Raphael Stevens

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    in health and weelbeing

    5 Daily Non-Negotiables of Women Who Are Always Confident

    I came into this world with certain attributes that took no effort: my almond-shaped eyes, my obsession for anything peanut butter and chocolate, and my more-than-I-care-to-admit muscular calves (thanks, Dad). Confidence, on the other hand, is a trait I can say, without a doubt, I was not blessed with from day one. In fact, self-esteem is an unfamiliar feeling I struggle with. But confidence is a learned skill that takes practice, much like riding a bike or mastering a new language—something I gleaned from Jessica Chang-Irish, founder of Jessica Chang Consulting and a coach who trains women to speak and carry themselves more confidently.
    So how does Chang-Irish define confidence? “Confidence isn’t about being self-assured all the time,” she stated. “Rather, it’s a practice of self-awareness, acknowledging your value and gifts as well as your insecurities, and having the courage to break through those insecurities and do the hard things anyway—whether it be getting a new job, putting yourself back out in the dating scene, or recovering from an injury. Being a confident person also means being vulnerable. Confident people aren’t afraid to be vulnerable because they know they’re still valuable while being human and imperfect.” 
    It turns out, even confidence pros who exude major boss vibes have to work on their self-confidence every. single. day. Ahead, Chang-Irish’s daily must-haves to finding your inner power and confidence. Hint: They’re not your average tips. 

    Meet the expert
    Jessica Chang-Irish
    Speaking with Confidence Coach
    Jessica Chang-Irish is an Emmy-award winning news reporter turned public speaking coach who empowers women looking to build their influence through in-person or on-camera speaking. By combining her experience on camera and in marketing, she helps women who feel nervous about public speaking by equipping them with proven strategies and frameworks to boost their speaking skills and confidence.

    1. Remember your “why”
    Knowing your “why” (AKA your purpose) is the first step in tapping into your confidence. Why do you get out of bed every morning? Why do you do what you do? “Your why is your Northstar to turn to when you feel unsure or you’re being tested,” Chang-Irish explained. Author and speaker Simon Sinek agrees that when you start with your why (versus how and what you do), you have the ability to inspire those around you and yourself.
    Think of your why as your mission statement. It doesn’t just have to apply to your career— it could be for your personal life too. Then, write it out. You can start with: “In everything I do, I believe …” Chang-Irish shared hers: “In everything I do and everyone I work with, I believe each and every person is capable of finding their voice and shining in the spotlight, and that I can empower and equip them to become a more confident version of themselves.” Once you’ve jotted down your why, post it up somewhere you frequent every day as a friendly reminder (think: your desk, fridge, bathroom mirror). 

    2. Surround yourself with a tribe of like-minded women
    Let’s face it: We’re our own worst critics. I don’t think twice about complimenting a stranger for her on-point ‘fit, but when it comes to myself, I nit-pick and dwell on my imperfections. Enter: friends or mentors who can empathize with you but don’t let you wallow in the “what ifs” and all-or-nothing thinking. Oh, and they give you a good kick in the butt to keep at it. Chang-Irish pointed out that your tribe could comprise of your friends, sisters, cousins, co-workers, or even communities on social media who share your interests. Be intentional about building your circle—each person may bring something different to the table, but they all should help you stay aligned with your purpose and your most authentic self. 

    3. Pay attention to your inner voice
    PSA: What you tell yourself matters. Whether you realize it or not, your self-talk can make the difference between gaining confidence and standing in your own way. The seemingly harmless narrative—”I’m not good/smart/pretty enough” or “I can’t”—you’ve been telling yourself creates your reality. On the flip side, fostering an optimistic monologue in your mind boosts your self-confidence and bids negative emotions adieu. In fact, people who can master positive thoughts and beliefs are more confident, motivated, and productive.
    “It’s up to you to develop your own inner voice of encouragement,” said Chang-Irish. “Or maybe you’ll find that voice in someone from your tribe. When you hear that voice of doubt in your head or feel the fear rising up, rewrite those limiting thinking patterns and remind yourself that you can do hard things. When you practice shifting your inner voice of doubt to a voice of encouragement, your confidence will flourish.”

    4. Prepare for the important interactions you’ll have 
    Think back to your college days or an interview you recently had. How confident were you walking into a final or your dream company and having put in the effort to study and do your research? My guess is way more confident than had you not prepared. In the same vein, laying the groundwork for the important conversations you’ll have in your day ahead will set you up for success and give you the opportunity to flex your confidence muscles.
    “Whether it’s a date, meeting, job interview, or networking event, think about what you’ll say in the five to 10 seconds you have to introduce yourself, how you’ll keep the conversation going, and what’s in it for the person or people you’re talking to,” Chang-Irish recommended. “While that first impression catches their attention, how are you going to keep their attention? One of the best ways to do that is to ask them questions. Do your homework about the person or people you’ll meet and come up with questions about their interests that genuinely interest you.”

    5. Listen to podcasts that fill your soul and lift you up
    Much like your tribe reminds you of your purpose and worth, the right podcast can be just the friend or voice you need for your daily dose of confidence. And, sure enough, there is no shortage of motivational podcasts that are just a tap away. Chang-Irish’s go-to’s are  “Oprah’s Super Soul,” “The Marie Forleo Podcast,” and “How to Fail With Elizabeth Day,” where you can expect open dialogue and sage advice from industry experts and celebs. And did you listen to The Everygirl Podcast yet? The episode with confidence coach, Regina Bonds, has such great insight into truly loving yourself and showing up as your most confident self. 
    Adding a few inspirational programs to your queue will not only give you a shot of self-belief but also a reprieve from the usual suspects—the “nevers,” “what ifs,” and “can’ts” (ruminating, who?). So go ahead and take that podcast out for a spin (read: walk) and get ready for an extra pep in your “hot girl” step. 

    This Easy Daily Habit Changed My Confidence More

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    Deal Alert: This Thrusting Happy Rabbit Vibrator We Love Is 25% Off RN!

    So. Rabbit vibrators. Thus named because of the two little “ears” that are designed to stimulate your clitoris, while the main shaft of the toy finds your G-spot. Simple enough. And more than effective enough at producing orgasms. What more could a girl want? Turns out, the people at Lovehoney asked themselves that exact question and really pulled a rabbit out of the hat with the Happy Rabbit Thrusting Vibrator.
    Why We Love The This Happy Rabbit Vibrator
    I can see your eyebrow rising in interest at the word “thrusting”. Of course, all vibrators have thrusting abilities – all you need to do is move your hand – but this toy actually does the thrusting for you because it has built-in thrusting technology (sounds super sexy) that delivers real-feel stimulation to imitate real-deal sexual relations.
    READ MORE: 5 Rabbit Vibrators You Need To Add To Your Collection Today
    The shaft has three thrusting speeds and the “happy ears” have a powerful motor with three speeds and six patterns, all of which promise to provide you with intense, spine-tingling blended pleasure. The toy is covered with velvet-soft silicone and is waterproof so you don’t need to limit your fun to dry land. It’s also USB rechargeable and has a nifty travel lock to make sure it doesn’t hop into action as you’re making your way through customs.
    This rabbit is pretty big, so it could be a bit intimidating to those brand-new to the toy game, but it’s super-simple to use (it only has two buttons) so you don’t need a PhD in engineering to get yourself off. If you’re looking for something new and exciting that will take you down a rabbit hole of fun, this Happy Rabbit vibrator is just for you. And as always, a good water-based lubricant is a must.
    READ MORE: 6 Legit **Quiet** Vibrators That’ll Get You Off Anytime, Anywhere
    [buy_button img=”https://www.womenshealthsa.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/happy-rabbit-thrusting-realistic-rabbit-vibrator-lovehoney.jpg” url=”https://c.trackmytarget.com?a=qru1ek&i=ph1q1o&ref1=HappyThrustingRabbitReview&r=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.desir.co.za%2Fsex-toys%2Flovehoney%2Fhappy-rabbit-thrusting-realistic-rabbit-vibrator-lovehoney-ref1761.html” description=”Lovehoney Happy Rabbit Thrusting Realistic Rabbit Vibrator” price=”1 492″ title=”Buy Now” alignment=”row”][/buy_button]
    Heads Up: To celebrate Women’s Day, Desir is giving all the ladies an early spoil with 25% off their entire Rabbit Vibrator category. You can check out all they toys available here. The promotion runs from Monday 1st August until Monday 8th August and is applicable for Showroom visits too.
    Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. More

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    I Grilled a Life Coach and Her Tips Will Transform Your Anxiety

    Racing thoughts, pounding heartbeat, heaviness in my chest, the all-consuming, sometimes debilitating sense of fear—just some of the unnerving ways anxiety shows up like an unannounced, unwelcome guest. If you’re one of the 40 million adults in the U.S. who experience anxiety like me, said symptoms are hard to shake off. While it may be comforting to know we’re in good company, having a handful of coping mechanisms at the ready to work through bouts of anxiety can make all the difference. Because–let’s be real– sometimes no amount of logic will cut it. I turned to Alana Warlop, a psychotherapist and life coach, to get the lowdown on her anxiety tips for reclaiming your calmness when it strikes. We got this. 

    Meet the expert
    Alana Warlop
    Life Coach
    Alana Warlop is a spiritual psychotherapist and transformational coach who has guided countless women into next levels of leadership and impact. From traditional transpersonal therapy to utilizing breathwork and meditation, she has spent much of her life learning what it means to heal and experience a life beyond limits.

    What is anxiety exactly?
    Sure, I could try to pinpoint the all-too-familiar ways that anxiety manifests itself for me, but it looks different for everyone. For some, it’s constant, and for others, it’s triggered by a stressful situation (looking at you, health scare) or creeps up out of nowhere when everything was coming up roses. Putting into words what anxiety really is can help us identify and take control of it, no matter the person. “[Anxiety is] a crafty way of distracting your attention and holding the energy of your awareness hostage in a never-ending search for a ‘solution’ that alleviates the discomfort that you are experiencing,” explained Warlop. “We perseverate in hopes that we can find a logical reason why we feel hurt, depressed, judged, shamed, guilty, blamed, or self-critical. And, if we know why, then we think the reasoning will justify our feelings and they will settle.” Warlop warned that that approach rarely works, and if it does, it’s only for the short-term.
    But why doesn’t reasoning work, you ask? “Anxiety is a product of stuck, stale, or stagnant emotional energy and incomplete trauma patterns pent up in the nervous system,” Warlop elaborated. “Emotions and traumas that are unresolved stay stuck in our bodies and build in their power to hijack the limbic and nervous systems, which control our behavior above and beyond any logic you could ever muster.” Long story short, at the root of it, anxiety is the mind’s natural defense against having to feel or experience something painful. While you should always talk to your doctor or therapist if experiencing anxiety, Warlop lets us in on some hacks you can try to not only manage anxiety but to heal from it so it doesn’t get in the way of living your best lives. 

    Tips to help during moments of anxiety:
    Bring awareness to your breath
    There is no shortage of “take a deep breath” memes floating on the world wide web, but it’s for good reason. The practice has become the go-to method in times of stress, and Warlop emphasized that it’s one of the best things you can do when experiencing anxiety. “Feel the breath move in and out of the body so that the attention from the mind goes into the body,” she instructed. “Let the body know that it is safe to experience all that is there and then ask, ‘What am I afraid to feel?’” 
    Warlop also suggested moving your attention to the heart: “Imagine breathing a beautiful, warm, golden energy into the heart space with every breath. Let this light grow in size and calming power inside you. This will also move you forward into soothing yourself, instead of wasting energy searching for a solution to an unanswerable (and, most of the time, made up) problem or insecurity.”

    Feel your feelings
    Having feelings is as natural and involuntary as breathing, but Warlop clarified that feeling is simply a physical sensation and anything beyond that are stories and perceptions that we attach to the feeling. “We are conditioned to think about our feelings instead of actually feeling them, so many people I work with have no idea that they don’t actually know how to feel feelings without telling stories and attaching meaning to them,” she stated. On the other hand, shifting your focus from what’s going on outside of you to your internal experience of your senses, energy, and emotions (AKA “felt sense”) will bring your awareness to the present moment. The result? There is nothing that you cannot truly feel, and allowing yourself to really feel everything that comes along with anxiety will help kick it to the curb.

    Don’t judge your thoughts
    I’m no stranger to thoughts taking over my mind and spiraling further into an anxious episode. You know, like “What if things don’t work out,” “Nobody likes me,” or “I’m not good enough.” Warlop advised giving myself space to be curious about those beliefs and distracting myself from them, rather than reacting to them: “Carry around an essential oil you love to smell when you can start to feel yourself going in the direction of repetitive and worrisome thoughts. Brush your fingertips along the skin of your arm or face, and focus on the pleasant sensation. Put on calming music and focus on the sound frequencies.” In other words, tap into all of your senses—sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing—to instantly bring you back to the present moment.  

    Take care of your basic needs every day
    PSA: Anxiety is the body’s way of letting you know that it is in distress and needs more care. Call it self-care or creating a solid, foolproof routine, but prioritizing basic health and wellness habits is Warlop’s non-negotiable. If you’re not catching enough Zzzs, I’ve got (bad) news for you: Lack of sleep makes the list of top culprits of anxiety. Warlop suggested forgoing your daily nightcap or the next episode in your Netflix cue and letting your body reset. “7-9 hours of sleep, good nutrition, nature time, and working out are essential in shifting the inner landscape,” she stressed. “And for added bonus points, try meditation. Consistent meditation is a game-changer in resetting your nervous and limbic systems.”

    These tips are not meant to serve as treatment for anxiety disorder. If you are struggling with anxiety, please reach out to your doctor, a therapist, or another trusted professional for support.Crisis Textline: text CONNECT to 741741

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

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    Stress Can Mess With Your Vaginal Health–Here’s What You Should Know and How To Deal Accordingly

    It’s no secret that stress can take a toll on your body, so it’s unsurprising that it can mess with your vaginal health too. Now, I know what you’re thinking: Another thing I have to worry about?! Trust me, I get it—sometimes you get so caught up in trying to ward off  stress that you end up stressing yourself out even more because you’re stressed about not being stressed. It’s a vicious cycle and one that’s easy to fall into. That said, taking the time to learn about how stress truly affects your body can help you manage stress and its effects, or might even know what signs and symptoms to look out for that your body might be trying to tell you.
    A brief disclosure: If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned below, scheduling an appointment with your OB-GYN is never a bad idea. If stress is the root cause (or you feel a lot of stress, even if it’s pre-symptoms), make sure you’re also carving out time for yourself to practice self-care and using healthy outlets, such as meditating, journaling, or exercising as ways to manage stress. At the end of the day, finding what works for you and nourishing your mind, body, and soul is going to keep both you and your vagina happy and healthy. Keep scrolling to learn five major ways stress can mess with your reproductive health and how to deal accordingly, along with tips and tricks to de-stress so you can better take care of your mind and body.

    1. Changes in discharge and increased risk of infection
    Stress can suppress the immune system and may seriously disrupt the pH levels in the vulva. When this happens, you may notice discharge that smells funky, is thicker than usual, or darker in color. This occurs because your body’s defense mechanisms are lowered and your vagina has more difficulty weeding out bad bacteria, making it more susceptible to infection. Although discharge is totally normal and changes throughout your cycle, think of it as a window into your body’s overall health: If there’s an abrupt, drastic change in it, it’s usually a telltale sign that something more is going on.
    It may be an isolated incident or an infection, like bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection. Talking to your doctor about any changes in discharge or concerns about possible infection is always a good idea as they may be able to provide you with a prescription or over-the-counter remedy. You could also talk to your doctor about trying over-the-counter supplements and vitamins like probiotics or vitamins D and C. Some types of probiotics may help the vagina maintain a healthy pH level, while vitamin D and C can help strengthen your immune system.

    2. Vaginal dryness
    Stress can reduce the amount of blood flow to the vagina, which in turn can reduce moisture and cause dryness. “With stress on your mind, hormone levels will begin to shift—as cortisol rises, testosterone (essential for your libido) will dip,” Dr. Alyssa Liguori, an OB/GYN based in Georgia, wrote for Northside Hospital. “Your body won’t be sending enough blood down there to increase moisture, so vaginal dryness and/or discomfort is more likely.” This dryness can also cause painful sex and an inability to orgasm—two things you definitely do not need in your life.

    3. Low libido
    When you have a huge work deadline looming, student loans to pay off, and a packed social calendar, sex is probably going to be the last thing on your mind. It’s normal, but it turns out there’s a medical reason for it. Because your testosterone levels dip as cortisol levels rise, you not only experience vaginal dryness, but may experience low sex drive as well, since testosterone is essential for libido. However, getting it on can actually destress you: orgasming regularly can improve your mood, release stress hormones, and keep your vagina from getting depressed (who else remembers the Sex and the City episode where Charlotte announces at lunch her vagina has depression?). Even if you’re not totally in the mood, it may be worth reaching for your vibrator to try to destress. However, if you’re experiencing zero interest or changes in sex drive, always talk to your doctor (remember that libido is an important vital sign!)

    4. Changes in menstrual cycle
    If you have a menstrual cycle, its completely run on hormones (the different changes in your cycle are due to estrogen and progesterone levels). If your stress hormones are out of whack, your menstrual cycle can become irregular, those notorious PMS symptoms can intensify, or you may skip a period altogether. This can also cause fertility issues since irregular periods can distress ovulation schedules and make getting pregnant more difficult. If you’re experiencing painful or irregular periods and have felt extra stressed, your cortisol levels could be to blame. As always, if you experience any changes in your menstrual cycle, always talk with your doctor to get to the root cause.

    5. Tight pelvic floor
    The pelvic floor is especially important for women with uteruses since it’s responsible for bowel and bladder movements, and provides support to the reproductive system. A strong pelvic floor makes sex more enjoyable and orgasms stronger. When we’re stressed, however, we can physically seize up (think: clenched jaw or fists) and that tension can reach our pelvic floor.
    A few early signs of a tight pelvic floor are constipation, pain during sex, and lower back pain. Hip, back, abdominal, or leg pain, a feeling of heaviness as though the pelvic floor is dragging, strain with bowel movements or emptying your bladder, or inability to completely empty the bowels or bladder, and a strong urgency to run to the restroom are also signs of pelvic floor dysfunction. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consider seeing a pelvic floor physical therapist.

    This Holistic Expert is Helping Women Have Better Periods
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    in lifestyle and culture

    Retreat from the heat this summer at this ultra-private and luxurious UAE resort

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    1 minute ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: Are you looking to retreat from the heat this summer, but don’t want to have to travel too far afield? We’ve got just the place for you.
    For a short getaway, The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah Al Wadi Desert is the perfect resort to escape to, both offering optimum privacy and a wealth of activities for guests to enjoy during the summer months.
    Situated in the heart of Ras Al Khaimah, this sophisticated and luxurious hotel is just a short drive from Dubai, but offers a whole new world of escapism.
    Optimum privacy

    With 100 Bedouin-inspired villas taking guests back to the country’s archives, each stay at this property is beyond the norm. The all-villa resort provides guests with complete privacy as each has its own private entrance and private pool, with the option for in-villa dining also.
    Delectable dining

    This summer, the resort has created a special seasonal menu at its award-winning Farmhouse restaurant. Embodying the ‘Farm to Table’ concept, the delectable dishes on the seasonal menu are all made from the freshest ingredients from the hotel’s 450sqft organic chef’s garden, as well as from wild meats and homegrown vegetables.
    Adventure awaits
    As you recharge amongst the Arabian desert surroundings, opt for an adventurous activity early doors. Take advantage of the cooler temperatures in the early morning and explore the surrounding wildlife via horseback. You may into close contact with the powerful Arabian Oryx, shy Arabian Gazelles or even the Blackbuck antelope. End your horse-riding session on a high note with breakfast at The Paddock Café where the menu is inspired by the 16 horses at the stables.
    Relax & revitalise

    Nothing says escapism like an indulgent spa experience. Immerse yourself in the Al Wadi Spa’s signature Rainforest experience which combines European hydrothermal culture with Middle Eastern bathing rituals. Featuring 16 stations, featuring a series of steam showers, hammam, Ice Igloo and more, the entire experience will help to cleanse and detox the whole body.
    A whole new ‘light’
    Explore the desert landscapes at sunset on a guided night walk, enabling you to see the Arabian desert in a whole new light. You’ll be able to encounter the many nocturnal animals that remain unknown to the daylight including desert hedgehogs, wily desert foxes and frog-eyed geckos.
    The details
    Avail a one-night stay in an Al Rimal Villa with prices starting at Dhs2,200++. This includes a night’s stay in a villa with a private pool, breakfast and a complimentary bird and owl show. For those who wish to stay at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert for longer, opt for a minimum of three nights to enjoy additional benefits and to save 20 per cent.
    For more information visit ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/uae/al-wadi-desert/offers.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Ibiza’s first premium all-inclusive adults-only hotel officially opens its doors

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    1 minute ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: An exclusive new resort has arrived on the shores of Ibiza and it’s a first for the island – the first and only premium all-inclusive adults-only hotel.
    The TRS Ibiza Hotel, part of the Palladium Hotel Group portfolio, opened its doors last month and is set to offer a new dimension in Ibiza’s luxury tourism sector.
    The launch of the new hotel marks a new chapter in an elevated level of service for the hotel group with its new Signature Level programme. As a part of the uber-luxe offering, guests can avail of a selection of additional benefits, which go beyond the hotel’s own space and facilities, offering, among others, access to restaurants and well-known venues on the island.

    It doesn’t end there. The group has also introduced an exclusive personal butler service for guests, taking the grandeur of the resort to a whole new level. Butler will be on-hand to cater to the individual wish list of each individual, which can easily be curated prior to arrival, creating a truly personalised stay. We’re talking specific pillow types, a selection of your favourite drink, favourite coffee capsules and more.
    The culinary offering
    While a stay at the TRS Ibiza Hotel is set to be nothing short of spectacular, it’s the resort’s culinary offering which really steals the show. With three à la carte restaurants and five bars, guests are spoilt for choice.
    Gaucho has Ibiza-inspired interior and exterior spaces where the signature concept is based on that of a traditional steak house. Charcoal entrecote, turbot with a light jus, boletus and calçot, or sea bass ceviche with tiger milk and butter are some of its hero dishes.

    For a Mediterranean experience, Helios brings indulgent luxury to a more informal level, through fresh and contemporary dishes. Its subtle Asian influences are found across its offerings which include fried cod with chipotle and apple mayonnaise, or steak tartare.
    An authentic gourmet experience can be availed at Capricho, where guests will find a selection of smoked and marinated dishes, as well as homemade pickles, accompanied by a selection of pintxos, meat and fish.
    As for the five bars, there’s Gaia Pool Bar, Aurum Lobby Bar or ÍO, where guests can enjoy the finest selection of cocktails and premium drinks poolside.
    A highlight is the Gravity sky lounge which faces the bay of San Antonio. This space offers a signature cocktail menu, infinity pool and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and there will be live music and jazz events throughout the season.
    The wellness

    While simply staying at the TRS Hotel Ibiza will undoubtedly relax and recharge you, take it to the next step and indulge in the property’s wellness facilities. Its main wellness hub is Zentropia Palladium Spa & Wellness which includes facilities such as waterfalls, a dry sauna, steam baths and sensation-showers.
    The hotel also has a modern gym with state-of-the-art facilities, as well as an extensive menu of massages and beauty treatments too.
    For more information visit palladiumhotelgroup.com. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Video: Sheikha Hissa Al Maktoum celebrates major victory at UK racing event

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    1 minute ago

    The Dubai royal family is known for their affinity and passion for horses, some of which has largely been shaped by the late His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the former Deputy Ruler of Dubai.
    The late sheikh was also the founder of Shadwell Racing, a global racing and breeding enterprise involving both Thoroughbred and Arabian horses, which has seen success worldwide.
    His Highness’ legacy lived on at the recent Sussex Stakes in the UK, where stallion Baaeed was victorious and is regarded as perhaps one of the best racehorses in the world.

    The late sheikh’s daughter, Her Highness Sheikha Hissa bint Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, was at the race reverently watching on as Baaeed triumphantly crossed the finish line in Group 1.
    “For me and my family he means the world,” Sheikha Hissa told Racing TV following Baaeed’s victory, adding that it was a special moment to see the racehorse’s triumph, particularly as he’s from the lineage her later father bred.
    “It’s good to see one of our best horses coming from that lineage that my father worked hard on,” she said.

    Celebrating the victory of four-year-old Baaeed with Sheikh Hissa was jockey Jim Crowley and trainer William Haggas.
    Also close to Sheikha Hissa was her father, whom she paid tribute to with a badge of his photo on her pale pink abaya.
    We’re sure her father would be incredibly proud of his daughter as she continues to champion his legacy.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images/Media: Instagram More

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    5 Things Successful Women Do Before Bedtime

    We all know what we shouldn’t be doing during our bedtime routine: losing all track of time on TikTok, abandoning our skincare regimen, drinking caffeine, texting our ex, etc. These things don’t set us up for the get-up-and-go energy we need the following day, and when we have things to do and goals to meet, who has the time for that?
    I love a productive morning routine as much as the next girl, but let’s not forget that a bedtime routine that prepares you for the next day is just as important—if not more. By adding in just a few things before bed, you can get miles ahead of where you would be otherwise come morning. But what are some steps we can take to set ourselves up for success instead of scrolling Instagram? I’m glad you asked—because we’re diving into the five things successful women do before they hit the sheets.

    1. Unwind
    We spend all day long responding to emails, answering our coworkers, completing tasks, and doing #allthethings that by the end of the night, a deep breath is not only well deserved but is needed for overall well-being. Can I get an amen?
    To increase rest and relief, we love to incorporate products from our favorite CBD brand, Equilibria, while we unwind. CBD can help regulate mood, reduce stress, and leave you feeling more balanced overall, so Equilibria’s Rapid Calming Melts, Daily Drops, Mindful Mineral Soak, and Sleep Gummies are just a few of the products that our editors are constantly reaching for to make the most of their unwind routines.
    + There’s no better time to stock up on CBD than right now because Equilibria is having a FLASH SALE—score 50% off of CBD subscriptions with code THEEVERYGIRL50, 20% off sitewide with code THEEVERYGIRL, a free tote with the first 200 orders, and free Mini Pear Gummies with purchases made within 48 hours!  

    Equilibria
    Daily Drops
    These best-selling CBD drops get to work within 10-30 minutes, so take some at the start of your bedtime routine to increase relaxation and shake off any stress from the day while you unwind.
    Choose between unflavored or mint drops.
    FLASH SALE: Score 50% off of CBD subscriptions with code THEEVERYGIRL50, 20% off sitewide with code THEEVERYGIRL, a free tote with the first 200 orders, and free Mini Pear Gummies with purchases made within 48 hours! 

    Equilibria
    Mindful Mineral Soak
    This powerful soak is infused with 200mg of full-spectrum, premium CBD to purify and destress. Simply pour into a warm bath, relax, and enjoy the benefits. Trust us, you’ll sleep like a baby after.
    FLASH SALE: Score 50% off of CBD subscriptions with code THEEVERYGIRL50, 20% off sitewide with code THEEVERYGIRL, a free tote with the first 200 orders, and free Mini Pear Gummies with purchases made within 48 hours! 

    Equilibria
    Sleep Gummies
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    2. Tidy Up
    A clear space is a clear mind. Who’s with me? Before you head to bed, spend 10-15 minutes tidying your main living spaces (kitchen, living room, bathroom, and bedroom). I am not telling you to go into full-on Marie Kondo mode, but her philosophy rings true even in small ways: When you declutter, you create room for clarity. By putting away dishes that are in the sink, straightening up any loose papers or mail that are cluttering the countertops, pushing in chairs, folding blankets in the living room, etc., you will feel fresh waking up in the morning instead of distracted by the piles of items laying around that you’ll have to get to later.
    Plus, when you do a little bit of tidying every night, you’ll prevent bigger messes from piling up, and this will ultimately save you from an entire afternoon of cleaning over the weekend—praise.  Tip: If something will take 60 seconds or less to put away, do it right then and there. Right before bed is not the time to reorganize your junk drawer, but it is the time to put rogue pens that are sitting on the counter back in the junk drawer. 

    3. Make a To-Do List
    No more making mental to-do lists while you’re laying in bed at night. Instead, spend a few minutes during your bedtime routine writing down what you know you need to tackle the next day before you hit the sheets. Jot down everything that comes to mind (putting pen to paper is my preferred way of doing this, but if you prefer to use an app, go for it!), even if it’s as small as “buy paper towels,” so you can prioritize even the smallest tasks that need to be handled the following day.
    Not only does making a physical list or brain dumping help you get more restful sleep because you’re not kept awake by the thoughts of your growing to-do list, but when you have a better understanding of what needs to be done in your work life and personal life, you are more likely to 1) actually get them done and 2) not feel like you’re scrambling around to check all the boxes.

    4. Set Out Clothes
    Headed to a workout in the morning? Set out your matching set. Have an early meeting to get to? Set out your cool-girl office outfit. Especially if you find yourself spending far too long picking out what to wear (guilty) and running out the door because of it, this tip will totally transform the start of your day.
    Before bed, review your to-do list and your meeting schedule, and check the weather. What outfit will be the most put-together, professional, and practical? For example, if you work in the city and will be walking to a few meetings, plan your outfit around a supportive yet stylish pair of sneakers or slip-ons. This will prevent you from grabbing sandals in the morning and ending the day with swollen feet and blisters. No thank you.
    Spend 10 minutes during your bedtime routine choosing your outfit, and leave nothing for question. Set everything out from your socks (because no one likes searching for those at 6 a.m.) to your jewelry. If you want to take this a step further, get your bag together too, so you’re less likely to forget something in the morning.

    5. Unplug
    The end of the night is when you should be spending time relaxing and recharging, so by all means, put your phone away, or at the very least, turn it on “Do Not Disturb.” The saying is true: You can’t pour from an empty cup. When you want to show up as the best version of yourself, you need to show up for yourself first. This means that late-night text messages, emails, and to-dos that didn’t get done during the day can be handled in the morning. Make unplugging a priority so you don’t end up feeling depleted by the end of the week.
    Channel your inner zen-girl by kicking your feet up and watching your favorite show on streaming, turning the pages of another book on your TBR list, or listening to an episode of a podcast. Spending an hour or two (or more if you’re lucky!) before heading to bed doing nothing other than what brings you joy will restore the energy you need to hit the ground running in the morning.

    Sleep Is the New Self-Care: Here’s How You Should Upgrade Your Routine

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