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    How I got my job as… Founder of this UAE-based wellness studio

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    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    18 mins ago

    This week we chat with Adrienne Everett, an international yoga instructor and founder of HWH Studio in Dubai. This luxury boutique Yoga, Pilates and Wellness space offers visitors an immersive experience to switch off in solitude.
    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.
    Having recently opened in Dubai’s new Delano hotel, this space is crafted to be an oasis of calm and inspiration, offering a curated selection of classes, treatments, and experiences designed to nurture the body, mind, and soul. Our new studio is a seamless blend of Delano’s iconic elegance and our commitment to holistic well-being, providing guests and visitors with an environment where luxury and wellness harmonise.
    To delve into her story further, Emirates Woman spoke to Everett to see how it all began.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    Definitely English. I loved exploring stories, writing, and diving into creativity. It felt like a playground for my imagination.

    What was your first job?
    I worked as an Equity Derivatives Sales Trader on Wall Street right out of college—intense, exhilarating, and such a great foundation for understanding business.
    What brought you to Dubai?
    The mega wellness opportunity. Dubai is a hub of innovation and growth, and I knew it was the perfect place to expand and evolve in the wellness space.

    What inspired you to enter the space and your brand?
    It was all about finding my purpose. I wanted to create a brand that magnifies my passion for getting people to the mat and connecting with their inner selves. That obsession with movement and mindfulness drives everything I do.
    Talk us through the concept.
    HWH is more than a space; it’s a connection, a community, and a sanctuary. It’s a place where people can come as they are, feel seen, and leave feeling more like themselves.
    What are the key elements of your role?
    Connecting with people, curating transformative experiences, and cheerleading—whether that’s my team, students, or the broader community. It’s about lifting everyone up.
    Talk us through your daily routine.
    Every day looks a little different, and I love that. But the constants are the mat—it’s my anchor—and carving out moments to read, write, and flow. The flexibility of working for myself allows me to find joy in each day’s unique rhythm.
    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    Have a clear vision and flow into it. Stay grounded in your purpose but flexible in your approach.
    Tell us more about the services.
    We offer yoga, Pilates, and all things elevated wellness. It’s about creating transformative experiences that go beyond the physical—mind, body, and soul alignment.
    What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
    “It must be fun.” If you’re not enjoying the journey, it’s time to reevaluate.

    And what is the worst?
    “Go with the flow.” Purpose and intentionality are key—sometimes you need to swim upstream to get where you’re meant to be.
    What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
    Accepting that I can’t do everything. Delegating and leaning on my team has been a huge growth point for me.
    What lies ahead for the brand?
    We’re focused on transforming more spaces and connecting people globally through the mat. The mission is to create a worldwide ripple effect of wellness, connection, and transformation.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @hippiewhohustles More

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      9 effective techniques that will help you manage stress

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      1 min ago

      Looking to start 2024 on a positive note? Practice these 9 stress reduction techniques to kick-start your wellness journey.
      Deep Breathing

      Practise diaphragmatic breathing to reduce stress. Deep breaths increase oxygen flow, promoting skin cell regeneration and improving overall skin health. Try breathing in for a count of 4 and out for a count of 6 to activate the parasympathetic nervous system.
      Meditation
      Engage in mindfulness meditation to calm the mind. Reduced stress levels can prevent skin issues like acne and eczema, promoting a healthier complexion. An app such as Calm or Superhuman will help guide you.
      Yoga

      Incorporate yoga into your routine for physical and mental relaxation. Poses such as a Child’s Pose enhance blood circulation, aiding nutrient delivery to the skin.
      Hydration

      Stay adequately hydrated as it supports skin elasticity and texture. Dehydration can contribute to stress, impacting skin health negatively. Electrolytes play a huge part in keeping you hydrated, we love Humantra.
      Nature Walks

      Spend time in nature to reduce cortisol levels. Fresh air and green surroundings contribute to a sense of calm, positively impacting skin health.
      Sleep Quality
      Prioritise quality sleep for skin rejuvenation. During deep sleep, the body repairs and regenerates cells, contributing to a radiant complexion and overall wellbeing.Try to stick to the same bed time and wake time as this supports an optimal circadian rhythm. Morning light is also important as is not eating before bed and having 30 minutes to 1 our without screentime before you go to bed.
      Aromatherapy
      Use calming scents like lavender or chamomile to relax. Aromatherapy can reduce stress-related skin issues and promote a soothing environment, try Aromatherapy Associates.
      Digital Detox
      Limit screen time to mitigate stress. Constant exposure to screens can contribute to skin problems, taking breaks and limiting social media fosters relaxation.
      Art & Creativity
      Engage in artistic activities as a form of expression. Creating art can be therapeutic, reducing stress and promoting a healthy mindset that reflects on the skin.
      December – The Winter Escape Issue with Rolls Royce  – 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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      in lifestyle and culture

      9 effective techniques that will equip you better to manage stress

      by

      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      1 hour ago

      Looking to start 2024 on a positive note? Practice these 9 stress reduction techniques to kick-start your wellness journey.
      Deep Breathing

      Practise diaphragmatic breathing to reduce stress. Deep breaths increase oxygen flow, promoting skin cell regeneration and improving overall skin health. Try breathing in for a count of 4 and out for a count of 6 to activate the parasympathetic nervous system.
      Meditation
      Engage in mindfulness meditation to calm the mind. Reduced stress levels can prevent skin issues like acne and eczema, promoting a healthier complexion. An app such as Calm or Superhuman will help guide you.
      Yoga

      Incorporate yoga into your routine for physical and mental relaxation. Poses such as a Child’s Pose enhance blood circulation, aiding nutrient delivery to the skin.
      Hydration

      Stay adequately hydrated as it supports skin elasticity and texture. Dehydration can contribute to stress, impacting skin health negatively. Electrolytes play a huge part in keeping you hydrated, we love Humantra.
      Nature Walks

      Spend time in nature to reduce cortisol levels. Fresh air and green surroundings contribute to a sense of calm, positively impacting skin health.
      Sleep Quality
      Prioritise quality sleep for skin rejuvenation. During deep sleep, the body repairs and regenerates cells, contributing to a radiant complexion and overall wellbeing.Try to stick to the same bed time and wake time as this supports an optimal circadian rhythm. Morning light is also important as is not eating before bed and having 30 minutes to 1 our without screentime before you go to bed.
      Aromatherapy
      Use calming scents like lavender or chamomile to relax. Aromatherapy can reduce stress-related skin issues and promote a soothing environment, try Aromatherapy Associates.
      Digital Detox
      Limit screen time to mitigate stress. Constant exposure to screens can contribute to skin problems, taking breaks and limiting social media fosters relaxation.
      Art & Creativity
      Engage in artistic activities as a form of expression. Creating art can be therapeutic, reducing stress and promoting a healthy mindset that reflects on the skin.
      December – The Winter Escape Issue with Rolls Royce  – 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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      in fitness and body

      The Best Yoga Flow For Relaxation

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      Who’s ready for a quick 2-minute relaxation sesh? Pick me! It’s that time of year when burnout, stress and end-of-year blues creep in. If you’re struggling with focus or feeling overwhelmed, this yoga flow is exactly what you need to unwind. Woosah!Time: 2 minutesEquipment: Yoga matGood for: RelaxationInstructions: Flow from one pose to the next. Complete the yoga flow as many times as you’d like. You can also hold each pose for more than one breath, to make the flow a bit longer.Crocodile PoseHow to: Lie on your stomach with your legs extended and spread slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Fold your arms on the ground in front of you, and place your forehead on your arms. Stay here for one breath, then move to the next pose.Cat-Cow PoseHow to: Come onto all fours, into a tabletop position with your hands directly under your shoulders, knees below your hips. As you inhale, lift your head and your tailbone as you arch your spine down and open your chest up, coming into cow pose. Then exhale, tuck your tailbone, curl your spine, and lower your head into cat pose. Go back and forth three times, then continue to the next pose.Child’s PoseHow to: From all fours in a tabletop position, inhale and bend your knees, bringing your butt back onto your heels. Keep your arms extended in front of you. Stay here for one breath, then move to the next pose.READ MORE: Consider This Yoga HIIT Workout A Total-Body ShredCat-Cow PoseHow to: Come back onto all fours, into a tabletop position with your hands directly under your shoulders, knees below your hips. As you inhale, lift your head and your tailbone as you arch your spine down and open your chest up, coming into cow pose. Then exhale, tuck your tailbone, curl your spine, and lower your head into cat pose. Go back and forth three times, then continue to the next pose.Child’s PoseHow to: From all fours in a tabletop position, inhale and bend your knees, bringing your butt back onto your heels. Keep your arms extended in front of you. Stay here for one breath, then move to the next pose.Upward DogHow to: From a low hover position, extend your arms and lift your upper body, with an arch in your upper back, and your chest open and lifted. Your legs should be fully extended, the tops of your feet against your mat, and your thighs lifted a few inches off your mat. Stay here for one breath, then move to the next pose.READ MORE: Boost Your Morning Routine With This Easy 15-Minute Yoga FlowCrocodile PoseHow to: Lie on your stomach with your legs extended and spread slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Fold your arms on the ground in front of you, and place your forehead on your arms. Stay here for one breath. Complete the entire flow as many times as you’d like.This article was originally published on www.womenshealthmag.com. More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      9 premium fitness studios in Dubai to feel the burn

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      4 mins ago

      With Dubai taking its wellness routines to a new level, there are a plethora of studios to elevate your fitness experience.
      You can find venues for yoga, Pilates, martial arts, CrossFit, dance, and more, to ensure you stay fit from head to toe.
      So, whether you’re looking for state-of-the-art gyms, outdoor activities, or specialised fitness studios, Dubai has something for everyone and we’re here to help.

      Veo, from Emaar Hospitality Group, is set to transform the fitness landscape with its holistic approach to wellness. The facilities also include Tennis and padel courts, a swimming pool, and various membership options to suit your needs. Everyone can experience a range of enriching classes such as Yoga, Pilates, and sound healing. With three locations opening this year—Veo Hayya Lakes- now open, Veo Manzil in Downtown Dubai, and Veo Meadows Town Center.
      For more information visit veofitness.com

      A boutique fitness studio offering signature classes which include The Reform Method, TRX Athletica, RA Yoga and Kettle Form in an environment that is plastic-free. With a holistic approach to life, the instructors modify the classes to ensure every class member receives the best experience, every time.
      Focus: Yoga & Pilates
      For more information visit reformathletica.com 

      For those who require a high-energy workout, spinning at Crank is nothing short of that with its adrenaline-fueled music. Each class is conducted by highly trained professional, who brings their expertise to the table. This fitness boutique also offers an exclusive smoothie section for visitors to have the entire experience from start to finish. With a strong community of individuals who share similar interests, Crank is the perfect place to be for that midweek workout or to fuel in more energy on the weekend with the first trial session being priced at Dhs60. Located in Unit 43, Alserkal Avenue, it’s open from Sunday to Thursday 6:30am to 10pm, Friday 8am to 3pm and Saturday 8am to 10pm
      Focus: Spinning
      For more information visit crank-fit.com

      With a space designed to nurture inner growth whilst bringing discipline to every part of your life, StudioRepublik is an immersive, state-of-the-art environment where you can lose yourself in the best way possible. Reformer equipment develops strength, movement and fluidity, fast.
      Focus: Pilates
      For more information visit studio-republik.com

      This equipped Pilates studio offers everything from Reformer and pre-natal expertise to providing its guests with a vibrant haven to learn and grow.
      Focus: Pilates
      For more information visit solpilates.ae 

      Introducing a completely new yoga concept to get the maximum benefit, the team also deliver peace of mind with calming meditation sessions that challenge both your flexibility and mental well-being.
      Focus: Yoga
      For more information visit shimis.com 

      By normalising wellness in your day-to-day life, this wellness studio located in the heart of Jumeirah promises an unforgettable experience unlike any other. For a new take on your workout routines, guests can try a hip-hop yoga class. Participants will typically start with some gentle stretching and breathing exercises to warm up their bodies. The instructor will then guide students through a series of yoga poses, often set to a soundtrack of hip-hop music. Who said feeling zen needs to be boring? Everyone can be a part of the class with a few creative twists to match the rhythm and beat of the music.
      Focus: Yoga & Meditation
      For more information visit pausdxb.com

      From Ashtanga and Vinyasa to Hatha yoga, numerous disciplines are offered at this wellness retreat that is a real haven in the city. A strong focus on balance, power, fluidity, flexibility and alignment make for improved posture, flexibility and overall wellbeing.
      Focus: Yoga & Pilates
      For more information visit thehundred.ae 

      With a focus on full-body movements to sculpt, tone and keep your mind alert, the Barre Effect method is a contemporary version on traditional barre, designed to sculpt your body, boost your metabolism and challenge your mind as it empowers a community of strong women.
      Focus: Barre
      For more information visit barreeffectdxb.com 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @melissawoodhealth More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      9 premium fitness studios to feel the burn in Dubai

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      7 mins ago

      With Dubai taking its wellness routines to a new level, there are a plethora of studios to elevate your fitness experience.
      You can find venues for yoga, Pilates, martial arts, CrossFit, dance, and more, to ensure you stay fit from head to toe.
      So, whether you’re looking for state-of-the-art gyms, outdoor activities, or specialised fitness studios, Dubai has something for everyone and we’re here to help.
      Veo

      Veo, from Emaar Hospitality Group, is set to transform the fitness landscape with its holistic approach to wellness. The facilities also include Tennis and padel courts, a swimming pool, and various membership options to suit your needs. Everyone can experience a range of enriching classes such as Yoga, Pilates, and sound healing. With three locations opening this year—Veo Hayya Lakes- now open, Veo Manzil in Downtown Dubai, and Veo Meadows Town Center.
      For more information visit veofitness.com
      Reform Athletica

      A boutique fitness studio offering signature classes which include The Reform Method, TRX Athletica, RA Yoga and Kettle Form in an environment that is plastic-free. With a holistic approach to life, the instructors modify the classes to ensure every class member receives the best experience, every time.
      Focus: Yoga & Pilates
      For more information visit reformathletica.com 
      Crank

      For those who require a high-energy workout, spinning at Crank is nothing short of that with its adrenaline-fueled music. Each class is conducted by highly trained professional, who brings their expertise to the table. This fitness boutique also offers an exclusive smoothie section for visitors to have the entire experience from start to finish. With a strong community of individuals who share similar interests, Crank is the perfect place to be for that midweek workout or to fuel in more energy on the weekend with the first trial session being priced at Dhs60. Located in Unit 43, Alserkal Avenue, it’s open from Sunday to Thursday 6:30am to 10pm, Friday 8am to 3pm and Saturday 8am to 10pm
      Focus: Spinning
      For more information visit crank-fit.com
      Studio Republik

      With a space designed to nurture inner growth whilst bringing discipline to every part of your life, StudioRepublik is an immersive, state-of-the-art environment where you can lose yourself in the best way possible. Reformer equipment develops strength, movement and fluidity, fast.
      Focus: Pilates
      For more information visit studio-republik.com
      Sol Pilates Studio

      This equipped Pilates studio offers everything from Reformer and pre-natal expertise to providing its guests with a vibrant haven to learn and grow.
      Focus: Pilates
      For more information visit solpilates.ae 
      Shimis

      Introducing a completely new yoga concept to get the maximum benefit, the team also deliver peace of mind with calming meditation sessions that challenge both your flexibility and mental well-being.
      Focus: Yoga
      For more information visit shimis.com 
      Paus; Wellness + Community

      By normalising wellness in your day-to-day life, this wellness studio located in the heart of Jumeirah promises an unforgettable experience unlike any other. For a new take on your workout routines, guests can try a hip-hop yoga class. Participants will typically start with some gentle stretching and breathing exercises to warm up their bodies. The instructor will then guide students through a series of yoga poses, often set to a soundtrack of hip-hop music. Who said feeling zen needs to be boring? Everyone can be a part of the class with a few creative twists to match the rhythm and beat of the music.
      Focus: Yoga & Meditation
      For more information visit pausdxb.com
      The Hundred Wellness Centre

      From Ashtanga and Vinyasa to Hatha yoga, numerous disciplines are offered at this wellness retreat that is a real haven in the city. A strong focus on balance, power, fluidity, flexibility and alignment make for improved posture, flexibility and overall wellbeing.
      Focus: Yoga & Pilates
      For more information visit thehundred.ae 
      Barre Effect

      With a focus on full-body movements to sculpt, tone and keep your mind alert, the Barre Effect method is a contemporary version on traditional barre, designed to sculpt your body, boost your metabolism and challenge your mind as it empowers a community of strong women.
      Focus: Barre
      For more information visit barreeffectdxb.com 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @melissawoodhealth More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      8 premium fitness studios to feel the burn in Dubai

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      5 mins ago

      With Dubai taking its wellness routines to a new level, there are a plethora of studios to elevate your fitness experience.
      You can find venues for yoga, Pilates, martial arts, CrossFit, dance, and more, to ensure you stay fit from head to toe.
      So, whether you’re looking for state-of-the-art gyms, outdoor activities, or specialised fitness studios, Dubai has something for everyone and we’re here to help.
      Reform Athletica

      A boutique fitness studio offering signature classes which include The Reform Method, TRX Athletica, RA Yoga and Kettle Form in an environment that is plastic-free. With a holistic approach to life, the instructors modify the classes to ensure every class member receives the best experience, every time.
      Focus: Yoga & Pilates
      For more information visit reformathletica.com 
      Crank

      For those who require a high-energy workout, spinning at Crank is nothing short of that with its adrenaline-fueled music. Each class is conducted by highly trained professional, who brings their expertise to the table. This fitness boutique also offers an exclusive smoothie section for visitors to have the entire experience from start to finish. With a strong community of individuals who share similar interests, Crank is the perfect place to be for that midweek workout or to fuel in more energy on the weekend with the first trial session being priced at Dhs60. Located in Unit 43, Alserkal Avenue, it’s open from Sunday to Thursday 6:30am to 10pm, Friday 8am to 3pm and Saturday 8am to 10pm
      Focus: Spinning
      For more information visit crank-fit.com
      Studio Republik

      With a space designed to nurture inner growth whilst bringing discipline to every part of your life, StudioRepublik is an immersive, state-of-the-art environment where you can lose yourself in the best way possible. Reformer equipment develops strength, movement and fluidity, fast.
      Focus: Pilates
      For more information visit studio-republik.com
      Sol Pilates Studio

      This equipped Pilates studio offers everything from Reformer and pre-natal expertise to providing its guests with a vibrant haven to learn and grow.
      Focus: Pilates
      For more information visit solpilates.ae 
      Shimis

      Introducing a completely new yoga concept to get the maximum benefit, the team also deliver peace of mind with calming meditation sessions that challenge both your flexibility and mental well-being.
      Focus: Yoga
      For more information visit shimis.com 
      Paus; Wellness + Community

      By normalising wellness in your day-to-day life, this wellness studio located in the heart of Jumeirah promises an unforgettable experience unlike any other. For a new take on your workout routines, guests can try a hip-hop yoga class. Participants will typically start with some gentle stretching and breathing exercises to warm up their bodies. The instructor will then guide students through a series of yoga poses, often set to a soundtrack of hip-hop music. Who said feeling zen needs to be boring? Everyone can be a part of the class with a few creative twists to match the rhythm and beat of the music.
      Focus: Yoga & Meditation
      For more information visit pausdxb.com
      The Hundred Wellness Centre

      From Ashtanga and Vinyasa to Hatha yoga, numerous disciplines are offered at this wellness retreat that is a real haven in the city. A strong focus on balance, power, fluidity, flexibility and alignment make for improved posture, flexibility and overall wellbeing.
      Focus: Yoga & Pilates
      For more information visit thehundred.ae 
      Barre Effect

      With a focus on full-body movements to sculpt, tone and keep your mind alert, the Barre Effect method is a contemporary version on traditional barre, designed to sculpt your body, boost your metabolism and challenge your mind as it empowers a community of strong women.
      Focus: Barre
      For more information visit barreeffectdxb.com 
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @melissawoodhealth More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      International Yoga Day: 10 studios in Dubai to book

      by

      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      3 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 10 IMAGES
      As it’s important to start the year on a positive note, it’s time to book a yoga session to feel calm from the inside out.
      International Yoga Day, also known as the International Day of Yoga, is celebrated annually on June 21st. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2014, following a proposal by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his address to the General Assembly. The first International Yoga Day was observed on June 21, 2015.
      So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, there’s a class for everyone to try out and feel completely rejuvenated after.
      What are some of the benefits of yoga?
      Physical and Mental Health
      Yoga is known for its numerous health benefits, including improved flexibility, strength, and mental clarity. International Yoga Day aims to raise awareness about these benefits and encourage people to incorporate yoga into their daily lives.
      Cultural Heritage
      Yoga has ancient roots in Indian culture and philosophy. The day highlights yoga’s historical significance and its role in promoting a balanced lifestyle.
      Global Unity
      The celebration fosters a sense of global unity by bringing people together from various countries and backgrounds to participate in yoga activities, emphasizing peace and harmony.
      From Vinyasa to hip hop yoga, you can choose a class that fits best into your workout routine to relax and heal during your time off or for a midweek break.
      Hence, for inspiration on where to book next, Emirates Woman has curated the perfect guide of venues to book for your upcoming yoga class.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @galaortin & Feature Image: Emirates Woman’s January Cover 2024 More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      How I got my job as… Director of this hot yoga studio in the UAE

      by

      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 speak to Jessica Casalegno who recently took on the role as Dryp’s Wellness Director. She is a distinguished hot Reformer, Barre, Pilates, Yoga instructor and wellness professional hailing from the United States. Overall, she is setting a new standard for wellness in the region.This homegrown pioneering wellness destination has now reopened in Dubai Marina with two newly expanded and renovated men’s and women’s toilets, shower and changing rooms, there is an overall collective lifestyle feel to the brand’s new look and offering and state-of-the-art equipment including the infra-red sauna, below-zero cryotherapy chamber and more.To delve into her journey, Emirates Woman spoke to Casalegno, to see how her journey in the wellness industry began.What was your favourite subject at school?My favorite subject was always art – creating and making was always at the core of what I loved most.What was your first job?My first job was when I was age 17 and in retail, at Hollister in the US. My first graduate position was for a boutique architecture firm as a drafter while I was still in design school.What brought you to Dubai?Like so many other women, I came to Dubai with my husband, due to my husband’s job. I’ve found it to be extremely hard to find Americans who live outside of US (my husband isn’t American). So while I am a “rare” case living in the UAE, I really love living abroad, specifically here, and I don’t anticipate moving back to the US. Dubai has really become home for us over the past 6 years of residence.What inspired you to enter the wellness space and be part of the hot yoga studio, Dryp?I’ve always been involved in the active community in Dubai since relocating here in 2018. I joined boutique fitness studios and found likeminded friends outside of my office job as an architect within the fitness scene. After the pandemic of 2020, I became a freelance designer, which pushed me into working in fitness as a “part time” gig. I began by teaching Barre, then I moved into leading yoga classes which then led to Pilates and reformer training and teaching. I’ve been practicing yoga since age 12, and I danced throughout my childhood. I did American cheerleading and tumbling during high school and was captain of my squad. Core strength disciplines have always been at the heart of my wellness journey in life. I’ve been practicing Pilates on the reformer now for well over 6 years; the transition into working within the realm of bodyweight training felt like second nature. I was a Dryp member upon moving to Dubai, then I started teaching there as soon as I completed my further professional training – and everything just grew from there.Talk us through the concept of Dryp?At inception, the Dryp concept was a unique one: a space for the “modern” yogi and fitness enthusiast. Dryp remains one of the few homegrown workout studio(s) that leads with a hot wellness offering. Dryp isn’t about warm wellness, it is HOT; my classes hover around 40+ degrees Celsius! It is still the hottest studio that I’ve ever experienced to date. The way you feel after any of the workouts we offer is euphoric, and members get a full body experience like no other, that leaves them feeling incredible. The endorphins and dopamine that flood the body after a Dryp session are so powerful and satisfying. At Dryp we pushed hard to bring in the additional reformer Pilates studio that is now open, as no other studio in Dubai enjoys both. Having both hot classes and reformer Pilates is truly the best of both worlds. The studio now has everything members could ever want: reformer, hot classes and even my favorite matcha cafe too! Now with the added Cryo and infra-red sauna sessions, Dryp is a “one stop shop” for wellness, hosting all of the best of what Dubai has to offer. DRYP hosts just one price for memberships for our classes: regardless of if they are reformer or hot room. For example, when you buy 10 classes at Dryp you are free to mix them for the most preferable combination to you. No confusion and no hassle and the freedom to switch up your classes however you choose throughout your wellness journey.What are the key elements of your role?I lead our team – from instructors and admins to housekeeping. I draft up the schedules, I try out the teachers, I plan the packages and organize the prices accordingly with the owner. I collaborate with partners, I conduct the in-house marketing strategies. I organize photoshoots and private events. I also led the entire design renovation, utilising my background as an architect and interior designer. I directed all of the new design at Dryp, from the interior selections to the new equipment – mats, artwork, signage Working with BluMatcha, I even helped conceptualize menu prototypes for the Dryp café. I manage daily operations from sales to handling any sort of customer service experience. I’m at the forefront of it all. It’s a 24/7 role that is done on top of my wellness teaching and management of some architectural design projects too.Talk us through your daily routine.I’m an early riser and no day is the same. Typically, i’ll review the accounting and sales of Dryp’s previous day, then I’ll begin teaching classes, either in the studio or with my private clients. I always have to be available online to manage Dryp, whether I am physically in the studio or not. I usually have a little break in the afternoons where I will take meetings or handle the day’s demands, then I’ll teach in the evenings too. If I’m not busy training other people or managing admin, I make time to do my own personal training. I’ll either take a class, go to the gym or head outside for a walk. I might even be found rollerblading in the fresh air. I spend most weekends with my husband and friends – often at the beach or somewhere outside. Otherwise, I can be found cuddling up on the sofa at home with my two sweet kittens.What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?My best advice: don’t limit yourself or put yourself in a box. Allow life’s twists and turns, and grow with the seasons. Honestly, I would have never guessed I’d be doing what I’m doing now and I’m loving it. This path hasn’t been direct for me – but the best professional decision ever made was to leave the corporate world. I fully resigned from my full-time work as a senior architect less than one year ago. I went from working in fitness very “part time” to bringing together multiple aspects of my background into one leadership role. My work now is very intersectional as I’m still holding onto the design aspect, just in a different way than I did before – and I’m still learning every day.Tell us more about the classes offered?On the mat, we have “Original 60” & “Original 90,” which many people also know under the names of Bikram Express (60 minutes) and Bikram (90 minutes). These are the original sequences of the first style of hot yoga. We also have “Hot Vinyasa,” which is a dynamic vinyasa flow style class in the heat. “Hot Core Flow” is a vinyasa flow style class that specifically focuses on core asanas – consider it a “more intense” vinyasa flow. “Hot Yoga Sculpt” is a fusion class that all instructors teach differently. At its core, is a hybrid of weightlifting and Pilates style training with yogic flows intertwined within the sequence. “Hot Booty Core” is my signature class, which is a full on ‘sculpt’ style Pilates class, often with many squats and lunges – all low impact moves used in a non-stop, high intensity sequence. “Dryp Fit” is a strength and conditioning class that focuses on bringing out the athlete within. “Strength & Mobility” is a heated yoga workshop style class that teaches members how to enhance their yoga practice – think handstand drills and lots of chatarungas. “Hot Mat Pilates” has low impact moves for a high intensity workout. The softer classes on the mat include “Hot Yin” and “Hot Candlelight Flow + Stretch”, both of which promote flexibility and overall mobility. Yin focuses on holding asanas, or postures, that open the body and increase flexibility via static holds. Hot Candlelight Flow is a very soft, stretch focused vinyasa flow ~ slow but dynamic, soft but moving. On the reformer, we currently offer “Beginners Reformer,” “All Levels Reformer,” “Advanced Reformer,” “Cardio Reformer” (using the reformer trampoline as an extension), and “Stretch Reformer” (a dynamic stretching class). Very soon I’m so excited to begin offering the most unique of it all: HOT REFORMER – an advanced class for those who are in for a super challenge.What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?To simply live in the moment, to be grateful for what you have and to be your most authentic self. Life is ultimately so short: if you’re not spending it doing what you love, what is the point?And what is the worst?The worst was from anyone who tried to sway me from moving to the opposite side of the world, or those who tried to discourage me from my relationship with my husband. We were in an international long-distance relationship for 3.5 years before we got married – we then lived together, for the first time, in Dubai. Moving here with my husband has been the biggest, scariest life adventure – but also the most rewarding one. My life would have been completely different had I not taken the plunge with him, and I’m so forever grateful for the opportunities I’ve had here and the lifestyle I now enjoy. I believe that the best is yet to come and that I am destined for great things, outcomes that would have materialized had I stayed static in my corporate job in the USA.What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?I’ve had a few challenges in life, during my childhood, in school and university years. However, perhaps the biggest personal challenge I’ve had to go through in my adult life so far is a more recent pain, which was the loss of my first pregnancy. I experienced my first (and hopefully my only) miscarriage about one month ago, at around 10 weeks pregnant. It was a terrible loss and something that I am still healing through, both mentally, emotionally and physically. What I’ve gone through is a struggle that so many women face, but yet so many suffer through the pain in silence. The biggest thing that has been helping me to heal is coming to terms with how it wasn’t my fault, and that it’s just a very sad part of life. I am so thankful for the amount of support I’ve had from my family and the many female friends and clients around me too.What’s your future for the brand?The future of the brand is to grow! I’m looking forward to bringing in more reformers and to introducing hot reformer classes as the first studio in MENA region to do so. I’m also looking forward to hosting collaborations and pop ups throughout Dubai and I’m hoping to increase awareness with our partnerships like Amadawear Boutique and Bala – all of our equipment at Dryp is by Bala. The sky is the limit.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More