Raphael Stevens

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    An Ayurvedic Expert Recommends These Tips To Reduce Anxiety This Season

    Whether your family has practiced it your whole life or you’ve dabbled in a little tongue scraping here and a little yoga there, most of us have at least heard of Ayurveda. The ancient natural system of medicine (dating back more than 5,000 years) is a holistic mind-body-spirit approach to health and wellbeing, providing tools to live your best life physically, mentally, and spiritually. Consider it the OG of wellness practices. Based on the foundation that each person has a unique combination of the three Ayurvedic doshas (AKA health types or energy patterns)—vata, pitta, and kapha—the goal of Ayurveda is to strike the right balance of each element to achieve optimal health.
    If you’ve been feeling sad, scattered, or more anxious than usual, Ayurveda has an answer for that too. Fall is considered to be vata season, and is known as a time of heightened anxiety since vata is most susceptible to the ups and downs of life. The good news? Shrankhla Holecek, an ayurvedic expert and Founder of UMA Oils, let us in on Ayurvedic anxiety tips that can help reduce stress holistically—through diet, exercise, and transformative self-care rituals. It’s time to restore.  

    Meet the expert
    Shrankhla Holecek
    Ayurvedic Expert and Founder of UMA Oils
    Raised in India, Shrankhla Holecek has been immersed in the knowledge and cultural traditions of Ayurveda and holistic medicine since birth. As world-renowned expert on Ayurveda, organic skin care, and holistic health, she has been interviewed and featured in dozens of multimedia platforms. In 2016, Holecek founded UMA Oils, a luxury Ayurvedic skincare company.

    1. Maintain a daily schedule
    A change in season calls for updated routines to maintain balance and alignment with nature. And because vata‘s stability can be offset by disorganized scheduling and lack of sleep, Holecek suggested penciling in extra downtime and getting solid Zzzs. Not getting optimal sleep is known to affect mood and emotional health, which may worsen anxiety, after all. So you know the drill: Follow a consistent sleep schedule, get eight hours of sleep, and establish a wind-down routine. “Rubbing your feet with oil at night, especially one infused with relaxation-inducing botanicals, can support your body and make the day to night transition more seamless, setting you up for a night of uninterrupted rest,” Holecek said. 
    As for your morning routine, try out various practices to identify what your body is craving right now. From meditating and tongue scraping to drinking warm lemon water and dry brushing, there are many Ayurvedic rituals that are beneficial for morning time. However, adding too much to your daily routine all at once can cause more stress than anything, so start slow. No matter how you choose to spend the beginning of your day, being in tune with your mind and body is key. For example, if you feel most energized and motivated in the early afternoon, don’t force yourself to get in a workout or check off difficult tasks. Wake up slowly, fit in some time for enjoyment, and save your workouts and difficult tasks for the afternoon. 
     
    2. Get some sun
    According to Holecek, getting some sunlight can help keep your stress levels in check. The bad news: With fewer hours of daylight and cloudy forecasts (read: less sun exposure) on top of vata‘s characteristics, we’re more prone to anxiety in the fall and winter. Ayurveda to the rescue. The system of medicine also offers a daily schedule, or when to do certain activities based on energies throughout the day. Especially in fall or winter, it is recommended to wake up with the sun for more time to get exposure to sunlight. So resist the urge to snooze when your alarm goes off, and get sunlight within an hour after waking up. 
    Still not convinced? Soaking in the sun’s rays has been found to increase the calming and mood-boosting hormone serotonin and can help you get the best sleep of your life. Bottom line: Treat your mind and body to more sunlight on the reg, whether that looks like walking around the block, downward-dogging at the park, or sipping your warm lemon water outside. 
     

    3. Move your body
    With the transition to colder weather comes changes in the body, and for good reason. “Ayurveda honors change—internally within ourselves and externally within in our environment,” Holecek said. “This time of year shares many qualities that distinguish Vata: cold, dry, rough, mobile.” To balance out Vata‘s energy, stick with light, calm, and heat-generating exercises, like hot yoga, Pilates, or brisk walking. Getting your heart pumping changes your brain chemistry, increasing anti-anxiety neurochemicals, like serotonin. 
    “Regular, gentle exercise controls the movable character of Vata,” Holecek explained. “Include basic seated forward-folds like Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend) in your practice. To increase strength and stability, try experimenting with standing positions like Virabhadrasana II (Warrior Pose II).” As always, pay attention to your body’s cues, and lean on restorative poses or stretching if you’re feeling worn out or overstimulated.
     
    4. Switch up your diet
    Heads up: Only hot PSLs are welcome. With the cold, dry vata vibes, shifting our eating habits to primarily warm, grounding foods and drinks and in-season produce is ideal. We’ve all heard the saying, “Food is medicine,” and eating seasonally takes it a step further by creating a greater sense of harmony and balance with our environment. The result? It can help us be more adaptable to change and practice mindfulness, which counteracts rumination and worrying (more on that to come). “Lean toward oily, moist, and smooth foods,” Holecek recommended. “Add healthy fats and oils to dishes, such as avocado, coconut, olives, buttermilk, cheese, eggs, whole milk, nuts, seeds, berries, melons, squash, zucchini, and yogurt.” Reach for cooked whole grains, root vegetables (think: sweet potatoes, carrots, and turnips), and hearty soups. Save the cold foods, iced bevvies, and dry snacks for the summertime. 
    Also, don’t pass on the digestion and mental health-enhancing effects of Ayurvedic herbs. “Adaptogenic herbs like Ashwagandha and Brahmi are particularly helpful in Vata season as they help balance an overactive mind and empower the body’s natural stress management responses,” Holecek said. Add them to baked goods, oatmeal, or your morning cup of coffee. Lastly, taking notes from hack #1, set a consistent time for your breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and avoid heavy meals at dinner to prevent disruptions in your sleep patterns.  
     
    5. Practice mindfulness
    In our fast-paced, hustle culture, we’re either going full speed ahead or on autopilot. So how do we focus our attention on present experiences and become more aware of our sensations, thoughts, and feelings without judgment? “Joy and calmness happen when you turn your attention away from problems and instead concentrate on tangible things that you can experience with your senses (sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste),” Holecek said. In other words, mindfulness aids in reducing anxiety and depression by teaching us how to respond to stress with awareness of what is happening in the present moment.
    Aside from breathing exercises, meditation, and movement, Holecek pointed to warm oils to help bring us back to the present moment. “Oils can be powerful allies in supporting your mindfulness practice through the olfactory and transdermal benefits of their powerful ingredients. A tactile element such as aroma can be a wonderful reminder of your commitment to remain grounded and balanced throughout the day.” Keep essential oils on hand throughout the day for a quick sniff or rub on temples to bring little moments of mindfulness into your day.

    6. Listen to your skin
    It’s time to layer more than just our clothing. This time of year, the skin needs additional support to stay hydrated and nourished because, as Holecek explained, “Vata skin tends to be dry, darker, and cooler to the touch with a tendency for roughness.” Think of your skin as the check engine light to your internal health. When your skin glows, chances are your emotional well-being is on a par with it. And, ICYMI, taking care of your skin is a form of self-care, and going through the steps of your skincare routine can dramatically reduce stress levels. How’s that for a win-win? 
    That’s not to say you need to overhaul your entire skincare routine—a few minor adjustments will do the trick. “Keep the body and skin hydrated from within by drinking plenty of water,” Holecek suggested. As for ingredients and products to look out for? “Nourish from the outside [in] with gentle cleansers that won’t strip, aloe and rosewater-based toners, and nurturing oils that maintain an effective moisture barrier,” she said. “Rose oil is excellent at hydrating and nurturing dry or maturing skin, while Frankincense essential oil works at the cellular level to promote cellular regeneration necessary for battling fine lines. Pomegranate oil, rich in fatty acids, restores firmness and elasticity.” 

    7. Implement self-massage

    When it comes to Ayurvedic self-care, self-massage reigns supreme, especially in the fall, as an effective vata-pacifying method. “Loving, generous, Ayurvedic self-massage, also known as Abhyanga, is one of the most beneficial exercises for our well-being,” Holecek affirmed. “It grounds us and allows for a moment to appreciate the body and mind. When doing so in a deliberate, therapeutic way, it can help to increase circulation, reduce inflammation, boost longevity, and clear any bodily obstructions, including stagnation, heaviness, and blockages.” A recent clinical trial studying the effects of self-massage echoed Holecek’s sentiments, proving Abhyanga to be an effective way to decrease stress levels, improve quality of sleep, and enhance one’s overall quality of life.

    To give self-massage a go, Holecek suggested using warm sesame or mustard oil during the fall and winter months for their deep-tissue-de-stressing and mind-body-wellness-promoting properties. Start by rubbing the warm oil between your hands, then massage it into your scalp. Next, move from your face down to your feet, using circular movements along your joints and bones. Check out this video tutorial for more details on the technique. 

    7 Health Tips Ayurveda Taught Me That Changed My Life More

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    What Is The Likeability Trap, And How Can We Overcome It To Succeed At Work?

    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.

    Have you ever been told “Be assertive, but don’t be a bitch,” “Be a leader, but don’t be bossy,” “Be nice, but not too nice,” “You have a resting bitch face,” or “You seem like a pushover.” It’s a phenomenon that happens all too often: women put forward smart ideas and strong leadership skills, and are met with judgement about superficial traits related to their likability. Alicia Menendez, MSNBC host and this week’s guest on The Everygirl Podcast, names this phenomenon in her book, The Likeability Trap.
    Being a woman in the workplace–especially in a leadership position–can feel like being constantly criticized for your metaphorical pantsuits when you’re actually saying pretty brilliant stuff. And whether it’s in the workplace or not, many of us are wired to want to be liked, just to find its an impossible feat. So what exactly is the likability trap, and what can we do to get out of it? Read on for Menendez’s advice for staying true to yourself in the workplace, and listen to this week’s episode of The Everygirl Podcast for more.

    What is the likeability trap?
    According to Menendez, the likeability trap doesn’t just refer to one single experience: in fact, she says women are likely to encounter three different kinds of likeability traps in their daily lives. The first is what she refers to as “the Goldilocks conundrum.” This means that women in leadership positions are often perceived as “never quite right”—that is, many female leaders are accused of being too warm, too welcoming, or too feminine, or, on the other side of the spectrum, too strong or too aggressive. In The Likeability Trap and on The Everygirl Podcast, Menendez highlights the fact that societal expectations for women are often quite different than the traits that are expected of a leader.
    The second kind of likeability trap that Menendez identifies is something that has come up more recently, which is a constant call for authenticity. The problem with demanding authenticity is that, in the workplace especially, women are often asked to conform to so many variable traits already. “Sometimes it feels like being truly authentically ourselves runs the risk that people won’t see us as the leaders that we are,” Menendez said.
    The third and final likeability trap is the ambition/likeability penalty, where women are actively labeled as less likable because they outwardly seek success. Menendez credits Sheryl Sandberg, author of Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead for bringing this idea into the mainstream; it means that the more successful a woman becomes, the less people like her. In moments when a man might be labeled as a go-getter, women are often thought of as overly competitive. On The Everygirl Podcast, Menendez emphasizes that these three traps are all never-ending choices that women in the workplace have to make: between being warm or strong, a leader or authentic, ambitious or likable.

    3 tips to overcoming the likeability trap for a more fulfilling career
    1. Remember that the most important thing is whether you like them, not whether they like you
    Just like with dating, it’s important to focus on how you feel, not how they might feel about you. How do you feel after you receive feedback from someone in your workplace? Do you feel empowered and excited to take a second shot at a project, or do you feel discouraged? These emotions matter and are valid, no matter what the feedback may be. Just like you wouldn’t keep giving chances to a romantic partner who was making you feel bad about yourself, there’s no reason to stick with a boss who doesn’t see your potential and inherent value. Surrounding yourself with people who make you feel comfortable expressing your core interests and existing as your truest self, both inside and outside the workplace, can liberate you from feeling like you have to conform to someone else’s expectations.

    2. Be selective about the feedback you internalize, and don’t be afraid to push back
    Unfortunately, there is a web of expectations created by men in the workplace that overlays all of the interactions that women have at work. For women of color in particular, the possibility of being accused of being “bossy” or “aggressive” when simply acting with the normal assertiveness of a good leader is high. On The Everygirl Podcast, Menendez urges women to question subjective feedback, especially if it is coded in language that is historically sexist or racist. “If you sit down with someone in a feedback session and they say, ‘You’re just too assertive,’ you should say, ‘Thank you so much for that feedback. Assertive compared to whom?’” Menendez recommended. Opening a line of active questioning about subjective feedback can crumble the argument of someone who is criticizing your likeability.

    3. Remember that different leadership styles are always of value in a single workplace
    Sometimes feedback is just feedback, and it might have to do with someone’s perception of your leadership style rather than their internal biases. Regardless, ensuring that you are not constantly catering to likeability means reminding yourself that if everyone was the same kind of leader, nothing would get done. If you do things a certain way and someone at your workplace is having a hard time grasping your leadership style, that does not necessarily mean that you have to change. Thinking about how the feedback is structured, whether or not you have actually worked with the person who is giving you feedback, and consulting colleagues on any criticism you may receive is always great practice when considering whether or not to take certain comments to heart. More

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    Tiffany Trump to wed Lebanese ‘billionaire heir’ fiancé this weekend

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    4 hours ago

    Donald Trump’s youngest daughter, Tiffany Trump, is set to wed her fiance Michael Boulos this weekend.
    According to reports, the couple will tie the knot this weekend at the former US president’s lavish Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm West Beach Florida with over 500 guests set to attend.
    Over the weekend, the bride-to-be’s elder sister, Ivanka Trump, share a photograph with Tiffany on social media revealing they were in Florida celebrating her bridal shower.
    “Back in Florida, celebrating my beautiful, brilliant and kind sister @tiffanytrump at her bridal shower,” she said.

    Tiffany Trump’s engagement
    Tiffany and Boulos have been engaged for nearly two years. Boulos, who was born in Lebanon and raised in Nigeria, popped the question in January 2021 during former President Trump’s last week in office.

    Trump’s daughter posted a photo of herself and Boulos in the White House to announce her engagement, also showcasing her diamond ring which, according to the Daily Mail, was designed by jeweller Samer Halimeh and is worth $1.2 million (Dhs4.4 million).
    “It has been an honour to celebrate many milestones, historic occasions and create memories with my family here at the White House, none more special than my engagement to my amazing fiancé Michael! Feeling blessed and excited for the next chapter!” she captioned the photo.
    Relationship timeline
    As for how the pair met, they were introduced to one another in Greece in the summer of 2018 at Dubai-based Lindsay Lohan’s club in Mykonos.

    The couple were then first seen publicly together at New York Fashion Week that same year.
    Who is Michael Boulos?
    Boulos is of Lebanese and French descent but grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, where his father, Massad runs Boulos Enterprises and is the CEO of SCOA Nigeria. The 25-year-old has been described as a “billionaire heir” by Vanity Fair.
    Boulos eventually moved from Lagos to London to complete his undergraduate degree.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram More

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    From LA to Dubai: The Nice Guy lands in DIFC

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    1 hour ago

    With a never-ending A-list celebrity guestlist including Gigi Hadid, Justin and Hailey Bieber, Kylie Jenner, Kendall Jenner, Nicki Minaj and more, The Nice Guy has opened its first-ever venue outside of Los Angeles right here in Dubai.
    Launched in partnership with MKIA Hospitality, the group’s managing partner and co-founder, Mohammad Irshaid discusses what The Nice Guy has in store for its Dubai debut.
    Talk us through your career.
    It all started at the age of 21 when I travelled to New York to license the brand Sugar Factory, I did my training in NY, LA and Las Vegas, and a year later franchised Dum Dum Doughnuts from London. In between, I consulted for brands such as Bora Bora Juice Kuwait and Pizza Factory DIFC on menu development, brand concept creations and many more. Then around two years ago, the idea of The Nice Guy was presented and here we are.
    Where does your love for food come from?
    Throughout my childhood, I spent a lot of time in the kitchen with my mother, who is an amazing cook and would constantly be experimenting in the kitchen. From prepping lunches and dinner gatherings to late-night snacks. Other than being physically present in the kitchen I had a natural curiosity about the process of cooking and how flavours came together. This established the foundation of my passion for food and beverage.

    You’ve just opened the iconic LA hotspot The Nice Guy in Dubai. How long has this been in the works? Why Dubai?
    We started the conversations around two years ago during COVID-19. Dubai is home and is an emerging F&B hub of the world. Yet with everything around, I still felt there was a gap that The Nice Guy could fill. A place with an old school ambience, a good Italian vibe, great music and most importantly, a place to meet and connect with like-minded individuals.
    Talk us through the concept of The Nice Guy.
    The Nice Guy Dubai will follow suit of its LA predecessor as a highly sought-after, reservations-only destination, complete with a world-class lineup of classic Italian cuisine offerings for lunch and dinner, including signature menu items and crafted cocktails. In true The Nice Guy fashion, dining hours seamlessly transition into a nightlife backdrop with regularly programmed live entertainment and DJ sets.
    What are the hero dishes at The Nice Guy?
    Diners can expect distinctly Italian plates with a unique LA spin such as the kale salad, cacio e pepe, Margherita pizza. I would say that the meatballs and lobster pizza are the must-try dishes. We also developed special dishes and versions of dishes for the Dubai location that aren’t available in LA such as beef carpaccio and burrata salad.
    What sets the F&B industry in Dubai apart from the rest of the world?
    Dubai is a cosmopolitan melting pot of multinationals that come from all over the world to live in this city. Having people from all over the world based here creates a natural and constant demand for all types of local concepts and franchises to open and do so well here.
    What are your hopes for The Nice Guy Dubai in 2022 and beyond?
    My hope is for The Nice Guy to be an essential spot for anyone living in Dubai, but also for all the visitors. Our plan is for The Nice Guy to be a landmark spot in the region and to constantly give our customers what they want.
    November’s – The Collectors Issue – 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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    10 countries Sheikh Hamdan has visited

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    5 hours ago

    With travelling back on the radar again, there’s no better source of inspiration than His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai.
    From mountainous regions to adrenaline-fueled spots, Fazza’s travels around the world exude his passion for exploration and adventure.
    After digging through the archives, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the potential places to add to your bucket list from Sheikh Hamdan’s feed.
    United Kingdom

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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    in health and weelbeing

    How to Choose High-Quality Vitamins and Supplements

    There are a lot of different multivitamins available, and not all of them are created equally. Before choosing a multivitamin, you should do your research to ensure that the one you pick is the one that will benefit you the most. Ask yourself these four questions the next time you go shopping for a multivitamin.
     1. Does it offer a complete range of vitamins and vital minerals?
    Multivitamins are designed to help you reach the daily recommended intake of the several micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) that your body needs to function at its best.¹
    Studies have shown that the majority of us are unable to do this through diet alone, taking a multivitamin is a beneficial  supplement.¹
    Whether you need a daily pick-me-up or nutrient replenishment, taking a comprehensive multivitamin will go a long way toward helping you obtain sufficient levels of micronutrients in your diet.
    Remember, when shopping for a multivitamin, it’s crucial to find one that offers you, the things you need.
    A high-quality multivitamin offers a complete range of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, D, E, K,B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, B6, and B12).²
    A multivitamin should also include a broad range of minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron, iodine, selenium, copper, manganese, molybdenum, and chromium.³
    Understanding the jumble of letters, figures, and micrograms relating to multivitamins can be exhausting. Fortunately, once you learn how to read labels, buying a multivitamin becomes simple. Supplement labels list ingredients in ascending order of predominance. Steer clear of multivitamins that contain a long list of additives.
     2. Is it stimulant-free?
    High-quality multivitamins should be free of stimulants.  Stimulants may cause health symptoms such as depression, diarrhoea, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating.⁴
    3. Does it have the appropriate daily values of ingredients?
    If you’ve chosen a multivitamin tablet with the required recommended daily allowance, you know you’ve made a great choice. Be sure to examine the ingredients in other supplements you are taking to prevent excessive intake of nutrients.⁵
    4. Does it offer a complete solution?
    In recent decades, the use of nutritional supplements has rapidly increased.6 One-third of adults and half of the population (⟩55 years of age) report taking at least one supplement per day.⁶
    Multivitamins come in a wide variety of formulations and forms. The key to getting all the benefits from your multivitamin is ensuring you’re buying a good quality one and taking it daily. 
    Whether you want to support your brain health, relieve stress and anxiety, or just rev up your energy, staminaand immunity, BIOPLUS® VIT-ALITY DAILY NUTRI-PACK⁷ offers a complete solution.

    Get All The Essentials You Need In One Daily Dose!  
    Not sure which supplements to take? Leading pharmaceutical company Adcock Ingram (Pty) Ltd have a daily vitamin and mineral supplement range, BIOPLUS® VIT-ALITY.

    Consider BIOPLUS® VIT-ALITY DAILY NUTRI-PACK⁷. Complete from a-z, BIOPLUS VIT-ALITY DAILY NUTRI-PACK is a health supplement in a conveniently packaged blister designed to provide you with a daily dose of antioxidants, omega 3, probiotics, vitamins and minerals.⁷
    The BIOPLUS® VIT-ALITY range is available at selected Dis-Chem and Clicks stores, as well as selected independent pharmacies nationwide. For more information, visit: https://www.adcock.co.za/ProdVitamins/Bioplus and join the conversation on Facebook.
    *In Partnership with Adcock Ingram (Pty) Ltd
    2022102810238696
    References:
    1. National Institutes of Health. Multivitamin/mineral Supplements. Available at: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/MVMS-Consumer/. Last accessed September 2022.
    2. Liebman B. What should your multivitamin contain? Centre for Science in the Public Interest. Available at:https://www.cspinet.org/article/what-should-your-multivitamin-contain. Last accessed October 2022.
    3. Cleveland Clinic. 9 Vitamins and Minerals You Should Take Daily. Available at: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/which-vitamins-should-you-take/. Last accessed September 2022.
    4. Vo K, Neafsey PJ, Lin CA. Concurrent use of amphetamine stimulants and antidepressants by undergraduate students. Patient Prefer Adherence. 2015 Jan 22;9:161-72. doi: 10.2147/PPA.S74602. PMID: 25653508; PMCID: PMC4309786. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4309786/. Last accessed October 2022.
    5. Blumberg JB, Bailey RL, Sesso HD, Ulrich CM. The evolving role of multivitamin/multimineral supplement use among adults in the age of personalized nutrition. Nutrients. 2018 Feb 22;10(2):248. doi: 10.3390/nu10020248. PMID: 29470410; PMCID: PMC5852824. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29470410/. Last accessed October 2022.
    6. Hamishehkar H, Ranjdoost F, Asgharian P, Mahmoodpoor A, Sanaie S. Vitamins, are they safe? Adv Pharm Bull. 2016 Dec;6(4):467-477. doi: 10.15171/apb.2016.061.  Epub 2016 Dec 22. PMID: 28101454; PMCID: PMC5241405. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5241405/. Last access October 2022.
    7. Bioplus® Vit-Ality Daily Nutri-Pack capsules package insert. Adcock Ingram.  More

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    7 All-Natural Ways to Up Your Libido That You Haven’t Tried Yet

    Let’s face it: We can’t expect to always have a sex drive in high gear, and it takes more than just cueing Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On” to rev it up. First things first, it’s normal and common to experience ebbs and flows in your libido. But we all deserve to reap the benefits of sexual pleasure—I’m talking less anxiety, better sleep, relief from headaches, and more. So while you can’t change your libido with the snap of a finger, there are natural remedies that can help take your sexual desire from womp womp to bow-chicka-wow-wow. Read on for seven ways to get you in the mood. The best part? There’s nothing fake about them, including the “Big O” they’ll likely lead to. 

    Add an adaptogen supplement to your routine 
    There may be no such thing as a love potion, but combine the stress-reducing and energy-boosting effects of adaptogens and you’ve got the next best thing. These plants and mushrooms can help regulate your body to return to balance, so if anxiety is getting the better of you, they step in to aid in reducing your cortisol levels. But their transformative benefits don’t stop there—the effects of adaptogens can spice things up in the bedroom. Enter: Moon Juice’s Sex Dust. Packed with a stimulating blend of adaptogens and herbs that target stress to support healthy hormonal balance, libido, and creative energy, knocking boots just got way more exciting.
    Add the natural libido supplement to your coffee, tea, or smoothie, or pair it with your favorite chocolate. With ingredients that are traceable, potently-dosed, and easily absorbed, you can rest assured that your sexual health is getting the right kind of TLC. Use code EVERYGIRL10 to get 10% off one order, and get ready to ignite your sexual spark. 

    Moon Juice
    Sex Dust
    With a combination of Shatavari, Shilajit, Epimedium, Schisandra, Cacao, and Maca, this stimulating blend of adaptogens and herbs targets stress to support healthy hormonal balance, libido, and creative energy.
    Use code EVERYGIRL10 for 10% off of your first order from Moon Juice!

    Source: @moonjuice

    Reach for aphrodisiac foods
    We’ve all heard that aphrodisiacs are said to arouse sexual desire and pleasure. But are chocolate, oysters, and strawberries really that powerful? While there’s little scientific evidence that the rumored sexy stimulants are the real deal, there are food supplements that have been proven to help you get back in the saddle: maca, ginkgo biloba, fenugreek, and pistachio nuts, to name a few. From helping increase blood flow to promoting the production of sex hormones, consider these “aphrodisiacs” your natural libido-boosting friends. But at the end of the day, you can’t go wrong with eating a nutrient-dense, hormone-balancing diet (think: high-quality, pastured meats and eggs, fruits and veggies, and healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil and avocados). 

    Show your pelvic floor some love
    If you’ve ever done a kegel exercise, you’re already ahead of the game (bravo!). The group of muscles that form a bowl-like shape between your sit bones (AKA your pelvic floor) is responsible for giving you the best “O” you’ve ever had and preventing you from peeing in your pants in bumper-to-bumper traffic. In other words, you have your pelvic floor to thank for enjoying sex and controlling your bladder and bowel movements. One red flag that your pelvic floor could use a tune-up? You guessed it, a low libido. The good news? You can improve your pelvic floor health and, in turn, your sex drive by seeking pelvic floor therapy, practicing yoga, foam rolling, and performing exercises that strengthen and target the muscle group. 

    Source: @buffy

    Get plenty of sleep
    PSA: Getting enough rest affects way more than just your beauty. Case in point: Studies show that sleep deprivation is linked to reduced sexual desire and arousal in women. When you snooze, your body restores energy and regulates hormone levels and the muscles and cells in your body repair and grow, so getting adequate sleep can make or break your sex life. Bottom line: Consistent quality sleep equals a healthy sex drive. As if you needed more reason to prioritize your Zzzs, for every additional hour of shuteye you get, your libido increases by 14%. So establish a wind-down routine (yoga stretches, anyone?), say no to caffeine after lunch, fit in movement in your day, and keep your sleeping environment at a cool to 65°F to 72°F to recharge your body and mind. The result? A heightened libido. 

    Consider a natural alternative to hormonal birth control
    Chances are you’ve been on or are currently on a type of hormonal contraceptive. And it’s no secret that hormonal birth control methods have unwelcome physical and sexual side effects, including a diminished libido. I hate to be the bearer of more bad news: A study concluded that women using a hormonal contraceptive approach experienced less frequent sexual activity, arousal, pleasure, and orgasm.
    So what’s a girl to do? Fortunately, there are natural alternatives to hormonal contraceptives. From good ol’ condoms and the “pull-out” tactic to silicone diaphragms and cervical caps, there’s no shortage of hormone-free birth control options available. Since narrowing down the best non-hormonal birth control for you should take into account the risks and benefits of each type as well as your lifestyle and personal needs, have a chat with your OBGYN and don’t be afraid to ask any questions you may have, no matter how embarrassing they may seem (there are no stupid questions after all). 

    Source: @bykwest

    Give your self-confidence a boost
    When you look at yourself in the mirror, what do you see and say to yourself? If it’s not your attributes and uplifting self-talk, we’ve got work to do (myself included). Because how we feel about ourselves and our bodies affects what goes (or doesn’t go) down between the sheets. It goes without saying that if you focus on your perceived flaws (“I wish I could get rid of the cellulite on my thighs” or “I’m not talented enough to get my dream job”), you’re not going to want to get it on. Instead, try shifting your mindset and bringing attention to your strengths, practicing words of affirmation, or hitting your favorite workout class to release those feel-good endorphins. While you’re at it, get in tune with your body, discover what arouses you, and take note of your major turn-ons (journaling always FTW). The main takeaway? Enhance your self-esteem and your sex life will thank you. 

    Communicate with your partner and/or a trusted practitioner 
    Let’s be real: Talking to your partner or your doctor about your low sex drive is anything but sexy and can be awkward AF. But what if I told you that talking about your sex life reinforces not only your relationship, but also your sexual satisfaction? And when you have a stronger emotional connection with your S.O., the chances of having mind-blowing sex gets a whole lot higher.
    Now that I have your attention, when the time is right (read: when you’re both calm and relaxed), bite the bullet and kick off the conversation with something like, “This is really uncomfortable for me, but can we find a time for me to share something about our sex life with you?” If that feels totally out of reach, use a movie, TV show, or article you can relate to as a conversation starter. Once you’ve got your heart-to-heart going, be open and honest about how you’re feeling and what you want and need. Try not to leave out the details to help your partner understand what you’re experiencing while not placing any blame on them. Remember that your sex issues won’t get solved overnight, so maintaining an open and ongoing dialogue is key.
    Say you’ve given communication with your partner and the aforementioned remedies the old college try and your libido hasn’t budged, don’t brush it aside. Seek a trusted professional, whether an OBGYN or therapist, to get to the bottom of it. Whatever the cause, having a healthy libido and fulfilling sex life is your right. 

    7 Habits of Women Who Always Have a Healthy Libido

    This post contains a sponsored inclusion of Moon Juice, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    Your guide to F1 weekend with Yas Plaza Hotels’ special offerings in Abu Dhabi

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: As Abu Dhabi gears up for Formula 1 at full speed, Yas Plaza Hotels brings a host of exciting events to the table this month.
    To embark on an experiential journey, the capital’s favourite spots will be filled with action-packed days just opposite from the bustling Yas Marina Circuit.
    With six world-class hotels located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, this enticing entertainment destination is home to various hospitality brands including Radisson Blu, Yas Island Rotana and more.
    If you’re looking to plan ahead of all the races this month, we have the ultimate guide to where to make your bookings from now.

    Visitors can make their first pit stop at Park Inn by Radisson Blu Yas Island and head to Underdog Club at Amerigos with a plethora of tempting dishes varying from tacos to churros. During lunchtime, guests can opt for the Chef’s signature lunch menu starting at Dhs169 for soft drinks and Dhs269 for house beverages from 12:30pm to 4pm. For the Mercadito evening table brunch, guests can experience four hours of brunching for Dhs299 with house beverages and Dhs399 with premium house beverages from 6pm to 12am on Thursday and Friday, November 17 and 18, 2022 with live entertainment from DJ Dave and Latin Duo. Those looking to visit the venue on the weekend, can avail of the Acapulco brunch starting at Dhs299 with house beverages 12:30pm to 4pm. In a laidback setting and experience a three-hour house beverage package starting at Dhs259 from 4pm to 8pm on Saturday and Sunday, November 19 and November 20, 2022.
    To warm up for the Grand Prix experience, guests can wear their favourite orange outfits and embrace the Dutch spirit at one of the best seafood and steaks hotspots, Belgian Beer Café at Radisson Blu Yas Island for their second pit stop. With a delectable a la carte offering throughout the weekend from 12:30pm to 3am, visitors can cheer to their heart’s content. For some liquid fuel, visitors can try the house beverages package for three hours at Dhs259 from 4pm to 8pm and experience the best tunes for talented names such as Alena & Mya and DJ Daro.
    If you’re looking for the longest brunch, Live Action at Stills situated at Crowne Plaza Yas Island is hosting their award-winning party brunch, Funch from 12pm to 4pm starting at Dhs299 with an after party from 4pm to 6pm at Dhs199 on November 19 and 20, with entertainment from DJ Cliff, DJ Rady and more for pit stop five.

    With a medley of the venues’ resident DJs, Go Unreal at Y Bar at Yas Island Rotana will serve sumptuous delights from 12pm to 4am throughout the weekend. As the eighth pit stop, guests can indulge in healthy greens, signature dishes, bubble and grapes to go in full speed and witness the F1 heroes on the big screen.
    At the second last pit stop, Michelin star Chef Jitin Joshi has created a menu that will tantalise your palate with Indian-inspired dishes at the British Indian Curry Club at Rangoli at Yas Island Rotana. From November 17 to November 20, 2022, visitors can enjoy the evening menu from 6pm to 1am and, to elevate their 2022 Grand Prix experience.
    For more information and to make bookings visit yasplazahotels.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More