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    People Pleasing Can Have Some Harmful Mental Health Effects — Experts Say This Is How To Stop

    You always show up for others, even when that means overbooking your social calendar. You feel most satisfied putting your partner’s needs first, even when you feel burnt out. You feel an incessant need to pick up the slack at work, even when other co-workers aren’t pulling their weight. You’re exhausted and the worst part? No one even knows.

    Are You A People Pleaser By Definition?

    If this sounds like you, you may have some people-pleasing tendencies. And if you do, you’re not alone in your tendency to be a bit too accommodating. Nearly half of adults (49 percent) self-identified as people-pleasers in a 2022 YouGov poll. Considering society seems to be evenly split between givers and takers, trying to find a happy medium in any relationship can be tricky. Think about it: If there’s one people pleaser in a relationship, they’ll often choose the path of least resistance to keep the other person happy. When two people-pleasers get together, it can create a well-intentioned stalemate of “What do you want to do?” vs. “I don’t know, what do you want to do?”

    While a healthy relationship is a tango of balancing each person’s desires, “a people pleaser completely stifles their needs and wants, if they even know what they are, and lives their relationships through this very one-sided place,” says Krystal Mazzola Wood. This behaviour is often due to insecurities about their own self-worth, identity and relationships, says Jessica Carbino.

    Meet the Experts: Krystal Mazzola Wood, LMFT, is a certified therapist and the author of Setting Boundaries: 100 Ways to Protect Yourself, Strengthen Your Relationships and Build the Life You Want Starting Now. Jessica Carbino, PhD, is a dating and relationship sociologist who has worked with Tinder and Bumble. Lauren Cook, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist in California.

    While some key indicators of people-pleasing aren’t inherently negative per se, they can have some negative effects. Ahead, experts break down everything to know about people-pleasing, including five helpful ways to nip it for good.

    Signs Of A People Pleaser

    They go with the flow…to a fault.

    “People pleasers aren’t willing to assert themselves and make their needs known—even if they don’t agree,” says Carbino. “People pleasers kind of have a mindset of ‘I have to do whatever the group wants in order to not compromise the situation, despite what I want.’”

    They’re also less likely to be upfront about what they want in a relationship. So, maybe they agree to go on a hike even though they aren’t outdoorsy, or say yes to a sushi date despite their disdain towards seafood.

    They have a hard time saying no.

    Maintaining an agreeable attitude is super important to people pleasers, says Carbino. They’re inclined to say yes, even if it hinders them, because they often feel guilty if they say no, says Mazzola Wood: “The guilt typically manifests into this idea that if they do say no, then they’re being mean to others.”

    So, next time you feel guilty about being unable to attend two birthday parties on the same night, pause for a sec. “Feel the guilt and shift your relationship with it,” says Mazzola Wood. “Then, take the next actionable steps like setting boundaries.” (More on that later!)

    They always take the blame.

    Instead of playing the blame game, people pleasers will immediately take the fall and issue an apology so they don’t compromise the stability of the relationship, says Carbino. This sign is especially common in friendships—say the non-people pleaser suggests grabbing coffee with you, a people-pleaser, but then they forget about the plans and don’t show up. Rather than acknowledging that it was the other person’s fault that these plans fell through, a people pleaser will apologise for not confirming the plans…even though the coffee date was the other person’s idea.

    They stay in unfulfilling relationships.

    This is often due to a fear of disappointing their partner or making them upset once they start seriously dating someone else, says Lauren Cook. “People pleasers are more afraid of leaving the relationship, even if that may be in their best interest.”

    They forget how to articulate their wants and needs.

    One of the biggest indicators of people pleasing is when someone isn’t able to identify their own wants and needs, says Mazzola Wood. Say, for example, it’s your birthday and because you didn’t want to feel like a burden, you didn’t tell your S.O. to make dinner reservations at your favourite restaurant. You’re torn: You secretly feel upset they didn’t reserve a table, but you try to brush it off to avoid upsetting your S.O.

    They harbour resentment.

    Resentment is something that can build over time and eventually lead to a volcanic explosion of anger, says Cook. This can affect people pleasers, as they love to focus on others’ feelings and will even build you a soapbox to stand on whenever you need to rant. However, sometimes this can create one-sided relationships, resulting in resentment on the people pleaser’s side if they begin to feel like their thoughts and emotions don’t matter, says Mazzola Wood.

    They are consumed with being well-liked.

    While people pleasers hate being the centre of attention, they do feed off external validation and popularity. This is especially true in large families or friend groups, where it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle. However, their need for validation can be at a detriment to their own self-worth.

    “If everybody is raving about someone, that becomes a vicious cycle because it feeds the need of a people pleaser,” says Cook. “They are loved more for what they do than who they are.” Because people pleasers tend to put others’ needs before their own, their own desires often fall by the wayside, preventing them from being truly vulnerable with others.

    They experience a spike in anxious thoughts.

    Does your mind immediately jump to the worst-case scenario? Well, that’s another common sign of people-pleasing. “People pleasers get anxiety about others getting mad at them,” says Cook. “This can lead them to ruminate on things they may have done or said.” Sometimes, a people pleaser will even play out scenarios in their mind in which they try fictionally setting a boundary, but the other person lashes out or cuts them off, adds Cook. This tornado of anxiety can cause someone to spiral.

    READ MORE: 13 Signs You’re In A Toxic Relationship Or Friendship — And How To GTFO

    Causes Of A People Pleaser

    Most causes of people-pleasing develop in childhood, where certain traits (like the unrelenting desire to always be the best of the best, whether it’s in school, sports, or amongst your siblings) are applauded or labelled “good.” However, sometimes people-pleasing tendencies can also develop in adulthood via a toxic work environment or unhealthy romantic relationship. The most important thing is being able to identify the root of people-pleasing, so you learn and heal from it:

    Inheriting Performance Anxiety

    A lot of times, families will put pressure on kids to dominate in sports or get straight As in school. While typically exercised in good faith, this behaviour teaches young people pleasers how to perform for others. It can teach someone to believe that “they can’t make mistakes in order to keep others happy,” says Mazzola Wood.

    Lack Of Unconditional Love

    “If love or approval was given based on what someone did in the family versus their inherent being of who they are, that can prompt someone to feel like they have to do more and more to earn someone’s love,” says Cook. Conditional love can also occur in romantic relationships in which a people pleaser may feel as though they have to check all of their partner’s boxes to be worthy of their affection.

    Fear Of Abandonment

    “Abandonment is an emotional wound,” whether it’s experienced at a young age with a parent or as an adult in a romantic relationship, says Mazzola Wood. Individuals who have been neglected in the past will shift the focus onto someone else instead of themselves. They’ll place that person’s needs on a silver platter in hopes of preventing history from repeating itself, says Mazzola Wood.

    Harmful Adult Relationships

    People-pleasing behaviours can be triggered in adulthood, too. For instance, say someone tries to set boundaries with a toxic coworker only for the professional environment to turn sour. That can greatly diminish someone’s self-confidence and ability to use their voice. This situation can cause someone to overthink so much that “they can’t stand up for themselves in fear of being publicly scrutinised,” says Cook.

    READ MORE: 5 Practical Ways To Strengthen Your Relationship

    The Negative Effects Of Being A People Pleaser

    They experience high levels of anxiety.

    “Oftentimes, people pleasers don’t allow themselves the space to celebrate their achievements because they’re too focused on nailing the next big thing,” says Mazzola Wood.

    For instance, maybe they were promoted at work, but the position above them is still open for hire. Instead of going out for a celebratory drink, a people pleaser will stifle their accomplishment and ruminate on how they could’ve done better. This go-go-go energy can spiral into high levels of anxiety, excessive thoughts, pressure to perform and even panic attacks, she says.

    They tend to have one-sided—and unfulfilling—relationships.

    Many love keeping people pleasers around because they make great listeners, but the favour isn’t always returned to them. Because people pleasers often aren’t familiar with expressing their needs or emotions, they may feel like “they are living a life for everyone else and not for themselves,” says Cook. This pattern can lead someone to recluse emotionally and foster deep resentment towards others, which can ultimately manifest into snide remarks, then an all-out argument, and sometimes even break up relationships for good.

    They’re lonely.

    The pressure to feel like you’re well-liked by everyone can sometimes be isolating. It’s as if you’re a blank canvas upon which each person you’re trying to please can paint their own picture of who they want you to be. “You feel like no one truly knows you and that there are other dimensions of you that are unknown,” says Carbino, because you’re always putting on a show for others. Feeling as though you are alone on an island can cause someone to miss out on professional opportunities or trying new hobbies that could lead to new relationships because you’re so unused to not only being yourself but also being accepted for who that person is.

    READ MORE: Here’s How To Spot Secret Addictions And Tips To Break The Cycle

    How To Stop Being A People Pleaser

    Wait 24 hours before agreeing to or turning down a request.

    People pleasers are “yes” people by definition, even if they’re too busy or aren’t particularly interested in the task at hand. So, the next time someone asks for a favour, Cook suggests letting a full 24 hours pass before answering. Not only will you have plenty of time to sleep on the request, but you can also “evaluate whether you’re actually excited about helping out this individual, or just saying yes out of a sense of obligation,” she says.

    In the meantime, identify your own needs, wants and feelings.

    It can be especially challenging for people pleasers to cultivate genuine intimacy with others. “If we don’t share our truest needs, wants, or feelings with someone, then we aren’t being vulnerable or showing up in the relationship,” says Mazzola Wood. In fact, that’s just reinvigorating the pleasing cycle. If you can’t be vulnerable with yourself, you’ll struggle to share a deeper connection with others.

    Use the time you would’ve spent immediately responding to the aforementioned request by prioritising self-exploration through journaling. “Ask yourself what you really think or feel about a person or situation,” says Mazzola Wood. “Determine if a need isn’t being met or if a boundary is being violated and then decide what you need to do to fix that.”

    Start saying no.

    Now that you’ve given yourself time to assess your wants and needs, it’s time to put what you’ve learned about yourself into action. Although saying no may not come naturally to you, it’s one of the most empowering and invigorating ways to squash people-pleasing habits, says Carbino. If someone asks you to cat-sit for five days in a row while they’re on vacation, say something like: “I’d love to help you with that, but I have prior commitments on a few of those days. However, I can help on one of them.” By responding this way, you’re still offering to help, but are ultimately putting your own needs first, she says.

    Plus, saying no to menial tasks like that will show you you’re capable of setting boundaries, says Cook. “You also get to see how the other person reacts—were they trying to take advantage of your kindness, or do they respect your boundaries?” she adds.

    Set boundaries.

    This step is imperative for improving your mental health, the experts say. However, setting boundaries can be difficult for someone who is more concerned with keeping the peace and putting everyone else’s happiness above their own. “Speaking up for yourself is a muscle and it’s going to take some practice for that muscle to grow stronger and more confident,” says Mazzola Wood.

    First, change the way you speak to others by using “I” statements, such as “I feel,” says Mazzola Wood. This way, you’re able to prioritise and express yourself without coming off as accusatory or passive-aggressive. For instance, if your S.O.’s texting style isn’t conducive to your workflow, something along the lines of, “I love that you want to know how my day is going, but work is super busy. What if we have a FaceTime date after work tonight?” This way, you’re setting a clear boundary while also meeting both your and your partner’s needs.

    READ MORE: Why You Need Boundaries ASAP

    Test out being assertive in relationships where you feel secure.

    Being authoritative can sometimes feel overwhelming and foreign to people pleasers. Identify a relationship or two where you feel pretty secure—maybe your mom or childhood best friend—and try being assertive. In these more secure relationships, these people “respect our needs and limits,” Mazzola Wood says. “They want to meet us in the middle.”

    So, if your mom asks you to help her clean the house, run errands and set everything up for a family party, tell her you want to help but can only commit to running a few errands for her. This exercise will help you practice voicing your desires and feel more confident in other relationships where the other party may be quick to get defensive, says Carbino. Setting this simple boundary is a step towards being healthily assertive and minimise those people-pleasing tendencies.

    With the right tools and plenty of practice, you can start to refocus your people-pleasing habits on the person who really matters: yourself.

    This article written by Emily Weaver first appeared on Women’s Health US. More

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    7 luxurious properties with landmark addresses to stay in Bangkok

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 7 IMAGES
    There’s something irresistible about the city that keeps bringing us back to it.
    Having visited almost 6 times last year, this Thai capital lures every type of traveller from around the world with its high-rise hotels, lush parks and hidden gems that emulates an element of newness every time we visit.
    From boasting rooftop infinity pools to delectable Michelin-starred menus, Bangkok is only a six-hour trip from Dubai, and with four direct flights per day from Dubai International Airport, it’s a must-visit destination to visit, especially during long weekends.
    As a sprawling megacity, finding the right property to stay at can enhance your experience. With its unfathomable charm, we’re sure to go back and explore all the hidden gems that the city has to offer.
    Shopping and Markets
    One of the world’s largest outdoor markets Chatuchak Weekend Market offers everything from clothing to antiques. Asiatique The Riverfront is a night market with a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment along the river. Additionally,  modern shopping malls offering a variety of international and local brands.
    Dining and Nightlife
    Places like Sky Bar at Lebua or Vertigo and Moon Bar offer panoramic views of the city. Tourists can explore local street food at areas like Yaowarat (Chinatown) or Sukhumvit Soi 38. Finally, enjoy a meal on the Chao Phraya River while taking in the illuminated city skyline.
    Cultural Experiences
    Learn how to cook traditional Thai dishes with hands-on classes. All the fitness lovers can watch a live Muay Thai match at famous arenas like Rajadamnern Stadium. For a more traditional journey, experience cultural performances at venues like the Thailand Cultural Centre.
    Outdoor Activities
    Lumphini Park is green oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a relaxing stroll or paddle boating. While boat tours on Chao Phraya River explores the city from the water with various boat tours. Take a day trip to Ayutthaya where you can explore the ancient city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site, just a short drive from Bangkok.
    Museums and Galleries
    Bangkok National Museum offers an in-depth look at Thai history and art. The Jim Thompson House is a museum dedicated to the American businessman who helped revive the Thai silk industry. Finally, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC): A contemporary arts center showcasing local and international art.
    Additionally, Thailand has now introduced a visa waiver for Indian tourists granting a 30-day visa-free stay for leisure purposes to individuals holding Indian passports or travel documents, making it an easy destination to visit especially for families.
    So, depending on the kind of experience you’re looking to have, here we’ve listed some of the best hotels to stay in Bangkok.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Instagram @waldorfastoriabangkok More

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    9 premium chocolate shops to gift your loved ones in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 mins ago

    As we get ready to celebrate World Chocolate Day on July 7, 2024, we created a guide of the best gourmet chocolate shops in Dubai.
    World Chocolate Day is celebrated annually on July 7. This day is dedicated to the celebration of chocolate, one of the world’s favorite treats. The date is significant as it is believed to mark the introduction of chocolate to Europe in 1550.
    Gourmet chocolate brands focus on high-quality ingredients, artisanal craftsmanship, and often unique flavors. These premium chocolate brands are celebrated for their dedication to quality, innovation, and the art of chocolate-making, making them a favorite among chocolate connoisseurs.
    Overall, this day is a delightful occasion for chocolate lovers around the globe to come together and celebrate their love for this delicious treat. By sharing the joy of chocolate by gifting friends and family with chocolate assortments or gift boxes.
    From homegrown chocolate brands such as Ganache Chocolatier and Läderach to other delectable brands such as Läderach and Forrey & Galland, the options are endless. To top it off, the sophisticated packaging and personalised touch with a message adds an elegant touch to the present.
    You can even take the opportunity to enjoy their favorite chocolate bars, truffles, or other chocolate-based desserts.
    So next time you also need to gift someone special in your life, swipe through our gallery of bespoke chocolate havens in the heart of Dubai.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram

    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Pexels @anete-lusina More

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    These videos prove that Sheikh Mohammed is a doting grandfather

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    6 seconds ago

    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai is no doubt a doting grandfather.

    His son, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai always posts a series of videos and photos on social media.
    In another video shared by Sheikh Hamdan, the little one and Sheikh Mohammed are seen walking on a blue carpet in a caring way. He shared the video with the caption, “It is enough to hold his hand. May God protect you.”

    On Instagram with 16.4 million followers, the Crown Prince shared a a heartfelt video of Sheikh Mohammad with his grandchildren.
    His youngest grandson
    Born on February 25, 2023, Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum is the newest baby of the Dubai Royal family.Additionally, the Crown Prince of Dubai had given a glimpse of the little one through his Instagram in the past, it was the first time in May 2023, the royal baby’s face has been revealed. What makes it even more special? The three new images shared on social media are of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum adoring his youngest grandson. In the first picture, like a true doting grand father, HH Sheikh Mohammed is seen admiring Mohammed bin Hamdan. As for the rest of the two photos, he is candidly seen kissing the baby’s cheek with a wide smile in the last one.
    In London
    With the little ones all grown up, in August 2022, new photographs of Sheikh Hamdan’s father doting on his grandchildren, twins Rashid bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum and Shaikha bint Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum were seen.
    Swipe to see all the nurturing pictures throughout the years.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @faz3 More

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    Want to travel? 10 times Sheikh Hamdan has given us wanderlust inspiration

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    19 mins ago

    As summer is here and it’s time to travel, we’ve paid a tribute His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s interest in seeing the world by highlighting all his adventurous escapades.
    From mountainous regions to adrenaline-fuelled spots, Fazza’s travels around the world exude his passion for exploration and adventure.
    After digging through the archives, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the potential places to add to your bucket list from Sheikh Hamdan’s feed.
    United Kingdom

    Sheikh Hamdan has been seen in London quite a few times over the years and even recently made a visit with his twins, Rashid and Shaika, to the Godolphin stables. Having previously studied at Royal Military College, Sandhurst, Fazza has a strong connection to the UK and is often seen taking a trip to one of his favourite destinations.
    Tanzania

    Exploring both nature and immersing himself in the culture, Sheikh Hamdan’s picture-perfect safari trip to Tanzania looked beyond idyllic. While being surrounded by wildlife, the thrill-seeker shared a series of clips while jumping over a large pool of water. He also  explored the dense forests. The trip was indeed an adventurous one with all the outdoor activities the royal was seen trying out.
    Japan

    In 2019, Sheikh Hamdan made a visit east to Japan. Regarded as a highly-trained fitness enthusiast, the Dubai royal was seen posing with bronze sculptures of rugby player Michael Leitch and sumo wrestler Tochinoshin Tsuyoshi. He was also captured taking some classes and trying some delicious food. He’s undoubtedly ticked off a host of must-visit venues on his trip to Japan. From grazing through the enchanted streets or travelling by the high-speed bullet train to Tokyo, make a note of all the must-dos on your next trip.
    South Korea

    Nearly three years ago, in 2019, Sheikh Hamdan paid a visit to Seoul in South Korea. He posted a photo of himself in front of Gyeongbokgung Palace, one of the country’s must-visit attractions. Along with his Uncle Saeed, they visited historic spots in the city, as well as enjoyed matcha milkshakes, a very popular drink of choice in East Asia.
    Estonia

    In 2018, Sheikh Hamdan took his riding skills international, participating in a 160km endurance race in Estonia. During his travels in the Eastern European country, he cycled in Estonia along with his friend Saeed Jabber Al Harbi.
    Uzbekistan

    There’s no doubt, that Sheikh Hamdan is always seen posing in the great outdoors. His recent trip to Uzbekistan in November 2021 consisted of all the engaging activities. It included camping, falconry, exploring nature and also visiting some of the local residents in the country.
    USA

    Back in 2018, Dubai’s Crown Prince travelled to the USA visiting popular cities like Chicago and New York City.
    Denmark

    Spotted on this self-governing archipelago, which is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. The Faroe Islands is known for its picturesque coastal cliffs and gorgeous open skies. Seen taking a selfie with nature, this popular photo was all over social media.
    Canada

    Exploring the peaks of British Columbia, the royal was seen enjoying this snow-filled holiday on Canada’s ski slopes back in 2019. This stunning wintry escape is everything one looks for in the cooler months. Snowboarding, snow-cover buildings and spruce trees were some of the elements which truly made this holiday complete.
    Italy

    Seen posing in the popular frame shot with the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Sheikh Hamdan visited Italy in 2017, as the snap was captured with perfect precision. From relishing some delicious pasta to walking on the cobbled steps, this beautiful destination is one to add to your list too.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature image: Instagram @faz3 More

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    Loved watching “It Ends With Us”? 5 other Colleen Hoover books to read

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    22 seconds ago

    The recent film adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, It Ends With Us, brought the heart-wrenching story to life on the big screen.
    Starring Blake Lively as Lily Bloom, a strong-willed young woman, and Justin Baldoni as the charming neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid, the movie captured the essence of the book’s emotional depth and complexity. The film follows Lily as she navigates a tumultuous relationship with Ryle while grappling with the haunting memories of her abusive father. The re-emergence of her first love, Atlas, played by Brandon Sklenar, further complicates her life. The movie sensitively portrays the subject of domestic violence, while shedding a light on the internal struggles of the characters — making viewers empathize with their pain and triumphs.

    With its powerful performances and stunning visuals, It Ends With Us has resonated with audiences, leaving a lasting impact and sparking conversations about love, loss, and resilience.
     If you’re craving more of Hoover’s emotional storytelling, we’ve got you covered. Here are five other must-read books by this bestselling author:

    Verity

    A dark and suspenseful psychological thriller, Verity follows Lowen Ashleigh, a struggling writer hired to complete a bestselling author’s novel after she falls into a coma. When Lowen discovers a hidden manuscript containing shocking revelations, her life takes a dangerous turn.

    Reminders of Him

    This emotional rollercoaster follows Quinn as she rebuilds her life after a tragic accident that leaves her with memory loss. As she grapples with the past, she encounters Ledger, a man who holds the key to unlocking her memories.

    All Your Perfects

    This poignant story explores the complexities of marriage and the impact of hidden secrets. With raw honesty, Hoover delves into the lives of two seemingly perfect parents whose world is shattered by a devastating event.

    November 9

    A heartwarming tale of love and second chances, November 9 introduces Fallon and Ben, two people who meet on November 9th for five consecutive years. Their chance encounters spark a connection that could change their lives forever.

    Ugly Love

    This controversial romance explores the complexities of love and desire. Tate Collins needs a distraction, and she finds it in the form of a no-strings-attached relationship with her brother’s best friend, a mysterious and tattooed pilot.

    These five books offer a diverse range of emotions and storytelling styles, showcasing Colleen Hoover’s talent for creating unforgettable characters and captivating narratives. Whether you prefer heart-wrenching dramas, suspenseful thrillers, or passionate romances, there’s a Colleen Hoover book for every reader.

    Have you read any of these books? Share your favorite Colleen Hoover novel with us.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram: @itendswithusmovie More

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    Crown Prince Hussein and Princess Rajwa’s first family photo with baby Iman

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    41 mins ago

    Giving a glimpse of baby Princess Iman to the people for the first time, Crown Prince Hussein and Princess Rajwa walked out of the hospital with their daughter, smiling and waving at their well wishers.

    Congratulations are in order for the Jordanian Royal Family — Crown Prince Hussein and Princess Rajwa welcomed their first child, a baby girl named Princess Iman, on August 3, 2024.
    The Hashemite Royal Court shared a glimpse of Princess Iman, held by her father, the Crown Prince, while he performed the act of calling the adhan in her ear.
    All of Princess Rajwa’s pregnancy looks so far:
    Princess Rajwa looked radiant in a nude body con dress, standing tall next to her is the Crown Prince, dressed in a formal black shirt.

    Previous Pregnancy Portraits
    The Royal Court has unveiled new photos of Her Royal Highness Princess Rajwa Al Hussein, on the joyous occasion of her first wedding anniversary and her pregnancy in June 2024.
    Princess Rajwa’s Official Pregnancy Portraits

    Radiating elegance and grace, Princess Rajwa dazzled in a vibrant red dress by Alice & Olivia, complemented by exquisite gold jewelry that added a touch of regal splendour to her look. The photos beautifully captured the joyous moment in her life as she lovingly cradled her baby bump, symbolsing both a personal milestone and a bright future for the royal family. This special celebration highlights a year of love and anticipation for the Princess and the entire kingdom.
    The anticipation of royal parenthood grows as the Crown Prince of Hussein and Princess Rajwa Al Hussein of Jordan eagerly await the arrival of their first child this summer.
    First Outing Post Announcement
    For her first public appearance after the announcement captured on video, Princess Rajwa Al-Hussein was spotted wearing a jumpsuit from Seraphine and carrying a Bottega Veneta mini tote, showcasing her radiant baby bump as she left THE ABDEEN store in Amman.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram: @alhusseinjo, @arabianroyalagency More

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    In Pics: Danish brand Rotate’s flagship store plus, a cool-girl’s guide to Copenhagen

    Founders of cool-girl fashion label Rotate, Jeanette Madsen and Thora Valdimars, have a lot to celebrate this summer.
    Jeanette and Thora had a dreamy SS25 runway show during Copenhagen Fashion Week held at Royal’s Library Garden where the new collection showcases their free-spirited Scandinavian sensibilities merged with touches inspired from the 1920’s art deco era.

    Plus, the opening of it’s first-ever flagship store located in the heart of the brand’s home city.
    Designed by renowned interior architect Thibaut Allgayer, the space – adorned with touches of burgundy, wood, and chrome – offers Rotate’s community an impeccably chic and immersive environment where feminism meets blunt minimalism. These major milestones cement Rotate’s fashion credentials and puts Copenhagen on everyone’s radar.

    That said, if you’re already planning a trip to the Danish capital, Jeanette and Thora share their go-to hangouts to include in your itinerary, from cool neighbourhoods to chic hot spots.
    The thing you like most about living in Copenhagen:Jeanette & Thora (J&T): Copenhagen is a unique city because it feels energetic and cosmopolitan, but it is also small and approachable. It is a city that let’s you be yourself, it’s casual but also fun! And you can bike everywhere, which is a bonus.
    Where to check-in for a stylish and authentic stay:J&T: We adore the Sanders Hotel in central Copenhagen. It is a small boutique hotel, that even though it is very popular is never too crowded. It’s the perfect escape within the city!

    When someone visits the city, where do you take them first:J&T: There are so many places to visit in Copenhagen, and each borough of the city is different and full of interesting new things to do. But Copenhagen is really a city for foodies, it has some of the most incredible restaurants, so we would probably take a guest out for food first. The newly opened Bar Amore is a great spot to introduce someone to Copenhagen, it’s got a relaxed ambiance, great food and drinks and in a vibrant part of the city.

    The ultimate place to be during weekends:J&T: We recommend spending time on the weekend around the Vesterbro neighbourhood. On a sleepy weekend, we would stop by Pauseriet or Ipsen & Co. for pastries and coffee, before heading out to see the variety of independent shops that Vesterbro has to offer. We suggest making a stop at Værnedamsvej, to see the eclectic design shop, Dora, the beautifully curated bookshop Thiemers Magasin, the quirky vintage store Tootsie and picking up seasonal flowers from Blomster Bjarne.

    We love to spend our time sourcing unique vintage pieces, and one of the best vintage stores in the city has to be Jerome Vintage on Vesterbrogade. If you want to escape the city bustle, you can take a walk up to the picturesque Frederiksberg Have (gardens), where there is lovely lake and a viewing point of the entire city.
    Your favourite lunch/dinner place plus, dishes you would recommend to try:Thora: Esmee is always a favourite for special occasions (or just a little treat!) – the lobster pasta and the green vegetable salad are amazing.

    Jeanette: I love Locale 21, which is a relatively new restaurant that has a lovely street facing terrace so you can people-watch whilst you have dinner. They have a set menu where you get to try all the dishes, so you don’t have to pick just one!

    If vegan, a favourite vegan eatery in Copenhagen plus, dishes you need to order:J&T: Neither of us are vegan but there are definitely some great options in the city, most restaurants have a huge range of dishes that allow for vegan or vegetarian needs – 42Raw is a good option for quick lunch choices, whilst Baka D’Busk is a fully vegetarian option that is a lot of fun for dinner!
    What’s your go-to place for coffee/tea/matcha:Jeanette: I love the coffee at Beau Marche Cafe og Vins – it always comes served in a nice cup and it’s not too strong.
    Thora: I prefer to go to my local spot, Københavns Bageri, in Carsberg Byen.
    A once-in-a-lifetime experience to try:J&T: Copenhagen is a very special city, there are many experiences you can have here that are not available in other cities – especially in the summer. Copenhagen summer days are long, the sun rises early and sets late into the night, which is a beautiful thing to witness. The city is also located on the sea, which means that you can swim in the water throughout the city. And just being able to cycle anywhere and everywhere in a major city is pretty amazing!
    A go-to wellness spot:Thora: Amazing Space is a heavenly escape in the city, located in the stately D’Angleterre hotel, it is the perfect spot for all wellness needs.
    Jeanette: I recommend One Thirty Labs, their treatments are one of a kind, you can go there for Cryo, Compression Therapy, MMS, Infrared Sauna – the list goes on!
    A must-see for culture mavens:Thora: I think Copenhagen Contemporary is a must visit for people looking for culture. There is a modern art gallery in a giant warehouse located at Refshaleøen. They always have unique and exciting exhibitions.

    Jeanette: I recommend taking a trip outside of the city to visit Louisiana Museum, which is in Humlebæk (about 30 minutes out of Copenhagen on the train). It is a beautiful modern art gallery on the coast, and the views from the gallery are just as good as the art itself!

    Copenhagen’s best-kept secret that only locals know (and love!):J&T: Copenhagen has some of the best flea-markets we know! Throughout the summer, each weekend there are a huge number of markets throughout the city, where locals can buy and sell incredible secondhand clothing, interior design and furniture. It might not be very well known with tourists, but it is a staple for all Copenhageners!
    A favourite place to see style on the street:J&T: You can go pretty much anywhere in Copenhagen and people will be very well dressed! Each of the central Copenhagen boroughs has a different style though, Nørrebro style tends to be a little bit more casual and vintage-inspired, whilst Østerbro is more preppy and Copenhagen K is a melting pot of everything!
    The essentials you need to take with you:J&T: Copenhagen summer weather is known for being very unpredictable, so it’s essential to be prepared – always carry both an umbrella and SPF!
    Copenhagen style tends to be about mixing casual and dressy pieces, so we recommend bringing the fun pieces from your wardrobe that you have always wanted to wear. And a true Copenhagen summer look is not complete without a pair of Havaianas!
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