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      8 hotspots in Dubai to get your creative juices flowing

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      1 hour ago

      If you’re stuck in the rut of the same routine every morning and need a break to get those creative juices flowing, we’re here to help.
      From stimulating discussions on though-provoking subjects to art galleries showcasing the world of notable artists, Dubai is never short of venues to feel rejuvenated.
      Whether you’re an art fanatic or enjoy taking part in various workshops, there’s enough and more to ensure, your skills are used and you can learn from the experts to simply take a break from your phone.
      So, to revamp your daily routine, here are the editor-approved creative spots to visit with exclusive programmes this month.
      TODA

      TODA is the UAE’s first 360° hub that strives to enrich the cultural landscape, combining art & technology. From classical masterpieces to various digital shows and wellness sessions, guests can art like never before with its various interpretations. This July, visitors can immerse themselves into the captivating world of traditional Japanese art, where stunning visuals come to life as the untold story of Van Gogh unfolds. To complement the experience, visitors can also partake in different traditional Japanese customs, including tea tasting, Ikebana masterclasses (the art of flower arrangement), and Haiku learning (a form of Japanese poetry). Located at Souk Madinat, Jumeirah, the ticket prices range from Dhs72 to Dhs350.
      For more information visit toda.ae
      Cinema Akil

      The fully-fledged arthouse cinema brings people from all around the world together to enjoy films ranging from classics to regional films. Being the GCC’s first arthouse cinema, it aims to create awareness and interest in film and the cinematic arts. Having opened its first permanent location in Al Quoz, Dubai, this platform showcases directors and filmmakers across the decades. It’s located in Warehouse 68. Ticket prices start at Dhs50 exclusive of VAT and can be purchased online, with movies focused on different themes each month. During the month of July until September 14, 2023, Cinema Akil is proudly showing 10 films of the most “Americanitalian” of all directors, Martin Scorsese. For a snack break, Project Chaiwala serves a variety of teas including their signature and Karak along with other dishes to indulge in during the show.
      For more information visit cinemaakil.com
      The Jam Jar

      If you want to unleash your inner Picasso, this is the place to visit. By contributing to Dubai’s art scene, The Jam Jar is a community arts space that engages audiences, promotes local artists, and supports the development of Dubai’s art scene through extensive art programmes, community projects and educational initiatives. By building a bridge between arts and education, this multi-functional space offers the region’s first DIY painting studio, which is accessible to people across different ages. It’s open from Monday to Thursday 10am to 7pm, Friday from 2pm to 8pm and Saturday from 10am to 7pm and is located in Unit H74. Canvas’ start at Dhs100 for the small one with supplies such as paintbrushes and paints to ensure visitors can embark on a creative journey as they switch off and paint.
      For more information visit thejamjardubai.com
      Jameel Arts Centre

      This independent institution is dedicated to exhibiting contemporary art. Positioned as a new creative destination in the city, and a hub for educational initiatives and cultural events, Jameel Arts Centre includes an open-access research library dedicated to artists and cultural movements of the Arab world, plus project and commissions spaces, a roof-top terrace, writer’s studio, members’ lounge, a chic café known as Teible along with a sculpture park.
      For more information visit jameelartscenter.org
      The Mud House

      Whether you’re an absolute beginner or a seasoned potter, there’s no end to pottery making at this one-of-a-kind studio. The experienced staff will take visitors through each step from centering and wedging to pulling and trimming for the wheel throwing class and they will guide you through each step of the process, from Pinching and Coiling to Slab Building and Slump Molding for the hand building class. Located in Warehouse No. 2 in Al Quoz Industrial 3, behind Dubai Garden Centre, it’s open from Tuesday 2pm to 8pm, Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 8pm and is closed on Monday. Prices for one single session start at Dhs210 per person.
      For more information visit mudhousestudio.com
      Paus; Wellness + Community

      This quaint wellness space offers a series of stimulation sessions on different thought-provoking topics each month. Known as Matcha Mornings and Chai Chats, guests can engage in conversations with different individuals to expand their understanding on each topic. This month, guests can explore the intriguing topic: ‘Optimist or Realist: Shaping Perspectives on Life’ on July 27, from 8-9pm and delve into the topic: ‘Ignorance is Bliss: Unveiling the Role of Ignorance in Personal Growth’ on on July 30, from 11am to 12pm. Each session is priced at Dhs35 per person and can be booked online along with a complimentary matcha.
      For more information visit pausdxb.com
      Oo La La

      In the mood for creating your own fragrance? Use the Oo Fragrance Table to select ingredients and build up your own fragrance formula. 1000’s unique olfactory combinations can be crafted. From workshops to collaborations with luxury fashion brands, Oo La Lab hosts several sensorial workshop sessions for people to enjoy with friends, family or even alone. Located in Warehouse 58, it’s open from Wednesday to Sunday 12pm to 7pm. The candle mixology workshops are priced at Dhs400 per person and the fragrance design and mixology group session is priced at Dhs400.
      For more information visit oola-lab.com
      ICD Brookfield

      For a glimpse into the eclectic artwork of Palestinian-American artist Lena Kassicieh, , ICD Brookfield Place will be hosting a series of pop-up events in collaboration with its restaurants. Guests can immerse themselves in a world of colour, enchantment and joyful visuals as Kassicieh’s masterpieces take centrer stage. To celebrate this extraordinary art exhibition participants such as Josette, Lulu & The Beanstalk and La Niña will be featured as a pop-up space offering a unique and fun F&B experience along with summer inspired games. The unforgettable experience is hosted at Josette on July 27, 2023 from 6pm onwards, August 3, 2023 at Lulu & the Beanstalk from 6pm onwards and at La Niña on August 10 from 6:00PM onwards. All walk-ins are accepted and no prior booking is required.
      For more information visit ICDbrookfieldplace.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @_banankaa More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      7 hotspots in Dubai to get your creative juices flowing

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      9 hours ago

      If you’re stuck in the rut of the same routine every morning and need a break to get those creative juices flowing, we’re here to help.
      From stimulating discussions on though-provoking subjects to art galleries showcasing the world of notable artists, Dubai is never short of venues to feel rejuvenated.
      Whether you’re an art fanatic or enjoy taking part in various workshops, there’s enough and more to ensure, your skills are used and you can learn from the experts to simply take a break from your phone.
      So, to revamp your daily routine, here are the editor-approved creative spots to visit with exclusive programmes this month.
      TODA

      TODA is the UAE’s first 360° hub that strives to enrich the cultural landscape, combining art & technology. From classical masterpieces to various digital shows and wellness sessions, guests can art like never before with its various interpretations. This July, visitors can immerse themselves into the captivating world of traditional Japanese art, where stunning visuals come to life as the untold story of Van Gogh unfolds. To complement the experience, visitors can also partake in different traditional Japanese customs, including tea tasting, Ikebana masterclasses (the art of flower arrangement), and Haiku learning (a form of Japanese poetry). Located at Souk Madinat, Jumeirah, the ticket prices range from Dhs72 to Dhs350.
      For more information visit toda.ae
      Cinema Akil

      The fully-fledged arthouse cinema brings people from all around the world together to enjoy films ranging from classics to regional films. Being the GCC’s first arthouse cinema, it aims to create awareness and interest in film and the cinematic arts. Having opened its first permanent location in Al Quoz, Dubai, this platform showcases directors and filmmakers across the decades. It’s located in Warehouse 68. Ticket prices start at Dhs50 exclusive of VAT and can be purchased online, with movies focused on different themes each month. During the month of July until September 14, 2023, Cinema Akil is proudly showing 10 films of the most “Americanitalian” of all directors, Martin Scorsese. For a snack break, Project Chaiwala serves a variety of teas including their signature and Karak along with other dishes to indulge in during the show.
      For more information visit cinemaakil.com
      The Jam Jar

      If you want to unleash your inner Picasso, this is the place to visit. By contributing to Dubai’s art scene, The Jam Jar is a community arts space that engages audiences, promotes local artists, and supports the development of Dubai’s art scene through extensive art programmes, community projects and educational initiatives. By building a bridge between arts and education, this multi-functional space offers the region’s first DIY painting studio, which is accessible to people across different ages. It’s open from Monday to Thursday 10am to 7pm, Friday from 2pm to 8pm and Saturday from 10am to 7pm and is located in Unit H74. Canvas’ start at Dhs100 for the small one with supplies such as paintbrushes and paints to ensure visitors can embark on a creative journey as they switch off and paint.
      For more information visit thejamjardubai.com
      Jameel Arts Centre

      This independent institution is dedicated to exhibiting contemporary art. Positioned as a new creative destination in the city, and a hub for educational initiatives and cultural events, Jameel Arts Centre includes an open-access research library dedicated to artists and cultural movements of the Arab world, plus project and commissions spaces, a roof-top terrace, writer’s studio, members’ lounge, a chic café known as Teible along with a sculpture park.
      For more information visit jameelartscenter.org
      The Mud House

      Whether you’re an absolute beginner or a seasoned potter, there’s no end to pottery making at this one-of-a-kind studio. The experienced staff will take visitors through each step from centering and wedging to pulling and trimming for the wheel throwing class and they will guide you through each step of the process, from Pinching and Coiling to Slab Building and Slump Molding for the hand building class. Located in Warehouse No. 2 in Al Quoz Industrial 3, behind Dubai Garden Centre, it’s open from Tuesday 2pm to 8pm, Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 8pm and is closed on Monday. Prices for one single session start at Dhs210 per person.
      For more information visit mudhousestudio.com
      Paus; Wellness + Community

      This quaint wellness space offers a series of stimulation sessions on different thought-provoking topics each month. Known as Matcha Mornings and Chai Chats, guests can engage in conversations with different individuals to expand their understanding on each topic. This month, guests can explore the intriguing topic: ‘Optimist or Realist: Shaping Perspectives on Life’ on July 27, from 8-9pm and delve into the topic: ‘Ignorance is Bliss: Unveiling the Role of Ignorance in Personal Growth’ on on July 30, from 11am to 12pm. Each session is priced at Dhs35 per person and can be booked online along with a complimentary matcha.
      For more information visit pausdxb.com
      Oo La La

      In the mood for creating your own fragrance? Use the Oo Fragrance Table to select ingredients and build up your own fragrance formula. 1000’s unique olfactory combinations can be crafted. From workshops to collaborations with luxury fashion brands, Oo La Lab hosts several sensorial workshop sessions for people to enjoy with friends, family or even alone. Located in Warehouse 58, it’s open from Wednesday to Sunday 12pm to 7pm. The candle mixology workshops are priced at Dhs400 per person and the fragrance design and mixology group session is priced at Dhs400.
      For more information visit oola-lab.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @_banankaa More

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      Dubai’s most expensive ultra-luxury hotel is set to open in 2027

      by

      Life by Sarah Joseph 4 mins ago Known for some of the most staggering man-made structures on the planet, Dubai is often regarded as the city of opulence and what better city than here for Aman to expand. All set to bring the revered experience of peace and sanctuary to the heart of UAE, Aman is carving a niche with its ultra-luxury property The property will will occupy a prestigious shoreline setting with an expansive private beach. Encompassing an all-suite hotel, Aman Dubai will also feature a limited number of Aman branded residences, an extensive Aman Spa over 2,000 sqm in size, several choices of restaurants, as well as an exclusive Aman Club. Speaking about the pipeline and his vision for growth, Vlad Doronin, Chairman and CEO of Aman, said: “ Securing the optimal site was paramount to ensure the delivery of our unparallelled service and authentic experiences, for which we are world-renowned.” By drawing inspiration from the region’s cultural heritage, the design features local stone in a palette of desert tones and connects subterranean spaces and courtyards to extensive sublime gardens that descend to the beach and extend to private living spaces. “We are thrilled to bring the first Aman to Dubai. Aman is a leading lifestyle brand inspired by providing a seamless level of service and experience that is known worldwide. The brand’s vision aligns with our strategy to bring exceptional experiences to the city,” said Shahab Lutfi, CEO of Bright Start. ” With unobstructed panoramic views of the azure water and Dubai’s skyline, the property will have a prime coastal position on Jumeirah Beach. Overall, the UAE continues to be a the UAE is a perennial favourite and not just because of its not-quite-long-haul flight time from almost any part of the world. More details regarding this to-be-added property on Aman’s portfolio will be revealed with time. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied More

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      in health and weelbeing

      Fall Asleep Faster With These 7 Hacks For Better Sleep

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      20 Minutes. That’s all that stands between feeling exhausted and the best sleep ever. It’s also how much more sleep a woman needs than the average man, according to professional James Horne, a leading sleep expert in the UK.A good night’s sleep is kind of like an orgasm – you have friends who experience it on the reg, your guy gets it right every night and you’ve only managed it a couple of times over the past few months. Sleep deprivation affects women more than men… fact! We sleep lighter and find it more difficult to go back to dreamland once we wake up. So, what gives? Well, turns out that your daytime habits and your pre-sleep routine could be to blame. So, if you’re keen on catching a little more shut-eye tonight, start by making these easy changes to fall asleep faster.

      Fall asleep faster with these hacks

      Start bright

      Within five minutes of waking, try to expose yourself to sunlight for 30 minutes to give your brain the “It’s morning!” signal, says sleep specialist Clete Kushida. If it’s still way before sunrise, turn on a bright light to simulate sunlight as closely as possible. Getting exposure to light as soon as you wake up sends important signals in the body. It regulates your body’s internal clock – called the circadian rhythm – and suppresses melatonin while boosting cortisol levels. In this case, cortisol isn’t the demon we make it out to be, but rather helps wake up the body and allows you to become alert.

      See the light

      Once you’re seeing the light, continue to bask in it. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found office workers who scored natural light during the day got an average of 46 minutes more sleep per night than daylight-deprived colleagues. That’s because being exposed to sunlight signals to the body that it’s time to be alert and awake. As the day wears on, lower your exposure to sunlight as you signal to your body that it’s time to slow down.

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

      Hit the weights

      Any resistance exercise you do, whether it’s at 7 am or 7 pm, will reduce the number of times you wake up during the night, according to a study in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. In a review of research in Sleep Medicine Review, researchers found that “resistance exercise training improves anxiety and depression” – which makes sense since these conditions can keep us up at night. Moreover, they found that when compared to aerobic exercise (the kind that pumps your heart rate), resistance workouts scored higher for sleep. One theory is that weight training boosts growth hormone and testosterone in the body, which is in turn linked to better sleep.

      Save carbs for dinner

      The insulin spike you get from eating foods such as brown rice, sweet potato or pasta may help you fall asleep faster, says research published in the journal Cell Reports. That’s because carbs increase the levels of a hormone called tryptophan, which works in the brain to produce serotonin (your happiness hormone) and melatonin (the sleep hormone). Have a portion with dinner to help you fall asleep faster when bedtime rolls around.

      Play your soundtrack

      To set the stage for sleep, play a slow jam – songs with a continuous rhythm of around 60bpm, which sync up with your resting heart rate, says therapeutic practitioner Lyz. And it doesn’t have to be Enya – try Coldplay’s “Strawberry Swing” or Beyoncé’s “Flaws and All”. Per the popular sleep app Calm, there’s a plethora of sounds that signal the body to wind down. That includes white noise, ocean waves, rain, nature sounds and sleep stories. By creating a sense of peacefulness, you allow the body to enter rest mode and can fall asleep faster.

      READ MORE: We Tried Morphée: A Screen-Free Sleep Device To Help You Actually Doze Off

      Find your calm

      Women who had hypnosis got up to 80 percent more deep Zs in a study by the University of Zurich in Switzerland. Try this from hypnotherapist Dr John McGrail: sit with palms on thighs. Raise your index finger and imagine it getting lighter. Lower it as you silently count down from five then think “deep sleep”. You could also try meditation apps or sleep-time podcasts to lull your body into a sense of calm and fall asleep.

      Banish glare

      If you must watch a series in bed, set your gadget’s brightness to the lowest possible level. U.S. research shows that the light from computer, tablet and smartphone screens suppresses melatonin. Use an app like f.lux, which filters out blue light from your device, or wear blue-light-blocking glasses, which helps.

      READ MORE: The Greatest Sleepytime Products That’ll Take You To La-La Land, STAT More

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      Artist Lauren Baker on creating a captivating installation for Kintsugi Space

      by

      Discover the transformative power of Kintsugi Space, Abu Dhabi’s pioneering women-only sanctuary, where renowned wellness practitioners and artists converge to celebrate the art of healing and renewal, highlighted by Lauren Baker’s captivating installation. In an exclusive interview with Emirates Woman, Lauren discusses the captivating installation “Letter From The Universe” in depth. What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? The first 30 minutes of my day is a sacred ritual. A mindful start serves as the foundation for the creative energies that will unfold throughout the day. I often start with drinking my greens supplements and a brief meditation. Then I take myPomeranian puppy called PomPom, with an Earl Grey tea, for a short stroll. Being with nature gives me so much inspiration and grounding. I do a few yoga stretches and some Kundalini breathing and then I enjoy a blast of cold before a warm showeram then on my way to the studio. The reality is that this doesn’t happen every day as my work can be all-consuming with longhours, yet I aim to maintain my ideal routine as best I can – it’s the little things that make life beautiful. Can you talk us through your career journey? My early years were marked by a fascination with the interplay of light and shadow, and the intricate dance of energy that permeates our existence. My degree is in Business, Psychology and Sociology, then as soon as I had the epiphany that I was an artist (whilst in the Amazon jungle) I did an intensive master’s in mosaics in 2011 and then studied Site Specific Sculpture in 2017. However, it was during my travels around the world in which I was inspired by diverse cultures, spiritual practises, and the natural world, I began to infuse my work with a sense of transcendence and interconnectedness. My art became a conduit for exploring the invisible threads that bind us all. Some highlights include exhibiting at the most prestigious institutions including the Tate Modern, V+A, and Tate Britain. As my portfolio grew, so did the recognition of my work on a global scale. My most meaningful work was my first ‘Letter To Mother Earth’ at Tate Modern, which involved a ten-metre letter as an open apology to nature on behalf of humanity. I was commissioned to create two large-scale public installations in the UNESCO-protected desert in AlUla, Saudi Arabia inspired by the Sun and the Moon, and the most exciting to date is the recent 25-metre ‘Letter From The Universe’ at Kintsugi Space in Abu Dhabi. The 25-metre letter sculpture at Kintsugi is truly inspiring. Can you share more about the creative process? The initial spark of inspiration emerged from the concept of being one with the universe and receiving a message from a higher realm of consciousness. I meditated and wrote a special letter and recorded the frequency of my voice into sound waves, before creating the sculpture and, painstakingly, painting gold sound waves across both sides of the 25-metre letter, over a period of a year. The installation involved slowly pulling the letter up using a winch system, traversing seven staircases. The moments of securing the sculpture to the ceiling, 25 metres up on elaborate scaffolding, were intense. I was in the zone with my team and Donna from Studio Feel, and I forgot to breathe at that point, letting out a sigh of relief as it went perfectly to plan. It was worth the challenge to see the piece suspended and I took delight in seeing the 360-degree views that the staircase provides. It has a feeling of infinity as you gaze to appreciate it cascading all the way to the floor. The activation of energies from the seven chakras and the focus on inner peace are intriguing aspects of your sculpture. Could you elaborate on this? The content of the letter is an activation of the energies of the seven chakras and our collective higher purpose of harnessing inner peace, as well as inspiring peace within the world. Our first responsibility is to seek peace within ourselves, then we offer it to others. The letter was created as an activation to cultivate mindfulness, balance, gratitude, happiness, inspiration and ultimately peace. Universal frequencies contained within the letter form an energetic code, exploring energies from the seven chakras and expressing the internal journey that can lead one to fulfilment, peace and light. How did you ensure that your artwork resonated with Kintsugi’s values and the overall vision for the holistic space? Creating artwork for Kintsugi Space, with its deep commitment to wellbeing, spirituality, and aesthetic harmony, was a profoundly enriching experience. The installation needed to seamlessly integrate with the spa’s ambience. I drew inspiration from the spa’s design elements, such as the use of natural materials, soothing colour palettes, and minimalist yet elegant aesthetics. In terms of wellbeing, my artwork became an extension of Kintsugi’s commitment to nurturing the mind, body, and soul. The calm colours and flowing gold text create a visual sanctuary within the space. The piece was designed as a catalyst for relaxation and introspection, contributing to the overall wellbeing experience of the visitors. With its spiritual abstract message and its enormity in scale, the artwork aims to evoke a sense of transcendence and connection to a higher, more profound dimension. Your artistic practice explores symbolism, higher realms of consciousness, and nature. How do these themes play a role in shaping this installation? Sound wave symbolism formed the core of the installation, transforming the large letter into a vessel of meaning. As a symbol of communication, the letter became a channel for a profound conversation, expressing universal messages and interconnected energies. It wove a story that went beyond its literal form, inviting viewers to engage with the cosmic language it held. Inspired by higher realms of consciousness, the installation aimed to provide a transcendent experience. The immense size of the letter sought to create a feeling of expansiveness, urging viewers to look beyond the ordinary and connect with their higher consciousness. The design of the letter incorporated natural forms and textures, mirroring patterns found in the natural world. The 25-metre letter metaphorically served as a gateway, encouraging individuals to transcend their immediate surroundings and connect with the vast universe. Collaborating with Studio Feel adds another layer to the project. Could you share more about this? Donna Tzelepis, the visionary behind Studio Feel, has been an absolute joy to work with. Her passion for art and dedicationto curating a space that speaks to the soul is infectious. The unique approach of focusing on women-only artists brings a distinct perspective to the project. It’s a celebration of the diverse voices, stories, and artistic expressions that women bring to the table. This intentional curation not only fosters a sense of inclusivity but also adds a layer of empowerment to the overall narrative of the installation. With both Kintsugi, Studio Feel and I had a beautiful alignment of visions. The two-year timeline of the project speaks to the commitment and dedication invested in its realisation. Creating site-specific art at 25 metres above the ground involves a lot of health safety and preparation so the collaborative journey becomes an integral part of the artistic process. The commissioned artwork aims to cultivate mindfulness, balance, gratitude, happiness, inspiration, and peace. How do you envision visitors experiencing this? Envisioning how visitors will experience and interact with the piece involves creating a multi-sensory journey. The sheer scale of the 25-metre letter draws attention, immediately prompting a sense of mindfulness, encouraging viewers to be present at the moment. The symbolism within the letter, coupled with the curated soundscape of my voice revealing the message, infuses the space with an aura of gratitude and joy. The message is an invitation for visitors to embark on an inward journey. The soundscape reveals a message of truth and higher purpose, and acts as a meditative anchor, envelopingthe space with a sense of peace. The installation invites introspection and connection with a higher purpose. Each visitor becomes an active participant in this experience, finding moments of reflection, inspiration, and connection within the layers of messages in “Letter From The Universe”. Kintsugi Space embraces imperfections, believing they lead to strength, beauty, and resilience. How does your artwork embody or reflect these values? The powerful message within the artwork aligns with Kintsugi’s philosophy, emphasising the transformative nature of imperfection. References to the “energetic code” and “internal journeying” support the idea that imperfections can bring about positive change. The mention of one’s “personal map” recognises life’s imperfect paths, turning them into valuable lessons. Inviting chakra energy centres to unravel symbolises releasing imperfections, aligning with the spa’s belief in inner harmony. The idea of spiralling in a dance with the divine suggests imperfections are essential elements in the journey to alignment. “Letter From The Universe” embodies Kintsugi values, portraying imperfections as a source of transformation and enlightenment. This is The Authenticity Issue – what does being authentic mean to you? As an artist working on themes of symbolism, spirituality and the higher realms of consciousness, in the public eye, being authentic is important. It involves a willingness to be vulnerable and open about my creative process, inspirations, and the challenges faced along the way. It involves staying true to the essence of the themes explored, even when faced with external expectations or trends. Authenticity acknowledges that the artistic journey, like life, is imperfect. It involves an ongoing commitment to self-discovery, vulnerability, and the sincere expression of profound themes. It involves embracing the ebb and flow of creativity, acknowledging mistakes, and finding beauty in the imperfections. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied More

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      in health and weelbeing

      How To Actually Get Better At Talking To Yourself

      by

      We’re all probably guilty of entertaining the negative voices in our heads in the midst of a situation where things aren’t exactly going our way. Whether you’ve missed a deadline on your assignment, dropped off the kids late for school, made a lacklustre supper or messed up a job interview, no situation is ever that grand for anyone to talk harshly to themselves.

      Ask yourself this question? How often are you polite to others as opposed to the number of times you bash yourself when things go wrong?

      “When it comes to our inner dialogue, a.k.a. self-talk, what we say to ourselves is often careless, critical, and even cruel. And while we may not think much of it, that self-talk is powerful and has more of an effect on our mental well-being than we realise,” explains psychologist Maya Rutstein, also a product architect for digital wellbeing platform, soSerene.

      Quick recap: Self-talk is the inner voice that houses the beliefs we hold about ourselves. It shapes our perception of the world and personal reality, therefore influencing our emotional, psychological and physical well-being.

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

      The Origins Of Self-Talk

      “There are many factors that influence our inner voice during the course of our lives,” explains Rutstein. “It starts early on. Our past experiences and upbringing play a significant role in shaping what our inner voice sounds like. Interactions we have and feedback we receive early in life shape our self-perception into adulthood.” She adds that social comparisons play a major role, too.

      “When we compare ourselves to others and find ourselves wanting, this can lead to negative self-talk. Often this is exacerbated by social media, because we’re comparing our whole lives to carefully curated snapshots of other people’s lives,” says Rutstein.

      Cultural, societal and family expectations can also set standards that individuals strive to meet, influencing self-criticism or encouragement. For example, when family members expect you to have ticked off certain milestones (such as marriage, children or buying a house) by a certain age, you may start to feel like a failure if you haven’t met their expectations. Personal achievements and failures can directly impact self-talk, too, with successes boosting positive self-dialogue and failures often leading to negative self-talk.

      READ MORE: Enjoy Your Downtime (Without Feeling Guilty) In 3 Easy Steps

      Positive Self-Talk For The Win

      When self-talk is positive, it can have a wide range of positive effects on our lives – from how we feel to how we show up in the world. People with a positive inner dialogue tend to be more confident, more productive and happier. “Have you ever felt frustrated because someone with less technical ability than you got promoted and you didn’t? Or that someone else built a successful business off an idea that you also had but didn’t have the guts to pursue?” asks Rutstein. “That’s self-talk at work.”

      “Positive self-talk enhances mental well-being by reducing stress and anxiety and fostering a positive outlook on life. That optimism makes the other person believe that the business idea will be a success, making them more inclined to pursue it,” shares Rutstein. Positive self-talk also boosts self-confidence and self-esteem, empowering individuals to tackle challenges and pursue goals. Rather than being held back by self-doubt, the person believes that they are the one who should pursue the idea and turn it into a business.

      “Positive self-talk encourages resilience, enabling individuals to recover more quickly from setbacks and maintain motivation. This emboldens the person to take the risk of starting the business, because even if it doesn’t work out, they’ll bounce back and try something else. Positive self-talk can even improve physical health. It has been linked to lower stress levels, better immune function, and better overall wellbeing,” explains Rutstein.

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

      Why Negative Self-Talk Is A Definite ‘No’

      Unfortunately, as powerful as positive self-talk can be for improving the overall quality of our lives, negative self-talk can be just as powerful – but in a destructive way. Unchecked, it can lead to mental health issues such as chronic stress, anxiety, depression and low self-esteem, as well as exacerbate physical ailments.

      “Negative self-talk can result in a defeatist attitude towards goals and aspirations, hindering personal and professional growth. If you’ve ever given up on something before you even tried because you expected the worst, that was negative self-talk in action,” says Rutstein. She adds that it can also strain relationships by projecting insecurities and negativity onto interactions with others. “When you feel bad about yourself, you may enter social interactions defensively. This may cause you to misinterpret what other people say or do as an attack because that’s what you’re expecting,” says Rutstein.

      A classic example is when someone says, “You did well today,” but what you hear is, “You did well today for a change because you’re usually incompetent.” That, right there, is negative self-talk causing you to perceive a compliment as an insult.

      READ MORE: TikTok’s Loud Budgeting Trend Is What Your Wallet Needs In 2024, Say Financial Experts

      How To Show Up For Yourself

      Per Rutstein, if you typically engage in negative self-talk, the good news is that it’s totally possible to rewire your brain with these five easy steps:

      Practise mindfulness: Caught yourself feeling bad that the person on the treadmill next to you is running so much faster? Instead, think about how well you did by making it to the gym in the first place – and how many excuses could have held you back, but didn’t. Become aware of negative self-talk as it occurs. Acknowledge these thoughts without judgment and gently redirect your focus to more positive or neutral thoughts.

      Challenge your own negative thoughts: Question the validity of negative self-assessments and replace them with positive affirmations instead. Thinking about how you’re definitely going to mess up your job interview? Focus on all the reasons why you’re actually the best candidate for the position.

      Gratitude journalling: Regularly write down things you are grateful for or proud of about yourself. This can help shift focus from negative to positive aspects.

      Surround yourself with positive influences: Engage with supportive friends, family and content that uplifts you, reducing exposure to negativity that can feed into self-criticism.

      Set small, achievable goals: Accomplishing even little goals (making your bed every morning; not snoozing the alarm) can boost your sense of efficacy and foster a more positive dialogue about your capabilities and achievements.

      As a parting shot, we invite you to reflect on these words from author Brianna Wiest‘s book When You’re Ready, This Is How You Heal: “What if cleansing your mind with hopeful, joyful, positive thoughts is the rebalancing that’s been long overdue, after so many years of existing solely on the most negative interpretations you could come up with?” More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      You can now visit La Prairie’s first longevity hub in Dubai

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      Life by Sarah Joseph 9 mins ago As embark on more wellness activities this year, One&Only One Za’abeel is now home to Clinique La Prairie’s (CLP) first Longevity Hub in the UAE. Born to address the daily stresses of urban living, the brand’s signature offerings include preventive medicine, nutrition, wellness and health. Visitors can opt for minimally invasive cosmetic procedures – including mesotherapy, hyaluronic acid, botox, laser and platelet-rich plasma – as well as Neuro Wave Stimulation, cryotherapy, far-infrared, IV drips, and immersive experiences that promote balance and a detox from the inside-out. This state-of-the-art facility features a dynamic surrounding which is spread over three floors within the complex, embodies a holistic approach through three interconnected pillars: longevity, well-being and aesthetics. The Hub comprises 29 rooms dedicated to treatments and therapies, along with a Movement Studio, gym facilities, a Longevity Bar and a Longevity Index lounge. “This partnership exemplifies the convergence of cutting-edge wellbeing practices and unparalleled luxury. In a world where the pursuit of longevity is often driven by trends and fads, we distinguish ourselves by offering exclusive, science-backed destinations,” said Simone Gibertoni, CEO of Clinique La Prairie. The Longevity Hub in the United Arab Emirates, the fifth of its kind, is a precious addition to a constellation of existing hubs in Madrid, Bangkok, Doha and Taipei. So, if you’re looking to get booked in visit oneandonlyresorts.com/one-zaabeel – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @ooonezaabeel More

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      in health and weelbeing

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

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

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

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

      What You Do In Bed Matters

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

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

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

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

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

      Bed Rotting Done Right?

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

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

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

      READ MORE: 20 Fitness Apps To Kickstart Your Wellness Journey

      A Problematic Title, Maybe?

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