Raphael Stevens

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    The secret behind Bulgari Resort Dubai’s two Michelin restaurants

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    59 mins ago

    General Manager of Bulgari Resort & Residences Dubai, Pep Lozano shares how Bulgari Resort Dubai is now a destination driving travel in its own right, with two Michelin stars awarded to Il Ristorante and one Michelin star to Restaurant Hōseki.
    HŌSEKI BY CHEF SUGIYAMA

    Hōseki offers a unique Omakase experience with just nine seats – was this the plan from the outset?
    Yes, it was always the plan to have just nine seats. The reason behind this was to ensure we could tailor the exchange between the Chef and the guest, all while serving other guests at the same time. Nine seats allowed Chef to do so and serve guests with a spirit of wa, meaning harmony, without jeopardising any of the aspects that make for a perfect Omakase. Think of Omakase as chef inviting you to his home – everything is up to him. This once in a lifetime encounter needs to be perfect and as Chef Sugiyama and his staff put their hearts and souls into the service, limiting seating capacity ensures that the Chef does so.
    The restaurant has been awarded one Michelin star by The Michelin Guide for two consecutive years since 2022 and the 26th best restaurants on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Middle East & North Africa 2023. How does it feel to accomplish this title?
    I think that achieving this title is a proof of Chef Sugiyama’s gratitude to his guests, to Bulgari Resort Dubai, to his staff, suppliers, and Japanese producers who have been involved in the project since its inception. With or without this title, Sugiyama’s passion for cooking remains the same. Never satisfied with things as they are, Hōseki constantly tinkers, always searching through trial and error for a better version of itself.
    The fresh prime ingredients are imported directly from Japan. How does this further add to the quality of the food?
    Sugiyama goes to great lengths to ensure that everything at Hōseki is made in Japan, from the fish, vegetables and salt to the tableware. Fresh products are flown in from Japan several times a week – it’s just like visiting Tokyo’s Toyosu Market. Since Dubai is five hours behind Japan, when the restaurant closes at midnight, it’s 5AM in Japan. That’s just when the market is taking a breather. Dubai’s location is perfect. All the producers are personal contacts from his years working in Japan, people who work with him because they know and trust him. When the carefully selected ingredients are gathered from all over Japan, they are loaded onto containers headed for Hōseki. Chef Sugiyama wants his guests to have a piece of Japan, the moment they walk into the restaurant.

    Chef Sugiyama is a sixth-generation sushi master. Talk us through his career and background.
    Chef Sugiyama is the son of a sushi chef, owner of a long-established restaurant founded in 1865. His paternal and maternal grandparents all owned sushi restaurants. Yet as a young boy, he did not see himself continuing that family tradition. Both parents worked from morning to evening, and even on days off they always answered the phone if it rang. Not for a single day could work and home life be separated. Seeing at first hand the grinding hardship of running one’s own business, Sugiyama simply didn’t see becoming a sushi chef as an option. One day, Sugiyama had the opportunity to serve a customer a dish he’d prepared himself. When he saw the customer smile upon tasting his cooking, Sugiyama knew that this was what he wanted to do. Seeing the moment when a customer smiles on eating his food is the true thrill of counter service. It wasn’t long before Sugiyama reconnected with sushi. Later, after working at a series of sushi shops in Tokyo, Sugiyama had the good fortune of beginning his apprenticeship at Sushi Kanesaka. Then in 2017, when Bulgari Resort Dubai opened, Sugiyama was presented with an enthusiastic offer and set off for Dubai.
    What’s next for Hōseki by Chef Sugiyama?
    While the path to sushi might look very simple, it is a very complicated and difficult one. Chef Sugiyama considers that he’s still on the way to the best version of Hōseki. He aims to do better and work harder every day in order to provide a unique experience to his guests.
    IL RISTORANTE-NIKO ROMITO

    The restaurant echoes the elegant design of the original Bulgari Hotel Milano – what are the design elements that correlate to its original design?
    The design elements of Il Ristorante-Niko Romito’s are a celebration of Italian heritage. The décor is designed in a purely Italian – Roman Baroque – style. The restaurant showcases framed iconic Bulgari archive photographs and brand heritage images that recall over 130 years of Roman jewellery history. It is an intimate space centered around one ethos: the integration of Italian soul, coupled with Bulgari’s superior approach to luxury. You will find the same at Bulgari Hotel Milano’s Il Ristorante. For instance, the oval-shaped Bulgari Bar is found at both outposts and was inspired by the famous Fontana Della Barcaccia, just a stone’s throw away from Bulgari’s Roman boutique. It doesn’t get more Italian than that. The menu celebrates the rich heritage of history.
    What are the key stand out dishes?
    The key standout dishes are definitely some that represent the most historical dishes inItalian heritage. I would probably recommend starting with an Antipasto all’italiana, which offers a variety of Italian regional specialties, an interesting gastronomic tour from the North to the South of the country. Then I would go for one of our homemade pasta, like the Spaghetti e pomodoro, a modern interpretation of the classic pasta with a hard preparation behind it. It’s a dish that takes inspiration from Reale, Chef Niko’s three-starred restaurant in Abruzzo. Finally, I would recommend either a Cotoletta, to try our version of this very well know Italian classic. To end the dinner, the tiramisu or one of the seasonal creations like the buffalo stracciatella cheese ice cream, balsamic vinegar and wild blackberries.
    Many of the top-quality ingredients are flown in from Italy. How does this add to the experience?
    We try to always use Italian ingredients and when importing them is not possible we work with the finest local producers and choose the best products the country can offer. We always look for the best raw materials and treat them with the utmost respect. We really want our guests to experience a piece of Italy and while we strive to work with more local products, there are certain ingredients that just cannot be replaced yet. Dubai is very set up regarding the import of outstanding quality products, given the fact that the city is positioned close to Europe and the rest of the world. It’s really all about bringing Italian excellence to Dubai and we do that with all of the strong research that goes into every dish.

    The simple dishes add a series of complex transformation techniques – tell us more.
    Il Ristorante-Niko Romito is a beautiful international project designed for the Bulgari Hotel worldwide. A lot of what Chef Niko does is embodying a code of Italian cooking that starts from the classics and is reinterpreted in a contemporary manner, expressing the cultural importance, elegance and essence. Seasonality plays a big role in the conception of the menu, and of course the elements of each season are present in the menus at Il Ristorante-Niko Romito. New dishes are introduced to the menu each month, keeping in perfect harmony with the Italian seasons and linked to Italian traditions from the North to the South. Additionally, we don’t conceive a dish stating we want to do a dish of Mozzarella and Tomato, for example. We start working on giving the identity to the main ingredient we want to focus on. In this case, let’s work with the Mozzarella. Ingredients can be so versatile depending on the temperature, its environment, by a treatment. Once we understand the best way to bring this ingredient to life, we try to play around it.
    What’s next for Il Ristorante-Niko Romito?
    We will continue to provide excellence of food and service. We are now recognised in the MICHELIN Guide for a second time in a row, being one of the very few to have received this remarkable recognition of two stars. We will of course continue to strive to provide the best Italian experience there is and express the cultural importance of Italian cuisine. Our menu is a declaration of love to Italy and we will continue to express it through all our reinterpretations.
    July/August’s – The Summer Escape Issue with Tania Santos Silva – Download Now 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    Al Tayer Group collaborates with DAHC to prioritise prenatal care at Latifa Hospital

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    6 hours ago

    Al Tayer Group and Dubai Academic Health Corporation (DAHC) have forged a partnership to lend support to prenatal healthcare at the esteemed Centre for Prenatal Pediatrics, located within Latifa Hospital.
    “At Al Tayer Group, we stand firm in the belief that the betterment of our society as a whole is firmly rooted in our ability to nurture and care for members of our community. We are delighted to make this contribution to the Latifa Hospital, as a continuation of our commitment to support the noble efforts of the hospital, in providing exceptional facilities and care to women and children in the UAE,” stated Mr. Ahmed Al Tayer, Director of Al Tayer Group, talking about his endorsement for the project.
    Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation, which manages philanthropic endeavors of DAHC, shared a similar sentiment, saying, “Investing in the earliest stages of life holds the power to shape a brighter and healthier future. The Center for Prenatal Paediatrics signifies DAHC’s commitment to the well-being of expectant mothers, their children the future of health for generations to come. By bringing together technology, esteemed medical expertise, and compassionate care under one roof, this center does not only set the standards of excellence in prenatal healthcare but also ignites a beacon of hope for families across the region.”
    The core of Al Tayer Group’s ethos lies in their commitment to delivering superior quality and customer service. The organization fosters a corporate culture that values empowerment of employees, celebrates diversity, and encourages thought leadership—all firmly rooted in an ethical framework. Furthermore, the Group actively supports numerous charitable endeavors and passionately champions initiatives that provide children access to quality education and future opportunities.
    Meanwhile, the Dubai Academic Health Corporation (DAHC) is dedicated to advancing healthcare services in Dubai by establishing an innovative academic framework that seamlessly integrates healthcare, medical education, and cutting-edge scientific research. The Corporation is steadfast in its mission to elevate the efficiency, quality, and accessibility of healthcare services in Dubai, all in strict accordance with the highest global standards and best practices.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied by Al Tayer group  More

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    Morning Routine Hacks for Better Digestion Throughout the Entire Day

    Despite what #GutTok may have you believe, you don’t have to down olive oil shots, nosh on stewed apples, and graze on papaya seeds for the sake of digestive health and beating dreaded bloat. Sure, optimizing gut health is where it’s at, and hot girls have IBS, but the reality is there are no quick fixes or cure-alls to GI issues, even if said olive oil elixir worked for your favorite TikToker (I would know—I’ve had too many digestive drama episodes to count). Instead, start your morning off on the right foot with a few simple habits that can translate to a bright-eyed and bushy-tailed day with only one main objective: a happy gut. I asked dieticians and gastroenterologists for the top morning practices that are (actually) essential for boosting gut health and digestion.
     
    1. Drink water first thing
    Staying hydrated is vital for optimizing your skin, digestion, hormone balance, sleep quality, and mood, so why wouldn’t you kick off your morning with a tall glass of warm lemon water to jump-start the digestion process? “Drinking a glass of water first thing in the morning helps flush out toxins and supports morning bowel movements,” described Tanya Mezher, MS, RD, CDN, Lead Functional Practitioner at Malla.
    If you still need convincing, sip on this: “The most abundant molecule in the cells lining your digestive tract is water, accounting for 70 percent or more of total cell mass,” conveyed Dr. Lance Uradomo, M.D., M.P.H., an interventional gastroenterologist at City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center. “Water is crucial for those cells to function properly and for your gut to digest food easily.” So before you reach for your morning cup of joe or bite into your breakfast, wake up and hydrate your body with some H2O. For overachievers, the addition of lemon also helps fight indigestion, heartburn, bloating, constipation, and gas formation. 
     
    2. Prioritize breakfast and make it your largest meal of the day
    They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and when it comes to your gut, it’s true. “Because of the body’s circadian rhythm, we create less stomach acid later in the evening when the sun is down, so when we eat larger meals at night, we might not be able to optimally digest these meals,” explained Paulina Lee, MSHS, RD, LD, a gut health functional dietitian and founder of Savvy Stummy, LLC. “Fueling with a bigger breakfast can help us obtain nutrients optimally when our digestion is more awake in the mornings.”
    Don’t let a hectic schedule or tough work deadline make you skip breakfast, and plan ahead so it’s an afterthought or something you grab on the go. Take time to sit down and eat mindfully, and turn off social media, emails, and TV to eat fully present. “Chewing each bite well without distractions or multi-tasking can help you relax and digest better by setting you into a more ‘rest and digest’ phase,” Lee affirmed. 
     
    3. Eat foods rich in fiber and fermented foods
    Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that the body can’t digest, so it passes through the body undigested and makes its way to the gut, promoting regularity and relieving GI issues. “Fiber, especially prebiotic fibers, are fuel for a healthy gut microbiome,” Lee explained. “These fibers are digested by beneficial gut bacteria so they can make healthful by-products like short-chain fatty acids that support the gut barrier, decrease inflammation, manage the pH of the gut, and keep oxidative stress at bay.” Easy ways to sneak in extra fiber? Sprinkle your yogurt with flaxseeds or chia seeds, top your oatmeal with berries, use whole grain bread for your avocado toast, or whip up a veggie omelet or scramble.
    In addition to fiber, fermented foods are crucial for gut health. “Fermented foods contain and feed healthful probiotics, which are beneficial to healthy digestion,” Dr. Uradomo said. But that’s not all probiotics bring to the table. “Probiotics may decrease gut-associated inflammation, which contributes to poor immunity and other metabolic imbalances,” Lee elaborated. Just how much of this type of superfood do we need? Lee recommended at least 1-2 tablespoons of fermented foods daily. Whether you blend coconut yogurt or kefir into your morning smoothie or incorporate sauerkraut or kimchi into your breakfast burrito, you’ll be doing your gut a major solid.
     
    4. Sip on ginger tea
    Ginger does more than deliver its signature spicy zest to savory dishes and baked goods. Consider it your gut’s BFF thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can support digestion and combat bloat by stimulating saliva and stomach acid production. “Because ginger has anti-inflammatory and gastro-protective properties, it may relieve digestion, bloating, and inflammation,” Lee echoed. “In Traditional Chinese Medicine, ginger is often used for indigestion, and there’s additional research to show it improves feelings of nausea.”
    But the plant’s good-for-you qualities don’t stop there. “Ginger root contains gingerol, a natural compound that assists with gastrointestinal motility–the contractions and relaxations of muscles of the GI tract and the movement of ingested food and liquid through the gut,” Dr. Uradomo pointed out. Plus, it’s an easy step to add to your morning routine, as preparing ginger tea is as easy as slicing ginger and adding hot water.

    5. Get moving
    Lee said it best: “Get moving to get ‘things’ moving in your gut.” It turns out hot girl walks are more than just a means to get your steps in. “Morning walks or yoga can help contract muscles, which keeps things moving in your digestive tract,” Lee continued. “These activities may also help improve your healthy gut microbiome and diversity. Yoga stretches, like side bending, downward dog, and standing forward bend, involve twisting and bending that massages the digestive tract to relax the gut and stimulate digestive enzymes.”
    Let go of any preconceived notions that your movement of choice needs to be an hour long or intense to get the most out of it. In fact, gentle forms of exercise in the AM are *chef’s kiss* since easing into your morning should be your MO for promoting gut health. “Even if it is just a 10-minute walk or an at-home workout, any form of movement can help with digestion,” Dr. Uradomo expressed. “Exercise increases blood flow to the muscles in the digestive system and helps to move food through the digestive tract.”
    Recent studies have found that there’s a link between the gut microbiome and exercise, according to Mezher. “Exercise can change the composition of the gut biome, increase the number of beneficial bacteria, and reduce the number of harmful bacteria.” She suggested taking your workout outside to enhance your gut health along with your vitamin D intake and circadian rhythm for some added benefits. 
     
    6. Relax the nervous system

    A chaotic morning that calls for rushing to get ready and out the door can wreak havoc on your stress levels, which can also negatively affect digestion and gut health. “When our bodies aren’t in a state of flight-or-fight, AKA sympathetic pathways, we are able to focus more energy and time into absorbing and digesting nutrients optimally,” Lee explained.
    No matter what practice relaxes you or how much time you have in the morning, you can make relaxation a priority. It can be as simple as taking 3-4 deep breaths to set the tone for digesting (and conquering your day) before calmly getting out of bed. “Deep breathing and meditation in the morning help to set your day for parasympathetic pathways that aid in resting and digesting,” Lee explained. You can also try meditation, journaling, getting outside, or a quick breathwork session (Mezher cited a recent study that found breathwork improved digestion and increased the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut).

    Probiotics Get All the Buzz, but This Unsung Hero May Be More Effective for Gut Health More

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    3 luxe beach club takeovers to add to your summer holiday itinerary

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    7 mins ago

    Let the battle of the beach clubs commence!
    The biggest names in luxury fashion continue to take over beach clubs around the world this summer season. A fusion of luxury and leisure, these iconic names both in the fashion and hospitality industries are redefining summer indulgence.
    Here, Emirates Woman rounds up the places to see and be seen in, with each takeover presenting an opportunity to relax and explore the brands heritage through an unparalleled experience.
    Louis Vuitton x Mandarin Oriental Bodrum

    Head to the Turkish Riviera to discover where the epitome of luxury style meets the art of relaxation.
    For the launch of its new city guide to Bodrum, Louis Vuitton will be occupying Mandarin Oriental’s Blue Beach Club & Bar. Re-designed and meticulously curated for the summer with signature patterns and brand detailing in a natural color palette.
    Browse through the ready-to-wear collections or journey to seaside bliss and relax on sun loungers with an exceptional view of Bodrum’s bay.
    Missoni x Nikki Beach Costa Smeralda

    In Porto Cervo, Sardinia, Nikki Beach Costa Smeralda becomes the canvas for Missoni Resort Club to express the Italian brand’s vision via an exclusive collaboration.
    A barefoot luxury lifestyle experience like no other, discerning guests can immerse in the breathtaking beauty of Sardinia’s coastline while relaxing on customised sunbeds, umbrellas and other decorative items adorned with Missoni’s signature prints showcased in a mesmerising colour palette of deep blue and ocean turquoise and vivid pops of emerald green.
    Dior x One&Only Desaru Coast
    Image by Eric Chow
    For the ultimate seaside showcase, venture out on the tropical shores of Desaru Coast, where Dior takes over the sleek Ember Beach Club in One&Only Malaysia.
    With an air of exclusivity and sophistication, the luxury French fashion house transformed the idyllic oasis with an all-new pop-up store and café for the Dioriviera capsule collection launch.
    Here, guests can bask in the sun-dappled cabanas, loungers, and pools adorned in the brand’s lustrous reimagined prints in a soft colour palette of pink, grey, cream, and blue. Or indulge at Dior Café which offers Mediterranean-inspired flavors that pay homage to Malaysia’s fresh local produce with a French twist, complemented with the warm service for which One&Only is known for.
    For more information and reservations, visit oneandonlyresorts.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    In Pics: Inside Selena Gomez’s star-studded 31st birthday party

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 8 IMAGES
    Selena Gomez, celebrated her 31st birthday in style on Friday evening with a surprise bash at an exclusive residence in Malibu.
    The event was meticulously planned by her closest friends, who made sure to incorporate personal touches that truly reflected the actor’s essence.
    The singer looked stunning in a red leather embellished strapless mini dress from the renowned Bottega Veneta, complemented by Magda Butryum sandals styled by Dominic J. West.
    The night was filled with memorable moments, including a lively DJ set by Diplo, a photo booth adorned with an SG monogram, and an endless supply of customised Shake Shack burgers (the beauty entrepreneur’s favourite).

    A constellation of entertainment industry darlings and close friends to the Rare Beauty moghul graced the occasion. The guest list boasted names like Christina Aguilera, Paris Hilton, Rosalia, Karol G, Saweetie, Tiffany Haddish, Pia Mia, Sabrina Claudio, Benny Blanco, YG, Tyga, and many more.
    But the birthday surprises didn’t conclude there. On her Instagram Story, Selena revealed an additional delightful treat – a private screening of the new Barbie movie.

    Her friends and younger sister donned adorable Barbie-themed pink outfits while enjoying the show from comfortable-looking chairs. Following the screening, the group gathered for an intimate dinner, captured in Instagram photos that showcased them in their pink-clad glory, surrounded by a delectable spread of food and drinks.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @selenagomez  More

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    Fatima Sajwani achieves a historic feat as the First Emirati Woman to Conquer Mont Blanc

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    5 mins ago

    On 16 July 2023, Fatima Sajwani, an accomplished mountaineer from the UAE, etched her name in history as the first Emirati woman to conquer the summit of Mont Blanc.
    This daring and historic adventure began on 13 July 2023, with Fatima taking approximately four days to reach the peak of the Alps’ highest mountain.
    The successful summit of Mont Blanc marks yet another milestone in Fatima’s remarkable climbing career. Having already set significant records for her country in the world of mountaineering, she earned the distinction last year of becoming the first Emirati to ascend Africa’s third-highest and most treacherous summit, Margherita Peak.
    Fatima’s journey to the pinnacle of Mont Blanc involved navigating the challenging Aiguille du Goûter Route, which presented icy terrains and demanding scrambling and climbing. After reaching the Goûter Hut at an altitude of 3835m, she had to endure a two-day wait for improved weather conditions before continuing her ascent towards the summit. The final push up through the Dome du Goûter and the Vallot Hut ultimately led Fatima to conquer the summit of Mont Blanc.

    Talking about her significant achievement, she said “I am proud to continue the legacy of other great female Emirati sportswomen across diverse fields who have paved the way for me. I am grateful to be able to represent the UAE in mountaineering, a sport in which Middle Eastern athletes are usually underrepresented. My motivation to set new records for my country is fueled by my raise my nation’s flag over new peaks and to inspire young Emiratis, especially women, to embrace extreme sports.”
    The successful completion of this ambitious ascent is a testament to months of intensive training in the UAE and the meticulous execution of a carefully planned expedition, coupled with favorable weather conditions. Notably, a previous attempt by Fatima to summit Mont Blanc a year ago was interrupted due to sudden and adverse weather changes.
    Despite the exhaustion, Fatima Sajwani’s spirits remain high, and she is already setting her sights on her next challenge. Upon returning to the UAE, her plans include rigorous training for Ama Dablam in Nepal, a Himalayan peak renowned for its steep pitches and sharp ridges. With her indomitable spirit and determination, Fatima continues to push the boundaries of mountaineering and inspire others to pursue their dreams.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    I Tried Pole Dancing Classes for 3 Weeks and My Confidence Skyrocketed

    As a ClassPass addict, one of the main ways I maintain my motivation to work out is by constantly switching up the type of exercise I’m doing. Pilates? Love it. Bootcamp? Give me a second to caffeinate first, and then I’m there. Spin? Ready to clip in. Lifting? A tried-and-true classic. However, there are some types of physical activity that even I haven’t given a shot, and one of those is the controversial pole dancing. So for three weeks, I consistently took (beginner level!) pole classes, recorded my thoughts, and developed some major arm gains (and confidence) in the process.

    Why take a pole fitness class in the first place?
    It all started at Denver Pride, when a local pole studio had a pop-up where anyone who walked by could have a chance to spin on the pole. Guided by an instructor, I tried out what I later learned to be a “ballerina spin,” and found myself thinking a few things: first, that was way more physically challenging than I thought it would be, and second, that was SO fun. I was hooked, and I signed up for a beginner class right then and there.

    But beyond a physical challenge and a fun new workout, I found myself drawn to the idea of a “sexy workout” for a specific reason. As a 22-year-old woman, it can be hard to feel like my sexuality is something that exists entirely for me; it’s a difficult thing to take ownership of when there are social pressures to “be sexy” for partners and in terms of my general physical experience.
    On the other end of the spectrum, exercise is something I have no problem doing just for me. I’ve worked hard to get to the point where I work out to feel myself getting stronger and for my own physical and mental health, and not for outside perceptions. By combining sexiness with physical activity in a pole dancing workout, I hoped to feel a little bit more like my sexuality was something that exists for myself and no one else.

    My First Impressions
    Before my first pole class, I felt some nerves; luckily, I was headed to a first-impression class offered specifically for beginners, so I wasn’t the only one with no background experience. The class started with pretty standard upper-body warm-ups, like head rolls, arm circles, and a push-up variation commonly known as the “sexy push-up.” We learned how to walk around the pole—always on tip-toes—and the dynamics of a spin. For the final minute of the class, the instructor turned down the lights and allowed us to practice however we liked with no instruction for the duration of the song, giving me hardcore flashbacks to free dance at the end of ballet classes in my childhood.
    The following five pole classes I took over the next few weeks followed a similar structure: warm-ups and conditioning, floor work that was always physically challenging and engaged my core, learning the dynamics of a spin on the pole, and a free dance portion. Though I took a different instructor each time, I never felt judged when I asked for help with choreography. In some crowded classes, I took turns learning spins on the pole with a partner; in other less crowded classes, I received more hands-on instruction.

    Pole Fitness as a Workout

    If you’re looking for a fantastic shoulder and back workout, all I have to say is that you are definitely missing out on the physical benefits of pole dancing. At the risk of stating the obvious, it takes quite a bit of upper body strength to stabilize and hold yourself up on a vertical pole as you spin around it—who knew?! After taking my first class, my shoulders were super sore, and once I became more skilled at the simultaneous push-and-pull motion that comes from having both hands on the pole, I felt a ton of engagement in my back. At the end of the three weeks, I can tell that my upper body has gotten much stronger.
    Beyond the upper body workout that is pole dancing, I found myself challenged by the constant relevé that the activity requires: there’s a reason pole dancers usually wear heels, and it’s not for aesthetics. The act itself requires being on your tip-toes constantly, so heels eliminate a bit of calf strain. Like most dance classes, pole dancing also pushes flexibility and posture, two elements of exercise that I rarely find myself focusing on in more traditional workout classes.

    How Pole Fitness Changed My Confidence and Self-Perception
    To be completely honest, there were a few moments during my 3-week pole dancing journey when I felt self-conscious, confused, or even downright uncomfortable. Pushing myself to connect with a simultaneously creative, sexualized, and strong version of myself in a room full of strangers and an instructor was hard, and required a level of vulnerability I was pretty unfamiliar with.
    However, in spite of the physical and mental challenge of pole dancing itself, I’ve never had so much fun in a relatively low-impact workout class. When I allowed myself to get out of my head and into my body when learning and practicing the different spins, I found myself having a straight-up great time. The music was always on point, the community of the studio I attended felt tight-knit and supportive, and the thrill of perfecting a new skill with each class was incredibly refreshing.
    When it comes to trying out a “sexy workout,” I can’t recommend it enough—though it tested my confidence, pole dancing pushed me to connect with a physically creative side of myself. The instructors encouraged us to record videos of ourselves during each free dance, and looking back at those videos of myself dancing is so fun. Not only do they allow me to see how much I’ve progressed in terms of skill, but rewatching those videos makes me feel totally hot. And the best part? They’re just for me.

    I Tried the 3-2-8 Method for 2 Months
    Here’s Why I’m Telling Everyone To Do It Too More

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    Fight The Side Effects Of Antibiotics And Keep Your Gut In Check With Probiotics: A Winning Combination

    Antibiotics can be lifesaving medications when it comes to treating bacterial infections, but they can also have side effects, such as diarrhoea and an upset stomach, by disrupting the natural balance of bacteria in your gut.1

    Antibiotics are not able to distinguish between good and bad bacteria, so they can kill off the “friendly” bacteria along with the harmful bacteria.2 For example, antibiotics may kill the beneficial bacteria in our digestive system that help us break down food and absorb nutrients.3

    Reuterina® acute4 is a probiotic that can help fight the side effects of antibiotics and keep your gut in check. It contains Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, a specific strain of bacteria that is clinically proven and can help prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhoea and improve gut health.

    Reuterina acute® has been clinically validated, with beneficial effects in a variety of health conditions including:

    Reducing diarrhoea within 24 hours and restores microbial balance

    Effectively treating diarrhoea by reducing the symptoms and duration of illness

    Helping to significantly reduce diarrhoea in adults with acute gastroenteritis

    Helping reduce lactose intolerance-related side effects

    Protecting and supporting gut flora to strengthen immunity

    Reuterina® acute

    Reuterina® acute helps restore and maintain a healthy balance of gut flora during and after a course of antibiotics.

    Taking Reuterina® acute alongside antibiotics can help you feel better and avoid the uncomfortable side effects of antibiotics.

    The Reuterina® family of probiotics are available from pharmacies nationwide. For more information, visit: reuterina.co.za and join the conversations on Instagram and Facebook.

    Travel in style with an exclusive giveaway!

    Valued at R1000, this giveaway for eight lucky winners is great for savvy travellers and on-the-go parents! Get ready for your next adventure with this fantastic travel hamper from Reuterina®!

    To enter the competition, keep an eye out on the Women’s Health social media pages. Winners announced Monday, 24 July 2023.

    References:

    National Library of Medicine. Update on the adverse effects of antimicrobial therapies in community practice. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7491661/. Last accessed April 2023.

    Learn Genetics. What is an Antibiotic? Available at: https://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/microbiome/antibiotics. Last accessed April 2023. 

    National Library of Medicine. Antibiotics as Major Disruptors of Gut Microbiota. Available at:      https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7732679/. Last accessed April 2023. 

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