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    13 exciting activities to do in the UAE this Eid Al-Adha

    Your ultimate guide to this weekend in the UAE –June 23 to July 2, 2023.
    Savour Mexican cuisine

    For authentic Mexican flavours, the newly opened Puerto 99 in DIFC boasts an incredibly diverse menu offering. Blending reminiscence with forward-thinking, Puerto 99 DIFC combines elements of Mexican tradition with futuristic installations that tell their unique story—an exotically playful space that is both enchanting and sophisticated, borrowing inspiration from the depths of the Mexican jungles. In addition to their elevated dining element, Puerto 99 DIFC offers an exciting nightlife experience with its top-notch sound and light systems, attracting the late night DIFC dwellers looking for a gateway to the most exclusive fiesta in Dubai. Located in Waldorf Astoria DIFC, It’s open from Sunday to Wednesday 1pm to 1am and Thursday to Saturday 1pm to 5am.
    For more information visit puerto99.ae
    Hone your inner artist

    Guests are invited to step into the realm of inspiration at One&Only The Palm curated by the talented local artist, Rabab Tantawy, as they participate in a captivating workshop at the stunning 101 Privé, One&Only The Palm’s exclusive overwater event space with ArtKorero. Perfect for families and friends, attendees can immerse themselves in the creative process and unlock their artistic potential. Known for its renowned traditional Arabian hospitality, the resort warmly welcomes visitors within the cultural hub of the Middle East. The workshop is taking place on Friday, June 30, 2023 and is priced at Dhs400 per person and includes all materials, refreshments and bites at 101 Privé.
    For more information visit oneandonlyresorts.com
    Brunch it up

    The award-winning fine-dining restaurant Demon Duck welcomes guests to savour the finest Asian cuisine. Indulge in the exquisite Pan-Asian cuisine crafted by the renowned celebrity chef Alvin Leung. Filled with a vibrant atmosphere accompanied by eccentric and whimsically theatrical décor, savour the flavours of the menu’s exceptional classics along with entertainment by the one and only DJ Aneesh Gera. It takes place every Saturday at Caesars Palace Dubai from 1pm to 4pm
    Unwind at this spa-cation

    Indulge in an exclusive idyllic getaway at One&Only The Palm and relax at the property’s private air-conditioned poolside cabana, a few steps away from the stunning grand pool. Curated for couples or any two guests, the Guerlain Spa offers a luxurious 60-minute treatment, along with a Pool & Beach day pass accompanied by a 3-course lunch menu at ZEST. The package is available until September 30, 2023 and is priced at Dhs2,800 on the weekends including public holidays and Dhs2,300 on weekdays from Monday to Friday excluding public holidays.
    For more information visit oneandonlyresorts.com
    Indulge in an elegant Afternoon tea

    Situated in the elegant lobby of Mandarin Oriental with an adjoining terrace, there’s no shortage of traditional treats and decadent delights when it comes to the Summer Afternoon Tea menu at Noor Lounge: a selection of savoury and sweet bites is complemented by a variety of refreshing mocktails, iced teas and coffees. The Summer Afternoon Tea is priced at Dhs320 for two or Dhs165 for a single guest, available daily from 2pm to 6pm from July 1 to August 31, 2023.
    For more information visit mandarinoriental.com
    Enjoy a laid-back brunch

    Spanning over four hours, the generous Maison Mathis brunch takes place to the backdrop of incredible live music provided by the soulful Charlene Duo who will take the celebrations into the after party, which kicks off from 5pm, along with an epic buy one get one free deal available on selected drinks. The main sharing style concept is available for re-order again and again, starting with Maison Mathis’ legendary oysters. Freshly shucked, the oysters are the perfect way to tantalize tastebuds and begin the meal with a bang. The dishes include Wagyu Tartare, Lamb Chops and more.  The soft drinks package is priced at Dhs229 per person, with the house beverage package priced at Dhs329 from 1pm to 5pm, making it one of the longest brunch at Voco Dubai The Palm.
    For more information visit maisonmathisvocopalm.com
    Savour a delectable burger at home

    From glorious patties to juicy fries, there’s an array of delicious burger joints in Dubai that we’ll surely be savouring from. Whether you need a bit of mid-week indulgence or are simply looking to treat yourself after a long week, a burger is the best way to enjoy an indulgent meal, making those calories worth-it. From gourmet-style burgers at La Maison Ani to innovative palate tingling katsu burgers at High Joint, there’s an arrat of endless options available. With no shortage of brilliant buns across the emirate,Emirates Woman  is here to present our tried-and-tasted hotspots to visit ASAP.
    Rejuvenate at a blissful staycation

    For an undisturbed beach getaway, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa promises a staycation unlike any other. Guests can savour in the dishes from the renowned Café Nikki featuring dishes made from the freshest ingredients including highlights such as, Yakitori, and much more. For some secluded tranquility, guests can visit the idyllic Nikki Spa for a complete relaxation with a Hammam, sauna, steam, ice fountain and a mixed vitality pool both indoor and outdoor with an exclusive offer for UAE residents at 30 percent off the best available rate for a two night stay, complimentary breakfast at Café Nikki, 30 percent off treatments at the spa, use of Tone Gym and thermal zones and complimentary entrance to the beach club during the stay. To redeem the offer, visitors need to present a valid UAE ID and mention the code ‘STAYCATION’.
    For more information visit dubai.nikkibeach.com
    Make a splash at the pool

    Fridays are all about making a splash at Terra Solis. Guests can dive into the weekend with the irresistible pool access packages at AED 200 per person, accompanied by a 50 percent redeemable voucher for food and beverages. Visitors are in for the electrifying Ibiza Friday experience, featuring a live performance by the dynamic Quilliam, complemented by the soulful Mambo Brothers’ Ibiza sunset mix, meticulously curated by One World Radio. Tantalise taste buds with the delectable specials of the day for just Dhs255, including refreshing Sangria and mouthwatering Patatas Bravas, all while basking in the sun-kissed paradise of a poolside oasis.
    For more information visit terrasolisdubai.com
    Experience a dreamy escape

    Searching for a dreamy adult-only escape right above the sea? SAL is the place to be! Soak up the sun in style as you laze by the infinity pool, taking in breath-taking views of the pristine coastline. And if that’s not enough, unwind at SAL’s chic restaurant and indulge in its delectable cuisine while sipping on delicious cocktails. The package is available on weekdays from Monday to Thursday for Dhs500 per person inclusive of Dhs250 redeemable on F&B, weekends from Friday to Sunday for Dhs700 per person inclusive of Dhs350 redeemable on F&B.
    For more information visit jumeirah.com
    Opt for a summer glow up

    Throughout the season, Raffles the Palm Dubai offers an extraordinary experience with the Summer Glow Up package that enlivens moments of reflection by immersing themselves in a 60-minute Balinese massage, followed by a day at leisure by the pool or on the picturesque, white-sanded shore of Raffles the Palm Dubai. For Dhs550 per person, guests can experience all this and redeem AED 150 F&B credit by the pool or at Piatti by the Beach. Anyone wishing to treat themselves to the epitome of wellness and serenity can do so with the exquisite ‘The Joy of Eid Al Adha’ package, exclusively available from June 28 until July 2, 2023. Crafted to make this special occasion truly memorable, spa enthusiasts can embark on a blissful journey with a luxurious 120-minute Relaxing North African Hammam treatment meticulously designed to soothe body and mind. As an added delight, each guest will also receive a complimentary Cinq Mondes Spa gift, ensuring a truly immersive and rewarding experience. Priced at Dhs995 per person, this package promises an unrivalled escape and an opportunity to celebrate Eid Al Adha in pure serenity and comfort.
    For more information visit rafflesthepalm.com
    Work it out

    Looking to revamp your fitness routine? Then Pilates might be the perfect option for you. With celebrities such as Hailey Bieber, Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner, elevating their fitness routine with reformer Pilates, it’s time for you to take up a session or two. Designed to improve physical strength and coordination, form long-term habits and ensure greater core strength, these workouts allow to strengthen your muscles and feel mentally fit. Pilates can help create long, lean, and defined muscles, while also helping to reduce stress, creating awareness in the body, and improving mental clarity. So, if you’re looking to begin on your Pilates fitness journey, we’re curated a guide of all the must-visit studios in Dubai. From Blended Wellness to Posture., there are a myriad of professional studios list in our Emirates Woman guide in the emirate with expert trainers.
    Rejuvenate at this short-haul escape

    Escape to the lap of luxury at The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah, where breathtaking natural landscapes, stunning beaches, and world-class amenities come together to offer an unparalleled luxury getaway. Situated just 25 minutes away from the city center, this stunning oasis blends contemporary architecture with natural colors, providing the perfect backdrop for panoramic ocean views and long white sand beaches, leaving guests feeling both amazed and at peace. For the adventure enthusiast, the resort has a range of outdoor activities, including kayaking and paddle-boarding through mangroves, cycling along scenic trails, and golfing at an exclusive course. For a more laid-back experience, the resort offers yoga, rejuvenating spa sessions, and three exclusive lounges, including Vinesse Bar, Aquario Bar, and The Library. Guests can also unwind by the beach, basking in the warm sunshine while listening to the soothing sound of waves.
    For more information visit oberoihotels.com
    Watch the full Emirates Man interview with Jay Shetty
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    For the cover we are honoured to have former monk and author, Jay Shetty who we discuss manifestation, meditation, and the power of gratitude with. Jay was also kind enough to share his time with us on his recent trip to Dubai, you can watch the full interview on YouTube where he shares his thoughts on habits, discipline, and happiness – a conversation that is as inspiring as it is insightful. Watch the full interview on YouTube.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @zozoewitherspoon More

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    The best Pilates studios to elevate your fitness routine in Dubai

    Looking to revamp your fitness routine? Then Pilates might be the perfect option for you.
    With celebrities such as Hailey Bieber, Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner, elevating their fitness routine with reformer Pilates, it’s time for you to take up a session or two.
    This once forgotten exercise trend has made a comeback since it was first invented by Joseph Pilates a century ago. With social media been the force behind its resurgence, this popular workout channels the mind-body connection to achieve precise, controlled movements that promote alignment, balance and strength.
    Designed to improve physical strength and coordination, form long-term habits and ensure greater core strength, these workouts allow to strengthen your muscles and feel mentally fit. Pilates can help create long, lean, and defined muscles, while also helping to reduce stress, creating awareness in the body, and improving mental clarity.
    So, if you’re looking to begin on your Pilates fitness journey, we’re curated a guide of all the must-visit studios in Dubai.
    POSTURE.

    This exclusive boutique Pilates studio promises a mind, body and soul experience with Reformer Pilates, Cadillac, mat pilates and more for all levels. Each class is designed to tone, lengthen and strengthen the importance a strong core and great posture. Led by a team of qualifies instructors, the studio boasts a calm, relaxing and inclusive environment. The private sessions are priced at Dhs450 and are valid for one week from the date of purchase and the membership packages are priced at Dhs1,300 for 10 classes valid as a monthly recurring package. Located in Golden Mile, Building 4, Palm Jumeirah, it’s open daily from Monday to Thursday, 6:30am to 8:30pm, Friday 6:30am to 2:30pm, Saturday 8am to 12pm and Sunday 9am to 12pm.
    For more information visit thisisposture.com
    Blended Wellness

    This multi-wellness destination offers a sanctuary of wellbeing with its state-of-the-art Pilates studio at Blended Fit. With well-trained instructors and new equipment, guests can experience jaw dropping views of Dubai’s skyline, making this an incredible space to workout and also enjoy a healthy/smoothie and juice after the class. The Reformer Pilates packages are priced at Dhs600 for a five-pack class. Located at The Dukes, The Palm Jumeirah, it’s open from Monday to Sunday, from 6am to 10pm.
    For more information visit blendedwellness.com
    Sol Pilates Studio

    This equipped Pilates studio offers everything from Reformer and pre-natal expertise to providing its guests with a vibrant haven to learn and grow. Curated for ladies only, the packages are available upon request. Sol Pilates is a full equipped Pilates studio in the heart of Mirdif 35, street 60C and is open from Sunday to Wednesday 10am to 10pm and Thursday to Saturday 10am to 12pm.
    For more information visit solpilates.ae
    Reform Athletica

    This boutique fitness studio caps classes at 10 to 16 people and has four signature classes: The Reform Method, TRX Athletica, RA Yoga and Kettle Form. All compliment one another and each class aims to give every person a workout that will make an impact. Inspired by the global fitness scene, the classes are 45-50 minutes long and do not distinguish between skill levels; beginners and advanced participants are all equally welcome and no prior experience is required for any class. As a cross between an intimate fitness studio and an art gallery, the space truly feels like home. A single class is priced at Dhs133 and the five class package is priced at Dhs643. Located in Villa 40, 165a, Jumeira 1, it’s open at various times during the week.
    For more information visit reformathletica.com
    The Hundred Wellness Centre

    With a team of certified instructors who use a combination of mat work reformer Pilates and other equipment, customers can achieve their fitness goals in no time. The Pilates method is at the core with intimate mat classes, equipment classes, the Cadillac (Trapeze table), poles, reformers and Pilates chairs. With both ladies-only and private one-to-one sessions, instructors ensure the core which is your powerhouse can be used to move the body weight with the spring-loaded carriage. A single session, group Pilates class is priced at Dhs140, and a package of 5 sessions valid for 2 months is priced at Dhs650, additionally a private session is priced at Dhs400. Located in Villa21, 53b Street, Jumeirah 1, it’s open from 7am to 8pm.
    For more information visit thehundred.ae
    Yoga La Vie

    Based on the Joseph Pilates method, customers can strengthen their core, increase their flexibility with specialised instructors and feel at ease with each class. Located on Golden Mile, Palm Jumeirah, the studio also offers barre and yoga classes for both men and women, starting from Dhs126, Dhs1,134 for ten classes package, and your first trial class is free.
    For more information visit yogalaviedubai.com
    Studio14

    This boutique fitness studio offers 50-minute Pilates Reformer sessions available for people of all ages and fitness levels. As a holistic fitness get-away, the intimates space combines traditional contemporary exercises and focuses on building a strong core, ensuring each customer feels strong, stretched and connected. This eco-friendly concept has Pilates reformer classes with level 1 and level 2, with 1 group class priced at Dhs140, and the five class package priced at Dhs400, while the private reformer Pilates is priced at Dhs420.
    For more information visit studio.ae
    Yasmin Karachiwala’s Pilates & Dance Studio (The PAD)

    With a variety of Pilates classes offered, everyone can choose from The Reformer, Wundu, The Cadillac, The Bodhi, Aerial Pilates, The MOTR, Pilates for back pain, for cricketers and. more.Pilates can also be done on the mat, with or without small equipments. The package prices are available upon request. Situated in 906, Onyx Tower 1,906, The Greens, the studio is open from Monday to Thursday 7am to 9pm, Friday 7am to 8pm, Saturday 9am to 7pm and Sunday 9am to 6pm.
    For more information visit thepadfitness.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram & Feature Image: Instagram @thisisposture More

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    How this Dubai-based Pilates studio promises the ultimate wellness experience

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Elle Sawyer, founder of Dubai- based Pilates studio, POSTURE. shares what it takes to launch her own wellness space.

    Talk us through your career.
    I started interning as a Fashion Assistant at Hearst Group [formerly, The National Magazine Company in London] whilst studying. It was there that I found my love for fashion and editorial and wanted to be part of the industry. I later graduated in English Literature and moved to Dubai at age 22, where I began work as a production manager. Working there opened up doors into editorial, advertising and many other production divisions in the region, allowing me to later niche my experience specifically when going freelance and producing regularly for the likes of NET-A-PORTER, luxury magazines and more both regionally and internationally. I am very grateful for the experience I gained in the region, and to the place, I call home, Dubai. Though I loved my career as a creative producer, I always felt something was missing. The once-loved 14-hour shoot days became mundane and the fast-paced zero work/life balance lifestyle I’d created for myself, in the end, made me feel unhealthy. Later that summer, as a result, I suffered an ectopic pregnancy and decided that it was time for a change. As a way to unwind from work, I had started Reformer Pilates and I loved what it did for my mind and body. During the lockdown, I started taking Pilates more seriously and decided to train as a teacher. While training in Pilates, I naturally started teaching it to other people – wanting others around me to believe and love it as much as I did. I became so passionate about it that it clicked that this was my calling. Other than my actual Pilates certification, I have always been a very spiritual person and enjoy being around like-minded people that inspire and teach me things I do not know, especially in mind-body practices. Life is always about learning and I take great pleasure in learning new realms of wellness in physical and mental forms. Spirituality, meditation, law of attraction, crystal healing, acupuncture [& TCM] are all areas of well-being that I actively practice in my everyday life.

    What inspired you to launch POSTURE.?
    Having worked with fashion magazines and brands throughout my career, I wanted to create a brand that married the two worlds together. My love of Pilates and fashion fuelled my vision to create POSTURE. as being a positive and inviting space that was modern, minimalistic with healing. I knew I wanted more than to become a freelance instructor as I’d spent my whole adult career in Dubai predominantly freelancing, so it felt like the right time to found my own company. I had been to many studios in London and New York that just had something about them, and without fail always made me feel so excited to visit – I wanted that for myself and I wanted that for Dubai. I took everything I had learned in my life so far, put pen to paper, and began making my dream a reality. I think ultimately, it’s not just a workout that people want to experience, it’s a carefully designed space for people to belong, and for people who share the same likes and passions; to feel seen as part of a community. At POSTURE. we hand-selected all of our equipment and décor from all around the globe to ensure we were different and catered to the luxury clientele. We were selective with the instructors we hired; the schools they had qualified from, their energy, their overall vibe and their aesthetic. We partnered only with brands that we felt on-brand with – ethically and aesthetically. We curated our music/ playlists to suit our routines to give a little extra flare to our classes (increasing their stamina both physically & mentally, as well as including cognitive learning by moving to the tempo of the beat making Pilates a fun and fresh workout) and we have designed and created POSTURE. Merchandise to further strengthen our brand. The space included practicing a slice of wellness in our everyday schedule – from our breathwork at the start of every class, to our wellness club workshops in sound healing & Yin meditation, to ending on our signature affirmation cards to finish our practice together in every session. It ALL matters – every little detail as that’s what makes us who we are as a brand.
    What lies at the core of POSTURE. and at the DNA of the brand?
    POSTURE. is essentially a community for like-minded people to escape their realities and connect with their inner selves. Whether their workouts are more active and fast-paced, or relaxing and meditative, POSTURE. is for people who appreciate being in an environment surrounded by luxuries. POSTURE. is all about getting to know your body and its boundaries and cultivating that all-important Qi. Our studio’s method focuses not just on the strength & mobility of the Pilates repertoire but building your form and core too. I talk about Cultivating the Qi a lot in my sessions, as it is something in the last year I had researched and explored when physically, I needed it.
    What are the key benefits of Reformer Pilates?
    The Reformer accommodates a full range motion, using your body weight against the resistance of the springs and carriage; making this a unique full-body workout providing a strong focus on core strength + muscle engagement which improves performance, weight loss, balance, back pain plus our favourite POSTURE. At POSTURE. we split our classes into two levels to cater for all which includes the reformer flow for beginners and an intermediate level. It’s best for those new to the reformer and those that require an introduction to the principles of Pilates at a slower and controlled pace. It’s designed to tone, lengthen and strengthen and reinforce the importance of a strong core and great posture. The next level is reformer tempo for an intermediate and advanced level. It’s best for those familiar with the reformer plus the principles of Pilates, who can keep up with the pace and be ready to work up an up- beat sweat to the beat of our curated playlists. The benefits range from increasing both physical and mental stamina and raising everyone’s Pilates techniques to the next level.

    As a next-generation Pilates instructor, what are the basic skills you want to instill in your students?
    All of our instructors have their own groove and style to enhance the collective passion for wellness, fitness, and spiritualism. We want to bring a fresh holistic energy to Mat & Reformer Pilates – introducing the core values of Joseph Pilates’ repertoire on the Mat, and one that compliments their practice with the Reformer too. Our studio focuses not just on the flow of the Pilates repertoire, but building your form and core; and one that honours your practice with your daily well-being too. Our routines are designed to activate that all-important parasympathetic phase of relaxation that we all need more of, certainly living up to POSTURE.’s ethos of a mind-body-soul experience, that focuses on getting to know your body and its boundaries and cultivating that all-important Qi.
    What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?
    Passion and drive are everything over base-level talent. There are millions of people in the world doing the same job, but what makes you different is your unique passion and drive in what you do. Ultimately, people buy into you as a person, over your qualifications. What makes you different is that you need to keep asking yourself to drive yourself to do better and be better.

    This is The Reset Issue – how can we reset from the inside out?
    “Not only is health a normal condition, but it is our duty to not only to attain it but to maintain it.” – Joseph Pilates.
    A famous quote from the man himself. I believe everyone should take time to learn and become aware of themselves and their daily habits. Being mindful and practicing wellness in your everyday life will really impact the way you live. I work with many clients that suffer with poor posture – most suffering from ‘popular’ back issues like Sciatica/Kyphosis and wonder why. If we carry ourselves in a way of poor posture, it can distort how our body should be feeling. We start to hunch our shoulders, look down at the floor more, feeling negative – instead of opening up our shoulders, walk- ing proud and have a positive look on life. If we constrict our body due to bad posture, it not only affects the way we walk, our nervous system, digestive system and even joints are affected causing them to shift their position and change. Over time, this shows in your everyday life in how you carry yourself. @thisisposture_
    January’s – The Reset Issue – Download Now 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    Strengthen your core in the comfort of your home with this online platform

    Lifestyle

    by Amy Sessions
    3 hours ago

    Bryony Deery, Founder of The Platform, takes us through her tips to get beach ready.
    What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like at home and how does this differ on vacation?
    During the week I wake up between 5:45-6am, drink a big glass of water and then head downstairs to make my collagen matcha using Enso matcha and Dose & Co Dairy Free collagen. I then take it back up to the bed, I love this me-time. I like to begin my day with a meditation and afterwards, I grab my journal and write my to-do list, my intentions for that day and any thoughts/feelings that come up during my meditation practice. There is something so powerful about early mornings and it’s crucial for me to have an hour to myself before I start my first client at 7am. My routine fits in around the type of vacation I’m on depending on the time difference and whether I have later evenings etc but generally the mornings start in the same way with my mind and body routine followed by a later breakfast. I want to feel my best on holiday and daily movement and mindfulness helps me achieve this. I am less strict on holiday but I like to alternate Pilates with morning walks.
    Can you take us through your top de-bloating tips to be beach ready?
    For me being beach ready is more of a mindset and feeling confident and comfortable in my own skin. Naturally, if I am doing Pilates and meditating my cortisol levels are reduced and therefore I have less inflammation in my body and tend to feel less bloated. On the days thatI am suffering from bloating I have a video on my app that are my go-tos for debloating, perfect for that time of the month andit really does work! Focusing on my gut health is a daily non-negotiable but drinking lots of water, cutting out excess salt, dry brushing and lymphatic drainage massage are all pre-holiday essentials for me.
    Do you exercise each day on vacation and if so when do you carve out time for this?
    I naturally like to always stay active whether I am on holiday or at home. I like to do Pilates first thing before breakfast and then tend to do a walk after breakfast and sometimes again at the end of the day. Walking along a beach with a podcast is pure heaven and such a magical way to start the day and boost your mood. We can all find reasons not to find the time but I am disciplined on this and always make sure I invest in myself and my mental and physical health and schedule the time in each day. I love how Pilates is so easy to do anywhere whether you’re in your hotel room, on the beach, or on a balcony.
    How long have you been using body gua sha and skin brushing and what effect have you seen from implementing these practices?
    I have been body brushing for years! I could talk about the benefits all day long. It helped me with water retention, bloating, detoxing, and skin elasticity and it makes me feel alive before a cold shower in the morning. I love to use my body gua sha to aid in lymphatic drainage and release any buildup there. I do this twice a day and it has become a staple in my bathroom routine.
    How often should we be doing this?
    Once a day minimum. Every day, no excuses!

    What are your go-to products for sun protection as in face, body and hair?

    I never put my face in the sun, I wear a huge hat, sunglasses and sit with my face and chest in the shade. I want to avoid sun damage as much as I can. I use Eurcerin oil control SPF 50 on my face and I like Institut esthederm or ultrasun for my body. Pre-holiday I swear by Amanda Harrington fake tan for the body and tan luxe for the face. Buy both now and thank me later.
    Are you a light packer or a heavy packer and are there any go-to pieces you always pack for vacation?
    I like to pack by outfits so I know I have the right looks for each occasion but then will also add a few extra pieces that I know will go with everything. I always pack a blazer for colder evenings, a comfy but cool pair of trainers that can double up for travel and workouts, oversized shirts that I can wear on the beach over bikinis, Hermes Oran sandals for day-to-night looks and I’m a real fan of maxi skirts as I find them so elegant and flattering with a crop top or bodysuit. My real secret must-have for packing is Muji packing cubes, they are incredibly functional and make unpacking the dream. I am militant when it comes to packing and travel.
    Travelling can disrupt our routines. How do you ensure you maintain your habits?
    By reminding myself that routine is what makes me feel good and asking myself how I want to feel today. I know that my daily rituals are what makes me feel grounded, at peace and healthy. The book Atomic Habits is one of my favourites and a book I recommend to all of my friends. I really believe that staying consistent with small daily habits amount to a big shift in your day and week!
    You recently launched Pilates By Bryony The App – do you find there is a huge demand to work out remotely and what made you take the leap?
    Without a doubt. Since COVID-19 there was a big shift in our attitude towards home workouts. People saw that they could achieve results at home, save time and money on gym membership fees, and fit the sessions in around their home life. There has absolutely been an increase in online fitness, I started with 15 people joining my zoom classes and I am now able to connect with people all over the world via the app. I feel so happy and fulfilled knowing that I can reach so many people and help in some way with their mental and physical well-being.

    “Drinking lots of water, cutting out excess salt, dry brushing and lymphatic drainage massages are pre-holiday essentials for me.” 

    What have been the biggest challenges to date and how did you overcome them?
    Having a scalable platform for lots of users in- evitably has its challenges but I am a firm believer that there is always a way to figure it out and lessons to learn along the way. I am lucky to have a team of incredibly talented people that have been invaluable to me, especially in the last few months. My meditation practice has changed me as a person and in these stressful times I manage to stay relatively calm and positive and tell myself that there is always a solution. Without meditation, I wouldn’t be able to deal with the stressful situations that building a business can bring so I am very grateful for that.
    How have you found social media in terms of supporting brand growth?
    It’s almost impossible to build a brand in today’s climate without having a social media presence and it is a key driver for growth in the online fitness industry. It is also a brilliant business tool and allows you to access insights into your audience and speak directly to the consumer. It still blows my mind how quickly a business can grow based on one key share of a story.
    How do you approach scaling without compromising on quality?
    Scaling a subscription business should never impact quality. I strive to improve the quality as I scale and really listen to my audience. It was harder to deliver quality before launching The Platform because the growth was quicker than I had expected, so I had to figure it out and find a way to grow and develop with demand. I am always read- ing books on startups and businesses as I love to learn.
    This is The Summer Escape Issue – where would you like to escape to this summer?
    With the nature of the business, it can be difficult to completely switch off and escape but I am hoping to really cut down in August and go to Mykonos. I’d like to spend more time in the sur- rounding Greek islands as they look so beautiful and undiscovered. Last summer I worked non stop so the aim of this summer is to work smarter and have more balance when I am away.
    July/August’s – The Summer Escape 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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    Pilates Newbie? Learn This Pilates Lingo To Help You Keep Up In Your First Class

    Pilates is hugely underrated as a form of exercise. The movements are so tiny and the weights so light… how can it possibly be effective, right? Well here’s the thing: You don’t always need to be lifting huge chunks of metal with a full range of motion to build strength and muscle tone. And with the ‘That Girl‘ aesthetic going viral on TikTok, Pilates classes are finally having their time in the spotlight. If you’re new to Pilates, though, you may find you struggle to keep up because the teacher is speaking a foreign language a.k.a. using Pilates terms. Use this guide to decode some of those common, yet totally weird, Pilates terms.
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    Pilates Terms You Should Know:
    “Scoop your abs.”
    May sound like: “Tilt your pelvis.”
    What it actually means: Pull your tummy muscles in towards your spine and simultaneously up towards your chest. This helps lengthen your waist and stabilises your spine during movements. Pilates is all about moving well to prevent injury. You don’t need an ice-cream scoop to perform this move.
    “Articulate your spine.”
    May sound like: Move vertebra by vertebra.
    What it actually means: Rolling or unrolling your spine, either from standing, so you’re rolling forward towards the ground, or sitting upright, so you’re rolling onto your back. The idea is to move slowly, little by little, and with control. Moving this way increases flexibility in your back.
    WATCH: This 45-minute Pilates Class With Kedibone Matlala Is A Great Home Workout With No Equipment
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    “Lengthen through the crown of your head.”
    May sound like: Lengthen through your spine.
    What it actually means: Sit or stand as tall as you possibly can. So no out-of-body experience then.
    “Soften your elbows.”
    Also: “Soften your knees.”
    What it actually means: Whether it’s your elbows or knees that are getting the “softening” treatment, you don’t need Ingram’s to do it. All it means is that you shouldn’t lock the joint.
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    READ MORE: What You Need To Know About Doing Pilates For Weight Loss
    “Fire your glutes.”
    May sound like: Engage your glutes.
    What it actually means: If your Pilates teacher gives you this instruction, all you’re doing is activating your butt muscles as you prepare to move. Case in point: If you’re lying on your back, about to go into bridge pose, squeeze your bum before you lift your hips.
    WATCH: 45-Minute Pilates Home Workout With The Movement Lab Using A Chair And Water Bottles
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    “Wrap your thighs.”
    What it actually means: With your legs together, rotate your thighs outwards very slightly, as you simultaneously squeeze the backs of your inner thighs together. No contact plastic required.
    READ MORE: I’ve Only Been Doing Pilates For A Month And Discovered This Amazing Sex Benefit
    “Bring your wings down.”
    What it actually means: No, this is not proof that Pilates is some woo-woo practice created for fairies. It’s not referring to actual wings. Simply pull you shoulders down away from your ears. Your neck feels better already, right?
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    “Open your chest.”
    May sound like: Chest wide.
    What it actually means: “Scalpel!” No, not really. Just pull you shoulders back and breathe more deeply so your chest expands.
    “Knit your ribs.”
    May sound like: Draw the ribs in.
    What it actually means: As much as a rib-shaped tea cosy would make an interesting talking point at your next brunch, what you want to do here is pull your front ribs, just below your chest bone, closer together. You’ll feel your upper abs engage. It also stabilises your spine. Pilates is especially good for those with back pain.
    WATCH: Beginners’ Pilates Workout With A Stretchy Band (And Practice Your Newly Learnt Pilates Terms)
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    “Pull towards your midline.”
    What it actually means: It sounds like something out of Olympic rowing, but the ‘midline’ is actually an anatomical term for an invisible line down the centre of your body that divides left from right. If you hear this phrase in your Pilates class, you’re probably pulling your leg towards your other leg.
    READ MORE: 4 Genius Exercises From A Pilates Teacher That Will Help You Touch Your Toes
    “Ground your feet.”
    May sound like: Anchor your hips.
    What it actually means: Imagine yourself standing normally and someone bumps into you. You’ll probably stumble, because your weight was more on one foot than the other and you were actually kind of leaning on the side of that foot. Now imagine standing with your feet firmly planted. That’s grounding.
    “Hinge from your hip.”
    May sound like: Break in the hip.
    What it actually means: Bend forward at the hip joint, without rounding your back or bending your knees. Think of a laptop – the screen is the top half of your body, the keyboard is the lower half. Neither bends when you close the laptop.
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    *Adapted from the Best of Women’s Health Big Book of Pilates.
    Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. More