Sri Lanka is famous for its tea, temples, and tropical beaches, but I arrived seeking something more profound: Ayurveda, the ancient Indian wellness system known as the “science of life.” Ayurveda takes a holistic approach to health, aiming to balance mind, body, and spirit. At its heart are the three fundamental energies, or doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. In simple terms, these doshas are like elemental personality types. Vata (air and ether) is the energy of movement – think creativity and spontaneity, but also restlessness. Pitta (fire and water) is the force of transformation – passionate and driven, though prone to intensity. Kapha (earth and water) embodies stability – caring and calm, but sometimes complacent. Each of us is born with a unique mix of these doshas, and if they fall out of balance, Ayurveda says our well-being suffers.

My journey led me to a boutique wellness retreat in southern Sri Lanka, where I hoped to discover which dosha dominated my being – and how to bring my life into harmony. Little did I know I’d be balancing sun, sand, and centuries-old wisdom on this trip.

My quest for balance began at Christell Wellness, an Ayurvedic spa tucked within the luxurious Aditya Boutique Hotel near Galle. On arrival, I was greeted with a warm smile and a cup of herbal tea. Soon I met Dr. D, the in-house Ayurvedic doctor, who had trained for seven years in Ayurvedic medicine – the same length of training as a conventional, Western doctor. The consultation was unlike any standard check-up – more personal, more compassionate. Dr. D first took my pulse, gently pressing three fingers to my wrist. She closed her eyes in concentration, feeling the rhythm of my blood. This ancient pulse-reading technique felt oddly familiar; traditional Chinese medicine uses a similar method to glean insights into one’s health. Much like a TCM practitioner, Dr. D was not just looking for symptoms, but aiming to understand my constitution. She examined my tongue and eyes, observed my posture and skin, and asked detailed questions about my diet, sleep, and stress. The holistic, individualised approach seemed to focus on the whole person rather than looking for disease or isolated symptoms.

After this thorough once-over, the verdict was in: I am a classic Vata-Pitta type – a blend of two doshas. This didn’t surprise me. I’ve always had a (relatively) light build and racing mind (hallmarks of Vata), yet I’m also intensely goal-oriented and warm-natured (very Pitta). Dr. D smiled knowingly as she described my tendencies: “You love new experiences and travel,” she said – true – “but you push yourself hard and can overheat – physically and mentally.” Also true. It was like having my personality read back to me in ancient poetic terms.

What came next was not a bottle of pills, but personalised life-long, life-hacks for my Vata-Pitta balance. Dr. D’s recommendations were refreshingly down-to-earth – basically, lots of “cool” tropical fruits and chill, less espresso and frantic living. She advised me to incorporate more cooling, hydrating foods into my days: think crisp cucumber salads, juicy watermelon, and plenty of king coconut water (Sri Lanka’s ubiquitous orange coconut, loved for its electrolytes and cooling effect in Ayurveda). I was to avoid chilies and sour foods (noooo!), as well as cut down on coffee, black tea, alcohol, and other stimulants, since all of these crank up the heat and dryness in a Vata-Pitta person.

Instead of my usual spicy curry obsession, I should favour meals that are creamy, sweet, or bland to soothe my doshas – foods like whole grains, ghee (clarified butter), leafy greens, and sweet ripe fruits. To my relief, being healthy didn’t mean starving: “Eat regular, warm, moist meals,” the doctor emphasised. In fact, regularity is medicine for someone like me who is often on the go – a steady routine helps calm flighty Vata (no more skipping meals). Healthy fats like ghee are pacifying for both Vata and Pitta, keeping my body nourished and cool.

As I scribbled notes, I couldn’t help noticing how much of this advice resonated with good old common sense and even with Western health trends: stay hydrated, eat fresh whole foods, don’t drink alcohol, don’t over-caffeinate. It also echoed tips I’d heard from a TCM nutritionist – for instance, both Ayurveda and Chinese medicine warn that too much coffee or alcohol can aggravate heat and agitation. Dr. D was effectively blending ancient wisdom with practical health coaching. The mystique of the pulse reading gave way to a very pragmatic wellness plan – one I was eager to try out during the rest of my stay.

Side note, I am over a month into applying the doctor’s advice and here’s what happened. The first week was hard as I cut caffeine, spice, and alcohol. Week two was easy and I felt more rested, energetic and focused. I used to feel exhausted in the afternoon and would often need a nap. After two weeks, I was waking around 6am to have an active, full day and then sleep well from 10pm, no naps needed! My stomach stopped feeling bloated, my problematic periods (so far) seem calmer. My skin is glowing, my eyes bright. I feel well. 

Discover your Dosha 

Over a soothing cup of gotu kola herbal tea, I learned more about the other doshas and how anyone can recognise and rebalance their own.

Vata – The Airy Creative: Vata people tend to be slim, energetic, and imaginative. They often talk fast, think fast, and walk fast. When balanced, Vatas are lively and enthusiastic. When imbalanced, they may feel anxious, spacey, or suffer insomnia. How to spot one? Cold hands and feet, variable appetite, a love of travel or movement. Balance tips: Keep warm and on a routine; favour warm, soft foods like soups, stews, cooked fruits and grains. Vatas thrive on moist, nourishing meals – think oatmeal with ghee, hearty root veggies – and should avoid cold, raw, or dried foods (like salads, crackers, or ice cream) that aggravate their naturally dry, airy nature.

Pitta – The Fiery Achiever: Pitta types have a medium, athletic build and sharp intellect. They’re natural leaders – organised, driven, and competitive – but can get irritable or “hot-headed” under stress. How to spot one? Warm body temperature, strong appetite, and a tendency to flush or get red when upset or after a spicy meal. Balance tips: Think cool and calm. Pittas feel best when they chill out (literally and figuratively). They should favour cooling foods and drinks – plenty of fresh water, coconut water, sweet fruits, cucumbers, and leafy greens. Meals should be less spicy and oily, more light and refreshing: imagine a watermelon salad or a bowl of coconut rice. It’s wise for Pittas to avoid excess chili, hot spices, vinegar, red meat, alcohol and coffee, as these inflame the inner fire.

Kapha – The Earthy Nurturer: Kapha folks are solidly built with a calm, easy-going demeanour. They’re the reliable, loving types that everyone leans on. Balanced Kaphas are patient, strong, and sweet-natured. Out of balance, Kapha can turn to lethargy, weight gain, or melancholy. How to spot one? Sturdy frame, slow but graceful movement, and they rarely get flustered. Balance tips: Invigorate and lighten up. Kaphas benefit from spicy, warming foods and lively activity. They should reach for fruits and veggies of all colours, lean proteins, and use warming spices (ginger, turmeric, black pepper) liberally. Light meals like steamed greens with ginger, or a spicy lentil soup, are great. Kaphas should moderate heavy, fatty, or super-sweet foods – think twice on that cheesy dessert – as those can increase sluggishness. A strong cup of ginger tea is Kapha’s best friend.

Most of us are a mix of doshas, and identifying your dominant one(s) is empowering. The Ayurvedic bottom line: to stay healthy, increase the qualities that balance you and reduce the ones that throw you off-kilter. It’s elegantly simple and highly personalised – one reason this 5,000-year-old system is still around. 

Aditya – the affordable 5-star resort in southern Sri Lanka

Armed with my new self-knowledge, I felt ready to embrace the next part of my journey: living the good life at a stunning beach retreat that merges luxury with wellness.

Aditya Boutique Hotel is located in Rathgama, on Sri Lanka’s south coast, about a 25-minute drive from Galle Fort. From Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport, plan on a 3–4 hour drive by car (the new highway can shorten the trip to around 2.5 hours). It’s best to book a private car or Uber through the hotel for a smooth and scenic transfer. It’s really a beautiful drive – so green and colourful. We slept for an hour and then enjoyed the gorgeous scenery for the rest of the drive. Our driver was super friendly and professional, and we felt safe. 

Flights from London to Colombo start at around £400 return with a stopover, or direct via SriLankan Airlines. From Hong Kong, expect routes via Kuala Lumpur or Singapore or direct with some airlines. 

Rates at Aditya start from around £150 per night (approximately HKD 1500), which includes a huge, sprawling suite with plunge pool, thoughtful service, and personalised attention you won’t find elsewhere. If you’re a Hong Konger, this bang for your buck will not disappoint. This hotel is curated, quiet, calm, and elegant. No crowds. No fuss. Just you, the ocean, and the scent of frangipani in the air.

To book: https://aditya-resort.com/ | https://www.christellskin.com/

Created as a celebration of Raw Lily’s growing community and mission, Dear Future Me offered a safe, nurturing space to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with intention. Held at the cutting-edge studio 10x Longevity, a haven for biohacking and restorative longevity therapies, the event featured guided sessions by Raw Lily founder Tina Shum and wellness teacher Rainbow Kwok, followed by journaling, refreshments, and access to Hong Kong’s premier wellness circuit, including infrared sauna, HBOT oxygen therapy, and cold plunge.

“Raw Lily was created to take the guesswork out of wellness – by raising the bar for everyday products and advocating for a healthier way of living.”, said Tina Shum. “This event wasn’t just about celebrating how far we’ve come,  it was about creating space for the people who have helped shape who we are – the content creators, media voices, and wellness seekers who care deeply about transparency, wellbeing, and growth”.

Dear Future Me reflects Raw Lily’s belief that wellness should feel good, be rooted in trust, and meet the pace of modern life – without compromise.

About Raw Lily

Raw Lily is a wellness retailer offering a curated selection of clean, safe, and beautifully crafted products for the whole family. Every product is vetted through The Raw Standard™, a proprietary protocol ensuring transparency, efficacy, and safety. Raw Lily exists to make wellness feel trustworthy and joyful again.

Find us Raw Lily

About 10x Longevity

10x Longevity is Hong Kong’s leading biohacking and recovery studio. With a science-backed focus on physical restoration and performance, their offerings include infrared sauna, cold plunge, red light therapy, and HBOT oxygen chambers, all set against sweeping views of Hong Kong’s city skyline.

Find us 10x Longevity

About Rainbow Kwok

Rainbow Kwok is a wellness teacher and energy practitioner who blends ancient wisdom with modern science. She is known for her intuitive, trauma-informed approach to Reiki, meditation, and movement, creating experiences that are both healing and practical.
Find us Rainbow Kwok 

BIOS

Tina Shum is the founder of Raw Lily, a wellness retailer rooted in transparency, integrity, and thoughtful curation. A Certified Health Coach through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, Tina launched Raw Lily after her own frustration with misinformation and greenwashing in the wellness industry. She is the architect of The Raw Standard™ – a protocol that ensures every product is safe, effective, and made to support real lives.

Rainbow Kwok is an international wellness guide integrating Eastern philosophy with modern mindfulness. Certified by Harvard Medical School in Wellness and Lifestyle Coaching, she blends yoga, pranayama, meditation, and Reiki to help clients release trauma, reduce anxiety, and build inner clarity. She leads on wellness programs at Rosewood Hong Kong and has led sessions globally, from Morocco to Mexico to UC Berkeley at Tsz Shan Monastery.

Jill Van Vugt Following a 15 year career as a litigation lawyer, working on complex medical malpractice and personal injury cases, Jill left the safety of the corporate world to start 10x Longevity.  Noticing a lack of evidence-based wellness treatments in Hong Kong, Jill saw an opportunity to offer a unique experience in active recovery to Hong Kong’s chronically stressed and overworked population of urban professionals. 

Through a partnership with The Upper House and Pacific Place Apartments, 10x  Longevity was born into a private and serene oasis. 10x offers personalized wellness solutions for everyone, incorporating infrared sauna, cold plunge, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, red light therapy and skin treatments into customizable sessions that help you feel and look your best.

A creator event by Raw Lily, delivered by WOI.

For media inquiries, please contact info@whiteorchidinsights.com or sarah@whiteorchidinsights.com

An Interview with Jolie Beauté’s Founder, Dr Yip:

For years, Jolie Beauté was one of Hong Kong’s best-kept skincare secrets. Tucked away just two MTR stops from Central — above Jordan station — it quietly built a reputation among those in the know. From celebrities and KOLs to actors and high-profile professionals, Dr Yip’s clinic became a trusted destination not for chandeliers or Instagrammable decor, but for science-led results, transparent pricing, and a rare sense of trust.

There are no aggressive sales pitches here. No upsells. No pressure. Just a clear, evidence-based approach to skincare and aesthetics — with Dr Yip, a trained surgeon and medical aesthetics expert, at the helm. Every patient knows exactly what they’re signing up for before they walk in. Transparent pricing, expert care, and the kind of calm clarity that’s increasingly hard to find.

We sat down with Dr Yip to talk about the new rules of skincare, why fillers are falling out of fashion, and how beauty has quietly shifted from trends to trust:

Dr Yip, let’s start with the basics. People often confuse Botox and fillers — what’s the difference?

Dr Yip: Great question — and one I hear almost daily. Botox and fillers are very different, both in how they work and what they’re designed to do.

Botox relaxes muscles. It’s typically used to soften expression lines — like crow’s feet, frown lines, and forehead creases — by reducing movement in the underlying muscle. The effect is temporary and can last 3–6 months.

Fillers, on the other hand, add volume. They’re made of substances like hyaluronic acid and are used to restore fullness — for example in cheeks, lips, under the eyes, or even the jawline. They’re great for contouring but must be used with precision, especially in the face where anatomy really matters.

Why have so many people stopped having filler?

Dr Yip: We’re seeing a shift away from that “overfilled” aesthetic. Patients are more informed now — they want to look fresher, not different. In some cases, filler was being used too often, or in areas where volume loss wasn’t the real issue.

There’s also growing awareness of filler fatigue — when repeated use leads to unnatural results or even distortion of facial features. In our clinic, we take a very conservative approach: if you don’t need it, we’ll tell you. Sometimes the answer isn’t more volume — it’s skin quality, collagen, or simply time.

What’s Rejuran? It’s gaining popularity — but what does it actually do?

Dr Yip: Rejuran is a polynucleotide-based injectable that works by stimulating the skin’s healing processes and boosting collagen production. It’s often called “skin healing treatment” and is excellent for improving skin texture, reducing fine lines, and treating acne scars.

It doesn’t change your shape, it doesn’t freeze muscles — it just helps the skin regenerate and repair itself from within. That’s why I love it. It’s subtle but powerful. Perfect for people who want their skin to look healthier, not necessarily “done”.

How does Morpheus8 fit into the picture?

Dr Yip: Morpheus8 is a powerful treatment that combines microneedling with radiofrequency (RF) to remodel skin and stimulate collagen production. What makes it different is the depth it can reach — anywhere from 2 to 7mm, depending on the area being treated.

On the face, we typically use depths of 2 to 4mm, tailored to each individual’s skin quality and fat distribution. On the body, we can go deeper, especially when targeting areas with more laxity.

But it’s not a one-size-fits-all treatment. Morpheus8 can burn fat, which is beneficial in some areas — but when treating the face, we actually want to preserve fat as we age, not reduce it. That’s why we take a gradual, personalised approach. The goal isn’t to shrink or over-tighten, but to refine, improve skin texture, and gently lift — all while respecting the natural structure of the face.

And what is Oligio? Is it like Ultherapy or Thermage?

Dr Yip: Oligio is a radiofrequency skin tightening treatment — it’s often compared to Thermage. It’s non-invasive, safe for most skin types, and ideal for people experiencing mild to moderate skin laxity.

While Thermage and Ultherapy work differently (Ultherapy uses ultrasound), Oligio is often more comfortable and gives a visible tightening effect over time. It stimulates collagen while improving elasticity, and it’s particularly popular around the jawline and neck.

Jolie Beauté has always taken a very understated approach — why?

Dr Yip: Because skin isn’t a trend. It’s biology. It reflects your health, hormones, habits — not just what serum you’re using. I don’t believe in chasing every new active ingredient or device. We carefully choose what works, based on science, not marketing.

Our patients trust us to be honest. If you don’t need something, I’ll tell you. If there’s a more effective or safer option, we’ll discuss it. We don’t do pushy packages, and you’ll always know what your bill is before you walk through the door. That matters to people — especially when it comes to their face.

What type of patient is Jolie Beauté best suited for?

Dr Yip: If you’re looking for a glam, Instagrammable clinic experience — we may not be for you. And that’s okay.

But if you want transparent pricing, a calm, discreet environment, and honest advice from someone who’s medically trained to understand the anatomy of your face — then we’re a good match. Many of our patients come in for skin health (facials and non-invasive treatments) between procedural appointments. Others just want to feel more like themselves again. We see tourists, professionals, new mums, and (lots of!) men — anyone who wants real results without the noise.

You’ve built a loyal following, but Jolie Beauté still feels like an IYKYK kind of place. Why do you think that is?

Dr Yip: We’ve never advertised heavily. It’s always been word of mouth. Patients who come here tend to stay with us for years. They value expertise over flash.

For many, it’s a place where they don’t have to second-guess — there’s no pressure, just honest, medically grounded skincare and aesthetic advice. And sometimes, that’s exactly what people are looking for.

The Quiet Confidence of Jolie Beauté

In a beauty space driven by trends, filters, and fast fixes, Jolie Beauté offers something refreshingly different. No noise, no push — just evidence-based treatments, medical expertise, and a deep respect for skin as something to care for, not correct.

Whether you’re here to restore balance, support healthy ageing, or simply get clarity on what your skin really needs, this is one of those rare clinics that treats beauty as personal — and where the results are designed to last.

Thank you for reading, if you found this useful, please pass it on. You may also find this interesting:

Morpheus 8: A Surgeon’s Take on Hong Kong’s Viral Skin Rejuvenation Treatment

Early Prevention and Surgical Advances in Glaucoma: A Conversation with Dr. Yip

This week, we sit down with Dr. Yip, an experienced surgeon and ophthalmologist, to discuss the importance of early glaucoma prevention, recognising warning signs, and the latest surgical approaches to managing this silent yet serious eye condition.

WOI: Glaucoma is often called the ‘silent thief of sight.’ Can you explain why that is?  

Dr. Yip: Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. What makes it particularly dangerous is that it progresses without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. People can lose a significant portion of their vision before they realise something is wrong. By the time peripheral vision is affected, the damage to the optic nerve is often advanced and cannot be reversed. This is why early detection and prevention are so critical.  

WOI: Who is most at risk for developing glaucoma?  

Dr. Yip: There are several key risk factors. Age is a major one—glaucoma becomes more common after the age of 40. Family history is another strong indicator; if a close relative has glaucoma, your risk increases significantly. Other risk factors include high eye pressure (intraocular pressure or IOP), thin corneas, diabetes, and extreme short- or long-sightedness. People of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent also tend to have a higher risk of certain types of glaucoma.  

WOI: What steps can people take to prevent glaucoma or catch it early?  

Dr. Yip: The most effective prevention strategy is regular eye exams. Comprehensive eye checks can detect early signs of glaucoma before symptoms appear. I recommend that individuals over 40 have an eye exam every two years, or annually if they have risk factors.  

In addition to eye exams, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can play a role in overall eye health. Controlling blood pressure, avoiding smoking, staying physically active, and protecting the eyes from injury are all good preventive measures. Some studies suggest that regular exercise may help reduce intraocular pressure, which is a key factor in glaucoma progression.  

WOI: When should someone consider surgery for glaucoma?  

Dr. Yip: Surgery is typically considered when other treatment methods, such as eye drops or laser therapy, fail to adequately control intraocular pressure. The goal of glaucoma surgery is not to restore lost vision but to slow or stop further damage by reducing eye pressure.  

There are several surgical options, depending on the type and severity of glaucoma. Some people benefit from minimally invasive procedures, while others require more advanced surgical interventions.  

WOI: Can you tell us more about the different types of glaucoma surgery? 

Dr. Yip: Certainly. There are three main categories of surgical intervention for glaucoma:  

1. Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): This is a relatively new category of procedures designed to lower intraocular pressure with minimal disruption to eye structures. MIGS procedures, such as the iStent or Hydrus Microstent, create tiny drainage pathways to help fluid exit the eye more efficiently. These surgeries are often performed in combination with cataract surgery and are best suited for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma.  
2. Trabeculectomy: This is a more traditional and widely performed procedure for moderate to advanced glaucoma. It involves creating a small drainage flap in the white of the eye (sclera) to allow excess fluid to drain, thereby lowering eye pressure. While effective, it requires careful post-operative care to prevent complications such as infection or excessive scarring.  
3. Glaucoma Drainage Implants: For patients with more severe or complex glaucoma, drainage implants such as the Ahmed or Baerveldt devices can be used. These tiny tubes help redirect fluid to an external reservoir, preventing pressure buildup. This approach is often used in cases where previous surgeries have failed.  

WOI: What are the risks and recovery expectations for glaucoma surgery?  

Dr. Yip: As with any surgical procedure, glaucoma surgery carries risks. These include infection, inflammation, bleeding, or a sudden drop in eye pressure. However, advances in surgical techniques and post-operative care have significantly improved safety and outcomes.  

Recovery time varies depending on the procedure. MIGS generally has a quick recovery, with minimal downtime. Trabeculectomy and drainage implants require a longer healing period, often involving weeks of close monitoring and the use of anti-inflammatory medications. Patients may experience blurred vision initially, but this typically stabilises over time.  

WOI: Are there any new developments in glaucoma treatment that people should be aware of?  

Dr. Yip: Yes, the field of glaucoma treatment is evolving rapidly. One exciting area of research is sustained-release drug delivery systems, which may eventually replace the need for daily eye drops. These include tiny implants that slowly release medication over several months, improving adherence to treatment.  

Another promising development is gene therapy. Scientists are exploring how genetic modifications might help regulate intraocular pressure and protect the optic nerve from damage. While still in the experimental stage, these approaches could revolutionise glaucoma management in the future.  

WOI: For those already diagnosed with glaucoma, what’s the most important thing they can do to preserve their vision?  

Dr. Yip: The most important thing is to follow their treatment plan consistently. Many people with glaucoma need to take medication for life to keep their eye pressure under control. Missing doses or stopping medication without consulting an ophthalmologist can lead to rapid vision loss.  

Regular follow-up visits are also crucial. Glaucoma is a progressive disease, and treatment plans may need to be adjusted over time. If surgery becomes necessary, patients should approach it as a proactive step to prevent further deterioration.  

Finally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle—good nutrition, exercise, and eye protection—can support overall eye health.  

WOI: What’s your final message to people who may be worried about glaucoma?  

Dr. Yip: Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. By the time you notice vision loss, it may be too late to reverse it. Regular eye exams are the best defence against glaucoma. With early detection, appropriate treatment, and in some cases surgery, we can significantly slow the progression of the disease and preserve vision for as long as possible.  

For more insights from Dr. Yip and updates on ophthalmology advancements, stay informed through trusted medical sources and schedule regular eye health check-ups.  

We hope you enjoyed this blog from WOI.