Raphael Stevens

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    in lifestyle and culture

    Mohamed Hadid: ‘I was 9 days old when me and my family were refugees’

    While he has reached incredible successes with his businesses and number of entrepreneurial ventures, it hasn’t been an easy journey for Mohamed Hadid.
    In a candid Instagram post, Hadid reflected on his childhood hardships having to flee his home country when he was just a baby, and becoming a refugee along with his other family members.

    Sharing a picture from his younger years, Hadid explained that he doesn’t have “a single picture of me [as] when I was a baby I was just about 9 days old when I and my family were refugees to the refugee camps in Syria from Palestine”.

    He shared his thanks to Syria, Lebanon and Tunisia and most of all Jordan, where he and his family received Jordanian citizenship many years ago.
    He also shared his gratitude for being able to relocate to the USA with his family.
    “I thank my father and mother for their focus to bring us to this beautiful land this country USA and I’m honoured to be an American and I honour my mother country and a pain in my heart for the suffering of the Palestinian people and I am forever a proud of my beloved Palestine where I was born,” he added.
    Hadid has gone on to build a somewhat of an empire for himself and is also the father of two supermodels – Gigi Hadid and Bella Hadid.
    However, it’s clear the 72-year-old never wants to forget where he came from.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Mohamed Hadid Instagram, Feature Image: Getty More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    Nike has launched the first swim clinic for women in Dubai

    In a groundbreaking move for the region, Nike has announced the launch of the first swim clinic for women in Dubai.
    The new facility is set to be led by Olympian swimmer, Rower and Triathlete Sarra Lajnef, and comes after the activewear brand released its new empowering campaign ‘You Can’t Stop Us’.

    The new initiative is also in line with the annual Dubai Fitness Challenge which is spearheaded by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai. The female-centric swim clinic launched on November 1 and will run until November 28, with daily classes being available for swimmers of all levels.

    Discussing the new initiative, Olympian Lajnef shared her pride in a statement.
    “I am extremely thrilled at the opportunity to drive Nike’s first-ever swim clinic forward,” she said. “Ever since I was four years old, I have found true salvation and freedom in water and this is something I want other women to experience too.
    “I have always been very passionate about swimming and being able to coach others and introduce them to this beautiful sport is something that brings me immense joy and excitement.”
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied/Instagram More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    New UAE laws: Unmarried couples can now live together

    There have been some amendments to laws in the United Arab Emirates, which hope to improve the living standards for those who are expats in the country.

    Per The National, the changes to laws made by the UAE government include unmarried couples living together, women’s rights, alcohol consumption and divorce and all come in to force effective immediately.
    Unmarried couples are reportedly now allowed to live together without facing any legal repercussions.
    Moreover, consuming alcohol is no longer a legal offence and alcohol licenses are no longer needed for residents to have in order to drink alcohol in a private space. However, it should be noted anyone drinking alcohol must be over the age of 21.
    As for laws surrounding women’s rights, there will be stricter punishments for men who are seen to be harassing women and there are now also tougher publishments for someone who commits an act of rape.
    It has also been stipulated that those who divorce in the UAE, it will be the country where the marriage took place that will determine the personal and financial terms of the marriage contract.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Unsplash More

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    in beauty and fashion

    25 Pick-Me-Ups You Can Order Now and Use Next Week

    I rarely look to retail therapy, but when it works, it works. You don’t have to buy a Chanel bag every time you get stressed at work, but a mere $10 new candle can have quite the impact on your mood (if even for a short period of time). I’m all for free acts of self-care, but if you want to upgrade your life just a little bit, these small gifts to yourself fit the bill. They’re the kind of purchase future you will thank you for. Get a head start on a better next week by adding a few of these to your cart.

    Nécessaire
    The Sex Gel

    A fancy lube is the exact life upgrade I need. It’s so cute, I might even leave it out. *gasp!*

    PLANT Apothecary
    Start Happy Organic Body Wash

    This editor-favorite body wash is everything you want: it smells good, it doesn’t dry out your skin, and it’s not a million dollars. Plus, this Black-owned brand is also clean, so you can feel good about the products you’re putting on your skin.

    Essie Expressie
    Quick-Dry Nail Polish

    Give yourself an at-home manicure in a seasonal shade or your classic neutral. The Expressie line is one of my favorites because the polishes look high-quality and dry exponentially fast—a plus for impatient polishers everywhere.

    Equilibria
    Balance Bath Bombs

    A cozy bath is a dream at the end of a long day, and these luxe CBD bath bombs make it feel like a spa night without leaving your home. Our editors swear by these for the best sleep ever!
    Use code EVERYGIRL for 20 percent off your first order!

    Olive & June
    Shooting Stars Nail Art Stickers

    Ready to up your manicure game? These nail stickers are so easy to use and under $10. No one will know you didn’t magically become a nail pro during quarantine.

    Rattan Sandalwood Vegan Candle

    This is my current favorite candle. The scent is lightly fall because of the cozy woodsy/sexy scent, but you could easily burn it all year round. The throw is great (I burn it and smell it throughout my whole apartment AKA a mere 300 square feet LOL), and it never tunnels for me, burning evenly and cleanly.

    Out of Trouble 10 Minute Mask

    A 10-minute mask that targets breakouts, irritation, dryness, oil, AND dullness? Perhaps I’ll stock up on no less than eight tubes.

    Pore Treatment Strips

    These are my new obsession, and I am lusting after them like crazy. Ever since I watched this video, I think about them every single time I look at my pores and blackheads in the mirror. They’re a bit of a splurge for pore strips, but this comes with eight different strips to use on the days your skin is the most congested.

    American Eagle
    Strappy Back Sports Bra

    Two of our editors (including me, the person writing this; she goes by Beth) tried this sports brarecently, and both called it an absolute winner. It’s comfortable and somewhat modest without pushing your boobs down and hiding them from the world. We love it for working out and for lounging!

    Rare Beauty
    Soft Pinch Liquid Blush

    Since I started working from home, blush has become my favorite beauty product ever. It’s surprising how much better I look on a Zoom call when I pop a little bit of blush on my cheeks. You can wear no other makeup, and blush just makes you look alive and well. This is a new favorite in my arsenal for its high-pigment and blendable formula.

    Safe and Fair
    Snack Bundle

    What’s a better pick-me-up than some really awesome snacks? This is a mix of my favorites from Safe + Fair, a company that makes snacks without the top 16 food allergens. The Pea Protein Chips are my favorite chips of all time—seriously, I would give up Doritos if I had a constant supply of this in my home, but their Drizzled Popcorn is another staple in my cabinet for movie nights and for a fun snack while working from home.

    Real Men Kit Hardcover Book

    What better way to cozy up than with a new book? Thrillers are good and all, but sometimes I just want something with a little love. This book follows Jesse after his foster-turned-adoptive mother dies, leaving him and his brothers her knitting shop in Harlem. Jesse wants to keep it open while his brothers want to close the doors, so he enlists the help of part-time shop employee Kerry to learn the ins and outs of the business… and of course, she has a secret crush on him. It’s the cozy romcom you’ve been dreaming of.

    Pottery Barn
    Velvet Pom Pom Slippers

    The criss-cross fuzzy slipper was a major player in 2019, but I’m calling these 2020’s answer. I’m an Instagram girl, what can I say? And these are close-toe, meaning I’ll never have to stress that anyone can see my disgusting unpainted toenails when I snap an inevitable pic with my hot cocoa or while I’m watching holiday movies on end this year.

    Range Beauty
    True Intentions Hydrating Foundation

    Glowy, flawless skin just feels good. When you catch those little glimpses in the mirror throughout the day and your skin just looks *heart eyes*?! It’s life’s little pleasures. This Black-owned brand has been on my radar for a while now, and their hit foundation just launched at Target!

    BYBI Beauty
    Blueberry Oil Booster

    After staring at a computer screen on end for the better part of the last eight months, we can’t help but wonder what all of this extra screen time could be doing to our skin. This affordable facial oil is made of 100 percent cold-pressed blueberry seed oil, which is said to reduce the negative effects of blue light on the skin by blocking the light before it penetrates the skin. Our editor uses this in her skincare routine every morning!

    Jordan’s Skinny Syrups
    Happy Holidays Gourmet Coffee Syrup Trio

    Once I found these coffee syrups, I broke whatever was left of a Starbucks habit for good. I make amazing coffee every single morning with these, and I love that they’re not filled with sugar because they don’t taste like my teeth will fall out at any moment. Trust me: “Christmas Cookie” is going to be a staple in my kitchen until approximately June 2021. Don’t love holiday scents? Might I introduce you to this staple set instead.

    Satin Face Mask

    A gorgeous face mask that makes you feel like a million bucks when you step out of your apartment for the first time in 10 days? Sign me the heck up.

    Vicks VapoShower
    Shower Bomb Tablets

    Did your grandma tout the miracles of Vicks VapoRub like mine? I was convinced it would cure my acne, period cramps, mosquito bites, broken hearts, headaches, and everything in-between. This is a new find that I think will save my sinuses come December when my allergies are out of whack. Don’t have time for a luxe bath with your CBD bath bombs? No worries, pop one of these in the shower for a steamy, sinus-clearing experience.

    Stella & Haas
    The Simone Huggie

    A fun, new spin on your classic gold hoops will live in your wardrobe for years—and always bring you a little extra joy. I mean, look—they’re so cute!

    Dream Coat Supernatural Spray

    If sleek, shiny hair is your goal, add Dream Coat to cart ASAP. Hairstylists swear by this product for that glass hair look. Use it all over your hair before heat-styling (it has to be activated by heat!), and see your strands glisten and glow!

    Glass Water Bottle with Protective Silicone Sleeve

    Our editor got this water bottle recently, and I haven’t seen her drink out of a single other vessel since. Not only is this water bottle chic and sophisticated, but it keeps water and other beverages cold. Plus, the silicone makes it easy to carry without worrying you’ll drop it—my absolute biggest fear as a reformed klutz.

    McBride Sisters
    Black Girl Magic 2018 California Red Blend

    What’s a night in without some adult libations?! We love red in the fall and winter, and this bold, sexy red blend (with notes of tobacco, vanilla, raspberry, plum, and blackberry) has our names written all over it.

    Golden Pulse Facial Massager

    Don’t leave all your facial massaging to your hands. This vibrating T-bar facial massager is a luxurious addition to your skincare collection, but it’s actually so affordable. Facial massage is great for your skin, but for me, it’s a practice that saves my mental health and helps me fall asleep more easily at night (and that’s on anxiety!).

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  • 75 Shares

    in beauty and fashion

    How My Hair Shaped My Identity

    One of my favorite things about my look is my pixie cut. If you asked me to describe it, I would say: short, edgy, and professional. As a disabled woman, it’s effortless and time-effective. I have the advantage of waking up and not having to brush my hair if my bedhead isn’t too visible. Some days I add a little style, but I love having a hairstyle where it’s easy to manage. My ultimate hair goal, however, is to shave my head and have a buzzcut. Jazzmyne Jay, a BuzzFeed content creator, is my inspiration; she’s given me the courage to experiment with fashion. I’ve wanted to do it for a while; I’ve just been waiting for the right time.
    Honestly, I’ve been waiting for an accepting work environment. I want to work in an environment where diversity is valued, where there is an open-mindedness to individuals who have disabilities and endure mental illness, and where there are strong core values and beliefs; where these things are instilled in the company. In the past few years, I’ve been trying to live intentionally. I’ve always been authentic in who I am, but I’ve tried to be more intentional these last few years with everything that I’ve been through. It’s hard to go into spaces where you are accepted, however, you feel that you still have to hold back a part of your identity, or when you have to hide your entire identity because you are not sure of the reaction, especially in this political climate where you’re often discriminated against for being LGBTQ+. 

    In the past few years, I’ve been trying to live intentionally. I’ve always been authentic in who I am, but I’ve tried to be more intentional these last few years with everything that I’ve been through.

    Chopping off all your hair is a way for you to start afresh and emerge a new person. I feel rejuvenated and on lighter feet after every cut. My hair wasn’t weighing me down anymore. Look at it this way: it’s like when a caterpillar becomes a butterfly. Each haircut is as if I’m escaping from all of the anxiety and the depression that has happened since the last haircut to start a new season.
    Society pushes many stereotypes about the short-haired woman: she’s damaged, she’s aggressive, she’s manly, she must be a lesbian. As a society, we attach so many parts of a person’s identity to their hair: their sexuality, history, gender, and even personality, and when women have short hair, people tend to think of that as almost being political. She’s making a statement. Long hair is depicted as feminine and beautiful, whereas short hair is not. 

    Look at it this way: it’s like when a caterpillar becomes a butterfly. Each haircut is as if I’m escaping from all of the anxiety and the depression that has happened since the last haircut to start a new season.

    As an individual with a disability (I have cerebral palsy and hemiplegia), I do not have the use of my right arm. Because of this, I have difficulty styling my hair, and what began as a move for more independence became a move for self-expression. I had long hair up until college, when I started getting pixie cuts. In high school, I’d had to ask my family to help me style my hair (ponytails, braids, etc.). On my own, I could get at best pin the bangs out of my face. Disabled women’s hair is just seen as yet another inconvenience in terms of independence, and at times we aren’t even given a choice around our hair length and style.
    When I attempted to pull my hair into a ponytail by myself, I ultimately failed. I had to deal with loose long hair in all weather and environments. I loved my long hair, and it was beautiful, but it was a source of inconvenience and discomfort. I’m never going to fit into a box. I’m never going to fit under a label; I’m never going to be anything anybody wants me to be, I’m always evolving. I’m all about breaking boundaries. Breaking barriers, breaking labels, and allowing myself to be free.
    And that’s what my short hair is to me. More

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    in health and weelbeing

    Sex Bucket List: 5 Updates to Make for Your Sex Life, Pronto

    I stand by that one of the best thing you can do for your sex life, with or without a partner, is creating a sex bucket list. Having an ongoing list of everything you’d like to try or do sexually can help keep your sex life spicy and full of experiences you actually are interested in. If you’re getting started on a sex bucket list, start here. But if you’re ready to incorporate some new-and-improved additions or changes (I’m all for editing your bucket list as time goes on—what you wanted a few years ago is probably a little different from now!), these are my suggestions. 
    1. Rearrange the furniture
    We all know it’s a good practice to try sex outside of the bed or bedroom sometimes, but to switch it up even more, you can move some furniture around to make your space work for you. Mirror play is one of the most underrated sex toys in the bedroom. If you have a full-length mirror or a vanity mirror in your bedroom or home somewhere, use it your advantage. Move the mirror so that you and your partner can both see each other in it while you’re having sex. The view will turn you both on a little more, and it might spark some new ideas and positions to try. 
    Along with mirror play, you can also pull the couch out a little or move side tables and coffee tables to try different positions and moves throughout the house. You’re not confined to a few spaces when it comes to sex. Make it up as you go!

    2. Try a new form of sexting
    If you’ve long been turned off by sexting because you don’t like sharing naked photos or your dirty talk game is less than impressive (it’s a learned skill, I promise!), there are so many other ways to approach it that can completely boost your sex life. Even if you love sexting, you can try it in a few different ways to keep it new and interesting. Obviously, sending nudes and a little dirty talk are always an option, but a really fun way to try might be role-playing. Tell your partner exactly what would be happening if you were together. “You’re on the bed, I’m standing next to you. I start to undress, and you grab my hips.” It’s a little more work, but it really plays it out like the two of you are together. Then, you can reenact this in the future! 
    I also love simple “I’m thinking about you” or “You look hot today” texts throughout the day. They’re safe for work but are a little, exciting way to get you excited.

    3. Find your go-to sex toy 
    One of the most underrated items on our TEG sex bucket list is going to a sex shop with a partner. It might feel a little awkward, and you’ll probably giggle at first, but it’s actually a really great way to see what intrigues or excites the both of you when you set your mind to finding something that will benefit you together. Obviously, that isn’t necessarily possible right now, so instead, you might find it helpful to begin searching for your go-to #1 favorite that you both enjoy using, together and alone. We have tons of guides on vibrators and sex toys for partners, but you might also enjoy talking it out, figuring out what you’d both like, and spending some time on a few different sites. 

    4. Try to push your orgasms farther
    So, you had an orgasm on your own. YAY! Next, you can focus on pushing them to go longer and maybe even have multiple at a time (the absolute dream). It might be easiest to try this alone first and then bring a partner in on the fun, but you can try it however is easiest for you. Orgasms tend to feel even better the longer you let your body relax and allow yourself to really feel them. The next time you feel an orgasm coming on, try to keep it going instead of stopping whatever motion or toy you’re using. It might feel intense for a second, but it’ll lead to better, longer, and stronger orgasms over time.

    5. Ask your partner questions
    When you and your partner decide to engage in a conversation about fantasies and trying new things, make sure to ask them questions. Do they watch porn? What do they watch? What is their favorite color to see you wear? What’s their favorite position? Do they prefer sex in the bedroom or outside of the bedroom? This might seem a little juvenile, especially if you’ve been together for a while, but it’s a good practice to make sure you know more about what they want and like, and of course, they should reciprocate and ask you questions too. As cliche as it may seem, a good sex life really comes down to communication.  More

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    in beauty and fashion

    Say ‘Hello’ to My New Favorite Puffer Coats—and They’re on Sale RN

    During one of the last chilly weeks of winter this year, my beloved parka—which I had worn every day of every winter since freshman year of college—got a giant rip down the side. It was time; I had worn it literally to its death, and since it was about to be warm out, I figured it was a problem I could deal with later in the year.Cut to a few weeks ago: the first actually cold day in Chicago, when I went to my closet to bundle up and found myself coatless. I layered up and began my search for the next parka that I wanted to wear for years and years; one that could replace the perfect one that I loved so much. It needed to be somewhat affordable, super warm (if you’ve never experienced a Chicago winter, well, consider yourself lucky), and make me want to put it on every day. The contest began.
    In an answer to my chilled-to-the-bone prayers, I saw that Abercrombie was having a 40 percent off sale for all of their coats and puffers. Chicago temperatures require a couple of different outwear options, and since they were on such a big sale, I tried a few to see if I could find an addition or two to my winter wardrobe.

    The mini puffer

    So, here’s the problem with Chicago weather: one day it is -30 degrees and snowing, and the next it could easily be 40 or warmer, which means that not having a lighter-weight coat option isn’t really an option. This mini puffer feels ultra cool and provides warmth without making me sweat bullets on warmer winter days. It comes in tons of super cool materials and colors (hello faux leather), but this camel sherpa one called my name. I ordered a medium to have a bit more room, and I am completely obsessed. I love that I feel I can wear this with a sweatshirt and leggings or a cute outfit and that it could make both feel a little bit cooler.

    The puffer vest

    A couple of weeks ago, I saw a girl at my Starbucks wearing a puffer vest, and it stuck in my mind; it made me want to get back into the vests that I had back in college to throw on for casual days. This is exactly how I pictured wearing it: with jeans or leggings, a sweatshirt, my snowboots, and a hat (or over my workout gear for runs on chilly days). Is it the warmest thing in the world? Of course not, it’s a vest, but it’s something I’m happy to welcome back into my collection for fall and winter.

    The Ultra Mid-Length Puffer

    When I saw this coat, I audibly gasped. When you’re wearing a coat every day for months and months, it doesn’t hurt for it to be cool, and I have never seen one cooler than this. I love both the color and the vegan leather—it makes me not dread putting on a coat because it’s a look in itself. It is also indescribably warm, which is something I didn’t expect.
    I am 5’5″ and am wearing a small here, and it feels like I still have plenty of room to wear sweaters or sweatshirts underneath. 

    The Everyday Parka

    This was the test of tests; the coat I intended to be my real parka for winter—for the days that are below 0. Since my old parka was black, I decided to switch it up and opt for olive green, and I couldn’t love it more. It is so warm and waterproof and is the perfect length for keeping comfortable on really cold days. I can see myself on the train to the office (on some future glorious day) and running errands and just living my winter life in this, happily. This is also a size small, which still has plenty of room underneath, and I would say runs true to size. If you see winter Maddie anytime soon, she will be wearing this. 

    Shop all of Abercrombie’s coat and puffer sale:

      More

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    in health and weelbeing

    One of the Most Important Things You Can Do for Your Health Each Month

    How are you taking care of yourself lately? Working from home may have given us a bit of Zoom fatigue, but don’t let the new normal stop you from prioritizing your health. Check in on yourself to make sure you’re drinking enough water, taking a second away from work to breathe, and going on that daily walk. Oh also, have you checked your breast for lumps? Yes, taking a peek at your breasts for any lumps or abnormal coloring is essential for your health. Doctors recommend that adult women of all ages should perform a breast self-exam once a month. One out of every eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer, and more than 40,000 women are estimated to die from the disease in 2020 alone. In addition to getting a mammogram, let’s open our eyes to the urgency of self-checking for signs and symptoms of breast cancer at home.

    When to start your self-exam
    Checking for lumps on your breasts can be as easy as brushing your teeth or following your every day skin care routine. The best time to perform a breast self-exam is about 3-5 days after your period, because your breasts will least likely be swollen or tender. While it might seem overwhelming at first, these steps can help reduce your risk of breast cancer, and it will become a breeze once you self-exam once a month. For women who are going through menopause, start the breast self-exam on the same day of each month. 

     What to look for: 

    Source: rawpixel

    Look for visual changes in front of a mirror
    Start by standing in front of a mirror with your arms relaxed by your sides, then shift your arms overhead to inspect again. Next, rest your hands on your hips and flex your chest to evaluate one more time. These different steps will help examine your breasts and nipples for any changes.

    Feel for lumps in the shower
    Checking for symptoms in the shower is easy. Use the soft pad of your three middle fingers to feel your breasts. You want to start gently in a circular motion at the outer edge of the breast, and work your way toward the nipple. Repeat this motion on both breasts using a medium and firm pressure. You want to feel for any lump, thickening, hardened knot or any other breast changes.  

    Inspect while lying down
    Place a pillow under your right shoulder and use your right hand to hold your head. With your left hand, use the soft pad of your three middle fingers to feel all around your breasts. Also, gently squeeze the nipple to check for any discharge. 

    Talk to your doctor
    Don’t panic if you find a lump! Most breast lumps are non-cancerous, which is why you should talk to your doctor first after your self-examination. Once you’ve found the lump, grab a marker or pen to mark a X on the spot to identify the location when it’s time to show your physician.

    Reduce your risk of breast cancer
    Risk factors such as family history can’t change, but there are lifestyle changes you can make to lower your risk. 

    Physical activity and exercise
    For women who are overweight or obese, excess fat can increase the the body’s estrogen level. Studies suggest that high levels of estrogen may increase your risk of breast cancer. Moving your body and incorporating a healthier diet might help lower that particular risk.

    Avoid or limit drinking
    Repeated observational studies have found that there could be a connection between drinking alcohol and an increased cancer risk, but researchers aren’t exactly sure why (though they do have some ideas). If you don’t want to give up drinking entirely, cutting back can help keep you healthier.

    Stop smoking
    Research has shown that smoking can damage the lungs and is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer in younger, premenopausal women. When you’re ready to stop smoking, get as much support as you need and avoid triggers. 

    Eat a healthy diet
    Improving your diet can be a big step to a healthier lifestyle. Eating a variety of foods and trying to eat more fruits and vegetables (they don’t have to be fresh!) can help you up the nutrients you’re getting. Focusing on a balanced diet may help lower your risk of cancer—and it’ll definitely boost your overall health. 

    Know your body
    Self-care is incredibly valuable for your physical and mental well-being. Even though we all lead busy lives, it’s important to set some time for yourself and truly take good care—and that includes preventative health to-do’s like knowing what’s normal for your body. Whether it’s one hour or even just a few minutes in the day, take the time to understand, love, and care for your body. Knowing what’s normal can help you more easily pick up on changes, which could end up being nothing, but are important to keep an eye on and bring up with your doctor.

    Get informed about your health
    Talk to your doctor about any medical questions or concerns that you may have. You can always ask them whatever questions you need, even if you think the question is “dumb” (we can pretty much assure you that it’s not). If you’re not sure whether or not you’ll remember any questions you might have, write them down and bring them with you. And if you’re concerned that you won’t have questions immediately, but will have some after your appointment is over, ask your doctor how you can best ask those questions so that you’ll get the answers you need. As you get older, your body changes, and it’s OK to speak to a physician about your healthcare needs.

    Make an appointment for a mammogram
    In addition to your self breast exam, you need to prepare for a mammogram with your physician. According to the American Cancer Society, women ages 40-44 should start getting a breast cancer screening every year if they’d like to, but those ages 45 and above should get one each year.

    Note to self: check your breasts
    Setting a reminder every month on your phone or daily planner can help you early detect any signs or symptoms of breast cancer. If you know your body and check your breasts regularly, you’ll be able to catch on to any changes sooner rather than later. For any concerns or questions about your health, make an appointment to speak with your doctor. 

    Check out the resources below to learn more about breast cancer:
    National Cancer Institute 
    The American Cancer Society
    American Breast Cancer Foundation
    National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.
    Breast Cancer Now More