Raphael Stevens

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    in health and weelbeing

    Margot Robbie Dropped Her Latest Wellness Routine in a New Interview

    It’s a Barbie world and we’re just living in it, or at least we can pretend to live out our childhood dreams thanks to Margot Robbie (who didn’t want to live in Barbie’s Dreamhouse?!). ICYMI, Robbie is bringing the iconic Mattel doll to life in the much-anticipated Barbie movie. As Barbie, she can fly down the stairs and walk on water, but behind the plastic-fantastic, jet-setting lifestyle, pink ‘fits, and glam, the actress keeps it real–albeit rigorous at times–with her IRL wellness routine. Keep reading for the lowdown on Margot Robbie’s workout and nutrition preferences. Hint: Her sweat sessions include Hot Skatin’ Barbie energy (think: neon rollerblades, leotard, bike shorts, visor, protective gear, and all). 
    Before we dive in, remember that a celebrity’s wellness routine is likely very different from any of ours; they have money and resources to make a healthy lifestyle feel easier, and pressures such as looking a certain way for a movie role. But celebrity or not, all of our wellness routines should look different because every body is different, and “healthy” means something different to everyone. Take anything that interests or inspires you from this A-List movie star’s wellness routine, and leave whatever doesn’t.

    Her Fitness Routine
    Barbie’s famous gams aren’t going to tone themselves—Robbie put in the (hard) work to transform into the life-size figurine, and the movie’s trailers and BTS pics are proof. Her workout MO? Rollerblading. That’s right, it’s not just on screen that Robbie takes to the streets in her skates. According to her interview with Vogue, she likes to lace up even i her real life (she “hates to break”–she’s that hardcore). ICYWW, she took up rollerskating after her ice-skating stint as Tonya Harding in I, Tonya. To prove my point, she even conducted her Vogue interview while rollerblading. Before you knock the nostalgic activity, consider this: Based on a study by the University of Massachusetts, rollerskating causes less than 50% of the impact shock to your joints than running does, making it a low-impact cardio workout you don’t want to sleep on.
    Aside from skating, Robbie doesn’t shy away from weights, namely intense leg and butt workouts (think: back squats, front squats, leg presses, and deadlifts). She further proves she’s a badass by finishing off her weight-lifting sessions with a jog, jumping rope, jump squats, and mountain climbers. Then, there are her upper body and core workouts that include military presses, push-ups, planks-to-push-ups, pull-ups, and chest presses. As demanding as her workout routine is, Robbie gives her body breaks by alternating between gym and lighter “activity” days such as Pilates, and ballet.  

    Nutrition
    Robbie’s idea of balance carries into how she nourishes her body, making sure there’s room for all foods–including indulgences–in her diet. She admittedly “can’t just have a salad every day and half a glass of wine every second day.” To drive the point home, Robbie continued her conversation with Vogue between bites of avocado toast, grilled Halloumi cheese, and Australian-​​style bacon (extra crispy), and they hit up her favorite ice cream shop, Salt & Straw, post-rollerblading. If you can’t tell already, she has a sweet tooth and knows it’s OK to indulge it. “Chocolate, waffles, and fries are the main food groups that make up my diet,” she expressed to Emirates Woman.
    However, a typical day of eating when she’s preparing for a role might look like porridge and a green smoothie for breakfast, tuna steak and sweet potato for lunch, and lemon chicken and brown rice for dinner. In her everyday, Robbie has a major sweet tooth and knows foods you love are a part of a balanced diet, but she prioritizes protein-rich meals when prepping for roles like Barbe.

    Inside Halle Bailey’s Fitness Routine and Nutrition Plan
    It’s Motivating AF More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    Insider tips from concierge teams on how to maximise your summer vacation

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    19 mins ago

    We speak to some of the best concierge teams who go above and beyond to share insider tips on how to maximise your summer vacation.

    The Mark – New York, USA
    Our favourite quotes are “the answer is yes, what is your question” and “my only limitation is your imagination” which means that there are very few things that we DO NOT do for our guests at The Mark. From creating a Phantom of the Opera experience in our Penthouse all with original cast members to delivering a special breed of puppy from New York to Qatar – we have done it all!
    INSIDER TIP
    We personally love creating magical summer moments for our guests. From sailing along the Hudson River on the Mark Sailboat with delicious bites by Caviar Kaspia to taking a spin around Manhattan on our new Mercedes Benz e-bikes, we offer unique ways for our guests to experience this incredible city. For those travelling with their family, a picnic prepared from The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges which can be enjoyed in Central Park is a lovely afternoon activity – let The Mark Pedicab take you there! Our second tip is to explore the many outdoor summer concerts and stage performances at our neighboring Central Park. Few things are as enchanting as taking in a Shakespearean play or listening to New York Philharmonic perform outdoors on a warm summer evening.
    For more information, visit themarkhotel.com

    One&Only Reethi Rah – Maldives
    Our Guest Services team at One&Only Reethi Rah curates a fully personalized itinerary based on our guestsʼ preferences. This includes a range of intimate events such as private dining in iconic locations around the resort, as well as themed parties and celebrations for our guests and their loved ones or a bespoke prearrival experience.
    INSIDER TIP
    Get to know our local Maldivian colleagues! They are always eager to share stories about their culture, islands, and experiences; they are exclusive to your time here in the Maldives. Whenever possible, book your experiences ahead of time and consider reaching out directly to the resort. Take full advantage of our expertise so we can offer experiences and activities that you hadnʼt even thought of.
    For more information, visit oneandonlyresorts.com

    Anantara The Palm – Dubai, UAE
    The role of our concierge team involves performing a variety of personalised tasks and services aimed at delighting the hotel’s guests. In essence, we serve as the public face and a dependable resource for guests. As a seasoned concierge well-versed in local hidden treasures, we create tailored itineraries for guests.
    INSIDER TIP
    A customised city tour can be facilitated based on guest preferences. These could include a unique tour to the Museum of the Future, or should guests wish to explore the older parts of Dubai, the historic district of Al Bastakiya comes highly recommended or a walking tour to the Gold and Spice markets.
    For more information, visit anantara.com

    The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert – Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
    In addition to organising dinner reservations and providing recommendations that often involve private dinners amongst the dunes or atop of Al Wadi Tower accompanied by a transfer on a camel or via the 1952 vintage Land Rover to create a unique memorable experience, we also organize various exciting activities throughout the hotel from nature drives, wildlife adventures, to relaxing wellness treatments.
    INSIDER TIP
    Immerse yourself in unique nighttime adventures by participating in guided tours and nature walks, specifically designed to unveil the mesmerizing aspects of Ras Al Khaimah after dark. Engage in stargazing sessions, where you can admire the enchanting constellations while learning about the ancient navigation techniques employed by local Bedouins.
    For more information, visit ritzcarlton.com
    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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    Looking for a wellness getaway? Visit this holistic resort for an inside-out cleanse

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    RAKxa shares how this wellness experience has put Thailand on the wellness map with its holistic treatments and deep detox focus.
    Talk us through the bespoke wellness consultation process you’ve designed for guests.
    Guests can embark on a journey with a three-step assessment that includes a health and wellness consultation session, a functional fitness assessment at RAKxa GAYA, and an in-depth doctor consultation at the VitalLife Scientific Wellness Centre and Traditional Wellness at RAKxa JAI. We place emphasis on addressing the entirety of an individualʼs health by comprehensively examining their medical history to gain a complete understanding of the current health status. Upon completion of the initial consultation, a tailored programme is designed to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident incorporating changes into your daily life. The treatment plan will evolve over time as you progresson your wellness journey. Next, we move onto the Functional Fitness Assessment(FFA) to analyze your daily essential functional movement including strength, mobility, balance, and coordination to guide you to the right treatments, classes, and exercises that suit you best while with us and in your everyday life back home. Then guests will have the chance to consult with an anti-ageing doctor to review all your conditions. Additionally, at the VitalLife Scientific Wellness Centre at RAKxa Wellness, a full repertoire of laboratory tests including complete blood test, hormone panel screening, food intolerance test, micronutrient test, and urine metal test is provided along with online consultation with nutritionists. Our anti-ageing doctors will work collaboratively with the other RAKxa’s traditional therapists with years of experience in practising Ayurveda, Traditional Thai medicine, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, to create a fully integrative personalised wellness programme.

    What was the inspiration behind launching RAKxa, the luxury wellness destination?
    We understand that everyone’s health journey is unique and ever-changing. When it comes to individual health, a ‘one size fits all’ treatment will not be as effective as a personalised one where each individual’s health issues are uniquely treated. We are dedicated to being your trusty health guide, offering valuable support to those navigating the complexities of the healthcare system. We are dedicated to healing, sustaining, and preventing – a lasting wellness journey tailored to your unique needs. We embrace an integrative approach as a whole to wellbeing through a combination of health care, therapies, treatments, and wisdom of traditional and modern medicine, along with, nutrition, rest, and taking advantage of their unique healing benefits that complement one another, then integrate them into a healing system or what we call a programme, to deliver synergistic and complementary wellness results, with a more pleasant healing experience. Our brand philosophy states, ‘Health is Wealth’ – Everyone wishes to guard and cherish their health as much as their wealth.
    “We believe that a balance of opposing forces, known as Yin and Yang, is crucial for both the body’s optimal functioning and overall health.”

    The villas are designed to encourage deep rest and reflection. How does the design and layout ensure utmost relaxation?
    The layout and function of the villas are ergonomically designed by doctors to create a safe and comfortable resting space for everyone. The bed’s height is set to no higher than 70cm for comfort, especially for elderly guests or those with back pain and injuries. Natural materials such as hypoallergenic cotton silk bedsheets are chosen, with a choice of six pillow types for our guests to choose from (contour massage, cervical opedic, classic natural latex, buckwheat, companion, and memory foam), all are made from natural materials. The organic selection of amenities made from high-quality natural materials designed by Thai local brands embraces the idea of giving back to the local community. Our rooms are decorated with earthy tones, creating a calm and serene atmosphere. Soft fabrics and blackout curtains are installed throughout the villas so that our guests can enjoy a peaceful and undisturbed night’s rest.
    The RAKxa’s wellness cuisine is centered on ingredients. How does the retreat focus on restoring balance through food?
    We believe that good food is the best medicine. Our food philosophy is rooted in the idea that what we eat can profoundly impact our overall health and wellness. By understanding each of our guest’s unique dietary needs, conditions, and preferences, we could offer a personalised healthy and balanced dietary menu. At the beginning of your programme – our chefs and nutritionists collaborate with doctors and use dietary lab test results to curate personalised menus that meet individual health goals, from optimising gut health for efficient nutrient absorption to striving to minimise and eventually eliminate harmful toxins accumulated in the body. Also, we work with our traditional medicine doctors – we believe that a balance of opposing forces, known as Yin and Yang, is crucial for both the body’s optimal functioning and overall health.

    Science and tradition come together at RAKxa. How are the traditional treatments combined with energy healing practices?
    Energy Medicine at RAKxa Integrative Wellness is a healing practice that is based on the perpetual transmutation of vibrational energy and has been around for centuries. The techniques are cultivated in various cultures and traditions, and our talented guru’s conduct with grace and skill. At RAKxa, we offer unique examples of this methodology from all corners of the world: singing bowls from ancient Tibet, chakra and pranic healing, part of ancient Ayurveda methodology, healing with crystals which date back to Ancient Egypt and Ancient Greece, and Reiki, which originates from Japan. The transformative effects of energy healing help to unleash joy and peace by manipulating brainwaves, enhancing individuals’ chemistry and hormone levels, removing energy stagnation and improving your overall wellbeing. Energy healing can be integrated and treated alongside other medical services, whether it is exercises, physical therapies, or administering medical care such as intravenous vitamin (IV) infusions, because we want everyone to be in good health both inside and out and, importantly, in mind and spirit.

    The property’s medical gym uses technology, functional medicine and the science of movement – what are some of the bespoke exercise routines available?
    Our medical gym at RAKxa Gaya uses a diagnostic approach, drawing upon technology, physiotherapy, sports medicine, and the science of movement to create a personalised exercise. RAKxa’s team of physiotherapists and sports scientist conduct a comprehensive assessment of guests’ body posture, stability, endurance, strength, coordination and balance, as well as everyday movement using state-of-the-art equipment and world-class Olympic Grade Standard machines such as walk-pattern analysis with Gait Analysis, Functional Assessment with Huber, and Neuromuscular reactivation using Redcord Muscle Function Restoration with Red Cord Exercise. Following a thorough assessment, the results are then interpreted by a staff of movement specialists, physiotherapists, and wellness trainers who create custom-made training plans that blend results-oriented, corrective exercises,that are both modern and traditional. Your training programme will be specifically tailored to your conditionsand abilities, as well as your personal wellness goals. Head to Toe Stretch, which is a one-on-one session provided by medical gym staff, is recommended. This passive stretch helps you gently loosen up your physical tension, reduce lactic acid build-up, and improve your range of motion and flexibility.
    The VitalLife provides hyper-personalised treatments – what’s the science behind this technology?
    Our anti-ageing medicine is an array of modern technologies from advanced diagnostic equipment to innovative therapeutic interventions that create hyper-personalised treatments designed to restore and optimise guests’ health and longevity. We strive to provide guests with the highest level of medical standards and care, ensuring they receive the most advanced and tailored anti-ageing solutions in a comfortable and welcoming environment. The treatment sessions are based in the Medical Wellness Clinic under the supervision of medical professionals from VitalLife.
    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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    5 things Zayn Malik opened up about in his first public interview after six years

    Emirates Man

    by Ruman Baig
    4 hours ago

    Pakistani-British singer, Zayn Malik, is known for being notoriously private. His first public appearance in six years allowed his fans to get a glimpse of the man beneath the mystery.
    At all 17, Zayn Malik became an overnight sensation with four other British boys when One Direction was born. Thanks to Simon Cowell, The X Factor judge of the time who spotted these talented boys and clubbed them together in a band.

    After tasting the height of success and fame at an early age, Zayn was the first to venture out alone. His journey as a solo artist hasn’t been like that of a regular pop star — the Pillow Talk singer, despite the success he found in his solo stint, decided to step away from the limelight when it cost his mental health.

    In a modern world, where fame is fleeting and icons are always changing, it is refreshing to see an artist who is purely around for the love of the art. Recently, the 30-year-old singer appeared as a guest on Alex Cooper’s popular podcast, “Call Her Daddy” before the release of his summer single, “Love Like This” where he opened up about his life in the last few years and the reason behind reappearing in front of the world.

    In an hour-long conversation with Alex, the Dust Till Dawn singer covered a lot of grey areas and speculations around his life. Here are the top 5 things that stood out in this interview.
    Why he left the band
    It broke the hearts of millions of fans when Zayn Malik decided to leave the beloved British band, One Direction. Although everyone knows what happened next, nobody knew what led to it. Shedding the light on this turning point of his life, the singer said, “I had been thinking about it for a hot minute. There’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes, there’s a lot of politics, pressure and I decided to come ahead of it by taking this decision. It might sound cheesy, but before I quit the band, I called up my mum and asked if she still got a bed for me back home and when said come back home son, I went ahead and did it. also, as an artist, I wanted to make music about more mature and deeper stuff which wasn’t necessarily the demographic of the band.”
    How becoming a parent changed him
    Zayn shares a two-and-a-half-year-old daughter, Khai, with his supermodel ex Gigi Hadid. The former couple welcomed this daughter in September 2020, after which they split in 2021 and have been co-parenting her ever since. “As an adult, your life tends to become grey and monotonous, she added the colour back into her life. I have my daughter with me for 50% of the time and when she is with me, all of my time is dedicated to her.”
    Dealing with anxiety in the present
    Even at the pinnacle of his fame, Zayn was one of the few artists who was vocal about his mental health struggles. Whether it was about cancelling his musical tours or stepping away from the overwhelming world of fame. Today, as he is about to share new music with his fans, he is also making an attempt to reconnect with the world. “I am doing this for my daughter, learning how to deal with my anxiety and speaking in public. I want her to know that her dad can overcome his fears and do things and set that example for her.”
    Importance of leading a quiet life
    Unlike other celebrities who live in LA or New York, the StoryOf My Life singer chose to raise his daughter in Pennsylvania. Away from the hustle-bustle and the shutterbugs, he prefers to protect the privacy of his child by giving her a normal life. “She didn’t choose this life, I did. I at least want her to have an option in the future. I am able to do normal things with my daughter here, which would be difficult to do with cameras flashing all the time. It’s a quiet life with a lot of farm animals. I have three cats, three dog, three turtles and six chickens.”
    Remaining unfazed by the media narrative
    After his breakup with ex-Gigi, the media was quick to build a narrative positioning him as the bad guy. According to many news outlets, the breakup was a result of an altercation between the singer and his partner’s mother, reality star, Yolanda Hadid. Although, neither of the parties confirmed the incident, the internet held him accountable. While sensitively bringing up the subject during the podcast, Alex asked him if there was any merit to the rumour and did it affect his share in custody. Respecting all the parties involved, he cleared the air. “I have 50% custody of my daughter and it wouldn’t have been the case if things said in the media were true. I don’t believe in giving explanations about myself, especially to people who don’t know me. The people who do, know what happened. It was a family matter and I wanted to address it privately. I didn’t want my daughter to grow up reading this as a subject that was discussed in public.”
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @zayn_br and @onedirection More

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    in health and weelbeing

    Here’s Exactly How Your Vagina Changes In Your 20s, 30s And 40s

     Though you may not be aware, vaginas go through changes along with the rest of your body. Here’s of the vagina changes over the decades from your 20s, 30s and beyond …

    Why do vaginas change?

    Through the years, your vagina changes with the rest of your body, drooping and even drying as you approach menopause. Hormonal changes influence the way your vagina looks and feels – though it’s all totally normal. Over time, you can expect a change in vulva thickness, lubrication and pelvic floor strength. Read on for the specifics of how your vagina changes with age.

    In your 20s

    Normal shrinkage

    Puberty’s over (thank goodness) and your organs have reached their adult size. Except, that is, for your labia majora – the outer “lips” that enclose the rest of your privates. Don’t be shocked to see these looking slimmer. As you age, subcutaneous fat, including that of your genitals, decreases.

    In your 30s

    The big stretch

    The uterus balloons to watermelon proportions during pregnancy – then shrinks back down within six weeks after birth. In South Africa, statistics show that the majority of births in private hospitals are conducted by C-section, sparing their vag opening similar stretching.

    Dark shadows

    The hormone shifts that come with pregnancy or ageing can cause your labia minora, the “inner” lips that encircle the clitoris and vaginal opening, to darken in colour. So you can relax if, on your next self-check, it’s like 50 shades of (mauve-ish) grey down there.

    In your 40s

    Short stuff

    Though a woman’s egg supply dwindles rapidly in her early forties, she still ovulates and (sigh) gets her period. Cycles are a bit shorter, though, and tend to peter out by age 51 – i.e. menopause. Your body puts an end to fertility five to 10 years before that.

    Deep squeeze

    Your repro organs are supported by a hammock of tendons, tissue and muscle. Extra kilos, ageing or years of high-impact workouts can loosen this pelvic floor, straining organs and causing bladder leakage or a “heavy” feeling down below. Your move: Kegel exercises! These simple moves strengthen your pelvic floor, making it healthier – and for stronger orgasms.

    Desert rescue

    Lower oestrogen levels affect the vagina’s acid-alkaline balance, which can spur inflammation – along with thinning and drying of the vaginal walls, which can cause itching, burning and redness. Silver lining: regular sex can prevent this (get on it!).

    This article was first published in womenshealthmag.com. More

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    In pics: Sheikha Mahra enjoys her first outing with Sheikh Mana after marriage

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    29 mins ago

    When it comes to planning activities, the UAE Royals know how to get the adrenaline pumping.
    After Sheikha Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum and her husband Sheikh Mana Al Maktoum got married in April, the couple decided to experience a fun activity together.
    Seen at Jebal Ali Shooting Range Club, the couple decided to try their hand at shooting and head to an exhilarating spot in Dubai. Sheikha Mahra even almost managed to hit a bulls eye and shared a series of adorable photos on her feed.
    Situated in the luxurious facility of JA The Resort, this highly-popular spot caters to both beginners and seasoned shooters, serving as a perfect option for an action-packed day. Located in the midst of the Jebel Ali desert, this unique facility stands like a fortress with five floodlit clay shooting ranges, giving its visitors a real taste of the sport.
    When did the couple get married?
    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s daughter Sheikha Mahra got engaged to Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum in March. On April 5 2023, both Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana shared that they celebrated their Katb Al-Kitaab — the official marriage ceremony and signing of the marriage contract through social media.
    Her husband, Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum has served a year in the UAE Armed Forces-National Service. Currently, he is pursuing a degree in Security and Risk Management from the American University in the Emirates.

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

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    Here’s how travel can impact your wellbeing in a holistic way

    Life

    by Amy Sessions
    1 hour ago

    Negin Baradari discusses the importance of knowing the power of where you travel to and how it can impact your wellbeing.
    What “energy” does summer hold?
    Summer escapes can be a wonderful opportunity to recharge our batteries, experience new cultures, and create lasting memories with loved ones. But did you know that the location you choose for your summer getaway can have a significant impact on your overall wellbeing? That’s where the concept of “AstroCartography” comes in.
    What is AstroCartography?
    AstroCartography is a type of locational astrology, created by astrologer Jim Lewis in the 1970s. Simply speaking, it is a visual system for mapping how your astrological birth chart (natal chart) corresponds to different locations on earth.
    How can it affect our choice of travel destinations?
    AstroCartography is the study of how the alignment of the planets and stars at the time of your birth can influence the places where you feel most energized and fulfilled. Similarly, AstroGeology is the study of how the geological features of a location can impact your overall wellbeing. Both of these concepts suggest that every destination holds a certain “energy” that can either support or detract from your individual energy typology. AstroCartography is the study of how the alignment of the planets and stars at the time of your birth can influence the places where you feel most energized and fulfilled. It suggests that every destination holds a certain “energy” that can either support or detract from your individual energy typology. By considering Astro-Cartography when choosing a travel destination, you can align your unique energy typology with the location, potentially enhancing your overall wellbeing and travel experience. By doing so, you can maximize the benefits of your summer escape and ensure that you’re choosing a location that aligns with your unique energy typology. For example, if you’re someone who is naturally drawn to water and feels most at peace when you’re near the ocean, you might consider destinations that have a strong water element in their astrocartography or astrogeology. This could include places like Hawaii, Bali, or the Greek islands, which are all known for their beautiful beaches and ocean views. On the other hand, if you’re someone who is more drawn to mountains and enjoys being surrounded by nature, you might look for destinations that have a strong earth element in their AstroCartography or AstroGeology. This could include places like Colorado, Switzerland, or New Zealand, which are all known for their stunning mountain ranges and outdoor activities.

    Why is it so important to choose the right travel destination based on your energy typology?
    The impact our environment can have on our overall wellbeing is key. Research has shown that being in nature can have a range of health benefits, including reducing stress, improving mood, and boosting cognitive function. Similarly, being in a location that resonates with your individual energy typology can help you feel more grounded, centered, and at peace. It can also help you tap into your natural strengths and abilities, which can be particularly beneficial if you’re looking to make a major life change or pursue a new goal. Travel can be a wonderful opportunity to take a break from our daily routines, recharge our batteries, and create lasting memories with loved ones. By considering your AstroCartography or AstroGeology when choosing a travel destination, you can potentially enhance the benefits of your summer escape and create a deeper connection with the places you visit.
    What do you see when you look at someone’s AstroCartography?
    The Power Spots. AstroCartography can help you identify specific locations where the planetary alignments at the time of your birth have a strong influence. These “power spots” can be areas where you feel more energised, fulfilled, or in alignment with your true self. By knowing these spots, you can prioritise them in your travel plans and experience a deeper connection to the places you visit.
    The New Opportunities. Astrocartography can reveal areas where the planetary energies are aligned to support specific aspects of your life. For example, if you’re looking for career opportunities or personal growth, astrocartography can point out locations where the astrological conditions favor those pursuits. Exploring these places can potentially open up new avenues for success in your chosen field.
    The Enhanced Relationships. AstroCartography can shed light on locations where the energy is conducive to building and strengthening relationships. If you’re seeking love or looking to improve your existing partnerships, AstroCartography can guide you towards destinations where the planetary alignments support harmonious connections and emotional fulfillment. It can be an exciting way to plan a romantic getaway or a meaningful trip with loved ones.
    The Spiritual Connections. If you’re on a spiritual journey, AstroCartography can assist in finding places with strong spiritual energy. These locations might have sacred sites, meditation retreats, or spiritual communities that align with your spiritual beliefs and practices. Visiting these destinations can deepen your spiritual connection, provide transformative experiences, and offer opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
    The Self-Reflection and Healing. AstroCartography can help you identify locations that are aligned with self-reflection, healing, and personal development. These places might offer opportunities for introspection, holistic therapies, or wellness practices that resonate with your energy typology. By visiting such destinations, you can createspace for self-care, rejuvenation, and inner transformation.
    What is your key travel tip?
    For effortless travel, honour your own energy by becoming aware of what energy the travelspot holds uniquely for you. It is as much a journey inwardsas it is an exploration of your selected destination.

    July/August’s – The Travel Issue – Indulge Your Wanderlust  – 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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    “Do I Really Need to Supplement?” and Everything Else You Need To Know About Electrolytes

    If you’ve found yourself in your gym girlie era, chances are you’ve heard of electrolytes, but the extent of your knowledge of them starts and ends with boosting hydration, or perhaps Gatorade’s neon-colored bevvies. While sports drinks have a bad rap for their additives (think: sugar and artificial dye), the electrolytes they contain can do your hydration goals a solid, especially after you’ve worked up a sweat. But what even is an electrolyte, and do you really need to add the buzzworthy supplement to your regimen? I turned to experts to explain and find out how you can tell if you have an electrolyte imbalance. Read on to get the lowdown on everything you need to know about electrolytes. 

    In this article

    What Are Electrolytes, and Why Do You Need Them?
    “Electrolytes are essential minerals that carry an electric charge in our bodies,” explained Dr. Praveen Guntipalli, Medical Director and Owner of Sanjiva Medical Spa. “They play a vital role in maintaining various physiological functions, such as nerve signaling, muscle contractions, and fluid balance. The most common electrolytes include sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, bicarbonate, and phosphate, and are present in bodily fluids like blood, urine, and sweat.” Electrolytes are vital to specific processes that keep your body functioning as it should, namely maintaining proper hydration and nervous system and muscle function as well as regulating the body’s internal pH levels. 
    “When we engage in physical activities or experience excessive sweating due to hot weather or intense exercise, we lose electrolytes,” Dr. Guntipalli continued. “Thus, replenishing them becomes crucial to prevent dehydration and maintain overall health.  Whether through electrolyte-rich foods or drinks, maintaining a balanced intake of these minerals is necessary for optimal bodily functions and overall well-being.”

    Common Symptoms Related to Lack of Electrolytes
    So how do you know if you’re not getting enough? The telltale signs related to a lack of electrolytes, often referred to as electrolyte imbalances, can vary depending on which specific electrolyte is affected and the severity of the imbalance, according to Mary Sabat, MS, RDN, LD, a nutritionist and ACE-certified trainer. “However, some common symptoms may include muscle cramps or weakness, fatigue or lethargy, dizziness or lightheadedness, confusion or difficulty concentrating, and headaches,” she conveyed. Maria Tointon, RDN, LDN, a registered dietitian nutritionist and CEO of Veg Out With Maria laid out some of the common symptoms to look out for based on the type of electrolyte deficiency:
    Sodium: fatigue, headache, nausea, confusion, muscle weakness, and seizures 
    Potassium: muscle weakness or cramps, irregular heartbeat, fatigue, and constipation
    Chloride: fluid loss, dehydration, weakness or fatigue, difficulty breathing, diarrhea or vomiting
    Calcium: muscle cramps, numbness or tingling in the fingers and toes, weakened bones, and dental problems
    Magnesium: muscle spasms, tremors, weakness, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat
     
    Do You Need to Supplement to Get Enough Electrolytes?
    In most cases, a well-rounded diet packed with fruits and vegetables can provide sufficient electrolytes for the average person. That said, “Unfortunately, many people do not eat a balanced diet so the use of electrolyte replacement can be important for many people,” Sabat suggested. “In addition, intense physical activity, prolonged sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, or certain medical conditions may lead to increased electrolyte losses and a need for additional supplementation.” In other words, you should get all the electrolytes you need from an ideal diet, but on days when your fruit and veggie intake is lower or you’re extra depleted (i.e. if you’re doing a sweaty workout, traveling, or feeling under the weather), you may benefit in supplementing to restore electrolyte levels.
    Cue electrolyte supplements like powders or tablets (shop our picks below!). Check with your doctor or nutritionist before starting an electrolyte supplement, and read the ingredient labels carefully when choosing the right one for you (beware of added sugar and artificial sweeteners). Don’t want to purchase another supplement? You can also try some hacks to get in electrolytes, such as adding a pinch of high-quality sea salt to your water, sipping on coconut water, or snacking on electrolyte-rich foods (see below for some ideas).
    How much electrolytes you need depends on your body, your sweat content, and the weather so talk to your doctor about testing or your electrolyte needs. According to the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, you can lose anywhere from 0.5 to 1.5 liters of sweat per hour of exercise, so if you’re working out for an extended period of time and/or in the heat, you can do your body some good by replenishing electrolytes lost with an electrolyte-enhanced fluid during or after your workout.  
     
    Foods That Contain Electrolytes
    To get your daily dose of electrolytes, you can also look to your kitchen staples. Sabat shared several foods that naturally contain electrolytes and can help maintain a healthy balance of essential minerals.
    Sodium: sea salt, pickles, olives, celery, beets, anchovies
    Potassium: bananas, oranges, avocados, tomatoes, spinach, sweet potatoes, yogurt
    Calcium: dairy products (i.e. milk, cheese, yogurt), leafy greens (i.e. kale, broccoli), fortified plant-based milk, tofu
    Magnesium: nuts and seeds (i.e. almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds), spinach, legumes, whole grains, dark chocolate
    Chloride: table salt, seaweed, olives, tomatoes, lettuce
     
    Shop Electrolytes

    Please consult a doctor or healthcare professional before beginning any treatments. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.

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