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    World Meditation Day: Your sound healing guide in Dubai

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    Life

    3 mins ago

    With the hustle and bustle of city life here, it’s important to take a few moments and cleanse the mind with some sound healing.
    Based on the principles of vibration, resonance and integration of the mind and body, a sound healing session is the best way to balance the mind, body and soul.
    When is World Meditation Day?
    World Meditation Day is celebrated annually on May 21, with the goal of raising awareness about the benefits of meditation and encouraging its practice. This day promotes self-care, mindfulness, and the cultivation of a calm mind. It encourages people to take time out of their busy lives to connect with themselves and find a sense of peace
    To heal yourself from a cellular level, sound meditation uses different frequency levels to soak in the good vibrations and let go of the bad.
    If you’re looking to embark on your wellness journey, Emirates Woman has curated the ultimate guide of sound healing classes to rejuvenate you for the week ahead.
    Paus

    This wellness café and studio offers a host of calming classes, including sound healing. By making wellness easy for everyone, Paus takes visitors on a holistic healing journey through movement and spirituality. From Candlelight sound healing to sound healing for women only, these classes take everyone on a meditation journey as they bathe in the soothing vibrations of Tibetan bowls.Located at Villa 1202, Al Reef Villas, Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 2, this wellness hub is open daily from 7am to 10pm and classes start at Dhs120 for 60 minutes.
    For more information visit pausdxb.com
    SEVA

    For a private one-on-one session, SEVA ensures everyone can embark on a solo sound healing journey by healing the energy flow through a 60-minute class effective for all. With a strong reset, everyone can find the inner piece. The vibration of the strings causes all thirty trillion cells of the body to resonate, to dance—forming patterns that release blockages that have prevented the cosmic pulsation to flow freely through our being. The private session is priced at Dhs700 for 60 minutes, for a complete cleanse. Everyone can choose from a host of sessions which include, Gong Sound Bath, Crystal Bowls Guided Sound Healing, Private Sound Healing Session and Tibetan Singing Bowls Sound Healing. Post-class, there’s access to high-quality vegan food and fresh juices for everyone to savour. Located in Jumeirah, SEVA is open daily from 8am to 10pm.
    For more information visit sevaexperience.com
    Yoga House

    This neighbourhood yoga studio promises a breathing community in the heart of Dubai. Designed as a place to connect with each other, the sound healing sessions are taken in combination with other journeys such as the cacao ceremony and more for a more impactful session. The sound of the Crystal Bowls creates a feeling of peace in a loving and compassionate way, bringing everyone back into perfect balance and harmony. The sessions start at Dhs250 and take place in both Greens and Dubai Marina.
    For more information visit yogahouse.ae
    DNA Health & Wellness

    This premium wellness centre DNA offers a range of holistic well-being classes, including evening sound healing with crystal bowls led by the expert practitioner and meditation facilitator Prem Amit. When the body’s systems become stressed or compromised certain frequencies become out of tune and everything can become affected. With sound healing, utilising various instruments and tones, the body is gently brought back to its natural state of harmony. The first session is priced at Dhs80 and each single session is later priced at Dhs125. Located at Al Manara on Al Wasl Road, Dubai Marina and Al Serkal Avenue, this clinic is open daily from 8:30am to 8pm.
    For more information visit dnahealthcorp.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Pexels @magicbowls More

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      9 Useful Self-Care Apps For Wellness To Download Now

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      As a long-time wellness writer who’s seen many wellness trends come, go and return, I’ve seen plenty of self-care apps. From all-in-one life organisers to weight loss trackers to meditation apps, I’ve tried an above-average amount. That’s probably because I have ADHD and anxiety, which makes handling tasks and processing emotions extremely difficult for me.Self-care apps are actually amazing: even simple ones, like a journal app or ones that help you fall asleep faster are super useful, since these little habits (good sleep hygiene and regular journalling) can have huge payoffs in your mental health. From my experience, these apps have helped me re-centre in times of overwhelm, help make life easier, and either don’t accost you to buy the paid package or deliver a really great offering for a good price (or for free!).For Meditation: Insight TimerInsight Timer App

      Price: FREE; Premium from R1 095

      My therapist asked me to try meditation for years, and two years ago I finally caved and have been using this app ever since. It’s also one of the few apps in this world that almost never blocks your interaction with a paid members-only paywall. It’s clear this app is actually for the betterment of everyone’s mental health.

      Each check-in, you’re presented with a mindful quote, followed by an invitation to note what you’re grateful for and set an intention. Content includes meditations for mornings, midday and evenings, plus for self-esteem, nervous system regulation and more. It also has a built-in sleep timer, so you can drift off sans blue light.

      Premium unlocks courses on meditation, inner child work, compassion and more. Plus also has offline listening, and better audio quality.

      READ MORE: Why Is Everyone Buzzing About ‘Dopamine Menus’?For Food Tracking: BitepalBitepal App

      Price: FREE, Premium from R1 166

      It’s here. It’s finally here. After years of wishful thinking, you can now snap a photo of your meal and let AI track the calories. I love this app for a few reasons. First, I don’t have to sit like an accountant three times a day calculating the weight and calories. Second, it takes the focus away from me. Instead of feeding myself, each meal photo feeds my pet raccoon, Pesto. (You can call him whatever you want.) He comments on every meal, and no matter what I feed him, he still says he loves me. Bless.

      Tracker can state your calorie intake or leftover, or you can switch modes so it only shows you a colour-graded score based on nutrition, perfect for a less numbers-focused approach.

      Premium unlocks a tracker for macros, statistics of your habits and personalised nutrition tips. It also lets you know how you can improve each meal.

      For Working Through Emotions: WysaWysa App

      Price: FREE, Premium from R125 per month

      Working through difficult emotions is difficult when you don’t have the tools. Deep breathing doesn’t cut it and your therapist isn’t exactly a phone call away.

      Wysa is an AI that can work through your feelings by asking guiding questions to help you sort through your feelings and underlying issues and create an action plan to get through them. There is an option to pay for a digital therapist (human!), but the whole point of the app for me is that I don’t need to pay therapy fees. There are a few guides for aspects of mental health, like gaining energy, better self-esteem and more.

      Premium unlocks exercises to build confidence, improve productivity and more.

      READ MORE: What You Really Need To Know About Running For Weight Loss, According To ExpertsFor Tracking: Habit TrackerHabit Tracker App

      Price: FREE, Premium from R91 per month

      This app helps me a ton, as a person with ADHD. You can list up to five tasks per day, and each is colour-coded. You can also set the frequency of habits, since not everything needs to be done every single day. You can even add some super basic tasks, like having a shower and brushing your teeth, just to start your day with a dopamine boost and create the impetus to complete the rest of your tasks. I kept using this app until I didn’t need to tick things off anymore and would re-download it should I need it.

      Premium unlocks insights based on your habits, a calendar overview and extra slots to add more than five tasks.

      For Anxiety & Depression: stoic.stoic. App

      Price: FREE, Premium from R800 annually

      This app is like a guided journal that’s less about gushing over your crush and more about healing. Includes breathing exercises, meditation, quotes and affirmations. It’s a plain, monotone app without any frills, so it feels like you have space to breathe. Each entry can also be guided with tons of prompts that promote deeper engagement with your psyche.

      Premium unlocks daily prompts, guided journalling, and all exercises unlocked. Premium + AI includes AI to analyse your entries and custom prompts based on your focuses.

      For Mindful Movement: DowndogDowndog Yoga App

      Price: FREE, Premium from R183 per month

      This is one of the few apps I’ve actually paid for. It’s my favourite yoga app and they’ve released partner apps for Pilates, HIIT and more. There’s always a flow to suit your needs: cardio flow with tons of chaturangas, strength flows that pair yoga with strength training bursts and flows for bedtime as well as meditation. There are traditional flows, too: Hatha, Yin, Nidra, Vinyasa and Ashtanga. A big, big plus: the music! I use the Alt Beats setting and love moving to a song that’s in my own playlist.

      Premium unlocks customisable workouts by focusing on different fitness areas like flexibility, glute or core strength or arm balances.

      READ MORE: “I’m A Yoga Instructor And Do These 8 Moves To Open My Hips And Loosen Tight Lower-Body Muscles.”For Mindful Movement: Nike Run ClubNike Running Club App

      Price: FREE

      Yes, I see this specific app as a big one in the self-care apps category. As someone who runs for emotional release, the guided runs and the app’s overall approach to running are very welcome. I’ve been following the Get Started plan, which includes guided runs for every foray. It’s really nice having an encouraging coach in my ear who’s only goal is to help me enjoy running, no PBs, no technical obsessions, just loving being outside. And obvs, the Headspace runs are gold. Huge thanks to Nike for never asking us to pay for it and still having it be a well-looked-after app. Very cool.

      For Journalling: Day OneDay One Journal App

      Price: FREE; Premium from R53 per month

      I’m sure everyone’s heard of this app, much like NRC and Downdog. What I love? It’s interactive: add photos, journal from a location in the app (there’s a built-in map) and it allows you to journal from your laptop or phone (this feature is in the paid membership). What’s great is that each fresh entry has a prompt for reflection. Some examples: “What is a recent moment I want to remember?”; “How is today different from other days?”; “What is a belief I’ve questioned?”  

      Premium unlocks unlimited photos and videos, time-saving features, and journal customisations.

      For Brain Gains: purplepurple App

      Price: FREE

      I added a game because mindlessness is as important as mindfulness. Self-care is also about improving yourself, and purple, created by Belgian game developer Bart Bonte, is a mind-bending game that forces you to think laterally, diagonally, in a zig-zag and in every other way. I can’t say much else except it’s nothing like any other puzzle game you’ll play. Cognitive decline: beat it. (It turns out he’s made several other games: Yellow, Red, Black, Blue, Green and Pink.)

      Michelle is the features editor at WH. She’s immensely curious about the world, passionate about health and wellness and enjoys a good surf when the waves are good. More

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      Women’s Wellness Starts With Sleep

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      Sleep is essential for women’s health, but certain obstacles often prevent them from getting the sleep they need. Hormonal fluctuations during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause significantly impact sleep quality. For instance, restless leg syndrome and insomnia are common side effects of hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle.During pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, physical discomfort and frequent awakenings affect sleep quality. Menopause introduces challenges like hot flashes and night sweats, further disrupting sleep patterns.​Beyond biological factors, societal roles often burden women. Balancing work, family, and other responsibilities can lead to stress and reduced sleep quality. Studies indicate that women are more likely to report poor sleep quality and frequent awakenings than men.​READ MORE: This Chamomile Smoothie Will Make Falling Asleep Easier Than EverGood Sleep PracticesAddressing these challenges involves good sleep hygiene practices.Consistent Sleep Schedule: Getting to bed and waking up at the same time daily regulates the body’s internal clock.​

      Comfortable Sleep Environment: Investing in a supportive mattress and maintaining a cool, dark, and quiet bedroom can enhance sleep quality.​

      Limit Screen Time: Reducing exposure to screens before bedtime minimises blue light interference with melatonin production.​Dial•a•Bed recognises the importance of quality sleep for women’s health. Our range of mattresses and sleep accessories are designed to provide comfort and support needed for restorative rest. By understanding and addressing the unique sleep challenges women face, we aim to empower women to achieve better sleep and, consequently, better health.​READ MORE: 5 Beginner Yoga Poses To Help You Sleep BetterSleep Better with Dial a BedAt Dial a Bed, we believe that a great night’s sleep starts with the right mattress. Beyond offering a wide selection of premium mattresses, we provide essential sleep accessories like pillows, mattress toppers, and more to ensure you wake up refreshed and revitalised every morning. Shop in-store nationwide or shop online 24/7 at www.dialabed.co.za More

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      Friday book club: The complete wellness edition for mind, body & soul

      by

      Life

      15 seconds ago

      As we close this final edition of our Friday Book Club, we’ve curated a selection of books that go beyond surface-level advice to offer genuine transformation in your wellness jouney.
      These are not quick-fix guides or trendy manifestos, but substantial works that address the fundamental aspects of living with purpose, health and clarity. Each one provides a unique lens through which to examine and improve your life, whether through redefining success, healing from within, or optimizing your physical potential.
      Friday book club: The ultimate guide to morning routines of high achieving women

      At the heart of this collection is the understanding that true wellness and wellbeing encompasses both mind and body. The books we’ve chosen reflect this holistic approach, offering wisdom that ranges from psychological freedom to biological optimization. They share a common thread of empowering the reader with knowledge that lasts far beyond the final page.
      The Wealth Money Can’t Buy by Robin Sharma

      Robin Sharma’s latest work challenges conventional notions of prosperity by expanding the definition of wealth to include eight vital dimensions beyond financial success. With insights drawn from his decades of coaching top performers, Sharma presents a philosophy of holistic achievement that values time freedom, physical vitality and contribution as much as material gain. The book systematically explores how to cultivate each form of wealth through daily practices and mindset shifts, offering a refreshing alternative to the burnout-inducing pursuit of success at any cost. What makes this particularly valuable is its balanced approach – acknowledging the importance of financial stability while preventing it from becoming the sole measure of a life well-lived.
      Order it on amazon.ae.
      The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins

      Mel Robbins distills years of psychological research and personal experience into a deceptively simple principle that has the power to transform relationships and self-perception. The book explores how our attempts to control external circumstances and other people’s actions often create the very stress we hope to avoid. Through relatable anecdotes and practical exercises, Robbins guides readers toward developing what she calls “the ultimate emotional boundary tool.” The strength of this work lies in its applicability – whether dealing with workplace dynamics, family relationships or personal goals, the “Let Them” philosophy provides a framework for emotional resilience that adapts to various life situations.
      Order it on amazon.ae.
      The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk

      This seminal work on trauma has become essential reading for understanding how our bodies store and respond to psychological distress. Van der Kolk presents decades of clinical research in accessible language, explaining the physiological mechanisms through which trauma affects everything from memory processing to immune function. The book’s real value comes from its comprehensive exploration of innovative treatments that go beyond traditional talk therapy, including somatic experiencing and neurofeedback. Particularly insightful are the sections on how trauma disrupts interpersonal relationships and the often-overlooked connection between physical health and emotional history, which largely contribute to overall wellness.
      Order it on amazon.ae.
      The Inflammation Spectrum by Dr. Will Cole

      Dr. Cole approaches the complex subject of chronic inflammation with both scientific rigor and practical wisdom. The book begins by clearly explaining how inflammatory responses operate in the body and why modern lifestyles often trigger these mechanisms unnecessarily. What sets this apart from other health books is its personalized approach – rather than prescribing a one-size-fits-all anti-inflammatory diet, Cole provides tools for readers to identify their unique triggers and responses. The inclusion of meal plans, recipes and lifestyle adjustments makes the science actionable, while the underlying message about listening to one’s body promotes long-term health and wellness literacy beyond temporary fixes.
      Order it on amazon.ae.
      Outlive by Dr. Peter Attia

      Dr. Attia’s thorough examination of longevity science reframes aging as a process we can actively influence rather than passively accept. The book distinguishes between lifespan and healthspan, making a compelling case for focusing on quality of life years rather than just total years lived. Attia covers four major areas of focus – exercise, nutrition, sleep and emotional health – with a depth that acknowledges the complexity of human biology while still providing clear recommendations. Particularly valuable are the sections on metabolic health and strength training, which present often-overlooked aspects of preventive medicine. The book’s greatest strength is its balanced perspective, combining cutting-edge research with practical, sustainable application.
      Order it on amazon.ae.
      This collection represents more than just reading material – it offers a comprehensive education in living intentionally to long-term wellness. From Sharma’s expansive view of success to Attia’s science-backed longevity strategies, these books provide the knowledge to make informed decisions about how we live, work and care for ourselves. They remind us that true wellbeing comes from addressing all aspects of our existence – mental, emotional and physical – with equal attention and respect.
      Friday book club: 5 life-changing manifestation books for ambitious women

      As you explore these titles, we encourage you to read with curiosity and patience, allowing the ideas to resonate and integrate gradually. The most profound changes often come not from dramatic overhauls, but from the accumulation of small, consistent shifts in understanding and behavior. May these books serve as valuable companions on your journey toward a life of greater clarity, health and purpose.
      – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Featured Image: @ritakahawaty More

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      Where to Sip: 20 cafés redefining Dubai’s coffee culture

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      Life

      1 hour ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 20 IMAGES
      With unique offerings and an endless array of food and beverage options, these aesthetic cafés offer a space for like-minded individuals to connect or enjoy some alone time with a book.
      Dubai’s burgeoning food scene is growing by the day. Known for its aesthetic interiors and artisanal coffee culture, each creative space allows a quick escape from any mundane routine.

      From Scandinavian-inspired coffee shops to nature-fuelled cafés, these spots not only offer delicious food but also provide a visually appealing atmosphere perfect for capturing stunning photos.
      If you’re looking for a midweek refresh or a co-working environment to inspire you, we’ve compiled some of the most inspiring and Instagrammable spaces for your next visit.
      For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @portrayingmystyle_ More

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      In the office with Dominique Laird, founder and CEO of Blended

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      Dominique Laird, Founder and CEO of Blended, Partner and Creative Director of Solutions Group shares the conception and creation of its newest location at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi.
      How long have you been in this space?
      I’ve been deeply involved in the wellness and hospitality industry for over a decade now. The journey with Blended began several years ago from something quite personal – the simple desire to enjoy massages at home, in my own space. That moment of craving comfort and calm sparked what would become a much larger vision.
      Most recently, we proudly opened the doors to our newest home at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi in Dubai Marina. This marks an incredibly exciting chapter; a full-spectrum wellness and lifestyle hub, where beauty, movement, and deep rest exist in harmony. From state-of-the-art fitness studios to elevated spa and salon experiences, and exclusive access to premium hotel amenities, it’s a 360º space that serves the mind, body, and soul. We’ve brought our signature classes and treatments, including Pilates, yoga, sound healing and massages, and introduced new elements, like Mini Blends for mums and children.
      This latest destination is more than just a wellness space; it’s experiential design in action. Every corner is intentionally crafted to evoke emotion, invite presence, and allow people to interpret the space in their own way whether that means movement, stillness, connection, or escape. For me, this evolution represents years of vision, growth, and an unwavering commitment to building a community grounded in well-being, confidence, and self-love.
      Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces?
      At Blended, we’ve always believed that design should be as healing as it is beautiful. So, the space has been carefully curated – not just styled, but intentionally built to support the wellness journey in subtle and powerful ways. We’ve custom-built many features throughout, from our signature treatment beds designed for optimal comfort and ergonomic support, to a grounding salt cave layered with three tiers of banquet seating that creates a deeply restorative atmosphere. Our multi-use suites are fitted with bespoke bi-fold doors, offering seamless transitions between individual and couple treatments, and everything from our sculptural lighting to our furniture pieces is created with intention.
      “The entire space is designed to be felt as much as seen. It’s not static; it responds to the person within it”
      The layout itself is an experience, following the natural flow of energy through the space, gently guiding guests from arrival into relaxation. Whether you’re entering from the ground-floor salon with its beauty bars and styling stations perfectly positioned by the valet or ascending to the 30th-floor spa with its panoramic views of the Dubai Marina skyline, every element works in harmony to deliver both form and function. We’ve embraced neutral tones and natural textures to bring warmth and calm, punctuated by accent features and gentle curvature; not to jar, but to intrigue, to soften, to invite. The entire space is designed to be felt as much as seen. It’s not static; it responds to the person within it. It allows guests to bring their own energy and take what they need from the space, whether it’s stillness, self-reflection, or renewal. It’s experiential design in its truest sense.
      How do you think the interiors reflect you?
      The interiors at Blended are a direct extension of my personality, my values, and how I see the world. I’ve always believed that true wellness is layered – it’s not just about what we do with our bodies or what we put on our plates. It’s about the way a space makes us feel. And, so, the design is a gentle reflection of that philosophy. It’s luxurious but never loud. Elevated yet grounded. It’s about clean lines softened by soulful details – tactile materials, soft ambient lighting, quiet corners that invite you to linger.
      It reflects my love for serene environ- ments that allow people to simply be. The neutral palette is warm, not stark. The textures are earthy, comforting. Curves and arches bring in flow and femininity – just enough to catch the eye and stir emotion, but never overwhelm. Every detail is layered with intention but leaves space for personal interpretation because I don’t believe wellness should ever feel prescriptive. It should feel open, spacious, welcoming – like an extension of home.
      At its core, the space mirrors my belief that wellness is not one-size-fits-all. It’s an ever-evolving experience. So, we created something fluid, something that moves with the individual. The interiors are part of that journey – holding space for the mind, body, and soul to reconnect, realign, and rise. That’s what Blended means to me.
      Describe your taste in three words.
      Sophisticated, serene, intentional.
      Scroll through the gallery below for a tour inside Blended’s newest address:

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

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      How Gymshark founder redefined entrepreneurship and built a community-first fitness brand

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      Gymshark’s journey from a modest garage to a global fitness powerhouse is a testament in entrepreneurial spirit.
      At the centre is Ben Francis, founder and CEO, who dreamt up the idea of Gymshark after spotting a missed opportunity for quality gym apparel. What started as a dropshipping business model quickly evolved into a brand that placed community over transactions.
      Here, Ben shares his fitness routine and talks us through his journey that led him to redefining modern-day entrepreneurship with a new blueprint rooted in resilience, a few smart pivots, and a deep understanding of his audience – qualities that have propelled Gymshark into a billion-pound success with a loyal following.
      What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
      It’s a pretty simple one really. Wake up, get breakfast and ready for work!
      You founded the company at age 19 and have built an extremely successful global fitness empire. What advice would you give to your younger self?
      Don’t be afraid to fail. Gymshark was actually my seventh business venture. When the other six failed, I was hard on myself. But I learned from each and every one of them, which helped inform and structure Gymshark.

      What was the catalyst to launch GYMSHARK? Did you always want to work for yourself?
      When I first went to the gym when I was 16, I instantly fell in love with it. I knew immediately I wanted to do something that involved it. I was initially going to just put on muscle, but I soon realised that the clothes that were available were either skintight or made me look like I was wearing my dad’s suit. So, I thought, “Why not create something that me and my mates actually want to wear?” And that’s where the concept was born.
      The brand is opening its first store in Dubai Mall. How important is the Middle East region to the brand – was it a market you always want to expand into?
      Absolutely – I’ve visited the region a number of times, and I’m always blown away by the appetite for exercise here. It’s clearly a city that is obsessed with fitness. So, when we knew that we were all in on an omnichannel strategy, Dubai and the Middle East were always very high on our radar.

      What influenced the expansion and how did you manage scaling while retaining quality?
      We really want to be where our community are. And, as I say, there is a vast fitness community in Dubai. When we moved into bricks and mortar, we knew we wouldn’t instantly open 100 stores but rather be in iconic locations with amazing footfall. Take our first flagship store – it’s on Regent Street in London, one of, if not the most significant shopping street in Europe. And, it doesn’t come more iconic than The Dubai Mall in terms of both reputation and footfall. We also think that this ‘gentle’ approach enables us to ensure we retain quality in both our product, our people and our brand.
      Which category drives sales consistently and what separates GYMSHARK apart and ahead from other brands?
      We recently launched our brand platform, WE DO GYM. That’s there to tell everyone that we aren’t a sports brand, we aren’t an athleisure brand, we are a gym brand. It raised a few eyebrows at the time; some thought we might be narrowing our audience. We don’t look at it like that. We want to be the brand that represents the gym and be the first to bring the gym to the high street. As a result, our POWER range for men and our VITAL range for women are the real consistent performers, as these are the ranges that really give our community the confidence and style in the gym.
      Having a passion for fitness yourself, what are the common values and lessons to be learned that translates into business?
      Harking back to what I said about the falling in love with the gym when I was younger, when I started going, it gave me discipline, routine and structure. I was still at school and my grades dramatically improved almost overnight. And I’ve absolutely taken this into business – having this structure and routine.
      Talk us through your wellness routine. What are your daily non-negotiable practices to set yourself up for an optimal body and mind?
      I look to lift four or five times a week. We are very lucky to have a gym, The Lifting Club, on our campus, so I always try and make use of that. I have gotten more into running this year and am looking to bring my 5k time down.
      What is your advice to those wanting to launch their own business?
      Find something you love. For me, it was the gym, and I now believe that I have the best job in the world.

      What are the key qualities does one needs to succeed today?
      Resilience, humility and a bit of naive ambition.
      As a founder, what is the greatest risk you’ve faced in growing your business and how did you know it was one you should take?
      When you consider that Gymshark was a solely D2C (direct-to-consumer) brand, the COVID-19 pandemic had just happened, and there had been reports of the death of the high street for years, opening a store on Regent Street probably falls into that category. However, we often say we like to zig when others zag and go against the grain. I’d say this was a ‘seismic zig’, but as soon I saw the way Regent Street arcs to the left, the historic buildings and some of the incredible brands there, I knew it was the next step for Gymshark.
      Alternatively, are there any milestones you are most proud of?
      Well, the opening of Regent Street (and Dubai, of course too), naturally falls into that category. But I think I’m most proud when I see us bring our community together, as that shows me what we have built and that we are having a genuine, positive impact on people’s lives. So, whether it be our Lift events at cities around the world, store openings or even weekly run-clubs, there’s nothing better than seeing our community come together in real life.

      How do you see the future of the brand – are there any category expansions and new goals on the horizon?
      You will see more stores and more lines. You’ll see the evolution of POWER and VITAL, for sure. And our goal remains the same – to become the most iconic British brand in history.
      – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      Soft Girl Autumn: 6 Ways To Maintain Your Routine & Stay Active In The Cold

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      Bad news, babe: the weather has officially become nippier, the days shorter, and summer is on her last legs. To make the transition softer, might we introduce you to soft girl autumn? It’s a form of autumn self-care – popularised on social media – that helps soften the landing from summer to harsh, icy winter.We’re only in the second quarter of the year, but many people are already reporting feelings of burnout and fatigue. A new report finds that 62% of call centre workers are burnt out from pursuing aggressive quotas. A Gallup report shows that 36% of South African workers experience “excessive daily stress”.Why Autumn Self-Care MattersWhile there isn’t always much we can do to lessen our responsibilities, there is plenty we can do to protect our physical and mental health. Self-care is one of the best things you can do when feeling tired, overwhelmed or stressed. Looking after your body and mind has significant health benefits – it’s easier than you think! Self-care doesn’t necessarily mean a day at the spa; it can be a nutritious snack, a few relaxing moments in the bathtub or an hour with a good book.We’re constantly told to eat clean, exercise daily, manage stress, get enough sleep, and somehow glow while doing it all. But when we skip a workout or reach for something quick and comforting to eat, it can leave us feeling like we’ve failed.This perfectionist mindset can be more harmful than helpful, says Karen Bester, Medical Training Manager at Lamelle Pharmaceuticals. “Health doesn’t have to mean getting everything right all the time. It’s about consistency, doing the little things regularly that support your body and mental well-being. Progress, not perfection, is what leads to lasting change.”READ MORE: Why Is Everyone Buzzing About ‘Dopamine Menus’?So, Where Do You Start?Start small and stay kind to yourself by picking one or two habits you can realistically stick with. It might look like taking a short walk in the morning, drinking more water, or building a simple bedtime routine that includes a nurturing skincare regimen. These soft girl autumn self-care tips will help:Maintain A Consistent RoutineAccording to Northwestern Medicine, routines improve your health by providing structure and organisation. A good routine can help manage stress, improve sleep and diet and exercise. Consistency in sleep, meals, and physical activity helps regulate your body’s internal clock, which is especially beneficial during the shorter daylight hours of winter.READ MORE: How To Turn Those Forgotten Resolutions Into Attainable GoalsPrioritise Natural LightLimited sunlight in winter can lead to decreased serotonin levels, affecting mood and energy. Spending time outdoors during daylight hours, even on cloudy days, can help mitigate these effects. Your move: step outside first thing with a warm cup of tea or throw open the curtains and meditate in the morning light. Up before sunrise? Consider a daylight therapy lamp, which wakes you up with gentle, bright light to stimulate alertness.Schedule Exercise – RegularlyPencil it in. Make a date. Tick it off the list. Regular movement is the key to maintaining health in colder months. Regular exercise not only elevates mood and boosts energy levels but also supports immune function. Whether you prefer indoor workouts like yoga and stretching or outdoor activities such as brisk walking, staying active is crucial. Even short, daily sessions can have a notable impact.See Your FriendsLike, actually see them. Studies have demonstrated that having a robust support network and actively engaging in social interactions can significantly contribute to lessening negative mental health symptoms. Make it cute: schedule a spa day with DIY masks, nail art and more. Or, read that book together you’ve been eyeing and make PPTs unpacking the best parts.Get MindfulWhether it’s taking ten minutes to be screen-free to stare at a swaying tree branch or to do some manifesting in the shower, mindfulness is a powerful tool to encourage yourself, reduce stress and improve mood. Can’t find the motivation to go for a run? Cue a meditating playlist, then step outside and get going!READ MORE: Time For A Training Overhaul? Here’s How To Know When To Change Your RoutineRomanticise The Small ThingsTurns out, romanticising your life by engaging in soft girl autumn self-care routines can yield mental health benefits – no filter needed. It’s all about adding rose-tinted lenses to the mundane, kind of like imagining your life is a montage from Breathless. According to experts, this positive mindset can help you find joy in everyday things. Ideas:Light a candle

      Burn incense

      Buy yourself flowers and smell them

      Curate a playlist and play it

      Add colour to your journal with coloured pencils

      Hang lavender or eucalyptus in your shower

      Take your time slathering on body oil

      Pick a colour and take a photo everytime you see it. (Beige in sand, croissants, wooden floors, curtains!)

      Focus on your senses during meals

      Make your living space look pretty

      Pick a special mug for your coffee or tea

      Take regular breaks for coffee or tea

      Try to make your plate of food look as pretty as possible (a great excuse to add colourful veg!)

      Pick a spot in nature to work out or work

      Reflect on each day More

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      in health and weelbeing

      “PMS Symptoms Ruled My Life Till I Started Cycle Syncing”

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      For most of her life, 33-year-old Daniella Corder from Cape Town was plagued with severe symptoms of PMS. That is, of course, until she heard about cycle syncing. This is her success story.How It Began“Up until my late 20s, I knew absolutely nothing about my menstrual cycle,” explains Daniella. “I just assumed that the painful cramps, sore breasts, hormonal acne and cravings were an inevitable thing to endure each month.”“For many years I struggled with severe hormonal acne and as a result, I went on countless courses of antibiotics, lotions and potions to try and fix my skin – but nothing worked.”READ MORE: Cycle Syncing – How (And Why!) To Tweak Your Workouts, Diet And More Around Your Menstrual Cycle“During this point in my life, my approach to health and fitness was terribly warped as I was fixated on doing intense HIIT classes five to six times a week and restricting what I ate. It even got so bad that I lost my period at one point.” “I just assumed that the painful cramps, sore breasts, hormonal acne and cravings were an inevitable thing to endure each month.”The Change“One day, my sister sent me a podcast about ‘eating and training according to your menstrual cycle’,” Daniella recalls. “The more I learnt about PMS, the more I came to understand that even though PMS is common, it’s not normal at all.”“Through the knowledge that I have acquired over the years, I have tailored my training, eating and lifestyle according to my unique menstrual cycle and hormonal fluctuations,” she says. Most of us know this as the wellness practice called ‘cycle syncing‘.READ MORE: These Unusual PMS Symptom Treatments Actually Work – Minus PainkillersWhat Is Cycle Syncing?Knowledge boost: Cycle syncing is the idea of matching how you eat, work, exercise and recover to the stages of your menstrual cycle. The Result“Now, my skin has cleared up, I get better results in the gym; I sleep better and have more energy. My cramps have gone from an eight to a two,” Daniella explains.“I became a certified menstrual cycle health and fitness coach and [create] all of my fitness programmes around the menstrual cycle.”READ MORE: Painful Periods? PCOS? Meet The Hormone-Balancing Supps“When we start living in alignment with our hormones, not only do we feel more empowered and have more compassion for ourselves, we also have a greater understanding of ourselves and achieve long-lasting results.” How To Start Cycle Syncing?If you want to give cycle syncing a try, we created a step-by-step guide for everything you need to know right here. More