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    Desk Detox: This Dubai-based expert shares why it’s important to switch off after work

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    Life

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    Words by Dr Gurveen Ranger, Clinical Psychologist, Adult Specialist at Sage Clinics
    We are currently living in an era where constant connectivity is the norm.
    In a lifestyle dominated by smartphones, smart watches, tablets, and coupled with the increase in remote working since the pandemic, many of us will find ourselves blurring the boundaries between work and home life.
    Lack of work/life balance can also lead to disturbed sleep, especially if you are checking emails just before bed, and lower our mood. If we are find ourselves unable to ‘switch off’ after work, we are less present in our personal lives, and therefore may not experience as much enjoyment from activities as we once did and our relationships are likely to also suffer.

    Not only does this impact our quality of life, but also has the opposite impact to what we may expect when it comes to how productive and efficient we are. In this article, we will look at why we struggle to disconnect, the consequences of this and most importantly – how do we do a desk detox?
    Here are a few tips to ease the process:
    Set clear goals
    Ask yourself, do I need a desk detox? How much work am I doing outside of hours? Why? Is doing this extra work making me feel any more on top of things? Based on your answer to these questions, set clear goals to work on – e.g., is it reducing screen time? Is it protected work times? Is a conversation with employers needed?
    Be realistic
    I appreciate that for many, it may be unrealistic to expect no work outside of work hours. If this is the case for you (i.e., there are likely serious consequences of not keeping an eye on things) then setting boundaries for how much time you spend working outside of hours can be helpful. E.g., protecting time every couple of hours or so to look at emails, and engaging in other things outside of these times. This can help reduce the constant triggering of ‘threat state’ every few minutes.
    Let people know
    Letting people know when you are contactable vs when you are not can help manage feelings of guilt that may arise when disconnecting. Block out time in your diaries, set “do not disturb’ notifications on when appropriate, and let colleagues know the boundaries about what constitutes emergency contact. This can also be healthy modelling for colleagues and juniors.
    Allocate tech-free zones
    Protect time in your after-work schedule which doesn’t involve technology. If you work from home, is there a space where you work which doesn’t interfere with your daily home space? If not, can you hide away your work equipment when you log off? Out of sight, out of mind!
    Increase offline activities
    See if you can come up with some after work activities that don’t involve technology, thus reducing the pull into constant checking of work-related material. Walks, reading, socializing can all be great ways to enhance quality of life and connect with your value systems outside of the professional sphere.
    Use digital wellbeing tools
    Did you know most smartphones allow you to set limits on how much you use certain apps? You could also put ‘do not disturb’ mode on or turn off notifications when you are doing other things. Another tool many I have worked with find helpful is to remove things like email apps from easy access – they can be hidden in a digital folder on your home screen which means you have more of a chance to break the habitual cycle of opening the app every time you are on your phone – again out of sight out of mind.
    Reminder – this isn’t about being completely tech free or never doing anything for work outside of work time, as let’s be honest that isn’t realistic in today’s world or desirable some industries and roles. Instead, aim for balance – take a step back, protect downtime, use smartphones in psychologically smarter ways to enhance your wellbeing and social relationships. Not only will this likely improve your quality of life, but your productivity and job satisfaction levels too. You could start today, even with something small and see how these transforms over time!
    You can find out more about Dr Gurveen Ranger and the team at Sage Clinics: here. For more information about the services Sage Clinics offers or to book an appointment visit sage-clinics.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @yana.potter.art More

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      Here’s How To Actually Practise Mindfulness And Unlock Inner Peace

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      We’ve got some good news. While you may feel that mindfulness is a a lot to get a handle of, the truth is you already practise mindfulness in other ways all the time. For example, you’re mindful when you need to change lanes, or when you use an oven mitt so you don’t burn yourself.

      So why not try intentionally putting some mindfulness techniques into practice? We’ve got everything you need to know right here in one place so you can click away from this article a whole lot more zen.

      What Is Mindfulness?

      Based on Zen, Vipassanā, and Tibetan meditation techniques, the concept is over 2 500 years old and has been practised over countless generations. It’s the practice of being aware and conscious in the present moment, calmly acknowledging and accepting your feelings and is used as a technique in therapy. This awareness has opened the door for thousands of pieces of literature on the topic because it works so well.

      3 Books To Read About Mindfulness

      The Power Of Now by Eckhart Tolle

      Wherever You Go by Jon Kabat-Zinn

      The Miracle Of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hanh

      READ MORE: These 3 Mental Exercises Can Help You Find Your Purpose In Life At Any Age

      What Are The Benefits Of Mindfulness?

      Studies reveal a direct link between mindfulness practices such as meditation, breathwork and yoga, and an array of health benefits.

      Mindfulness Can Lower Your Blood Pressure

      A 2022 study in the Journal of Tehran University Heart Centre found that mindfulness meditation “showed a significant reduction in the mean blood pressure, stress, depression and anxiety scores, as well as a significant improvement in different aspects of quality of life in patients.” Fabulous news!

      It Can Reduce Inflammation

      A 2019 study found that mindfulness meditation helped the brain manage stress – a known inflammation trigger – and therefore could reduce levels of inflammation.

      Mindfulness Can Promote Better Sleep

      A 2018 study found a promising correlation between mindfulness practises and better sleep with less disturbance. Other experts believe it might even help fight insomnia, too.

      It Can Help You Recover Quicker From Stress

      While it’s kinda the whole point for mindfulness to nix stress, it could also help you bounce back from current stressors. That’s likely because mindfulness equips you to better respond to stress, helping you recover from it faster.

      It Can Positively Influence Willpower and Interpersonal Relationships

      Studies have found that when you practise mindfulness, your ability to react to relationship stress is better. Also, your satisfaction in relationships improves.

      It’s Good For Your Immune System

      Physically, mindfulness practices enhance immune functioning and foster greater bodily awareness.

      It Can Shift Your Mindset

      When you practise mindfulness, a few great things happen. “Mindfulness is more than just a practice,” says Cami Barausse, Head of Yoga at Virgin Active. “It’s a whole mindset shift.”

      It Can Give You Emotional Balance And Mental Clarity

      “For many, it has offered a transformative pathway towards mental clarity and emotional balance,” says Barausse.

      It Can Help You Handle Pressure

      “Mindfulness can empower you to navigate through life’s daily pressures with composure, ensuring that you view challenges as transient phases,” Barausse explains.

      It’s Great For Fitness Enthusiasts

      Additionally, mindfulness offers a plethora of performance benefits for sportspeople and fitness enthusiasts. For athletes, the holistic benefits derived from mindfulness practices can be especially pronounced. Personal trainers and coaches often encourage daily mindfulness and meditation to boost their overall performance and recovery.

      READ MORE: How To Turn Those Forgotten Resolutions Into Attainable Goals

      How To Practise Mindfulness

      “Incorporating mindfulness into one’s routine can be a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their wellness journey,” says Barausse. For her, it can be as simple as incorporating the practice into your everyday life.

      “Dedicate a few minutes each morning, during a break, or before sleep. Find a quiet space, focus on your breathing, and gently acknowledge your thoughts before bringing your attention back to your breath. This simple practice can anchor you in the present, enhancing your day or preparing you for restful sleep.”

      But if you’re not quite ready to be alone with your thoughts, these activities can help you settle into the present moment, too.

      1. Practise Mindfulness With Yoga

      “The social aspect of mindfulness as a group makes it a validating, often profound experience, which many people find spiritually significant,” says Barausse. So head to your local gym to try out a yoga class.

      By focusing on your breathing as you work your way through each pose, you allow yourself to focus only on the present moment – which in itself is an act of mindfulness. Allow other thoughts to melt away and focus only on your breath, each moment, and how it feels.

      Want to get started at home? Try this easy 15 minute yoga flow.

      2. Try Walking Meditation

      If it’s hard to sit in one position while focusing on creating mindfulness, so why not try a meditative walk? During the walk, focus on your breath, the air and objects around you.

      And if you want to level up those walks, why not take on our WH Walking Challenge right here.

      READ MORE: 18 Mental Health Books For Anxiety, People-Pleasing And More

      3. Use Journalling

      Nothing forces you to zero in on your emotions quite like flooding the pages of your diary with your thoughts. While you’re writing, you’re forced to focus on the words you’re creating, which creates mindfulness. You can also take note of the texture of the paper, the way the ink flows, and where in your body you’re holding tension.

      Want to get started? Here are 15 wellness journals you can buy right now.

      4. Do Crafts

      Any activity that requires you to use your hands and stay focused on your given task is a gateway to mindfulness. Keep yourself from wondering thoughts by focusing on the task at hand, like perfecting your brushstroke as you paint.

      5. Eat Mindfully

      Not only is this a healthier way to consume food, it also has mood benefits. While chewing, focus on the feel of your food, the way it smells and how it’s filling you up. You’ll be surprised to see you’ll likely eat less, too.

      6. Try An App

      Mindfulness and meditation apps help you settle into the OG meditation practice. They’ll also let you customise things like the voice, listening time and more. Try apps like Headspace, Calm or Insight Timer.

      3 Mindfulness Apps To Download

      Headspace app

      Calm app

      Insight Timer More

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      Anna Paquin walks with cane and ‘struggles with speech’ at NYC movie premiere due to mystery health issues

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      ACTRESS Anna Paquin has been spotted walking with a cane at her movie premiere amid mystery health issues.On Thursday night, Anna, 41, attended the premiere of her new movie, A Bit of Light.Anna Paquin attended the A Bit of Light premiere in New YorkCredit: The Mega AgencyAnna pictured with her husband Stephen Moyer at their movie premiereCredit: GettyAnna walked with a cane at her movie premiereCredit: The Mega AgencyAnna revealed she has been struggling with an unspecified health issueCredit: GettyIn the film directed by her husband, Stephen Moyer, 54, Anna plays Ella, a recovering alcoholic struggling after having lost custody of young daughters.Held at the Crosby Street Hotel in the Big Apple, the former child actress donned a sparkly black dress at the event. She showed off her long legs while dressed in sheer stockings.The She’s All That star posed for the camera while wearing black high heels. Anna leaned against her black cane for support as the Piano actress smiled for the camera.  She pulled her dark hair tightly into a back bun.Stephen then posed with his wife as he wore an all-black ensemble. After getting married in 2010, the couple now share two kids: twins Poppy and Charlie, 11.Most read in Celebrity’I’M NOT SENTIMENTAL’During the premiere, the True Blood star revealed to People that she has been battling an unspecified health issue for about two years.”It hasn’t been easy,” she confessed.The Piano star thanked her hubby for his support through the ordeal, which has left her with mobility and speech issues.”He’s my favorite person to play with,” she said.”I’m not sentimental when it comes to work.”Anna Paquin’s RolesHere are a list of movies you might have seen Anna Paquin in besides True Blood:
      The Piano (1993)
      She’s All That (1999)
      The X-Men (2000)
      Almost Famous (2000)
      Finding Forrester (2000)
      Trick r’ Treat (2007)
      Scream 4 (2011)
      Bellevue (2017)
      The Irishman (2019)

      A source told the publication that the TV star is expected to make a full recovery.This is not the first time the star has shared her health status.’NOT HEALTHY’In 2011, the X-Men notable opened up to Health.com (via CNN) about how losing her tonsils affected her weight.”I think there’s also a really big difference between looking healthy and being healthy,” Anna said.He’s my favorite person to play with. I’m not sentimental when it comes to work.Anna PaquinPeople”People in this town have a weird tendency to say, if someone’s lost weight, ‘Oh my God, you look amazing.””And you’re like, “I just had my tonsils out and didn’t eat for three weeks,” she shared.READ MORE SUN STORIES”Literally, I had my tonsils out last year. You’re on a liquid diet.””So, of course, you lose weight. But it’s not healthy,” Anna concluded.Anna became a blockbuster star because of the X-Men moviesCredit: RexAnna and Stephen walked down the aisle back in 2010Credit: Reuters More

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      How To Turn Those Forgotten Resolutions Into Attainable Goals

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      We can’t think of a better way to remind you that you’re never too late to try again or to attempt new things! So, we’ll borrow the late Aaliyah’s words: “…And if at first you don’t succeed, then dust yourself off and try again.” We know, it’s simpler read/said than done! This should also apply to those New Year’s resolutions you have gotten around to implementing – or that vision board you promised to finalise by the end of January.

      If you’ve long abandoned the New Year’s resolutions you swore you’d pursue in 2024, welcome – there’s many of us here! Research suggests around 80% of New Year’s resolutions fail by February of the year they are made.

      “Often those well-intentioned proclamations have to do with improving our wellbeing,” says Maya Rutstein, product architect at soSerene, a digital wellbeing platform. According to Forbes research, the most common theme for New Year’s resolutions in 2023 was improving mental health. And for 2024, it was getting fitter. So, before you give up on yourself for another whole year, let’s take a look at how you can reboot those  fitness resolutions into solid goals.

      READ MORE: 18 Mental Health Books For Anxiety, People-Pleasing And More

      Why New Year’s Resolutions Fail?

      “To avoid making the same mistakes, we need to look at why our resolutions failed in the first place,” says Rutstein. “For starters, a New Year’s resolution is often a broad statement of intent that’s inspired by the tradition of setting intentions for the new year but lacks any kind of plan when it comes to how we’re going to achieve success – or what success even looks like. It’s hard to achieve a goal when you don’t have a clear roadmap to follow or any way of measuring your progress,” she explains.

      The second reason for failed (read: delayed) resolutions is that they are often made while we are in an idealistic state of mind.

      “So, we end up setting overly ambitious goals that become unrealistic once we’re back in our regular routines. This leads to disappointment and discouragement,” says Rutstein. Other reasons we might fail are lack of support, external pressures such as life changes or stress or simply losing interest.  

      How To Make Goals That Stick

      A good framework for solid goal-setting is the SMART approach. “This is designed to take a vague aspiration and turn it into a goal that can be achieved,” shares Rutstein. SMART is an acronym that stands for: 

      Specific: The goal should clearly define what you want to accomplish. It should answer the who, what, where, when, which and why.

      Measurable: There should be a way to measure your progress. This helps you stay on track and motivated.

      Achievable: The goal should be realistically attainable with the resources, knowledge and time you have available.

      Relevant: The goal should align with your broader life ambitions and values. It’s important that a goal matters to the person setting it. If you’re trying to achieve something just because someone else said you should, your chances of success will be zero to low.

      Time-bound: There should be a clearly defined timeline for the goal. This creates a sense of urgency, which in turn will encourage you to prioritise working towards the goal.

      READ MORE: These 3 Mental Exercises Can Help You Find Your Purpose In Life At Any Age

      How To Rejig Your Resolutions

      To see what the SMART Approach looks like in practice, let’s take a look at the world’s favourite New Year’s resolution for 2024: “I want to get fit”. “Framed in this way, this resolution is broad and vague. It doesn’t outline how the goal will be achieved, nor does it have a measurable or time-bound aspect,” notes Rutstein. “It’s more of a wish than a goal.” 

      Transforming this intention into a SMART goal could look like this, she says: “I aim to jog for 30 minutes, three times a week, after work and increase my distance by 10% each month, aiming for a 5km run in six months.”

      This goal is specific (jogging a certain amount of time and number of days), measurable (30 minutes, three times a week, with a 10% increase in distance monthly), achievable (it starts with a manageable routine and builds gradually; it doesn’t require exercise equipment that you may not own), relevant (aligned with the broader objective of getting fit), and time-bound (there are weekly targets and a six-month milestone). It provides a clear roadmap for what success looks like and how it can be achieved.

      READ MORE: Here’s Why Burnout Among Women Is A Bigger Issue Than You’d Think

      How To Stick To Your Goals

      Setting a goal is one thing, sticking to it can be quite another. Rutstein says a mix of internal and external motivators can help you stay on track.

      “Intrinsic motivation comes from within – we engage in an activity because we find it inherently fun or satisfying,” explains Rutstein. “In the example of wanting to get fit, choose an activity that’s genuinely fun for you. If you absolutely loathe running, you may want to choose something else, like brisk walking or home workouts.”

      Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, involves external rewards or pressures, she says. “You could enter a 5km race that’s taking place in six months’ time so there’s pressure on you to train. Or you could publish your progress on social media so that you receive the reward of people acknowledging your efforts.”

      Finally, be open to learning and adapting along the journey. “Continuous learning involves seeking out new information and being receptive to changes, while adaptation means adjusting goals and methods as our understanding and circumstances evolve,” says Rutstein.

      For example, you may find that you need to change how you eat to fuel your new running habit, or that running before work is better for your schedule. Together, these principles encourage a flexible and dynamic approach to wellbeing, ensuring that your journey remains relevant and responsive to your changing needs and insights. Now that you have the tools to rejig your goals, here’s to making the rest of 2024 your best year yet! More

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      Art Curator Lerato Bereng-Moji On How Self-Honesty Improved Her Mental Health

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      Moving to a new environment in hopes of levelling up your career or life can go either way. Sometimes, it may take longer for the grass to finally be greener on the other side. That was the case for Lerato Bereng-Moji, an art curator, director and co-owner of the Stevenson Gallery, who soon learned that studying and living art were two different concepts.

      The Root Cause

      Right after graduating with a degree in fine arts from Rhodes University, Lerato joined the art scene in Cape Town. It was here where she met her art heroes and cut her teeth working in curatorship. Coming from Maseru in Lesotho, Lerato found both Cape Town and the art scene overwhelming. “Coming to Cape Town, which is kind of a mega art city, everything was a lot to take in,” she muses.

      READ MORE: How To Actually Get Better At Talking To Yourself

      “I was super starstruck when I first arrived. I remember finally meeting someone like Penny Siopis, an honorary professor at the University of Cape Town’s Michaelis School of Fine Art, whose art we’d studied in school.” Still, she found the city a tad intimidating, which took a toll on her mental health. “Cape Town is a very Eurocentric city for starters, and has a very different landscape from many African cities,” she explains.

      “While learning a lot – and I’ll always be grateful for that experience – I also found it incredibly alienating.” Lerato also struggled with resonating with the art in Cape Town.“I found that the predominant voice [in most of the art] was really unfamiliar to me. It was difficult to find my own voice and to figure out who I was, and what I wanted to do creatively in a space that had very little that I could add to my experience.” In this way, Lerato felt not only far from home geographically but conceptually, too.

      The Tides of Change

      Then in late 2010, an opportunity to travel to Joburg for a conference presented itself. At the spur of the moment, Lerato decided not to book a return ticket. “I was offered a return ticket and I kind of impulsively decided to ask for a one-way,” she recalls. She didn’t know much about Joburg at first, but grew to love it. “I really enjoyed the energy and hustle of the city and most people here are migrant labourers like myself,” she points out.

      READ MORE: Fall Asleep Faster With These 7 Hacks For Better Sleep

      Lerato started hustling to find work in the Joburg art scene, while enjoying the new Afrocentric space that spoke to her. “You immediately encounter Joburg with a punch in your face and I appreciated the honesty of the city,” she shares. Not only that, but Joburg is only a mere four-hour drive to her home country.

      In late 2013, Lerato also completed a Masters thesis, centred on Lesotho, which was met with great appreciation. “I called it Conversations at Morija. The first iteration happened in 2013, and again in 2015 and 2017,” she says. Another was held in October this 2023 around Lesotho’s Independence Day, and will centre on her recent exhibition and book How to Make a Country.

      “I now understand that the only way to make it, or to make something of myself in the world, is if I’m entirely honest,” she muses. And that’s a liberating lesson that she’s since carried into all aspects of her life!

      Parting Shot

      2010…The year Lerato learnt that Joburg was exactly what her mental health needed.

      READ MORE: TV/Radio Presenter Rorisang Thandekiso On The Moments That Defined Her Path Forever

      Best Lesson…“So often, we try to fit ourselves into the moulds that are presented as what has already been, but we’re not here to occupy spaces of what’s already begun.”

      11…The approximate number of art exhibitions Lerato has curated in her career. More

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      Could Bed Rotting Be The Answer To Your Self-Care Struggles?

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      New Age, TikTok wellness trends will have you believe that everything your parents taught you about waking up early daily and making your bed is as irrelevant and outdated as a feature phone. Take for instance the latest fad: bed rotting (the tag has garnered more than 2 billion views on TikTok)!

      Ever had those weekend episodes where your eyes are wide awake (yay, new day!), but your body tells you that it doesn’t feel like leaving the bed. So, you end up eating, reading, catching on the latest season of Love Is Blind, taking calls, mindlessly browsing the rabbit hole that is the ‘net – all from comfort of your bed! Yep, you may have done this a couple of times already but thanks to GenZers redefining life as we’ve always known it via TikTok, the trend now has a phrase. What you call being consciously unproductive your grandmother may call pure laziness – but however you see it, let’s delve deeper into what ‘bed rotting’ a.k.a. ‘much-deserved rest’ entails – and how to do it right!

      READ MORE: 5 Reasons This Mauritius Holiday Is A Wellness Dream

      What You Do In Bed Matters

      Granting yourself a lazy day every once in a while is purely warranted and is no new concept. However, equally important is knowing when bed rotting is totally healthy and when it’s feeding into your existing mental health issues. “If, for instance, you’re already struggling with basic day-to-day functions and you’d rather sleep than face certain emotions head-on, sleeping or spending more time in bed could signal depression and other mood disorders,” explains counselling psychologist Selloane Molalogi-Makau, adding that if you’re constantly feeling lethargic and feel safer spending time in bed than anywhere else, perhaps it’s time to seek professional help.

      If, however, there is nothing alarming about your behaviour and you function just as well when you’re not cooped up in bed, Molalogi-Makau, suggests setting time limits to how much time you’re going to spend ‘bed rotting’ could be a good idea. For instance, are you going to use that time catching up on to-do list items that you didn’t get to in the week or are you immersed in a book whose storyline literally transports you to another world?

      “Just be careful not to indulge in anything that could upset you, stress you out or make you feel like your bed is safer than being out there in the world,” warns Molalogi-Makau.

      A February 2023 study by the University of Bath found that “long-term inactivity significantly increases blood sugar levels even if you reduce your food intake to avoid gaining weight.” While another pilot study published in the National Library of Medicine found that there was a correlation between “sleeping or lying in bed all day and an increased risk of stress and depression, systemic inflammation and other psychological and cardiovascular ailments.”

      READ MORE: Banesa Tseki On How Yoga Gave Her A New Lease On Life

      Bed Rotting Done Right?

      Durban-based psychologist Lindani Mnyaka believes that there’s nothing sinister with bed rotting – provided it’s done once in a blue moon, as opposed to regularly. He does, however, add that nothing adds meaning to our lives such as kicking that duvet cover and being up and about creating a life of meaning. He also highlights the importance of constantly checking in one’s mental health state, so as to avoid sinking into a mood disorder without being aware of it.

      Changing your sleep schedule drastically ultimately does more harm than good for your mental and physical health, says Mnyaka. Per a 2019 Harvard Health report, “too much sleep can lead to too little energy.” Why is that? “Because it appears that any significant deviation from normal sleep patterns can upset the body’s rhythms and increase daytime fatigue,” according to the report. That said, Mnyaka agrees with Molalogi-Makau re: setting a limit to how much time time you’re going to spend in bed, as well as mapping out exactly what you’ll be doing.

      Among some of the activities he suggests are reading, watching a series, colouring in, sewing in buttons (time to own a sewing kit!) or a catch-up video call with a loved one. “It’s also very important to mention that just because a health trend has attracted billions of views doesn’t necessarily make it a healthy solution. People really need to start scrutinising

      READ MORE: 20 Fitness Apps To Kickstart Your Wellness Journey

      A Problematic Title, Maybe?

      Perhaps worth asking is – why is resting referred to as rotting, when the former is actually a good thing (and especially when self-care/resting comes in many forms? What’s self-care to one person may not work for another individual and such is the case with many subjective practises. TikTokers are probably rolling their eyes this very minute and thinking – what’s in a name, anyway? If there’s anything that we should take away from the bed rotting trend, it’s that aimless and unplanned rest – especially in a culture that praises busyness over relaxation – is completely healthy and okay. We’re allowed to take care of ourselves, the best way we know how. More

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      in entertainment and celebrities

      Who is Wendy Williams’ son, Kevin Hunter Jr?

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      FORMER US talk show host Wendy Williams has never been shy talking about her turbulent life with her fans.But her son Kevin, 23 has lived most of his life out of the spotlight of his famous parents Wendy and his father Kevin Hunter Sr.
      Wendy Williams’ son Kevin Hunter Jr has stayed out of the spotlight for most of his lifeCredit: Romain Maurice for The US Sun
      Who is Wendy Williams’ son, Kevin Hunter Jr?
      Kevin Hunter Jr. was born on August 18, 2000, and has stuck by his mother even through some of the hardest times.
      Wendy, 59, describes him as her “hard-won child” after she went through multiple miscarriages before finally triumphantly giving birth to Kevin.
      She said in 2015: “I fought tooth and nail to be a mother. I suffered several miscarriages including two at five months.”
      The 23-year-old attended a university in Miami, after leaving his family home in New Jersey before his parent’s bitter divorce.

      He has tried to keep out of the public eye as much as possible with him having just nine public photos on his Instagram account.
      Including a picture of him and his beloved mother, one with Diddy and others of himself enjoying his life.
      Kevin has recently spoken about his mother in documentaries and exclusively to The Sun in rare public showings.
      What has Kevin said about his mother’s health issues?
      Kevin Jr has been stern with his mother over the recent news of her dwindling health.
      Most read in Celebrity
      He said he “would not be in her life” unless she got help for her alcohol issues.
      The U.S. Sun exclusively reported on Thursday morning, Wendy was diagnosed with alcohol-related brain damage in 2019 during a rehab stint in Florida.
      Wendy Williams’ son Kevin Jr confirms she has ‘alcohol-induced dementia’ on Lifetime doc after erratic behavior exposed_Where is Wendy Williams_Lifetime
      An insider explained that there was a brain scan done as part of Wendy’s rehab stay in Delray Beach.
      “The doctor explained to them that Wendy was suffering from alcohol-related brain damage. They told her that her alcohol abuse had done permanent damage to the layers in her brain,” the insider said.
      The star then got diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia and aphasia in 2023 but it was kept hidden from the public until last week.
      A source close to the family told The Sun: “Wendy’s relationship with Kevin Jr has been strained. He gave her an ultimatum. He told her he won’t be in her life unless she fixes herself.” 
      The source added their relationship has been rocky over the past few years.  
      “Her son has been doling out the tough love, telling Wendy, ‘Get yourself help, mom,'” said the source.
      Speaking exclusively with The U.S. Sun in June 2023, Kevin Jr. said: “I know there are all sorts of things happening that I know in her right mind, she would never agree to.
      “As hard as it is seeing her being taken advantage of, I know that if I’m making sure she, as a person, is okay, that is the important thing.
      “Because eventually, she’s going to realize the craziness that’s been going on.”
      What is the documentary Where is Wendy Williams?
      Where is Wendy Williams? focuses on Wendy’s life after she left her successful talk show following the tragic health diagnosis.
      The show – which aired last weekend – features her son, Kevin Jr as he also helped to produce the docu-series.
      As per the official synopsis on Lifetime, the website reads: “The documentary provides a raw, honest and unfiltered reality of Wendy’s life after she was placed under financial guardianship, shedding light on the vulnerabilities that has turned Wendy into the Hot Topic herself.
      “Suffering mental and physical issues, Wendy’s delicate state of mind, erratic behavior and declining health were all captured by the cameras.”
      It aims to answer the questions a lot of her fans have had over the years including how she is doing now and who truly has her best interests at heart.
      Episodes of the docu-series can be streamed on Lifetime.
      When was Wendy Williams diagnosed with dementia and aphasia?
      Wendy was diagnosed with the two tragic health issues last year, say her care team.
      However they were kept hidden from the public until Thursday, 22, February, when her carers released a statement.
      They said: “The conditions have already presented significant hurdles in Wendy’s life.
      “Wendy is still able to do many things for herself. Most importantly she maintains her trademark sense of humor and is receiving the care she requires to make sure she is protected and that her needs are addressed.”
      The team say they released the shock news “to correct inaccurate and hurtful rumors about her health”.
      Frontotemporal dementia is a tragic illness that is currently incurable.
      The brain disorder affects language and communication skills and gets worse overtime as it can’t be treated with any traditional methods to slow down its progession.
      Aphasia is a nervous system syndrome that also affects the body’s ability to communicate.
      Often people suffering from the horrible issue struggle to speak about their emotions and in some cases lose the ability to speak and write.
      READ MORE SUN STORIES
      Hollywood icon Bruce Willis had to give up his career for the same medical issues.
      Williams has dealt with a number of ongoing health issues in her life, including Graves’ disease, lymphedema and alcohol abuse. More

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      in entertainment and celebrities

      Beach Boys’ Brian Wilson, 81, ‘suffering from dementia’ as team files for conservatorship weeks after wife’s death

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      BEACH Boys legend Brian Wilson is reportedly suffering from dementia.The heartbreaking news was revealed in a court filing on Thursday, which said the music icon, 81, was suffering from a “major neurocognitive disorder (such as dementia).”
      Brian Wilson has reportedly been diagnosed with dementia and his team has filed for a conservatorship
      This news comes just weeks after the music legend’s wife, Melinda Ledbetter, died at the age of 77Credit: Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP, File
      Wilson was a co-founder of the band, Beach BoysCredit: Getty
      Wilson’s family later confirmed that two family representatives – LeeAnn Hard and Jean Sievers – will serve as his co-conservators.
      They said the decision was prompted by the death of Wilson’s wife, Melinda Ledbetter, who died at the age of 77 last month.
      “Following the passing of Brian’s beloved wife Melinda, after careful consideration and consultation among Brian, his seven children, Gloria Ramos and Brian’s doctors (and consistent with family processes put in place by Brian and Melinda), we are confirming that longtime Wilson family representatives LeeAnn Hard and Jean Sievers will serve as Brian’s co-conservators of the person,” they said in a statement on Instagram.
      “This decision was made to ensure that there will be no extreme changes to the household and Brian and the children living at home will be taken care of and remain in the home where they are cared for by Gloria Ramos and the wonderful team at the house who have been in place for many years helping take care of the family.

      “Brian will be able to enjoy all of his family and friends and continue to work on current projects as well as participate in any activities he chooses.”
      According to court documents obtained by The Blast on Thursday, Wilson is being treated for the disorder.
      The agent for his touring company and long time publicist was also reportedly listed on the filing.
      Wilson’s diagnosis comes as he prepares to launch new music next year.
      Most read in Celebrity
      In 1970, he began working on a country album with former Beach Boys manager Fred Vail who was on lead vocals.
      Jack Sonni dead at 68- Dire Straits’ ‘other guitarist’ dies as band pays tribute
      The project was shelved but the two musicians have since returned to it.
      It’s release is planned for 2025 and Wilson will be featured on guest vocals, according to Rolling Stone.
      When his wife passed in January, the star shared an emotional message about his wife of 28 years with his X, formerly know as Twitter followers.
      “My heart is broken. Melinda, my beloved wife of 28 years, passed away this morning,” he began.
      “Our five children and I are just in tears. We are lost. Melinda was more than my wife. She was my savior. She gave me the emotional security I needed to have a career.
      “She encouraged me to make the music that was closest to my heart. She was my anchor. She was everything for us. She was a force of nature and one of the strongest women you could come by.
      “She was not only a model, our father’s savior, and a mother, she was a woman empowered by her spirit with a mission to better everyone she touched. We will miss her but cherish everything she has taught us.”
      “How to take care of the person next to you without expecting anything in return, how to find beauty in the darkest of places, and how to live life as your truest self with honesty and pride. We love you mom. Give Grandma Rose and Pa our love,” he concluded his thread.
      What are the signs and symptoms of dementia? Different types of dementia affect people in various ways, and not everyone will experience the same signs.
      However early signs before a diagnosis can include:

      Memory loss
      Difficulty concentrating
      Finding it hard to carry out familiar daily tasks, such as getting confused over the correct change when shopping
      Struggling to follow a conversation or find the right word
      Being confused about time and place
      Mood changes

      Source: The NHS More

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      in health and weelbeing

      10 Wellness Quotes By Miss SA Natasha Joubert (That We Absolutely Loved!)

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      Ever met those people who are a freakin’ big deal but don’t treat themselves as such? This was the case when current Miss SA Natasha Joubert invited me to her home for the Jan/Feb 2024 cover interview. After insisting on brewing me the perfect cup of coffee, the 26-year-old opened up about everything in her new, busy world. From the gruelling Miss SA preps, dealing with negative opinions and managing a tight schedule to not being too anal about diets and swopping intense workouts for low-impact exercises, she left no stone unturned.

      After almost three hours of Natasha laying her soul bare, one important lesson that I took away was that: Our breakthrough or fresh start is always one last push, and sound decision, away. Ahead, some wisdom that we gleaned from one of the most relatable Miss SA’s in the history of the pageant:

      READ MORE: Do This Cardio Workout At Home To Burn Cals And Boost Your Mood

      1. Embracing New Beginnings And Forging Ahead

      “I’ve learnt not to become too complacent. I usually know that it’s time for change when I get to a point where a lot of things no longer excite me or when it feels like I’m settling. Then I know that it’s time to take a risk or introduce changes to my daily routine. Secondly, don’t only try one or twice — if you have to do something four times, then go for it! These days, failure is more common than success. If you study the lives of most successful people, they definitely didn’t get it right the first time around. For instance, my mother studied law when she was 18 and quit. She just recently got her law degree now at 50. The lesson? If there’s something that you genuinely want for yourself, go for it. Even if it means taking a break.”

      2. Fight For Your Dreams

      “In life you’re going to have to fight for the things you need and want. There are very few young people who have parents who can finance their future goals. And I was one of those kids. Saving my pageant winnings and working odd jobs as teenager and post-matric made me financially independent from a young age. At times, I’d have to borrow my mother money because she just couldn’t do it as a single mother. Granted, I grew up quicker than I would’ve liked to. Now that I’m running my own household, I fully understand how my mom struggled on her own after my dad’s passing. My wish is for young people to understand that having parents who fund their education and goals is a privilege that they should never take for granted – not a must!”

      READ MORE: 6 Times You’re Totally Sabotaging Yourself At Work — Without Realising It

      3. Humble Beginnings

      “When I entered Miss SA in 2020, the judges always advised us to bring our real selves to the competition if we really wanted to win. And I remember thinking: “What does that even mean?” But working with a therapist to heal my childhood traumas has been revolutionary. I wasn’t self-assured the first time around. The thought alone of admitting to being independent at a young age so that I could relieve my mother of any financial pressure, or the debilitating fact that we lost our home after my dad’s passing, would’ve embarrassed me or brought me to tears! But I now tell that story with pride in hopes that it will inspire many other young people to fight for their dreams like I did!” 

      4. What I Know For Sure

      “Now I know that life is about balance. It’s all about knowing when to work hard and when to take time off or when to take things seriously and when not to overthink. I don’t take my Miss SA title too seriously. I dance when I’m at events, I’m definitely not stiff and stuck up. At the end of the day, everyone is literally just like you – they’re human. I want to be known as a Miss SA who gets the job done, but who’s also relatable and showcases the downfalls and the struggles. I don’t mind being an open book because it allows me to go through life freely and without feeling the need to filter certain things out.”

      5. Navigating Negativity

      “I’ve never worked as hard as I did for Miss SA – little knowing that the hard work gets worse after being crowned [chuckles]. There will always be those people who feel that you didn’t deserve an opportunity, but no one can ever tell you that you’re not fit for anything if you give it your all.”

      6. Living With ADHD And Anxiety

      “I was diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety in my adulthood. It could’ve been earlier but I refused to go to therapy when my dad passed away in my teens. I didn’t want to be on medication chronically so we started on a really low dosage for a few months then eased it out. Eventually, I had to find coping mechanisms that would help me control the symptoms from the inside and exit that space of constantly wanting to be busy – and that’s where life coaching came in. I will always go to therapy for as long as circumstances allow me to.”

      READ MORE: 18 New Running Shoes To Help You Run Faster And Farther In 2024

      7. Stop To Smell The Roses

      “I’m in my 20s now and understand that I haven’t reached the pinnacle of who I want to be. I don’t want to be so consumed by life’s responsibilities, or rush through it, without ever stopping to reflect on the next step and carefully mapping out who I want to be. I want to constantly challenge myself to grow after ticking off a goal and to do everything with intention.”

      8. After A Long Day…

      “My favourite form of unwinding is lying on the couch and enjoying a good series, or being with family and friends, walking my dogs, lying in the sun, swimming at my grandparents’ house or sitting in front of the fire with my boyfriend in winter. It’s really the small things that bring me the greatest joy.”

      9. Don’t Demand Too Much Of Your Body

      “Gym for me was always about releasing endorphins. I really can’t promise myself that I’ll commit to exercising as regularly and as intensely as I did before and during the Miss SA preps – and that’s also okay. My work schedule simply doesn’t allow me to. The smaller things like walking my dogs and hiking with my family will have to do for now.”

      10. Local Is Definitely Lekker

      “I love travelling locally — the Western Cape Winelands and the Kruger National Park being firm favourites. I get PTSD from travelling internationally. My bag is always overweight, I always worry about the possibility of missing the flight and then I’m constipated for four days after returning. When I land back in SA, I always think to myself, ‘I don’t know why I paid that much just to want to be back home [chuckles].’

      Catch our detailed interview with Miss South Africa Natasha Joubert in the January/February 2024 issue of Women’s Health on shelves now, or grab yourself a digital copy. More