Wellness

Subterms

    More stories

    • 125 Shares

      in health and weelbeing

      10 Things That Happen To Your Body During Dry January

      by

      With the booming production of nonalcoholic wine, beer and gin, a generation of ‘sober-curious’ teetotal trailblazers and research showing that even small amounts of alcohol can have health consequences, Dry January is more popular than ever.

      So if this year’s merriment has left you feeling more rough than refreshed, then perhaps it’s time you, too, try Dry January? After all, research has shown that people who take a month off drinking will keep their newfound habits going in some form. In fact, one study found that people who took part in Dry January were still drinking less in August.

      What are the benefits of Dry January?

      But what are the benefits of swerving the sauce for a full 31 days? And how should you structure your month, so that it works for you?

      We’ll get to that. But, first off, we’ve tapped up the experts – GP Richard Spence and personal trainer Matt Kendrick – for their crib sheet on how ‘livin’ la vida’ sober affects your body, week by week.

      Dry January: Week One benefits

      1. Your sleep might change

      While alcohol might help some people get to sleep, for most, it reduces how long they sleep for, as well as sleep quality, thus having a negative effect on energy levels. The reason is that if you drink before you go to sleep your body experiences ‘micro-awakenings’ during the night.

      You won’t realise they’re happening, but they do affect your deep sleep. However, while poor for your pillow time, you’re used to them. You need to get used to sleeping sober without these.

      If you drank more days than not in December for the first week, you may notice that your sleeping pattern changes slightly or you struggle with insomnia, so you may be tired, but the quality of sleep you get is set to improve.

      2. Your fitness levels should go up

      Alcohol is a diuretic – meaning that your kidneys produce more urine –which can lead to dehydration. Think about your skin after a night getting sozzled: dry, dull and lifeless? Point proved.

      If you keep on drinking lots of water when you exercise, without alcohol in your system your hydration levels will be far easier to maintain – resulting in improved blood flow which is essential for circulating nutrients and oxygen to your muscles.

      Dry January: Weeks two to three benefits

      By this point, you should be starting to feel the bigger positives of passing on the prosecco. With no alcohol in your system for a fortnight, you may notice that your motivation levels are higher due to your new-found willpower, and you may even have started to lose a bit of weight.

      3. You’ll experience increased deep sleep

      ‘When you drink alcohol before bed you may fall into deep sleep quicker,’ confirms Drink Aware. ‘This is why some people find drinking alcohol helps them drop off to sleep. But as the night goes on you spend less time in this deep sleep and more time than usual in the less restful, Rapid Eye Movement (REM) stage of sleep.’

      Alcohol can exacerbate certain sleep conditions, like snoring, and without it, you should be getting a better quality of sleep – making you more energetic and active.

      4. You’ll want to exercise more

      Whether you used to drink more at the weekend or not, with this newfound energy you are now more likely to make the most of your Saturdays and Sundays, swapping a long lie-in for a long walk or gym session.

      5. You should be feeling better, mentally

      The problem is, while a glass of Pinotage or four might give you a sense of relaxation instantly, as you know, the next morning can feel plagued by feelings of anxiety.

      ‘Post-drinking hangovers can be particularly difficult, with the usual headache and nausea being accompanied by feelings of depression and/or anxiety,’ according to the charity Alcohol Change.

      ‘Overuse of alcohol can contribute to the worsening of symptoms of many mental health problems. In particular, it can lead to low mood and anxiety.’ Meaning? That when you dry out, you could well feel less easily shaken, or that your moods are more steady.

      6. Your skin should look healthier

      Drinking alcohol can leave the skin looking tired and puffy, and dryness is a common side effect.

      With no alcohol in your system and a good amount of exercise, by now you should be noticing that any redness or blotchiness has started to fade and that your complexion is clearer and you have healthy, glowing skin.

      The longer-term benefits of giving up booze

      In one month of giving up alcohol, it’s likely that you will have started to feel calmer, tone up, reduce liver fat, reduce cholesterol, reduce blood sugar and gain a clearer complexion – all in a relatively short space of time.

      7. Your liver should be happy

      Although the liver has great regenerative powers, this is not limitless. It will be very grateful for the downtime. As Dr Spence states: ‘As a GP it is always obvious to me if someone has stopped drinking.’

      Furthermore, a study discovered that individuals who stopped drinking alcohol reduced their liver fat fell on average by 15 % and by almost 20% in some individuals. This is good news for helping to future-proof your body against liver damage.

      8. Your focus will increase

      With your sleep cycle back in balance, your body’s ability to store glycogen will improve and this crucial energy source will provide you with greater endurance, and make you feel more alert.

      9. You’ll find it easier to hit your goals

      Now that alcohol’s a distant memory, your improved training regime will be in full swing, and it should be much easier than before to keep on track with any fitness goals that you have set.

      Also, you can expect big improvements in both metabolism and muscle recovery, as your endurance and body’s ability to convert carbohydrates to usable energy improves.

      10. Your skin might glow

      After an alcohol-free month, your body is able to absorb more vitamin A, increasing cell turnover and leaving your skin looking considerably healthier and younger. You will also see a returned brightness to your eyes.

      3 steps to making Dry January work for you

      1. If you’re trying to be healthy, don’t choose fizzy drinks

      Not sure what to choose as your evening tipple, now that wine is off the menu? Don’t fall into the trap of opting for a fizzy drink.

      ‘It might seem like a ‘healthier’ option to opt for a fizzy drink or fruit juice as an alternative to alcohol, but many of these can be surprisingly high in sugars,’ says nutritionist Vicky Pennington.

      What to do, instead

      ‘A better solution to avoid drinks high in sugar would be to spice up sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lime or other alternatives such as mint or fresh strawberries. If you are opting for a fruit juice then ensure you limit this to just 150ml a day.’

      READ MORE: These 13 Simple Mocktails Are So Good, You’ll Make Them Long After Dry January

      2. Don’t let yourself feel out of the loop

      If none of your friends or family are doing Dry January, you might start feeling a bit left out when you’re the only one who arrives at virtual book club without a crisp dry white in hand.

      Sparkling Non-Alcoholic Pomegranate Flavoured Gin and Tonic Mocktail

      Savanna Non-Alcoholic Cider Bottle

      Babylonstoren BitterLekker

      Seedlip Spice Non-Alcoholic Spirit 700ml

      Norah’s Valley Alcohol-Free Cashmere Rosé

      Lautus De-Alcoholised Savvy White 750 ml

      What to do, instead

      Mix up a tasty alcohol-free drink to take to your distance socialising events – tonic water over ice with a grapefruit garnish or an ice-cold kombucha are both good shouts. If you are pining for the taste of alcohol, there are abundant brilliant alcohol-free drinks out there, now, from gin alternative Seedlip to no-booze beer.

      READ MORE: Make These 4 Low-Calorie Cocktails If You’re Watching Your Weight

      3. Try not to go off the rails, come February

      So you’ve made it through 31 days of sobriety and there’s only one thing for it: a nice cold glass of Sauvignon. But before you head straight for the nearest pub: ‘The problem with things like Dry January is that it can feel a bit all or nothing. By depriving yourself for a whole month you might just end up with you binge drinking when February comes around which can lead to various health problems and make Dry January feel like a bit of a waste of time,’ says Pennington.

      What to do, instead

      ‘If you do enjoy a drink just make sure you enjoy it in moderation. It will be better for you to just drink sensibly throughout the year and have a few dry days each week.’

      How to do Dry January, if you’re worried about people’s reactions

      The thing is, though – how do you tactfully withdraw from social wines and chats if that’s a big chunk of your social life and you don’t want to be tempted by the sight of everyone else sipping?

      If you need some help – post-Christmas, or any time you fancy going sober – then check out this advice.

      Taken from author Annie Grace’s book ‘The Alcohol Experiment’, available now, which advocates for trialling 30 days off of swerving the sauce, for the health, financial and emotional benefits, it digs into navigating the minefield of explaining yourself to your friends.

      1. Don’t preach

      ‘Nobody wants to hear all your research into the dangers of alcohol. They already know most of it, trust me. And at this point, they don’t want to be harassed about it. I became an anti-alcohol evangelist at first, and people pitied my husband for having to put up with me.

      ‘If people ask you about the experiment, give them a brief summary to answer their questions. Staying low-key will do more good than making them feel like you’re judging them. If they want to make a change with their own drinking, they’re already judging themselves.’

      2. Be a positive example

      ‘Show your friends that you can have just as much fun without drinking (and without talking about it all the time). Let them see for themselves that you simply don’t want to drink right now, and that’s okay. Again, your friends might feel that by not drinking, you are judging their behaviour.

      ‘Even though this isn’t true, they may still think it. So don’t isolate them. Be as friendly as ever. Let them know you are doing this for you, and don’t try to force the idea on them.’

      3. Be creative

      ‘You don’t have to tell anyone you’re not drinking for 31 days. If you’re worried about how your friends will react, don’t say anything. It’s a personal decision, so keep it to yourself for now. There are lots of ways to explain why you might not be drinking on a particular evening. Here are some of my favourites from our community:

      “I overdid it last night, so I’m taking the night off.”

      “I’m trying to cut back.”

      “I’m doing an alcohol-free challenge.”

      “I don’t feel like it tonight.”

      “I have an important meeting tomorrow, so I want to keep a clear head.”

      ‘If you do decide to continue this 30-day experiment for 60 days, 90 days, or indefinitely, you will eventually want to tell your friends what’s going on. And chances are that many of them won’t get it. They won’t understand. But that doesn’t mean they will stop being friends with you.

      ‘It can take time, but eventually, most of them will accept your decision. Keep it all about you, not them. This is a change you’ve made for yourself. Make sure they know you aren’t going to impose your new beliefs on them. Here are some of the phrases I’ve used:

      “I realised I’m happier when I’m not drinking.”

      “I’m on a health kick, and giving up booze is part of it.”

      “I decided alcohol was no longer doing me any favours.”

      “These days I feel better when I don’t drink.”

      “I was no longer having fun with alcohol.”

      ‘Also be aware that your own attitude can affect how others in your group treat you. Notice if you’re feeling smug or judging your friends for their alcohol consumption. Examine your own treatment of nondrinkers in the past.

      ‘Do you have some of the same assumptions that you’re afraid people will place on you? Also, notice the actual reactions you receive from your friends. Your fears may be completely unfounded, after all. Your decision not to drink may be a total nonissue.

      ‘Mindful observation is the key to deciding this belief. Can you have as much (or more) fun and fit in with your friends without alcohol? The answer for me is absolutely yes! I’m betting you’ll come to the same conclusion.

      ‘But don’t take my word for it. Test it out yourself.’

      This article by Alice Barraclough was originally published on Women’s Health UK. More

    • 138 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      10 Zen studios in Dubai to book for a yoga class

      by

      Lifeby Sarah Joseph30 mins ago VIEW GALLERY/ 10 IMAGESAs it’s important to start the year on a positive note, it’s time to book a yoga session to feel calm from the inside out.So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, there’s a class for everyone to try out and feel completely rejuvenated after.From Vinyasa to hip hop yoga, you can choose a class that fits best into your workout routine to relax and heal during your time off or for a midweek break.Hence, for inspiration on where to book next, Emirates Woman has curated the perfect guide of venues to book for your upcoming yoga class.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @galaortin & Feature Image: Emirates Woman’s January Cover 2024 More

    • 188 Shares

      in health and weelbeing

      If ‘Waste Less Time On The Internet’ Is On Your 2024 Goal List, Try Timeboxing

      by

      How much of your day dissolves down the plughole of the internet? If you’re anything like the typical woman, it’s plenty. One 2022 study found that the average adult now layers an extra five hours of screen time – including television – on top of those dedicated to work.

      Conscious of doing less of this in 2024? Then you might be wondering what the sharpest techniques for doing so are out there – especially if your working day is spent in an office, largely tapping at a computer and attending meetings, and in which getting lost in digital rabbit holes is common.

      Pomorado? The 80:20 rule? Blockers for social media sites?

      Enter: a new method

      One method that might just revolutionise things is ‘timeboxing.’ Effectively an extension of what you’re already doing – a digital calendar, filled with blocks of varying time scales for specific tasks – the concept was first named in the eighties. In our modern, blue light-soaked world, it’s risen to greater prominence.

      After writing a feature for the Harvard Business Review on the topic in 2018, tech CEO Marc Zao-Sanders has expanded on the idea for his first book. Timeboxing: The power of doing one thing at a time is published on 11 January.

      Zao-Sanders credits the method with doubling his productivity. It has, he says, allowed him to be more in control of his day, confident that he’s working on the most pressing task at any given time and, as such, has granted him a degree of serenity – a pleasing antidote to the feelings of hurry and stress which characterised the earlier days of his career.

      READ MORE: 12 New Year Books That’ll Set Up Your Year For Success

      Is it a lot to take on?

      In short, not really. A straightforward philosophy underpins the concept. That is, it’s better to do one thing at a time, rather than flailing from task to task. “This idea of doing one thing at a time is so fundamental and so simple,” Zao-Sanders tells WH. “Life is complicated partly because we’re tethered to devices – any number of people can get in touch with you at any time.”

      “The liberating thing about timeboxing is that, while there are a thousand things you could be doing and which you could be pinged about, there is a log which says ‘do this one thing.’ If you can train yourself to stick to that, refusing to give into distraction, that stress dissolves.”

      He’s an evangelist for resisting the lure of multitasking or context-switching – zipping from preparing a presentation to doing your emails to inputting data into a spreadsheet.

      “Doing this is really common. You’re working on something on your computer, you see a notification that you’ve got an email, you go to that, become distracted and, before you know it, half an hour has passed and you’ve lost track of what you meant to do, leading to stress and frustration.”

      He acknowledges this sounds obvious. “While it’s simple, a lot of people don’t do it. This leads to more stressful lives.”

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

      What is the timeboxing technique?

      To elaborate, here are the pillars which Zao-Sanders says provide a framework for timeboxing.

      What: Choosing what to do, with intention, before the day has begun (so, the night before or the early morning).

      When: Start times and end times; a period in which to get the aforementioned ‘what’ accomplished.

      One: Doing that one thing, single-tasking, not multitasking.

      Enough: And doing it to a good enough standard, rather than chasing perfection.

      How do I start timeboxing?

      Let’s say you’re sold on timeboxing as the tonic to a harried mode of being. How, then, is it done? Try the formula, below.

      Get your calendar up

      Open up your existing digital calendar, whether that’s via Google, Outlook or whatever system you prefer.

      Timebox your timeboxing

      Add in a 15-minute appointment for tomorrow, or the next working day, titling it ‘timebox today.’ You can make this recurring, so you get a reminder to do it, each morning.

      Select your sizes

      Pick what sizes your boxes will come in such as 15, 30 or 60 minutes. (When it comes to tiny tasks, like remembering to acknowledge an email, bundle a load up into a smaller box, to avoid cluttering your calendar.) You’ll likely over or under-estimate how long some things take you, and that’s okay; you can hone as you go.

      Take your to-do list

      When it comes to planning your day in timeboxing, take your to-do list, work out which time frame each slots into, and decide what you can fit into the day.

      READ MORE: Struggle Sleeping? Here’s How To Create A Bedtime Routine, Per Experts

      Timebox away!

      Now, actually create your boxes, put everything into your calendar. Working around things that are non-negotiable (meetings; appointments), fill your day out. Here, take stock of your own rhythms and preferences.

      Early bird? You might like to front-load your day with harder, more thoughtful tasks early, leaving lower-stakes admin for after lunch. Get into the groove a little later? Reverse it.

      You might prefer to start by just timeboxing a morning, or an afternoon, but can then scale up to the whole working day, plus leisure time (gym, go to a mate’s for dinner, play with the kids.)

      When you’re flying with it, experiment with colour coding (for creative tasks versus admin, work versus leisure, etc.)

      This article was first published by Claudia Canavan on womenshealthmag.com/uk More

    • 125 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Exclusive: In the office with Linda Sakr, Founder of Keyani

      by

      Lifeby Camille Macawili2 hours ago VIEW GALLERY/ 5 IMAGESFounder of Keyani, Linda Sakr, disccusess with Emirates Woman about why she created a low-key cosy holistic wellness destination and how it reflects her brand.How long have you been in this space?During lockdown, I realised that we were all going through a major change collectively and I felt what people needed the most was a safe space whereby they can heal their mind, body and soul; so we opened our doors in August 2021.Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces?Yes, our cafe counter, the indoor tables and our reception counter are bespoke. We also custom built our spacious yoga studio that faces our serene garden, the pergola that covers the outdoor area as well as our lovely, handcrafted Mykonos inspired bathroom.How do you think the interior reflects you?Our priority is to enhance wellbeing and so our aim was to turn our space into a cosy sanctuary using natural elements and materials as well as calming neutral colours. A welcome escape from our fast-paced lives!Describe your taste in three words.Serene. Boho. Cosy.Photography by Ahmed AbdelwahabJanuary’s – The Alignment Issue with FitnGlam  – Download Now– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

    • 150 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      6 luxury wellness retreats to visit for a body and soul recharge

      by

      Lifeby Ruman Baig2 hours ago Begin 2024 by embarking on a wellness odyssey by visiting these exquisite retreats across the globe.In the pursuit of holistic rejuvenation, discerning travellersseek havens that transcend the ordinary – destinations where the union of mind, body, and soul is not just a concept but a profound reality. Let’s explore a curated collection of wellness retreats, each an epitome of serenity and tailored experiences.Unparalleled Tranquility – WALDORF ASTORIA MALDIVES ITHAAFUSHINestled on the pristine shores of the Maldives, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi stands as an idyllic sanctuary, dedicated to offering an unrivaled level of privacy and personalised services. The Waldorf Astoria Spa, surrounded by six tropical gardens and four overwater villas, invites guests into a realm of restorative treatments inspired by the elements of earth, water, fire, and metal. Signature treatments, such as the ‘Salt of the Earth’ and ‘Fire of the Sun’, harness ancient healing powers, providing a blissful escape for couples and families alike.Art of Wellbeing – LUX* BELLE MARE, MAURITIUSAlong the picturesque Belle Mare coastline in the Indian Ocean, LUX* Belle Mare, Mauritius, unveils the art of wellbeing at its LUX* Me Spa. Structured around the guiding principles of earth, water, fire, air, and space, the spa offers a selection of 60 treatments using homemade spa products. From glow-worthy facials to unconventional massages using bamboo and herbal poultices, guests can immerse themselves in the spirit of island living. The resort’s Wellness Immersion Programme allows guests to curate extraordinary experiences ranging from 3 to 7 days in this tropical paradise.Harmonising Energy  – ANANDA IN THE HIMALAYASNestled in the Himalayan foothills overlooking Rishikesh and the Ganges River valley, Ananda in the Himalayas is a multiaward- winning luxury wellness retreat. Dedicated to restoring balance and harmonising energy, Ananda integrates traditional Indian wellness practises with international experiences. Signature wellness programmes such as Ayurvedic Rejuvenation, Detox, and Yogic Detox are guided by expert Ayurvedic doctors, skilled therapists, nutritionists, yogis, and spa cuisine chefs. The expansive spa, spread across 25,000 sq.ft., offers a holistic approach to wellbeing, combining the best of ancient practises and modern luxury.Mindful Escape – BRENNERS PARK HOTEL & SPA – BADEN-BADEN IN GERMANYBrenners Park Hotel & Spa in Baden-Baden, Germany, is a haven of wellness nestled in the picturesque Black Forest. Renowned for its luxurious accommodations, the property seamlessly blends historic charm with modern amenities. The spa, a focal point of rejuvenation, offers an array of therapeutic treatments and thermal baths, promoting relaxation and overall wellbeing. Surrounded by lush gardens, the hotel provides a tranquil escape, while its Michelin-starred restaurant ensures a culinary journey. With a rich history dating back to 1872, Brenners Park Hotel & Spa stands as a timeless destination for those seeking a harmonious balance of indulgence and wellness.Revitalise and Rejuvenate – THE ARCTIC BATH HOTEL IN SWEDENThe Arctic Bath hotel in Sweden offers a unique and immersive wellness experience, set against the stunning backdrop of the Arctic Circle. Surrounded by nature, this floating hotel combines luxurious accommodations with a focus on wellbeing. Guests can indulge in the hotel’s spa facilities, featuring saunas, hot baths, and refreshing dips in the icy waters, providing a holistic approach to relaxation and rejuvenation. The architecture seamlessly integrates with the natural environment, enhancing the sense of tranquility. The Arctic Bath hotel invites visitors to embrace the therapeutic benefits of the Arctic region, creating a one-of-a-kind escape that nourishes both body and soul.Modern Oasis – THE AMAN IN NEW YORKAman New York, renowned for its luxurious accommodations and unparalleled service, seamlessly integrates wellness into its guest experience. The propertyboasts an exquisite spa and wellness centre, offering a sanctuary for rejuvenation amidst the bustling city. Guests can indulge in holistic treatments, immerse themselves in yoga and meditation sessions, or unwind in the serene atmosphere of the wellness facilities. The design of Aman New York reflects a harmoniousblend of contemporary elegance and cultural richness, with spacious rooms and breathtaking views of the city skyline. Culinary enthusiasts can savour exquisite cuisine at the on site restaurants, where a commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients enhances the dining experience. Aman New York transcends traditional hospitality, providing a havenfor those seeking both opulence and wellbeing in the heart of the metropolis.January’s – The Alignment Issue with FitnGlam  – Download Now– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

    • 163 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      How Joint Space has transformed the concept of physical therapy in the UAE

      by

      Whether you’re dealing with an acute injury, post-surgery rehab, or a chronic condition that impacts physical function, Physical Therapy can be the perfect solution to deal with any external injuries.Designed to offer an ecosystem of health, movement and education, Joint Space is a clinic and movement space, where customers can recover through any stress impacting the body. Located in Alserkal Avenue, this patient centric environment ensures it provides science-based physical therapies and medicine, movement practices and movement coaching, educational workshops, seminars and talks to help address the problem at its root level.To delve into this further, Emirates Woman spoke to Kris Rai, Co-Founder of Joint Space on how he is revamping the wellness landscape through physical therapy.What inspired you to launch Joint Space and talk us through the concept.Joint Space was a passion envisioned over 15 years ago. The Joint Space journey is from patient to student, offering a seamless journey through an ecosystem of manual therapies, natural medicine, movement and education. The main inspiration for Joint Space was to create a space that would inspire others, including practitioners in their work to create a truly unique environment and integrated approach. The main purpose was to inspire our patients and community to go on a deep journey of discovery and self-empowerment for their long-term wellbeing.Joint Space offers a comprehensive mix of physical therapy services including chiropractic, osteopathy, and physiotherapy – could you elaborate?It is crucial to meet each patient where they are. Joint Space offers these fundamental therapies as our core clinical services, and this is where most of our community begin their Joint Space journey. Each practice has a different approach, and we use these different approaches to support the patient journey. Perhaps they start with our osteopaths, but then they are guided to work with the physiotherapists to help them move onto the next stage of their injury rehabilitation.Talk us through the design of the space and how does it align with what you offer?The atmosphere and energy of a space plays such an important role in a person’s journeys and experience with that space. We wanted to create a space that our community would want to come to, to feel ‘at home’ when they arrive. We wanted our community to feel inspired to go on a journey with Joint Space, and we believe we have achieved this with the design and feel of the space itself. Every detail was painstakingly taken, from the meticulous choice of colours, the finishes, the bespoke scent, the background music, the high ceilings, we aimed to take what was a shell and core warehouse and brought warmth and eastern ambience whilst still maintaining elements of an industrial feel and professionalism of a clinic.The space also offers a series of classes and workshops – tell us about them.Joint Space has a large movement space that allows us to run classes, workshops, training sessions, rehabilitations and community events. The classes and workshops we offer support the patient journey in combination with their treatment. The aim of the classes is for our Joint Space patients to carry on the work required to get them to where they need to be. We have Pilates classes, strength classes, mobility classes, breathwork classes to name a few. I run a movement practice with my wife and founding member Pavlina, whereby we incorporate many different movement forms and philosophies from east to west to help people connect to themselves, others and space. Our workshops are there to educate our community, to give them knowledge and power to understand how to look after themselves. These range from spinal health to women’s health, to movement and much more.The clinic also provides bespoke movement coaching services – how does it work?The Joint Space journey is from patient to student, and that journey requires us to learn how to move, to ensure our body is robust and resilient. Our Joint Space coaches are all high-end coaches that have unique and extensive knowledge in their fields. Everyone who trains with one of our coaches has an assessment with one of our practitioners, to understand previous medical history and injury history to create a clear understanding of the needs of each individual who goes through the movement coaching. We have options for different packages ranging from once a week to four times per week.The Naturopathic medicine treats medical conditions by addressing their root cause – what are some of the most common concerns in this region?Dubai, an international hub and a fast-moving city, is a city that requires a degree of energy that from my experience is unmatched in many other countries and cities. We find a significant imbalance in how people live their lives, trying to do too much, not listening closely enough to their body and as a result often ‘burning out’. Our Naturopaths are highly skilled, often placing significant focus on optimizing gut health, stress management and hormone balancing amongst many other things. Our Naturopaths play a key role in getting to the root of all our patients’ issues and is a fundamental part of patients getting to where they need to be.Maintaining our posture is one of the main concerns for residents in the UAE – what simple exercises can practice in our daily routine to do so?Our posture is the mirror of how we move through our lives. Posture is affected by our parents, our childhood, our personalities, our confidence, our health and of course how we use our bodies on a day-to-day basis, amongst many other things. The human body was designed to move, to be well-coordinated, robust and resilient. When we learn to move well and often, our posture improves without us even trying. There are many ways to improve our posture, but a key component of starting to improve our posture is to be mindful of how much time we spend sitting at computers, desks and on our phones. Move often and move well.The concept focuses on a science-meets-art approach – tell us more.Discovering ourselves, questing to find health and wellness, does not just belong to the realm of science. Before modern science as we know today, came art. Art is the expression of who we are, and appreciating this allows us to see things in a different perspective, to become imaginative, to ask questions, to examine what we see, question our observations, what is it that this person is trying to say? Art allows us to find passion for life and to become inspired, tapping into a part of ourselves that is beyond the logic and black and white of science itself. However, that is not to reduce the importance of science, it is crucial, but rather to elevate the importance of art.This is ‘The Alignment issue’ – what activities ensure you feel aligned daily?In a place like Dubai where life is fast, it is important to have a daily practice that offers the opportunity for you to root yourself. If we do not root ourselves, then we can be blown away in the wind of the rush. My personal practice starts at 5.30am, allowing me the opportunity to position my personal movement practice, breath work and voice work with the rising sun. The sun rising symbolises the start of a new day, the cyclical growth of energy, and practicing with the sun rising gives me the chance to merge into the day with the sun. I call this practice my observational practice as it gives me the space to observe myself at the start of each day; how my joints are moving, how my organs are feeling, how my breath and voice are resonating. For me, these daily observational practices are key to creating attunement within my structure, a space to harmonise so I can move through life more easily.For more information visit jointspace.aeJanuary’s – The Alignment Issue with FitnGlam  – Download Now– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

    • 163 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Kintsugi Founder on pushing her vision forward to create a unique wellness space

      by

      Lifeby Camille Macawili38 mins ago Kintsugi, which translates to “joining with gold”, is a Japanese pottery repair technique of mending broken ceramic pieces with gold.Drawing from this inspiration of embracing imperfection is a new wellness concept located on Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi that aims to uplift and empower its community.Here, Kintsugi Founder and wellness guru Patrizia Bortolin shares with Emirates Woman about finding the confidence to push her creative vision forward to create a unique space dedicated to wellness in Abu Dhabi.What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?I love starting slowly and gratefully. As a coffee specialist, I indulge in tasting my favourite brew right off the bat. Following this, I engage in a session of either yoga Nidra or Vipassana meditation – two practises that hold immense significance in my life.What is the idea behind Kintsugi?I’m guiding this beautiful project and community within a management board. I’m also particularly glad to curate the concept behind the brand and its future evolutions. Kintsugi Space, nestled within a pristine seven-floor pale pink building on Reem Island, is a haven for wellbeing. This carefully curated community brings together female wellbeing artists, healers, therapists, inventors, scientists, and coaches to address both emotional and physiological aspects. It’s a continuously evolving world of interactive experiences, cutting-edge technologies, exclusive signature treatments, transformative rituals and natural therapies within a sanctuary of peace, movement and stillness.How did you know it was the right time to launch Kintsugi and which steps led you to realise this path?The core idea of Kintsugi echoed within me since the first call to consult for the project. I embraced the challenge with an open heart, aiming to bring genuine inspiration and support for women navigating life’s challenges. Recognising the need for a more meaningful, sustainable and inspired approach to wellness, I laid the foundation of Kintsugi through an initial deepening and expansion of the original vision, strategic planning, then operational enhancements, creative execution, and ongoing training, creating a masterpiece of care and synergies between all those incredible women.Patrizia Bortolin, wellness guru and Kintsugi founderThere are three different branches within the brand. Can you expand on the different concepts?Kintsugi is a movement with aligned activities. The brand will develop, and new projects are expected in the coming year, catering to both our Abu Dhabi Space members and global wellness enthusiasts.Kintsugi offers a unique approach to self-care – what wellness activities and practises are available for members?At Kintsugi Space, we offer a diverse blend of ancient healing modalities, modern technologies, scientific expertise, creative wellness and holistic therapies. Our aim is to guide members toward happier and healthier lifestyles, defying categorisation as we blend healing, technology, culture, artistry and community. We believe in creating healthy routines, purifying the body, stimulating the mind, thinking less, enjoying and observing more. Our team of professionals, including wellbeing specialists, naturopathic doctors, nutritionists, and intuitive healers, provides personalised consultations and recommendations for a tailor-made service.Can you define the inspiration behind the flagship space?Kintsugi Space was inaugurated on 6th November 2023 and stands as Abu Dhabi’s first women-only member’s club specialising in holistic wellness. It’s an exquisite sanctuary in the heart of Al Reem Island to rest and reset with the help of pioneering wellness practitioners. Rooted in a vision of blending scientific innovations with vibrational energy work, ancient healing and holistic treatments, it offers whole wellbeing experiences supported by psychology and enhanced by unparalleled quantum technology.The space focuses on guiding customers to a higher frequency – why is this important to our overall wellness?Elevating frequency is crucial for overall wellness as it enhances the quality of everything around us, when the frequency is high, every global aspect of life feels better. It’s a measurable shift that encourages conscious living and mindful energy management.How is the wellness culture growing in the Middle East?We are delighted to inspire women in the region to explore holistic wellness. It’s time to navigate the diverse wellness offerings with a smooth, personalised approach, creating genuine values. While the last few years have seen a rise in the priority given to healing wellness, there’s still a need to bridge the gap in understanding on how to craft meaningful and effective offerings. At Kintsugi we promote conscious, joyful nutrition for a happier mind and gut, combined with the importance of having a calm mind and more awareness of how to improve energy. Natural beauty is encouraged to preserve energy and harmony. We can see a real interest from women in the Middle East in this matter.How do you measure success in the wellness industry?Success in the wellness industry, for me, is defined by significant improvements in both the team and guests’ daily lives. When a place is perceived as an oasis for self-discovery and the joy of being alive for everyone involved, that’s when true success is achieved.What are your therapeutic must-haves for modern-day mindfulness?Essential to my modern-day wellbeing are moments of stillness and silence, outside and inside. I particularly like smelling essential oils, each with its unique uplifting power – orange for joy, and lavender for relaxation for example. I’m a fan of natural remedies, tasty vegetarian food, meditation, quality massage, and face yoga. I deeply relax with a head and face massage, Vichy shower when available and I promote laughter yoga.This is The Alignment Issue – what activities help you align after a hectic day?After a bustling day, I find alignment through meditation, particularly Vipassana, and yoga Nidra. I was taught by an Indian nun that spending quality time cooking a meal for others prepared with fresh ingredients while focusing on good intentions, serves as a deep spiritual practise. I’m blessed by sharing a lot of time with a few authentic healers and great human beings and this is a huge support. Happiness is an inside job.January’s – The Alignment Issue with FitnGlam  – Download Now– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

    • 163 Shares

      in lifestyle and culture

      Take the wellness plunge with 8 of these picturesque resorts in The Maldives

      by

      Begin the year by experiencing a wellness deep-dive at some of the most sophisticated resorts in the Maldives.With an overwhelming work schedule, long hours in front of the screen or a back-to-back itinerary of events, finding the time to breathe and take a break, doesn’t come easy – especially if you live in bustling metropolitan cities.An idyllic wellness escape to reset ready for 2024 is a must for new year to balance body and mind.Joali Being BodufushiThis property offers you personalised wellbeing programmes. From the minute you enter, this wellness sanctuary focuses on finding out which aspect of yourself from the Mind, Microbiome, Skin and Energy needs attention. Home to a total of 68 guest villas, consisting of 33 beach villas and 35 water villas, each accommodation comes with its own private infinity pool. Guided by a team of wellbeing experts, culinary maestros, herbalists, tea sommeliers, and personal trainers, among others, guests can fully immerse in the island’s elemental therapies and healing experiences. Inspired by the joy of spice markets is Aktar, also known as the herbology centre to treat any ailments naturally. For an immersive wellbeing experience, Areka provides recreation facilities with alternative healing treatments.The Hero ExperienceFor healing through water, the Watsu therapy takes place in the Kaashi and focuses on the art of letting go with the therapist who stretches you through free-flowing exercises. All you have to do is trust the process.For more information visit joalibeing.comSix Senses LaamuSurrounded by beautiful coral reefs, the accommodation options include a mix of overwater and beach villas. Prioritizing privacy and seclusion, this resort is situated in the Laamu Atoll, a 25-minute speedboat ride from Velana International. Visitors can discover their dosha with Ayurveda and enjoy nourishing local Maldives spa treatments and restorative facials. Each post-treatment relaxation session ends with a gut-cleansing smoothie at the juice bar to top up the experience. From the meals you relish to the way you sleep and the earth beneath your feet, wellness is seamlessly integrated into your overall Six Senses experience.The Hero ExperienceThrough a non-invasive wellness screening process, guests can book a consultation with the experts to understand what their body needs and then avail of a personalised spa treatment to cater to their specific needs. Through biohacking, the team at the resort can optimise the body’s natural processes to recover quicker, helping the guest to look their best and make the most of their brief stay at the resort. The hacks feature compression therapy, pain relief and instant tension release.For more information visit sixsenses.com/resorts/laamuCheval Blanc RandheliFrom a series of specially crafted experiences to exploring the marine-life-rich waters, this rejuvenating resort focuses on a results-driven renewal with three bespoke wellness journeys. The first is a Well-being Journey that encourages gentle restoration through healing activities; the second is a Detox and Fitness Journey which sheds light on de-stressing and blends healthy dieting with diverse spa, fitness and sports practices; and the third is the Family Well-being Journey for the full family to accomplish their goals together through spa lessons and a teamwork culinary session.The Hero ExperienceTry the Moon Salutation Yoga for a soul-nourishing session at the Spa Yoga pavilion surrounded by the shimmering waters of Noonu Atoll. The session is followed by a Carte Blanche dining experience in the privacy of your villa.For more information visit chevalblanc.comBaros MaldivesOne of the oldest resorts in the Maldives, guests here can put wellness at the forefront with experiences such as a complimentary morning yoga class on The Lighthouse Deck. The waves will lap gently on the sandbank shore as you stretch and breathe. The Serenity Spa therapists can expertly tailor a series of treatments to suit individual guests to deliver maximum benefit during their holiday at Baros Maldives. For soothing one’s mind and spirit, private yoga and meditation sessions can be arranged in the air-conditioned spa pavilion, on the guest’s villa deck, on the Lighthouse Deck or at sunrise and sunset on a sandbank.The Hero ExperienceThe property’s resident yoga therapist takes guests on a yoga journey with advanced poses on the deck, where they are surrounded by crystal-clear water.For more information visit baros.comFinolhuThis property is situated in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives. The resort’s Wellness Centre allows guests to enjoy a refreshing yoga session or an invigorating workout in an oceanfront setting amidst lush surroundings. With activities such as the semi-submarine, visitors can enjoy this experience to witness nature first-hand. Whether guests are staying as couples, family, or a group of friends, Finolhu is designed as an island playground with a choice of immersive experiences for everyone.The Hero ExperienceCool down by sweating with the Hydrotherapy that instantly cleans the skin and ensures you feel relaxed. The facilities at Fehi Spa after an intense workout help to reduce muscle soreness the next day, with the plunge pool hydrotherapy an absolute must-try.For more information visit finolhu.comAnantara Kihavah Madives VillasThis state-of-the-art resort works on healing from the inside out through the healing properties of indigenous plants and fruits. With restorative facials and vitamin IV infusions, including other detoxification therapies, its luxurious water villa spa goes back in time to rely on 5,000-year-old natural Ayurvedic healing techniques. From holistic treatments to a customised rejuvenation journey with the resident Ayurvedic Master, visitors here can elevate their wellness experience at the resort’s stunning overwater Maldives spa.The Hero ExperienceTry the Kativasthi which is a unique spinal herbal bath where a small natural paster reservoir is created on the lower back with the bare skin acting as its base. The medicated oil remains there for 45 minutes and is used to treat chronic or acute back pains including spinal disorders, lumbar spondylosis, sciatica and osteoporosis.For more information visit anantara.com/kihavah-maldivesSoneva SoulThis transformative wellness concept uses uplifting ancient healing wisdom coupled with the latest in science and innovation to connect the mind and soul. The resort’s experienced therapists create a personalised wellness experience that empowers each guest to achieve long-term wellness goals. With its nature-inspired design, the island’s wellness sanctuaries blend integrative medicine and complementary therapies to promote true healing and attempt to release visitors from unexplained stress and chronic illnesses.The Hero ExperienceThe Medicinal Herbal Bath layers guests with both fresh and dry elements to boost their mood, calm the mind, soothe sore muscles, open pores, soften skin and promote a restful sleep.For more information visit soneva.com/soneva-soulJumeirah Maldives Olhahali IslandSituated in the heart of Olhahali Island, this picturesque resort stands out for its Mediterranean chic design. Guests can take their pick with the therapeutic spa treatments or access the 24-hour fitness centre with captivating views of the crystal waves. Located just an hour by speedboat, or 15 minutes by seaplane, from Velana International, this property set in a beautiful archipelago is curated with calming interiors and lush green vegetation all around for nature to play its part in your wellness journey.The Hero ExperienceFor an elevated wellbeing experience, opt for the Tibetan Crystal Healing Massage that allows the power of the Tibetan Singing Bowl and Healing Crystals to take root. As the treatment focuses on the vibrational sound that aids the vital energy to achieve a deeper sense of relaxation, the crystals interact with the body’s energy field, creating balance and alignment.For more information visit jumeirah.com /stay/maldives/jumeirah-maldivesThe Alignment Issue with FitnGlam  – Download Now– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More