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    The Dubai-based wellness centre offering rapid transformational therapy

    February’s – ‘The Love Issue’ – Download Now
    The Hundred Wellness Centre’s Helen Pleic tells exactly how Rapid Transformational Therapy can help everyone find self-love.
    What do you love about what you do?
    I love to help people, and I really love knowing that I help people in an effective way that frees them of what is holding them back from living their best life. Having a resourceful internal dialogue which is free from doubt, sabotage, negative thoughts and feelings mean that people can show up better in their lives for themselves and others.
    What brought about your transition into the mental wellness space?

    People have always been able to naturally open up to me, which has allowed me to do well in my career. After doing the same thing for a while in business, I realised I loved the coaching and development aspect of my role and leading teams through change. Five years ago, I came across NLP & then RTT which impacted me for the better on a personal and professional level. I knew then that it was what I wanted to do next. When I came to The Hundred Centre, I felt the space was peaceful, warm and inviting. It is a safe space for people to be in.
    When you manage people, you can often see that their performance is impacted by their confidence and lack of self-esteem, which stems from their prior personal experiences. This understanding led me to combine coaching and therapy to help each person, depending on their circumstances.
    Can you talk us through what Rapid Transformational Therapy can do for the mind, body and soul?

    RTT impacts the mind, body and soul, as it begins with and changes your mind. Our mind, body and soul are all connected, and our mind has a big impact on how we feel, which also impacts our bodies. Sometimes when we are too caught up in our thoughts, we can forget this. Our thoughts impact our feelings, which then impact our bodies.
    Some of our thoughts are consistent, out of habit and experience. They are like the comfort zone of our minds that we dare not deviate from. The emotions that we operate from are driven by our thoughts, which all impact our body and the actions we take. This impacts our overall life experience or psyche soul, it’s like a spiral. You will see big changes when you change your thoughts.
    We can use our relationship with our bodies as an example. Most people find it easy to criticise their appearance and body. If you miss sleep and you are not eating well, your eyes may be puffy, you may look tired and bloated, your body is responding to your actions. We then criticise ourselves and our bodies by saying, “I look terrible, look at how fat and bloated I am”. When in reality, it’s the thoughts that are driving the behaviour to not sleep and eat foods that do not agree with our bodies that we should be focusing on.
    In your experience, how does RTT help with self-love?
    RTT can help in many ways. It can address why you have low self-esteem which is critical for self-love. If you are not kind to yourself, have inconsistent boundaries, put other people on a pedestal, are always comparing yourself to other people and saying you are not good enough, then you need to address where the beliefs that are driving those behaviours come from.
    As children, we experience love externally with constant praise and care from significant caregivers. When we become independent adults, this must shift to self-praise and self-love. No one person will be with you all the time to validate your worth and to give you love, it’s an inside job, and when you love yourself you will be able to love another and accept their love.

    How would you say mental wellness contributes to the ability to self-love?
    For me, mental wellness means being constructive and resourceful with my thoughts, which impact my feelings and actions. With mental wellness, I know that I can speak positively to myself and engage in any situation in a constructive manner. Mental wellness is also the ability to know your needs and understand your feelings. To be able to do this, you really need to sit with yourself and understand when a situation impacts you and why. When you understand and you are able to express this in a calm manner, this is a true act of self-love.
    What is key to truly achieving self-love?
    Having compassion for yourself, as well as a willingness and ability to see the truth and acknowledge yourself for where you are in the moment, against where you have been previously, you are definitely in appreciation mode. To love yourself, you need to have an understanding of the identity that you hold yourself too, your best version of you. To be able to do this, step away from all of the external messages that depict how you should look, what you should be doing to be accepted and stop comparing yourself to them. Know who you want to be, know truthfully where you are and appreciate where you were.
    How has RTT impacted your life and self-love?
    I used to be a perfectionist, self-sabotage occasionally and hold myself and others to high standards. I have always been kind, however, RTT is allowing me to lead with this, live in the moment, improve my self-esteem and my relationship with my body.
    I’ve noticed a significant shift since working with RTT, most importantly it has enabled me to enjoy my life, strengthened my relationships and allowed me to develop and progress spiritually.
    This is ‘The Love Issue’ – what does love mean to you and how do you plan to instil love into your life throughout 2021?
    To me, love is tenderness, affection and consideration for one another. To instil more love in my life is to act from thoughts of love and to live with an open heart. The book, The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer explains the concept of an open heart, and describes it as being excited and energised, the feeling we get when we are in a relationship. He compares this to the feeling we get when the relationship ends, we withdraw into ourselves and become depressed as our hearts are closed.
    We have been conditioned to look outside of ourselves for things that give us the feeling of love, as opposed to giving ourselves the feeling of love, keeping our hearts open and living life this way. It’s like seeing a toddler walking around and hugging everyone, they know no better than to love when they are in a safe, happy home.
    February’s – ‘The Love Issue’ – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    Going to the Maldives? You’ll now have to quarantine if you’re Abu Dhabi-based

    Abu Dhabi has updated its “green list” of countries, meaning those arriving in from those destinations do not need to quarantine on arrival.

    However, if you’re an Abu Dhabi resident who is currently holidaying in the Maldives or planning a getaway, you’ll now have to quarantine upon arrival back in the UAE’s capital as the getaway destination has been removed from the green list.
    At the end of January, the Maldives was added to the emirate’s green list but has now been removed. For countries not on the green list, a period of self-isolation for 10 days is currently in place.
    Meanwhile, countries which are on the green list, means that visitors from those identified countries will be allowed into Abu Dhabi with no quarantine time provided they have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result.
    Along with the Maldives being removed from the list, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, Thailand, Falkland Islands and St Kitts and Nevis have also been taken off the list, while Iceland and Bhutan have been added.
    At present, there are 12 countries on the ‘green list’: Australia, Bhutan, Brunei, China, Greenland, Hong Kong (SAR), Iceland, Mauritius, Mongolia, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia and Singapore.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Feature Image: Four Seasons Maldives More

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    12 exceptional women from the UAE making a big impact on the world

    Women from the UAE are consistently making exceptional contributions to society, inspiring us all daily.
    Their invaluable role in modern society is not to be underestimated as we constantly learn from them.
    Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum

    Our cover star of November’s – ‘The Fine Jewellery Issue’, Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Al Maktoum is inspiring the new generation of incredible women have risen to great heights in the aviation industry.
    “I’m most proud of becoming the first Emirati woman to join the Dubai Police as a helicopter pilot,” she told EW of her proudest moment. “Serving my country by doing what I love doing most is simply the best feeling, and I am deeply grateful for it.”
    Her Highness Sheikha Latifah Al Maktoum

    As a truly powerful and inspirational figure, Her Highness – who graced the cover of EW’s September’s – ‘The Power Issue’ – knows exactly how to keep her mind in champion mode. Sheikha Latifah has spearheaded sports for women in the UAE. She’s an equestrian athlete who competed in the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, becoming the first woman to represent the UAE at the Olympic games.
    Her Excellency Dr Maryam Matar

    Having had the dream and desire to serve in the medical field since she was young, Her Excellency Dr Maryam Mohamed Fatima Matar MD, Ph.D. has become a pioneer and a visionary in the healthcare space in the UAE.
    Not only is Her Excellency a pioneer in the medical space, but she is also a role model for many women in the UAE seeking to succeed, whether that be in healthcare or other industries. Additionally, she’s able to facilitate change, paving the way for other women and girls in the region.
    Captain Salma Al Baloushi

    As the first Emirati female to rise to First Officer’s rank at Etihad Airways, Captain Salma has had a long sparked interest in aviation while also completing her higher education in Aviation Management, forming the face of the modern woman in the UAE as it has taken years of hard work and dedication.
    Amna Al Haddad

    Amna al Haddad has defied stereotypes by becoming a positive figurehead for women in the region. As an Olympic weightlifter and also by being the first Emirati and GCC national to compete in Asia’s regionals, she later on also became a part of Nike’s latest campaign on inner strength, as she continues to push herself to the limit.
    Nayla Al Khaja

    She is the first female film director-producer in the UAE, while also being the CEO of Nayla Al Khaja films. Having directed several movies, they have been presented with awards at various international film festivals as she is also very active in the TV commercials domain, while also constantly directing for various international brands.
    Asma Hilal Lootah

    As the founder of the Hundred Wellness Centre, Asma Hilal Lootah is paving the way in the wellness space in the UAE. The Hundred is the first fully certified health clinic and wellness centre, which opened in 2008, and now champions wellness in the mind, body and soul for all around the UAE.
    Dr. Sara Al Madani

    While being a well-known entrepreneur and motivational speaker within the UAE, Dr. Sara Al Madani was selected as a board member at Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, making her the youngest member on the board inspiring women everywhere since 2014.
    Dr. Suaad Al Shamsi

    Dr. Suaad Al Shamsi is the first UAE female aircraft engineer. With a degree in aviation management and in aerospace engineering, Dr Al Shamsi has reached great heights, inspiring the younger generations of the future.
    Fatima Al Qubaisi

    Fatima Al Qubaisi is the first Emirati woman to graduate from Harvard Law School. She is now a fully qualified lawyer practising in the UAE and continues to champion and advocate for fellow females in this country.
    Zahra Lahri

    Known as UAE’s first female professional figure skater to compete in a hijab while also being titled as the ‘Ice Princess of the UAE’. With her growing prominence in the sport, she has defied all odds and broken down barriers to inspire generations of athletes to chase their dreams.
    Amna Al Qubaisi

    Known as the first Emirati female racing driver, especially as she’s no stranger to breaking new ground in motorsport with the Emirati driver making her name during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as Al Qubaisi’s success at Yas Marina Circuit was one of the major milestones in her motor racing career.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Feature Image: Instagram More

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    Malala Yousafzai’s important and empowering speech at Dubai-based festival

    Malala Yousafzai has given an important and empowering speech shedding light on crucial issues amidst the global pandemic.
    Speaking at the 2021 Emirates Airline Festival of Literature over the weekend, Yousafzai explained that the COVID-19 pandemic may make it difficult for many girls around the school to return to school, something that should be treated “as an emergency”, according to the recent Oxford University graduate.

    Referencing research done by the non-profit organisation she founded, the Malala Fund, it’s estimated that 20 million girls’ education was at risk due to the pandemic at the start of it in March 2020.
    “The reasons for this could be because many girls are pushed into forced marriages or because they have become financial supporters of their families and since they now have extra work, they won’t be able to return to school,” she said.

    .@Malala talking about girls education and making it a priority #EmiratesLitFest pic.twitter.com/Pf9hQpsb8S
    — EmiratesLitFest (@EmiratesLitFest) February 6, 2021

    Further highlighting the issues Yousafzai said, “We need to be aware of what the impact of such disasters could be on the progress we are making.”
    She also added that it was every girl’s right globally to receive a “safe, quality and free education”.
    “They should have the right to complete 12 years of education,” she said. “Every girl should have the right to dream and then to fulfil those dreams.”

    Just like that the big #EmiratesLitFest weekend is over!
    We want to thank everyone who made it down to watch a session, take part in a workshop, or just have a fun family day out. pic.twitter.com/9wm5KezVwi
    — EmiratesLitFest (@EmiratesLitFest) February 7, 2021

    Yousafzai rose to global prominence in 2012 after being shot in the head by Taliban gunmen as she boarded her school bus in north-west Pakistan.
    The teen first became a target for the regime after defying a ban issued in 2009 forbidding girls to go to school and penning an anonymous blog for the BBC highlighting life under Taliban rule with a personal emphasis on women’s right to education.
    She went on to become the youngest person ever to Nobel Peace Prize in 2014, being just 17-years-old. The human rights activist went to go on to begin her studies at Oxford University in 2017.
    She now continues to advocate for the rights of girls globally to receive a full education.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Images: Malala Fund Instagram More

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    Sheikh Mohammed proves he’s the ultimate doting grandfather

    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum may have the extremely important roles of being the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, but he’s also a true family man.
    In new photos shared by Her Highness Sheikha Latifa Bint Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, Sheikh Mohammed playing his role as grandfather perfectly.

    The first photo featured Sheikha Latifa’s husband Sheikh Faisal Saud Khalid Al Qasimi and their three-year-old son Mohammed bin Faisal Al Qassimi and their four-month daughter – who’s name has not yet been made public – being held by grandfather Sheikh Mohammed.

    In the following series of photos shared by Sheikha Latifa, the Ruler of Dubai is seen doting on his grandson Mohammed bin Faisal making hand gestures and playing in the garden.
    Sheikha Latifa sweetly captioned the post, “I love you dad.”
    Her Highness welcomed her second child with husband Sheikh Faisal back in October. Their first child, Mohammed bin Faisal, was born in July 2018, just over two years after the couple married in early 2016.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Images: @latifamrm1 Instagram More

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    King Abdullah and Queen Rania pay tribute to the late king of Jordan

    King Abdullah II and Queen Rania have paid their respects to the late King Hussein of Jordan on the anniversary of his passing.
    Her Majesty Queen Rania shared a black and white photo of herself and King Abdullah paying tribute to the late Jordanian monarch where he was laid to rest.

    “With His Majesty King Abdullah II at the King Hussein Mausoleum, while paying our respects to the late King Hussein on the anniversary of his passing,” Queen Rania captioned the photo. “May his precious soul rest in peace.”
    A photo from the archives of His Majesty King Abdullah and the late Jordanian king was also shared on the Royal Hashemite Court’s Instagram of the father-son duo adorned in their military outfits.

    King Hussein passed away 22 years ago on February 7, 1999 aged 63.

    Further paying tribute to the late monarch, King Abdullah and Queen Rania visted the Al Hussein Social Foundation for Oprahns, which was founded in 1953 by King Hussien.
    “This place holds a special place in His Majesty King Abdullah’s heart, so too do Jordan’s orphans,” Queen Rania said.
    Upon his death in 1999, King Abdullah ascended to the throne, making his then 27-year-old wife the princess consort. March 22, 1999, King Abdullah proclaimed her queen making her Queen Rania of Jordan.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Images: Queen Rania Instagram More

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    Head & Heart – EW’s February cover star Yasmine Sima

    February’s – ‘The Love Issue’ – Download Now

    Words & Creative Direction: Amy Sessions
    Photography: Greg Adamski
    Videographer: Steve Erana
    Fashion Assistant: Sarah Joseph
    Hair & Makeup: Melanie Meyer at MMG artists
    With special thanks to Al Faya Retreat, Al Batayeh, Sharjah.

    Emirates Woman cover star Yasmine Sima discusses self-love and following your heart.
    Last year was a challenge in many ways and travel was less possible. How did this affect you both positively and negatively?
    Last year definitely stopped everyone in their tracks. For me personally, staying healthy became a priority. Of course, the sudden change of pace and the uncertainty made me very uncomfortable at first, but I slowly began to take advantage of this time alone, and used it to better myself. One of the biggest decisions for me was deciding to go to law school and this time and break in schedule definitely helped me prepare myself for it in the best way.
    How does living in LA affect your aesthetic and what do you love about living there?
    What I love most about LA is that it is easy-going and accepting of everything. I have definitely kept my London aesthetic in terms of style though. The one thing about LA that feels different than any other city, for me at least, is the peace of mind and clarity it gives you.

    Tell us about pursuing Human Rights Law?
    I have been wanting to pursue human rights law since I was little. During my years in London, I did a lot of work with different organizations such as Refugee Crisis Foundation’s Yemen Container Appeal, in sending aid to refugees. I also spent most weekends at The Soup Kitchen for almost three years. I think these definitely made me realize that this is what I wanted to be doing.
    After I left London and started living in LA, everything came together and I started preparing for it. I am very excited to start law school in the fall.
    When working on current projects – what do you look for in a collaboration?
    I have always tried to focus on working with brands that I align with aesthetically. I was fortunate to be able to work with brands and designers I love such as Saint Laurent and Valentino.
    I also tend to look for projects where I am able to use the platform to speak about organizations and causes that I believe in. Sometimes I hit the jackpot and get to work on projects that offer both.

    Do you have any mentors in life or business who help you navigate the right path?
    Definitely. I very randomly met a performance/mental coach, named Rob Brinded, around 3 years ago in London who absolutely changed my life. It was fate! He helped me realize my full potential and taught me how to maximize my abilities and use them towards achieving my goals. I wouldn’t be where I am without him today, and he is absolutely a huge influence in my life. I have sessions with him whenever I need clarity on a situation and I absolutely feel surer of myself after each call.  
    Which Instagram accounts do you follow for inspiration?
    I love @aoi and @digitalf33ls
    What advice would you give to your younger self, starting out?
    Everyone finds their path and achieves what they were meant to achieve in their own time. I used to stress so much about wanting accomplish so much at a very young age, but everything has its own timing. In learning that, everything you’re meant to achieve will present itself to you. I realized that trying to rush to achieve just for the sake of doing it usually means you’re not doing it for the right reasons!
    A correct mindset is everything.
    This issue is ‘The Love Issue’ – what is love to you?
    This is a great question. This year has definitely been the year of self-love for me. It has been a difficult year because of the pandemic, but being able to focus on myself like never before has been amazing and I’ve never felt better.
    February’s – ‘The Love Issue’ – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied
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    Meet the newest additions to Sheikh Hamdan’s family

    His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, has added to his family.
    Taking to Instagram over the weekend, Sheikh Hamdan shared a litter of puppies lazing around looking totally adorable.

    With his love for animals always being there from back in the day, every video posted is bound to go viral as Fazza expresses his ardent love for them.

    The puppies in his stories are seen lounging around the area, they cuddled together, adding their own hint of mischievous elements while playing with the Crown Prince of Dubai.

    His Highness is a big animal fan, being the proud owner of a number of falcons, a baby pony and a number of other furry friends who he absolutely adores.
    The Crown Prince of Dubai has also been known to swim with sharks as seen in his video posted in the Norwegian Sea. While also doing the unusual, Sheikh Hamdan has also swam with an elephant underwater, as it dived using its trunk as a snorkel while enjoying the deep waters of the ocean.

    We can’t wait to see which of his furry friend is to be his next family member.
    – For more about Dubai’s lifestyle, news and fashion scene follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram.
    Images: Sheikh Hamdan Instagram More