably pass by everyday; day in and day out routine.
Of course there’s those tourists like myself, ticking off their list of places to visit in Stockholm. Then in an unforeseen flash of fate, everything had changed – forever.
The wooden wall of Ahlens Department Store may have been temporary but the pretty flowers, the messages of love and repose, inter-collaged by the images of peace and unity were all to be etched in people’s hearts for eternity.
While it’s stating the obvious (and even selfish) how grateful I am for not being there on that dreadful day, what really struck me to the core was knowing how all the victim’s families had no warning whatsoever. As it was just another day in peaceful Stockholm.
It is that all too familiar feeling of having no control, no sense of closure nor any time to process what had happened, knowing your loved one is never coming back.
Similarly, losing my brother so suddenly just two months ago is the hardest thing my family and I have endured in life.
So as I read the news and learned about the victims and their families, all I could think of was how deeply sorry I was for their loss and I empathize in their pain.
Evidently, no amount of words or prayers can ever suffice losing a loved one. But that shouldn’t stop the world from expressing something I feel the world is sorely lacking these days – empathy.
The rate of hate spreading around the world continues to escalate. If we think offering kindness, compassion, sensitivity and awareness to other people’s suffering cannot help heal one soul at a time, then we have forgotten what true love is all about.
Compassion costs nothing and to the person receiving it, it means everything.
I offer this special episode, my prayers and my genuine desire to try and contribute something positive to this world – via this place we now call the digital world, to all of Sweden.
My heart goes out to you. Thank you for welcoming me and my family into your ‘hometown.’ I cannot wait to go back again one day and bask in your kindred-souled-city!
Everything you need to see, feel & hear are all in today’s episode so I hope you don’t miss it!
SO MUCH lined up to share with you all about Sweden: from the food, the Vikings, the Old Town and more!
Sending out love & light,
B
Location: Stockholm, Sweden, Europe
NOTE: This written post is merely an introduction as the main content is in the video. I highly encourage you to watch it for the full experience on what the episode is truly all about.
Japan Snow Festivals Part 4: Otaru
Oh Otaru…while the postcard may depict the immaculate vision, the reality on the other hand, may not always deliver…
It would be a lie if I said that every vacation has been a wonderland. Hence the phrase, “expectation vs reality.”
So that is exactly what I’m serving as the final episode of this 4-part series.
But first, let me give you a quick recap of the snow festivals I’ve taken you to so far!
If you prefer a snow festival with an upbeat city vibe, you’re sure to enjoy PART 1 – the Sapporo Snow Festival.
Now if you prefer something away from the city to see how Japan does it big and majestic, the Asahikawa Winter Festival’s snow performance stage is sure to win you over… Check out PART 2!
Still want something more unique? Then why not take a gander at PART 3 up in the mountains of Daisetsuzan National Park for the Sounkyo Hot Springs Winter Festival.
While you’re at it, taking a dip in the onsens or hot springs is sure to keep you warm amidst the freezing temperatures!
PART 4: OTARU
Now, should you decide to hit up one more festival just a 45-min local train ride from Sapporo, then you’ve arrived at our last stop – PART 4: the Otaru Snow Light Path Festival.
It is called Snow Light Path for a reason – it is meant to be enjoyed at night.
THE CALM BEFORE THE STORM
Thankfully during the day, the Otaru tourist rush had not yet set in. It was relatively calm and it was lovely watching how the South Korean volunteers were cheerfully creating (and assuming, retouching daily as well) all the little snow sculptures scattered around the two main areas.
As much as I want to show the beautiful side to traveling, I also want to show you harsh reality of it.
REALITY VS EXPECTATION
Consequently, daylight also revealed nature’s truth when snow gets muddy and melted – not exactly a picturesque Otaru, snow angel environment.
See, if you’re hitting a popular destination like Otaru at peak season, you need to mentally prepare yourself for huge crowds, endless photo bombers, dirty surroundings, long lines – not to mention annoying people cutting in line, and if luck decides to plot against you – a drastic serving of poor weather.
When night fell, I was overwhelmed and stressed by the insane amount of tourists that I nearly slipped several times on muddy, melted snow.
I know right – boo freakin’ hoo, Bianca! Poor you, SMH!
LOOK BEYOND THE SNOW
We all perceive experiences uniquely. I will be the first to admit that after coming from the other three festivals, most especially Asahikawa; of course I had my expectations.
Two words: Pretty high.
As seen in the video, it was only when I had seen that older couple intently holding one another with so much love and presence amidst the tourist pandemonium that it made me realize: an adventure is what you make of it.
I mean look at them! They had their own world and nothing else mattered.
Just as I want to inspire you all to embark on your own adventures, I believe it is also my responsibility as an avid traveler to manage your expectations by equipping you with the truth of what to expect – what could possibly happen so you don’t get surprised or disappointed.
If a place quickly becomes popular and highly commercialized, you already need to accept that most likely it will be filled with an insane amount tourists. Why wouldn’t it be?
Anywhere you go, realize that every person is just as entitled as you are to have a great time, take a great photo and take home some breathtaking memories.
So who are you to complain for not getting exactly what you had envisioned of a “great time?”
Besides, the concept of a “good time” is subjective and relative. What may be a blast for you, may be so-so to another. It is not bad nor good – it is simply preference.
Alas, after several attempts of trying to live up to my own standards of so-called Instagram-worthy photos… forget composition, framing, or artistic vision, haha!
In this day of social media, it is not about the photo – it is about the moment. Don’t let a bad photo or lack thereof define a beautiful experience.
SNAP OUT OF IT!
We all go through times where we take things, people or experiences for granted. It’s only when we observe how other people take in certain moments with such joy that you snap out of your bratty funk.
The best of times are not determined by the weather or the food or the pretty flowers or a person. It is determined by you – your mindset – your perception.
Embrace the power of knowing that: When you fully accept moments for what they are, no matter how simple they may be, they will bear so much more meaning because YOU say so.
So there will be times you will forget how unbelievably blessed you are to live another day to create more memories. Some people never get that privilege. So soak it all in like it were your last and you will always be content.
“It is up to you to see the beauty in everyday things.” – Unknown
I guess it’s safe to say I’ve offered a mini-mini-marathon for you all to watch, compare and be inspired for your future Japan trips.
Each one is truly different from one another; that if planned well, you can actually hit up all snow festivals in one trip! Yes it’s truly possible, just as I did!
Love, light and a whole lot of snow,
B
Location: Otaru, Hokkaido, Japan
NOTE: This written post is merely an introduction as the main content is in the video. I highly encourage you to watch it for the full experience on what the episode is truly all about.
Japan Snow Festivals Part 3: Sounkyo
And you’re here again!
So glad you’ve come along for the ride to three of four snow festivals I’ve visited in Hokkaido.
First, I took you to the largest and most popular snow festival, the Sapporo Snow Festival.
Then I took you away from the city to the Asahikawa Snow Festival to see Japan’s largest snow sculpture and me being a kid again!
Now, let me take you up to the mountains of Japan, to an onsen or hot spring town for the Sounkyo Hot Springs Ice Festival!
Sounkyo given that it’s a hot spring town, imagine freezing in the cold mountains by Daisetsuzan National Park then bathing in piping warm and soothing hot springs to end the day.
This snow festival was most unique for me because it was such a small and intimate surprise tucked away in the mountains.
Psychedelic and trippy from all the lights and caves to wander about, the Soungkyo Hot Springs Ice Festival felt like an igloo disco within a suburban town!
With each video you watch, it was important for me to show you how each festival has its own unique energy and vibe. So you really can’t pick just one festival to visit if you had the chance to hit them all.
Don’t forget, we’ve got one more festival next week – this time in the romantic city of Otaru – but with a realistic travel twist!
Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel and would love, love, love to know what your thoughts of each festival!
Love, light and a whole lot of snow,
B
Location: Sounkyo, Hokkaido, Japan
NOTE: This written post is merely an introduction as the main content is in the video. I highly encourage you to watch it for the full experience on what the episode is truly all about.
Japan Snow Festivals Part 2: Asahikawa
Since you’re already reading this about Asahikawa, you know that there must be a PART 1 to this snow-filled, four-part series.
So if you haven’t seen the last episode, might I suggest you watch the first leg of my travel diary to the Sapporo Snow Festival.
Alrighty… You good? Awesome.
Now let’s head on over to another winter festival that is personally my favorite amongst the four: the Asahikawa Winter Festival.
To be a kid again… innocent, naive, with a delightful sense of wonder!
The Asahikawa Winter Festival certainly gave me the feels of kiddie delight.
While I understand it seems odd that a grown woman like myself would prefer a playground over a pub, I’ve hesitantly shared a few posts back how I’m quite the late bloomer.
You’ll see in the video how contrasting each snow festival is. You can’t even compare as each one has its own distinct vibe and personality!
While Sapporo may be the biggest snow festival, Asahikawa boasts of the largest snow sculpture in all of Japan – the performance stage.
“It is necessary to keep your inner child alive and well. While our adulthoods are relentless assaults on unrealistic demands and enormous responsibility, the ever-curious inner child asks the vital questions, like, “Why is this important?” and “Will this make me happy?”‘
~ Beau Taplin
Don’t forget, I’ve only featured two festivals so far. There are two more which you can check out right here – Sounkyo and Otaru, both also just as different from the aforementioned.
So I’ll quit yappin as you start watchin’!
I hope you enjoy episode 2 of Japan Snow Festivals featuring Asahikawa!
For your future Hokkaido itineraries, don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel and would love to know what you guys think of them!
You can also check more of my Japan posts here.
Which festival would you prefer to go to?
Love & light,
B
Location: Asahikawa, Hokkaido, Japan
NOTE: This written post is merely an introduction as the main content is in the video. I highly encourage you to watch it for the full experience on what the episode is truly all about.
Japan Snow Festivals Part 1: Sapporo
If you’ve ever read the books, “Choose Your Own Adventure” as a child, you would know how exciting it is to create your very own combination of plots, twists and more.
That was exactly how I felt when I hit four of Japan’s most popular snow festivals in Hokkaido! All done in one trip: Sapporo, Asahikawa, Sounkyo and Otaru.
As a girl living on a tropical island of the Philippines, basking in snow has always been one of life’s simple pleasures.
This trip was actually my very first time to be around that much snow, falling on my face, my hair and melting in my tiny hands.
That innocence… that sparkle as I felt like a kid again.
Electric, magical, surreal yet simple, energetic and also so calm – the plethora of emotions and experiences were delightfully contrasting as each festival offered a different vibe. I even shared a teaser of all four on Instagram.
Given that there’s so much to cover, I’ve decided to turn this webisode into a four-part series.
So with each episode, you’ll get to see how each festival is different from the other. Hopefully, these’ll help you decide when planning for your first or next trip to Japan.
Speaking of Japan, if winter is too cold or too far away, we’re now in spring and my last post is the perfect dreamy destination to add to your itinerary!
Don’t forget, this is PART 1 of the a 4-part series of Japan Snow Festivals!
While you’re at it, you can also check out Part 2 Asahikawa Snow Festival, Part 3 Sounkyo Hot Springs Ice Festival and Part 4, the Otaru Snow Light Path.
Alright, here we go… first up!
Come away with me to the Sapporo Snow Festival!
If you have any requests on topics you want me to feature on my YouTube channel, do leave a comment!
Love, light and a whole lot of snow,
Bianca
Location: Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
NOTE: This written post is merely an introduction as the main content is in the video. I highly encourage you to watch it for the full experience on what the episode is truly all about.
Dear Bianca V Vol 1
Welcome to #DearBiancaV Volume 1!
In case you landed on this page wondering what #DearBiancaV is all about. In a nutshell, I am continuing the work I’ve been doing by giving advice on Good Times with Mo: The Podcast (5 yrs to date), Ask.FM and as a Personality Development Speaker.
I get a lot of questions over the years, mostly privately from you guys on various topics. Since I truly do want to help, I might as well extend that help with this website.
#DearBiancaV Vol 1
So for this first episode of #DearBiancaV…
From dating disasters to dressing for your body type and dealing with something as dark as suicidal thoughts, here’s what I have to share on your dilemmas.
In the near future, given that the issue of suicide is very close to my heart, I will make sure to dedicate one full episode or more on that. For now, here’s a starter to #DearBiancaV.
LET ME HEAR FROM YOU
Don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel and send in your anonymous questions via Ask.FM or Facebook!
Feel free to comment as my ultimate goal is for all of us, not just me – to help out one another.
There’s a lot of love and good energy to share, which I hope will fuel this community of ours. 💛
Love & Light,
Bianca
NOTE: This written post is merely an introduction as the main content is in the video. I highly encourage you to watch it for the full experience on what the episode is truly all about.
Falling in Love: Kawachi Fuji-en Wisteria Garden
I am a city girl.
Meaning? I would choose a shoe closet over a garden balcony any day.
Being raised in the suburbs with a large garden and a mother who has a bonded relationship with her botanical “children,” I grew up with zero desire for such.
As human nature dictates, you crave the opposite of what you’re used to.
It wasn’t until I walked into the Kawachi Fuji-en Wisteria Tunnel.
As I write this, I can still remember the feeling of stepping inside as I froze in disbelief. Then I sighed. Then I nearly cried.
As you saw in the video… It was swift, soft and sudden: like falling in love for the very first time.
Where your heart is racing whilst the gushing wind softly whispers in your ear as an ecstatic giddiness surges through you and yet makes you weak in your knees.
Everything and nothing all at once.
It was magic. Absolute magic.
Mesmerized from jaw-drop-at-first-sight, who knew flowers propped up in tunnel form could be so inexplicably life-changing?
“Wherever life plants you, bloom with grace.” ~ French Proverb
I once read somewhere that people are like flowers as we bloom at different speeds; some slower or faster than others.
Similarly, we cannot force flowers to bloom: they will at their own pace, place and time.
Truth be told, I am a late bloomer.
And with every experience I find myself in, another tunnel to and from my heart opens up more and more and more.
Yes, I may have been surrounded by magical wisteria blooms but I find that it was me who was awakened that spring morning in May 2015.
I was introduced to a new side of myself, one that I never, ever thought possible: to be nature-loving.
Since then, if you’ve seen my Instagram posts, I’ve visited many gardens, fields and valleys to peak my desire for all things flora – particularly in, with the love of my traveling heart, Japan.
And it all started here in this very garden, tucked away in the outskirts of Fukuoka.
We all believe we are set in our ways. We have set labels for others and ourselves and at a certain ripe age, we believe we have already reached our peak.
I encourage you to think beyond that.
For as long as we are alive, realize that the ability to ‘bloom’ beyond our understanding has no expiration date.
You are allowed to change your mind – about yourself, your tastes and your beliefs: That is growth.
Though my desire for real plants in my own crib has had a funny case of stunted growth, I will certainly keep searching the world for the next floral offerings of spring.
Anyone here a late bloomer like me? Still get painfully awkward at the most random times, lol? I know I do. Always.
Love & light,
Bianca
Location : Kawachi Fuji-en Wisteria Garden, Fukuoka, Japan
Hair Color by Danny Katalbas of Basement Salon, SM Aura