Raphael Stevens

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    in health and weelbeing

    Healthier Holiday Dessert Recipes a Registered Dietitian Swears By

    If you ask me, the holidays aren’t complete without your favorite, nostalgic foods. Even as an adult, I still look forward to decorating sugar cookies this time of year. Between work parties, family celebrations, and holiday festivities with friends, it can seem like dessert options are never-ending. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself or you have to forgo them altogether. 
    While I believe all foods can be enjoyed in moderation as a part of a healthy diet, it’s also important to be mindful of added sugar consumed during the holidays and beyond. Luckily, there are countless festive dessert recipes that incorporate healthy fats, natural sweeteners, and fiber without sacrificing taste. Keep reading for a round-up of healthier holiday desserts you can enjoy this season. 

    Source: Fit Foodie Finds

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    Source: Fit Foodie Finds

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    Source: Eating Bird Food

    Source: Real Food with Jessica
     

    Source: Eating Bird Food

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    Source: Real Food with Jessica
     

    Source: Ambitious Kitchen
     

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    Source: Eating Bird Food

    10 Festive Non-Alcoholic Cocktails to Try This Season More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    Why Madrid is a royal cityscape that awaits your visit this winter

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    3 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: As a city rich in history with royal ties, Madrid is the beating heart of Europe and is the perfect cityscape this season.

    Whoever said Spain was only an escape during summer? Madrid, the country’s capital, makes for the perfect cityscape this winter season. Exuding a vibrant culture, rich heritage, a history rooted in royalty, varied gastronomical offerings and a plethora of luxury hotels, this premium city is the ideal destination for a break during the upcoming season.
    A Royal Heritage
    Similar to many other European countries, Spain still upholds a constitutional monarchy, with the royal family taking residence in the capital city. The Spanish monarchy – now headed up by King Felipe VI and his wife Queen Letizia – dates back to the eighth century. To get a true sense of the city’s royal heritage a visit to the Royal Palace of Ma- dried – also known as the ‘Palacio Real de Madrid’ – is a must-visit. Previously home to monarchs Charles III, Alfonso XIII and more, the Spanish royal family no longer lives there, but it does remain their official residence. While at the Royal Palace of Madrid, take a stroll in the Sabatini Gardens, which features an exhibition of sculptures, located in front of the north façade of the grounds. The palace also houses the Royal Kitchen which reopened five years ago in 2017 after undergoing a huge renovation, but the Real Cocina remains the oldest well-preserved kitchen of a European royal residence.
    Continuing the royal tour of Madrid, historical buildings to add to the must-visit list should include: Liria Palace, the official residence of the House of Alba, a well-known Spanish aristocratic family; the Prado Museum which opened in 1819 and was used by King Ferdinand VII to store the royal paintings; and the Royal Botanic Gardens located in the centre of Madrid with more than 5,000 species of plants to see.
    As well as these royal heritage spots, the Royal Tapestry Factory is a particularly special venue to visit. First founded in 1720, the neomudéjar building produces the tapestries, carpets and coats of arms for the royal family which can be seen throughout many of the palaces including: Palacio Real, Palacio del Pardo, Palacio de la Granja de San Ildefonso, Palacio de Aranjuez, Palacio de Riofrío, Reales Alcázares, Palacio de Pedralbes, and numerous other national and international institutions.
    The Shopping

    No visit to Madrid is complete without a shopping experience fit for royalty. While there is Galería Canalejas an avant-garde shopping area is set across 15,000 metres, tourists should also take the opportunity to visit the areas which tell a story. For example, Sanz Joyeros is a century-old jewellery business – now run by Carrera y Carrera – known as the supplier for the Spanish royals. Then there is CapasSeseña, founded by tailor Santos Seseña Rojas in 1901, creating traditional Span- ish capes following traditional cutting and hand-stitching methods. To this day, Capas Seseña is commissioned by the royals for tailor-made pieces. The current monarch, King Felipe VI, has had a Seseña cape since he was 21 years old.
    The Gastronomy

    The Spanish capital is home to a plethora of homegrown restaurants and eateries, many of which have witnessed historical moments take place over the years. In particular, Lhardy Restaurante has over 180 years of history in Madrid and is famed for witnessing the meetings of politicians, nobilities and intellectuals resulting in the overthrowing of monarchies and the creation of republics. Meanwhile, for a more casual dining setting, there’s the San Miguel Market. It first opened in 1916 as a local food market, but is now Madrid’s foremost gourmet market and today houses the cuisine from globally renowned chefs.
    For those with a sweet tooth, there’s Casa Mira, opened by Luis Mira in 1842 with a simple stall. The confectioner soon became a supplier to the royal household during the reign of Isabel II, Amadeo de Saboya, Al- fonso XII, the Regency of María Cristina and Alfonso XIII. To this day, Casa Mira is run by the Mira family and is now located in the area of Carrera de San Jerónimo.
    The Stay

    No stay in Madrid is complete without a hotel fit for royalty and several of Madrid’s hotels are housed within buildings that were once noble properties including: AC Pala- cio del Retiro, Catalonia Las Cortes, Gran Meliá Palacio de los Duques and more.
    For more information visit esmadrid.com/en

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

    6 Holistic Experts Share Their Most Powerful Tip To Boost Libido

    So you’ve lost that lovin’ feeling (cue Tom Cruise, AKA “Maverick,” singing in Top Gun). That’s OK—being in a sexual rut is totally normal (and you’re not a failure for experiencing it). Not convinced? According to a survey conducted by Headspace and Peanut, 75% of women have experienced low sex drive. What’s more, another study found that only 10% of women easily reach the “Big O” on a regular basis. But let’s be real: Being in good company doesn’t help the situation when all you want is to get in the mood and get down to (horizontal) business. The good news is there are simple and natural ways to help kick your sex drive in high gear. I sought the advice of a range of holistic experts—from a doctor of Chinese medicine to a certified sexological bodyworker—on how to have better orgasms and libido. Ahead, they share their most powerful, orgasm-guaranteed tips for improving libido. Goodbye, dry spell. Hello, mojo.  

    1. Dr. Taz Bhatia, M.D.

    Meet the expert
    Dr. Taz Bhatia, M.D.
    Integrative Health Expert, Founder of CentreSpringMD, PBS Host, and TEDX Speaker
    Dr. Taz is a board-certified integrative and holistic medicine physician who gained national recognition as a best-selling author of the books, “What Doctors Eat” and “Super Woman RX.” She also has her own PBS special, “Super Woman RX with Dr. Taz.”

    “While there may not be scientific evidence on their effect, certain foods are known to get a rise out of your libido. And who doesn’t need an excuse to indulge in a little chocolate? Chocolates, oysters, figs and hot peppers are said to have aphrodisiacal powers. While tomatoes and broccoli aren’t the sexiest foods in the fridge, they are known to excite your libido as well. You can also try pomegranate juice; its deep sultry color is stimulating and can give you a boost in the bedroom. But be sure to toss out the baked goods and the cheese plate, as refined carbs like white bread are libido killers.”

    2. Kiana Reeves

    Meet the expert
    Kiana Reeves
    Sex Educator, Sexological Bodyworker, Pelvic Care Practitioner, and Certified Doula
    Kiana Reeves has been practicing in the field of sexual wellness and female reproductive health for over 10 years. Her career began in birth work as a full spectrum doula, working with mothers and families during birth, postpartum, abortion, and miscarriage. Her background in pleasure, intimacy, and sexuality is informed by her work as a certified somatic sex educator.

    “Get clear on what you want your sex life to look like and become dedicated to it. We’re creatures of habit and sometimes our habits don’t support the type of passion and sexual connection we actually want. Ask yourself (and your partner if you have one) how many times a week you want to spend connecting sexually and then put it on the calendar. This will prepare you mentally to set that time aside, and then commit to using all of your tools to awaken and stir your own desire. This can look like sensually massaging each other, dancing together, taking a bath with aphrodisiac herbs before you connect, and using all-natural supportive sexual wellness products to help activate the process of arousal and pleasure so that when you do engage sexually, you really are able to feel the pleasure you desire.”

    3. Sarah Donner

    Meet the expert
    Sarah Donner
    Integrative Hypnotherapist, Holistic Health Coach, and Founder of Siva Wellness
    Sarah Donner is the founder of Siva Wellness, a brand that focuses on improving mental health through integrative hypnotherapy and holistic health coaching. Donner is a certified expert in Reiki, holistic health coaching, and hypnotherapy.

    “Balancing your hormones is key to better libido and life in general. Getting a full hormone panel done and making educated decisions from there is an amazing start. Building a relationship with your body and observing how you feel during the different stages of your cycle, after a stressful month at work or when you are on vacation, can give you a lot of clues already. The key here is to listen and take notes. There are great natural remedies, like ashwagandha, seed cycling, reducing caffeine consumption, and decreasing stress, that help balance your hormones.”

    4. Dr. Janine Mahon 

    Meet the expert
    Dr. Janine Mahon
    Doctor of Chinese Medicine
    A visionary in women’s self-care, Dr. Janine Mahon is a nationally board-certified acupuncturist and herbalist (NCCAOM) and a licensed doctor of Chinese medicine. Dr. Mahon is the founder and creator her own line of restorative oils and elixirs formulated to help support a deeply-connected, intimate sense of wellbeing.

    “What we choose to think about greatly impacts our health (yes, it is easier said than done!). There are always things to worry about and we don’t want to deny those emotions. Taking a brief moment throughout the day and choosing to notice beauty in whatever form inspires you is key in transforming that energy to awaken your libido. Our Qi (life force energy) needs to be abundant and flowing smoothly for us to experience good health. When a person lives under constant stress and pressure from the feelings of worry, anger, and fear, our Qi starts to be consumed, which in turn depletes our sexual energy and libido. When this energy is drained, we do not have enough to feed our spirits and create joy.”

    5. Steph Morris

    Meet the expert
    Steph Morris
    Love, Sex & Relationship Coach and Breathwork Facilitator
    Steph Morris is a sex and relationship coach who works with women to experience the magic within their bodies and own who they are so that they can live a turned-on and turned-up life. She guides women to balance their masculine and feminine energies and unlock their sexual power so that they can feel more pleasure, have better orgasms, and create the intimate and loving relationship of their dreams.

    “By slowing down and bringing in different textures, flavors, smells, temperatures, speeds, and music, you allow yourself to get the mood warmed up, and your body slowly starts to open up. Engaging your senses and savoring in the experience gets you into your body and turned on before you’ve even moved into any sexual activity. This is essential for women as the average time it takes for a woman to warm up and get turned on is between 20 and 40 minutes. Your body has to be a full ‘yes’ before you move into any sexual stimulation, a very important factor in determining whether an orgasm occurs. Light a candle, play some sensual music, and get some essential oils and toys to weave in your senses and warm you up before getting sexual.”

    6. Lisa Bermudez

    Meet the expert
    Lisa Bermudez
    Yoga Teacher and Ayurveda Expert
    Lisa Bermudez is an Ayurvedic coach, yoga teacher, educator, writer, and skydiver. She has completed dozens of certifications across a wide scope of practices in yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and Reiki. Her credentials in Ayurveda include a 100 hour training from the Sister Science along with several other Ayurvedic coaching certifications.

    “If you’re operating from a place of love at all times, you’ll already be tapped into your self-care and you’ll also understand how important loving communication is.  The way you talk to yourself and to the people in your life directly reflects your quality of life.  When you’re loving and feeling loved, you’ll be more aligned with what you need to have a healthy libido and better orgasms.”

    What “Libido” Really Is
    and How You Can Tap Into Yours More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    Want to plan for NYE? Here’s 20 spectacular places to book in Dubai

    Looking to ring in 2023 in style? We’ve got you sorted.
    From Dubai’s breathtaking skyline views to an array of delectable dishes, this emirate is never short of venues to celebrate the occasion.
    With New Year’s Eve around the corner, it’s best to make your plans in advance and we’re here to narrow down all the potential venues to book ASAP.
    So, whether an intimate dinner with your loved ones or an all-out sophisticated fiesta, there is a myriad of options to ensure you make this moment a memorable one.
    However you wish to celebrate, we’re here to help you with a selection of sought-after venues that are preparing to ensure no stone is left unturned.
    PLAYA

    This iconic Peruvian venue will ensure a one-of-a-kind celebration by the beach. With exquisite signature cocktails and beautiful fireworks, guests can experience vibrant beats from DJ Miriam, Jenny & Dany Srouji with the famous mentalist Danny Blue who will conduct bedazzling mind games. The highlight of the evening will be an extravagant after-party from 2am until the early hours of the morning at Al Ittihad Park Monorail Station. This beach club will offer three packages with a minimum spend of Dhs1,200 at the restaurant, Dhs1,600 at the beach club and Dhs2,000 front row to witness Dubai’s Fireworks.
    For more information visit playadxb.com
    Sucre

    Take a trip to Argentina with Sucre’s charming interiors and delicious menu. Usher the new year with a black-tie gala as you enjoy festive meals including traditional favorites complete with all the trimmings for the perfect Night at Buenos Aires at Sucre. The fiesta will begin with a delicious dinner created by masterful Chef Fernando Trocca which comes as a bountiful spread of shared plates to be passed around the festive table amongst groups of friends and families with a minimum spend of Dhs800 per person from 7pm onwards. The evening will feature live entertainment and live performances with a Latin 6-piece band and resident DJ in the heart of DIFC.
    For more information visit surcredubai.com
    NYX at Gaia

    Gaia will host a magnificent NYX Gala, a glamorous red-carpet event to ring in the new year. NYX will take over Gaia’s radiant interiors, the entire venue will be transformed to reveal the dark red glamour and enigmatic ambience of the sophisticated speakeasy hidden downstairs. With a minimum spend of Dhs1,500, guests can dine from 8 pm onwards with a chic and sophisticated dress code. This inviting venue is located in Gate Village 4, in DIFC.
    For more information visit gaia-restaurants.com
    Piatti By The Beach

    Featuring an exquisite dining experience under the stars, accompanied by an exhilarating live DJ performance and glittering fireworks, guests are invited to join the memorable festivities and welcome the new year in style. The restaurant serves an indulgent selection Gnocchi with Lobster and King Crab Ragout, Beef Tenderloin and more. The indoor seating is priced at Dhs2,200 per person and outdoor is priced at Dhs2,700 inclusive of food, water, soft drinks and mocktails from 8pm to 3am at Raffles, The Palm.
    For more information visit rafflesthepalmdubai.com
    Kyma Beach

    To make it a night to remember, guests can experience the luxurious beachside experience at this newly opening venue situated in the heart of Palm West Beach. For a special night, guests can enjoy live entertainment with singers, musicians and DJ playing the grooviest hits. The dishes range from king crab salad to 24 karat chocolate millfeuille which are all crafted to perfection. The packages start at Dhs2,500 per person from 8pm onwards, inclusive of a sharing set menu and selected beverages.
    For more information visit kymabeach.ae
    Scalini

    This Italian haven invites guests to welcome 2023 with a celebration of one of the quitenseential ingredients in Italian cusine, the pomodoro. The restaurant pays humble homage to this precious ingredient by inviting diners to indulge in an exquisite menu inspired by traditional Neapolitan recipes. With no minimum spend guests can indulge in a feast with a variety of dishes at the Restaurant Village, Four Seasons Resort Jumeirah.
    For more information visit scalini-dubai.com
    Koko Bay

    Celebrate by the beach with scintillating views of Dubai’s skyline, this bohemian restaurant promises you a good time. The packages start from Dhs1,495 for soft beverages, Dhs1,995 for premium beverages and bubbly and Dhs495 for kids below nine years. Guests can also book a private cabana for Dhs10,000 for four guests.
    For more information visit kokobay.com
    Katsuya

    Experience a night of great Japanese cuisine, fire dancers, live music and mesmerizing views of the Burj Khalifa’s famous fireworks display at HYDE Hotel in Business bay. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy an unforgettable evening with friends and family in 2023 at this fine-dining venue starting at Dhs950 for indoor searing and Dhs1,450 for outdoor seating inclusive of house beverages from 8am to 12am.
    For more information visit sbe.com
    ONZE

    Kick-off the new year in an iconic setting at ONZE, the newly opened Nikkei restaurant, situated at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club. Blending the cultures and cuisines of Japan and Peru, ONZE will hit the high notes for the start of 2023. Indulge in ONZE’s menu filled with delectable starters, mains and desserts including freshly prepared dishes from the restaurant’s crudo bar. The packages start at Dhs1,500 for a minimum spend per person with special packages available for champagnes and spirits from 8pm to 3am.
    For more information visit onzerestaurant.com
    Shanghai Me

    Shanghai Me will be hosting an auspicious golden celebration. With stunning décor, the sophisticated restaurant will be transformed into a golden paradise for guests to revel. 8pm onwards, diners can enjoy a specially curated six-course menu of East-Asian delicacies blended with the restaurant’s traditions. To further fuel excitement, fun & laughter and promising a vivacious end to the year, dazzling guests are invited to dance the night away at Bund. Hidden behind the mirrored panellings at Shanghai Me, this under-the-radar speakeasy oozes old-world glamour, with its luxe interiors and sleek bar. The minimum spend will be notified upon booking and the festivities will take place from 8pm to 3am at Podium Level, Gate Village 11, DIFC.
    For more information visit shanghaime-restaurant.com
    SUSHISAMBA

    Get ready for the party of the year. For one night only, SUSHISAMBA will turn white with extravagant décor for the memorable occasion, as the city prepares to welcome 2023 in style with a Sambazonia-themed party. Guests are encouraged to dress in all white and can expect to embark on a multi-dimensional journey, right in the centre of Dubai whilst overlooking 360-degree views of the city’s iconic fireworks with a minimum spend of Dhs3,000 per person from 9pm until late,
    For more information visit sushisamba.com
    DREAM

    For a theatrical evening to bring in the new year, the enchanting dinner and show venue, DREAM Dubai is set to transport guests to a fairy tale world. The line-up will feature mesmerising new festive-themed shows to sweep you off your feet. The dynamic dancers will dazzle viewers with energetic dance sequences in tune with the festive soundtrack and musical performances. The glittery headpieces and glam costumes add to the intrigue of the special NYE show-stopping performances and a party from 8pm until late with a minimum spend starting at Dhs4,000 per person.
    For more information visit dreamdxb.com
    Ergo

    Book a night at Ergo for the aptly themed Pretense New Year’s Eve party, where everything is not quite as it seems. Entertainment for the night will feature mysterious elements reminiscent of Venetian masquerades, shadow dancers, grand decor, and secret rendezvouses, all along with a disruptive playlist. Guests can enjoy a night of free-flowing Ergo cocktails, bubbly, and premium house beverages, along with select bites from the borderless Mediterranean menu. The energetic vibe of the bar area spills out into the urban terrace space with views of the bustling Downtown District to end the night. With a minimum spend of Dhs1,500 per person from the NYE à la carte menu, guests can spend the evening from 7pm until late.
    For more information visit ergodubai.com
    LPM

    To ring in the new year this Parisian haven is hosting a New Year’s Eve special with an evening inspired by La Folie Douce, the well-known after-ski parties in the French Alps. Guests will be able to enjoy the à la carte menu with a minimum spend of Dhs1,200 excluding drinks. The evening will begin from 6pm and will stay open until late for everyone to celebrate. The restaurant is located at Gate Village 8, DIFC.
    For more information visit lpmrestaurants.com
    Fi’lia

    To match the splendid views of the Burj Khalifa fireworks, Fi’lia welcomes in the New Year with its stunning setting and free-flowing beverages to toast to 2023. World-class culinary delights created as an ode to hearty Italian dishes await on the special New Year’s menu. From lemon risotto to steak tartare guests can indulge in a splendour of flavours throughout the evening through a four-course family style set menu from 7pm to 9pm with the price at Dhs599 per person for indoors and Dhs750 per person for outdoors without beverages and from 9:30pm until late for Dhs1,800 for indoors, Dhs1,999 for window, Dhs2,500 for outdoor and Dhs2,700 for outdoor window with three hours of free-flowing beverages. The evening is filled with exciting entertainment activities. A renowned and breathtaking ensemble of masquerade dancers and a live jazz band will serenade the guests with exciting performances at SLS hotel and residences.
    For more information visit sbe.com
    Alaya

    Make your New Year’s Eve a joyous one at DIFC’s latest Middle Eastern hotspot. For a glamorous affiar, guests can indulge in an exquisite selection of Mediterranean classics and an abundance of fragrant herbs and spices that The East and West bring together, Alaya’s exceptional menu translates the influences of the rich culinary landscape with a contemporary approach. Alongside delectable dishes, guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and celebratory bubbles. At the stroke of midnight, the festivities continue at the glamorous, Bedouin-inspired speakeasy, LY-LA. Tucked away behind a concealed door beneath the restaurant Minimum spend is mentioned on booking and the celebrations take place from 7pm to 3pm in Gate Village, Building 4, DIFC.
    For more information visit alaya-dubai.com
    Chic Nonna

    This sophisticated fine-dining restaurant will offer a tailor-made a la carte menu at the restaurant Salotto and the terrace. A Studio 54-inspired evening, ‘Le Freak C’est Chic” will dress the lounge up in disco and sparkles. Guests are expected to deck themselves out as their most glamorous selves to celebrate the new year in style. Groovy vibes will be articulated through the lavish décor that will be employed, transforming Salotto into a classy, speakeasy-style hotspot and transporting guests into the glam era of discothèque. Toast to new beginnings with delectable dining and exceptional entertainment at this osteria. Family-friendly dinner reservations are available at Chic Nonna’s main dining area and require an advanced payment of the minimum spend with prices starting at Dhs1,200
    For more information visit chicnonna.com
    The Nice Guy

    Guests can spend their evening at the newly opened patio and terrace, the main dining area, or an intimate lounge, all of which pay homage to the decadent era of Mafia bars and restaurants. The terrace packages start at Dhs2,000 basic for aparkling and DHs3,000 Premium for bubbles from 8pm to midnight and 12pm to 3am for a la carte drinks with live entertainment. The main dining area packages start at Dhs2,000 basic for sparkling and Dhs3,000 premium for bubbles from 11:30 p.m. onwards. A minimum spend is required per table for drinks only per table from 11pm until closing with walk-ins at Dhs500 at the entrance, and then a la carte drinks at the main dining area.
    For more information visit hwoodgroup.com
    Cove Beach

    For an exclusive gala dinner amid the beach, this enticing venue is sure to make the evening special. There’s a choice of two different experiences to bid adieu to 2022 at Cove Beach. Guests can either indulge in an exquisite gala dinner boasting an extravagant selection of culinary delicacies such as Wagyu Ribeye and Grilled Lobster while enjoying live music from a star-studded five-piece band priced at Dhs1,200 per person or party the night away at the buzzing beach club NYE party, in collaboration with LUV Events, showcasing a brilliant line-up of DJ’s including DJ Scottie-B, DJ Devon Kosoko, DJ Mitchel and DJ Sir Taz priced at Dhs699 per persona at Caesars Palace Hotel.
    For more information visit caesars.com
    Basko

    Time to celebrate and bring in the New Year at Basko with live music andretro disco DJ thereafter. 360 paparazzi waiting, guests can expect a glamorous entrance into the New Year at the one and only Basko Dubai and stunning views of Burj Khalifa fireworks. The first seating packages don’t require any minimum spend and take place from 7pm to 9pm The packages for outdoors are priced at Dhs1,200 per person and indoor is Dhs990 per person from 9pm to 4am for the second seating and it is located in Business Bay. For the after-party celebrations, guests can head to the hidden speakeasy, Suave.
    For more information visit baskorestaurant.com
    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Emirates Woman December 2020 cover shoot More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    The best desert cafés in the UAE to visit this winter

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    1 day ago

    At long last, the best weather of the year has arrived in the UAE.
    Long gone are humid days and nights paired with the sweltering heat and the cooler temperatures and outdoor weather is here to stay for the foreseeable future.
    With that comes the return of the UAE’s beloved desert cafés and concepts.
    To keep you in the know here’s some of the best desert cafés to visit in the UAE this winter.
    NOT a SPACE

    This one-of-a-kind destination is curated with a series of activations in one venue. With the beautiful sunrise and sunset views, this winter experience is designed to bring friends and family together in the company of Sharjah’s Al Faya desert. With a creative set-up and mountainous backdrops, this open-air experience also conducts several activations to celebrate different occasions in an open space. From a ladies parlour to a men’s barber, there are a host of experiences to savour on your visit.
    For more information visit notaspace.ae
    One Degree Cafe

    With a quirky bohemian charm, One Degree Café is the latest off-the-grid pop-up for guests to retreat amid the dreamy desert sunsets. Designed with a Bedouin-style camp and as a pop-up experience, guests can enjoy all the dune views in the middle of the desert. Made for the perfect escape, this outdoor venue offers a plethora of delicious dishes and beverages from Spanish lattes to desserts such as tiramisu. The mains include signature dishes such as the classic hot dog and the wagyu burger, with many more options on the menu. Located in Musherief, Ajman, this desert pop-up is situated 45 minutes away from Downtown Dubai. Visitors can approach the venues by following the map here.
    For more information visit onedegree.ae. 
    Link by Mara

    With international fusion street food and a scintillating majlis-style seating area with fairy lights, guests can lay back with the socially distanced seating arrangements for utmost safety. With a plethora of mouthwatering desserts and must-have beverages, this spot has a private bonfire option in an intimate setting to enjoy with all your loved ones.
    My Space

    Brand new to the desert concept scene, My Space Cafe delivers an exceptional experience in Nazwa, Sharjah. The concept plays host to a simple yet delectable menu comprising of burgers and pasta dishes, as well as coffee and soft drinks and sweet treats. Located in the Sharjhah desert, My Space Cafe is open daily from 3pm to 1am.
    BBQ Station

    Located in the Sharjah desert in the area of Al Rahmaniya, the newest desert concept to enter the scene is BBQ Station. Complete with tipi-style seating areas and a diverse menu, it’s the perfect winter spot to watch the sunset and nightfall over the desert.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    12 luxe festive gifts for the man in your life

    Emirates Man

    by Dan Robinson
    2 hours ago

    With just a few days left for festive shopping, you might be thinking about what to gift the man in your life, be it the family, friend or partner.
    Emirates Man has done the legwork for you selecting the ultimate luxe gifts that will compliment the stylish man in your life and last a lifetime.

    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Saudi Arabia officially bans the abaya in exam halls

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    Saudi Arabia has seen numerous changes in the last few years, from opening cinemas to women being granted the right to drive.
    All female students will now need to abide by school uniform regulations during the examination period, by still adhering to the decency regulations for clothing.
    As per the latest announcement by the Saudi Education and Training Evaluation Commission (ETEC) along with the Ministry of Education, female students will no longer be allowed to wear the abaya in exam halls.
    This government organization is responsible for the planning, evaluation, assessment and accreditation of educational and training systems in the Kingdom.

    Previously in 2018, an announcement pertaining to the abaya no longer being legally enforced for women in the country, however, they have still continued to wear them until now.
    The reformation comes to keep in line with the nation’s 2030 vision that promotes women as an important part of the Kingdom’s strength. It aims to develop their talents, invest their energies, and provide them with the right opportunities to build their futures, contributing to the development of society.
    Other changes
    In recent times, more Saudi females have been appointed to top jobs, women are allowed to use government services without a male guardian’s consent, permits for the go-ahead of women’s gyms have been granted and women are able to secure driving licenses the news of which has been celebrated globally.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Pexels @thirdman More

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    in health and weelbeing

    A Therapist Answers 6 of Your Questions Around Feeling Lonely at Christmas

    Whatever your typical set-up around December the 25th – perhaps a chunky get-together with the extended family, a little celebration with a few key friends and fizz or a firmly ‘non-traditional’ takeaway from your local Chinese restaurant, Christmas can feel a little strained and sometimes lonely.

    The festive period is a core cause of the feeling, even though we’re allowed to all be together again this year, after the global pandemic. While covid might be largely gone, loneliness manifests in different ways, pandemic or not.

    To help you through, WH asked leading psychotherapist and author of This Too Shall Pass, Julia Samuel, to respond to some of your questions, musings and comments on feeling alone, this Christmas.

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    How should I deal with Christmas loneliness?

    But first, there is some universal advice to root yourself in. Regardless of your situation, the below is likely to be a tonic, to some degree, in this bizarre time.

    Keep a routine

    ‘It helps to have regular routines that you can rely on that give you some certainty, so it might be structural routine of exercise before breakfast, or meditate after work,’ says Samuel.

    Just breathe

    ‘Both exercise and any breathing technique also reduce the anxiety caused by uncertainty, so you get double benefit. Intentionally choosing to do things that give you joy also helps manage uncertainty, so it might be listening to wonderful music as you cook.’

    Know what you can control

    ‘Recognising and jotting down the things you can change and influence and those you can’t is worth sticking on your fridge door,’ Samuel details.

    Remember that, even amid wild uncertainty, you are in control of some aspects of your life. ‘It is important to be proactive, make times for online connection and if possible real connection through walks together, even taking hot drinks that you can stop and drink together,’ she adds.

    ‘We need connection to others more than anything else. People need people and love in every form is vital medicine right now, we have to commit and work to have it, not wait for someone else to connect with us.’

    Scroll on for her response to WH readers who are feeling a little stuck, sad or solitary, at this time.

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    6 of your Christmas loneliness questions, answered

    1. ‘I feel sick about Christmas! I am alone and dreading seeing people with their families on Instagram. What should I do?’

    ‘I can understand that living alone is heightened over Christmas when you both imagine and see on Instagram families being together,’ says Samuel. ‘I wonder if you might contact an organisation that connects people in communities, young and old online and in person.

    ‘Another thing to note is that using our skill and agency to make something through painting or any kind of craft gives us both purpose and satisfaction, there are also many online craft meet-ups that you can join to discuss your area of interest.’

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    2. ‘I am struggling with uncertainty. It looks as if Christmas will be very miserable this year and there’s a shortage of money through no work…’

    ‘The uncertainty and shortage of money make celebrating anything worrying. I wonder if you can schedule virtual meet-up with, say, four good friends to wish each other a happy Christmas.

    ‘I have been pleasantly surprised how meeting with a small number of close friends can feel intimate and enriching.’

    3. ‘My main concern is my 94-year-old mom, who lives alone, abroad. My sister is nearby and sees her a couple of times a day, but if there’s a bad snowstorm, she might not see anyone.’

    ‘I imagine not being with your mom on Christmas day is particularly hard, when the number of Christmases you are likely to have together in the future is uncertain.

    ‘Could you perhaps create a Plan B for your mother if there is a snowstorm – does she have a next door neighbour who she could ring and would agree to drop in, and could you agree a time you will telephone each other on Christmas day whatever the weather?

    ‘I would write and send her a card with a message of all that you feel about her, and memories of your happy Christmases of the past that she could open on Christmas Day.’

    4. ‘I lost my mom four years ago and she made Christmas magical. It’s not ever been the same again.’

    ‘Having memories of those very Happy Christmases with your beloved mom must be bittersweet.

    ‘I would create an annual Christmas ritual which reflects your mom and your love of her, maybe light a candle with flowers and a photograph of her that you can turn to at particular times or do something that connects you to her over Christmas.

    ‘Touchstones to memory are a way of expressing the love of the person who has died, for our love for them never dies.’

    5. ‘I think I will get depressed as I alone am expected to carry out all household chores. I used to have my friends as support, but, because I’ve not been in touch with them regularly through lockdown, they have left me.’

    ‘I can hear how hurt you are not being in touch with your friends, but I would suggest you draw on your courage and contact them and agree to reconnect. I am sure they would welcome hearing from you as they might well be feeling left and lonely too.

    ‘Partly it is about just daring, taking the leap to text or call and it is also cognitively recognising that the feeling of fear doesn’t in anyway match the reality of fear – feelings are not facts.

    ‘The worst that can happen is the status quo, they don’t respond, so you have lost nothing and may gain a friend so it is definitely worth the jump.’

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    6. ‘I have no family anyway and I think Christmas is over-amped as a time of togetherness – and that itself is the key cause of the seasonal loneliness.’

    ‘I wonder if you would find some sense of enrichment over a time that feels over-amped by volunteering on Christmas Day or around it? Helping others is both good for those that receive but also the giver.’

    *This article was originally published on Women’s Health UK More