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    Emirates Woman July’s – The Travel Issue

    Life

    July 1, 2025

    This issue encourages you to indulge your wanderlust.
    If you’re travelling over summer – enjoy. If you’re staying at home – make this issue your go-to for daytime dreaming of the next adventure.
    wanderlust/ˈwɒndəlʌst/nouna strong desire to travel
    THE DREAM
    AUSTIN PROPER HOTEL – TEXAS, US

    Situated in Downtown’s 2nd Street District, Austin Proper Hotel and Residences offers an artful immersion in lifestyle and well-being. With emphasis on collaboration, the passionate and compelling vision of designer Kelly Wearstler meets the culinary creativity of Austin tastemaker, MML Hospitality. Head to the 5th floor pool deck for the best sunset views.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Amanjena, Morocco – Resort More

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    5 Tips To Prevent Stained Teeth & Brighten Your Smile

    Let’s be honest: our efforts to prevent stained teeth and brighten our smile are thwarted by other priorities. Mornings without coffee feel incomplete, and a good weekend just isn’t the same without a glass of wine (or two). Whether you’re sipping your frothy cappuccino during a quick Zoom meeting or clinking glasses of Merlot at a braai, there’s no denying: South African women know how to enjoy the little pleasures in life.

    But what do your favourite beverages have in common – aside from being utterly delicious? Unfortunately, they’re both notorious for staining your teeth. That perfect selfie smile can start to look a little less sparkling over time, even if your oral hygiene is on otherwise point. Don’t worry – you don’t have to give up your morning fix or weekend unwind to keep your teeth white. With a few smart tweaks from dental surgeon Dr Ockert Bekker, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: prevent stained teeth *and* have our coffee.

    How Teeth Get Stained

    Coffee and wine both contain something called chromogens – compounds with strong pigments that easily cling to your tooth enamel. Red wine also packs tannins, which help those stains latch on even better. And while coffee may seem harmless in its milky latte form, it’s acidic, which can weaken enamel and make your teeth more porous over time – prime territory for discolouration.

    It’s not just reds (or coffee hues) that are sneaky culprits. White wine, though lighter in colour, is highly acidic too, which means it preps your enamel to absorb pigments from whatever else you eat or drink after that glass. So, if you’re pairing your Chenin with strawberries or a rich tomato pasta… yep, more staining potential!

    READ MORE: The Surprising Way Your Menstrual Cycle Affects Your Smile

    How To Prevent Stained Teeth – And Whiten Your Smile

    The good news? You don’t need to switch to herbal tea and sparkling water (unless you want to, of course). Here are a few low-effort, high-impact tips to help keep your smile bright:

    Rinse, Don’t Rush

    After your last sip of coffee or wine, try rinsing your mouth with water before brushing. This helps neutralise the acid and reduce the staining effect. Brushing immediately after drinking acidic beverages can actually do more harm than good, as your enamel is temporarily softened.

    Use a Straw

    Yes, for that beloved iced coffee: a straw can help bypass your front teeth and limit the staining contact. Ditto for wine (although you may invite questions).

    Chew on Crunchy Snacks

    Raw fruits and veggies like apples, cucumber, celery and carrots help naturally scrub your teeth and boost saliva, which acts like your mouth’s own cleaning agent. Keep a stash of crunchy snacks nearby – your teeth (and your gut) will thank you.

    READ MORE: 5 TikTok Teeth Trends A Dental Surgeon Says You Should Skip

    Upgrade Your Toothpaste

    Opt for a whitening toothpaste that’s enamel-safe and ideally contains fluoride. Just make sure it’s not too abrasive – look for one approved by the SA Dental Association (SADA) or your dentist.

    See Your Dentist Regularly

    No surprises here! A professional clean twice a year helps remove surface stains and keeps your teeth healthy. And if you’re keen for a whitening boost, your dentist can recommend safe, effective options that won’t damage your enamel. At Bekker Dental & Aesthetics, we make use of the renowned Philips Zoom Whitening Treatment for our in-chair procedure and our take-home kit.

    Embrace the Balance

    Life’s too short not to enjoy your favourite drinks. But it’s also too short to hide your smile in photos or feel self-conscious every time someone says, “Say cheese!” With just a few tweaks to your daily routine, you can enjoy your coffee dates and wine nights and keep your pearly whites looking their best.

    READ MORE: 9 Useful Self-Care Apps For Wellness To Download Now

    By Dr Ockert Bekker, Founder and Dental Surgeon at Bekker Dental & Aesthetics

    About Dr Bekker

    Founder and Dental Surgeon at Bekker Dental & Aesthetics

    Dr. Ockert Bekker is a highly accomplished dental professional known for his passion and dedication to excellence in patient care and advanced dentistry. He holds a BChD from the University of the Western Cape (UWC), along with multiple postgraduate diplomas in Endodontic and Aesthetic Dentistry. His pursuit of continuous learning led him to complete an Implant Fellowship at New York University (NYU) and an Orthodontic Aligner Fellowship, further enhancing his ability to offer cutting-edge dental solutions.

    Dr. Bekker prides himself on staying at the forefront of modern dentistry, embracing a holistic approach to dental care that combines technical expertise with a patient-centred philosophy. His practice, Bekker Dental & Aesthetics, with branches in Durbanville and Paarl, is equipped with the latest technology to ensure personalised treatments that prioritise long-term oral health and aesthetic excellence.

    Renowned for going the extra mile, Dr. Bekker and his extensive team create a welcoming environment where patient comfort is paramount. Whether enhancing smiles with aesthetic treatments or restoring function through complex procedures, they deliver results that are as beautiful as they are lasting. More

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    July’s – The Summer Escape Issue with Reform Athletica

    Life

    July 1, 2025

    Photographer: Ziga MihelcicCreative Direction: Amy SessionsFashion Editor: Camille MacawiliMakeup & Hair: Karolina KurowickaModel: Mansi at MMG Artists
    Styling with thanks to VAARA
    Welcome to The Summer Escape Issue.
    This issue encourages you to explore and unwind as summer unfolds.
    For our cover, we partnered with Reform Athletica in The Summer Escape, for those wanting to carve out a sense of peace and mental escape this summer and beyond, Dina Elshurafa has built a brand that gives you a place of solace from the fast pace of life in the fast lane.
    We deliver you the best edits for summer dressing, from crochet detailing for sun-drenched daydreaming in The Edit to discussing brand building and travel schedules with founder of Monday Swimwear Natasha Oakley in Monday Mood. Tiffany Hsu, Chief Buying Officer at Mytheresa, also shares how you build an e-commerce brand with intellect, gut feel and a sense of individuality in A Daring Eye.
    Rest, Recharge and Refocus. 

    Beauty and lifestyle wise, Siffat Haider, founder of Arrae, discusses supplementing your way through summer so you can feel your best, most confident self in Svelte Summer and Strategic Partner Manager, Global Partnerships – META, Joana Jamil shares with us how the algorithm changes when you travel so you can get ahead of the curve in The Travel Algorithm. Finally, in terms of travel, Portofino’s most storied hideaway, Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, makes its much-anticipated grand reopening in The Wanderlust and Raha Moharrak, the first Saudi Arabian woman to summit Everest, tells how she prepares for climbing peaks in No Mountain Too High.
    Rest, recharge and refocus this summer, ready for Q3’s level up.
    The Hero Buys

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied  More

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    10 unique bucket list activities to experience in the GCC

    Life

    July 1, 2025

    Have you been caught daydreaming about the bucket list experiences you want to have in your lifetime?
    With the GCC being home to a myriad of must-see places and challenging experiences to try, you better start adding these activities to your list. From skydiving to zip lining the options are endless to add some excitement to your mundane schedule.
    Overall, a bucket list experience refers to something deeply memorable, unique, or transformative that people aspire to do or accomplish in their lifetime. Several factors contribute to making an experience bucket-list worthy.
    Why are these special?
    Everyone makes a list of activities they want to tick mark before they pass away. Also, often because it’s special, challenging, or fulfilling. These activities are typically unique, adventurous, or highly meaningful and represent personal goals or dreams. In short, a bucket list activity is something significant that someone aspires to do before they “kick the bucket,” meaning before they pass away.
    If you find yourself staring at a blank piece of paper with no idea what to even consider, you’re in the right place for some inspiration.
    For your next adventure-fuelled activity, Emirates Woman has put together a list of experiences to try ASAP.

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @msiarkowska More

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    When is the next long weekend? Your ultimate guide to UAE’s 2025 public holidays

    Life

    June 30, 2025

    The UAE Cabinet has officially announced at least 12 public holidays in 2025, with dates subject to moon sightings—meaning more opportunities for residents to pause, recharge, and reset. While we still have four more public holidays to look forward to this year, the next one is just around the corner: Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH).
    In today’s fast-paced world, long weekends aren’t just a luxury—they’re a necessity for mental and emotional wellbeing. These breaks allow us to step away from daily routines, reconnect with ourselves, and return with renewed energy. And with the UAE’s latest public holiday policy, even more long weekends could be on the horizon.
    Recharge Without Travelling: Dubai’s best stretching studios for a mind and body reset

    When Is the Next Public Holiday in the UAE?
    The Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (PBUH) falls in Rabi Al-Awwal, the third month of the Islamic calendar. Depending on moon sightings, the holiday could land on:
    Friday, September 5 – Resulting in a three-day weekend (Friday to Sunday).Thursday, September 4 – Potentially granting residents an extra day off during the workweek.
    The exact date will be confirmed closer to the time, but either way, it’s the perfect opportunity to unplug, travel, or simply indulge in some much-needed rest.
    More Long Weekends to Look Forward to in 2025
    Beyond this year, UAE National Day in 2025 is set to bring another extended break. Mark your calendars for:
    Tuesday, December 2 to Wednesday, December 3, 2025 – A two-day public holiday celebrating the UAE’s unity and progress.
    With the weekend following shortly after, residents may be able to enjoy an extended break by taking just a couple of days off—perfect for a relaxing staycation or a quick international getaway.
    A New Law for Longer Weekends
    Starting in 2025, the UAE has introduced a new rule: if a public holiday falls on a weekend, it can be moved to the start of the new week, ensuring residents don’t miss out on a day off. However, this does not apply to Eid Al Fitr or Eid Al Adha, as these holidays follow a fixed structure.
    This change reflects the UAE’s commitment to work-life balance, recognizing that regular breaks are vital for productivity and happiness.
    Why Long Weekends Matter
    #longweekend: 6 hotels with a private jacuzzi to unwind in Dubai

    Science backs what we already know—taking breaks boosts creativity, reduces burnout, and improves overall mental health. Whether you use the time for a quick getaway, a digital detox, or quality time with loved ones, these pauses help rewire your mind, allowing you to return with clarity and purpose.
    Stay tuned for official moon sighting confirmations, and make the most of your well-deserved break.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Featured Image: Supplied More

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    7 wellness communities experience in Dubai

    Life

    June 30, 2025

    Whether you’re looking to elevate your running game or simply take some time out for a sound healing class – these fitness communities are worth joining.
    As Dubai continues to be a home to a thriving wellness community that caters to holistic health, fitness, and well-being – it’s more about creative inclusive groups that support each other to achieve their goals.
    From yoga studios and mindfulness retreats to holistic healing centers and fitness collectives, the city offers a diverse range of spaces for individuals seeking balance and self-care. Whether you’re looking for guided meditation, alternative therapies, or group wellness activities, Dubai’s wellness hubs provide a supportive environment to nurture both body and mind.
    So, if you’re looking to be a part of one, scroll through our guide of trusted communities that worth joining in Dubai.
    The Pink Majlis

    The Pink Majlis is a women-focused club dedicated to fostering a safe and empowering community for like-minded individuals. More than just a discussion group, it offers a dynamic range of experiences—from Pilates workshops and entrepreneurial pop-ups to curated brunches that spark meaningful conversations. By blending connection, wellness, and support, The Pink Majlis creates a vibrant space where women can thrive together.
    For more information, visit @thepinkmajlis.
    Beyond Wellness

    From retreats to corporate wellness events, this community ensures workouts are given a new meaning. With something for everyone – the platform has a myriad of workouts every week ranging from Yin Yoga to floating sound healings. There are different packages for each session along with wellness retreats arranged internationally. Launched by Rachel Dowes, this life and business transformation hub, focuses on building a facility to grow women in the UAE.
    For more information visit @beyondwellnessdxb
    RunKwa

    This nonprofit organization works on collecting discarded running shoes and donate it to talented runners who simply can’t afford to buy them. Taking place every Tuesday, this community focuses on building a platform that makes people go from stangers to friends. With the intention of running, giving and smiling, this 5km experience every morning works on building a close knit family every week.
    For more information visit @runwa_
    The Uncommon Club

    For a nuanced approach to run clubs, The Uncommon Club is know for their unique collaborations with various cafés and restaurants around Dubai. The standard run club sessions take place every Tuesday from 5pm at Kite Beach. From coach-led sessions to community events, this members only experience focuses on building a platform for likeminded people to meet each other. Their tagline is ‘No One Gets Left Behind.’
    For more information visit @theuncommonclub
    Club Somewhere (Launching Soon)

    Launched by UAE-based entrepreneur Jannat Miranda, Club Somewhere is not just a club, it’s a culture. This members-driven experience offers immersive creative wellness events, with movement sessions, panels and artistic workshops. With a myriad of people in the creative space, this allows many of them to connect. Club Somewhere is for those who want more than just another gym, another event, or another networking space. It’s for the creatives, the movers, the ones looking for something real.
    Humantra Run Club

    The Humantra Run Club is a welcoming running community in Dubai, hosting a free “Any Pace Any Face” 5km run every Saturday at 6:45am from Jumeirah 3 Beach, near Common Grounds Cafe. Open to all fitness levels, their sessions include post-run stretching and socialising over coffee. They also organise occasional long runs on Sundays. It’s perfect for anyone looking to improve fitness and connect with like-minded runners. For an additional boost of energy – the humantra sachets can energise you through your run.
    For more information visit @humantra
    Adidas Runners Club

    Adidas Runners is a global running community that connects runners of all levels through group training, events, and personal development. In Dubai, members can join local runs, participate in training sessions, and engage through the Adidas Runners Dubai page or the Facebook group.
    For more information visit @adidasdubai
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @elisehoogerdijk More

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    10 fabulous things to do in the UAE this July

    Life

    June 30, 2025

    Staying in the emirates this summer? These are the reservations to make, the things to do and the events to bookmark in the UAE this July…
    If you’re not travelling this summer, there’s endless activites to look forward to to keep your schedule full and your creativity at an all time high. From elevated new restaurants to chic Pilates studios, here are the best things to do in the UAE this July.
    Check out a refined new Sunday brunch

    Bringing a taste of La Dolce Vita to Jumeirah Mina Al Salam is Cala Vista. While alfresco dining may be off the agenda, head chef Luca and manager Pasquale have curated a new relaxed Italian Sunday brunch, reminiscent of family Sundays in their native Italy. Available from 12.30pm to 4pm, enjoy sharing starters, theatrically cooked pasta mains, and a collection of indulgent homemade desserts. A roaming band adds to the lively ambience. Packages start from AED375.
    @calavistadubai
    Create your own permanent jewellery in the capital

    It’s already a popular spot for beautiful, personal permanent jewellery in Dubai, and now Aglaiia has landed in Abu Dhabi’s Yas Mall. The modern and minimalistic space invites you to create bespoke jewellery in white gold, yellow gold or rose gold, customising it with diamonds and gemstones and permanently fixing it for you. Bookings can be made via Fresha, with sessions from AED45.
    @aglaiiapermanentjewelry
    Catch up over a new ladies’ night at J1 Beach

    We know you’ve likely discovered the fabulous array of daytime dining and high-octane imbibing at J1 Beach’s gorgeous hotspots. But there’s a new reason to make plans around this exciting Dubai destination after dark with the launch of Gitano’s new ladies’ night. Every Thursday, there’s complimentary drinks at the bar for ladies from 8pm to midnight, perfect for mid-week get-togethers.
    @gitano.dubai
    Stretch it out at a new Pilates studio

    A self-described curated space for body and soul, get stronger, leaner and more flexible at Soulmvnt, new in Dubai Design District. Opt for the Lagree class for next-level strength training, or try the high-energy mat Pilates session for maximum impact. Lower-tempo classes come in the form of yoga and sculpt. Classes start from AED169 for Lagree, and AED129 for all other sessions.
    @soulmvnt
    See an iconic popstar perform in the capital

    One of the biggest pop icons on the planet, JLO touches down in the UAE capital with her Up All Night world tour on July 29 for one night only at the Etihad Arena. Fans of the hitmaker behind era-defining tracks like On The Floor, Get Right and Love Don’t Cost A Thing can expect an electrifying performance of her biggest hits from across her legendary career. Tickets start from AED295.
    @etihadarena.ae
    Stretch out summer days with a night swim

    The latest craze to sweep through Dubai this summer is night swims – and they’re taking over some of our favourite beach clubs and pools across the city. There’s options to suit all styles – from loofty rooftop pools to laidback luxe beach clubs, but for a taste of Ibiza, we’ll be booking the Noches de Verano night swim at Balearic-inspired Tagomago. Taking place every Friday and Saturday, sip, swim and bask in the moonlight, with an AED150 minimum spend.
    @tagomagodubai
    Make reservations at Dubai’s newest restaurant

    An institution on London’s dining scene since 1968, Mr Chow is now renowned worldwide for its signature take on contemporary Beijing cuisine. With restaurants in Beverly Hills, New York, Miami and Riyadh – its now landed in Dubai. Adding to the gourmet cuisine scene in DIFC, Mr Chow is now welcoming guests to discover why it’s known and loved by A-Listers across the globe in Gate Village 3. Order the handmade noodles for the theatrical presentation and the iconic Beijing duck.
    @mrchowdifc
    Shop vintage pieces at the new So Much Trouble store

    Dubai’s premier in-store experience for all things vintage and designer, So Much Trouble has a new home at Atlantis, The Palm. Inside, you’ll find a curated edit of founder Dominique Laird’s most beloved brands, as well as handpicked pieces it’s impossible to find anywhere else. Perfect for a day of retail therapy.
    @somuchtroubledubai
    Check-in for a relaxing retreat on the shores of Ghantoot

    Tucked away along Abu Dhabi’s coast, Anantara Santorini offers a serene, adults-only escape inspired by the Greek Isles. With the Santorini Couple’s Serenity package, couples can enjoy sea-view luxury, wellness breakfasts, private yoga, and signature spa experiences designed for total relaxation. Rates start from AED2,950.
    @anantarasantorini
    Relax and re-centre with full moon yoga

    Beyond Wellness are behind some of the UAE’s premier wellness experiences, with their viral floating wellness sessions taking place across the emirates. But they also offer an array of other classes – from sound healing and meditation to yoga and sculpt classes. On July 8, they will be hosting a full moon yoga and sound healing session at 7.30pm at Raffles The Palm. Bask in the serenity as you gather under the Capricorn moon. Sessions are AED199 + VAT, with yoga mats provided.
    @beyondwellnessdxb
    yasmine.zahran

    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    5 self-help books on wellness edition for the mind, body & soul

    Life

    June 27, 2025

    As we close this final edition of our Friday Book Club, we’ve curated a selection of books that go beyond surface-level advice to offer genuine transformation in your wellness jouney.
    These are not quick-fix guides or trendy manifestos, but substantial works that address the fundamental aspects of living with purpose, health and clarity. Each one provides a unique lens through which to examine and improve your life, whether through redefining success, healing from within, or optimizing your physical potential.
    Friday book club: The ultimate guide to morning routines of high achieving women

    At the heart of this collection is the understanding that true wellness and wellbeing encompasses both mind and body. The books we’ve chosen reflect this holistic approach, offering wisdom that ranges from psychological freedom to biological optimization. They share a common thread of empowering the reader with knowledge that lasts far beyond the final page.
    The Wealth Money Can’t Buy by Robin Sharma

    Robin Sharma’s latest work challenges conventional notions of prosperity by expanding the definition of wealth to include eight vital dimensions beyond financial success. With insights drawn from his decades of coaching top performers, Sharma presents a philosophy of holistic achievement that values time freedom, physical vitality and contribution as much as material gain. The book systematically explores how to cultivate each form of wealth through daily practices and mindset shifts, offering a refreshing alternative to the burnout-inducing pursuit of success at any cost. What makes this particularly valuable is its balanced approach – acknowledging the importance of financial stability while preventing it from becoming the sole measure of a life well-lived.
    Order it on amazon.ae.
    The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins

    Mel Robbins distills years of psychological research and personal experience into a deceptively simple principle that has the power to transform relationships and self-perception. The book explores how our attempts to control external circumstances and other people’s actions often create the very stress we hope to avoid. Through relatable anecdotes and practical exercises, Robbins guides readers toward developing what she calls “the ultimate emotional boundary tool.” The strength of this work lies in its applicability – whether dealing with workplace dynamics, family relationships or personal goals, the “Let Them” philosophy provides a framework for emotional resilience that adapts to various life situations.
    Order it on amazon.ae.
    The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk

    This seminal work on trauma has become essential reading for understanding how our bodies store and respond to psychological distress. Van der Kolk presents decades of clinical research in accessible language, explaining the physiological mechanisms through which trauma affects everything from memory processing to immune function. The book’s real value comes from its comprehensive exploration of innovative treatments that go beyond traditional talk therapy, including somatic experiencing and neurofeedback. Particularly insightful are the sections on how trauma disrupts interpersonal relationships and the often-overlooked connection between physical health and emotional history, which largely contribute to overall wellness.
    Order it on amazon.ae.
    The Inflammation Spectrum by Dr. Will Cole

    Dr. Cole approaches the complex subject of chronic inflammation with both scientific rigor and practical wisdom. The book begins by clearly explaining how inflammatory responses operate in the body and why modern lifestyles often trigger these mechanisms unnecessarily. What sets this apart from other health books is its personalized approach – rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all anti-inflammatory diet, Cole provides tools for readers to identify their unique triggers and responses. The inclusion of meal plans, recipes and lifestyle adjustments makes the science actionable, while the underlying message about listening to one’s body promotes long-term health and wellness literacy beyond temporary fixes.
    Order it on amazon.ae.
    Outlive by Dr. Peter Attia

    Dr. Attia’s thorough examination of longevity science reframes aging as a process we can actively influence rather than passively accept. The book distinguishes between lifespan and healthspan, making a compelling case for focusing on quality of life years rather than just total years lived. Attia covers four major areas of focus – exercise, nutrition, sleep and emotional health – with a depth that acknowledges the complexity of human biology while still providing clear recommendations. Particularly valuable are the sections on metabolic health and strength training, which present often-overlooked aspects of preventive medicine. The book’s greatest strength is its balanced perspective, combining cutting-edge research with practical, sustainable application.
    Order it on amazon.ae.
    This collection represents more than just reading material – it offers a comprehensive education in living intentionally to long-term wellness. From Sharma’s expansive view of success to Attia’s science-backed longevity strategies, these books provide the knowledge to make informed decisions about how we live, work and care for ourselves. They remind us that true wellbeing comes from addressing all aspects of our existence – mental, emotional and physical – with equal attention and respect.
    Friday book club: 5 life-changing manifestation books for ambitious women

    As you explore these titles, we encourage you to read with curiosity and patience, allowing the ideas to resonate and integrate gradually. The most profound changes often come not from dramatic overhauls, but from the accumulation of small, consistent shifts in understanding and behavior. May these books serve as valuable companions on your journey toward a life of greater clarity, health and purpose.
    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Featured Image: Pinterest More