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    Loved watching Queen Charlotte? 8 period dramas that will fill the void

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    3 hours ago

    Makers of Netflix’s poular series Bridgerton have dropped a new prequel, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, and the internet cannot seem to have enough of it.
    Period dramas always help us escape the present and time travel to an era we weren’t a part of. Generally, most of these shows reek of patriarchy, where women are merely just objectified, (there are a few exceptions, of course).
    In Queen Charlotte however, the power is steered back into the hands of a woman. While there is a king, it is the queen who calls the shots. Besides stressing on gender equality when it comes to monarchy, the series also sheds light on issues of racism, classism and ageism.
    One of the creators of the show is Shonda Rhimes, who is known for delicately introducing the subject of mental health across all her shows of different genres. Similarly in this series, a mental illness has been highlighted and how it was perceived back them. The shame, the stigma and the archaic treatment that stems for lack of knowledge and advancement.
    Most importantly, what makes the show special is the vulnerability that is exchanged between characters. While shows and depictions of royal families are always approached with measured interactions where words are threaded lightly, this particular series thrives on high-voltage emotions and chemistry.
    If you’re done watching the Bridegerton prequel, here are 8 regency dramas you can watch instead.

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

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    in health and weelbeing

    I Tried Bloat-Reducing Leggings–Here Are My Thoughts

    If there’s one thing you must know about me it’s that I love pizza. My gut, on the other hand, does not. Case in point: I usually get a stomach ache and continue to feel bloated even the next day when I have a slice or two. While I haven’t always struggled with bloating, it’s become more common as I’ve gotten older and something I’m self-conscious about. So when I came across Emma Lou The Label, an athleisure brand with “bloat-reducing” leggings, I had to give them a try. 
    As a personal trainer and CEO & founder of Emma Lou The Label, Emma Vollrath heard so many of her clients struggle with lower belly bloat and wanted to create a product that wasn’t a pill or an uncomfortable waist trainer to help them. Enter the Glow Band. The Glow Band is an extra layer of thermoplastic fabric added to the waistband of the leggings that Vollrath created to help target water weight, reduce bloat, and draw out toxins. How is this possible, you ask? Read on to learn about their reasoning behind the Glow Band leggings, my experience trying them out, and whether or not they really work.   

    How it works
    Remember those plastic-looking sweatsuits that were popular in the ’80s? Or that scene in Silver Linings Playbook where Bradley Cooper is wearing a trash bag while he runs? Well, the Glow Band itself is kind of the same idea. The recycled thermoplastic is made of a heat-trapping fabric that can aid in bloat reduction. Think of it like your own personal sauna for just your lower stomach. “When you heat trap a certain area—in this case, the lower stomach—you slowly and safely increase your body temperature, which helps reduce water weight and bloating due to increased sweat and regulation,” Vollrath explained. The Glow Band works by targeting water retention, as well as assisting the body in drawing out toxins (by creating sweat). 

    My experience
    After looking through the variety of options on the site, I selected the Toby Set (because your girl loves neutrals), and eagerly awaited its arrival. Once I had the pieces in hand, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the fabric and the stitching. I wasn’t sure what to expect from a smaller brand, but the pieces are on par with—if not better than—some of my other high-end workout clothes. 
    I first wore the bike shorts while working from home. I was curious if I would notice any effects from the Glow Band if I wasn’t working out, and I was shocked when I realized my lower stomach felt much warmer than the rest of my body just sitting at my desk. The next time I wore the bike shorts was during a morning HIIT workout. I don’t usually sweat, but that wasn’t the case while I sported the Toby Sculpt & Sweat Shorts. After I finished my workout, I felt much hotter than usual and my lower stomach underneath the Glow Band was dripping in sweat, so they definitely work to get heat moving in the area. 
    As for whether or not they help beat bloat? Since I usually work out in the morning (which is when I’m the least bloated), it’s hard to say if the Glow Band actually helped or not, but I did experience more long-term effects of feeling tighter in my waist and helped me sweat more (can be beneficial in supporting the lymphatic system to help to detoxify the body).

    The final verdict
    These leggings are obviously not the answer to my dairy and gluten intolerance (and they’re not claiming to be), but I do think they’re a great option for helping reduce water retention. Of course, they are not a magical cure for digestive issues (there are many potential causes of bloat), but the Glow Band does work in making you sweat. In other words, your body sweating is what is providing the benefits of reduction in water retention and getting rid of toxins. These leggings can assist in creating sweat in your stomach area, but you can also reap the benefits of getting sweaty from a hot yoga class, sauna, steam shower, etc. I like having this option as a little added bonus for any type of workout or even while doing chores.
    These have also become my go-to leggings during my period when I’m feeling a little puffy or after a night out and I’ve had one too many glasses of Sauv Blanc (no scientific data to back this up, but I’ve noticed they help me feel less puffy and uncomfortably bloated when I typically would). Bloat-reducing benefits aside, these leggings are also comfortable and make me feel good, so you can find me opting for them from my next grocery store run to lounging at home. IMO, they’re not magical leggings that are going to completely get rid of all bloat forever, and you can reap the benefits they claim by working up any kind of sweat in other ways. But if you love feeling like you’re adding a little extra support to your body in an effortless way like I do, they’re very much worth a try.

    Workout Clothes So Good, You’ll Want To Wear Them 24/7 More

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    Celebrating the life of Queen Elizabeth II: 9 precious times she visited the GCC

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 9 IMAGES
    Queen Elizabeth II, the longest reigning monarch in the United Kingdom’s history, died aged 96 on September 8, 2022.
    Her Majesty died “peacefully” at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, according to Buckingham Palace.
    Her son, now known as King Charles III,  ascended the throne last weekend in a coronation ceremony watched by millions around the globe. His son Prince William is now the new heir to the UK throne.
    Last year, Queen Elizabeth became the first-ever British monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years on the throne.
    Throughout her seven decades on the throne, Her Majesty maintained a close relationship with the GCC countries, having visited the region on many occasions.
    To mark her incredible life, we look back on the decades of friendship with other GCC royals.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @theroyalfamily More

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    11 luxe new restaurants to visit in Dubai ASAP

    Dubai is never short of new restaurants to dine in.
    Known for its enriching culinary options, tourists and residents are never short of dining gems to visit in the city.
    With a plethora of new openings, it’s hard to keep track of where to visit next and to do so, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all the latest must-visit hotspots in the city, that you’ll keep going back to.
    Tagomago

    For the ultimate Balearic feel, the restaurant, bar and beach club Tagomago has officially opened its doors in Dubai. With bohemian aesthetics, this must-visit hotspot serves both lunch and dinner with freshly sourced ingredients. Opened under RIKAS Hospitality, this holiday spot offers a signature menu curated by chef Gilles Bouquet, with dishes for everyone. The space features 120 sunbeds on the beach and outdoor 200 covers across the terrace dining area, in the pergola area and at the chiringuito. Located at Palm West Beach, Azure Residence, the venue’s restaurant is open from 12pm to 1am and the beach is open from 10am to sunset.
    For more information visit tagomago.ae
    Josette

    As part of Orange Hospitality, this glamorous restaurant has opened its doors in the heart of Dubai. After the success of other renowned restaurants such as Il Borro Tuscan Bistro and Alici, this unique dining experience welcomes decadent experiences such as a stylish afternoon team and an evening live performance dining show. Adding to the charm are its unique interiors designed by renowned London-based artists and designer Luke Edward Hall. Guests can slice into tune tartare, foie gras terrine, escargot, ratatouille, soup a l’oignon, and plateau de Josette, a signature seafood platter. The restaurant is located in ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC and is open from 12pm to 3am.
    For more information visit josette.com
    Fouquet’s

    As a combination of art and culture, this fine-dining haven has embodied the spirit of Paris in every realm. With red parasols, traditional French café tables and a hanging garden against the backdrop of the city, the interiors complement the restaurant’s story. The menu draw upon local produce, with a good measure of creative flair and fresh ingredients. With the hanging garden against the city’s skyline, the evening is enhanced by the restaurant’s DJs. Situated in the heart of Downtown, the restaurants is located in Burj Plaza and open from Monday to Thursday 8am to 2am and Friday to Sunday 8am to 10pm.
    For more information visit hotelsbarriere.com
    Bungalo34

    After recently being added under the Tashas Group wing, this chic restaurant offers a blissful escape from city life with uninterrupted seaside views of the Arabian Gulf. The menu promises a variety of offerings ranging from Strapatsada, Lobster Benedict, Three Cheese Souffle Omelette and a housemade glyko koutaliouof sweet pumpkin served on vanilla Greek yogurt for all the sweet tooths, to name a few dishes. Founded by the talented Natasha Sideris, the sophisticated Mediterranean experience ensures a calm environment to enjoy with friends and family. For all the shopaholics, this new hotpot offers a bespoke retail experience for guests with a selection of beachwear pieces, handmade accessories, bags, swimwear and other hand-picked experience for the complete experience. Situated at Nikki Beach, this restaurant is open from 9am to 12am.
    For more information visit dubai.nikkibeach.com
    La Mar by Gastón Acurio

    If you’re on the lookout to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a fine-dining experience, La Mar at the newly opened Atlantis The Royal is the restaurant to visit. Curated by Chef Gaston Acurio, the restaurant offers diners a chance to explore authentic flavours of Peruvian Gastronomy with an enticing menu of freshly grilled anticuchos, signature cebiches and other specialty cocktails. As a culinary leader in the world of Peruvian gastronomy, Chef Gaston has created dishes with recipes passed down from his mother. Open daily from 6pm to 11pm, the restaurant is located at the mezzanine lobby level and overlooks the Skyblaze fountain, guests can choose to take a seat on the large open terrace or at the bustling cebiche bar, or the main dining area surrounded by incredible subtle decor. The restaurant is open daily from 6pm to 11pm.
    For more information visit atlantis.com
    Masti

    After shifting to a new location, Masti is all set to welcome guests to its restaurant situated at the Dubai Edition. Listed in the first Michelin Guide this restaurant brings a bold 360-degree experiential offering of innovative food, experimental beverages and unmatched hospitality. Masti remains emboldened and unafraid to be different. The new location will take risks and deliver a buzzing dining scene, with a sprinkling of Masti spice at The Dubai Edition. Befitting of the restaurant’s legendary reputation, the iconic Dubai Edition Hotel, optimally positioned on Fountain Street, Downtown will prove a stellar destination from which the restaurant can shine from. The restaurant is open from Sunday to Thursday from 12:30pm to 1am and 12:30pm to 2am.
    For more information visit mastidubai.com
    La Niña

    With Iberian-Latino fusion cuisine, La Niña opened its doors this year with sophisticated décor featuring lavish chandeliers and rich red velvet furniture that has taken inspiration from centuries of sea exploration. Designed with traditional Azulejo tiles from Portugal, this sophisticated dining venue takes visitors back in time with a renewed sense of excitement. or an unforgettable dining experience, guests can indulge in an array of delectable delights crafted by a team of world-class experts to conquer every diner’s taste buds. By taking it up a notch, the restaurant offers a host of cutting-edge cocktails and a selection of premium beverages. Located in the heart of DIFC at ICD Brookfield, the restaurant is open daily from 12pm to 4pm and 7:30pm to 1am.
    For more information visit laninarestaurant.com
    Mott 32

    Looking for somewhere new to dine? Mott 32 made the Middle East its first destination this year. Inspired by Manhattan’s first Chinese convenience store, the restaurant seamlessly blends the finest flavours of Hong Kong with lofty New York-style interiors. With signature hand-crafted cocktails and freshly prepared dishes such as a selection of dim sums and plat-based signatures, guests are spoiled for choice from the moment they enter. Located on the 73rd floor, it features an impressive indoor area, as well as an open-air terrace with stunning views across Bluewater Island, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and the Ain Dubai. The restaurant is open daily from dinner from 6pm until 1am
    For more information visit mott32dubai.com
    City Social

    Launched by celebrity chef Jason Atherton, this sophisticated restaurant serves fine European cuisine with 360-degree views of the city. With unrivalled views across Dubai Marina and Dubai Harbour, diners can indulge in modern European cuisine that showcases the best ingredients from around the world with exquisite beverages to complement the menu. With the team of expert mixologists and beautifully created cocktails. Located at Grosvenor House, it’s open from Monday to Thursday 6pm to 2am and Friday & Saturday 6pm to 3am and is closed on Sunday.
    For more information visit citysocialdubai.com
    Hawkerboi

    What started as one of Dubai’s most sought-after supper clubs has now gone on to open its own restaurant. From first hosting in secret locations around Dubai, this highly-anticipated venue will serve Asian-hawker style food that takes inspiration from the founder’s life in the Far East. Known for his concealed identity, Hawkerboi is considered the Banksy of Dubai in the culinary world and never fails to amaze his diners with exquisite dishes that represent his travels. With delectable dishes such as Wagyu Skewers with Peanut Nahm Jim, Charcoal Short Ribs and more, the space is designed for with red neon piping to balance the underground foodie community in the city. Designed by its parent company EatX, this space projects a vast open kitchen by mastering the art of balance and theatre. Located at The Park, Jumeirah Lake Towers, the restaurant will officially open for walk-ins on Wednesday, April 26, 2023 and will be open from Sunday to Thursday 7pm to 10pm and Friday and Saturday 7pm to 11pm.
    For more information visit hawkerboi.com
    Nola Bijou Bistro & Bar

    Recently opened in the heart of city, Nola Bijou Bistro and Bar, promises an immersive experience unlike any other. Inspired by the 19th century New Orleans with hints of Parisian influencers, Nola offers an easygoing vintage modern look in the culinary world. With a sensational music experience rooted in Jazz, guests can expect soulful live performances by the loved Nuvo Soul band complimented by high-energy jazz and soul beats by the in-house resident DJ. With French and Cajun food traditions, the restaurants lends to an explosion of flavours in its premium dishes such as char-grilled broccoli, burrata topped with anchovies and wagyu beef tartare. For the space, the restaurant features rich velvet sofas, a library, antique lamps and lush greenery with bi-folding windows that brings the outdoors indoors. The restaurant is perched atop Mythos Urban Greek Eatery at The Square in City Walk and open daily from noon until 1am and until 2am on the weekends.
    For more information visit citywalk.ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @tagomago More

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    6 Dubai spots to cater to your matcha dessert cravings

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    6 hours ago

    As a healthier alternative to your caffeine intake, Matcha has increased in popularity over the years.
    With various cafés in Dubai bringing on a new take to Matcha in the form of new desserts, there’s a plethora of hotspots to visit with Japan’s most loved
    This delectable incarnation in cakes and other sweet tooth variables has been seen throughout the Emirate as the ingredient continues to rise in fame.
    So if you’re on the lookout for an experimental take on matcha, Emirates Woman has curated a guide to all the must-visit spots in Dubai.
    NETTE

    Situated in the heart of Dubai’s premium boutique padel club, this urban sanctuary brings the perfect blend of Japanese with Parisian. Surrounded by a padel court and yoga studio, this culinary space is a home for must-try wellness activities. With a wholesome menu, the café serves both iced and hot matcha with an array of alternative milk choices to choose from. Their vegan Matcha and Chocolate éclair is a must-try for your matcha cravings. The quaint café is located inside MATCHA Club, Al Quoz.
    Megumi Matcha

    As Dubai’s first matcha specialty shop, this woman-owned and operated café works as a farm-to-packaging concept. For all the macaron lovers, this Korean-style macaron comes with Black sesame matcha flavour with an irresistible taste. Run by women, guests can also delve into the history of the Japanese tea ceremony. Megumi hosts a matcha workshop at Vanilla Sukkar – a local mother-and-daughter-owned gem in Jumeirah.
    For more information visit megumimatcha.com
    The Kakao Guy

    Satisfy your sweet tooth with their luscious Matcha Nama Chocolate. Made with premium quality ingredients, this indulgent treat is a fusion of rich, creamy chocolate and earthy matcha flavors that will tantalise your taste buds. Known for their freshly bakes cakes and desserts this Nama chocolate with customers craving for more and can now be delivered straight to your doorstep.
    For more information visit thekakaoguy.com
    Yamanote Atelier

    At this artisanal Japanese bakery and café concept guests can expect a wide variety of savoury and sweet dishes. Inspired by Japanese minimalist and pastel colours, this venue comes with a modern quirky edge. Reminiscent of the cafés Japanese culture, the pieces are baked fresh with authentic ingredients. For the matcha lover, the newly introduced matcha-flavoured dessert, Ya Baum is the perfect treat. Guests can visit the brand’s several locations across Dubai including Mirdif Hills, Dubai Frame, Al Seef Village Mall, Motor City, Al Ferdous Dubai and The Dubai Mall.
    For more information visit yamanoteatelier.com
    Bageri Form

    Inspired by Scandinavian design, this artisanal café was elevating bakery classics and serving dishes with the freshest of ingredients. With Nordic-infused interiors, the bakery also serves freshly sourced matcha in minimal cups for a rejuvenating start to the day. With an aesthetic presentation, this place is beyond Instagrammable-worthy. For all the matcha fans, the restaurant has recently added the matcha tartine with matcha butter and biscuit crumb. It’s located in Dubai Design District, Building 4.
    For more information visit bageriform.com
    Soo Matcha

    As UAE’s all Matcha-inspired café, visitors are sure to have the whole matcha experience. After first launching in early 2020, this hotspot comes with all things matcha. By experimenting with different flavours and constantly tailoring their menu, the brand even has its own matcha-flavoured ice cream that’s irresistible and must-try.
    For more information visit soomatcha.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @beauty_snob More

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    An Expert Weighs In: The How and Why of Negotiating Your Salary

    Welcome to The Everygirl Podcast. Whether you’re looking for insider secrets from successful women that have your dream job, are interested in expert advice to transform your health and feel your best, or just want to be entertained and laugh along with us on your commute, we’ve got you covered.

    If there’s one thing I hate more than confrontation, it’s confrontation that has anything to do with money. I want to crawl under a rock anytime salaries, wages, or budgets are brought up. Unfortunately, I can’t turtle my way out of conversations about money, and neither should any woman. That’s why this week on The Everygirl Podcast, we’re speaking with Jennifer Justice, former entertainment lawyer for Jay-Z and Beyoncé and founder of The Justice Dept.
    Jennifer has dedicated her career to advocating on behalf of women who are underpaid and overworked in male-dominated industries. She has a wealth of knowledge (pun intended) about wage negotiation tips and tricks. Why should we be making the conscious, informed choice to negotiate our salaries? Read on for Jennifer’s answer, and check out this week’s episode of The Everygirl Podcast for more.

    Why you should be negotiating your salary

    Advocating for your own worth makes you a better asset to the company
    When you’re offered a new position, it’s a big deal. Odds are that the company you are negotiating with has sifted through several candidates in order to land on you. According to Jennifer, one of the main reasons why salary negotiation is so important is because once an employer has decided they want you to be a part of their company, they are going to want to do everything possible to make sure that the deal is sealed. “Hiring people takes a lot of human capital time and effort,” Jennifer said on The Everygirl Podcast. “If you’re not advocating for yourself, are you going to advocate for the company?”

    The wage gap is real: negotiation is your way to help close it
    PSA: Women are 200 years away from closing the wage gap. Of course, much of this unfortunate statistic has to do with systemic sexism; however, Jennifer advocates for salary negotiation because she knows that when individual women fight for higher wages, the more capable they are of changing that system. “We’re not asking for enough, and we’re being underestimated and underpaid,” she said.
    When you advocate for higher wages for yourself, you have more opportunities to support other women, buy women’s products, and put money back into what Jennifer refers to as the matriarchal economy. Salary negotiation is about more than just your own finances; it’s also about closing the wage gap, one step at a time.

    Jennifer Justice’s top negotiating tips

    If possible, negotiate over email
    According to Jennifer, asking for more money face-to-face, or even on a Zoom call, can make you lead with emotion. Her recommendation is to discuss potential options and offers over the phone with your employer, but if negotiation is needed, tell your employer you need time to think about it. Then, actually do take some time to think about it, and communicate your thoughts in a well-composed email so you can lead with logic rather than emotion.

    Act as if you are negotiating for someone you really care about
    Sometimes, it can be easier to advocate for others than it is for ourselves. Jennifer suggests imagining yourself negotiating on behalf of your friends, family, significant other, or even your pet. “Ask yourself what it is in your life that you love more than yourself. For me, it’s my kids,” Jennifer said on The Everygirl Podcast. “When someone is trying to take advantage of you or get too much out of you, they’re really doing it to that person you love so much.”
    At the end of the day, if you are being underpaid for the work you are doing, you will have less time to put into the things and people you love. Whether that’s time with your family or resources for your kids (or pet, or even your passions!), being underpaid will affect many areas in your life. Remembering this while you go about the negotiation process can help put things in perspective.

    Ask for all the things, not just a higher salary
    Unfortunately, higher wages are not always something that you can count on during a negotiation process. Budgets are budgets, and as much as you may want to break the glass ceiling with your salary, sometimes it’s just not in the cards. Jennifer recommends presenting an alternative to higher wages, such as higher benefits.
    Jennifer even suggests asking for a different title as a trade-off for salary when negotiating. “You need the title for wherever you’re going next,” she explained on The Everygirl Podcast. “That actually speaks to what you’re going to do, versus the salary, which the next company’s not going to know about.” Getting a better title for your job, even when you might not receive a salary increase, can set you up for success in the long run. As Jennifer points out, negotiating is all about creating a brighter future. More

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    in health and weelbeing

    33 Ways to Romanticize Your Life This Summer

    Like most kids, I grew up impatiently counting down the days until summer. With a wide-open calendar in front of me, I could dedicate my days to reading for hours, biking until the sun went down, and taking spontaneous swims whenever I craved a cool-off. But as an adult, my anticipation for the June-through-August freedom of summer has shifted to anxieties about the unbearable heat.
    I think summer is somehow both the easiest and the most difficult time of year to romanticize your life. With flowers in bloom, picnic season in full swing, and nap dresses taking the place of cozier layers, everything can feel straight out of a Jane Austen novel (add in a wedding or two to seal the deal). But summer can also present a challenge because of the brutally hot days we seem to forget about all year until they arrive in July. 
    But romanticizing your every day is about finding the beauty in moments that bring both ease and challenge. While aesthetics play a role, creating and leaning into this magic is a gift to yourself; an act of self-love. Yes, we can move through our days tied to the rhythm of routine, but sprinkling in a little whimsy is the perfect antidote to living on autopilot. So, here are 33 ways to embrace your summer self and romanticize your life this season.

    1. Experiment with vibrant smoothies. Summer food is all about color. Add beetroot powder to your strawberry sipper, matcha to a classic green bevy, or spirulina to brighten up a simple vanilla smoothie.
    2. Transition your wardrobe. Speaking of color, while summer black might be trending, this is the season to go bright and lean into vibrancy with pink, light blue, or minty green. This a reminder to embrace an “anything goes” mindset as your summer affirmation.
    3. DIY your decor. Who doesn’t love a handmade home? I have my eyes on this minimalist console table or this easy mushroom lamp.
    4. Upgrade your supplements routine. If you have a hard time remembering your morning vitamins, set up a supplement station. Source a cute tray, add a bud vase, and perhaps throw in a crystal or two for *vibes*—you’ll never forget your supplements again.
    5. Become a farmer’s market girlie. You know, the girls who make it a point to get out of bed before nine on Sundays, stroll to the market (woven basket in tow) and get the first pick of all the fresh in-season produce. This summer, you can be that girl.
    6. Shift your work routine for summertime. Blue skies and sunny days can make writing emails even more of a drag. Head to a coffee shop, co-work with a friend, or if you work from the office, prioritize completing your to-do list on a sun-soaked patio. Vitamin D, y’all!
    7. Schedule walking dates with friends. Meet up with a neighbor or set up a regular walking routine with a gal pal. It’s the perfect way to get outside, socialize, and get that aforementioned vitamin D. 
    8. Go camping. If you haven’t embraced the great outdoors yet, summer’s the best time to make it happen. Gather your friends or go with your partner: pack a tent, car camp, or find a cute cabin near your city. It’s the best reset.
    9. Visit a small town. If camping isn’t your thing, this is especially for you: book a bed and breakfast in a charming town near you, and cue the Hallmark vibes.
    10. Redesign your nightstand. If your nightstand has become a dumping ground for all your miscellaneous items, Marie Kondo it up and keep only the essentials. Your journal, your current read, a glass of water, and maybe a small lamp (notice how I didn’t say phone? That’s part of the nightstand detox too).
    11. Embrace summer baking, or work your way through all the no-bake recipes you can find. Lemon poppyseed muffins, strawberry shortcakes, icebox cakes… the possibilities are endless.
    12. On a really hot day, take refuge from the heat in a museum. PSA: they’re not just for rainy days. Grab a friend, partner, or go by yourself, and soak in the inspiration all around you.
    13. Try a summer-proof updo. My long locks and I have a love-hate relationship come summer. Instead of my go-to pony, this is the year I debut a braid crown (slicked-back buns à la The Clean Girl aesthetic work just as well).
    14. Shake up your summer lunch. As much as I love the convenience of my meal prep routine, my midday grain bowls need a revamp. Update your lunch with seasonal veggies, a mix of fresh herbs, and a sauce or two to keep things tasty.
    15. Reorganize your fridge, because it’s about time. Take everything out, throw away or compost the yuck, and give what’s left a home. Store leafy herbs in glass jars full of cold water, treat yourself to a cute egg tray, and pick up a pack of those pastel crates everyone’s obsessing over to add more seasonal color. Reminder: It should be a joy to open your fridge.
    16. Mail postcards, because there’s something so summery and vintage about a good ol’ fashioned postcard. But you don’t have to take a trip to let friends and family know you wish they were here. Spend a Sunday afternoon writing cute little cards and mailing them out.

    17. Swap in summer candles. Save your white cypress and fir for next season–now’s the time for florals, citrus, and linen scents to make an appearance.
    18. Up your lighting game. If there’s one romance-your-life rule to live by, it’s this: add dimmers to your lights or swap in smart bulbs to play with the ambiance as you please.
    19. Take it outside. Whether it’s a meal, a reading sesh, or your journaling routine—in the summer, take everything you can outdoors. 
    20. Grab a go-to hat. Sun protection? Sexy. Whether you’re a ball cap gal or sun hats are your coverage of choice, it’s the must-have accessory of summer.
    21. Find creative ways to stay hydrated. Electrolyte powders? Check. Floral ice cubes? Of course. Your version of the viral Stanley tumbler or security bottle? Always within reach.
    22. Perfect your version of the no-make-up-makeup look. When summer hits, forget your foundation. Instead, throw on a primer, some bronzer drops, and whatever else you need to feel like your shiny, sun-kissed self.
    23. Go extra with your mani. Everyone might be opting for OPI’s Funny Bunny, but in the summer, I like to stand out. Go for lemon-kissed yellow tips, abstract swirly blue, or cosmic vibes instead. 
    24. Plant your own herbs or veggies. You don’t need a backyard to grow a garden. Plant herbs on your windowsill, patio, or balcony, or sign up for a community garden plot in your neighborhood. 
    25. Freshen up your bed linens. Make weekly washes a routine and swap in cooler sheets for warm summer nights.
    26. Make flowers a weekly buy. We have Trader Joe’s for a reason—and it’s not just the snacks.
    27. Judge a book by its cover. That’s right, go ahead—it’s not a rule, but many of the best recent reads are also the most Instagrammable. Exhibit A, B, and C.
    28. Drink your coffee (or tea) from tea cups. Grandmillennial decor is holding strong, and it’s making our morning beverage habit all the more enjoyable.
    29. Go to the movies by yourself. It’s an excellent way to stay cool on those hot days,  cosplay as a mysterious cinema girl, and spend quality time with yourself.
    30. Make a summer vision board–they’re not just for January! Cut up old magazines or take to Pinterest to set the tempo for the months to come. Manifestation isn’t a pipe dream; it’s an intention for all you want to bring into your life.
    31. Schedule a midday movement sesh. It doesn’t have to be complicated or long, just a simple way to stretch your body between meetings. A 20-minute yoga flow, a quick walk outdoors, or a lazy girl workout. Think of it as a reset for the afternoon to come.
    32. Refresh your content consumption. We love rewatching Ted Lasso as much as the next girl, but find the summer content that will always remind you of this season. Need a new podcast? An inspiring read? Or how about a fresh show? 
    33. Reinvent your social media self. Take time to reflect on how you want to show up on your accounts. Personal story: I’ve realized that I’m a bit unhinged and actually funny—and it brings me joy to connect with others by embracing those truths about myself online.

    The Summer of You: 10 Ways To Upgrade Your Routine for Summer More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    In Pics: Royal family reveals face of Sheikh Mohammed’s youngest grandchild

    Life

    by Ruman Baig
    36 mins ago

    Born on February 25, 2023, Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum is the newest baby of the Dubai Royal family.
    While the Crown Prince of Dubai has given a glimpse of the little one through his Instagram in the past, this is the first time, 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.
    Recently, these new images surfaced on the internet and everyone has been in awe of them ever since. Both dressed in pristine white, the ruler of Dubai and the Crown Prince’s new born share a heart-warming moment.
    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.
    Known for his kind-hearted spirit and warmth, HH Sheikh Mohammed is often seen spending quality time with all of his grand children. From taking them horse riding to celebrating days of festivals surrounded by kids, the Prime Minister is always doing the most for his heirs.
    Take a look at this adorable moment between the two.

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    Images: Instagram @shaikhasaeed_m More