… and Singapore embraces Health & Vitality right back! – as apparent in its healthy, positive and vibrant outlook.

Having no idea what would be in store for my family and I when we moved to Asia six years ago as expatriates, we now proudly call Singapore home.

I write this as I return to our Little Red Dot after a summer with family and friends back in Europe. Of course, it was wonderful. However, I am so excited to be returning home in time for the ‘Golden Jubilee Plus Two’ Celebrations – my husband reassures me that all things born in 1965 are destined for greatness.

Stereotypically, Singapore is sterile, has too many rules, is too humid, and is free of chewing gum, among other things, but when living here, none of these are apparent (okay, the humidity does produce far too many bad hair days ).

We continue to be in awe and honour the work of the late Lee Kuan Yew, who tirelessly fought and negotiated over decades to make Singapore the great nation that it is today. We appreciate the very low crime, the safe haven for our kids, the strong economy, the inter-racial society, and the socially vibrant garden city that is ideally located to explore the amazing and varied Southeast of Asia.

As we celebrate Singapore’s 52nd birthday, I proudly declare it to be the healthiest city and nation in the region. Since Health & Vitality Pte Ltd was incorporated five years ago, I continue to be pleasantly surprised with the many facets that enable and encourage us to lead healthier and more vibrant lives, and also enable a small business like mine to thrive.

For anyone trying to get healthier, or wishing to get involved in the health industry, these are what I believe to be the enablers to your success:

The weather

Yes, I haven’t had a good hair day in six years but I do get to enjoy hours in the outdoors every day. The warmth and sunshine encourage a host of activities for participants to enjoy – from early morning bootcamp or yoga classes, swimming and water activities, to evening running and cycling groups. Whatever activity you enjoy, there’s no excuse not to participate as Singapore offers it all.

Geographic location

Green Singapore makes the most of its tropical geographical location with many city gardens, parks, beaches and waters. The island’s parks are linked so you can jog or cycle in safety and in nature for hours; beaches and waters are kept clean so all can enjoy watersports and beach activities.

Close proximity to other nations

This, along with its social outlook encourages many organised group charity sporting events, along with sporting and competitive excursions to nearby countries.

Entrepreneurial spirit

Being so multicultural, strong economically and open to ideas, Singapore is a wonderful place to set up a business. The many clubs and societies provide incredible networking platforms and socialising opportunities. I continue to be amazed at how people are so willing to assist and collaborate as I continue to grow my business.

Healthcare

The Singaporean healthcare system is valued as one of the best worldwide. The Health Promotion Board offers many free initiatives encouraging people to get and stay fit and healthy, while adopting a good work-life balance. Tax deductions and subsidies are offered to companies who participate in wellness initiatives.

Connectivity

Singapore has a very high use of social media enabling cheap and free targeted marketing to its many entrepreneurs. Whatever platform you like to use, rest assured that your reach will be significant in Singapore’s significant population.

The Food

Eating is a favourite pastime for the islanders with a vibrant and varied offering of restaurants across the island. Organic and local healthy produce availability continues to increase with new health shops popping up frequently in response to higher demands. It is also wonderful to see a greater supply in recent years of organic and healthy fresh produce from neighbouring countries, which in most cases can be ordered online for next-day delivery!

As 5.6 Million islanders start to celebrate this wonderful nation together across the island, all proudly dressed in red and white – which coincidentally are the colours of my home county (Cork, Ireland) – to make me really feel at home; I wish to say a big “Thank You” to Singapore for all it is, and for all it continues to be.

Happy #SG52!

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