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      Is the ‘What I Eat in a Day’ Trend Helpful or Harmful?

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      By now, we’re all well aware that social media is far from reality, but when we’re in the depths of our feeds, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. This is true of one of the biggest trends currently crowding our feeds: “What I Eat in a Day.”
      When I first discovered the trend, I felt a palpable confusion. Getting a play-by-play of creators’ carefully-crafted meals left me questioning what a healthy diet looked like for me. As someone in recovery from a years-long eating disorder, I was susceptible to this one-size-fits-all approach to diets. Below, I’m breaking down the trend—what it is, why it can be damaging, and how I learned to make peace with the proliferation of diet diaries. And if you’re also feeling uneasy about this trend, know that you can always redefine your relationship with it.

      What is the “What I Eat in a Day” Trend?
      Watching a short video of someone detailing the meals and snacks they ate in the last 24 hours might sound dry and—truthfully—kind of boring. However, the personal content of “What I Eat in a Day” videos is a huge engagement driver for many online creators. Looking through the hashtag #WIEIAD, you’ll see short-form videos recapping everything that person ate in a day, from their morning cup of coffee to their after-dinner dessert (if there is one). Today, the tag #WhatIEatInADay has amassed over 12.8 billion views on TikTok.
      As with ample online video content, this trend started on YouTube. It can be traced back to the early 2010s, when users began tracking their meals (and often, calories). Fast forward a couple of years, and the videos started to shape a significant part of the wellness conversation, with vegan and fitness communities leading the charge. Daily diet diaries began surfacing on YouTube in abundance, and this content spread from fitness to more general lifestyle realms. With the rise of TikTok and the inception of reels, these quick videos set the stage for an even easier way to roll out “What I Eat in a Day” content. Because of social media, we can now track and recreate others’ diets for ourselves.

      Why the social media trend could be damaging: 
      Most of the foods and meal plans showcased in “What I Eat in a Day” videos aren’t inherently harmful, and many tout the benefits of nutrient-dense and satisfying picks. However, this content can drive obsession and keep us from choosing the foods we truly want and need. 
      “Many of these videos are promoting diet culture and disordered eating behaviors. When watching these videos, people may feel self-conscious and anxious about what they eat in a day, compared to these curated videos,” Chelsea Kronengold, Communications Manager for the National Eating Disorders Associated, shared with Healthline. For example, viewers may believe eating larger portions than what’s shown in a video is wrong and, therefore, plan to cut back. 
      These videos are often created with good intentions. Some videos even highlight the importance of flexible eating styles or how to eat more sustainably. But just because your favorite influencer eats a certain way—even if it’s a healthy way—that doesn’t mean you should too. While I appreciate the nod to inclusivity with disclaimers like “intuitive and non-restrictive,” it can still lead to people thinking there’s a right and a wrong way to eat. Remember: Our days and our diets differ, and one person’s nutritional needs don’t look exactly like another’s. What intuitive eating looks like for one person will look, by definition, entirely different for another.
      Registered nutritionist Rhiannon Lambert shared with Business Insider that what someone else eats—healthy, sustainable, realistic, or not—might be completely opposite of what another person needs. And just because the FDA uses the 2,000 calories per day mark as standard nutrition advice, your needs could fall above or below that threshold. So when calorie counts get involved, the experience of watching “What I Eat in a Day” videos can become all the more confusing—and potentially damaging—for viewers.

      How #WIEIAD can be used for good:
      Get curious about your intentions for watching.
      Even as I critique the trend, “What I Eat in a Day” content has helped me discover fun food brands, try out new recipes, and learn the aesthetic pleasure of matching Tupperware. By watching the videos for inspiration beyond nutrition and meal planning, I’ve come to enjoy them. And that’s what it comes down to—the intention you bring when you tap on a post or press play on a video.
      While we can still watch and feel inspired, we must stay grounded in our truth, knowing that whatever we eat is perfectly OK—so long as it supports our unique and personal needs. As with all social media, I ask you to get curious and be critical about the content you’re consuming. Some questions that might be helpful to ask yourself: 

      Does this video make me feel like I have to change how I eat?
      Do I feel bad about myself or my eating habits after watching?
      Do I feel inspired and excited to try new foods and make new recipes?
      Does the creator make me feel seen because their budget or body type is similar to mine?

      Watch to get inspired, not down on yourself.
      If you get a serotonin boost every time you watch a video with colorful fruits, veggies, snacks, and sweets, by all means—revel in it. And if you’re tired of your same old breakfast routine or are guilty of making the same thing for lunch every day, there’s no harm in letting a recipe or video be the catalyst for your own creations. Seeing how other people eat can be beneficial. If you see a meal that looks tasty and you want to try it in your own way, go for it! Just be sure to recognize that not every meal of the day needs to be exactly like theirs. If you start to feel bad about the way you eat, it may be time to stop watching.
      Online food content can allow you to learn more about yourself and develop a kinder relationship with your eating habits. As someone with a big appetite for novelty, I find immeasurable joy in discovering the best avocado-slicing hacks and diving deep into other cultures’ staple recipes. Just as food is fuel, it’s also a pleasure and an opportunity to connect with the people and world around you.
      So, search for inspiration, then put down your phone and eat, cook, and create in a way that feels truest to you. And if it’s really pretty and you’re proud of it, feel free to snap a pic or take a video. Just remember that the aforementioned rules apply: Your plate doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. 

      What to Read, Follow, and Listen to For Your Inclusive Wellness Journey More

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      Strengthen your core in the comfort of your home with this online platform

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      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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      I’m a Registered Dietitian and These Are 10 Wellness Products I Swear By

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      Between TikTok trends and brands that promise their product will cure all your health woes, finding the best wellness products for you can be challenging. It’s no secret that we all want to be our happiest, healthiest, and best selves, but health and wellness is not a one-size-fits-all approach. A product that your favorite influencer swears by might not work well for you (I know I’m not the only one who’s fallen victim to good marketing). 
      As a registered dietitian, I often focus on what foods I eat, but I also believe in using products that make me feel my best inside and out. Ahead, I’ve rounded up 10 health and wellness products I use (almost) daily that keep me feeling my healthiest self, and I hope they will do the same for you. 

      Self-Cleaning Water Bottle
      If you are “Little Miss Never Leaves the House Without an Emotional Support Water Bottle” (me), then you need this water bottle in your life ASAP. The LARQ water bottle uses PureVis technology to self clean and purify, eliminating up to 99 percent of bio-contaminants (like E. coli) from the bottle and your water. I’ve used this bottle for over a year, and I love that, with the click of a button, I have clean, purified water, making this water bottle ideal for work and travel. Although it’s an investment, I can confidently say that having a self-cleaning water bottle makes meeting my hydration goals a breeze. 
      5 colors available

      Natural Deodorant
      Deodorant might not be the most glamorous wellness product out there, but after being on the hunt for an aluminum-free natural deodorant that actually offers long-lasting protection, I finally found the one. If you haven’t tried any of the products from Megababe, I suggest you run, don’t walk to your local Target. I love this deodorant because it’s not only free from parabens, aluminum, phthalates, and more, but it also keeps you smelling fresh all day long with its geranium and lemon scent.

      Yoga Mat
      I personally believe everyone needs a yoga mat, not only to practice yoga, but to roll out for all of your at-home workouts. I use my yoga mat almost everyday either for pilates workouts, yoga, or stretching after a long day of sitting. While there are a variety of yoga mats out there, I suggest investing in one that is both grippy and cushiony. This one fits both of those descriptions and comes at a great price point.
      20 colors/designs available

      Supergoop!
      Mineral SPF Powder
      If there’s one thing I never walk outside without, it’s SPF on my face. And even though applying SPF is locked into my morning routine, re-applying it throughout the day is not. Enter: Supergoop!’s Mineral SPF Powder. This powder is easy to throw into your work bag or purse and comes in four shades to wear over or under makeup. Did I mention it’s mattifying? Say goodbye to unwanted shine and protect your skin in one easy brush.
      4 shades available

      Bob’s Red Mill
      Chia Seeds
      A strange but true fact about me is that I sprinkle chia seeds onto at least one meal a day. I could go on and on about all the health benefits of these tiny seeds, but I’ll spare you the details and leave you with this: Packed with fiber, chia seeds help keep your gut moving. (See: the viral TikTok internal shower.) I’m here to tell you that if drinking them isn’t your jam, pairing them with your favorite yogurt or sprinkling them over avocado toast just might be. 

      Nathalia Westmacott-Brown
      A Little Book of Self Care: Breathwork
      Perhaps one of the most powerful changes in my wellness routine was becoming mindful of my breath. The breath is truly connected to everything we do and, for me, it’s the key to managing life’s daily stresses. For a deep dive into breathwork, I highly suggest this book. A Little Book of Self Care: Breathwork provides 50 step-by-step practices that you can use at home, each with expert advice on body position, visualization, duration, repetition, and more. I love that the author highlights traditions and different breathwork practices found around the world while also discussing the significant physical and mental benefits breathwork can have. From breathing to relieve stress to boosting your resilience, there’s a breathwork practice for everyone.

      Sneakers
      I remember seeing these shoes advertised as walking on a cloud, which of course instantly piqued my interest. After trying them out for myself, I can confirm they are cloud-like. They offer more cushioning than the average running shoe and, quite literally, put a pep in my step. If you’re looking for a new pair of shoes for your next hot girl walk, these are it.
      17 colors available

      Organic Cotton Tampons
      Let’s talk about everyone’s favorite topic: period products. When it comes to feminine care, it’s important to know what’s in the products you use potentially 5-7 days every month. I switched to LOLA two years ago, and it has put me so much more at ease knowing my tampons and pads will arrive at my doorstep without any chemicals in sight. Founded by females, LOLA uses 100 percent organic cotton in their products, and their applicators are BPA-free. If tampons and pads aren’t your thing, they also have period underwear and menstrual cups.
      4 absorbencies available

      Youth to the People
      Purifying Face Mask
      My Sunday night ritual includes treating myself to an at-home facial, this face mask included. Recognized as a part of Sephora’s collection of clean beauty products, this clay mask absorbs excess oil while exfoliating and supporting your skin’s moisture barrier. I find this mask to be very gentle and helpful in soothing my skin when breakouts occur. I highly recommend this face mask for weekly use, but talk to your dermatologist before bringing new skin care products into your routine. 

      Wellness Journal
      I’m a big fan of journaling to clear my mind and work through hard emotions. But when I discovered gratitude journaling, it completely changed the journaling game for me. In fact, writing down what we are grateful for has been shown to have positive effects on our mental health. Coming in multiple colorways, this wellness journal offers space to write out what you’re grateful for each day and additional prompts to track your goals, daily habits, and more! If journaling hasn’t been your thing in the past, this might be the one to make the habit stick.
      8 colors available

      10 Products a Fitness Trainer Always Has in Her Gym Bag

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      I’m a Yoga Instructor and These Are the Only Poses You Need for a Strong Core

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      As a yoga instructor and fitness fanatic, I know that a strong core is essential for both your exercise routine and daily life. However, most of my students don’t want to spend an entire yoga class working on abs, and I don’t blame them. The good news is you only need a few poses for a phenomenal abdominal workout. Below are my three go-to yoga positions to develop a strong core. 

      1. Plank

      On mornings when I don’t have time for sun salutations, I still squeeze in a minute of planking after a quick stretch. That’s because this popular pose works all four muscle groups in your core, making it my go-to move. These muscles include the rectus abdominis (your “six pack” muscles), transverse abdominals (your deep core muscles), and the external and internal obliques (the outermost muscles on each side of your core). In other words, adding this single pose to your exercise routine can seriously elevate your ab game. 
      You’re likely already familiar with this exercise, but implementing a few tweaks to it can make it more effective. First and foremost, make sure your hips aren’t sagging and your booty isn’t sticking out. Your body should be a straight line from your heels to your shoulders. To prevent a strained neck, don’t look up. Instead, gaze at a spot on the floor about a foot in front of you, keeping your neck neutral. Lastly, if you feel tension in your lower back, you’re probably not properly engaging your core. To fire up your abs, imagine pulling your belly button to your spine. 

      2. Cobra 

      When I have time to warm up my spine with some cat-cow stretching, I like to incorporate cobra pose into my practice. On the surface, cobra may look like any other stretch. However, it’s a great way to strengthen your core and spine when done correctly. If you’re anything like me, you spend too much time looking down at your phone or laptop. Over time, this can take a toll on your posture and cause back pain. Cobra pose helps counter the effects of poor posture by encouraging proper spinal alignment and relieving pressure from your lower back. This enables you to keep your spine erect throughout the day, relieving back pain and engaging your core even when you’re off the mat. 
      To practice cobra pose, start lying down on your stomach with your hands under your shoulders and your fingers spread wide. Your elbows should point straight back and remain close to your body. Press your pubic bone and tops of your feet into your mat, engaging your thighs and rotating them inward. On your next inhale, lift your chest off the floor, keeping your shoulders down and opening your chest. Look forward and pull your belly button to your spine to feel engagement through your core. 

      3. Boat Pose with a Twist 

      If I’m feeling a high-energy core workout, I like adding movement to traditionally still poses. My favorite sweat-inducing variation is boat pose with an oblique twist. While this move strengthens your entire core, it forces you to focus on your obliques. This helps improve your balance and protects your spine when twisting your torso doing everyday activities, like reaching across your body for a cup of coffee. 
      To try this pose, sit on your mat with your legs extended out in front of you. Lean back slightly, keep your back straight, and lift your legs off the floor. From there, you can either keep your knees bent with your shins parallel to the floor or extend your legs to a 45-degree angle for a more intense core burn. Keeping your chest lifted and your core engaged, bring your hands into a praying position. From here, twist side to side, gently tapping alternating elbows on the mat.

      5 Inexpensive Ways To Become a Pilates Girl at Home More

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      How I got my job as… Founder of the UAE’s largest on-demand wellness platform

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      Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
      This week we chat with Jennifer Tromba-Qadir, founder of REVA, the UAE’s largest on-demand wellness platform. The concept was launched five years ago by Tromba-Qadir and her husband after she noticed there was a gap in the market for home services for massages and other spa treatments. Being a busy mum on the go and also working full-time, she found it difficult to ever get time to be able to visit a wellness hub or spa, thus the idea for REVA was born. 
      Emirates Woman sat down with Tromba-Qadir to find out more about the concept of REVA and its plans for further expansion in the GCC.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      My favourite subjects were art and chemistry. I love letting my creativity flow without any boundaries or rules. Art gives me the freedom to express my thoughts, feelings, and sentiments in so many different ways. With chemistry, I was always intrigued with how two unrelated things can be combined to create something a lot more useful – it kind of defines my motto in life!
      What was your first job?
      I worked two jobs when I was 14 years old. I grew up on Sanibel Island which is a resort island off the coast of Florida. It’s known for its shell beaches and wildlife preserves. While living there I worked at an island gift shop and as a hostess at a fine dining restaurant. So the hustle started early for me!
      What brought you to Dubai?
      I went on a girls’ trip to Dubai, met a man and fell in love. Totally not how the girls’ trip was supposed to end up! I am a pretty intuitive person and something about this guy made me feel alive in a way I never felt before. I told my girlfriend on the first day of our trip that I was going to end up marrying him. We did long-distance for a year and then eventually we got married and I made the move to Dubai. We have been together for 10 years now with two beautiful kids. I guess my intuition was right!
      Fortunately, Cleveland Clinic in Abu Dhabi was being built at the same time. As I am a Registered ICU & Trauma Nurse with over 15 years of experience, I was able to get hired to help open up the hospital and train the incoming nurses.

      What inspired you to enter the wellness space?
      Wellness has always played a vital role in my life. I went through a couple of traumatic events early in life and had to learn how to cope with anxiety. In America, you can get a pill for anything and I knew there had to be a better way to heal from the inside out. I started looking into wellness and was amazed at how positively my body was responding to yoga, massage and meditation. Once I saw the results, I knew I wanted to help others through wellness.
      Talk us through the concept of Reva.
      REVA is the largest on-demand wellness platform in the UAE. Our professional therapists come to any location of your choice to deliver a number of services which includes massages, yoga, and corporate wellness solutions such as chair massages.
      Our goal at REVA is to provide high-quality, spa-like services at affordable prices. The world is moving at such a fast pace and people want to improve their wellness. However, they cannot find the time or the right platform to suit their needs. This is where REVA excels – you can browse, book, and pay online through www.revauae.com and we will come to any location in as little as a few hours!
      What are the key elements of your role?
      I like to call myself the CEO – Chief Excellence Officer. This is because my primary goal is to ensure excellence in every aspect of our business. From the way we answer your phone call to the training we provide for our therapists. Ultimately, each aspect of our business helps ensure that we are providing excellent wellness services for our clients. Today we have thousands of online reviews with a 4.9 rating (out of 5.0). So I think I am doing my job as CEO pretty well!
      However, the reality is that I am involved in every aspect of the company since my husband and I have created REVA from the ground up. I personally oversee the recruitment, hiring, training of therapists, branding, business development, corporate wellness, networking, and building our client relations. I also work closely with our marketing team on new ideas for content and the creation of new massages.
      Talk us through your daily routine.

      During the week, I wake up at 6:30am with the kids to help get them dressed, have their lunches made, and get sent off to school. Of course, this is with the invaluable help of nannies – we live in Dubai after all!
      I’ll then go on the treadmill for 30 mins while watching the news to catch up with what’s going on in the world. For breakfast, I make the world’s best green smoothie and add in supplements. It’s an easy way to get in a lot of vitamins and nutrients right away – and it doesn’t taste gross!
      Then I will dive right into work – responding to emails, planning therapist training, social media strategy for the week, lunch or coffee meet-ups with one of our clients or influencers that we work with, working with our team on the expansion of REVA, accounting, inventory, creation of new massages and testing them. It’s endless!
      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      First of all – don’t follow in my footsteps or anyone else’s. Create your own path because that is the one meant for you. The moment you try to copy someone else, you are compromising on your potential and originality.
      That being said, find something you are really passionate about and just never give up. Being an entrepreneur is extremely rewarding but there have been so many challenges along the way that can come out of nowhere.
      Most importantly, if your purpose is to create income then make sure your idea is financially viable. Dreams don’t pay bills – money pays the bills!
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      I heard a quote recently that really resonated with me. It was “Don’t spend all your time trying to find yourself. Spend your time creating yourself into a person you will be proud of”. For me, I want to make sure I can be the best version of myself and an amazing role model to my kids. So I try to envision that person and work hard on bettering myself every day, in all aspects of my life.
      Also, don’t be afraid to fail. You have to fail in order to grow and lose in order to gain. Life’s greatest lessons are learned best through our failures!
      And what is the worst?
      Just be patient and good things will come. Maybe in love, this can be true, but not in business. You need to go after what you want and work hard towards your goals. Nothing comes easy in business or in life, and you have to work for it everyday!
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      Finding the right balance between work and family life. I can easily get consumed with work and work from 8 am to midnight. So trying to add more structure and devote time to my day for me, my kids, husband and family has definitely helped.
      What are the future plans of your company?
      We have a lot of exciting things coming up! We are one of the first UAE-based wellness brands to go international. We will be launching in Qatar next month and we are already starting the process for Saudi!
      Even more exciting is the brand new REVA APP that we are about to launch. We are constantly looking for ways to improve our customer experience and make the process as seamless as possible. You will be able to browse, book, pay, and get our services in a few clicks!
      Lastly, we have a number of very exciting services that will be launched soon. New slimming treatments, facial rejuvenation, spray tan, and more!
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      5 Ways to Make the Transition off Birth Control Easier, According to Experts

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      When I talk to other women about their experiences going off birth control, I often hear different stories. Some women complain about irregular periods, painful cramps, or mood swings, and others say the transition was relatively easy. Studies have shown that 80 percent of women regain hormonal balance no less than three months after stopping the pill, but for some, it can take even longer. Our bodies are all unique, and birth control affects us differently. After experiencing my own side effects and speaking with other women about theirs, I realized that a lot of women are looking to stop hormonal birth control (for a variety of reasons) and want to make the transition off it easier. So I looked to the experts to share their best tips.
      I spoke with Dr. Trevor Cates, a naturopathic practitioner, as well as Jade Mesquita, a holistic nutrition practitioner and clinical herbalist. Before we get to the tips, both experts agreed that the first step should be remembering why you went on birth control in the first place. “When someone goes on birth control, it’s usually either for birth control or they’re trying to manage some symptoms,” shared Dr. Cates. If you originally started birth control for symptom management, there’s a good chance that “whatever was being suppressed hormonally is going to come back,” so work with your doctor to identify and heal the root cause of the symptoms. But no matter your reason for going on and going off birth control, read on for some expert tips to make the process easier.

      1. Eat nutritionally-dense meals
      The body is an interconnected organism, so it’s no surprise that what we eat can affect our hormones and help to balance them. Mesquita shared that the number one focus should be balancing blood sugar by making sure every meal or snack has a source of protein, fat, and nutrient-dense carbohydrates. “Instead of just eating a banana, pair it with greek yogurt for protein and almond butter for some healthy fats,” she suggested. She also explained the importance of never skipping meals (especially breakfast) and eating when you’re hungry. 
      Dr. Cates explained that B vitamins, such as B-12 and B-6, and certain minerals like magnesium, selenium, and zinc, are common vitamins and minerals that can get depleted by taking the Pill, so you may be low or deficient in them if you’ve been on hormonal birth control for a while. These deficiencies can cause symptoms to become worse, so Dr. Cates recommended boosting your intake of foods like dark leafy greens, healthy fats, and protein, and talking to your doctor about testing and/or supplementing these nutrients. 

      2. Boost your gut health
      The gut is the control center for the rest of the body. It affects so many areas, from detoxification to brain health, so it’s no wonder that ensuring good gut health during this transition is important for your hormonal health. “You want to start boosting your gut health by eating lots of fiber-rich foods, like chia seeds and cruciferous vegetables, or taking a probiotic,” Dr. Cates suggested. Jade agreed, recommending you get enough fiber to ensure you’re having at least one bowel movement a day so your body is able to properly detoxify. You should always listen to your gut (pun intended), and if you are having any gut issues such as bloating and constipation, talk to your doctor about ways to increase your gut health. 

      3. Reduce stress levels
      Stress can have a huge impact on the body, especially our hormones, which is why it’s helpful to prioritize practices that can manage stress levels. “If we’re really stressed out and we’re not getting a good night’s sleep, it can impact adrenal function, cortisol, and nervous system balance,” Dr. Cates said. She suggested getting at least 6-8 hours of sleep a night and going to bed at the same time every night so your body is able to get an optimal amount of high-quality shut-eye. Aside from sleep, practicing other methods of stress management, such as meditation, breathing exercises, journaling, or physical activity, is also a good idea.

      4. Opt for low-impact workouts
      While it’s fun to switch up the type of workouts you do every now and then, many experts recommend sticking with low-impact workouts during this period as your body is adjusting to a new hormonal balance. “High-intensity workouts can raise cortisol in the body, so during this period, reducing cortisol as much as possible can help to make the transition off birth control easier,” Jade explained. Luckily, there are so many low-impact workouts to choose from such as pilates, yoga, and—my personal favorite—walking. We want to make this process as easy for the body as possible, and if a low-impact workout helps, then a hot girl walk it is. 

      5. Have a reproductive health plan
      If you’ve decided to go off birth control, it’s a good idea to have a plan in place. If an unplanned pregnancy is a concern for you, Dr. Cates emphasized the importance of having an alternative form of birth control to put into practice immediately after (yes, you can get pregnant even soon after getting off the Pill). “Whether it be a non-hormonal IUD or fertility awareness methods, tracking your ovulation is a really powerful thing, and it’s something we don’t have access to when on birth control pills,” she shared. 
      While this transition can sometimes feel scary, it can also be an empowering time to better understand your body. And building a plan around your body’s natural cycle can make the process even smoother. If you’re going off birth control for the purpose of family planning, work with your doctor to balance hormones to improve fertility as much as possible. No matter your current goals, having a reproductive health plan is always important, and transitioning off hormonal birth control provides a good opportunity to rethink what’s best for your body, goals, and lifestyle.

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      The Best Books, Podcasts, and Social Media Accounts for a More Inclusive Wellness Journey

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      Wellness has come a long way. While the industry has been criticized for being largely consumption-led (gadgets and wellness apparel, while fun to stockpile our virtual shopping carts with, market an aspirational image of “health”), we’ve thankfully begun to shift our idea of what wellness really means—and, in turn, what it looks like.
      While wellness is our individual physical, mental, and emotional health, it’s also community health. A holistic, inclusive view of wellness requires that we acknowledge the social, economic, and environmental disparities that allow some people access while keeping others out. And while one of the best ways to transform an industry and create a more inclusive world is action, alongside that is the role education plays in informing our worldview. Thankfully, in this era of seemingly-infinite content mediums available at our fingertips, ending body shaming, illuminating wealth’s role in the shaping of green spaces, and amplifying the voices of WOC throughout the wellness community and beyond has become all the more accessible.
      In celebration of the many folks doing the work of investigating these issues and educating all of us Everygirls out there, I rounded up my favorite podcasts, social media accounts, and books that not only inform and entertain but also are sure to fuel your fight for a more inclusive and equitable wellness world.

      In this article

      Podcasts to listen to

      Maintenance Phase
      If you ever come to me for a podcast rec (please do), this will, without fail, be the first one I enthusiastically share. I’ve gotten my friends, coworkers, family members, and even my partner to listen, and they can all attest: The addiction is real. Hosted by writer Aubrey Gordon (the once-anonymous author behind the SELF Magazine column “Your Fat Friend”) and journalist Michael Hobbes, the pair breaks down and exposes the “junk” science behind the dominating wellness trends (re: fads) of our day.
      A few seconds into your first episode and you’ll quickly discover that this is one of the most hilarious and well-researched podcasts available for download. Gordon and Hobbes take a discerning look at topics such as BMI, the keto diet, and plenty of diet book deep-dives. Each episode is conducted through the lens of wellness inclusivity, revealing telling looks at how marginalized groups are kept from these privileged approaches to health.

      Balanced Black Girl
      It was a year or so ago that I officially considered myself done with the misleading idea of balance. Everywhere I turned, social media told me that “balance” meant religiously keeping up with your 10-step skincare routine, waking up at 6 a.m. every day for a workout, and swearing off caffeine for life. Thankfully, folks like Les, the founder and host of the Balanced Black Girl, have spoken up and introduced a new understanding of balance—one that aligns with whatever the word means to you.
      Les has experience as a personal trainer and nutrition coach and can speak to the transformative impact of a sustainable approach to wellness. Trust me: This is more than a podcast. It’s an inclusive community and safe space that’s accepting of anyone who wants to ignite their wellness journey.

      I Weigh
      While social media often comes with a host of negative connotations and critiques, it can’t be denied that when a powerful, game-changing idea enters the chat, social media can amplify it in an instant. That’s exactly the case for Jameela Jamil, whose first post on the account @i_weigh went viral thanks to its radical valuation of women’s worth (hint: it’s not the number on the scale).
      Jamil promotes a critical look at the wellness industry and encourages us to adopt a gentler, more inclusive approach. Episodes discuss everything from sexism to navigating the acting world in the face of rampant ableism to the current abortion crisis. The conversations are vulnerable and enlightening. If you’re looking for a healthy dose of empowerment, subscribe now.

      She’s All Fat
      Described as “The podcast for fat activism, radical self-love, and chill vibes ONLY,” She’s All Fat was created to fill the need for a show that spoke to the intersections of fat visibility and the female, queer, and people of color experience. I’m always inspired by projects and initiatives that arise from a lack of representation, and She’s All Fat is definitely it. Even if you don’t exist in a larger body, it’s important that all shapes, sizes, colors, and backgrounds educate ourselves on how fatness has historically been treated in our culture, so that we can shift the script on the anti-fat bias.

      How to Love Your Body
      As someone a ways into her journey of eating disorder recovery, I know very well how an “interest” in wellness can quickly devolve into a full-on obsession. And though I’m doing the work to unwind the diet culture-influenced ideas of what health should look like, I’m always grateful for people who make me feel less alone in this process of unlearning. Enter: How to Love Your Body. The hosts break down key topics in the realm of self-love and acceptance, and they also provide actionable steps for how to adopt a “Health At Every Size” mindset. If you’re ready to dismantle the diet industry and gain a sense of belonging in an appearance-centric world, you’ll find your community here.

      Explorations
      Inspired by the belief that “humanizing people who are different from us is the beginning of connection and empathy,” Lola Ayodele created Explorations to reveal and shed light on the unique narratives that guide our lives. Each episode includes elements of relatability, while also illuminating the stories we couldn’t possibly know the details of ourselves. Start with the third episode, “Being Yourself,” for a roadmap on owning your authenticity and honoring that of others.

      Body Stuff with Jen Gunter
      As a self-described life-long learner, I’m always diving deep into the depths of TED’s many varied opportunities to explore new ideas. Dr. Jen Gunter recorded this podcast with the team from TED Audio Collective, so you already know you’re in for a treat. Similar to Maintenance Phase, this podcast jumps into the science behind some of the world’s biggest wellness trends. If you’re looking for a way to sift through the TikTok trends and get to the evidence and research-backed truths, press play. 

      Social media accounts to follow

      @thenutritiontea
      Like many of us on the ‘gram, I first caught wind of Shana Minei Spence’s work when it went viral at the beginning of the pandemic. And I’ll admit, when I came across her posts, I had no idea that some dietitians take a non-diet approach to their work (oh, how the times have changed). Her mostly text-based posts and Reels not only educate her 222K+ followers, but her work also aims to make nutrition less restrictive and more realistic. She often speaks to the emotions tied to what we eat, and how by developing a healthier relationship with the foods on our plate–we can experience true, whole-body health once and for all.

      @olivianoceda
      It wouldn’t be a hyperbole to write that I am truly, passionately OBSESSED with everything Olivia Noceda posts. She’s the sort of influencer whose gentle approach to wellness inspires how I want to spend each and every day. While the motivational “that girl” videos have, IMO, run their course, Olivia’s accessible recipes and easy-to-adopt routines inspire me to create opportunities for more joy and authenticity in my day. Her work is a reminder that while wellness can look like buying into the buzzy brands and trying each and every trend, it can also simply be about finding what works for you and letting that guide your way.

      @selfcareisapriority
      The handle says it all. Thankfully, we’ve come a long way to understanding self-care as not an indulgence but as a necessary practice for existing in an increasingly stressful world. Their posts offer relatable reminders that your productivity doesn’t define you, change is inevitable, and taking breaks is essential to thriving. If you want an account that tells you exactly what you need to hear, this is it.

      @emotions_therapy
      I’m here for any and all accounts that remind me that my worth has nothing to do with my physical appearance and that the time we put into our mental health is the most important work we’ll ever do. This account is a kaleidoscopic array of motivational and joy-inducing affirmations and is also the source of many of my wellness epiphanies. While the advice still stands to take regular breaks from your phone, you have my permission to scroll this page for hours.

      @beauty_redefined
      I only recently discovered this account, but my feed is all the better because of it. Twins Lexie and Lindsay (who both boast a Ph.D.) promote a critical look at how our appearance-obsessed culture has led to women seeing their bodies as the primary determinant of happiness and value. And while the body positivity movement has done a lot to rewrite this narrative, Lexie and Lindsay are adamant about getting to the root of the problem. My feelings, frustrations, and concerns about how women and girls are perceived in the world are validated and transformed with every post that comes across my screen. Lexie and Lindsay offer an important reminder that women are not—and have never been—the problem. 

      Books to read

      Aubrey Gordon
      What We Don’t Talk About When We Talk About Fat
      I can’t write about “Maintenance Phase” without highlighting Aubrey Gordon’s brilliant debut book. This book is the first that I’ve come across that not only illustrates the emotional and physical harm our cultural values of thinness have put on people in larger bodies, but it also reveals actionable ways we can shift our collective mindset and actively work toward supporting fat justice. Gordon’s writing brings awareness to how anti-fatness shows up in our everyday lives and points readers’ attention to the many ways our social systems fail fat people. 

      Alice Wong
      Disability Visibility: First-Person Stories from the Twenty-First Century
      When it comes to understanding the experience of individuals living with a disability, first-person reflections offer the most authentic accounts. This collection of original pieces ranges from blog posts to congressional testimonies (and every medium in between). While the stories reveal the bias and prejudice disabled folks often face, it’s adamant about celebrating the triumphs and multi-dimensional complexities of the disabled experience. Disability Visibility is a testament to the innovation, hope, and joy that comes with honoring our differences.

      Bessel van der Kolk M.D
      The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
      This is the book that literally everyone recommended before I finally got my hands on a copy. Though it was first published almost a decade ago, the wisdom, science, and revelations offered on each page endures. Trauma exists in many diverse ways, but regardless of the experience, its impact takes root in both the body and the mind, having an effect on everything from our ability to experience pleasure to our willingness to trust others. Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, an expert on trauma, dives into the scientific developments and treatments that support recovery and healing. Personally, this book offered me a new way to process trauma and encouraged empathy for others’ stories. 

      Blair Imani
      Read This to Get Smarter: about Race, Class, Gender, Disability & More
      What does it mean to be socially conscious? In the pages of Read This to Get Smarter, historian, educator, and author, Blair Imani, dives deep into this question, all the while revealing the role that education, awareness, and understanding all play in shaping a more equitable world. As I was reading the book, I appreciated how accessible the content is—the book makes no assumptions about how much you do or don’t know. It takes the intimidation out of diving into topics like intersectionality, gender, disability, and more, supporting you with the language to have the challenging but culture-shifting conversations we need to be a part of.

      Meghan O’Rourke
      The Invisible Kingdom: Reimagining Chronic Illness
      Esquire said it best when it called The Invisible Kingdom, “a rigorous work of scholarship and a radical act of empathy.” The best books do exactly that: educate while also engaging you in an emotional experience. And often, that’s the root of our ability to connect with others. Chronic illness and autoimmune disease have gained more visibility with the rise of social media, but still, little is understood about the nuances and specifics of the countless diseases that often go undiagnosed. And because many of these conditions present few symptoms, their obscurity is only perpetuated. Meghan O’Rourke’s research sheds new light on this health crisis, giving a voice to the populations and groups whose experiences are often underreported and underrepresented. 

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      5 Habits of the Happiest Women I Know

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      When it comes to seeking happiness, we fall into the trap that buying the next big item, taking a vacation, or getting a promotion will be what finally gives us the satisfaction we are looking for in life. Although today’s advertising makes a strong case for material items, happiness is not a tangible thing but a choice that we make every single day. And the happiest women I know are always choosing people, things, and situations that keep them feeling their best. If you’ve been searching for happiness in life, relationships, money–you name it–try adapting some of the habits ahead and watch how quickly your life brightens up. 

      1. They say “no” to things they don’t want to do without guilt
      We’ve all been there: Your friends are making plans to do something that sounds more like a chore than a good time, but the guilt of saying “no” feels worse than actually participating. If you find yourself doing things you don’t want to do simply because you don’t feel comfortable saying “no” or you experience major FOMO when your friends do something without you, it’s time to adopt a new way of thinking. The happiest women prioritize themselves by skipping any event, outing, or situation they don’t want to be a part of, and they do so without feeling bad. They don’t worry about whether or not others are hanging out and having fun without them because they don’t attribute their worth to their social presence. If you’re constantly doing things you don’t want to do, start practicing the art of “Thanks, but I’ll catch up with you later!” and see how much happier you become.

      2. They take care of themselves and prioritize their health
      While not everyone is a gym rat, runner, or health food connoisseur, staying active and living a healthy lifestyle are factors in our overall happiness. The happiest women I know stay well-rested, well-nourished, healthy, and hydrated because those things play a major role in mood. Getting movement in, eating healthy and nutritious food, keeping up with your mental health, and drinking plenty of water are all things that contribute to our overall wellbeing and happiness but are often pushed aside when we spend too much time being sedentary, drink too much alcohol, eat junk food, and put off doctors’ appointments. By prioritizing health and wellbeing, you can feel good inside and out.

      3. They don’t take things personally
      The happiest women I know rarely take anything too personally. If you often find yourself worried about whether someone is mad at you or overthinking something you did or said, it’s time to take a page out of the happiness playbook and start taking things way less personally. When someone gives them an attitude, the happiest women I know chalk it up to the person having a bad day, not because of something they did or said to upset them. If their friends don’t answer their calls, they assume it’s because their friend is busy, not because they’re mad at them. By adopting this “innocent until proven guilty” mindset, the happiest women I know are saving themselves a lot of unnecessary heartaches and hurt feelings. If you tend to take things personally, try reminding yourself that other people’s behavior is usually attributed to themselves, not to you. You’ll be happier in no time.

      4. They address their problems head on
      Uncomfortable conversations, tough days, and difficult situations may seem easier to avoid than deal with, but the happiest women I know don’t shy away from facing their problems. Whether sharing feelings with their partner or crossing off a major item from their to-do list, truly happy women conquer the things that would otherwise weigh on their minds. Running from problems doesn’t solve anything; happiness is the result of a truly calm mind. By addressing your problems head-on, you’ll spend less time dwelling on them and more time enjoying life. 

      5. They don’t compete with anyone but themselves
      Most importantly, the happiest women don’t compare themselves to others and aren’t in competition with anyone but themselves. With constant social media use, unrealistic beauty standards, and the constant pressure to do more, it’s no wonder we fall prey to the comparison game. However, the happiest women I know only strive to be better than they were yesterday. Instead of competing with the women around them, they use their successes as inspiration and celebrate them without jealousy. If feeling less-than is something you struggle with, try reframing your mindset and see how much more happiness you find in your life. 

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