21 ways to make yourself better in 2021

With an increased focus on wellness, more people turning to meditation for a safe space amidst the chaos. For good reason too, since it has been hailed to reduce stress, increase calmness and clarity, and promote happiness. Need help getting started? Check out our beginner's guide to meditation here. 

Tarot is becoming a popular tool for introspection and self-reflection. Want to know what's on the cards for this year and how to make the most of 2021? We ask three tarot readers in Singapore. 

Fitspo queens and kings have a variety of gyms in Singapore to choose from – from spinning to CrossFit studios. If you choose to stay fit at home, download these best fitness and workout apps. 

Say goodbye to waste and embrace sustainability this year by shopping at these best places to shop for eco-friendly products and brands in Singapore. 

If you're searching for your next favourite musician or band, you don't have to look far. For a comparatively small music scene, Singapore's a breeding ground for some of the region's best talents – with genres like rock, indie, hip-hop, and even lo-fi beats covered. Get to know some homegrown talents you should be listening to now.

One of our favourite things about weekends is waking up slightly later and having a hearty brunch at the best cafes in town. Order up regular eggs on toast, ricotta pancakes or a comforting bowl of pasta while sipping on a cup of joe. 

If you've got some free time, lend a helping hand to charities in need. After all, there's no time like the present to get involved –whether it's assisting migrant workers and caring for children, to helping rescue animals and clean-up drives. Here are some places to volunteer at in Singapore. 

Need a furry companion in your life? Choose to adopt a rescue instead. After all, Singapore is littered with strays and abandoned pets that have resulted in overcrowded animal shelters. Head on to these pet shelters in Singapore with plenty of cats, dogs, rabbits and more looking for a place to call a forever home.

Horse riding is a fulfilling sport that is highly therapeutic at the same time – but you don't have to save it for vacation days. In the past, you'd have to pay hefty membership fees in order to take up classes. But horse riding has become a more accessible sport now, with more stables offering non-membership-based horse riding classes. Whether you're an advanced rider or a beginner, get on the saddle and learn horse riding at these stables in Singapore. 

New year, new you. Invest in a capsule wardrobe with flattering pieces that you feel good in, get a fresh new hairstyle at the best hair salons in Singapore or treat yourself to a nice facial treatment.

If you're planning to go meat-free this year, there's more to vegan and vegetarian grub than leafy greens and raw vegetables. These restaurant kitchens in Singapore are churning out wholesome, plant-based without compromising on taste. 

Broaden your horizons and find something new you enjoy. Need ideas? Here are seven exciting hobbies you can pick up this year. 

It doesn't matter if you're an introvert or extrovert. Anyone can benefit from making journaling a habit. Grab one of your empty notebooks and write down your thoughts and feelings to understand them more clearly. Keeping a journal helps with your mental health as well.

Put on your best trekking shoes, slap on some sunscreen and go on foot to explore Singapore's greenery. These beautiful hidden (and not so hidden) trails around the island are the best places to start. 

Let some nature into your personal space by bringing home a plant.. or two. Not only do they lend a pop of colour to the room, plants help clean the air so you can breathe easy. Intrigued? Here are our favourite shops and nurseries for indoor plants. 

If you've been busy at work, here's a reminder to spend time your other half this year. Reserve a table at the most romantic restaurants in Singapore or spend a night at the sexiest hotel rooms around town. 

It's a known fact that some of the most successful people in the world read every day. Want to improve yourself this year? Make it a point to turn inward and read more. Browse through these old-school bookstores for some serendipitous finds or check out the most anticipated book releases of 2021. 

If one of your New Year's resolutions is to brush up on your art knowledge, our local museums and galleries are great places to start. Plus, most of them offer free entry to Singaporeans. Not sure where to start? We've curated a list of the best upcoming art exhibitions to check out this month. 

One of the lessons last year taught us was the importance of having savings. If you haven't already, 2021 is an ideal time to school yourself on managing finances by taking an online course or start a daily spending budget sheet. 

If you're good with your hands, consider joining a pottery class. Flaunt your creative juices and start making your own cups, saucers, vases and unique pieces. Here are eight studios in Singapore to learn this trendy craft. 

Your abode is where you spend most of your time in, so make it comfy. Get a new rug, invest in a piece of furniture that sparks joy or buy some art for your home at Singapore's best home decor and furniture stores.