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    How L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon’s executive chef pursued his culinary dreams

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    When it comes to fine dining, Dubai most definitely knows how to impress.
    Adding to the emirate’s food scene is a concept by late renowned Michelin-starred chef Joël Robuchon. Enter L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon where dishes are born to touch all the senses. Known for his love for quality ingredients, textures and flavours, Executive Chef, Roberto Torre has played an imperative role in bringing his culinary vision on a plate.
    It was no easy feat for Chef Roberto to pave a way for himself in this industry and despite the challenges, he pursued his dreams after learning from his revered mentors including Monsieur Joël Robuchon himself.
    “The hardest part of starting my career as a young Commis Chef was being away from my family since I was 17,” he tells Emirates Woman.
    By converting his passion for food as a young child into a full-time successful career, Chef Roberto has led the brigade as Executive Chef of the L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Dubai since its opening in 2020.
    Emirates Woman spoke to L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon’s Executive Chef, to delve into his career and how he’s played a pivotal role in transforming the brand.
    Talk us through your career.
    Having been born and raised in Italy, I attended the Hotel School in Salerno, which is located in Campania (southwestern Italy). I began my career in luxury hotels in Italy, under the direction of Executive Chef Domenico d’Imperio at the six-star hotel Tre Vaselle in Umbria, where I learned about consistency and how to enhance flavours. After spending some time in the Maldives, I settled down in Paris in 2011 and joined Chez Jean – a Michelin star restaurant. In 2015, I joined Joël Robuchon Group and more specifically L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon Saint Germain (which is the first L’Atelier of Monsieur Joël Robuchon, created in 2003) as Executive sous-chef. Since 2020, I have led the brigade as Executive Chef of the new L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Dubai.

    What initially inspired you to enter the hospitality realm?
    In the beginning, there was nothing that predestined me to enter this world. No one in my family or in my circle came from this hospitality background. Some of my earliest memories come from my grandparents and my mother. I remember helping my grandmother and mother make traditional pasta when I was a child. I learned how to cook authentic Italian dishes, particularly those from the south of Italy, where I’m from. A practice that, over time, gave me a taste of the ingredients as well as the gastronomy, was introduced to me by my grandfather who taught me how to grow vegetables. Ultimately, each of them transmitted to me, in their own way, the taste of effort, the love of a well-done task, and the taste of simple, honest and authentic work. It wasn’t long before what started out as only curiosity gradually turned into a passion.

    What eventually brought you to Dubai?
    The opening of the new L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in the Middle East. Joël Robuchon Group offered me the opportunity to be in the driver’s seat of this amazing kitchen and restaurant as Executive Chef.
    L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon opened back in October 2020. How have things evolved for the restaurant over the last two years?
    Since the opening, our team has worked very hard and has become even stronger. We have found our cruising speed. Over the months, the team has continued to grow together. To make our clients happier and more satisfied, we will continue to improve ourselves. These conclusive results have been achieved with the help of our loyal guests for a few months now. We are actively developing new suggestions to always surprise our guests. Our concept is timeless and present everywhere in the world. Providing quality and pleasure to our gastronomic clients is the most important thing to us. It is our commitment to focus on quality and pleasure, and pursue our efforts to be at the top.
    How do you continue to embody the legacy of Joël Robuchon?
    We will pursue the legacy of Joël Robuchon, the most starred chef in the world, in being creative and maintaining the requirement of Monsieur Joël Robuchon as he taught us.
    In your opinion, what are the hero dishes at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon?
    Le caviar “Royal Oscietra” – Caviar over a crispy poached egg with smoked salmonLa Langoustine – Langoustine in ravioli with truffle, foie gras sauce and green cabbageLe Black Cod – Marinated with miso under daikon with a yuzu infusionLe Ravioli King Crab – King crab with thinly sliced daikon, lightly spicedLa Papillote – Langoustine in a crispy papillote with basil
    What sets the F&B industry in Dubai apart from the rest of the world?
    Dubai’s culinary scene has become increasingly reliant on the F&B industry. It is now one of the fastest growing and most competitive industries in the world. A great deal of innovation has occurred in the quality and diversity of food and restaurants over the years. International travellers are becoming attracted to Dubai and the UAE because of its food scene. Here in Dubai/the UAE, there are some brilliant places to eat, full of life, style and atmosphere.
    What are the hurdles you’ve experienced throughout your career?
    The hardest part of starting my career as a young commis chef was being away from my family since I was 17. At this age, you usually spend time with family and friends and enjoy a carefree existence. Today, with hindsight and experience, it looks more like a plus than a negative. My life and career as an Executive Chef have been greatly enriched by these sacrifices made 20 years ago.
    What have been the milestones?
    The first decisive step was joining Chez Jean with Chef Attilio Marrazzo as soon as I arrived in Paris. The opportunity to work in the world capital of gastronomy is one of the most important events in the life of any cook. There is a reason why French Gastronomy has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later, when I joined the first Atelier de Joël Robuchon Saint Germain and I met Axel Manes, a disciple of Joël Robuchon, and one of his Chefs. Throughout his career, he has been always in search of new creations, always more original, composed of excellent products, which have been carefully selected. This journey with Joël Robuchon Group really defined who I am today.
    Finally, what are the future plans for L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon?
    L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Dubai is one of his last projects. Monsieur Joël Robuchon was very involved in this project which took many years to be achieved. His spirit, mind, and imprint are evident in this accomplishment. In keeping with his style and principles, we will work hard as he always did.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images & Feature Image: Instagram @atelier_robuchondubai More

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    I’ve Been on Autopilot for Months—Here Are 5 Ways I’m Getting It Together This Fall

    Lately, I’ve been going through some major life changes. I’m talking about switching career paths, ending a nearly five-year relationship, and moving across the country—all at once. To say that this has been an overwhelming experience would be an understatement. As I’ve been navigating the changes as they come, I’ve found myself more in “survival” mode than normal.
    Many of the things I love to do, my mental health, and my physical well-being have been put on the back burner while I’ve tried to stay afloat. Think circa 2020 when we were all just trying to get by, understand how the world was changing, and simply take things day by day. We were living on autopilot, and maybe some of you, like me, have stayed in that stagnant place for a little too long. 
    Now that I’m starting to feel more settled in a new routine, I’ve decided it’s time to regain control of my life. It’s important to me that I craft a better future for myself. I want to start chasing my goals once again. Like everything in life, that’s easier said than done. I’ve realized it will take a lot of effort to get back on track. While I’ve needed to give myself grace the last few months, I know it’s time to hit the ground running. Here’s exactly how I plan to get it together this fall:

    1. Join a personal development group
    The easiest way I’ve found to stay in a slump is to try to get out of it on my own. As human beings, we need community, support, and genuine connections. This is exactly what Topknot was able to provide me.
    If your best friend were also an affordable life coach who encourages you with forward-thinking and tangible ways to achieve your goals, you’d have Topknot. Their goal is to be an affordable alternative to one-on-one life coaching, where you meet with other women in a personal development club to discuss ways to achieve your goals. 
    Ever since my first Topknot session, I have been obsessed. I’ve left each one feeling energized and motivated. Before the first session, Topknot asked me to provide a goal. In my case, I chose to advance my career. Topknot matched me with another individual with a similar goal. For 40 minutes, she and I discussed the issues that have held us back from achieving our goals. We also discussed tangible ways to overcome the setbacks and strategic timelines for measuring success. 

    The Topknot website guided the discussion for us, strategically offering discussion points that allowed us to come to the conclusions we did. Maybe the most impressive part of the session was that you were given the option to add alerts from their website to your personal calendar. These alerts remind you to work on the action steps you previously set. 
    Through the support of my personal development group members, the constructive conversation I had with my partner, and the accountability aspects of Topknot, I’ve achieved real day-to-day progress. The best part? It is a low-cost, hassle-free platform for women who want to invest in personal growth. Interested in learning more? Click here to start a free trial membership of Topknot Time and start slaying your goals today.

    Source: Vlada Karpovich | Pexels

    2. Journal
    You’ve probably heard us talk about journaling more than once. (I think that just shows how important it is not to let your thoughts consume your brain.) As a writer, it may seem like journaling would come easy to me. But truthfully, as much as I love to write, putting my thoughts and feelings down on paper was—and still is—something I have to work on. Likewise, you don’t have to be “good at writing” to take up journaling. 
    The great thing about journaling is that no one but you has to read it. As the ultimate act of self-care, think of it as a quiet time to be with yourself and your thoughts. Instead of having thoughts racing around in your mind all day, give those words home on a piece of paper. One of the things I’ve loved most about taking up journaling is that it’s helped me sleep better. It used to take me so much longer to fall asleep because I would stay awake thinking. I would think about my to-do list, all of the upcoming changes, and everything else that was worrying me. Leaving everything on the page before bed gives me a solid reason not to have all these thoughts when it comes time to lie my head down.

    3. Go to the gym
    It’s no secret that regular exercise can make you feel good. Your brain is literally releasing “happy” chemicals. After being in what felt like survival mode for months, my physical health turned for the worst. I wasn’t eating well, and my workout routine was almost nonexistent. And if there’s one thing that can kick you while you’re down, it’s not feeling confident in your own skin.
    While I pay very little attention to the number on the scale, the effects of not prioritizing my physical health were showing in most aspects of my life. I was feeling extra tired and lacking motivation. And, to be honest, when my clothes didn’t fit as well as they used to, I felt uncomfortable in my skin. 
    Making the commitment to exercise regularly was something that I needed to do. The beauty of getting into a fitness routine is that it can be ever-changing. One day I’ll feel super motivated and take a high-intensity workout class. On other days when I need a slower pace, I can opt for a more meditative yoga session. For me, getting out of the house and spending time moving my body means starting to feel better in my skin again and improving my mental health exponentially.

    Source: Andres Ayrton | Pexels

    4. Reprioritize old hobbies
    While dealing with several life changes simultaneously, the things I once enjoyed had to be put on the back burner. One hobby that hurt me to lose was reading. I’ve loved reading all my life. So, seeing that become less and less of a priority was a hard pill to swallow.
    To get myself back on track, I decided to reprioritize this hobby that I love. First, I got a library card, which made it significantly easier to read more because I’m not spending $15-20 per book. Then, I set aside time in my days specifically for reading. I even started a bookstagram. Getting back into a hobby I love has been like reconnecting with an old friend. It’s just what I’ve needed to start to feel like “me” again. Even if you don’t already have a hobby you love, there’s no better time to start exploring your options. The great thing about hobbies is that they give you something to focus on. When you prioritize a new activity, you show yourself that you can be motivated. And the first time you do something successfully in your hobby, you will get feelings of accomplishment that can accompany you throughout the rest of your daily life.

    5. Say “yes” more
    There’s nothing like your comfort zone to keep you in a stagnant place. One of the most rewarding decisions I’ve made lately is choosing to say “yes” when opportunities arise—even when it means leaving the comfort of my couch and favorite TV show (The Vampire Diaries, obviously). 
    For instance, I was recently invited to a golf event with about 45 people. Of those 45, I personally knew four of them. Oh, and I had never golfed a day in my life. Do I sound unhinged for saying yes to this event? Probably. But I also am so glad that I did. As it turns out, golf is pretty fun, and I wasn’t as bad at it as I thought. On top of that, I was able to meet so many people who were all incredibly nice and welcoming. I even made a few actual friends out of the experience. 
    All that to say, good things happen when we step out of our comfort zones. A great way to get out of a slump is to make yourself do things—even an activity that is nearly foreign to you—and spend time with other people. 

    7 Tips To Change Your Mindset so You Can Manifest Your Dream Life

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

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    International Coffee Day 2022: Where you can get complimentary coffee in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    24 mins ago

    If you’re a coffee aficionado, there’s some good news for you.
    With International Coffee Day soon approaching on October 1, the UAE has a host of exciting offers brewing to celebrate the occasion.
    From complimentary coffees to exclusive barista-inspired workshops, there are plenty of opportunities for coffee connoisseurs to make the most of this day.
    So, if you’re looking for a complimentary cup of joe, Emirates Woman is here to help.
    Jones the Grocer

    Did someone say unlimited coffee? Yes, Jones the Grocer in DIFC is offering coffee all day on October 1 in its chic venue. With space for over 50 people at once, residents and tourists can visit and enjoy unlimited coffees after purchasing one. Available from 8am to 10pm, visitors can choose any sized regular coffee and have a second, third or fourth complimentary add-on with free refills to avail of on October 1, 2022, at the DIFC, Gate Building 5, Level 2.
    For more information visit jonesthegrocer.com
    Hampstead Bakery and Café

    There’s nothing like a caffeine fix accompanied by pristine views of Dubai’s skyline. This London-inspired eatery is offering guests one complimentary coffee to mark this special occasion. Whether a classic cappuccino or a hot caramel latte, visitors can experience this downtown gem with their friends and family. Located at Downtown Kitchens, Fountain Views, this offer is valid on October 1, from 9am to 10:30pm.
    For more information visit thehampsteadbakery.com
    Flat12 Café

    Known for its vintage cars and heritage motors, this boutique coffee show will let you fuel up your day in the most enticing manner. At one of Dubai’s most quirky venues visitors can relish a complimentary cup of joe to kick off the International Coffee Day celebrations. Additionally, the café has collaborated with Khaleeji platform Wilk Arab West to create a unique WAW coffee pod, which will be displayed during a pop-up and available on a first-come basis between September 30 to October 2, 2022. Located in Port Rashid, guests can enjoy one free hot coffee per customer available between 12pm to 1pm on October 1, 2022.
    Mondoux

    For visitors going to either of Mondoux’s two locations at Dubai Creek Harbour and The Beach, JBR, they’re allowed one complimentary coffee with each purchase of a dessert or crepe from 3pm to 6pm on October 1. To add to this exclusive experience, guests can also attend an exclusive one-hour coffee workshop to delve into the basics and learn about the fundamentals of beans and various preparation methods. Led by the café’s head Barista, the class will take place at Mondoux Dubai Creek Harbour from 10am to 11am, which is subject to availability and prior booking.
    For more information visit mondoux.ae
    Around the Block

    This minimal Emirati homegrown concept is giving away a mega prize, where guests can walk home with a grand prize on International Coffee Day. Without limiting to one day only, visitors have a chance to win free coffee for the entire year. The competition takes place at the Wasl 51 branch from 4pm to 6pm to win a year of free coffee. To participate guests must find the hidden golden coffee bean with the venue and present it to a member of staff. Adding to the prizes, guests can also participate in a raffle draw and win a masterclass with their Chief of Coffee, Justin and taught the methods of brewing from the master himself.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @lucky_h_girl More

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    Ready for a Change? 3 Secrets To Successfully Switch Career Paths

    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.

    We’ve all had that moment when the voice in the back of your head starts screaming, “This is not the right path for me!” Whether it’s about a relationship, a habit, a place, or a job, realizing that you want to be doing something completely different is always a tough revelation. Luckily, there are concrete steps you can take to make a big change easier, especially when it comes to your career.
    On this week’s episode of The Everygirl Podcast, Josie sits down with the Branded Content Editor at The Everygirl, Ashley Selleke, to chat about her journey from full-time nursing to working entirely in media and content creation. Ashley has so many valuable tips to share, from valuable resume builders to confidence-building exercises. Read on for a few of Ashley’s biggest tips for successfully changing career paths, and check out this week’s episode of The Everygirl Podcast for more.

    1. Check in with yourself about your career
    Deciding to switch careers may not always be such a clear choice. If you’re getting a gut feeling that a career might not be the right path for you, listen to your intuition. We only get one life, and doing something that you love is worthwhile. However, if you’re not quite sure what you specifically dislike about your current career, sit with yourself and consider the pros and cons of what you’re doing. That time of self-reflection and getting honest with yourself might make all of the difference when it comes to getting into the career that is right for you.

    2. Build your confidence by remembering your skills are transferrable
    If you have a dream job in mind that’s completely different or seems unrelated to your current or past jobs, don’t write off skills you’ve picked up throughout your professional journey. You can still get that dream job, even if you think your resume doesn’t quite match up. Life experience is experience. Period. Even if it isn’t in the industry that you’re trying to transition into, there are so many skills that live in multiple different industries.
    Write out everything that you already know. It will show you that you can be good at your dream job, give you a confidence boost, and show you what skills you could work on before landing your dream job or making the career pivot. If there are a few skills you want for your dream career—but don’t currently have—practice during your free time. This could mean building up writing experience through a personal blog like Ashley, or it could mean taking an online class. 

    3. Be ready for new opportunities that might come your way
    Work on that resume, portfolio, or degree now so that you’re ready if you network with the right person who has a job opening. (Opportunities can sometimes come from unexpected places.) It may be helpful to give yourself a deadline when you want to update your LinkedIn, build a portfolio, or make a website. Otherwise, you might find yourself waiting for the right time to be ready, and opportunities could pass you by. 
    If you are considering transitioning to a new industry, you do not have to wait until you reach burnout or feel like you need to leave your current job. You can build your resume and apply to jobs whenever. This will ensure that you can leap when that dream job application opens up. Even if you think nothing will come of it, you might as well give yourself the deadline—and, if you’re like Ashley, maybe you’ll end up surprising yourself with what you can achieve. More

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    UAE announces public holiday date for Prophet Muhammad’s birthday

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    The UAE has announced the date of the public holiday to mark Prophet Muhammad’s birthday.
    The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) confirmed via Twitter that the public holiday would fall on 12 of the Hijri month of Rabi Al Awwal which aligns with October 8, 2022, in the Gregorian calendar.

    The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) announced that Saturday, October 8, 2022, Rabi Al-Awwal 12, 1444 will be a paid leave for the private sector on the occasion of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday.#MoHRE pic.twitter.com/ho6FfiGOgj
    — وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) September 27, 2022

    Since the public holiday falls on a Saturday, it, unfortunately, means there will be no long weekend for those who work Monday to Friday.
    So, when can UAE citizens and residents look forward to the next public holiday?
    UAE Commemoration and National Day
    The next long weekend is will take place for the country’s Commemoration Day and National Day on December 1 and 2. It will fall on a Thursday and Friday this year, with the official days off for these dates being Thursday, December 1 until Sunday, December 4, 2022.
    As always, the final and official dates and public holiday eligibility for public sector employees and private sector employees are determined by UAE authorities.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Unsplash More

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    Marina Home’s latest collection infuses a sense of wanderlust into your home

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    Travel is transient, however, your home doesn’t need to be.
    By incorporating a myriad of memories reminiscent of everyone’s post-pandemic travels, Marina Home has launched an exclusive collection, LES VOYAGEURS which takes inspiration from the world in the form of every shape and texture this season.

    Fuelled by a world of discovery, the aesthetics will add a touch of elegance to your home. By celebrating freedom once again, the collection depicts how furniture can enrich your space with an acute representation of our dream destinations.
    Designed to echo the harmony of nature, the furniture and décor in the collection embraces natural earthy tones adding a touch of warmth to your most important rooms.
    The theme of the collection was born to champion the traveller who’s free to explore the world once again through each exotic element.

    So, whether it’s a tour of Brazil or a visit to the Moroccan mountains that inspired you this year, it’s a time to bring those memories to life through these nostalgic-driven interiors.
    From an avant-garde New York loft-style inspired sofa to a minimal Scandinavian crafted reclaimed bench, the varying interior design styles embody the charm of every decorator’s notion allowing them to make a house a home.
    [embedded content]
    Our editor-approved guide allows you to explore the world with travel-inspired décor and accessories from the comfort of your home.
    The Hero Buys

    The latest collection is available across all markets in the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Pakistan, Egypt and KSA in stores and online on marinahomeinteriors.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    in health and weelbeing

    6 Surprising Signs You’re Stressed Out (And Need A Holiday)

    You’re stressed. We’re stressed. Everyone’s stressed. No big deal, right? Because it’s so common, you might think that if you’re not lying on the floor from exhaustion, you’re probably fine. But stress has an insidious way of creeping up on you, and it’s not just a mental or emotional issue — stress symptoms can impact the body in some very visible (and bizarre) ways.
    “One of the biggest problems I see in my practice is women coming in with multiple physical signs of stress,” says Dr Nancy Molitor, a psychiatry professor at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. In fact, a new study found that stress and other negative emotions were consistently linked to poor physical health in more than 150,000 people in 142 countries. That’s because the mind and body are intrinsically connected.
    “Emotional stress alerts the body to produce stress chemicals such as cortisol, which — if produced on an ongoing basis — begin to break down the immune, gastrointestinal, neurological, and musculoskeletal systems,” says Molitor.
    What’s worse, those physical symptoms you end up with (um, bald patches) can bump up your emotional angst even more. If you don’t break the cycle, you’re left with an ugly feedback loop that increases your chances of serious issues such as obesity, depression, and heart disease. Pay close attention to your bod for these overall signs you’re stressed out. It signals the need for you to step back and take a break.
    The best ways to reduce your overall stress is to get enough sleep (seven to nine hours a night for most people), eat healthful food, exercise, reach out to supportive pals, and focus on things within your control. You can also learn to read your body and recognize the not-so-obvious signs that you’re overstressed before it all snowballs into a long-term health condition. Keep an eye out for these red flags:
    Read More: We Hear A Lot About Antioxidants – But What Are They, Really?
    You’re Stressed Out If…
    1/ You’ve got stomach aches
    The brain’s nervous system is linked to the gut’s, so mental stress can wreak havoc on your GI tract, says gastroenterologist Dr Bincy Abraham.
    Depending on your situation, your doctor may treat your tummy troubles with over-the-counter drugs (stool softeners), prescriptions (such as anti-nausea meds), or dietary changes (fibre can restore your gut’s stress-ravaged helpful bacteria).
    In the meantime, the best natural remedy for stress-caused constipation, diarrhoea, nausea, or vomiting is. . .exercise. It may sound like the last thing you want to do when your stomach is aching, but heading out for a run can boost endorphins that make the mind and gut feel better.
    2/ Your hair is falling out
    Super-high levels of sex hormones called androgens, which zoom up during stress, could mess with hair follicles to prompt temporary hair loss, says dermatologist Dr Roberta Sengelmann. (Shedding around 100 strands a day is normal.)
    There’s no one food or supplement that’s proven to restore your locks, but eating a balanced diet can help cell growth and healing.
    3/ You’ve got an eyelid twitching
    These annoying muscle spasms typically occur around one eye and last for a few minutes. Stress is one of their most common causes, though doctors aren’t quite sure why.
    When a twitch strikes, close your eyes, try to relax, and breathe deeply. Inhale for four seconds, hold your breath for seven seconds, then exhale for eight seconds. Repeat this four times while using a fingertip to put mild pressure on the lid that’s twitching.
    OTC artificial tears can also help ease the spasms, which dry eyes can exacerbate, says ophthalmologist Dr Anne Sumers. If the twitching spreads to other parts of your face, see a physician – it could be a more serious type of spasm.
    Read More: Cerebral Overload: How To Manage End Of Year Stress
    4/ You’ve got acne
    Just like your hair, your skin is sensitive to those higher-than-normal androgens, which can bring on breakouts, says Sengelmann. Stress can short-circuit your immune system, causing dormant skin issues to act up.
    Talk to your dermatologist if your zits keep coming back – the chronic inflammation can lead to scarring. (As hard as it is, resist the urge to pop the suckers, which only adds to the inflammation. And you’re more likely to end up with scarring when you’re stressed and your body’s ability to heal isn’t at its peak.) Oral and topical prescription meds, as well as certain soaps, can help unplug pores and wipe out the bacteria that cause acne.
    Your dermatologist might also suggest you go on birth control, or switch up what you’re already on, to balance out your hormones. And be sure to stick to noncomedogenic (i.e., non-pore-clogging) makeup, moisturisers, and sunscreen.
    5/ You’ve got back pain
    The hormones your body pumps out when you’re stressed produce a fight-or-flight response, which – along with raising your blood pressure and heart rate – tightens up your muscles. “If you’re trying to outrun a predator, that’s good,” says pain and rehab specialist Dr Joanne Borg-Stein.
    “But if it’s all the time, that sort of chronic stress response can lead to pain.” Plus, muscle aches are par for the course if you’re hunched over at your desk all day worrying about deadlines.
    Movement is the best remedy, so if your back is in knots, stand up every hour and do some stretches – reach your arms over your head, touch your toes, roll your neck and shoulders. Also try to get in a 10- to 15-minute walk around the office or outside once or twice a day.
    Read More: Getting A Mammogram: What To Know, Even If You’re Young
    6/ You’ve got rashes
    Stress can throw your immune system – not to mention your skin’s defenses – out of whack. When these are lowered, you could become susceptible to rash-causing skin infections caused by staph. On the flip side, if your immunity goes into overdrive, your skin will become more sensitive, making a dormant issue like eczema act up.
    In either case, bland emollients, including gentle OTC moisturizers, can help you heal. “If that doesn’t help, or if the rash is accompanied by a fever or other flu-like symptoms – chills, sweating – see your doctor right away,” advises Sengelmann. More

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    Exclusive: At home with… Founder and CEO of Z7 Communications, Zeina El-Dana

    Lifestyle

    by Dan Robinson
    1 hour ago

    Nothing excites us more than aesthetic interiors and clean spaces.
    One such place that stands out prominently is Zeina El-Dana’s home. As the founder and CEO of one of the region’s prominent PR agencies, Z7 Communications, she has made strides in every aspect of her career and it all lies at the place she works from.
    From muted hues to carefully curated furniture pieces, every room is tailored to complement her sought-after interior choices.
    For an exclusive peek, Emirates Woman shares all our most loved elements from El Dana’s home.
    How long have you lived/worked in this space?
    I moved to this house five years ago after a long hunt of over 40 different villas. I fell in love instantly as this space felt like home when I walked in. The light, the bright feel from the double-height ceiling and windows and the lush green garden resonated with the elements that I was looking for. I am very close to the beach, the vibrant cultural communities in Dubai as well the Z7 offices in Dubai Design District.
    Did you have a clear concept from the outset, and which key pieces are your favourite?
    Given my busy schedule, which involves a lot of travelling, finding my happy place was vital. I con- sider my home to be my haven, where I can recharge. I was on the lookout for an airy, bright space with an open living area where I could host my friends and family. I also like to be surrounded by nature and my home strikes the perfect balance with natural elements such as wood, plants, and flowers in the interiors and the beautiful garden where I enjoy spending the winter months in the warm company of my friends. Some of my favourite interior pieces are the collector’s Sumo edition of Murals of Tibet from Taschen, signed by the Dalai Lama, a vintage tribal carpet from Tribal Rugs in Beirut, and of course the art pieces I’ve collected over the years.

    Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces?
    My square red dining table was custom-made by The Line Concept and the marble bar that an independent designer in Dubai created. Both are unique pieces that stand out in the space.
    How do you think your interior reflects you/your brand?
    I created my home interior around my lifestyle, which I like to maintain as healthy, neat, and peaceful. I love the white interiors, which exude a holistic effect, Zen, and oodles of positive energy. There are also influences from art, vintage pieces, and my fashion choices to a certain extent. My style is minimalist, but I like mixing patterns and colours to add warmth. Similarly, my home’s mini- mal, white base is layered with splashes of colours and details, and I am always on the hunt for new, stylish, and subtle items I could add to my house. Being an ardent traveller, I’ve collected unique pieces throughout the years which add a personal touch to my space and reflect my journey. I love the charming old yet minimalistic design of the house overall.

    Describe your taste in three words.
    Minimalist, bohemian and evolving!
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