Society Magazine - May 2020 Issue

MY TOP 3 PICKS

FROM THE EDITOR

The bright side of lockdown

M

odern life as we know it has largely been put on pause with millions of us cooped up indoors as authorities to curtail the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic. The initial days passed by spending time with children, watching movies, trying out new recipes, reading a few books or playing indoor games.

However, this also resulted in boredom and we started feeling a void for not being able to work, meeting friends or going out for a jog. How to overcome this thought and spend time purposefully without losing enthusiasm?

COVID- 19 tests are free except when they’re not: The 25-year-old writer lives with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that makes her more susceptible to catching a virus or an infection

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1. Shift focus: Instead of thinking aloud, what we need to do is to shift our focus to what makes us happy or what we are thankful for and train our minds to think positively all the time. This will prevent over-emphasis on negative thoughts that eventually rob us of peaceful moments. Rarely do we get a chance to keep ourselves in solitude and this is the best time to reflect in a positive way. 2. Revive our forgotten hobbies: Over a period of time, the routine takes over and we tend to forget things that were dear to us once upon a time. Lockdown has helped us revive our forgotten hobbies and passions much to our delight. It may be reading comics or writing articles or drawing pictures or humming a song. This has not only refreshed our thoughts of yesteryear but brought charm and warmth in our minds. 3. Connect with nature: This lockdown has established one big truth that ‘nature is immortal’ and it is time the human race accepted this truth. It is exciting to see how nature — trees, flowers and grass — grows in silence. It is amazing to watch how the stars, sun and moon move in silence. Yes, we need silence to be able to touch the souls and Mother Nature provides it perfectly. This is time we introspect on connecting with nature.

4. Unity of human race: It is high time people across the globe realised that unity is strength. Despite the achievements in many fields — be it science, technology, medicine or engineering — the truth remains that differences among the nations widen in the heat of competition. This lockdown has made us understand that countries across the world have to work together forgetting the differences and setting aside prejudice so as to achieve peace and live together as one human race.

Thus, break has enabled us to build resilience to cope and turn moments of anxiety and despair into one of hope and perseverance. The thought of being together has blossomed in our minds and it is up to us to adapt to positive and lateral thinking.

Neighbourly helping hands: Finding things in common makes for good relationships, and from that, you can build a friendship, but even more important is the act of reaching out.

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Why Music Helps Strengthen Relationships Music can soften stressful feelings, and it can help us forget our troubles for a short time.

Happy reading!

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Amjad Vanimal Editor amjad.m@gulf-times.com

Society • ISSUE 91 • May 2020

Advtg. & Mktg. Manager Hassan Ali Anwari Editor Amjad Vanimal Copy Editors Rajith R Shemna Bijith Steve Joseph Advertising Marketing Team

Design & Layout Majeed Nadapuram

Contributing Writers

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CONTENTS

MAY 2020 TIPS

SCOPE Summer is round the corner, so it’s time to give your wardrobe a break from dull colours and heavy fabrics.

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Having a jewellery rash or an allergy does not mean you need to stop wearing your favorite rings. Read on and find out how to say goodbye to summer jewellery rashes.

GOURMET

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EDUCATION STEAM POWER – Working Beyond the Limits of STEM

When it comes to meals and everything else in between, staying healthy means watching not only how much you eat but also what you eat, along with where and when. Here are some heathy snacks recipes to try at home.

FLAIR

FREQUENT

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FOCUS

Photo of the issue Education

STEAM POWER – Working Beyond the Limits of STEM P.26

Scope

Summer is round the corner, so it’s time to give your wardrobe a break from dull colours and heavy fabrics. P.30

Tips Captured by Shiraz Sithara

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Having a jewellery rash or an allergy does not mean you need to stop wearing your favorite rings. Read on and find out how to say goodbye to summer jewellery rashes. P.32

Style

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Australian Lamb and Beef: Meat packed with nutritional GOODNESS P.42

Gourmet

When it comes to meals and everything else in between, staying healthy means watching not only how much you eat but also what you eat, along with where and when. Here are some heathy snacks recipes to try at home. P.46

Next >>

CONTENTS

RELATIONSHIPS

SPOTLIGHT

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Music can soften stressful feelings, and it can help us forget our troubles for a short time.

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COVID-19 tests are free — except when they’re not: The 25-year-old writer lives with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that makes her more susceptible to catching a virus or an infection

MAY 2020

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COVER STORY

IF YOU CANNOT GO OUT, GO IN: We need to practice detachment in attachment. Yoga comes handy in such situations.

SPOTLIGHT

FOCUS

Neighbourly helping hands: Finding things in common makes for good relationships, and from that, you can build a friendship, but even more important is the act of reaching out.

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Spotlight

COVID-19 tests are free — except when they’re not: The 25-year-old writer lives with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that makes her more susceptible to catching a virus or an infection P.10 Neighbourly helping hands: Finding things in common makes for good relationships, and from that, you can build a friendship, but even more important is the act of reaching out. P.14

Cover Story

IF YOU CANNOT GO OUT, GO IN: We need to practice detachment in attachment. Yoga comes handy in such situations. P.18

Relationships

Scan the QR Code with your smartphone or log on to www.society.qa

Music can soften stressful feelings, and it can help us forget our troubles for a short time. P.28

Read Society Magazine Online Follow us on :

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Captured by : Shiraz Sithara

PHOTO OF THE ISSUE Your cam. Your shot Submit a favourite photo you’ve clicked on any topic of your choice for possible publication in an upcoming issue of Society.

Send your photos to : society@gulf-times.com

FOCUS

spotlight

Anna Davis Abel stands outside her home in Morgantown, West Virginia, on April 19, 2020. (TNS)

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COVID-19 tests are free — except when they’re not The 25-year-old writer lives with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that makes her more susceptible to catching a virus or an infection By

Carmen Heredia Rodriguez

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E

ven before a novel virus swept around the world, Anna Davis Abel wore a mask to protect herself from getting sick.

The 25-year-old writer lives with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease that makes her more susceptible to catching a virus or an infection. Davis Abel’s doctor cleared her to travel to a literary conference in San Antonio in early March. Then she developed a sore throat and low-grade fever several days after arriving home in Morgantown, W.V. Consulting a nurse on the phone, Davis Abel was told to manage her symptoms at home. But her symptoms only worsened, so she secured an appointment with her primary care doctor. “At that point, I was, like, taking shot glasses of Sudafed,” she said.

Given the spread of the coronavirus and a chronic condition that left her vulnerable to a more serious case of COVID-19, she was concerned she’d been infected. To find out, her doctor first ordered tests to evaluate whether Davis Abel’s symptoms were caused by some other respiratory disease. According to the doctor’s notes in her medical record, “we

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Davis Abel’s doctor worried she had COVID-19 but couldn’t test her for it until she ruled out other things. (TNS)

needed to rule out all other viral possibilities before being eligible for the COVID-19 test.”

“Unfortunately at this time, COVID-19 testing is very limited and is not widely available to most patients,” the record noted.

Davis Abel tested positive for influenza Type B. Then the bill came.

The Patient: Anna Davis Abel is a 25-year-old graduate student studying creative writing at West Virginia University in Morgantown.

She is insured through an Aetna plan the university offers.

Total Amount Billed: WVU Medicine charged Davis Abel $2,121 for the visit and testing, according to records. Aetna initially paid $1,584.54 for these services.

Abel was responsible for the copay, the remaining amount of her deductible and a coinsurance cost of 20%. In total, she owed $536.46.

The Providers: Davis Abel visited the WVU Healthcare University Town Centre clinic for her primary care appointment. A laboratory within the WVU health system processed her testing for respiratory disease. Both sites were in-network for her plan.

Medical Services: A BioFire Respiratory Panel was used to test a specimen collected from the back of Davis Abel’s nose and throat for more than a dozen respiratory diseases. What Gives: Congress has taken action to make COVID-19 testing more affordable for consumers with health insurance.

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act requires private insurers to pay for certain services and items related to testing at no cost to the patient. A second piece of legislation, known as the CARES Act, expanded the number of tests and services insurers must cover at no cost. The latter law also requires health plans to reimburse out-of-network providers for their services.

However, experts said, there are gaps in these federal protections that may expose patients to unexpected medical bills.

The guidelines state that insurers are required to cover the cost of an appointment without cost sharing only if the doctor orders or administers a COVID-19 test. Even if the patient shows symptoms and receives other care related to the novel virus, without a test the patient may be on the hook for the cost of the visit, said Sabrina Corlette, a research professor and codirector of the Center on Health Insurance Reforms at Georgetown University.

“They’re getting a battery of other tests,” said Corlette. “But because there’s not enough (COVID-19) tests, they can’t get this

protection.”

A national shortage of COVID-19 tests complicates a patient’s ability to qualify for the federal safeguard. Despite efforts by the federal government and the private sector, some resources needed to increase testing remain scarce, said Janet Hamilton, executive director of the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists.

A second hole in these federal protections may leave patients holding the bill for their COVID-19 test, experts said. The law prohibits insurers from charging patients for testing, but it does not block medical providers from doing so. If an insurer does not cover the total amount charged by a provider, the patient may get balance-billed, or slapped with a surprise charge.

Guidance from the federal Department of Health and Human Services says that that should not happen because almost any patient can be considered at risk for COVID-19 right now, but it’s unclear if or how that will be enforced.

Davis Abel’s appointment was on March 11, making her ineligible for the protections offered by the federal laws. By then, however, Aetna had pledged to cover COVID-19 testing without cost sharing. The hospital system then sent Davis Abel a bill for the remaining amount.

It’s unlikely Davis Abel is the only patient getting charged for care, according to Karen Pollitz, a senior fellow at the Kaiser Family Foundation. Pollitz said insured consumers may get dinged with a bill if they get care from an out-of-network provider even though the federal protections also require insurers to cover that cost.

Consumers may find protection from these bills through a requirement attached to federal relief funding for medical providers.

Health care facilities that receive any of the $100 billion from the CARES Act Provider Relief Fund are not allowed to balance-bill patients for COVID-19 treatment. (Kaiser Health News is an editorially independent program of the foundation.)

Resolution: Aetna retroactively covered Davis Abel’s bill from the hospital after reporters made inquiries. In a statement, the insurer said it is waiving claims after receiving information from her provider that the services were related to COVID-19 testing. It also said Davis Abel represents a “unique” case and is not aware of whether other members have submitted claims for services they needed to obtain a COVID-19 test. The insurer said it would waive additional testing related to the novel virus

if the provider deemed those services necessary. Before Aetna took action, two strangers read Davis Abel’s story on Twitter and sent her the full amount for the bill.

She used the donations to help pay for a medical bill from a previous procedure.

Nearly 10 days after her appointment, Davis Abel received a drive-thru COVID-19 test offered by the same clinic. Her primary care doctor, who ordered the test, said in an email to Davis Abel that new data suggested patients could fall ill with the coronavirus and the flu at the same time.

Davis Abel’s fever and coughing had not subsided. Eight days after the test, she received her result. Negative for COVID-19.

She did not pay for the test.

The Takeaway: Experts recommend that insured patients educate themselves about their health care plan. Seek care at an in-network provider whenever possible.

Call the insurer to find out exactly what COVID-19 care it covers. Several insurance companies have pledged to waive cost sharing for treatment.

Uninsured consumers may be able to get a free COVID-19 test several ways, Pollitz said.

One way is to visit an outpatient testing area at a facility that received relief funding — the law bars the provider from balance-billing patients for care related to the coronavirus.

Another option is through Medicaid.

States may now use the government health insurance program for the poor and disabled to cover the cost of testing uninsured residents who qualify.

A third way consumers could receive a free COVID-19 test is through the National Disaster Medical System. That network of health care providers — generally activated in response to an emergency — treats patients and then charges the federal government for their services, said Pollitz.

However, she acknowledged, it may be difficult to find a provider who participates in the program.

“The problem right now is the supply of them,” Sara Collins, vice president for health care coverage and access at the Commonwealth Fund, said about COVID-19 tests. “But once that changes, people need to be confident that they’re not going to be stuck with a big bill.”

• Kaiser Health News (KHN) is a national health policy news service. It is an editorially independent program of the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation which is not affiliated with Kaiser Permanente.

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spotlight

Neighbourly helping hands Finding things in common makes for good relationships, and from that, you can build a friendship, but even more important is the act of reaching out By

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Barton Goldsmith

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My neighbor Stu is a car guy. He toys with, details, and drives his new Range Rover with such pride, it’s like a member of the family. On most days, rain or shine, you can find him working on his car, making it even nicer. It’s his thing, and I appreciate it, but it kind of makes me look bad, because our SUV has seen much better days in its 12 years of life.

That being said, it would look better with a detail, or even a wash, but I’m not a car guy (anymore), and it just seems like wasted effort, because next time I go to Lowe’s, it will need another cleanup. Still, seeing Stu fawning over his baby, I’ve often been tempted to say, “Hey Stuey, next time you’re doing your car, let me know and I’ll bring mine over.”

Well, recently, I had finished my day early, exercised, and wanted to spend some more time outside, and there was Stu out front doing his Rover, and I said, “Hey…” and he said, “Let’s do it now,” so I pulled my classic into his driveway, and we started going at it like it was the first car either of us ever owned. Keeping the appropriate 16 Society

social distance of course.

experience for my neighbour and me.

Stu got out the blower, and I followed him with a rag and cleaning or conditioning stuff that I’ve had in the garage since Y2K. It took us a couple of hours, and I was sweating in 60-degree weather, but the result was a great gift for my wife, and I felt like I had accomplished something. But wait, there’s more — I was now friends with my neighbour.

I’ve dropped off a thank-you note (yes people still do that) because I want him to know that he had made a difference in my life. My day was better because he extended himself to me, we shared stories while we worked, and it was fun, not laborious.

We’ve always had a neighborly relationship. There are no fences between the houses on our street, and everyone is polite and respectful because we all love it here. But as he and I talked about cars, music, and more cars, and boats (we live on a lake), we bonded. I get him, he likes things that go fast, and even though my go-fast days are behind me, I appreciate the rush because I once chased it myself.

Finding things in common makes for good relationships, and from that, you can build a friendship, but even more important is the act of reaching out. That couple of hours was a great connecting

I imagine that our friendship will only grow over time, and I look forward to seeing how that evolves. We have been there for each other in a couple of neighborhood emergencies, but now there is a deeper connection.

You always want to know your neighbours, but also in this day and age, it’s nice when you can count on others to do the neighbourly thing and be there for you when necessary. Knowing that just makes your life a little bit nicer, kind of like my car .

Dr Barton Goldsmith, a psychotherapist in Westlake Village, Calif., is the author of “The Happy Couple: How to Make Happiness a Habit One Little Loving Thing at a Time.”

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cover story

IF YOU CANNOT GO OUT, GO IN We need to practice detachment in attachment. Yoga comes handy in such situations Rekha Sharma is a Yoga enthusiast.

She believes that everyone’s aim in life is to be happy and that happiness is inward and not outward. The Yogi lives with her little Princess Tiara and her Marathoner husband Shadab in Doha.

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ellness is a connection of paths: knowledge and action.�

Today I will do my best to impart a little knowledge, but taking action is your choice.

The pandemic has disturbed the world order and the ecosystem in some interesting yet not so surprising ways. Reports say that Nature is reclaiming its position.

The symbiosis and the co-existence of the Humans and the Nature is altered, which reminds us of the pre-historic Utopian way of cohabitation of all species on this planet. We as humans are shaken but the other species are trying to salvage their lost status.

There are now more than 1.2 million confirmed cases of coronavirus in 183 countries and more than 69,000 people have died. Yes, it is alarming. Yes, it is frightening. Yes, it is inexplicable. But all that we can do as of now is to stay in and reflect upon.

With almost the entire world in quarantine, the social media has become a major source of our entertainment. While social media is spreading important information, it is also building procrastination among individuals and creating lazy humans. It is like the Yin and Yang, the contrary forces. There cannot be a shadow without light. We need to practice detachment in attachment. Yoga comes handy in such situations.

The true meaning of Yoga is the union of body, mind and soul. Your true self lies hidden in the silence between your thoughts, beyond all limitations, in doubts, in chaos, and in confusion. In all these your mind tends to become indecisive and flustered. In the present time, Yoga is one of the finest and most constructive practices to achieve the right balance between your thoughts and deeds. While we are on a wait for the better, Yoga calms our mind, relaxes our body and soothes our soul.

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Yoga for the body There are about a 1000 asanas/postures that Yoga offers to strengthen the body.

Identify the postures that enhances you and practice daily.

cal history with the Yoga Master/ Teacher, because we need to be compassionate towards our body as it is to us. Spend 20 minutes relaxing your body every day.

Attain physical cleansing.

Asana/posture tip – Your body knows what is best for you. Always listen to your body. Before you start, discuss your medi-

Yoga for the mind Breath is essential to life. It is the first thing we do when we are born and the last thing

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we do when we leave. If we can synchronize the breath, the mind will be synchronized too. Leading to a relaxed state of mind. This practice is called ‘Pranayam’.

Breath/Pranayam tip – It is important to condition yourself to be mindful: the ability to be present, to rest in the here and now. Breathe-in calmness, positivity, optimism in a count of 1..2..3..3..4 and breathe-

out problems, pains, negativity in a count of 1..2..3..4..5..6. Breathe-in deep, breathe-out deeper. Cleanse your mind.

Yoga for the Soul It is said that if you quiet the mind, the soul will speak. Only in deep meditation, you will know who you truly are. Meditation is the only way to be in-tune with

your inner energy source, your inner juice, your inner silence.

Meditation tip – We cannot step out, but we surely can step in. Find your space, close your eyes and play soothing music in the background. Acknowledge the thoughts, don’t dwell in them. Just observe, do not judge.

Yoga is a genuine tool to combat social malaise. At this time when the World seems to be at a loss, Yoga provides a means for people to find their own way of connecting with their true selves.

Through this connection, it is possible for all of us to manifest harmony in the present time.

Stay in. Stay safe. Stay in peace.

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relationship

Why

MUS help I C s stre ng RE then LATI ONS HIPS

Music can soften stressful feelings, and it can help us forget our troubles for a short time

By Light Hopson, Emma Hopson and Ted Hagen

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W

e all know that music is the universal language. It speaks to the heart and inner spirit.

One great love song can ignite the passion of two people. And, one good upbeat tune can release energy to a room full of people in an aerobics class.

Music can soften stressful feelings, and it can help us forget our troubles for a short time. “My husband and I were arguing loudly a couple of

days ago,” says a real estate agent we’ll call Ana. “We were on the verge of getting the police called on us, and I’m only joking by a little bit.”

A couple we know has found a way to make some memories using music. They hold family karaoke at their house every night before dinner.

Ana told us her 10-year-old twins cranked up a rock ‘n’ roll song to switch the mood.

“My husband grabbed my hand, and we started dancing like crazy,” laughs Ana. “I swear, when we quit and flopped on the couch, we couldn’t remember why we were arguing. We just couldn’t stay mad at each other.”

“Singing is a good way to put everybody in a better mood,” says one of their kids we’ll call John. “Social distancing means my brother can’t practice with his garage band like he used to. Mom came up with the karaoke idea as a way to make my brother feel better.”

Music has a very powerful impact on our moods. If you need to find the energy to exercise, you’ll need whatever songs trigger your desire to produce that energy.

On the other hand, meditation and yoga require calming music.

“My cousin and I text back and forth all day,” says a nurse we’ll call Wendy. “We share our favorite videos on YouTube sometimes. During this coronavirus scare, we found a YouTube clip showing a dog ‘singing’ along with wind chimes on his

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family’s porch. It’s precious. By sending it out to our friends, we’re actually making a nice memory for us all.”

A grandmother who needs to get in shape told us she’s using music to speed up her exercise. We’ll call her Sheila.

“My husband is supposed to exercise as well, because he recently had a heart issue,” Sheila says.

This couple found out playing their favorite CDs ignites their desire to exercise. They turn on their favorite songs every afternoon. With the music setting the mood, they take turns riding their stationary bike for an hour.

“It’s giving us something in common,” says Sheila. “The music makes the time fly by, and we made a pact to each ride the bike for three songs.

Then, we switch.”

Music can completely alter your

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mood, create a soft mental space when you’re anxious, and help reverse depression. “My grandson is depressed about his school schedule changing during our national crisis,” says a retired teacher we’ll call Phyllis. “I broke the ice with him by asking him to watch the movie ‘Grease’ with me. Then, I questioned him about music he likes. He told me he loves all kinds, and he confessed he’s always wanted to play the guitar.”

Phyllis found her old Ovation from the ‘80s in an upstairs bedroom, along with a guitar book.

“I taught my grandson a few chords,” she reveals. He’s very excited about learning more. If he does well, I will give him the guitar.

Light Hopson is the Executive Director of the stress management website USA Wellness Café at www.usawellnesscafe.com. Emma Hopson is an author and a nurse educator. Ted Hagen is a family psychologist.

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education

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R E W O P M STEA d n o y e B g n i Work M E T S f o s t i the Lim By

orter

Simon P

Y

ou may be familiar with STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths), but at Compass International School (Compass), as a result of our ground-breaking collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), we focus on STEAM. You may well ask what the A in STEAM is and why does MIT and Compass feel the need to insert the extra letter?

The A stands for Arts because we know that “a vivid imagination for new ideas are not generated by deduction, but by an artistically creative imagination� (Max Planck, founder of Quantum Physics).

From Leonardo de Vinci to Einstein, from Bill Gates to Steve Jobs, advances in tech nology, science and engineering have relied upon creativity and imagination.

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By including Art in our work on traditional STEM subjects, MIT and Compass recognise that.

Each year, MIT set three STEAM challenges specially for Nord Anglia Education students. This year 1,800 young people from age 3 to 18 across our four campuses are attempting three challenges under the overall title “REVEAL – Discovering Science through Compelling Images”.

The first challenge was “A Different Lens” featuring Felice Frankel, a science photographer and research scientist from MIT. Students were challenged to use digital manipulation to communicate complex scientific concepts to international audiences.

In the next challenge titled “Extreme Exposure” featuring MIT professor Allan Adams, students will create imaging tools that let them explore places they’ve never dared to examine before.

The final challenge, based on the theme “The Picture of Health” featuring Jim Collins, follows the work of this pioneer in the burgeoning field of synthetic biology.

Students will combine imaging knowledge and biology to invent a product, repurpose a technology, or design a new medical tool.

As part of this collaboration, five teachers from Compass International School have travelled to MIT in Cambridge to have a week-long intensive training from MIT professors and doctoral students.

This has given teachers the capability to offer the best access to STEAM learning throughout the curriculum, not just during STEAM days. The MIT motto is “Mens et manus” which means “mind and hand. The Compass teaching team engage students in the very essence of this by allowing them to use their minds to create with their hands. As a result of the collaboration, Compass International School is at the forefront of practical hands-on problem-solving activities in student education in Qatar.

Simon Porter is Head of Secondary at Compass International School’s new state of the art Themaid campus. He has a Masters in International Education and writes regularly for the Times Educational Supplement. To find out more about Simon and Compass International School, visit: www.cisdoha.com

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FLAIR fashion

Get your wardrobe ready for summer Summer is round the corner, so it’s time to give your wardrobe a break from dull colours and heavy fabrics 30 Society

L

et’s be optimistic, the lockdown isn’t going to last forever and we will get to step out of our houses soon enough.

When that day comes, you have to be fashion ready for all those meetings, dates and parties which quarantine has left us all craving for. Summer is round the corner, so it’s time to give your wardrobe a break from dull colours and heavy fabrics; bring out bright colours, prints and flowy silhouettes.

You’ve got plenty of time to pack the woollens and iron out summer styles.

Take this time to rummage and try on all your outfits to see which ones still compliment your body and those which are still in trend. Find prints, fabrics and colours which continue to be a hit this season.

Nelson Jaffery, Head of Design, Liva and Abhishek Yadav, Design Head, Spykar Lifestyles, helps you out with that to keep and what to stow. “Fabrics like viscose and modal which are easy to clean and remain wrinkle free will be the preferred choices. Spring fashion will also go into summer so expect a lot of relaxed fits as opposed to the bodycon and skinny styles” he say.Abstract prints “Abstract art has been a source of great inspiration for runway collections and

now it is coming back in Spring/ Summer trends 2020. These creative prints emote a range of emotions, making them ideal for all occasions. Colourful and haphazardly drawn splashes of paint are on have everything from jackets to blouses and pants,” says Jaffery.

Boot Leg Pants with a panel of abstract print on the side paired with a neutral top will make for a great. These can be accessorised with block heels or sneakers depending on the occasion.

Hot pink and yellow will also be very popular. Opt for a summery yellow dress with a panel of abstract print down the front or hot pink pants with a white crop top.

Over the weekends, you can think out of the box and step out in fun palazzos in abstract black and white prints.

Nature based prints “Spring is also the season of blooming, hence nature inspired prints are evergreen for this time of the year. Floral, jungle and plant inspired prints in pastel colours will be a great option,” says Yadav.

Draped dhoti pants with an off shoulder printed top ensures style with comfort.

This outfit can be worn for a casual brunch or dressed up for a celebration.

“Denim over-alls with a floral shirt is also a chic look for this season. The versatility of the denim fabric makes it a great choice for all seasons,” adds Yadav.

Don’t forget about the basic colours such as black, beige, blue and white which can be teamed up with different prints, for e.g. a black stripped pant can be combined with a black jacket with geometric prints.

Animal prints “Animal prints can be a little intimidating; however, when worn correctly, they make a fashion statement like no other,” says Jaffery. Leopard and Zebra prints are going to be seen a lot of clothes this season.

Opt for a simple cheetah printed top with a lace detail and pair it with some white denims for an elegant look. One can also opt for a Zebra printed crop top with black pants for an evening out.

Animal printed jumpers and rompers with classy black heels will also be a great option.

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FLAIR tips

SAY GOODBYE TO SUMMER JEWELLERY RASHES Having a jewellery rash or an allergy does not mean you need to stop wearing your favourite rings

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rom causing mild irritation to severe redness and rashes, wearing jewelry during hot summer months, often spells disaster for your skin.

“Soaps, lotion and dead skin stuck in the crevasses of your jewellery when combined with summer sweat creates an environment wherein bacteria grows which could potentially irritate your skin,” Abhishek Rastogi, Head of Design, Jewellery Division, Titan Company Limited told IANSlife.

As per Leshna Shah, founder and chief creative director of Irasva, a fine jewellery destination, says allergies affect nearly 10 percent of the population.

But, having a jewellery rash or an allergy does not mean you need to stop wearing your favorite rings, earrings or other baubles. Keeping the area dry is key. Bracelets and rings can cause a rash soon after washing your hand, if you fail to completely dry them. Keeping your hands and jewellery dry isn’t a foolproof plan, but it can helps prevent rashes.

Another trick is to have your jewellery plated. If a good piece of jewellery which you wear daily, such as your wedding ring, causes a reaction, ask a jeweler to have it plated in a metal which is less allergy prone like as platinum.

Keep your jewellery clean and tarnish free. Also, wearing jewellery for shorter lengths of time helps.

According to Ketan Chokshi, Co-owner of Narayan Jewellers, if your jewellery is made of gem stones and precious diamonds, it is advisable to take it to your jeweller for cleaning in order to prevent damage to the stones.

Avoid moisture and soap. Switch to a mild soap with minimal chemicals as the chances of developing bacteria on your jewellery is less in this case. Always keep a hypoallergenic cream with and apply it often. However, if your skin is sensitive, a cream-based moisturiser helps in preventing skin rashes.

“One should definitely avoid all kinds of artificial jewellery as it may contain high levels of reactive metals like nickel, copper and zinc which can not only give one allergic rashes especially during the summers, but are also toxic for the body.”

“Gold and Platinum are inert, and silver is relatively inert so this trio should be your best bet for jewellery. However when buying gold one has to be very cautious of buying Nickel-Safe-Gold only, as nickel is one of the most common causes of itchy allergic rash that develops particularly on ears, neck, wrists and fingers. So always buy gold jewellery from reputed and trusted brands only,” Rastogi suggested.

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FLAIR style

Ted Baker’s Collection

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Society Magazine is always looking for fresh faces. If you think you have what it takes to be featured in the magazine, send us your sample photos for a chance to be considered.

Submit your short bio and sample photos to: society@gulf-times.com Have questions about the submission?

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FLAIR food

Australian Lamb and Beef

Meat packed with nutritional

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ou don’t have to compromise on flavour to eat healthy. Australian red meat is known all over the world for its tender quality, consistent texture, freshness, and exceptional flavour. Perhaps what may not be as well known about Lamb and Beef from the land down-under are the health benefits it provides for the entire family.

Natural nourishment Naturally raised, in harmony with the environment, Australian Lamb and Beef is produced to the highest standards of quality and integrity. When it comes to a natural habitat, very few countries are as fortunate as Australia, with animals having access to abundance of clean water, natural food and fresh air.

Australian red meat is tasty and tender with consistent texture, because it is from the healthiest and most well-cared-for livestock on earth.

Health benefits Australian Lamb and Beef brings both flavour and nutrition to the table and is a perfect fit for an active lifestyle. Being a popular choice on menus all over the Middle East, red meat is a natural source of protein, iron and zinc. Proteinrich foods provide a satisfying meal for those trying to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Apart from protein, iron is important for the overall health and

Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) is a producer-owned company, which provides marketing and research and development services for the Australian cattle, sheep and goat industries.MLA in the Middle East North African region works with retailers, foodservice operators, importers, manufacturers and Australian Exporters to maintain and increase the demand for halal red meat and livestock to the region. The Australian meat and livestock industry is proud to be a key supplier of safe, nutritious, delicious halal certified meat to MENA and assisting in ensuring food security of the region.

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Nick Meara, the Regional Manager for Meat & Livestock Australia (MENA)

wellbeing of the human body. Iron-rich foods are recommended from 6 months of age for good growth and development.

Variety in every meal Having red meat 3-4 times a week makes it easier to meet your daily nutrition needs.

In an interview, Nick Meara, the Regional Manager for Meat & Livestock Australia (MENA) said: “It is important to maintain a balanced diet, and with Australian Lamb and Beef you have a variety of cut choices that offer a versatile diet with numerous meal options.�

Depending on the cut, Australian Lamb and Beef can be prepared in many ways; grilling, broiling, roasting, pan-frying, slow cooking and braising to name a few. Lamb and beef form the basis for many well-known cuisines around the world. While very popular in Arabic dishes, red meat is also a favourite

ingredient in Italian pastas, Mexican fajitas and tacos, curries and casseroles from all over the world. And of course, simply grilled as a beautiful steak or lamb chop on the BBQ. There are endless choices when using Australian Lamb and Beef.

Home-cooked meals made easy for the family The Arab world’s first Master Chef Tarek Ibrahim says his favourite meal is lamb with roasted vegetables and sweet potatoes. “I love how easy it is to cook up a healthy meal for the entire family with Aussie Lamb. Just rub a mix of garlic, salt, pepper, mint leaves and olive oil on a 2 kg lamb leg and place it in a dish with cut veggies and sweet potatoes. Put it in the oven to roast for 2 hours and that’s it!

Simple and done in a matter of just a few steps.”

Tarek goes on to say, “I’m often asked why I prefer Australian meat over others, and here’s why: Every meal eaten is physically and emotionally satisfying, as it’s easy

to prepare and is enjoyed by everyone around the table.”

Fresh and guaranteed Australian Lamb and Beef on Middle Eastern supermarket shelves are still as fresh as the day it was packed. This is because the Australian meat industry implements world leading hygienic practices and employs the latest technologies in processing and packing to deliver wholesome, safe food to Middle East markets.

All red meat processed for export from Australia is produced under government supervision to strict guidelines which are monitored throughout the entire supply chain.

In addition, Australia has one of the strictest halal programmes in the world.

Local Islamic organisations work with the Australian government to implement best practices of production and slaughter standards according to halal techniques. This has contributed to the worldwide recognition that Australia’s halal programme is amongst the most rigorously enforced halal systems in the world. When Muslim customers buy Australian meat in the Middle East, they can be confident that they are getting clean, safe and 100 per cent guaranteed halal meat.

When it comes to choosing healthy and great-tasting red meat for the family, nothing beats Australian Lamb and Beef.

Choose the world’s finest.

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FLAIR

gourmet

Turn toward healthy snacks for stress eating When it comes to meals and everything else in between, staying healthy means watching not only how much you eat but also what you eat, along with where and when.

Here are some heathy snacks recipes to try at home By

Gretchen McKay

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s COVID-19 stressing you out? Me, too.

I know that to be a fact, and not just because I’m having trouble sleeping and feel sick to my stomach when I watch the news. I’m also eating. And eating more, even though I’m no longer training for any of my spring races.

It’s so easy to do, even if it’s not particularly enjoyable. A handful of chips on your way from the kitchen to the living room. A mindless slice of cheese while you’re aimlessly perusing the contents of your refrigerator like a hungry middle-schooler.

No one can blame you. In fact, it’s understandable. While some lose their appetite in times of anxiety _ and what are we during this pandemic if not anxious _ many others soothe the negative feelings with food, even when they’re not particularly hungry.

“People grab the foods that comforted them during childhood and the pleasure chemical in the brain is released, which is self-soothing,” says Kelsey Hutter, a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator with Allegheny Health Network.

According to the data tracker Nielsen, we’re not just stocking up on toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Americans also are buying a heck of a lot of chocolate, ice cream, popcorn and potato chips. Sales of pastry also has soared.

Mindless eating doesn’t just wreck havoc on the waistline; it’s also bad for your health. Poor nutrition can compromise your immune function, and with the coronavirus spreading across communities, do you really want to increase your risk of getting infected?

When it comes to meals and everything else in between, staying healthy means watching not only how much you eat but

also what you eat, along with where and when.

To that end, Hutter says one should try to be cognizant of what he or she is consuming a practice that’s known as mindful eating.

“It’s about being present and savoring the flavors with your senses,” she says.

How does it taste? What’s the aroma and texture? It’s also about determining your hunger level. For instance, is your stomach grumbling or are you simply munching in front of the computer or TV because you saw that bag of chips on the counter?

“It encourages you to slow down and pay attention to food,” she says.

This can be difficult now that so many people are working from home and within steps of their kitchens and pantries. What can help, if you have a tendency to graze or binge eat, is to come up with a plan Hutter calls “the role of fives.”

Make a list of five things that relax you, such as reading a magazine or playing with your kids; five things that distract you; five people you can call and connect with; five things that soothe your senses, such as turning down the lights or trading jeans for sweat pants; and five places you can go for comfort, such as a garden or your favorite chair. Learn, too, the difference between emotional and physical hunger. The former comes on suddenly and craves a specific comfort food; the latter grows more gradually and stops when your stomach is full.

“Just because you’re home all day doesn’t give you permission to graze all day or overeat,” she says. “You have to catch yourself.”

Bringing healthier foods into the home is a positive first step _ think popcorn instead of cookies or flavored yogurt or low-cal

CUCUMBER-MINT SPRITZER This refreshing alcohol-free spritzer, perfect for sipping on the porch or deck after a work-from-home day, has just 12 calories.

Ingredients: 2 mini cucumbers or large cucumber 8 leaves fresh mint, plus sprigs for garnish 2 lemons or limes 12 ounces lemon or regular seltzer Ice cubes Method: Slice cucumber(s) into thin ribbons using a mandoline or vegetable

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peeler. Place in a large mason jar or small pitcher, reserving some for glasses.

Add mint leaves and gently muddle. Squeeze juice from 1 lemons (or limes) into the pitcher, reserving the other half for garnish. Stir in seltzer.

Fill 2 cocktail glasses with ice. Pour drink over ice and garnish with mint sprigs, cucumber ribbons and lemon (or lime) slices, if desired.

ice cream bars instead of full-fat ice cream, for instance. Also, think about retooling recipes for your favorite snacks so they contain more of the good stuff, like protein, healthy fats and less sugar.

Are you a chocaholic? Avocado blended with yogurt, cocoa powder, maple syrup and vanilla makes a satisfying chocolate pudding. It’s also good for you, as avocados boast more than 20 nutrients and goodfor-you monounsaturated fats. Serve it in a pretty cocktail glass, and it will feel extra special. Maybe you’re more of a cruncher.

Roasted chickpeas are lower in calories than nuts, packed with fiber and can be customized with a variety of warm spices, including cumin, cayenne and curry powder.

Sate a sweet tooth not with a sugary cookie but a nutritious energy bar flavored with ginger and molasses. It’s a runner’s favorite, thanks to the carbs, and is equally good with a cup of coffee as a glass of milk.

And finally, while carrot sticks, wholegrain crackers and sliced veggies make for healthful snacking, they can also feel like you’re on a diet. So how about you pair them with a tasty, nutritious dip. Chickpeas, a main ingredient in hummus, are chock-full of key nutrients, such as B vitamins, calcium and iron, and they also provide fiber.

We’ve got recipes for the above, as well as one for a guilt-free mocktail to enjoy after a hard day in your (home) office. Crafted with cucumber, citrus, mint and seltzer, it’s so refreshing and because there’s no alcohol, you don’t even have to wait until it’s five o’clock somewhere to enjoy it.

And if you fall off the healthy snack wagon? Be kind to yourself.

“It’s going to take time to adapt to this new normal,” Hutter says.

CLASSIC HUMMUS This nutritious and creamy Middle Eastern dip is low in sodium and high in protein. I like it with a lot of lemon and cumin, but you also could add more garlic, roasted red pepper, paprika, cayenne, cilantro, jalapeno or anything else you like.

If it’s too thick, add a little more oil, lemon juice or water to taste. Serve with fresh veggies, whole-grain crackers, toasted pita chips or tortilla chips. Hummus also makes a nice substitute for mayo on sandwiches and in wraps.

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling Paprika and/or chopped parsley, for garnish Method: Combine chickpeas, lemon juice, garlic, tahini, salt and cumin in a food processor.

Puree the hummus for several minutes until it is smooth and well mixed.

Season with pepper, then drizzle in 3 tablespoons olive oil. Continue pureeing until the hummus is super creamy. You may have to add a little water if it’s too thick.

Ingredients: 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed Juice of 1 to 2 large lemons 1 or 2 garlic cloves, chopped

To serve, spoon hummus into a shallow bowl, dust with paprika and/or parsley and drizzle with a little more olive oil.

cup tahini, well mixed 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Makes about 1 cups.

1 teaspoon ground cumin

Serve with baby carrots, sliced vegetables, crackers, toasted pita or rice crackers.

Freshly ground black pepper

DARK CHOCOLATE AVOCADO PUDDING Avocados provide healthy fat and make this pudding super satiating. You can play with the recipe by adding a little ginger, cinnamon or cayenne pepper. If you’ve got cocoa nibs, they make a lovely and crunchy garnish. Substitute almond or coconut milk for the yogurt and skim milk for a vegan treat.

Ingredients: 2 small ripe avocados, pitted and scooped from skin 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt \ cup skim milk cup unsweetened cocoa powder cup maple syrup 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Pinch of salt Ground ginger, cinnamon or cayenne pepper, optional Whipped cream, berries and/or cocoa nibs, for garnish Method: In a food processor, combine avocados, yogurt, milk, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla, salt and spice(s), if using. Process until very smooth. Refrigerate until chilled.

Serve in individual bowls, either alone or parfait style, layered with whipped cream and berries.

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GINGER AND MOLASSES ENERGY BARS The key to a good snack is to combine protein, carbs and fat to help you feel satiated, writes registered dietitian Charlie Watson in “Cook, Eat, Run,” a cookbook for runners. These energy bars taste like an Archway cookie.

Ingredients: cup old-fashioned oats 1 cups all-purpose flour, sifted \ teaspoon cloves 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon baking soda cup vegetable or avocado oil 2 tablespoons molasses cup light brown sugar 1 large egg, beaten 2 tablespoons chopped candied ginger, optional Method: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.

In large bowl, mix together oats, flour, cloves, cinnamon, ginger and baking soda. In separate bowl, whisk together oil, molasses, brown sugar and egg.

Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir to combine; the mixture will be thick. Spoon mixture into prepared pan and spread into corners. Sprinkle candied ginger on top, if using.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until top is golden and crisp and middle is just set.

Leave to cool in pan then cut into 24 squares. Will keep for up to five days in an airtight container.

CRISPY CHICKPEAS If you love snacks with crunch, these toasted chickpeas will make you happy. They’re loaded with fiber, zinc, folate and protein and also are gluten-free and vegan. Feel free to experiment with a variety of spices.

Ingredients: 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed and drained 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil teaspoon smoked paprika teaspoon garlic powder teaspoon sea salt teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional Method: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour chickpeas onto a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and thoroughly pat dry.

Place chickpeas in bowl, and toss with oil and spices. Transfer to baking sheet and spread out in single layer.

Bake for 20 minutes, stir and return to oven for 10 more minutes or until extra crispy. Allow chickpeas to cool completely before serving.

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