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      30 décor pieces to refresh your home

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      9 mins ago

      Summer has finally arrived and with that comes the warmth of hosting gatherings at home rather than being outdoors. With a few décor pieces to add, transforming your abode has never been easier.
      By infusing the calming elements of summer, anyone can add a few décor pieces to completely revamp their space.
      So, as temperatures rise, it’s time to embrace the season’s ecelectic energy and infuse your living spaces with a breath of fresh air. Embracing what suits your home the best can be a hassle – from figuring out what colour suits your rooms the best to what furniture looks best in your living space, the options are seemingly endless.
      Sometimes, it can be as simple as adding a cute seashell-shaped throw pillow or switching out your plates for ones with a colorful pattern to transform your home into the summer oasis of your dreams.
      Each of these pieces, can make a splash throughout the joy-filled month, trust us when we say there are plenty of choices that are *add-to-cart worthy*.
      For the host or the bachelor, try a fresh color scheme or incorporate new materials as the season changes. Start small and focus on one area of a room, or if you’re feeling bold, transform the whole room into a summery haven. This extra special and extra hot time of year is also the perfect time to embrace decor inspired by coastal design, like beachy color palettes and nautical nods, and tropical motifs, like summer fruit and palm leaves galore. Hence, Spruce up your dining area with our best summer decór ideas—from table setting and furnishing inspiration to mesmerising lighting touches for an escape without taking a long-haul flight. Without spending too much, it’s always easy to add a few touches to make your home a relaxing haven.
      If you’re looking to revamp your space, you’re in the right place as we can allow you to elevate your home’s style and create a refreshing retreat for yourself.

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

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      A rare super blue moon will be visible from the UAE this week

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      54 seconds ago

      UAE Skywatchers in for a treat as a rare celestial event will illuminate the night — the blue moon.
      Get ready to be intrigued as a rare super moon will grace the UAE skies tonight, Monday, August 19th. This extraordinary lunar spectacle promises to be a sight to behold, combining the brilliance of a supermoon with the unique occurrence of a blue moon.

      What is a Super Blue Moon?

      While the name might conjure images of a moon bathed in blue hues, the term actually refers to the timing of full moons. This is the third full moon in a season with four, making it a relatively uncommon event. To add to the celestial wonder, this blue moon coincides with its closest approach to Earth, resulting in a supermoon – appearing larger and brighter than usual.

      When and Where to Watch

      The super moon will rise shortly after sunset, casting its enchanting glow across the UAE. For optimal viewing, seek out open spaces with clear horizons, such as beaches, deserts, or elevated areas. Dubai Astronomy Group recommends waterfront locations to enjoy the moon’s reflection on the water.

      A Once-in-a-Decade Phenomenon

      While supermoons occur several times a year, the combination of a supermoon and a blue moon is a truly special event. According to NASA, this celestial duo can occur as infrequently as once every 20 years. The next super blue moons are predicted for January and March 2037, making tonight’s spectacle an opportunity not to be missed.

      So, mark your calendars, set your alarms, and prepare to be captivated by the magic of the night sky. Whether you’re an avid stargazer or simply appreciate nature’s wonders, this is a celestial event you won’t want to miss. More

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      When is Emirati Women’s Day 2024? Everything to know

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      9 seconds ago

      Emirati Women’s Day is an annual celebration held on August 28th to honor the significant contributions of Emirati women to the nation’s development. This special day was initiated in 2015 by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, the Mother of the Nation, to recognize the achievements of Emirati women and inspire future generations.

      Why does it fall on the 28th of August every year?
      The date of August 28th holds historical significance as it marks the founding of the UAE’s General Women’s Union in 1975. This institution has played a pivotal role in advocating for the rights and empowerment of Emirati women.
      What’s the theme for this year?
      Each year, Emirati Women’s Day is celebrated under a specific theme that highlights a particular aspect of women’s contributions. The theme for 2024 is yet to be officially announced, but it is expected to focus on the continued progress and achievements of Emirati women in various fields.

      The primary purpose of Emirati Women’s Day is to:
      Recognize the invaluable contributions of Emirati women to the nation’s progress.
      Inspire young Emirati women to pursue their dreams and ambitions.
      Promote gender equality and women’s empowerment in all aspects of life.
      Showcase the leadership role of Emirati women in shaping the future of the UAE.
      Celebrate the cultural heritage and traditions of Emirati women.

      Through initiatives, events, and programs organized to mark this special day, the UAE aims to highlight the remarkable journey of Emirati women and their unwavering commitment to the nation’s development. By celebrating their achievements, the country seeks to inspire future generations of women to become active participants in building a prosperous and sustainable future for the UAE.
      Emirati Women’s Day is a testament to the UAE’s dedication to empowering women and recognizing their pivotal role in society. It serves as a platform to showcase the remarkable strides made by Emirati women and to inspire them to reach even greater heights.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram: @fatmaa More

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      I’m Not Giving Up My Summer Fridays Just Because It’s Fall—Here’s How

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      In juxtaposition to the summer, the fall is when we get serious about work. After all, there are fewer places to go and people to see as the weather gets colder, so it only makes sense that we’d put more effort into our careers and kiss those summer Fridays goodbye. The problem with this? The five-day workweek is becoming an outdated concept. It commonly depletes our mental resources, which hinders us from working at peak performance. The only logical solution to this IMO is to continue to streamline our workweeks. Sure, we might have to be online on Fridays now, but that doesn’t mean that Fridays all of a sudden have to go from days off in the sun to jam-packed with to-dos.
      Thankfully, it’s not that complicated to continue having stress-free Fridays. You can, in fact, achieve all of your goals and close out the year strong by implementing a few simple intentions Monday-Thursday. Ahead, we’re sharing how you can maximize productivity and efficiency so you can optimize your work and enjoy an easy Friday at the office.
      1. Plan your week before it even starts
      Before leaving work the week prior, during your Sunday reset, or before you clock in on Monday morning, you need to create a plan of action for the week. Ask yourself what you have coming up and what needs to get done before you clock out on Thursday. Be sure to take a look at your personal and professional calendar to see what meetings or appointments might take up some of your time. Doing this before your week starts allows you to hit the ground running Monday morning and not waste any of your precious time.
      Planning will help you manage your time better, boost your focus, and help you complete your tasks seamlessly and efficiently. Plus, if something pops up at the last minute, you already have a full view of what your week looks like, so you can decide where you can fit it in rather than letting it derail your week completely or become a Friday to-do.
      2. Shorten meeting times
      Although meetings are important for fostering connection and ensuring all employees are on the same page, long meetings are unnecessary, and yes, some meetings really could just be emails. Not only do some cut into your day and prevent you from getting things done, but they can also be mentally draining, making it harder to be productive. To combat this, identify meetings you can shorten and meetings you can cut altogether. Shorter meetings will give you more time during the week for tasks you need to get to before Friday. Plus, your meetings will be more productive since you won’t have time for long tangents and chit-chatting about the newest TikTok trend before diving into the meeting agenda.
      3. Reattach to your work every morning
      We’ve all had mornings where we frantically dive into work because we overslept or got stuck behind a school bus on our commute. And on those mornings, we have a harder time staying focused. Apparently, there’s a reason for this. Studies show that taking the time to reattach to work in the morning is the secret to higher work engagement, better use of job resources, and more positivity. Essentially, this means that by taking a few minutes to settle into our workday, we are more likely to get shit done. Try doing a career meditation, visualizing a positive workday while sipping your coffee, or journaling before clocking in for the day. Likewise, you can also imagine how you’ll spend your after-work hours knowing you checked off everything on your to-do list. This always motivates me to knock out more tasks since I’ll be rewarded for my hard work.

      During your time away from your desk, rest and renew properly. That way, you can operate at peak performance when it’s time to get to work.

      4. Implement monotasking
      Monotasking is essentially the antidote to multitasking and emphasizes focusing on one task at a time until it’s completed. While this isn’t a groundbreaking concept, it’s a hard one to master. We live in a world filled with distractions that cause our tasks to take two to three times longer than they should. I don’t know about you, but I don’t have time for that when I’m trying to have relaxing Fridays for the foreseeable. To prevent distractions and use monotasking to your advantage, you need to eliminate anything from your work environment that might cut into your focus. I place my phone in another room or put it on “do not disturb” during my workday. You could also wear noise-canceling headphones to block out outside noise or even set parameters on your phone that don’t let you check social media.
      Different tricks work for different people, but try your best to play to your strengths and weaknesses; if you can hear a notification on your phone without picking it up, you might be able to leave it on “do not disturb” or keep it on your desk. Implementing this has been a serious game-changer in my ability to cross tasks off my list before Friday. I complete assignments so much faster when I’m not stopping every 10 minutes to refresh Instagram. Who knew?
      5. Consider extending your work hours
      If you’re struggling to get the majority of your work done before Friday, consider extending your work hours Monday-Thursday. Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to work all day long—because you absolutely shouldn’t, and that’d impede your mental well-being. Rather, it’s similar to what you do when you’re taking PTO on a Friday. You work a little longer, so everything that needs to get done is before you’re OOO.
      Instead of working four eight-hour days, try working four 10-hour days, especially on weeks you’re busy AF. During your non-busy weeks, you can finesse your schedule accordingly; you might start and end work a half hour earlier or later on one day, clock out normally for four days, and so forth. Working longer hours might not sound ideal, but an earlier start in the mornings is always worth it when Friday rolls around. It allows me to accomplish all my tasks without sacrificing my mental health and well-being, and for that reason, I highly recommend it.
      6. Prioritize your well-being
      Your life outside of work affects your life at work. It’s almost impossible, at least it is for me, to show up as my best self in the workplace when I am not showing up for myself outside of it. We all have a lot of responsibilities, personally and professionally, that take up our mental resources (or our sanity, depending on the week). By prioritizing time to yourself in the hours you’re not working, whether that’s enjoying a yoga class after a long day or (dare I say it??) sleeping in on the weekends, you’ll have a better chance at tackling all your to-dos.
      Getting all of your work done in four days time isn’t always easy, but it is a lot easier when you don’t feel so damn depleted all the time. During your time away from your desk, rest and renew properly. That way, you can operate at peak performance when it’s time to get to work, and you’re less likely to have work spill into your precious Fridays.

      ABOUT THE AUTHOR
      Arianna Reardon, Contributing Writer
      Arianna is a Rhode Island native, professional blogger, and freelance writer. She’s passionate about helping women develop healthy relationships with money, become financially independent, and invest in themselves for the future. Arianna is a firm believer in going after what you want, taking time to stop and smell the roses, and the importance of a good cocktail. More

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      EW’s horoscope predictions: What’s in store for your zodiac sign?

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      2 hours ago

      This isn’t your average, yawn-inducing prediction session. We’re serving up a side of sass with your stellar insights. So, whether you’re a fiery Aries or a dreamy Pisces, get ready to laugh, cringe, and maybe even learn a thing or two about yourself. Let’s see what the universe has cooked up for your zodiac sign this week.
      Aries (March 21 – April 19)

      Aries, you’re the cosmic equivalent of a caffeinated squirrel on a sugar rush. Expect your energy levels to be off the charts this week, but don’t channel it into headbutting walls just yet. You might find yourself unexpectedly drawn to meditation or yoga, which is like asking a cheetah to take up knitting. But hey, who knows? You could surprise us all. On the love front, things are heating up faster than a bonfire on a windy day. Just remember, even fire needs oxygen, so don’t forget to breathe and let the other person have a word in edgewise.

      Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

      Taurus, the universe is trying to tell you something, and it’s not about which shade of green to paint your living room.You’re about to embark on a journey of self-discovery that involves more introspection than a therapy session with a particularly probing therapist. Don’t worry, you’ll still have time to indulge in your favorite guilty pleasure, whether it’s cheese, sleep, or both. Just remember, variety is the spice of life, even if that spice is a really good cheddar.

      Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

      Gemini, your brain is a whirlwind of ideas, and your mouth is the tornado that spreads them. This week, try to channel that energy into something productive, like writing a novel or inventing a new flavor of ice cream. Or, you know, just keep talking. We’re listening. Love life is a rollercoaster, but you’re the kind of person who could probably build a rollercoaster in your backyard. Just make sure there’s a safety harness.

      Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

      Cancer, you’re feeling a bit crabby this week, and we don’t blame you. The world can be a harsh place, full of people who don’t understand the importance of a cozy blanket and a good cry. But remember, even the darkest clouds have a silver lining, and yours might be a particularly delicious dessert. On the love front, things are as calm as a lake on a summer day, which is great if you like that sort of thing. If not, maybe it’s time to stir things up a bit.

      Leo (July 23 – August 22)

      Leo, your star is shining brighter than ever, and everyone knows it. You’re the center of attention, the life of the party, and the person everyone wants to be around. Just try not to let your ego get too big for its britches. Remember, even the sun needs to set sometimes. Love life is a royal affair, full of drama, passion, and a healthy dose of self-love. Keep shining,your majesty.

      Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

      Virgo, you’re in analysis mode this week, which means everyone around you is probably walking on eggshells. But hey, at least your house is spotless. You’re also feeling a bit of a creative spark, which is surprising considering your usual love for order and structure. Maybe it’s time to try your hand at painting, writing, or sculpting something truly chaotic. Love life is steady and reliable, like a good pair of jeans.

      Libra (September 23 – October 22)

      Libra, the scales of justice are tilted in your favor this week, which means you’re going to be the ultimate peacemaker.Everyone will be coming to you for advice, mediation, and probably a shoulder to cry on. Just make sure you don’t lose yourself in the process of helping others. Love life is harmonious, but don’t be afraid to add a little spice to the mix.

      Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

      Scorpio, you’re like a cat: mysterious, alluring, and capable of both extreme affection and sudden claws. This week, you’re feeling particularly intense, which can be both a blessing and a curse. Channel that energy into something productive, like writing a thriller or planning world domination. Love life is a game of cat and mouse, and you’re definitely the cat.

      Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

      Sagittarius, your wanderlust is calling, and it’s time to answer. Whether it’s a physical journey or a mental one, get ready for adventure. You’re also feeling particularly philosophical this week, which is great if you have friends who enjoy deep conversations. If not, you might want to stick to travel plans. Love life is full of surprises, so buckle up and enjoy the ride.

      Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

      Capricorn, you’re all about structure and discipline this week, which is great if you’re trying to build an empire. Just remember to take breaks and enjoy the little things. You’re also feeling a bit nostalgic, which is a nice change of pace from your usual focus on the future. Love life is steady and reliable, like a good foundation.

      Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

      Aquarius, your mind is racing faster than a Formula 1 car, and your imagination is out of this world. This week, you’re likely to come up with some truly groundbreaking ideas. Don’t be afraid to share them with the world, even if they sound a little crazy. Love life is anything but ordinary, and you wouldn’t have it any other way.

      Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

      Pisces, you’re feeling particularly dreamy this week, which is a nice escape from the harsh realities of life. Just don’t get so lost in your imagination that you forget to pay your bills. You’re also feeling extra compassionate, which is a wonderful quality. Love life is like a fairytale, but remember, even fairy tales have their share of challenges.

      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Illustrations by Ana-Ruxandra Nastase, sourced from Pinterest, Feature Image: @sarashakeel  More

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      High cortisol can weaken your immune system: 5 ways to combat it

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      36 seconds ago

      Feeling frazzled? You’re not alone. Daily pressures can send cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, into overdrive.
      For women, chronically high cortisol can disrupt sleep, worsen PMS symptoms, and even contribute to weight gain. But don’t despair! Here are 5 science-backed strategies to keep your cortisol levels in check and your well-being soaring:
      Power Down for Power Up

      Sleep is the ultimate stress soother. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Create a relaxing bedtime routine, including winding down electronics at least an hour before bed.
      Why it Works: According to a study published in the National Institutes of Health (NIH) journal Psychoneuroendocrinology, just one night of short sleep can significantly elevate cortisol levels.
      Breathe Deeply, De-Stress Completely

      Deep breathing activates the relaxation response, a natural antidote to cortisol’s fight-or-flight effects. Practice belly breathing for just 5 minutes daily. Inhale slowly through your nose, feeling your belly expand. Exhale slowly through pursed lips.
      Science Says So: A review published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology highlights the effectiveness of deep breathing in reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation.
      Nourish Your Body, Tame Your Stress

      A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides sustained energy and minimizes blood sugar fluctuations that can trigger cortisol spikes. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive caffeine, which can worsen anxiety and stress.
      Move It or Lose It (the Stress, That Is!)

      Exercise is a potent stress reliever. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week. Physical activity helps burn off stress hormones and promotes the production of feel-good endorphins.
      The Science of Sweat: A meta-analysis published in the journal Sports Medicine concluded that regular exercise is an effective strategy for reducing cortisol levels and improving stress management.
      Connect and Be Kind

      Social connection is a powerful buffer against stress. Nurture relationships with loved ones, engage in activities you enjoy, and consider volunteering. Acts of kindness boost both your mood and the well-being of others, creating a positive feedback loop.
      By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can effectively manage your cortisol levels and cultivate a calmer, healthier you. Remember, consistency is key. Be patient, celebrate your progress, and enjoy the journey to a more balanced and stress-free life!
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Unsplash, Pexel & feature image: @xun1020 More

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      Netflix gears up for back-to-school with new kids and family content

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      2 mins ago

      Netflix is set to make the back-to-school transition smoother with a fresh lineup of shows and movies for kids and families. The streaming giant has announced a diverse range of new and returning series, as well as highly anticipated films.

      New Shows for Little Ones and Kids
      For the youngest viewers, Netflix is introducing Mighty MonsterWheelies on October 14th, featuring adorable monster trucks. Returning favorites like Gabby’s Dollhouse and Hot Wheels Let’s Race will also be back with new seasons, with the latter set to premiere on September 9th. Other preschool offerings include Wonderoos and The Creature Cases, both returning with new seasons later in the year.
      Older kids can look forward to new adventures with The Bad Guys in a spooky Halloween special titled The Bad Guys: Haunted Heist, releasing on October 3rd. Barbie Mysteries: The Great Horse Chase will debut on November 1st, while Pokémon Horizons: The Series continues with part four on November 22nd. Additionally, new series Our Oceans and Jentry Chau vs. the Underworld are slated for fall and winter 2024, respectively.

      Family-Friendly Films
      Families can enjoy a variety of animated films this fall. Migration is already available, while Spellbound and That Christmas will be released in November and December, respectively.
      Beyond the Screen
      To further engage young audiences, Netflix is expanding its podcast offerings. Bedtime Stories with Netflix Jr. features soothing tales to help children relax, with new episodes featuring popular characters. Popcorn Brainstorm! Jokes & Trivia for Kids offers fun and educational content for the whole family.
      With this robust lineup, Netflix aims to be the go-to destination for family entertainment as the new school year begins.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      Exclusive: Sheikha Mahra reveals daughter’s face for the first time

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      2 hours ago

      Last night, HH Sheikha Mahra shared baby girl Princess Mahra’s photo on her Instagram. Although, Sheikha Mahra did cover her daughter’s face partially with an emoji, she was generous enough to show most of her baby daughter’s beautiful face.
      A splitting image of her mum, baby Mahra looked adorable as she curiously looked at the loving gaze of her mum.

      This isn’t the first time Sheikha Mahra has given the world a peek into motherhood. Before this, HH Sheikha Mahra shared a picture where she held her baby girl close, right after she made the announcement about her divorce.
      Holding her close, the mother-daughter looked happy in each other’s embrace.

      Giving us a peek into motherhood, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra shared an adorable photo of little Princess Mahra.
      The mother-daughter duo were seen to be snuggling up to each other, with it sweetly captioned as “just the two of us”.

      After sharing the first glimpse of baby Mahra from the hospital, the Royal Princess of Dubai revealed another tender moment with her precious daughter.
      First, she posted a black and white image of baby Mahra holding her fingers gently. A precious moment shared between the mother-daughter.

      Followed by a gratitude post with the doctor who helped bring her daughter into this world. Dr. Fahad Mirza is seen holding baby Mahra in the picture, seated next to Sheikha Mahra herself.

      Dr. Fahad Mirza with baby Mahra and Sheikha Mahra
      Recently, the Dubai Royal shared intimate photos from her child birth experience, giving the world a glimpse of her newborn daughter.
      When was Sheikha Mahra’s daughter born?
      Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum and Sheikh Mana Al Maktoum have welcomed the arrival of their baby girl on Wednesday, May 1, 2024.
      Dubai’s royal family is celebrating yet another joyous occasion as the couple welcome their first child together. Sheikh Mana announced the news via an Instagram story today, Thursday afternoon, revealing the safe arrival of their daughter.
      It was revealed by Sheikh Mana’s Instagram that the couple has named their precious daughter Mahra.
      In a heartfelt post shared by Dubai’s favourite Princess, she said, “Thank you Dr. Fadi Mirza and Latifa Hospital team for all your support and most memorable experience for bringing baby Mahra to this world. 01.05.2024.”
      Acknowledging the hospital staff and the medical team that helped her deliver the baby, Sheikha Mahra shared her gratitude for a safe and sound experience.
      Supporting his wife through-and-through, Sheikh Mana was spotted by her bedside, holding her dearly through the entire process.
      The pictures included mother-daughter moments along with images of Sheikha Mahra’s mum holding her grandchild and Sheikh Mana gracing his baby daughter.
      Take a look at the intimate-yet-precious photos shared by the Princess:

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