Raphael Stevens

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    in health and weelbeing

    6 Simple Ways to Have Better Posture at Your Desk

    You’re probably currently sitting at your desk reading this, blissfully unaware of your posture right now—and that’s perfectly normal. It can be difficult to always be mindful of your posture, especially during a hectic workday through hours of Zoom meetings and conference calls.Your posture is a very important indicator of your overall health, as it supports blood flow, improves your mood, increases your confidence, and strengthens your other muscles and joints. Practicing better posture while at your desk at work or at home, even in the smallest ways, is a great way to be mindful of your health on a daily basis, and there are a few quick ways you can improve your posture as you go along your workday. Give your posture some attention and work smarter, not harder, at your desk.  

    1. Switch up your seating 
    Your seating can make or break your posture—literally. Seating with little to no back support, worn-out chairs, and working from your couch or bed could wear on your body over time, straining your shoulders, spine, and lower back. 
    If your desk chair doesn’t have the support you need to sit comfortably and in an upright position for an hour or two at a time, you may need to switch up your seating. A good, ergonomic chair for your workspace will have lumbar support to help the middle of your back, where most of the tension goes when you’re hunched over your desk. You also want to pick a chair that keeps your body at a neutral, upright position with an adequate seat height that keeps your arms and legs leveled and a backrest that isn’t too firm or too soft. 
    If you’re now working from home, make sure to be mindful of where and how you’re sitting. Set up your own workspace with a desk and chair that supports your back and shoulders and promotes better posture over time.

    2. Take frequent stretch breaks 
    Spending hours upon hours every day in a seated position where your back is either slouched or hunched over is detrimental to your posture. Many health professionals have declared that sitting has now become the new smoking, a popular myth that compares the negative chronic health effects of both, such as weight gain and diabetes.
    Prolonged sitting can have long-lasting effects on not only your back, but on your overall health. Make it a priority to get up and move around on a regular basis throughout your workday to give your body some relief from sitting and staring at a screen all day. Put yourself on a daily schedule to get some time away from the desk to give your back a break from sitting in an upright position, putting more pressure on your spine. It’s easy to get wrapped up in your workday and forget to move, so set an alert on your work calendar or on your phone as a regular reminder to take a break and switch up your posture by taking a walk, standing briefly in between meetings, stretching, or getting a quick exercise in. 

    Source: Danielle Moss

    3. Exercise for better posture
    When we exercise, we often forget to exercise for better posture, especially as working from home becomes more prevalent. Your posture is key to better overall health, and taking out the time to focus on it during your workday can help prevent lifelong body issues. 
    Exercising throughout the workday for better posture can be as simple as standing upright for an hour or two at a time at your desk, stretching and rotating your neck to relieve some of the tension from hours of working, or getting a good back bend at the waist to loosen up that lower back. Give yourself a few small breaks during the workday to work out those kinks in your shoulders, neck, and back from sitting too long, and focus on exercises specifically for those areas. 

    4. Keep your workspace eye level
    Hunching over your desk to look at your laptop or to type is one of the key indicators of poor posture. If your laptop or desktop computer isn’t eye level, it makes it easy to slouch and get stuck working that way for hours. 
    Do an overall assessment of your workspace, including your laptop, your monitor, your desk, and your computer accessories like your keyboard and mouse to make sure they are level to your eyesight and body to ensure that you’re not straining your neck, shoulders, and back to use your devices. Your workspace should be at a comfortable level, but upright enough where your posture isn’t compromised. Switch up the positioning of your workspace so that it makes it easier to sit upright while still being effective throughout the day. If you work remotely or from home, find a better place to set up your workspace like on a high bar-style countertop where you can easily sit in an upright position, or even stand and work for a change of pace. 

    Source: Jenny Komenda | Juniper Studio

    5. Practice mindfulness of your posture 
    It can be difficult to take a lunch break or grab a second cup of coffee during the workday when you’re juggling emails and meetings, let alone be actively aware of how your body feels. Taking the time out to connect with your body every so often throughout the day to see how it feels can seem like another item for your to-do list, but your back most importantly will thank you for it! 
    Practice being mindful of your posture throughout the workday by setting frequent reminders on your phone to check in with your body. There are plenty of mindfulness apps that can help you break away from your work mentally for a few minutes to give your body and mind a quick check-up. Block off time in your work calendar to check in with yourself, your posture, your mood, and your overall body. Scheduling time on your work calendar helps you stay accountable to yourself and your health. 
    Use this mindfulness to be more aware of your posture on a daily basis and when you place the most tension on your back. Do you find that your posture suffers during long Zoom meetings? Are you sitting for more than 2-3 hours at a time in the mornings or afternoons? Take note daily of all of your workspace habits and how it impacts your posture and your overall body. This will help you anticipate and be more mindful of your posture during the most stressful times of your day and prepare to change it up.

    6. Keep your feet flat on the floor 
    Your feet and their position while at your desk play a crucial role in your overall posture while sitting. If your feet are crossed or elevated, that could compromise your posture, as your weight is primarily on one leg or your back is taking the brunt of it. When your feet are flat on the floor and properly leveled, the weight of your body is evenly distributed across your hips. Keeping your feet flat on the floor also makes you more mindful of the overall stance of your body, as it unconsciously makes you straighten up.
    Practice keeping your feet fully on the floor for longer periods of time instead of elevating them using a footrest or crossing your legs at the knees underneath your desk. Planting your feet on the ground will help you be more aware of your posture and if you’re slouched or hunched over your desk. 

    Your posture is a key indicator of your body’s health during your workday. Don’t ignore any signs of back or shoulder pain; make it a point to take care of yourself while working, starting with your posture.  More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    Trust us, you deserve this fabulous ladies daycation deal

    If you have spare days off, put them to good use by spending time with your besties at one of the most popular resorts in Dubai.
    Re-charge and catch up on all the gossip (we thoroughly believe that chatting away is a form of self-care) at Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina that has recently introduced a ladies all-inclusive daycation deal.

    Your day away from it all begins with a vibrant and nourishing breakfast ay Bounty Beets. Tuck into the much-loved avocado toast, acai bowls and pancakes before heading to a deluxe skyline room, all yours for the day.

    We know you want to get down to the pool but the team at the hotel want to make sure that you’re completely at ease beforehand by offering an indulgent in-room spa treatment.
    Once you’ve changed into you Hunza G bikini, feel free to relax by the pool or beach for the rest of the day and don’t forget to grab a complimentary cocktail at Latitude 25.
    All there’s left to do is to switch off your notifications, perfect the selfie pout and celebrate pay week in style.
    Lady Daycation deal is priced at Dhs299 and is available Sunday to Thursday from 8am to 7pm. Call 043993333 to book.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    This is where Gigi Hadid reportedly gave birth

    From the moment the news of her pregnancy was made public, Gigi Hadid has kept things largely under wraps.
    From shying away from showing off her bump for quite a few months, to not talking a lot about her pregnancy and more, the model and her boyfriend Zayn Malik have chose not stay relatively quiet about the arrival of their first child.

    The couple announced the exciting news last week that their newborn daughter had arrived the weekend prior.
    Now the whereabouts of where the new parents welcomed their daughter has reportedly been revealed.

    According to Page Six, the 25-year-old gave birth “gave birth to her baby girl on her farm in rural Pennsylvania”. This is where she has been spending the majority of her time with Zayn throughout their self-isolation.

    It was thought that Gigi may be giving birth in New York City given that she and Zayn had been photographed there together in August, but it appears she was more rural than initially thought.
    The publication also reports that the newborn’s birth date was September 19, 2020.
    Gigi shared a new photo of her daughter – whose name hasn’t been announced as of yet – on Friday.
    In the picture, the new mum revealed the newborn’s outfit was gifted to her by designer Donatella Versace and singer Taylor Swift.
    Baby Hadid-Malik was wearing a Versace sweater from “auntie Donatella” and was also covered by a silk pink blanked from “auntie Taylor Swift”, which she made herself.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Gigi Hadid Instagram More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    One of Dubai’s most popular restaurants is opening its doors in Saudi Arabia

    We’ve already discussed the many Dubai restaurants that are set to go global next year. Well, now another one of the most popular restaurants in the emirate is set to expand elsewhere in the Middle East.
    Globally acclaimed restaurant Zuma is set to open its doors in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia along with sister restaurant Roka, which only opened in Dubai earlier this year prior to the pandemic.

    The parent company of the famous eateries, which originally opened in London in the early 2000s, Azumi Limited is partnering with Saudi-based MJS (Mohammed Jawa) Holding in order to spearhead the project, which also includes the openings of other Azumi brands Oblix, Inko Nito and Etaru.
    Azumi’s CEO Sven Koch shared his delight at finding a “like-minded partner” in Mohammed Jawa in order to continue to expand their international footprint.

    “The Kingdom is a fast-growing market and new for us, we are very proud to be taking this step with Mohammed,” Koch added. “He is a true operator and is hugely passionate about our brands.
    “This, combined with his innovative approach to business, means we aligned seamlessly. We are very honoured to be working with him.”
    Jawa also shared a similar sentiment of the announcement saying it was “a great honour and pleasure to be part of the Zuma family”.
    This announcement comes after it was confirmed Downtown Dubai-born La Serre – which opened in 2013 – announced it would be opening a Riyadh-based restaurant at the beginning of next year. It’s also set to open establishments in London and New York City.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

  • 138 Shares

    in beauty and fashion

    10 Affordable Trends to Wear With Your Skinny Jeans This Fall

    Skinny jeans: you know them, you love them, you wore them every day from 6th grade to 9th grade. No matter what denim trends come and go (mom jeans, boyfriend-fit, flared leg, etc.), you know that skinny pair in your closet will be there for you season after season, year after year. And since it is, after all, skinny-jeans-and-booties season, we put together 10 trends that pair perfectly with the slim silhouette to update your autumn uniform for 2020.These outfits are so good (and the trends are so affordable), we won’t blame you if your skinny jeans became second skin by December. Look cute, stay comfortable, and save your money for more important things (like PSLs and renting every Harry Potter movie from Amazon Video)–we’ve got you covered with the cutest, most affordable pieces to pair with your skinnies this season. 

    1. Sherpa Jacket

    Source: @crystalinmarie

    Is there anything cozier? We’d even go so far as to say that the sherpa jacket is the it-coat of the season. Luckily for our skinny jeans, the oversized nature of this fuzzy jacket pairs perfectly with a slim silhouette. Some of our favorite affordable brands are embracing the trend this season with versions that are high-quality and comfortable, but won’t break the bank. 

    2. Peasant Blouse

    Source: @fashion_jackson

    Whether the temperatures are already dropping or you live in year-round sunny weather, we’ll have the peasant blouse on repeat all season long. An ivory top with pretty ruffles, feminine details, and puffed sleeves is the perfect fall piece to wear on its own or under your go-to jacket. The ideal pairing for a peasant blouse? You guessed it: skinny jeans, which balance out the proportions of a voluminous top. 

    3. Jean Jacket

    Source: @chrissyford

    In case you missed the memo, head-to-toe denim is not just a killer Halloween couple’s costume (an ode to 2001 Britney and Justin, of course); it’s a fashion trend. The infamous Canadian tuxedo has made its way into the hearts of fashion girls like Chrissy Rutherford and celebrities like Bella Hadid. Keep your jacket slim fit and in the same wash as your skinny jeans for a sleek, sophisticated, and on-trend OOTD. 

    4. Puffed-Sleeved Sweaters

    Source: @raeannlangas

    Maybe it’s because we’ve been wearing loungewear for the past seven months in a row, but style stars are opting for luxe cashmere and warm knit with interesting details. Puffed-sleeves have become so popular, they just might be the #1 trend of fall 2020. And if you haven’t guessed it yet, the perfect pairing for voluminous details is a slim silhouette (AKA skinny jeans) to balance out proportions. Wear with knee-high boots for extra trend points.

     
    5. Trench Coat

    Source: @kayla_seah

    Ah, the trench coat: the piece that feels just as Parisian-chic as it is minimalist and cool. The lightweight (but warm) outerwear can be worn from the first day of fall until the last day of spring, making it the perfect investment piece. Luckily for our wallets, you don’t have to spend $$$ to score a high-quality trench. Pair the timeless piece with your skinniest jeans, heeled booties, and a simple tee (or knit when the weather gets cold). 

    6. Plaid Blazer

    Source: @gabbywhiten

    Forget boring black basics! This season, we’re channeling our inner Blair Waldorf (everybody has an inner Blair Waldorf) and switching out our plain work blazers for more stylish plaid versions. Wear with dark wash skinny jeans, loafers, and a thin turtleneck for a work outfit formula you’ll want to wear to the office every day (or when you need to look extra professional over Zoom). 

    7. Buttoned-Up Cardigan 

    Source: @meghandono

    Is it just me, or is every blogger, celebrity, and fashion girl wearing cardigans as shirts by buttoning up the front? Maybe it’s because we’ve outworn all of our pull-on sweaters, or maybe the style just looks so cute, but either way, I’m mad at myself that I didn’t think of this earlier. The best part about pairing this trend with your slimmest pair of pants is that you can opt for an oversized sweater to pair with booties, or wear a tighter, cropped cardigan with heels for a date night look. Either will go with skinny fit!

    8. Graphic Tee

    Source: Wait, You Need This

    Skinny jeans are not only the perfect basic pair of pants, but they serve as an ideal background for statement pieces. Graphic tees are one of our favorite go-to pieces to spice up any outfit while staying comfortable, and a pair of skinnies ensure all the attention is on the tee. Throw on a pair of booties and a blazer or jacket for a weather-appropriate OOTD.

    9. Bright Colors

    Source: @theplussizedprep

    That’s right: bright colors aren’t just for summer. As much as we love neutrals and plaid come fall, rich jewel tones are gorgeous for the season. Think emerald green, bright red, cerulean blue, and bright magenta. Look for them in accessories, sweaters, or floral blouses (because romantic florals are in for fall!). 

    10. Faux Fur

    Source: @stephanietrotta

    Starting September 1, all we want is to be warm and cozy. Lucky for us, faux fur is on-trend in a huge way. And lucky for our skinny jeans, nothing goes as well with an oversized fuzzy coat as a slim pair of jeans (but you already knew that, right?). Opt for a ripped pair to make any glam faux fur a little more casual, and wear with a cozy knit to be as warm as possible. 

    SHOP OUR FAVORITES:

    How are you styling your skinny jeans for fall? More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    Skip brunch for two and buy a property in Dubai instead

    Have you been toying with an idea of making Dubai your permanent home? Nothing says commitment like buying a property and millennial buyers, in particular, can benefit from the current market.

    According to experts, if you find your dream apartment that’s worth Dhs220,000 you could be paying back Dhs790 per month which is equivalent of two Friday brunches (or one brunch if you’re feeling flashy and go for a bubbly package). With the current mortgage interest rate of roughly 2.49 per cent, all you have to worry is the minimum down payment of 20 per cent and you can call yourself a property owner.
    Online platform Property Finder took a closer look at apartment prices across three key localities appealing to the millennial buyer – Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Lakes Towers – all being relatively new developments that took shape within the past two decades.
    Apartment prices currently sit at an average of Dhs400,000-450,000 for a studio apartment and AED 750,000-800,000 for a one-bedroom. In JVC you can expect to find a studio apartment at around Dhs220,000 while a one-bedroom can set you back Dhs300,000. Those dreaming of a Marina lifestyle can expect to pay around Dhs300,000 for a studio and Dhs350,000 for a one-bedroom while in JLT residents can expect studio apartments to go for Dhs340,000 and one-bedroom dwellings for Dhs370,000.
    If you can stretch to Dhs800,000, after the down payments and current mortgage rate, your monthly instalment will be around Dhs2,800 which is pretty competitive considering how much renters can be paying a month.
    While the prices and mortgage solutions have a significant role to play, getting on a property ladder in Dubai has never been easier.
    Earlier this month it was revealed that rent in Dubai has dropped by 13 per cent for apartments, while the market for villas has seen a 10 per cent decrease.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    6 rooftops that will give you the best views of Dubai

    Last week officially marked the end of summer in the UAE, which means we say goodbye to the sweltering heat and humidity and hello to the best weather.
    It also means we can finally sit outside to enjoy a meal, and the best way to do that is on one of the fabulous rooftops Dubai has to offer.

    EW has rounded up six of the best rooftop spots which will give you the ultimate views of the city, whilst enjoying a glorious meal in the company of your nearest and dearest.
    Mercury Lounge

    One of the chicest rooftops in all of Dubai has just reopened. With 360-degree views of the Dubai skyline, Burj Khalifa and Arabian Gulf, it’s safe to say Mercury Lounge at the Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach is one of the best rooftops to visit in Dubai.
    Enjoy the sunset with their aperitivo menu which is served daily from 6pm to 8:00 pm, and includes miniature bites with each drink ordered. Prices start at Dhs70.
    Ce La Vie

    For the ultimate views of the Burj Khalifa, you’ll be pleased to know Ce La Vie’s rooftop has officially reopened. The restaurant only opened earlier this year, but then had to quickly close again due to lockdown, so there’s a high chance you won’t have been able to enjoy the incredible panoramic views Ce La Vie has to offer. With views like this, along with their contemporary Asian menu, you can be rest assured you’ll be in for a good time.
    Treehouse

    This week on October 3, Treehouse will be removing its ‘greenhouse’ tent so punters can once again enjoy the rooftop views of the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai as the cooler weather arrives. Whether it’s a happy hour of autumn-inspired cocktails, a ladies’ night or a chilled Sunday with friends you’re looking for, this is the spot to go to.
    Iris Dubai

    This year we saw Iris relocate to DIFC temporarily, but you’ll be pleased to know that Iris returning to its iconic Meydan location. “Our signature cuisine, beverages, music, and even furniture have journeyed across the city, leaving a trail that leads us back home. It’s time to #ReturnToMeydan,” it was announced on Iris’ Instagram page. The famous Dubai hotspot is set to reopen on October 5 in Meydan.
    Paros

    While it’s only been open for just under a month, Paros has already been a huge hit. Located on the 46th floor of the Taj Jumeirah Lakes Towers, you get breathtaking views of Dubai Marina, JBR and beyond. With some fabulous deals on offer, it’s the perfect place to get together with friends.
    Atelier M

    With stunning views of the Dubai Marina and an amazing menu, Atelier M at Pier 7 is the ideal place for a romantic dinner or a get together with your girlfriends.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Images: Instagram/Supplied More

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    in lifestyle and culture

    This new UAE staycation deal is the perfect opportunity to escape the city

    In Partnership: As travel is largely on hold, we’re looking to the next best thing – a staycation.
    Luckily for those of us based in the UAE, we’ve got the whole country on our doorsteps making it easy for those based in the busy cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi to escape to the quieter emirates like Ras Al Khaimah.

    If you’re currently seeking a calm and quiet getaway then we may have found the ultimate deal just for you, and it’s just an hours drive from Dubai.
    Say hello to Rixos Bab Al Bahr in Ras Al Khaimah and their new ‘Suite Escape’ all-inclusive stay package.

    With 450m of sandy beaches, 14 restaurants and bars covering an array of different cuisines and 8 pools, we’re confident in saying this is the ideal place for a cityscape.
    The hotel’s new staycation deal gives the perfect opportunity for couples or families to take a midweek break as when you book a weekday stay of a minimum of two nights at any suite category will receive 15 per cent off the best available rate.
    Not only to get a luxurious suite in the staycation deal you’ll also reap the benefits of the Rixos Bab Al Bahr’s signature welcome amenities and a private cabana by the beach with refreshments.
    Whether you’re on a getaway with the whole family, with a group a friends or you’re with your significant other, there’s something for everyone including adventurous water sports, beach and poolside fun and a luxurious spa.

    Guests can be rest assured that the Rixos Bab Al Bahr has the highest safety standards and training and hygiene protocols to protect the health and well-being of both guests and employees. Similarly, they are also part of the RAKTDA ‘Safeguard Assurance’ program and are certified as a safe destination by Bureau Veritas, a global leader in testing, inspection and certification services.
    We can’t think of any excuse not to book a stay ASAP.
    To make a booking call +971 (7) 244 4400 or email reservation.rak@rixos.com.
    Note: All room rates are subject to a 10 per cent service charge and 5 per cent VAT. A tourism fee of Dhs20 per unit per night is also applicable.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More