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    Here’s How To Create A Morning Routine You’ll Actually Stick To

    Ann Stewart, Reiki therapist, Kundalini yoga and meditation student and mentor will be the first to tell you that she struggled to stick to a morning routine. It makes you feel amazing: you start your day strong and the rest of it is as productive. But come the next day, you’re exhausted, and the thought of hitting the snooze button is just so tempting…

    “For a long time I struggled to stick to my spiritual practices, even though I loved how they made me feel,” says Stewart. “We come up with all types of blocks to start our day the way we know we should. Some of the things we tell ourselves: I’m not a morning person, I deserve to sleep in, and I’m not feeling well today.”

    An inner power mentor, Stewart now helps other women empower themselves and achieve more. “A regular morning routine makes me feel more creative, focused, and my day flows without effort,” she says. “But it’s not always perfect – and that’s OK. When I miss a day, I just start again the next morning, but when I do skip I try to make quiet time for myself during the course of my workday,” says Stewart. 

    What’s a good morning routine?

    A good morning routine involves engaging in a healthful practice upon waking up. Science tells us a great deal about the benefits of waking up and having a morning routine. Successful people thrive by it. It can go a long way towards managing a healthy weight and leave you feeling focused and in charge of the day. Read on for Stewart’s tips to finally becoming a morning person.

    1. Just Begin

    The only way to change your current morning routine is to start creating new habits. The only way to create new habits is to actually start doing it. Not at the beginning of next week, next month, or next year, but now. Decide on three simple activities that make you feel more centred and connected to your soul. Reading, writing, meditation, and yoga will all create the types of positive changes you are looking for.

    2. Do it for 40 days 

    According to yogic teaching, it takes 40 days to change a habit, and 90 days to confirm that habit. Give yourself 40 days to make sure you set yourself up for success. If you skip a day, begin again at day 1. Make a challenge out of it and remember to have fun. Your subconscious, which directs about 60 per cent of your activities and responses by habit, has to get the message. By turning to your practice repeatedly day by day, choice by choice, the effects will start to seep into the deeper parts of your mind.

    3. Know your why

    Make a short list of all the reasons you want to create a new routine for yourself. Maybe it’s to gather your thoughts and become more centred. Maybe you want to incorporate exercise in your morning routine to make sure you actually get to it before you’re exhausted at the end of your day. Then list all the benefits you will receive by starting these new actions. This will help you during times when you don’t feel like it, and believe me, those times will definitely come.

    4. Keep it simple 

    When you first start, just keep your routine simple. Start by waking up 30 min earlier than usual. Drink a glass of warm water with lemon. Sit quietly for five minutes and then begin whichever activity you have chosen to engage in for the morning. If meditating for 30 minutes every morning feels impossible, start by committing to just three minutes instead. In just three minutes, you can have an effect on your blood circulation and chemistry.

    Making changes in our lives isn’t always easy, but it is possible. Remember to speak to yourself in a loving and compassionate way. Be patient. Working up to creating lasting change is part of the process and putting strategies in place to stick to your commitment will make it easier to achieve. More

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    Who is Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum? 5 things to know about this UAE royal

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
    As a keen advocate for women and known to empower the community of local designers in the UAE, Sheikha Mahra is always inspiring her 172k followers on social media.
    With news about this Royal recently getting married to Sheikh Mana Al Makhtoum, her fans are eager to know more about this Princess.
    To find out more, Emirates Woman shares everything that you might not know about Sheikha Mahra.
    She gives back to the community

    Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is no stranger to giving back to the local community. Known for her philanthropic efforts in the region, she is always spreading joy and was also seen spending many afternoons with children of determination. Known to never shy away from affect, Sheikha Mahra also shared an emotional moment where she stopped and reached down to hug a young child, with all smiles in a heartwarming portrait. With her philanthropic efforts playing a key role to raise awareness about different issues in society, her kindness and generosity are truly irreplaceable.
    She loves horses

    It’s well-known horse racing is a major passion of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and it’s clearly a love he has passed on to his children. Sharing his love for horses is his daughter, Sheikha Mahra, is often seen attending the races and posing with her favourite animals.
    She supports local designers

    Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is one such person that is continuing to champion regional designers and their flawless creations. Known to attend the Icons Exhibition, Sheikha Mahra is a regular visitor of its different locations around the UAE, as it shines a light on different designers in the region. The Icons Exhibition is an event held multiple times a year showcasing local designers and talent and is run by Emirati designer and creative Roudha Al Shamsi. She always shares series of photos and a video of her visit to any exhibition where she is seen learning about various local businesses visiting different booths at the event, from jewellery to food to makeup to clothes.
    She’s known for her sartorial choices

    More and more nowadays we’re seeing abayas come in an array of different colourways and patterns – far from the traditional all-black ensemble – and one individual known for her sartorial choices is Her Highness Sheikha Mahra al Maktoum. Her Highness is known for effortlessly playing with different patterns and colourways and always knows how to carry it off. Whether attending exhibitions or posing with her favourite horses, she continuously stuns with every different look.
    She completed her Bachelor’s in the UK

    Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum has a degree in International Relations from a UK university. The royal princess also has a college degree from Mohammed bin Rashid Government Administration.
    She recently got married

    According to an official statement on the Sheikha’s official Instagram account, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra Al makhtoum and her fiancé Sheikh Mana Al Makhtoum have signed the marriage contract. On April 5, 2023, both Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana shared that they celebrated their Katb Al-Kitaab — the official marriage ceremony and signing of the marriage contract through social media.
    Swipe through the gallery to look back at Sheikha Mahra’s key moments:

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

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    What you need to know for 2023’s first Eclipse series

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    1 hour ago

    As the final Full Moon lunation in Libra passes, it asks, what have you missed? It is something you may have overlooked. It needs more clarity, so please give it some attention. Thankfully, Jupiter was near the Sun, which is very beneficial so you can expect positive news shortly. Even if you are not overly ambitious, the house topics point to success, luck, and limelight in your career, around your workplace or in areas related to your health. Everything will depend on how you feel, although your need for recognition should err toward more modest behaviours rather than trying to outshine the ‘Master’
    . More importantly, you’re also probably thinking, is it Eclipse season again? You may recall the last series in early November, where we forewarned you that Pluto would reveal his plans for 2024 by April 2023. And just like that, we have arrived at that point. If you missed that prediction, then head to thekarmicsoul.com
    Let’s do a quick astrological (and astronomical) refresh. Eclipses travel in zodiacal opposition, in pairs, two weeks apart. This is another of our seven-part Taurus-Scorpio series that began on 19 November 2021. They wrap up their latest life lessons for us on 28 October 2023. Eclipses aim to open new energetic gateways through undeniable and decidedly uncomfortable situations. They will always form a powerful part of your karmic journey through life.
    This series takes place in two fixed signs, so those with personal planets in Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius must pay particular attention. Try to keep a journal during Eclipse time to remind yourself of any breakthroughs or discoveries you may have. The devil will be in the detail. As the Moon crosses the Ecliptic, or path of the Sun, it forms an exact degree and minute of the opposite sign in the chart. The Nodes work together to create a balance; the North seeks fulfillment and growth; the South struggles to maintain the status quo.
    The New Moon in Taurus Eclipse on 21 April sits in the house of partnerships and long-term commitments. Do you know where it’s heading? It suggests some may have second thoughts about committing to a current collaboration, union, or somewhere they find sensual pleasure. The Taurus New Moon Eclipse opposes Scorpio’s South Node, suggesting that some may need a romantic break from their loved ones in favour of more time with their friends. Remember, as the North and South Nodes transit through each zodiac sign; they work with the moon to test your feelings and challenge the direction around the particular house topic it touches. This time, the Moon will be exalted in a very adamant Taurus. Watch out for fluctuating moods around 7th house topics. Some may be touchy, brooding, selfish, and emotionally manipulative.
    The precursor, of course, is MEN, who are happily married. They do not want the drama or the ramifications of what divorce brings. Could you give them some space anyway? Can they escape into their man cave and do whatever they need? This is especially true if they like to create or play music, write or be involved in stage, television or film. It appears they are stuck or struggling with a particular concept or idea that is readily accepted by a bigger group of people, and men, as we know, can be like a dog with a bone.
    Mercury is transiting through Venus-ruled Taurus, strongly challenged by Scorpio’s two ruling planets, Mars and a subversive Pluto, pushing for long-term change. They are trying to create some thinking room around your home life.

    Women want to be recognised for what they know and have to contribute emotionally to a partnership. Mercury is pushing them to have conversations around love, intimacy, and stability, and she knows what she needs to say. It could go either way, so we look to natal Mars in Cancer to see what she says: “I need my desires met”, or we need to have a new partnership philosophy moving forward. Pluto suggests a choice needs to be made between your old self or where you currently live and the desire for more personal freedom.
    Deep down, you know you’ve seen better days. Inconsistent and unreliable events force you to ride the inevitable waves of emotion.
    The Universe wants you to be a true embodiment of your spirit – put yourself first. Mars and Saturn have worked together to help push you toward your goals. Black Moon Lilith has one eye firmly on the spotlight, moving you toward your success, but at the expense of others.
    The Full Moon in Scorpio’s Solar Eclipse illuminates our skies on 5 May, signalling what must be left behind yet again. It’s not easy; it is fraught with conflict and hard work. The problems from the New Moon Eclipse are now layered with behind-the-scenes questions, some deep and penetrating, with unknowable answers. Mercury can appear almost accusatory. Expect some behind-the-scenes detective work by the emotionally thwarted!
    On a brighter note, that feeling of relative freedom is so incredibly liberating. Love is discombobulated. The energy flows toward Neptune, clouding any certainty around your options. Where should you go, and what should you do? Perhaps you have taken things for granted? Neptune suggests any deception was gradual and hidden by moments of beautiful intimacy.
    Business partnerships are bubbling nicely if you focus on communications, science, spiritualism, and technology. The team is a terrific blend of entrepreneurial spirit and talent. Creative houses also run by men are favoured. They have the edge at the moment and are well-liked by their clients.
    Wait! Who’s shining in their career? I will tell you who! Those who have done the work. They are dedicated, bursting with new concepts, and carefully paying attention to detail. Anyone with a discerning eye for beauty should expect favourable reviews.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @yana.potter.art More

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    Sheikh Hamdan visits Dubai’s Atlantis The Royal

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    Dubai’s Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum paid a visit to the newly opened Atlantis The Royal last week.
    The ultra-luxe resort situated on the outer crescent of Palm Jumeirah has received the Royal stamp of approval.
    On the hotel’s official Instagram page, a post of Fazza overlooking the Palm was shared with the caption, “It was an honour to welcome Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, as he took in the stunning views from our Royal Mansion.

    When Sheikh Mohammed visited
    Prior to its official opening on February 10, 2023, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE paid a visit to this expansive property. His Highness toured the resort and was briefed on its interior design inspired by Bedouin culture. The hotel celebrates the preciousness of water with beautiful water features, sculptures and hues.
    VIP opening

    For its grand preview weekend, the 795-room mega-hotel on Palm Jumeirah witnessed an exclusive weekend of VIP guests, celebrities and media personnel before the expansive property officially opened its doors. With Queen B marking her first private concert since 2016, many A-listers flew down, especially for the event and made a special appearance on the red carpet in their stand-out silhouettes. From Kendall Jenner to Ellen Pompeo, the star-studded event, welcomed A-listers from around the world to witness the grand-scale weekend. This expansive property features 795 rooms, suites, and a penthouse with a series of record-breaking experiences including the largest jellyfish aquarium in the world, the first-ever Nobu by the Beach, meditation with the dolphins, unique fire and water fountains and other one-of-a-kind experiences. With a host of must-visit restaurants and facilities, the property includes a host of culinary havens such as Milos, Jaleo, La Mar, Ling Ling, Nobu by the Beach and Cloud 22.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    In pics: Dubai to open the world’s tallest hotel in 2024

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    13 hours ago

    Known for its record-breaking man-made structures, Dubai has always been on top of its game regarding achieving outstanding titles.
    Primed to become the world’s tallest tower, The Ciel Hotel led by The First Group, will be the largest and most complex development to date. This 365-metre skyscraper encapsulates the power of an integrated superstructure setting a new benchmark for the hotel industry in the UAE.
    This 82-storey property is set to open in the first quarter of 2024, with the installation of its façade brackets reportedly being completeted up to the 72nd floor.
    “Ciel will offer guests an unparalleled experience with its unique design, luxury amenities, and stunning views. Ciel is not just a building, but a symbol of Dubai’s ambition, innovation, creativity, and excellence”, said Rob Burns, CEO, The First Group.
    Another standout feature of Ciel will be its 300m tall interior atrium that will feature vertically stacked landscaped and naturally ventilated terraces. This interactive space will give occupants a shared communal space for an unparalleled experience.
    The architectural firm NORR designed the hotel’s key features, such as its observation deck with views of Dubai’s skyline and its rooftop infinity pool and bar on the 76th floor.
    Swipe through the gallery to see inside the property.

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

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    Sheikha Mahra is reportedly engaged to Sheikh Mana Al Maktoum

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    25 mins ago

    Congratulations are in order for Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as this royal is reportedly now engaged.
    According to Arabian Royal Agency, an announcement was reportedly made on March 22, 2023, Wednesday evening for the daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai being engaged to Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum.

    With little revealed about the engagement, the low-key ceremony was held as a start for the two royals to build their life together.
    After recently graduating from London with an International Relations degree, Sheikha Mahra is shared a series of portraits on her graduation day last month with her 139k fans congratulating her on this big milestone achievement.

    Known to attend some of the UAE’s most popular events, Her Highness Sheikha Mahra is always visiting several openings and attending new launches in the UAE, including the Icons exhibitions, Sheikha Mahra plays a pivotal role in uplifting women in the region including upcoming entrepreneurs, fashion designers and leading philanthropists. By always spreading joy in community, Sheikha Mahra often spends time with children of determination and welcomes everyone with open arms.
    Always seen in a traditional ensemble Sheikha Mahra’s sartorial choices never fail to impress us as she always plays with different patterns and colourways for any public appearance and events.
    Swipe through the gallery to see some of our favourite moments of Sheikha Mahra from her feed

    We wish the couple a big congratulations for this wonderful news!
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @hhshmahra More

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    In pics: Princess Reema Bandar Al Saud visits Saudi Arabia’s first female astronaut

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    3 hours ago

    Saudi Arabia is making waves by sending their first Saudi female astronaut, Rayana Barnawi to space this year.
    To congratulate both Barnawi and Ali Al Qarni who will accompany her on this mission, Princess Reem Bint Bandar Al Saud, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to the United States of America visited them this week.
    She visited them in Houston and toured the facilities of NASA Johnson with Axiom Space where the astronauts are currently training and even saw the site’s mission control center first-hand.
    In a post shared on her feed, the caption said, “I had the pleasure to meet with #Saudi astronauts Ali & Rayyanah (the first Arab & Muslim female astronaut) who will shape science through 11 experiments which they’ll take park in while joining the Ax-2 space mission’s crew this quarter.”

    I met with #Saudi astronauts Ali & Rayyanah (the first Arab & Muslim female astronaut) who will shape science through 11 experiments which they’ll take part in while joining the Ax-2 space mission’s crew this quarter.@saudispace @Astro_Rayyanah @AstroAli11#Saudi_towards_Space pic.twitter.com/uv5ctQ3xwo
    — Reema Bandar Al-Saud (@rbalsaud) March 21, 2023

    With an additional set of images shared on her Twitter feed, she wrote, “It was a privilege to visit @NASA_Johnson in Houston and tour their facilities including the Mission Control Center, and see our astronauts in training. I would like to thank NASA and @Axiom_Space for their gracious hospitality.”
    Set to make history, the mission comes nearly 40 years after the Kingdom had sent the first Arab, Prince Sultan bin Salman to space in 1985.
    Scheduled to launch from the US to the ISS, Barnawi and Al Qarni will join the crew of the AX-2 space mission, to activate scientific innovations at the level of space sciences and develop human capital by attracting talents and necessary skills to keep in line with the country’s 2030 mission.
    Swipe through the gallery to see portraits from Princess Reema’s visit to the International Space Station:

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

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    UAE announces the official start date of Ramadan

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    43 mins ago

    The most sacred month of the year begins this week in the UAE on Thursday, March 23, 2023.
    Depending on the moon sighting, the Islamic months last for 29 or 30 days, marking tomorrow as the start of a month in the Islamic Hijri calendar, which was not spotted on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 night.
    Special Iftar tents will be set up outside mosques and prayers will last well into the evening as this sacred month begins tomorrow.
    Marking the first holy month this year without any COVID-related restrictions, residents will be able to host Iftars along with gatherings and family. Additionally, masks are not required to be worn by worshippers inside mosques or any public places in the country.
    For those abstaining from food and drinks from dusk to dawn will observe shorter working hours during this period.
    Shorter working hours

    The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has announced a reduction of 2 working hours per day for all employees in the private sector in the UAE during the holy month of Ramadan. pic.twitter.com/ukHWkyo19h
    — وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) March 13, 2023

    According to the UAE’s Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE), the official work timings for private sector employees during Ramadan have been reduced by two hours. Government employees will work 9am-2.30pm, Monday to Thursday, and 9am-noon on Fridays while private sector workers will see their hours reduced by two hours per day.
    Eid Al Fitr break
    If you’re looking to plan ahead for this year’s first long weekend. The official Eid Al Fitr holiday in the UAE will commence from Ramadan 29 to Shawwal 3. As per the current astrological predictions, the break will take place from Thursday, April 20 to Sunday, April 23, 2023.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @visitabudhabi & Feature Image: Instagram @mindz.eye More