Meet Tabithathecat

Martial Artist, Traveller who likes to boogie.

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Bali 2026!

The holiday destination in Bali, Indonesia is an exotic destination spoken about over the years. Many travellers talk about travelling to places like Bali, Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand. This was my first time with the assistance of a tour guide plus travelling with other fellow backpackers from around the world. I packed quite light, only bringing two backpacks to bring onboard the flight.

Many notable highlights and experiences including cool music and DJ sets at Mexicana, my first ever experience in snorkeling off Gili Island, a 1400M elevated climb and hike up Mt Batur, a second final attempt in learning how to surf, which didn’t go down too well and multiple karaoke sessions which was great fun with the group.

The guided tour was fantastic overall, I couldn’t find any real faults. Maybe one minor thing is to be reminded of when and where we will be meeting as the trip progresses. I guess the tour operator didn’t want to repeat himself or be like a father to us. The experience was unique and I got to explore some unfamiliar places of Bali which can be challenging to plan and find without the help of a tour. The tour guide has unique relationships with business owners and vendors as this helps to create the whole tour experience as a traveller but you’re also supporting the local economy in itself.

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Japan & Phillipines 2025!

Another trip to Japan but this time adding on the very first experience to the Phillipines. I didn’t know what to expect but this time it was a different one where we were staying in a neighbourhood friendly area in Asakusa within Tokyo to start off with. The trip overall felt localised and we opted to make it that way for an enjoyable experience. Overall it was smooth, flexible and no problems at all. There are too many highlights to mention. Some notable highlights include:

Being invited to a surprise luncheon with Japanese locals in Hachiōji on a lazy, rainy Sunday afternoon where we spoke about our Japanese travelling experiences, Australia and what to expect when travelling there as well as random questions about the world. I found out that English teachers only get paid 200,000 yen per month as their standard salary, before incentives and other things are included. It was great to see how Japanese locals unwind and relax over a weekend in a group catch up.

The trip then moved to the Phillipines, we stayed in the city areas being in Manila, Kampanga and Makati. Unfortunately we did not go out to the popular beach resorts which everyone mentions, such as Palawan or Boracay. Nevertheless, they are busy cities with something to see for everyone. Lots of large shopping malls to help you stay cool from the hot weathered sun. Filipino cuisine consists of lots of meat dishes paired with rice which was delicious to start off with but I was really craving vegetables and a balanced diet by the end of the Philippines experience (I also caught the flu towards the end). We had no problems with the locals and managed to stay safe and sound despite hearing and seeing many bad stories of robberies and things being stolen. Noli, our designated driver and tour guide, managed to give us a very good experience travelling in his Grab taxi ride who we happily assisted along the way as you need a Grab to get around places.

Upon our return trip to Japan, the nature walk and train ride to Nikko was something definitely to do if you’re wanting to get out of Tokyo city life. The rich Autumn leaves, waterfalls, shrines and temples are all photo worthy and part of the experience. It’s a unique day trip out and about also not to mention the voluntary praying and embracing in Japanese spirituality.

It’s very hard to select a favourite and define what delicious Japanese food is, they were all very good including convenient store items. If I had to pick a favourite it would be the dry ramen noodles which cost just 800 yen located near Iriya station. The restaurant itself only seats 13 patrons. All orders are serviced through a vending ticket machine and a man in the middle who takes the ticket orders. Meals are not as expensive as people make it seem.

The shopping experiences in purchasing gifts were seamless, helpful and smooth in both countries. Service was attentive and knowledgeable but also personally interactive as well.

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Auckland & Wellington Travels

I was looking forward to these holidays as I knew very little of New Zealand despite going to Queenstown on a previous trip. Why not experience being a Kiwi by visiting two cities in Auckland and Wellington. Here were some of the highlights.

Federal Delicatessen was the first stop just before the tremendous sky views at Sky Tower. I personally think you need to dip it in the complimentary sauces combined, which consist of tomato relish, American mustard and the tabasco sauce for added punch. Mrs Higgins does make fresh tasting cookies. I had an obsession over cheese scones by the end of the trip in Wellington.

Viator provides quality small group tours which serves an independent traveller in myself. Both tour guides provided great inspiration to get back onto the road with their passion, positivity and strong enthusiasm being with people and helping people out with their travel experiences. David in Auckland being a Korean, who was proactive with his group photo shoots and charm. Marc who is an eccentric and funny Frenchman living in Wellington. Both had a good chunky sale as well.

The experience in Auckland was short, sweet and had good momentum. Wellington felt a bit slower and I got tick off all the main places to do in Mount Victoria, the Cable Car, Cuba Street, Lambton Quay and lastly a chocolate making class on a heavy rainy day where I created three different flavoured chocolate blocks for the family.

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What's good in year 2025?

What’s in store this year for yourself in the year 2025? Make an impact this year whatever it is you are working on. For me I have a bit of weight to shed given all the great food I’ve had over the festive season including a recent all you can eat Japanese BBQ with my brother and niece. The next day I went for a cycling session with my morning coffee and I felt spectacular with only half the level of guilt given the food binge. Not to mention getting back into training by upping the intensity and learning the new martial arts patterns for this year.

Last number of years I found the grounding, the foundations, captivating and focusing on the interests. Now it is about finding the craft and specialising in the craft!

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Last post in December

I would describe this year as a significant impactful year on multiple levels in facing challenges head on whilst working within the system, discipline, continuity and understanding change.

Sceptics, the worries and talk are just temporary. The suffering and struggle are simply just part of the process. It’s not about fault and blame. I am at peace and remain optimistic.

The results are rewarding, altruistic and impactful. Each individual to their own, not everyone will understand or through genuine interest. Being versatile and optimistic serves a place here.

I can sit comfortably and have a coffee by myself or with any individual and engage in fruitful conversations. 

Have a great weekend and enjoy the festive season ahead!

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Enjoy slowness

We all are striving and grinding day to day in meeting responsibilities and having commitments. Cramming things in your calendar or a task because it needs to be done or to appear busy all the time.

Though at times taking a step back and slowing down is a very good step to take.

Practicing mindfulness about how we spend our time, appreciating the simple things, the quiet moments. Yes, I used to think this was a loose term thrown around to make it sound fabulous. The less is more approach in making less plans and less things to do which means doing activities which are fun and bring joy.

Schedule the time to adjust and reconnect to what really matters. What are the activities or interests which bring you joy and you think is worth investing your energy into? 

Enjoy the moment and embrace in quietness.

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How art brings light to all people

I was recently watching the Paris 2024 Olympics whilst preparing for my online finals exam in cybersecurity as I love all sports which inspired me to write this post. The Olympic sport which was showing was breakdancing. It was interesting, entertaining and something different to watch. It made me think a bit about the time when I took up parkour, which was a weekend hobby of mine back many years ago shortly after completing high school. I must say the extensive amount of training these athletes do over many years in which they only have a small window to perform on the big stage is quite full on.

In this world, we are exposed to many different ideas where we can self-express in many different ways. Here in this example the main theme in art allows us to see things in more ways and helps shed light to different situations. It could be an inspirational song, a particular movie scene or a family activity you did with the kids. The point is the experimentation process is where it all starts. 

My one is writing and connecting to people through this medium and engaging with my martial arts practice. Exploring and traveling is the most natural and organic way of doing this. Here in this example is through walking outdoors as this helps me refresh and find ideas which I really enjoy.

What are you currently creating and building on?

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How the role of art heals individuals

It’s been busy on my end with training, research, reflecting and preparing for my finals exam which has been challenging, rewarding and fun. I learnt a lot and during my day dreaming periods I thought about a topic of interest to write about which is often overlooked and underappreciated. 

This month’s topic in Art which I had very little understanding when it came to the topic. For a long time, I was told that Art isn’t beneficial because it doesn’t land a job or an income. I guess when you’re a student you are advised by elders who are simply coming from a good place of familiarity. I sat on this assumption without exploring until recently, where the appreciation of art does have its place in society where I started looking at how it can heal suffering individuals on multiple levels. It assists the individual by opening their mind and embracing positive change.

Individuals may be suffering from mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, trauma and other related illnesses. The practice of art has been effective in the healthcare setting whether this may be prescribed therapy or even something simple like activities such as drawing, writing, painting, music and singing are some just to name a few. The engagement in mindfulness activities is therapeutic which can be done in the comfort of your own home ideally somewhere quiet or in nature such as a garden. Alternatively these activities along with others can be done in community settings whether it's your local library, an individual or group class or even a secluded retreat. It’s a low cost solution which has proven to be effective in the recovery stage which has stood the test of time. 

The role of art can be the start of something inspirational for all living this busy chaotic world.

More information can be found in the below link:

Making art is a uniquely human act, and one that provides a wellspring of health benefits

From drawing to gardening and woodworking, self-expression can lower stress, improve mood and increase self-confidence.

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Following recommendations from few travellers and commuters spontaneous decision on a winter Saturday morning to take a cold water plunge at Bondi iceberg pools.

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Hello July,

I've been quite busy and working on quite a number of things. It's a good thing to keep engaged whilst having that healthy distance being playing on the road. We spend a lot of time at work and being engaged with learning so we should enjoy and make the most of it. I am also having a lot of fun in talking to people, watching sports, reflecting and laughing lots. What have you been engaged and focused on in the month of July?

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Success and Failure

This week and month has been a very busy one but equally a rewarding and significant one in continuing with my training and taking my overseas relatives out. One aunty I had not seen for over thirty three years. The theme of success and failure came to light, the current place I am working at announced that they will be closing and the owner told me that he hasn’t been sleeping well. He has a six month old newborn to look after along with his wife. I informed him of the practical resources that were available to him to assist him along with his family.

We are used to seeing success being defined as fame, money and attracting the opposite gender. This is very surface level, like seeing a stem and flower of the plant without looking at what is beneath the surface. Failure teaches us lessons and presents us opportunities. We don’t like to talk about struggles, but why? When we need to ask for help, we are seen as inadequate and become afraid. The fact is that no one can do this life alone. Don’t be afraid to chat to someone you feel comfortable with whether that be a family member, a close friend, a trusted colleague and seek assistance when it is due.

[tabithathecat23]

May Post

We are already in May, start this month by lighting the fire in you by working on something. Rather than checking social media for the whole day, use this time to do work and develop your interests. Revisit your goal which you have set out? Ask yourself how is that going? It could be that you are working on a promotion at work, or perhaps a holiday you are planning with friends or maybe something simple such as some tasks or social events that you have planned this weekend. Start by doing.

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Less technology, more doing.

This month, light the fire in you by working on your interests. Show the world what you've been working on. Each individual is unique in their talents and abilities. Rather than checking social media and sitting at home watching technology for the whole day because technology is dividing society in negative ways. Start by doing and let’s get to work, what is a goal you have set this year? Perhaps a project you are working on or maybe it’s about planning your next holiday and scheduling that necessary break after achieving something. Let’s do it.

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Compassion

We all come from different backgrounds and experiences whether it’s with a person or a certain environment or a particular social setting. To move on and develop the ability to let go, brings clarity to the mind. Of course this is easier said than done. For good and better things to come, the negativity must leave. It can be challenging to reach the middle ground with someone who we may care about. It can be more challenging to draw compassion. The most challenging part is taking this compassion to the furthest level to the level of love. Do you have what it takes? Inspire your family, friend, your neighbour or someone you may know and show that compassion.

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Warrior vs Loser

What is the difference between a warrior and a loser? I’ve been asked this question quite a number of times. Simply put, the warrior keeps going and going. The “loser” is just in a temporary period of adversity and feeling alone on an individual mental level. I am in no position to judge nor should you. I remember just a while ago I assisted a man who shared his past experience of a relationship which didn’t work out for him at the time. As a traveller passing by, we connected well and I assisted him through this process. He improved his situation by attending church and seeking religious inspiration and speaking to his friends. He invited me to play pool with his group of friends. Upon meeting this gentleman, I asked myself - How can I contribute even if it's a small one? How can I be of service today?

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How Motion started

I enjoy improving things in this world. One way of doing it is to write about it through the Motion blog. It has become a passionate hobby of mine in expanding on the topic of health and learning. it’s not about fame, accolades and recognition. People (and the good ones know who they are over the years) all experience these things. I felt there was a need for a fact driven resource to refer to. Maybe they don’t feel the need to meet with a friend for a coffee so their preference is in self serve troubleshooting. The motivations started with a few ideas which manifested and drawing the connections with my martial arts training, observations, conversations and research. This is an extras post, stay tuned for this month’s post on the warrior vs the loser.

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New Year 2024 Post

Not everyone will understand you nor are they going to get it but you can choose to understand yourself. Accept and know that everyday is a journey, because no one enters this world as a superhero.

Continue to strive for greatness, improve day by day and open your mind. You will see over time you will become the better version of yourself from yesterday. 

You can achieve solitude and independence which will develop the ability to connect with others. Connect, experience, learn and grow.

Wishing you a new year of 2024, may be the best year it has to offer you.