Emirates Woman - January 2024

A MOTIVATE PUBLICATION

JANUARY 2024

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THE ALIGNMENT ISSUE Mind, Body & Soul

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THE DUBAI MALL - AHMED SEDDIQI & SONS www.perseeparis.com

FAS H I O N

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Obaid Humaid Al Tayer MANAGING PARTNER AND GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice EDITOR/ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Amy Sessions amy.sessions@motivate.ae SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Olga Petroff DIGITAL EDITOR Ruman Baig DIGITAL STYLE EDITOR Sarah Joseph FASHION EDITOR Camille Macawili JUNIOR DESIGNER Charissa Canlas EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Londresa Flores GENERAL MANAGER PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar PRODUCTION MANAGER Binu Purandaran PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Venita Pinto CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne GROUP SALES MANAGER Chaitali Khimji chaitali.khimji@motivate.ae GROUP MARKETING MANAGER Joelle Albeaino WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi CONTRIBUTORS Joëlle Albeaino, Izzy Turner, Mark Mathew, Ahmed Abd El-Wahab, Guido Duken

HEAD OFFICE Media One Tower, Dubai Media City, PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE, Tel: (+971) 4 4273000, Fax: (+971) 4 4282261, E-mail: motivate@motivate.ae DUBAI MEDIA CITY SD 2-94, 2nd Floor, Building 2, Dubai, UAE, Tel: (+971) 4 390 3550, Fax: (+971) 4 390 4845 ABU DHABI PO Box 43072, UAE, Tel: (+971) 2 677 2005, Fax: (+971) 2 677 0124, E-mail: motivate-adh@motivate.ae SAUDI ARABIA Regus Offices No. 455 - 456, 4th Floor, Hamad Tower, King Fahad Road, Al Olaya, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Tel: (+966) 11 834 3595 / (+966) 11 834 3596, E-mail: motivate@motivate.ae LONDON Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK, E-mail: motivateuk@motivate.ae

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Editor’s Letter

enable you to kick off the New Year with confidence Welcome to The Alignment Issue. from body, mindset and goal setting. With a laser I would like to thank an incredible team for digging focus on all things wellness and fitness related deep in 2023 and supporting us to achieve all we have as you might expect for January, we look at game– championing incredible women and supporting changing activewear in The Edit on page continued growth across both Emirates 22; Kuldeep Knox, Founder of Ch mpo Woman and Emirates Man. Thank you for always choosing the uncrowded extra discusses a natural approach to creating NEVER mile to demonstrate your strengths a product, defining a brand identity and HIDE YOUR and retaining a focus on quality over scaling business in The Hair Guru on page MAGIC. quantity in all aspects, it is truly 68; and globally renowned Marisa Peer, appreciated and what we do daily would founder of RTT (Rapid Transformational not be possible without each of you.

Therapy) delivers the tools to living your For January’s cover we partnered with FitnGlam, optimal life in 2024 in Master the Mind on page 72. founded by Helena Hijazi. Hijazi shares how she Finally, some of the most incredible women we embarked on a journey to transform the landscape know tell us what living in alignment means to them of women’s fitness in the region in Raising The Bar in Alignment on page 94. on page 18. In this issue, you will find everything to Never hide your magic – Happy New Year!

Amy Sessions EDITOR / ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

T H E H E R O B U YS

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Airbrush stretch leggings Dhs439 ALO

The Eye Patches 6 Pack Dhs414 Augustinus Bader

TechLoom Tracer mesh sneakers Dhs967 APL Athletic Propulsion Labs

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PUBLISHED IN ASSOCIATION WITH

CONTENTS January 2024

The Monitor Monitor News p.12 Social Listings p.13 Align – Cover Shoot with FitnGlam p.14 Raising The Bar – Founder of FitnGlam, Helena Hijazi, shares how she embarked on a journey to transform the landscape of women’s fitness in the region p.18

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The Hair Guru – An interview with Kuldeep Knox, Founder of Chāmpo p.68

The Slouch – For slow mornings and mindful ease p.24

Beauty Hot New Buys p.66 Master the Mind – An interview with Marisa Peer, Founder of RTT (Rapid Transformational Therapy) p.72

Fashion The Edit – The best workout wear for a sculpted 2024 p.22 A New Code – Align with full spectrum colour at Missoni CR24 p.40

Supplement – Peace, calm and optimal function p.78

A Clear Vision – Sophie Bille Brahe redefines opulence through a clear vision of minimalistic Scandinavian sensibility for SS24 p.46

Level Up – Homegrown activewear brands to supercharge your new fitness routines p.54 Anti-Alignment – Sportmax delivers an interplay of opposites for CR24 p.62

The Transformation Coach – Meena Samara removes energy blocks, to help build the life and bank balance of your dreams p.74 Intuitive Healing – How healing practitioner Gaetano Vivo uses his visionary approach to deep-heal stress, depression, injury and

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CONTENTS January 2024

The Ones to Watch – An edit of the brands to keep on your radar for new year p.26

Passion And Purpose – An interview with Kintsugi Founder and wellness guru, Patrizia Bortolin p.96

Lifestyle

illness through the power of the heart p.76 A New Wellness Frontier – An interview with Maryam Meddin, Founder of The Soke, a mental health and wellness clinic in London p.84 A Tailored Approach – How former Olympic athlete, Sarah Lindsay, has carved a name for herself in the fitness industry through ROAR Fitness p.86 Movement – How Kris Rai, Co-Founder of Joint Space, is revamping

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Alignment – What living in alignment means to nine incredible women p.94

the wellness landscape through physical therapy p.88 Beauty Shelf – Zoya Sakr, Founder of The Flower Society p.90 AM/PM Beauty – Author of MANIFEST, Roxie Nafousi p.92

taking your spin class to the next level p.106 Personal Space – In the office with Linda Sakr, Founder of Keyani p.108

Healing Sound – The best sound healing therapies p.100

The Wanderlust – Wellness retreats around the world p.112

The Real Relax – Nine stress reduction techniques for optimal health in 2024 p.102

Take The Wellness Plunge – A wellness deep-dive at a picturesque resort in the Maldives p.116

The Body Architect – An interview with Jackson Litchfield p.104 A Serious Ride – The fitness studios

The Directory p.120 Most Wanted – Aromatic Reset – D.S. & Durga p.122

FitnGlam

Elevate your content strategy mmgsocial.com

A New Start

THE HERO BUYS

The latest launches, new openings and hero buys WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

THE BASICS The newest Sporty & Chic collection from AMADA introduces four eye-catching styles with contrasting white trim to accentuate the female form.

Calista Cat-Eye Acetate Sunglasses Dhs1,386 Saint Laurent Eyewear

Penelope Micro Leather Shoulder Bag Dhs2,140 Wandler

THREE TO OWN

Jasmin 17 Eau De Parfum, 50ml Dhs840 Le Labo

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14-Karat Gold, Pearl and Amethyst Earrings Dhs2,516 Mateo

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Replica Springtime in a Park Candle Dhs235 Maison Margiela Beauty

Rebecca Whipstiched Suede Slides Dhs3,350 Chloé

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

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Resort Cutout Twill Maxi Dress Dhs1,547 St. Agni available at NET-A-PORTER

THE MONITOR

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@sportyandrich

@crank.uae

@fitnglamgym

Vintage inspired sportswear.

The UAE’s most loved spinning boutique fitness studio.

A revolutionary space created for women by women.

@kintsugispace

@marisapeertherapy

@1rebel_uae

Find your frequency at this exquisite sanctuary to rest.

Celebrity therapist and founder of RTT.

The ultimate high-intensity fitness destination.

@sophiebillebrahe

@jointspacedxb

@thesokelondon

Modern, minimalist jewellery pieces.

A community that supports movement.

Adapt a multi-disciplinary approach for an enhanced sense of wellness.

Social Listings

A curated guide of wellness accounts to #follow this month C O M P I L E D BY: S A R A H J O S E P H

THE MONITOR

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ALIGN WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

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PHOTOGRAPHER: GREG ADAMSKI

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Raise your wellness game with FitnGlam for 2024

C R E AT I V E D I R E CT I O N : C A M I L L E M AC AW I L I & A M Y S E S S I O N S

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MAKEUP & HAIR: ANIA PONIATOWSKA AT MMG; MODEL: YANA DOLOMANOVA AT MMG; STYLING WITH THANKS TO THE GIVING MOVEMENT

COVER STORY

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RAISING THE BAR Founder of FitnGlam, Helena Hijazi shares how she embarked on a journey to transform the landscape of women’s fitness in the region WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

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COVER STORY

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IMAGES: SUPPLIED; PORTRAIT BY GREG ADAMSKI

What inspired you to launch FitnGlam? After moving to Dubai, I struggled to find a fitness space that catered exclusively to women, offering both privacy and a full range of equipment and services. The mixed gyms had small, under-equipped women-only areas. I envisioned a place where women could comfortably access all forms of fitness and wellness under one roof – cardio, weights, classes, and community – without the need to compromise. This was the inspiration behind FitnGlam.

The facility also has direct access to a CRYO clinic, providing members with a rounded holistic journey – tell us more. We aim to offer as much value as possible to our members and our partnership with CRYO adds an exciting dimension to the FitnGlam experience. We want to provide a well-rounded approach to health and fitness and ensure our community has access to the latest and most effective wellness therapies. Cryotherapy has a lot of benefits, such as reducing muscle soreness, inflammation and accelerating recovery after workouts. I personally use CRYO and love the experience. It is now a key part of my wellness practises and perfectly complements my fitness routine.

You’ve created a place in the UAE where women could just be themselves – was this the plan from the outset? Yes, absolutely – since day one, our focus with FitnGlam was to build a space where women could truly be themselves. We recognised the need for a fitness and wellness facility for women that catered to more than just the physical aspects of exercise. We wanted to create a space where women could feel entirely comfortable, both physically and emotionally, to embark on their fitness journeys. In many fitness settings, women can sometimes feel selfconscious or judged, which can be a significant barrier to achieving their goals. We wanted to break down those barriers and have an environment where women of all backgrounds, fitness levels, and ages could come together, support one another, and focus on their individual aspirations without any fear of judgment.

FitnGlam has handpicked personal trainers and nutrition coaches who work with clients on custom plans. Can you expand on this? Our approach is personalised for each individual member. We start by simply having an open and honest conversation about your goals, expectations, fitness experience, and dietary needs. From there, our expert trainers and nutrition coaches collaborate to create tailored plans that align with your individual needs. These plans might incorporate strength training, cardio, or classes depending on your preferences, with a balanced dietary plan to complement your fitness and health journey.

Our members’ success is our success, so we stay involved every step of the way to provide guidance, support, and motivation throughout the process and to ensure the results are long-term.

To refuel, guests can visit PROTEINHOUSE – how important was it to have a dining space that complements the wellness element? We all know that fitness is not just about the exercises you do; it’s also about what you eat and the nutrition you provide your body. That is why we partnered with PROTEINHOUSE. It’s a place where members can grab a nutritious meal, snack, or smoothie pre- or post-workout, giving them the right fuel to make the most out of their fitness journey. We actually worked with PROTEINHOUSE to create a bespoke menu for FitnGlam centered around women – with preferred sizes, ingredients, and nutritional profiles that support a healthy, active female lifestyle. This means the food not only tastes great but also complements the specific nutritional needs of our members, whether they’re looking to build muscle, lose weight, or simply maintain a balanced diet.

COVER STORY

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“For me, alignment comes from staying active and moving my body.”

The gym has everything from boxing, Barre, yoga to Pilates – what are some of the main classes offered? We offer all sorts of classes for different interests and fitness levels. Our most popular classes are HIIT, Cycle, and Boxing for intense, calorie-burning sessions, yoga for flexibility and mindfulness, and Pilates for core strengthening and toning. We also offer specialised classes like dance-based workouts, and Barre for those who enjoy a mix of ballet, Pilates, and yoga. Our classes are boutique and specifically designed for women, so our members can always find something that resonates with their personal fitness journey.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced and how did you overcome it? One of the most significant challenges we faced in the journey of establishing FitnGlam was entering the highly competitive fitness industry, particularly with

our women-only concept. Initially, it felt like a huge risk, as many people warned us against excluding men from our clubs and cutting off half the potential customers. However, we wanted to stay true to our vision. We knew there was a specific need in the market for a fitness and wellness space dedicated solely to women. By focusing on this niche and building a club to suit the preferences of women from all walks of life, we not only stood out but also created a strong brand identity. This was ultimately our greatest strength, as it allowed us to build a community of over 8,000 women strong and an environment where women could feel comfortable, empowered, and supported on their fitness and wellness journeys.

Do you enjoy managing the commercial or creative side of the business? My background is in the commercial side of business, but I would say that over time I have gravitated more towards the creative side. I felt this shift when we were developing the concept of FitnGlam, as I was trying to incorporate my own passion and vision into every aspect of the experience. I wanted to empower women through my own experiences with fitness and wellness but also through our shared experiences as women.

This required a lot of creativity and reflection, and it has been really fulfilling to help shape the fitness experience at FitnGlam in this way. However, I also enjoy the commercial aspects of business and it is important to strike the right balance between both sides. So, I make sure to divide my focus and time on the commercial side to make sure we are running a sustainable business but also on the creative side to continue evolving and innovating the brand in ways that resonate with our community.

What piece of advice would you tell your younger self? I would tell my younger self to trust the journey and not to fear taking risks. It’s important to believe in your vision, even if it seems overwhelming or unconventional at first. Also, I would say to never underestimate the power of hard work and even failure. There will always be challenges and setbacks in anything we do, but these are important learning opportunities.

Embrace them, learn from them, and use them to become the best version of yourself.

This is The Alignment Issue – what activities help you align yourself in daily life? For me, alignment comes from staying active and moving my body. I’ve found that this not only boosts my energy levels but also helps in maintaining focus and clarity in other areas of my life. I try to prioritise regular exercise, whether it’s a gym workout, a yoga session, or simply a walk outside. This is a key part of maintaining both my physical and mental health. Also, making time and spending time with my family. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of daily responsibilities, but for me spending time with my family provides a sense of grounding and connection that is so important for my overall alignment.

COVER STORY

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THE EDIT

The best workout wear for a sculpted 2024 WORDS & STYLING: AMY SESSIONS

Below: Long Sleeve Top Dhs285 Alo Yoga

TruePace stretch-recycled sports bra Dhs367 Adidas by Stella McCartney

Align high-rise leggings - 25" Dhs375 Lululemon

ES Giant embroidered, quilted leather weekend bag Dhs18,300 Saint Laurent

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Flow Y Nulu sports bra Dhs159 Lululemon

Appliquéd ribbed-knit shorts Dhs383 Sporty & Rich

TruePace printed stretch recycled leggings Dhs475 Adidas by Stella McCartney available at NET-A-PORTER

Swiftly Tech 2.0 stretch top Dhs281 Lululemon

Cavello cotton-blend jersey and ribbed-knit turtleneck sweater Dhs535 Varley

TechLoom Tracer mesh sneakers Dhs966 APL Athletic Propulsion Labs

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THE SLOUCH For slow mornings and mindful ease

WORDS & STYLING: AMY SESSIONS

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Cotton-blend jersey track pants Dhs292 SKIMS

Ribbed-silk ankle socks Dhs279 Raey

Printed suede bomber jacket Dhs5,911 HALFBOY

Above: Cropped cotton-blend jersey hoodie Dhs1,690 Sacai

Hoodie Dhs129 Zara; Plush Joggers Dhs149 Zara

Shell tapered track pants Dhs2,066 WARDROBE. NYC

Made in UK 991 suede and mesh trainers Dhs 775 New Balance available at MATCHES

This and left page:

Cotton-blend jersey hoodie Dhs309 SKIMS French cotton-terry sweatpants Dhs661 James Perse

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Róhe Guided by a philosophy rooted in minimalism, the duo thoughtfully crafts designs to elevate your every day. Established in 2021 by Marieke Meulendijks and Maickel Weyers in Amsterdam, Róhe stands for quiet confidence. The collections – which extends to beautiful decor and home objects – are defined by their serene beauty and exceptional craftsmanship with an unexpected edge.

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WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

An edit of the brands to keep on your radar for the new year

THE ONES TO WATCH FAS H I O N

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The Ones to Watch

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The Garment The strength of this Copenhagen-born label lies within the magic between its founders, who each possess a refined and honed eye for design, Sophia Roe and Charlotte Eskildsen. The Garment eschews nostalgia through its vintage-inspired details and impeccable tailoring for that unmatched Scandi sartorial sensibility.

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The Ones to Watch

All Blues By sourcing local and recycled material and abiding by a bold minimalist mantra, All Blues devises modern jewellery styles that endure. Founded in 2009 by Jacob Skragge, each piece from this Stockholm-based label is handcrafted by local goldsmiths.

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The Ones to Watch

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Esse Studios Australian designer Charlotte Hicks founded Esse Studios after becoming frustrated by the sheer volume of waste produced by the Fashion industry. On a mission to produce lasting womenswear, the Zimmerman designer alumni creates slowrelease capsule collection’s intended to be interchangeable and fluid.

The ready-to-wear lifestyle brand is designed for the woman who takes a considered approach to style and consumes fashion in a mindfully conscious way. essestudios.com

Objets Daso This luxury handbag label is brought to life by creative duo, Catherine Whang and Pratik Vyas. The emerging brand is an exploration into the beauty of everyday moments transformed into extraordinary objects. For its inaugural release, Volume 1 is an edit of a series of functionally beautiful handbags inspired by 1950s nostalgia and its feminine icons during this time.

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The Ones to Watch

Bettter Stylist Julie Pelipas’s label is at the forefront of fashion innovation, delivering style with substance. Her label, Bettter, leads the industry with upscaled designs with staying power crafted with carefully upcycled technologies.

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The Ones to Watch

Tove An advanced contemporary womenswear brand that achieves a deft balance of modernity and elegant femininity, TOVE was founded

by Camille Perry and Holly Wright in 2019. Its design ethos is centered on sustainability and timeless quality of enduring pieces with a distinct graceful silhouette.

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Studio Amelia Realised between London and Sydney, Studio Amelia launched in May 2019. A refined spirit with a sense of individuality mark the offerings of this contemporary womenswear brand, with pieces that imbue unconventional minimalism.

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The Ones to Watch

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CODE A NEW

Align with full spectrum colour at Missoni CR24

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WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

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CREATIVE DIRECTOR: FILIPPO GRAZIOLI; PHOTOGRAPHER: WALTER PIERRE; STYLIST: LORENZO POSOCCO

FAS H I O N

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WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

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Sophie Bille Brahe redefines opulence through a clear vision of

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MODEL: ISELIN STEIRO; PHOTOGRAPHER: CASPER SEJERSEN

minimalistic Scandinavian sensibility for SS24

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IN PARTNERSHIP

ALIGNED PURPOSE The Countess Donatella Pecci-Blunt, lives in alignment with the values of grace and poise across many facets of business

C

WORDS: RUMAN BAIG

ountess Donatella Pecci-Blunt is a distinguished figure celebrated in the realms of royalty, art, and culture. Her expansive journey includes everything from the international stage to the heart of Rome’s intellectual salons, where celebrated figures like Gina Lollobrigida, Sophia Loren, and Andy Warhol gathered at her Palazzo. Countess Pecci-Blunt’s life is a tapestry woven with threads of art, culture, and business acumen.

As a tastemaker, she ventured into fashion and perfumery, creating many legendary fra-

grances for the brand, The Royal Lifestyle, she co-founded with her husband Jack Charles.

Her global soirees hosted politicians, artists, and Hollywood icons, a testament to her multifaceted persona.

With poise and grace, she declined political roles, choosing a path that reflects her unique classiness. Now, she embraces the essence of her captivating nature by creating fragrances that leave a lasting impression.

Countess Donatella Pecci-Blunt’s current vision is to capture your olfactory senses, one delicious perfume at a time.

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The Famous Roman Royalty and International Celebrity Countess Donatella Pecci-Blunt takes the Jumeriah Lake Towers area by her regal storm launching her Italian restaurant La Contessa.

Enter La Contessa, the crowning jewel in her opulent legacy. From fine fragrances to exclusive golfing clubs and silver-screen masterpieces, the Countess has woven a tapestry of luxury. Now, she invites you to indulge in the symphony of flavours that is La Contessa – an Italian restaurant like no other.

In the realm of Mediterranean cuisine, our menu is a masterpiece, a testament to the Countess’s refined taste and magnetic charm. Crafted with precision and sophistication, it beckons you into a world where each dish is a manifestation of culinary artistry.

La Contessa is more than a restaurant; it’s a manifestation of a versatile legacy, a symphony of flavours orchestrated by a Countess with a penchant for perfection. Join us on a journey where luxury meets gastronomic brilliance and let the echoes of our story linger on your palate, forever etched in the memories of fine dining connoisseurs. Welcome to La Contessa, where every bite tells a tale of regality and indulgence.

Lake Level, Fortune Tower Cluster C, Jumeirah Lake Towers, Dubai. Tel: 04 529 9551 www.lacontessa.ae

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LEVEL UP

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FIFTY MADE Activewear meets streetwear for a new luxury sustainable brand behind The Giving Movement, FIFTY MADE. Designed by Nicoletta Ginetti, the inaugural collection introduces futuristic silhouettes with functional detailing crafted from a range of sustainable materials. Each limited piece is made with precision for a unique and standout style.

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

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Hunn Active The homegrown female-led brand makes fitness accessible through its wear-everywhere designs of studio-to-street activewear including rib knit leggings, sports bras, and jackets in an aesthetically pleasing palette.

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THE TRUENUDE THE TRUENUDE is a female-first activewear brand, founded by Nawel Aderghal, that celebrates femininity and power among all women. The collections offer a versatile range of workout essentials with a contemporary feel in neutral tones that you can easily incorporate into your on-duty uniform.

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The Ones to Watch

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Left page: IKASU The Dubai-based sustainable activewear brand is consciously conceptualised to inspire an active lifestyle and crafted to embody confidence. Established in 2021, the homegrown label continues to grow strength to strength through its collaborations with inspirational female figures in the Middle East including Emirates Woman Awards “Editor’s Choice” winner and entrepreneur Mona Bin Kalli, athlete Haya Sawan, and more.

This page: Activeist Driven by the pursuit to champion environmental stewardship, Activeist serves a lineup of sustainably made cool-girl workout basics. Headlined by relaxed silhouettes and a vibrant aesthetic, this homegrown label ensures your fitness game is on point.

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AMADA Created for an active and modern lifestyle, AMADA headlines sporty and chic designs with a second-skin feel rendered in flattering earthy tones. Each enduring piece allows you to seamlessly mix and match into your existing everyday outfits. The designs are led by simplicity with practical additions for a luxurious and comfortable fit needed for high-performance workouts or just hanging out.

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Sportmax delivers an interplay of opposites for CR24

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ALIGNMENT P H OTO G R A P H Y: A N N E M A R I E K U U S

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

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Previous pages: (left) Wool Canvas Short Sleeve Blazer, Organza Printed Tunic, Cotton Jersey Long Sleeve T-Shirt, LowRise Wool Trousers, Printed Leather Mules; All Sportmax; (right) Double-Breasted Cotton Jersey Blazer, Tulle Printed Long Sleeve T-Shirt; All Sportmax

Above: Bomber Jacket, Pure Cotton Poplin Shirt, Wool Canvas Wrap Skirt, Wool Trousers; All Sportmax STYLIST: ELODIE DAVID TOUBOUL; MODELS: FRANZISKA JETZEK & PAULINE NAUCZYCIEL

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Right: Cotton Jersey Rib Tank Top, Turn Up Denim Jeans, Leather Pumps; All Sportmax FAS H I O N

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Hot New Buys WORDS : SARAH JOSEPH

Wellness-inspired beauty products to elevate your new year regime

POWERFUL BOTANICALS This highly absorptive formula calms skin chafing with its antibacterial properties. Damp to Dry Body Powder Dhs128 Esker

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Mood-Booster

Calm your state of mind instantly with just a few spritzes and notes of clary sage, vetiver and more. Water Therapy, 50ml Dhs490 The Nue Co.

MOISTURE-LOCKING This formula gives the illusion of a dramatic lift by targeting dark circles and dullness. Light Reflecting Eye Brightener Dhs130 NARS

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NOURISHED This clean, powerful formula targets your lashes and brows with underlying nutrients. Lash + Brow Serum Dhs264 Nu Colour

Shimmering Glow This lightweight honey-infused body oil delivers instant deep hydration. Body Oil Golden Shimmer Glow Dhs99 Gisou

INSIDE-OUT CLEANSING Glow right from the start of your skin care routine with this foaming formula that helps bind moisture. Milky Mushroom Gentle Cleansing Oil, 30ml Dhs70 Kora Organics

Ultra-Buildable

Cheat your way to a no make-up look with Guerlain’s second-skin formula. Le Teint Healthy Glow Natural Perfection Foundation Dhs235 Guerlain

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RADIANT SHINE It combines every effective element of the Vanilla Planifolia plant with Swertia extract to rejuvenate the skin. Ultimate Repair Cream Sublimage L’Extrait De Crème Dhs2,846 Chanel Beauty

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WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

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Kuldeep Knox, Founder of Chāmpo, launched the brand in 2019 inspired by her grandmother’s cherished ayurvedic remedies and driven by a personal quest to combat thinning hair. We discuss a natural approach to creating a product, defining a brand identity and scaling business BEAUTY

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What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? I have an ayurvedic start to the day by detoxing with a glass of warm water, followed by a lemon and ginger tea or a ginger shot. I then review my to do list and segment my day out. I like to work in sprints so I’ll section my day out into four to five sprints focusing on different areas of the business. I really enjoy a quick morning meditation, usually no longer than 8 to 10 minutes. Sometimes I pick a guided one by Deepak Chopra and set an intention for the day. I also love to start my day with a long walk to work, our offices are based in the Strand and I have a lovely route along Chancery Lane.

It gives me time to think creatively – I’ve often done a lot of strategic planning and problem solving before I’ve arrived at the office.

Ch�mpo is the fastest growing beauty company in the UK and the best-selling haircare brand in Harrods. What is at the core of the brand and how did you know it was the right time to launch? I couldn’t find the product I was looking for – a product that was high-performance, natural and would deliver clinically proven results for hair thinning. I really believed in the customer need for Ch mpo and felt there had been a lack of innovation in haircare – I believed I could create something better than what existed.

What ayurvedic principles do you incorporate within the brand? Our approach to hair diagnostics; our products are split into three different ranges named after the ayurvedic doshas. This helps us to identify hair traits and tailor haircare to individual needs. Each range has a hero ayurvedic ingredient that powers it. For example, our best-selling Pitta Volumising and Growth range contains Harataki fruit which is a powerful ayurvedic ingredient that is brilliant for strengthening and nourishing hair and creating a scalp environment that’s optimal for hair growth.

How long was it from concept to launch and how many rounds of product did you go through before you were happy with the results? It was around two years from concept to launch and we went through many, many rounds of formulation before launch. In fact, the team of chemists I worked with had +25 years of formulation experience and they had never created as many samples for any other brand as they did for us. It was so important to me to set a new benchmark for what natural haircare performance could be. It was worth the perseverance as our clinical and user claims are really outstanding and we have very high customer repeat rates.

In the beauty industry – how important is branding to success?

The challenge with our branding was that I wanted to create something that would look good on the bathroom shelf as well as tell the untold story of haircare. Ch mpo is the original word for sham-

poo and was invented in India. In order to tell this story, we created bespoke product packaging and considered every element of the branding – from the ring cap on the bottle that’s inspired by an Indian vase to the range marks that are inspired by sanskrit calligraphy. I wanted to create brilliant formulas with a luxe and fashion-led aesthetic that women could really enjoy using. I believe branding works well when it’s truly authentic and you’re telling a story that’s deeply personal and rich. This energy really comes across through the brand and how it makes customers feel.

Can you expand on why this works? Our Pitta Growth Serum is the best-selling haircare product in Harrods and we now sell one every minute. It’s a technically advanced formula that contains Harataki fruit, a tetrapeptide complex and red clover that work together to reduce hair loss and shedding, stimulate new hair growth and strengthen hair.

How effective is it and how long does it take to start seeing results?

The clinical and user results for our best-selling Pitta Growth serum are really outstanding. Ninety per cent of all testers saw less hair loss, 92% had stronger hair and 88% saw thicker, fuller hair with 12 weeks of daily use. The product is clinically proven to leave hair 4x stronger.

Since its inception, Ch�mpo has sold over a million products, how do you scale without compromising on quality? We do this by setting very clear definitions of what quality looks like, this is really important when you have high performance and technically advanced formulas.

We then implement brand owned quality control checks throughout our manufacturing process to ensure every product meets our high standards.

What have been the most challenging or rewarding aspects to date and why? Building company culture has been one of the most enjoyable and rewarding aspects of the journey so far. I wanted to build a culture that was customer centric and create a work environment where people could perform and work collaboratively together. It makes it a joy to come to work every day!

Have you had any mentors and if so, what advice did they impart?

My mother, also an entrepreneur, has been a mentor to me and taught me the importance of thinking big and being bold. Our goal is to be the number one luxury haircare brand in the world and in a few short years we’ve already become the fastest growing beauty business in the UK – if you set bold goals, you may surprise yourself by what you can achieve.

What advice would you give your younger self? Don’t sweat the small stuff and keep focused on the bigger picture. You’ll achieve more if you focus your time on the important things, our output is ultimately a reflection of where we spend our time.

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“You’ll achieve more if you focus your time on the important things, our output is ultimately a reflection of where we spend our time.”

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WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

Marisa Peer, Founder of RTT (Rapid Transformational Therapy) discusses changing the game for so many and how we support the young generation to live optimal lives

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orld-renowned therapist and best-selling author Marisa Peer, is one of the most recognised names in the wellbeing industry. Over her 30-year career, she has worked with a client list that includes international superstars, CEOs, and Olympic athletes, using her unique therapy method – Rapid Transformational Therapy® (RTT®). After seeing huge success in her private practice and transforming the lives of thousands of clients, in 2015, Marisa established the RTT® School and has helped to train over 16,000 therapists globally. A sought-after public speaker, Marisa has spoken on stages across the world at a number of major events, including Mindvalley Live, the World Government Summit, Greator Festival, The had already had years of therapy, but it didn’t Royal Society of Medicine, and A-Fest – and seem to be helping them. I knew I wanted a has delivered a number of highly successful change of direction at the time, so I decided TEDx talks. In 2021, she created The 5-Day to go on a mission to help people like these Challenge, a free resource aimed at 6 to women to believe that they ARE enough.

11-year-olds to help them build self-confiI studied for an advanced certification in Hypnotherapy at the Hypnotism Training dence and resilience. Developed in conjuncInstitute of Los Angeles with the legendary tion with teachers, the Challenge has been Gil Boyne, who was a huge leader in the field, accessed by thousands of schools globally followed by further training in hypno-healand has been recognised within the education industry as a powerful wellbeing tool. ing, advanced hypnotherapy, medical hypnoWhat do the first 30 mins of your day look therapy, Gestalt Analysis, and anti-ageing, health and long-term wellness techniques. like, your morning routine? I always practise After I got qualified, I knew I wanted to go gratitude, as soon as I open my eyes, I say, beyond traditional hypnosis and develop a “I love my life, I love my bed, I love my first cup of tea, etc. Having what I call an aptinew therapy that was supercharged and went straight to the root cause of the issues holdtude for gratitude makes life better and everything easier.” ing people back – and give them the power to move forward – negating the need for years of What is at the core of RTT and what was the expensive therapy. So, I spent three decades moment you remember thinking therapy researching, testing, and applying the most could be done in a much shorter time than trabeneficial principles of Hypnotherapy, Psyditionally? I moved to LA, aged 25, to work at Jane Fonda’s workout studio as a personal chotherapy, NLP, CBT, and Neuroscience to trainer and found myself surrounded by sucdevelop my very own groundbreaking Rapid cessful women who seemed to have it all but Transformational Therapy method. were struggling with eating disorders, low The power of RTT is that it uses the subself-esteem, and imposter syndrome. No conscious mind to get straight to the root matter what they did or what they achieved, cause of the issues holding a person back – they never believed they were good enough – giving them the understanding to reframe the but I could see that beyond their self-depreproblem and break free from it – then, using powerful NLP and hypnotherapy techniques, cating thoughts, there was absolutely nothrewire their brain for success. ing wrong with them! Many of these women

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Can you expand on why this works? RTT is unique. It has a personalised approach to working with clients – it’s not a ‘one size fits all’ therapy – it is completely tailored to a client’s issue and needs. As an RTT therapist, my role is to guide clients back to the root cause of the problems holding them back (rather than just treating the symptoms like many other therapies do) and reframe negative beliefs, values, habits, and emotions – many of which have been carried since childhood and have been so deeply buried in their subconscious that they are unaware of the past issues affecting them. By giving the client this understanding, it gives them the power to create change and transform their lives.

I have had numerous clients over the years who have come to me in desperation after being in therapy for many years but seeing very little in the way of results – and after just one session, they start to see shifts and changes in their behaviour and thinking.

How do we know if trauma is holding us back?

Trauma can manifest itself in many different ways and may not always be immediately apparent, but common signs include: Persistent Emotional Distress: Feelings of sadness, anxiety, anger, or numbness and difficulty managing or regulating emotions or experiencing intense emotional reactions without an apparent cause. Flashbacks and Intrusive Memories: Repressed trauma can resurface in the form of intrusive memories, nightmares, or flashbacks as you ‘relive’ distressing events from the past. Avoidance of Triggers: Actively avoiding people, places, or activities that remind them of the traumatic event. Difficulty Trusting Others: Trauma can erode trust, making it difficult for individuals to trust others. Negative Self-Perception: Trauma can significantly impact self-esteem and self-worth and lead to self-destructive behaviours. Difficulty Coping with Stress: Feeling overwhelmed, easily triggered, or having difficulty managing stress can also be a sign of unresolved trauma. Disrupted Sleep Patterns: Difficultly falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restful sleep may also be indicative of unresolved trauma.

How many sessions does it take to overcome trauma, and what would you say to those who are afraid of being hypnotized? The number of sessions needed will vary from person to person and depends on factors such as the nature, severity, and complexity of the trauma,

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Master the Mind

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the individual’s personal history, their level of resilience, and how they respond to the therapeutic process. In some cases, a single RTT session may be sufficient to address a specific issue or uncover the root cause of a problem.

For more complex trauma or multiple interconnected issues, additional sessions may be required. In many cases, individuals experience positive changes in a relatively short number of sessions, and some even report significant improvements after just one session.

However, it’s important to note that the resolution of trauma is a complex and individualised process, and my job is to work collaboratively with the client to get really clear on what they want to achieve from working with me, track their progress, and then determine the optimal number of sessions they might need. When it comes to hypnosis, the main concern I hear from people is that they worry that they will feel or be out of control – but the truth is that you can never say or do anything in hypnosis that you don’t want to do! Hypnosis does not put you to sleep, it wakes you up to your potential!

You’re working with schools – can you expand on how and why this is so important? The rise in childhood anxiety over the last few years, particularly following the pandemic, is really quite alarming and there is so much pressure on young people these days with the rise of the internet and social media. Today, we live in a world of picture-perfect social media posts, influencer culture, and reality TV shows that create this illusion of a dream lifestyle – young people achieving extraordinary goals and milestones in their 20s and 30s. With this as a backdrop, it’s no surprise that so many young people feel the pressure and need to keep up with others by following the latest trends and aspiring to this vision of the ideal life. They often validate their self-worth by the number of likes they get on social media rather than from their real world existence. While much of what is portrayed is smoke and mirrors, trying to keep up with this pretense and their own peers can be a huge drain mentally, financially, and socially and of course, much of what we see is a showreel rather than real life, but young people look up to these people as role models.

I have worked with children of all ages over the years, and what I really wanted to do was develop a programme that could be delivered to primary/ elementary school children at a time when they are first navigating their own way in the world. We launched the five-day I Can’t to I Can challenge in the UK a couple of years ago, followed by the US launch a few months later. Since then, it has been accessed by thousands of schools globally, is recognised within the education industry as a powerful wellbeing tool, and in 2022, was a semi-finalist at the Education Resources Award in the UK. Aimed at 6 to 11-year-olds and developed in conjunction with teachers, the programme teaches children simple mind hacks to help them understand how to master their own feelings, and instead of listening to their inner critical voice telling them they can’t, they learn to call on their inner cheerleader who will inform them that they can. We have just started working with City School Holding in Dubai to deliver the programme in their schools and are hoping to expand this further to schools across the UAE in the coming months.

You mention three commonalities that are at You recently moved to Dubai – what promptthe root of every client’s issues – can you exed the move? Dubai and its surrounding areas are very interested in mental health, and pand on what these are? In my 30+ years of I wanted to be very involved in that. working with clients on a range of issues, I have discovered three common themes at the Have you had any mentors, and if so, what heart of most people’s issues: advice did they impart? My mentors were Gil Boyne, David Viscott, and Wayne Dyer A feeling of not being enough: low self-worth, they all showed me that change is easy when confidence, and self-esteem. Feeling differyou know how! ent: not feeling connected and fearing rejection. Wanting something but feeling that it What advice would you give your younger is not available to them: a lack of self-worth self? Believe in yourself, follow your dreams, and know you are enough with something and self-belief that they can achieve whatever amazing to offer the world. they want in life.

What have been the most challenging or reIf we could all repeat one affirmation to ourwarding aspects to date and why? The chalselves daily – what should that be? One lenges initially were to have a brand new simple yet powerful phrase – I Am Enough therapy created by a woman recognised and – a statement of truth you tell yourself every day to remind you that you are already evaccepted, as for a time, therapy was very much a male-dominated world, but that erything you need to be and are exactly who has changed a lot in the 30+ years that I you are meant to be. However, it shouldn’t have been working. Having my schools’ probe confused with an image of perfection as there is no such thing. I Am Enough isn’t grammes recognised and credited as a tool about perfection at all, but instead acceptthat helps children’s development meant so much to me. RTT has won many awards, but ing who you are, flaws and all, and giving this is my absolute favourite. yourself the safe space you need to grow.

“I Am Enough isn’t about perfection at all, but instead accepting who you are, flaws and all, and giving yourself the safe space you need to grow.”

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THE TRANSFORMATION COACH Meena Samara removes energy blocks, to help build the life and bank balance of your dreams

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? I would love to say it involves an elaborate spiritual routine with incense and green tea. I am a mum of three.

The reality is 5 to 10 minutes of gratitude and connecting with my inner guidance system. I’m not naturally a morning person and my children are my greatest accountability buddies. Then helping the kids get ready for school and then, breathe.

What is at the core of what you do and how does it support your clients living their most optimal lives? We help entrepreneurs overcome the subconscious limitations that prevent them from achieving ultimate success and prosperity in their life and business.

Most of us agree, everything is energy.

The core of our work involves removing past traumas which leave negative energetic imprints in our physical bodies and energy field.

Some of these imprints come from family traumas that are past down the family line.

This negative energy is why we feel stuck in relationships or getting to that next level in life and business. This is due to us operating with those blockages and that’s why our life doesn’t flow so easily.

A lot of clients come having worked on their mindset which is a great place to start!

However, working on the mind alone does not take away the hidden energy in our field and that’s why we still feel we are not moving forward. We declutter our homes but when was the last time we decluttered our energy?

When we clear out our negative energy, we experience rapid and transformational results in our clarity, creativity and productivity. Therefore, we can effortlessly improve our prosperity because everything feels easier without the old stagnant energy holding us back. We see personal and professional relationships improve dramatically which as a re-

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the healing side. I discovered my healing abilities in my early twenties and was aware of my spiritual aspects from a young age. I continually developed this side of myself over the years but never talked about it openly; fearing judgement from the world.

For me, making the transition to share that side of my personality was a great challenge, I was never the product but always the person behind developing products and brands, now I needed to unveil my mask in the online world and show up as my true self. I had to go on a new internal journey to get through my own blocks about showing up in order to even get started. It was a very real road block and struggle for me. I invested in the help and support from experts that had been through and understood my challenges: this was beneficial for me on so many levels.

For me, the rewards come through daily. Seeing the changes in the lives of those we have the honour of serving. It’s common to see passionate, driven people struggling and feeling stuck in the same loop go on to double or triple their income. Furthermore, have a more balanced lifestyle sult leads to more connection and fulfilment. with more time for themselves and their Our clients report feeling more connected and loved ones. The greatest reward is seeing a courageous within themselves. In addition, a person shift in their own life purpose, espedeeper understanding of who they are and an cially, when people grow to the level of such internal knowing that everything is working expansion that they decide to also live a new out for them. There is a direct correlation belife of greater purpose. This is the beautiful ripple effect healing ourselves creates. tween removing the old blocks leading us to We work predominantly with entrepreneurs connect on a much deeper level with our own instincts, rather than looking to others for and something I discovered very early on, as guidance. It’s a very empowering result. a business owner myself, was that being in business is the greatest personal developCan you expand on why this works? We have developed a very efficient and effective mement journey a person can go on. thodical system which removes old and unHow do we know if trauma is holding us back? helpful energy from the body, chakras and We have challenges around finances or reenergy field. This thorough work creates lifelationship problems, which indicates we changing improvements consistently. have unhealed past wounds, often unknown A client likened it to having a full oil to us. We get upset and triggered by othchange on a car. Old oil gets congested with ers and it can feel like everyone we meet is muck with use. Changing the oil (or energy creating more challenges for us. We seem to in this case) allows the whole car to run have the same recurring problems in life. We much better, faster, and with total ease. suffer with stress or anxiety, often feeling overwhelmed and worried about the future.

What have been the most challenging or reAnxiety is something we are expected to just warding aspects to date and why? I come live with these days, but it’s an obvious sign; from a business background, my parents an energetic cry for help, that the body is in a had businesses and I went on to own and state of imbalance and something is wrong. run a business generating multiple millions, Another often hidden indication is we by the age of 29. I have always been a busihave great ideas of things we want to achieve, nesswoman through and through, so I unin business or our personal lives, we put the derstand that side of the business as well as

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work in and it’s sometimes even within reach but we just can’t seem to make it happen. We feel like nothing is actually moving forward and we are stuck in the same place. Or finding ourselves sabotaging our successes moving forward and then retracting back.

When we use the word trauma it doesn’t mean we went through an extreme experience; for some it can be simply having challenges with our relationship with one or both parents during childhood. Resulting in negative energy in our system which affects how we trust and relate to others.

How many sessions does it take to change a part of your life where there are blocks? This is something that happens instantly and in every session. There can be more layers to unravel as the person allows the process to unfold to see the full changes in your life. Everyone’s timing is different because some people have more to heal; although I would say for most it takes two to six weeks to notice the beneficial improvements. Beyond this we encourage people to approach healing as a process; to allow the full effects of the shifts and changes as the layers unfold. For this reason we offer a six-month programme of healing and support to really get things unlocked and create lasting changes. People usually contact us on Instagram to get started.

You talk about the power of forgiveness and its transformative powers – can you expand on this? Forgiveness is a gift you give to yourself. It’s the pathway to connecting with ourselves deeply. Any old resentments we hold on to are actually creating blocks between ourselves connecting within to our own internal truths and desires. This will directly be affecting how you connect with others because the resentment energy sits directly over the heart, amongst other places, so it affects our internal peace and access to feelings of joy within. It also impacts how others receive us. We may say, “but I have let that go and don’t even think about it anymore” but we often see things very differently when scanning a client’s energy field. If there are blocks or problems in one’s life there is something within that needs resolving.

The key to letting go of the resentment energy is taking the time to actively forgive.

Once you clear out this energy, you will feel an undeniable level of peace and inner connection with yourself. Others will also notice this change in you as you’ll be less triggered and angry outbursts become a thing of the past.

You mention commonalities that are at the root of every client’s issues – can you expand on what these are, and do they usually come from childhood? From childhood up to now we have all been through so many experiences, everything we went through holds energy, which is the making of who we are today.

We are attracting into our lives based on the quality of this energy. We know through

the work we do, that when the quality of the energy improves internally for a person, it will also follow suit and improve externally in their lives. As children we also absorbed the emotions our parents went through and from the environment we grew up in: even before we could comprehend what was happening.

Lots of beliefs were being created at the time based on our child level of comprehending the world. Resulting in lots of unhelpful subconscious beliefs that are blocking our personal growth and success as adults.

These childhood experiences cause many commonalities that we see, particularly emotional blocks including anxiety, overwhelmed, fear, low self-esteem, resentment and sadness which are areas we regularly work on with entrepreneurs especially. We also see a lot of people struggling with subconscious negative thinking. This generates a loop of increased emotions continuously affecting the energy field adding more negative energy to the field: unknowingly keeping us stuck.

How can we feel more connected to our inner self and listen to our gut? This is a relationship we build over time. It’s a process of trusting the guidance each time we hear the inner call, do this by actively listening and acknowledging your own knowing and lean in rather than ignore or doubting yourself.

By doing this more confidence and connection will build. Doing any kind of inner work will also advance this connection. Things like energy healing create easier connection as the blocks to connecting to ourselves are removed. In addition, dancing, meditation, yoga, running, sitting under flowing water all help. Ultimately, the trick is to quieten the mind so the soul can speak.

How do negative thoughts block us from creating what we desire? Our thoughts are also energy which we are creating moment to mo-

ment. It is pointless spending five minutes each morning focusing on your vision and desires but then spending most of the day doubting yourself, thinking/talking negatively about yourself or others and then wondering why your desires are not coming to you.

Whatever we are thinking is what we are creating; most of the time we are not even aware of our thoughts and how we are thinking. Our body doesn’t know if something is actually happening or just a thought. It responds to the negative fears and scenarios we are playing out in our thoughts as though it’s actually happening. Thus creating many internal responses and that is why we get stressed and overwhelmed with anxiety.

Have you had any mentors and if so, what advice did they impart? I had a great foundation of support, love and understanding growing up in an extended family. My Papa, (grandfather) was one of my first mentors who was an educated philosopher and well versed in many spiritual truths. He would often talk about the importance of having devotional faith in a higher power and trusting that any challenges in life will always come to pass. My favourite advice from him was to never give up, because we only fail in life when we stop trying, which I believe is how my faith and resilience was first born.

I have had much guidance during my life by those around me and along the journey. All imparting their golden gems, wrapped up as challenging and difficult characters, mixed in with handfuls of encouraging words and helping hands. I honour them all and would not be the person I am today without both.

What advice would you give your younger self? Life is like playing Super Mario, good and bad situations are playing out in order for you to be challenged, so you move and improve your game. The aim of the game is to cultivate and create a beautiful character within yourself because as you improve the world around you improves. If you do nothing, you stay at the same level but if you actively push yourself to learn and improve you get to advance the levels. There will be help along the way so look out for those willing to support your ventures. Don’t get discouraged in your difficult moments as it’s a sign a new breakthrough is imminent, when you get through a new level up, you will be gifted with much abundance and feel back to your best once more.

If we could all repeat one affirmation to ourselves daily – what should that be? Start with a smile – this is due to the body thinking something good is happening and opens us up to allow good things to occur. Then say…

I am happy and enjoying every moment of my life. I am excited for all the incredible things coming into my life daily. I have absolute faith that everything is always working in my favour and I am grateful to have success, abundance, happiness, good health and great relationships now.

“Whatever we are thinking is what we are creating; most of the time we are not even aware of our thoughts.”

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INTUITIVE HEALING

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? I get up early in the morning and I meditate for about 30 minutes every day, thanking the Universe for the beautiful mission I have been assigned, to help people discover themselves and to heal their souls. Meditation and sitting in silence are the best part of the morning and evening for me. Being grateful in the morning is one of the most important aspects of my day.

How did your journey with Reiki begin? My Reiki journey started over 35 years ago.

I used to have a bookshop in London called the Metaphysical Center where people would come to buy books and seek my advice. Many who would come would tell me that just sitting next to me, they would feel at peace and that I was a natural born healer. One day, a lady came in, saying that she was a Reiki master, and offered me a Reiki session. I was so in awe of this energy that she was channeling that I decided to take the first level course, then the second, and then on to the Mastership with William Rand in America (a renowned Reiki Master Teacher). In the years, my Reiki has developed more and more so much so that up until now I’ve trained

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more than 7,000 people in the world in the beautiful ancient healing Japanese technique. In the years of my journey, I have developed different aspects of Reiki and in these days, I practise my own Reiki giving treatments to people and teaching them how to do it on themselves, and how to treat others. I teach all over the world different Reiki practises that I have developed in these thirty-five years on this magnificent journey.

How can Reiki sessions enhance someone’s life and balance their chakras? Reiki is all about energy flow. When one chakra is blocked, we clear and cleanse that chakra to let the energy flow through the body again. Let’s say that I see a person whose third chakra, the solar plexus chakra whose colour is yellow, is completely blocked. Then with Reiki, you make them feel reassured and welcome. Solar plexus chakra is the house of anxiety, depression, insomnia and biggest of all it is the house of fear. We live in a world of fear, and we need to start clearing this chakra daily, in order to live our lives in a more spontaneous and free way. That’s why I insist on having all the chakras completely cleansed. Reiki helps to do just that, channeling energy from

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How healing practitioner Gaetano Vivo uses his visionary approach to deep-heal stress, depression, injury and illness through the power of the heart

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the Source, we can clear and cleanse chakras. Another very important centre is the Heart Chakra. If we have emotional problems through loss and the ending of relationships, this chakra blocks and Reiki and Vibrational energy can really heal the cause of the problems from the root. Often this happens repeatedly, since we have not healed the cause. We are all wounded children in the end. It is so very important to do this because once we have cleared the chakras, the energy flows freely in the body pushing away all the unwanted energy, and with Reiki, we replenish that energy that has left the body with clear, cleansed, and blessed energy. Giving the person a vital and vibrant energy all along.

Could you elaborate on the science behind energy work? The substance of everything in the world is energetic, including our thoughts. Quantum physics has scientifically demonstrated events that “science” would not consider possible. We are all energy and we are all one.

How do you begin the process of a healing session with a client? The person lies on a treatment table fully clothed, and the practitioner puts his hands on (with permission) or close to the body of the person in different positions to get the energy flowing.

Reiki energy pushes away unwanted energy in the body for the good energy to come through. The person at the end feels energised and at the same time very relaxed and calm. To clear different blockages, you might need multiple sessions. You establish that with the person as it is a very individual practise. Over the years, I have created my own technique on my Reiki sessions. To achieve maximum benefit from a session, I have divided my treatments into different modalities, such as looking at the person’s aura and through that looking at their chakra for balancing and aligning. I also give guidance to them through the so called “Invisible world” and then I end the treatment by giving a proper Reiki session.

You have touched the lives of many people with your work. Do you have a special moment with a client that remains with you? Recently, a lady came to me, and she had been suffering from migraines for over 25 years, and I could see her suffering very much.

My Reiki treatments is not only hands-on healing, but it is a host of modalities I have mastered in all these years. So, I decided to practise on her Vibrational Psychic surgery, where with a series of questions you can take the person in to verbalise what her maximum benefits out of it. Reiki helps heal the emotional problem is and with my Reiki dissolve the problem altopains that an individual goes through in his life. We are all wounded children, and we all need Reiki in our life. gether. So, this is just what happened to her. We decided that she needed four sessions in a row and after just the Tell us more about your workshops that take place in Dubai? I second session, her headache was starting to disappear so have been coming to the UAE for quite some time now. I work much that at the end of the four sessions, she was a difexclusively at a beautiful centre called the Keyani Health Center. I see people every day for one hour of treatment and also, I ferent person altogether. Reiki with Vibrational Psychic teach my certified Reiki courses. I am the founder of the Reiki surgery can help you with many physical pains that you have had for so many years, the important part is to talk to Vivo International School, and my diplomas are all certified by your pain through a series of questions I ask, and you will my school, where I teach Reiki and many other healing modalsee how energetically the pain goes from your etheric body ities to enhance the soul of people who come to seek guidance, and after that from your physical body. teaching love self-love.

What are some of the common reasons people come to What resources would you recommend to enhance this pracsee you? Reiki is a healing technique which helps put tise? Tell us more about the book you’ve written. I have pubthe body in balance through a therapeutic touch. I have lished many books and my latest one called PantaReiki has helped people suffering from emotions related to the heart come out first in my mother tongue which is Italian, then in when they have lost beloved ones or have been rejected Arabic and English. I feel very fortunate to have been able to for instance or people who have gone through depression, have my books translated into Arabic. A culture that I love. My anxiety, fears and insomnia. I have helped people sufferbook tells you all about my evolution as a very introverted boy from the man I have become today to the mission that I was ing from headaches and migraines. All these elements are given by God to help humanity through Reiki. related to blocked emotions, and once we clear those emotions, once we heal them then the body heals itself. It is This is The Alignment Issue – what activities help you align your not a matter of healing, one particular part of the body or daily life? Meditation is key to start your day and Self Reiki the physical body because Reiki does not work like that.

Practice to help you to start the day in a more aware way and to My Reiki works to heal the soul in order for you to receive enhance self-healing and others.

“Reiki is all about energy flow. So, when one chakra is blocked, we clear and cleanse that chakra to let the energy go through the body.”

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WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

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WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

A New Wellness Frontier Maryam Meddin, Founder of The Soke, a mental health and wellness clinic in London shares her tips on how to overcome stress in 2024 84 emirateswoman.com

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What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? My alarm usually rings at 5am, after which I take a shower, fuel my system with coffee and ready myself to be out of the house by 6am. Unless there’s something that’s pressing on my mind, that hour would have been all about catching up with the news from around the world and I’ll have tried not to think about work.

Talk us through your background. I was born in Iran but have spent most of my life in the UK, so I feel that I have the privilege of being enriched by two prominent cultures. There’s also been diversity in my professional life – I studied law, however later built a career in branding. When that was going well, I decided to explore my mental health through psychotherapy, which then led me to train as a psychotherapist, and finally towards the launch of The Soke.

What inspired you to launch The Soke? There was a lot of loss in the first 25 years of my life, including the loss of my father and brother so, from a purely personal perspective, The Soke is really dedicated to them. I was around 40 when I decided to try therapy and it was a defining experience for me. Ultimately it was through this process of both being a user and a provider of mental health services that I was able to identify shortcomings on both sides and wanted to create a service that tried to address them.

Tell us about the concept and what services does the clinic offer? We’re a private mental health centre with the full spectrum of services offered by psychiatrists, psychologists, psychotherapists and coaches. It was designed to enable individuals with everyday issues (anxiety, depression, ADHD and more) to get the services they needed from a place that would treat them as clients, not patients. People don’t necessarily always know how to find the most appropriate solution for their emotional or psychological problems, so I wanted The Soke to provide all the options under the same roof and to have a strong service element that would help clients navigate the pathway that would serve them best. We satisfy their curiosity and support them so that they can make their own informed choices. You cannot overestimate the value of providing these sorts of tangential services around mental health, especially to parents who feel incredibly vulnerable when trying to make decisions around the care of their children. I believe that by making people feel empowered around their psychological health they’ll start engaging with their thoughts and emotions in a way that’s conducive to improving their wellness and therefore their quality of life.

It’s no different to working with a personal trainer for your physical health: you fix the problem areas; you build strength and de-

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velop resilience in order to feel better overall.

The clinic offers best-in-class psychotherapists, psychiatrists, psychologists, counsellors and leadership development specialists – tell us more. Our practitioners cover a range of specialties, from depression to ADHD to compulsive behaviours and everything in between. They’re all chosen based on their expertise and experience, as well as their appetite to collaborate with their peers to ensure that clients get the benefit of their pooled knowledge through a daily Multi-disciplinary Team Meeting. Paying practitioners to spend time quite simply talking to each other and sharing their insights is a model that doesn’t really exist in the private outpatient world, and this sort of collaborative ethos is why we’ve been lucky enough to draw some of the leading names in our field. Increasingly our clients are based outside the UK, and they come to us because our Multidisciplinary clinical model combined with the service element doesn’t really exist where they’re based.

What are some of the major concerns that clients talk about? We’re inundated by calls requesting assessments: from ADHD to Educational Psychology and Autism – our primary responsibility is to make sure that concerns are reasonable, rather than say yes to everyone who wants to be tested. After that, it’s the ‘usual suspects’ of depression and anxiety – although we’re seeing much more of it in children than we used to. On the corporate side, workplace culture is playing an ever-growing role in the sustainability of organisations and so we work a lot with leaders who are striving to strike the balance between being a leader that performs (from a business perspective) and one that transforms (from a cultural perspective).

It demands a thoughtful type of leadership that allows consistency and change to coexist and increasingly modern leaders are recognising the need to have a ‘safe space’ to ruminate and develop their thoughts.

With stress levels constantly on the rise – what can help lower them? Naturally, I’m an advocate for talking – ideally to someone who doesn’t have a stake in your life and can help you to explore your anxieties without judgement or repercussion. Separate from that, I think that everyone should try to find that one space in their head, where going to it can bring them down from 100 to zero in a matter of minutes.

How can employers create a working culture that boosts business resilience and growth?

People in leadership positions need to lead by example: show strength in compassion and demonstrate a concerted effort to be a force for the good of the company’s people as well as its other stakeholders. The star players in any sector will want to work for those who can inspire them to succeed and

“I think that everyone should try to find that one space in their head, where going to it can bring them down from 100 to zero in a matter of minutes.” grow as individuals as well as professionals – attracting and retaining talent is always an excellent starting point for longevity.

What advice would you give to anyone who wishes to start therapy? A productive therapeutic process relies on the relationship of trust that exists between the client and practitioner – and that doesn’t come overnight, so after you’ve found someone with the right credentials, allow a couple of sessions to see if they feel right for you and whether you can envisage fully trusting this person at some point. That’s when the real work starts between you. Therapy isn’t designed to be fun – if you’re enjoying it because it’s easy then one of you isn’t doing your job right.

We all want to start the year on a positive note – what would you recommend? Find that one

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thing to do or that one place in your head that gives you peace and visit it frequently.

This is The Alignment Issue – what activities ensure you feel aligned daily? My alignment generally comes at the end of the day.

I try to spend some time alone with my own thoughts to process and be ready for whatever’s coming next. The Soke’s core value is Generosity – to exercise it as frequently as opportunity allows, whether it’s with time, knowledge, kindness, humour or something tangible. I chose generosity not just because it’s such a positive attribute, but because it’s measurable. I can reflect on my day and examine whether I’ve lived by the value I espouse for my company. If the answer is yes, then I’m sufficiently aligned to fall asleep with a good conscience.

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A Tailored Approach How former Olympic athlete Sarah Lindsay has carved a name for herself in the fitness industry through ROAR Fitness What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? I wake up at 6am and get straight out of bed. I never press the snooze button ever. I drink water next to my bed, wash my face, clean my teeth and get dressed and head straight out for a walk.

Usually for about an hour, I get back and make a collagen coffee which I take out onto the grass barefoot for 10 to 15 minutes. I answer my emails over breakfast next. I don’t look at emails or messages until I have done

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my morning activities. I feel much happier, healthier and able to deal with whatever might come at me once I have given myself that positive start.

What inspired you to launch ROAR Fitness?

After I retired from sport, I moved into personal training full time. I worked at a few different leading facilities to really learn the trade but everywhere I went I just felt like something was missing and I was confident I could bring something special to the table.

Competing in Olympic sport has given me access to the world’s best coaches, physiologists and physios coupled with the fact I was on a full-time sports science programme for 12 years is an education you cannot buy.

You really do learn a lot when you practically live in the lab. My now husband who I met at the gym was already established as London’s leading transformation specialist and already had a very impressive catalogue of client results, so he helped me transfer my knowledge into client results-specific skills What are the key services offered at ROAR Fitness? We are known for our results. You can achieve incredible things in just 8 to 12 weeks no matter what the goals are. Goals are decided by the client, and we facilitate whether that be fat loss, strength, muscle build, posture, fitness or all the above. After an initial consultation, the client has their assessments. A movement screening to check any tightness or weaknesses and an in-depth nutrition assessment. Here we need to build the biggest picture possible so that we can make a bespoke plan. We take into consideration likes and dislikes, food restrictions, gut problems, hormonal issues and lifestyle. We take starting measurements and calculate body fat and then we design the programme. Clients are allocated to a Roar Trainer and also a nutrition coach, so they have a little team of experts looking after them for the duration with regular check ups and retests to avoid plateaus. We are a private personal training gym exclusively so only people training with their Roar Trainer are on the gym floor so that it always feels private and exclusive without too many bodies on the gym floor.

You are a three-time Olympian – talk us through your background? As a child I was high energy, lacking concentration so I needed to be very active. My parents took me to every possible sports club so that I could exercise before and after school every day. I think they wanted to give me every opportunity possible to develop and to be physically confident enough to try anything and mix with anyone. I think there is something quite magical about sport in this sense. I used to figure skate and ice dance at Richmond ice rink but one day when I was eight years old someone was talent spotting and asked if I’d like to try speed skating. I was naturally fast and powerful and had already developed some skills on the ice so as soon as I got onto that racetrack I was hooked.

I loved that whoever crossed the line first won and it wasn’t judged by someone else.

I worked my way up the ranks, started racing junior internationals, and won a bronze medal at the Youth Olympics. By 15, I won the Senior Ladies British Championships and was invited to train full time with the National team as soon as I finished school.

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It became my entire life. From 15 until I retired at 29-years-old, speed skating was all I did or cared about.

Describe the transition from being a professional athlete to Personal Training? This was actually a rather tough time in my life. After my third Olympics, it was time to hang up my skates. It’s always hard to know when to retire and my last race was officially my fastest ever so the love for the sport and desire to continue was strong and I was heartbroken to leave. Even though I had no plan, something told me it was time for the next chapter, and I took the leap. The adjustment took a good year. I felt like I’d lost my identity, and nothing felt as important to me as the goal of Olympic Gold, so I felt extremely

low and under-stimulated. I think my body really missed the adrenalin of flying around a corner on one leg at 30mph. It wasn’t until I started my first business that I found my ‘why’ again. Something that took obsession and dedication to succeed.

How important is it to align your diet with your fitness routine? Whatever your goal, your nutrition is key. Underlying any nutri-

“Things will go wrong, you will lose more than you will win but even just one win makes 100 loses worth it.”

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tion plan, optimal health must be the most important factor. Then you can eat to perform, eat to recover and then once you have nailed these fundamentals you can eat with an aesthetic goal in mind.

With body transformations, client’s usually want quick results – what advice would you give them to embrace the process? Follow the plan as closely as possible. This is an opportunity to work with the world’s best team and if you do what they say you will look and feel the best you have ever have. If you find anything difficult just keep communicating and we will work out solutions together.

There’s always an answer.

How do you ensure your clients feel confident at the gym? There are never more than a few clients on the gym floor at any one time. You can’t do it wrong as you are coached every step of the way. Everybody starts somewhere, nobody is confident on day one at a new gym, so it’s important to know that everyone is in the same boat. We have such a special community, and we work very hard on our culture and positive atmosphere. Clients very quickly feel like part of the Roar family.

Finding the highly-skilled training specialists is an art – how does ROAR Fitness allocate trainers per each client? We are lucky as the brand is now relatively strong, we receive thousands of CVs to choose from. We then have a multi-stage hiring process and then the onboarding and Roar training to make sure standards are at the highest level.

What are the key challenges you’ve had to overcome in this male-dominated field? I honestly don’t think it has been an advantage or a hindrance. Coming from sport, I was used to be in a male-dominated environment. I think to be taken seriously as a trainer you need to live the life. Lead by example, be knowledgeable and strong and then also empathetic and understanding and really want to help people. Be good at what you do so that you are confident with any client.

As a speed skating champion for 10 consecutive years – what were some of the key lessons during that time? To take a chance and never give up. I think this applies to everything in life. Especially in business.

What’s the worst that can happen? Things will go wrong, you will lose more than you will win but even just one win makes 100 loses worth it. You must learn to enjoy the journey and embrace the challenges of failure or you will never grow.

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Movement

proach, and we use these different approaches to support the patient journey. Perhaps they start with our osteopaths, but then they are guided to work with the physiotherapists to help them move onto the next stage of their injury rehabilitation.

Talk us through the design of the space and how does it align with what you offer? The atmosphere and energy of a space plays such an important role in a person’s journey and experience with that space. We wanted to create a space that our community would want to come to, to feel ‘at home’ when they arrive. We wanted our community to feel inspired to go on a journey with Joint Space, and we believe we have achieved this with the design and feel of the space itself. Every detail was pain-stakingly taken, from the meticulous choice of colours, the finishes, the bespoke scent, the background music and the high ceilings, we aimed to take what was a shell and core warehouse and brought warmth and eastern ambience whilst still maintaining elements of an industrial feel and professionalism of a clinic.

The space also offers a series of classes Joint Space offers a comprehensive mix and workshops – tell us about them. Joint Space has a large movement space that alof physical therapy services including chilows us to run classes, workshops, training ropractic, osteopathy, and physiotherapy sessions, rehabilitations and community – could you elaborate? It is crucial to meet events. The classes and workshops we offer each patient where they are. Joint Space support the patient journey in combination offers these fundamental therapies as our with their treatment. The aim of the classes core clinical services, and this is where most is for our Joint Space patients to carry on of our community begins their Joint Space the work required to get them to where they journey. Each practise has a different ap-

What inspired you to launch Joint Space – talk us through the concept. Joint Space was a passion envisioned over 15 years ago. The Joint Space journey is from patient to student, offering a seamless journey through an ecosystem of manual therapies, natural medicine, movement and education. The main inspiration for Joint Space was to create a space that would inspire others, including practitioners in their work to create a truly unique environment and integrated approach. The main purpose was to inspire our patients and community to go on a deep journey of discovery and self-empowerment for their long-term wellbeing.

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How Kris Rai, Co-Founder of Joint Space, is revamping the wellness landscape through physical therapy

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need to be. We have Pilates classes, strength classes, mobility classes, breathwork classes to name a few. I run a movement practice with my wife and founding member Pavlina, whereby we incorporate many different movement forms and philosophies from East to West to help people connect to themselves, others and space. Our workshops are there to educate our community, to give them knowledge and power to understand how to look after themselves. These range from spinal health to women’s health, to movement and much more.

The clinic also provides bespoke movement coaching services – how does it work? The Joint Space journey is from patient to student, and that journey requires us to learn how to move, to ensure our body is robust and resilient. Our Joint Space coaches are all high-end coaches that have unique and extensive knowledge in their fields. Everyone who trains with one of our coaches has an assessment with one of our practitioners, to understand previous medical and injury history to create a clear understanding of the needs of each individual who goes through the movement coaching. We have options for different packages ranging from once a week to four times per week.

The Naturopathic medicine treats medical conditions by addressing their root cause – what are some of the most common concerns in this region? Dubai, an international hub and a fast-moving city, is a city that requires a degree of energy that from my experience is unmatched in many other countries and cities. We find a significant imbalance in how people live their lives, trying to do too much, not listening closely enough to their body and as a result often ‘burning out’. Our Naturopaths are highly skilled, often placing significant focus on optimising gut health, stress management and hormone balancing amongst many other things. Our Naturopaths play a key role in getting to the root of all our patients’ issues and is a fundamental part of patients getting to where they need to be.

Maintaining our posture is one of the main concerns for residents in the UAE – what simple exercises can practise in our daily routine to do so? Our posture is the mirror of how we move through our lives. Posture is affected by our parents, our childhood, our personalities, our confidence, our health and of course how we use our bodies on a day-to-day basis, amongst many other things. The human body was designed to move, to be well-coordinated, robust and resilient. When we learn to move well and often, our posture improves without us even trying. There are many ways to improve our posture, but a key component of starting to improve our posture is to be mindful of how much time we spend sitting at computers, desks and on our phones.

Move often and move well.

selves that is beyond the logic and black and white of science itself.

However, that is not to reduce the importance of science, it is crucial, but rather to elevate the importance of art.

This is The Alignment Issue – what activities ensure you feel aligned daily? In a place like Dubai where life is fast, it is important to have a daily practise that offers the opportunity for you to root yourself. If we do not root ourselves, then we can be blown away in the wind of the rush. My personal practise starts at 5:30am, allowing me the opportunity to position my personal movement practise, breath work and voice work with the rising sun. The sun rising symbolises The concept focuses on a science-meetsthe start of a new day, the cyclical growth of art approach – tell us more. Discovering ourenergy, and practising with the sun rising selves, questing to find health and wellness, gives me the chance to merge into the day does not just belong to the realm of science. with the sun. I call this practise my obserBefore modern science as we know it today, came art. Art is the expression of who we vational practise as it gives me the space to are, and appreciating this allows us to see observe myself at the start of each day; how things in a different perspective, to become my joints are moving, how my organs are imaginative, to ask questions, to examine feeling, how my breath and voice are resowhat we see, question our observations, nating. For me, these daily observational what is it that this person is trying to say? practises are key to creating attunement Art allows us to find passion for life and to within my structure, a space to harmonise become inspired, tapping into a part of ourso I can move through life more easily.

“The human body was designed to move, to be well-coordinated, robust and resilient.”

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The Beauty Shelf Zoya Sakr, Founder of The Flower Society, shares her hero beauty buys C O M P I L E D BY: J O E L L E A L B E A I N O

Charlotte’s Magic Body Cream Dhs295 Charlotte Tilbury

I use this body cream on my hands and lower legs, it’s made out of shea butter and hyaluronic acid, and it gives an amazing glow.

Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser Dhs190 Aesop

It smells like mandarin and bergamot. I love using this body cleanser, it makes me feel fresh every morning.

The LYMA Laser Dhs9,176 LYMA

home. I finish the routine with serum and cream application too.

Shampoo Pure Jasmine Dhs105 Salma

I just love this shampoo. It makes my hair smell like my mother’s garden in Lebanon.

I use the moisturizer too; they both give amazing volume to my hair, and it’s made in Lebanon from the purest ingredients.

makeup and skin care products.

I choose makeup that has skin care elements that keep my skin hydrated all day and this one is the best, it’s worth investing in.

Gold Knight Eau De Parfum Dhs1,190 Kilian Paris

I have been using this perfume on and off for years. I feel special when I wear it as it has a unique strong identity.

Le Fond De Teint Dhs1,218 Clé de Peau Beauté

I’ve been a fan of this Japanese brand for years; I love their

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SISLEŸA L’integral Anti-Age Concentrated Firming Body Cream Dhs1,597 Sisley Paris

I apply it after every shower, and I can instantly feel my skin getting tighter. Sisley conducts years of research before releasing any product. This one is a must-try.

Abeille Royale Eye R Repair Serum Dhs579 Guerlain

This combo serum really hydrates my eye contours. I use it day and night.

SUNLEŸA G.E. Age Minimizing Global Sun Care Spf 50+ Dhs1,065 Sisley Paris

I never go out without my sunscreen, this one has very high protection and doesn’t feel thick on the skin, and most importantly its anti-ageing.

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I love it because I can treat my wrinkles from home with a tenminute routine. It works on old and new scars as well as on surface veins, it’s a revolutionary device that we should all have at

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Choose from our extensive range of authentic Thesiger photographs.

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C O M P I L E D BY: S A R A H J O S E P H

AM TO PM BEAUTY

Author of MANIFEST, Roxie Nafousi shares her morning to evening beauty routine Talk us through your morning routine. I wake up around 5:30am, repeat positive affirmations, then have my morning coffee and my supplements.

I then meditate on an accurpressure mat for 10 minutes before exercising. After that, I will have a shower and do my skincare routine. Then I am ready for breakfast before work.

How does your evening routine differ? I always have a shower or a bath as soon as I’m home from work, as I love to get cosy for the evening. I spend time on my skincare by really massaging products into my skin with a skin tool. I find it so relaxing! Then, I

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usually just try to switch off by watching a TV show, or reading a book. I always turn my phone off by 9pm latest as I like to give my mind a rest from stimulation before I sleep. I try to always fall asleep to a manifesting meditation or an affirmation playlist.

What are your go-to skincare products? I love the Susanne Kaufmann eye roller serum, CeraVe face wash, Skincuticals serum for Rosacea and I’m using Paula’s Choice azelaic acid (10%) at the moment, which has been really helping my skin recently.

What can always be found in your makeup bag? My makeup bag always has a host of beauty products

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Clockwise from top left: Contour Stylus Dhs125 Victoria Beckham Beauty; Baccarat Rouge 540 Eau de Parfum, 70ml Dhs1,140 Maison Francis Kurkdjian; Hypnôse Drama Mascara Dhs160 Lancôme; Vanille Antique Eau De Parfum, 50ml Dhs991 Byredo; Eye Rescue Serum, 10ml Dhs425 Susanne Kaufmann available at Cult Beauty; Hy-Glam Concealer, 7g Dhs144 Natasha Denona

such as the Natasha Denona Concealer, Makeup by Mario matte eyeshadow palette, the Lancôme mascara, the Victoria Beckham contour stick, Chantecaille foundation, Eyelash colours, Laura Mercier Translucent powder, MAC Cork Lip Liner and HUDA Beauty Sugar Lip Gloss.

Let’s talk fragrance. What are you loving at the moment? My top fragrances now are the classic Baccarat Rouge from Maison Francis Kurkdjian and Byredo’s Vanilla Antique inspired by flowers.

How do you choose your evening fragrance? I like a perfume to make me feel feminine yet powerful and

so I choose one that will make me feel like that.

Talk us through your hair routine. I had very bad dermatitis on my scalp so now I only use Philip Kingsley itchy scalp shampoo, and I don’t use conditioner anymore to protect my hair extension (I have tapes!).

It’s not the best hair routine but it seems to work.

What is the most unusual item in your makeup bag? I don’t think I use anything unusual personally, but every time I am looking for makeup, I end up finding one of my son’s toys or something totally random that he has left in there. Yesterday I found a miniature spoon in there!

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WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

ALIGNMENT These inspiring women share what living in alignment means to them

SOPHIYA FAIZAL CO-FOUNDER – PAUS: WELLNESS + COMMUNITY What does living in alignment mean to you?

To me, living in alignment means being in charge of my day. I make sure everything I do has a purpose, whether it’s work, family, or my health.

What goals have you set for 2024? My goal for 2024 is simple: to live in the moment and trust my intuition more.

This is The Alignment Issue – what activities ensure you align yourself in daily life? I watch the sunrise every morning and take a walk. At night, I have a routine to relax and get ready for the next day. Playing tennis helps me connect to my inner child.

AMANDA RUSHFORTH ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANT What does living in alignment mean to you?

Living in alignment to me means making sure that my values are in line with my actions. This means for example, putting people and planet over profit. I don’t believe we can truly ensure a healthy environment for future generations to come if we don’t make those conscious changes now.

What goals have you set for 2024? For 2024, I hope to become less and less reliant on plastics in the household and reduce our waste as a family even more. This starts with making even bigger changes to our lifestyle, to add to things like water filters, composters and paper recycling strategies.

This is The Alignment Issue – what activities ensure you align yourself in daily life? From a day-to-day perspective, I champion sus-

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tainable fashion, locally made slow fashion and secondhand clothing over new every time. We are plastic water bottle free in our home and use a Mywater filtration system.

Sourcing local food helps limit our reliance on imported goods too.

DR SALIHA AFRIDI CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST AND FOUNDER OF THE LIGHTHOUSE ARABIA What does living in alignment mean to you?

For me, living in alignment and living authentically are one and the same. It means to live in such a way that my daily actions are consistent with my core values. It’s about maintaining authenticity in both my personal and professional life, making choices that reflect who I am and what I believe in. It’s not just about moving through life, but about moving with purpose, passion, and a personal power. I embrace this way of living not solely or selfishly for my own growth, but from a deep-seated belief that by bettering myself, I become a more valuable contributor to those around me. This journey is far more than a personal quest; it’s a heartfelt commitment to enhancing the wellbeing of my family and community.

What goals have you set for 2024? As for my goals for 2024, I mainly have one goal which will impact every area of my life and that is to do life slowly and deeply. This is a very different way of doing things for someone who has raced through life, but I am now making a commitment to do fewer things and engage with them deeply and give each thing the time and attention it deserves and that I deserve.

I want to show up for my family, my friends, my work, and my community, and be more

present and intentional in every interaction.

I also want to carve out even more time and space in my days to reflect and write.

This is The Alignment Issue – what activities ensure you align yourself in daily life? First is taking care of my physical body – sleep, movement, nourishing foods and hydration are non-negotiables. I don’t wait till I feel motivated to do things, instead these are the practises that are in place before anything else gets scheduled in, regular reflection and self-assessment to stay connected with my values and objectives. I do this through insight-oriented therapy, daily reflective practises, and journaling, setting aside time for personal development activities like reading and attending workshops, having spiritual practices like meditative prayer so that I remain connected, grounded and present and lastly dedicating time to relationships and hobbies that bring joy and fulfillment.

NATASSIA D’SOUZA EMOTIONAL EATING & SUSTAINABLE WEIGHT LOSS EXPERT What does living in alignment mean to you?

To me, living in alignment means consistently prioritising self-care and being present for myself in both good and challenging times.

It involves living in accordance with my core values, such as authenticity, compassion, and resilience. Authenticity guides me to stay true to myself and my beliefs, compassion motivates me to connect with others empathetically, and resilience empowers me to navigate setbacks with a positive mindset.

What goals have you set for 2024? They begin with improving time management and productivity skills, strengthening relationships with family and friends, enhancing my

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supportive network by increasing the growth and participation of my emotional eating community, travel to three new countries, reading or listening to at least two books a month on self-help and business to stay inspired and informed, obtaining a certification in Neuroplasticity and its role to rewire the brain and change habits, starting my YouTube Channel and volunteering for a cause or organisation.

This is The Alignment Issue – what activities ensure you align yourself in daily life? I begin the day with a moment of mindfulness and gratitude to set a positive tone, incorporating physical activity whether it’s a workout or a walk for my overall wellbeing, plan my day ahead; inclusive of meals, being present, focused and compassionate for my clients, scheduling breaks to recharge and prevent burnout, dedicating time to learn something new and seven to eight hours of sleep.

JULIE LEMKE HOLISTIC ESTHETICIAN What does living in alignment means to you?

It means being my authentic self and always getting guided by my intuition.

In addition, I also firmly believe that too much of anything is not healthy — everything in moderation. It is all about navigating a happy balanced healthy life surrounded by inspiring, loving people.

What goals have you set for 2024? I honestly feel that I am insanely aligned with my purpose and everything is unfolding in the right way. I will probably be looking into expanding my services going and launching abroad, but right now I have not set a firm date.

This is The Alignment Issue – what activities ensure you align yourself in daily life? I strive to meditate each morning to prepare myself with a healthy focused mindset for the day.

It is so important for me to start the day in a quiet and peaceful way, as I need to deliver the best version of myself and my energy to each and everyone of my clients in a effortless way.

ZOYA SAKR FOUNDER – THE FLOWER SOCIETY What does living in alignment means to you?

Living in alignment means body, mind and soul are in equilibrium, having a balance in a lifestyle between work, healthy eating habits, sports, family connection and feeding the mind with knowledge and experiences.

What goals have you set for 2024? Every year, I set a goal to learn more on a work level and on my personal knowledge, whether exploring a new civilisation, culture and committing to a new sport that will bring me a

new challenge and commitment. I would love to say no more for work and spend more time in the house, my job exhausts me and I believe I need to increase my family and me time.

This is The Alignment Issue – what activities ensure you align yourself in daily life? Yoga, pilates and daily walks aligns me on daily basis, I am committed to it since many years.

ZEINA LADKI CEO AND FOUNDER – FLTRD What does living in alignment mean to you?

Living in alignment means ensuring that my actions, values, words, and actions are harmoniously interconnected. It’s about ensuring that every decision I make, both personally and professionally, reflects my authentic self. Essentially, it’s about staying true to who I am, while navigating the dynamic landscape of my career and personal life.

What goals have you set for 2024? In 2024, I aspire to achieve several milestones that align with my continuous pursuit of growth and impact. Professionally, I aim to curate at least two groundbreaking projects that contribute to industry innovation. Additionally, I plan to explore new avenues within the fashion industry, leveraging more than 25 years of experience to make meaningful contributions. Ultimately, my overarching goal is to inspire and be inspired, fostering a positive impact in both my professional and personal spheres.

This is The Alignment Issue – what activities ensure you align yourself in daily life?

Embracing ‘The Alignment Issue’ aligns seamlessly with my philosophy of always being myself. I actively seek out opportunities that resonate with my values and contribute to my professional growth. Regularly engaging with my network and supporting others in their journeys helps me stay connected and aligned with my commitment to support those around me. Additionally, I maintain a humble approach, staying open to learning from every experience. These practises ensure that I navigate each day authentically and in harmony with my true self.

DEVIKA MANKANI PSYCHOLOGIST, EDUCATOR, SPA OWNER AND DIRECTOR AT PRIVÈE What does living in alignment mean to you?

Over two decades of psychotherapy practise, I’ve found that this alignment is the key to achieving the sense of peace, fulfillment, and authenticity many of us seek. It involves a deep self-awareness and understanding of personal values, strengths, and aspirations, guiding the choices that truly resonate with our in-

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ner selves. This process can sometimes mean navigating away from societal norms and conditioned beliefs, a journey that I facilitate in therapy through exploration and reflection.

What goals have you set for 2024? My goals for 2024 are intertwined with my professional commitment and personal beliefs.

Each year, I aim to deepen my knowledge in integrative psychotherapy, constantly updating my skills within the context of the latest research and methods. Community outreach is another significant goal, and for the past few years, it’s been to better mental health awareness and accessibility through a recently launched mental health platform I co-founded, Chearful.com. I also plan to strengthen my personal meditation practise which is foundational for my wellbeing and effectiveness as a therapist. My favourite goal which tends to repeat itself annually is to travel with my family, the best way to combine adventure and family time. Lastly, I aspire to engage in interdisciplinary research exploring the intersection of spiritual and clinical psychology, contributing to the field’s growth and understanding.

This is The Alignment Issue – what activities ensure you align yourself in daily life? In my daily life, activities like meditation, neurofeedback, reflective journaling, continuous learning, engaging in meaningful conversations, physical exercise, and spending time in nature help maintain my alignment. Meditation keeps me present and aware, crucial for my mental clarity. Reflective journaling offers a space for introspection, aligning my actions with my core values. Continuous learning, through reading and attending conferences, fuels my intellectual growth and professional development. Conversations with friends, colleagues and mentors provide diverse perspectives and a support system. Lastly, physical exercise and nature time are vital for my physical and mental health, underscoring the importance of holistic care.

SARAH FAIZAL CO-FOUNDER – PAUS: WELLNESS + COMMUNITY What does living in alignment mean to you?

Alignment is living true to your most authentic self. All your decisions come from a grounded place, a place of truth and unwavering trust in yourself and the higher power.

What goals have you set for 2024? My goals are ever changing but one of my intentions for the year is to live fearlessly, always keeping my higher self in mind.

This is The Alignment Issue – what activities ensure you align yourself in daily life? Prayer or meditation and art are my two favourite activities for alignment.

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PASSION AND PURPOSE

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WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

Kintsugi Founder and wellness guru, Patrizia Bortolin, shares how she found the confidence to push her vision forward to create a unique space dedicated to wellness LIFESTYLE

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K

intsugi, which translates to “joining with gold”, is a Japanese pottery repair technique of mending broken ceramic pieces with gold.

Drawing from this inspiration of embracing imperfection is a new wellness concept located on Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi that aims to uplift and empower its community.

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? I love starting slowly and gratefully. As a coffee specialist, I indulge in tasting my favourite brew right off the bat. Following this, I engage in a session of either yoga Nidra or Vipassana meditation – two practises that hold immense significance in my life.

What is the idea behind Kintsugi? I’m guiding this beautiful project and community within a management board. I’m also particularly glad to curate the concept behind the brand and its future evolutions. Kintsugi Space, nestled within a pristine seven-floor pale pink building on Reem Island, is a haven for wellbeing. This carefully curated

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community brings together female wellbeing artists, healers, therapists, inventors, scientists, and coaches to address both emotional and physiological aspects. It’s a continuously evolving world of interactive experiences, cutting-edge technologies, exclusive signature treatments, transformative rituals and natural therapies within a sanctuary of peace, movement and stillness.

How did you know it was the right time to launch Kintsugi and which steps led you to realise this path? The core idea of Kintsugi echoed within me since the first call to consult for the project. I embraced the challenge with an open heart, aiming to bring genuine inspiration and support for women navigating life’s challenges. Recognising the need for a more meaningful, sustainable and inspired approach to wellness, I laid the foundation of Kintsugi through an initial deepening and expansion of the original vision, strategic planning, then operational enhancements, creative execution, and ongoing training, creating a masterpiece of care and synergies between all those incredible women.

There are three different branches within the brand. Can you expand on the different concepts? Kintsugi is a movement with aligned activities. The brand will develop, and new projects are expected in the coming year, ca-

tering to both our Abu Dhabi Space members and global wellness enthusiasts.

Kintsugi offers a unique approach to self-care – what wellness activities and practises are available for members? At Kintsugi Space, we offer a diverse blend of ancient healing modalities, modern technologies, scientific

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wellness, there’s still a need to bridge the gap in understanding on how to craft meaningful and effective offerings. At Kintsugi we promote conscious, joyful nutrition for a happier mind and gut, combined with the importance of having a calm mind and more awareness of how to improve energy. Natural beauty is encouraged to preserve energy and harmony.

We can see a real interest from women in the Middle East in this matter.

How do you measure success in the wellness industry? Success in the wellness industry, for me, is defined by significant improvements in both the team and guests’ daily lives. When a place is perceived as an oasis for self-discovery and the joy of being alive for everyone involved, that’s when true success is achieved.

What are your therapeutic must-haves for modern-day mindfulness? Essential to my modern-day wellbeing are moments of stillness and silence, outside and inside. I particularly like smelling essential oils, each with its unique uplifting power – orange for joy, and lavender for relaxation for example.

I’m a fan of natural remedies, tasty vegetarian food, meditation, quality massage, and face yoga. I deeply relax with a head and face massage, Vichy shower when available and I promote laughter yoga.

This is The Alignment Issue – what activities help you align after a hectic day? After a bustling day, I find alignment through meditation, particularly Vipassana, and yoga Nidra. I was taught by an Indian nun that spending quality time cooking a meal for others prepared with fresh ingredients while focusing on good intentions, serves as a deep spiritual practise. I’m blessed by sharing a lot of time with a few authentic healers and great human beings and this is a huge support. Happiness is an inside job.

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expertise, creative wellness and holistic therapies. Our aim is to guide members toward happier and healthier lifestyles, defying categorisation as we blend healing, technology, culture, artistry and community. We believe in creating healthy routines, purifying the body, stimulating the mind, thinking less, enjoying and observing more. Our team of professionals, including wellbeing specialists, naturopathic doctors, nutritionists, and intuitive healers, provides personalised consultations and recommendations for a tailor-made service.

Can you define the inspiration behind the flagship space? Kintsugi Space was inaugurated on 6th November 2023 and stands as Abu Dhabi’s first women-only member’s club specialising in holistic wellness. It’s an exquisite sanctuary in the heart of Al Reem Island to rest and reset with the help of pioneering wellness practitioners. Rooted in a vision of blending scientific innovations with vibrational energy work, ancient healing and holistic treatments, it offers whole wellbeing experiences supported by psychology and enhanced by unparalleled quantum technology.

The space focuses on guiding customers to a higher frequency – why is this important to our overall wellness? Elevating frequency is crucial for overall wellness as it enhances the quality of everything around us, when the frequency is high, every global aspect of life feels better. It’s a measurable shift that encourages conscious living and mindful energy management.

How is the wellness culture growing in the Middle East? We are delighted to inspire women in the region to explore holistic wellness. It’s time to navigate the diverse wellness offerings with a smooth, personalised approach, creating genuine values. While the last few years have seen a rise in the priority given to healing

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HEALING SOUND

Sound Healing is a powerful therapy that combines healing sounds and energetic vibrations to improve our multidimensional wellbeing. We share an edit of the best to try to kick off 2024 as your best self

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WORDS: RUMAN BAIG

nise brain waves, inducing a meditative state that can alleviate stress and anxiety. The harmonic vibrations are said to resonate with the body’s cells, promoting a sense of harmony and wellbeing.

BINAURAL BEATS

In the realm of modern sound healing, binaural beats have gained popularity. This technique involves playing two slightly different frequencies in each ear, creating a perceived third frequency – the binaural beat – within the brain. Depending on the frequency used, binaural beats can have different effects on brain activity.

The Benefits: Lower frequencies may induce a state of relaxation, while higher frequencies might stimulate alertness and focus. Research suggests that exposure to binaural beats can influence mood, improve sleep, and even enhance cognitive performance.

CHANTING AND MANTRAS

Vocalisation, through chanting or repeating mantras, is another ancient form of sound healing. The rhythmic vibrations produced by chanting are believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system and can be incorporated into meditation practises.

The Benefits: Chanting and mantras are believed to have positive effects on wellbeing through sound healing. They may promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance focus by engaging the mind with rhythmic vibrations. Some cultures and traditions suggest that specific sounds or mantras can harmonise energy and contribute to overall mental and emotional balance.

While scientific evidence is limited, many individuals find personal benefits from incorporating chanting and mantras into their wellness practises.

IMAGE: GETTY IMAGES

MUSIC THERAPY

S

ound has been an integral part of human culture for centuries, with its influence extending beyond mere auditory stimulation. Across diverse cultures, the therapeutic potential of sound has been recognised and harnessed for healing purposes.

TIBETAN SINGING BOWLS

Tibetan singing bowls have been used in

Beyond traditional instruments, music itself can be a powerful healing tool. Music therapy encompasses various approaches, including receptive and active forms.

Receptive therapy involves listening to music, while active therapy involves creating or performing music.

Both have proven benefits in promoting healing and relaxation.

Eastern cultures for centuries as tools for The Benefits: Overall, music therapy has meditation and healing. These bowls, often shown positive effects on mental health, promade of a blend of metals, produce a resomoting relaxation, and aiding in emotional nant sound when struck or rubbed with a expression. Additionally, it has been shown mallet. The vibrations generated by the singto aid in physical rehabilitation, alleviate ing bowls are believed to promote a sense of pain, and support individuals dealing with deep relaxation, balance energy, and even mental health issues such as anxiety and destimulate healing processes within the body. pression. The personalised and non-verbal The Benefits: The sound produced by Ti- nature of music therapy makes it accessible and effective for diverse populations. betan singing bowls is thought to synchro-

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WORDS: RUMAN BAIG

THE REAL RELAX Nine stress reduction techniques for optimal health in 2024

IMAGES: IVAN ZAKHARENKO, MAHDI-CHAGHARI. UNSPLASH

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.

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

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

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

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hour 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 AND 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.

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What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? The first 30 minutes of my day are easily the most important as they predictably put me in a peak state to serve. I like to break it up into three components spending 10 mins on each: soul/spirit, body and mind. The sequence is highly essential.

SPIRIT/SOUL (10 MINUTES)

∙ The first 10 minutes is priming. ∙ 3 minutes of going over all the things I’m grateful for. ∙ 3 minutes of pure breath work in order to bring me into the present moment. ∙ 3 minutes of letting my imagination create what could happen if I was my best self.

BODY (10 MINUTES)

This 10 minutes is dedicated to giving my body the nutrients it needs to thrive. I actually eat a big breakfast, smaller lunch and less or nothing in the evening as I feel this honours my circadian rhythm the best. ∙ Protein and fats (keeps my energy and dopamine stores high) ∙ Bone broth for gut health ∙ Sauerkraut for gut health ∙ Supplements – Zinc, Multi, omega 3, curcumin, PQQ for overall health

The Body Architect

We discuss body transformation, delivering results and building a business with Jackson Litchfield WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

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Then I go over all the technical side of my day such as clients’ programmes, my training, education, recovery, and general matters to take care of. I generally prioritise the most critical tasks first and then work backwards. When energy is the highest, it makes sense to undertake the tasks that carry the most relevance.

What is at the core of your approach to transformations? I like to take my opinion out of it and use a client centred approach. This means understanding the client and then authoring the regime, rather than the other way round. From here I break it up into two components. Logic – what is the goal? and Math – what is the most efficient path there.

The logic: First and foremost the client’s goal in detail is the most important. I’ve broken down most clients goals into 4 domains and I encourage them to explore the depth of their intended outcome.

The 4 domains: ∙ Deep health – how you feel ∙ State of mind/mindset – how you think ∙ Body composition – how you look ∙ Strength and performance – how you move Once we have clarity on the goal we can then use solid science to apply a framework that will produce the best possible outcome.

The math: The details that will get us there.

What kind of workouts ie cardio vs strength, which exercises are the most relevant, what framework best applies ie sets, reps, tempo etc, most relevant recovery strategies to en-

IMAGE: GETTY IMAGES

MIND (10 MINUTES)

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sure constant progression, most effective nutrition and nutraceutical protocols. In a perfect world this should yield the most efficient path for the client to see the exact result they are after. Motivation is great, however what trumps that is seeing and getting what you want with the highest relevance.

How important are other factors such as nutrition and sleep to achieving optimal results?

Very. The way I like to think about it is, let’s say we wanted to create something with our body ie. lose weight, build muscle, get stronger. We will need two things to happen. Firstly, we need to send the body a specific message to change and secondly the body must be in a state to receive this message. Essentially, nutrition and sleep prepare the body to receive the message and then training sends the message in the form of a request i.e. build muscle, get stronger, speed up weight loss.

We must send and receive successfully.

There are obviously many variables to that equation, however I believe that’s a good way to think about how it works in principle.

What common mistakes do you see in clients who think they are eating healthily? This one for me is quite simply when they obsess over the quantity of food and neglect the quality of food. I would love to see clients form an understanding of what food does in their body once they ingest it. Essentially food is information and every-time we eat we send our bodies mini commands to behave, function and look a certain way.

There is the total energy of food and there is the intelligence of food. Our bodies need a wide variety of amino acids, fatty acids, complex carbs, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals in order to support its peak function. This for me is what I would consider the intelligence of food, the actual effect anything we eat has on hormones, brain function, detoxification abilities, sleep quality, weight loss, energy. If we get this right by eating whole foods from a good origin, almost always the total amount of food will self regulate.

How much sleep do we need to obtain enough restorative downtime to achieve our body goals? I would say no less than 6.5 hours at an absolute minimum and of course eight hours is the sweet spot. It’s also important to focus on the quality of sleep, deep sleep, rem, light sleep. This is called a delta wave cycle and we want to get as many of those as we can in an evening.

Can you tell us more about the first 14 day reset of your programme and how it supports the process of transformation? The 14 day reset was designed to form an immaculate foundation in order to build great habits and create significant initial results. It attempts to empower the client to understand their body and form a blueprint on what works for them.

Again, each 14 day reset is always customised

match their expectations, it basically means that consistency is the currency to getting what you want. As for the rest days, absolutely. The body should always be worked out to a point where it reaches its peak performance but never experiences being overwhelmed. This way we work and recover at a ratio that allows the body to see progress but not at the cost of disfunction.

What have been the most challenging or rewarding aspects to date and why? I would say time, I wish I could work with more people in a day.

After 15 years of coaching I’m just as passionate as when I first started.

Going through transformations with clients add a significant amount of joy in my life, so I guess finding more opportunities and ways to work with people has always been the challenge. With that said the reward is witnessing what happens when clients transform into the human they had always wished to become. Having a role in that is simply priceless Have you had any mentors and if so, what advice did they impart? I have had the privilege of studying with many great health educators, however there is one that stands out the most: Charles Poliquin. The advice he gave me was life to meet the individual’s goals and aspirations. changing on both a personal and career level.

However the main flow of the 14 days is: Professionally he taught me the technical de1. Understand how much food to eat; 2. tails on how to master the art of a transforWhat types of food to eat; 3. When to eat mation. On the personal side he taught me to them. 4. How to nourish the body in relation focus on education, mastery, walking the walk to their specific nutrient considerations (we and service to others. These things proved to always use this phase to correct nutrient defibe extremely valuable and still are to this day. ciencies); 5. How to construct an overall eatWhat advice would you give your younger ing regime that produces a specific outcome self? The two biggest questions you should ie eating for body fat reduction, muscle mass, always have on the top of your mind are: performance, fertility etc. Generally we see What to do next? And with who? And for the improvements in body composition, detoxianswers. Spend time in meditation/prayer and form a deep rooted relationship with fication abilities, cellular health, gut health, yourself. This space will always produce the energy, blood sugar balance, inflammation. best answers for life’s hardest questions How does taking synthetic hormones affect How do you approach scaling in business fats storage? In a nutshell, they should only ever be considered if one has a serious imbalwithout compromising on quality – what ance with their own organic hormonal expresis next? This quite simply comes down to sion. So assuming they do and there is a plausible case for them, they essentially work by assisting the restoration of the bodies natural fat loss pathways. These are predominantly growth hormones, androgens, estrogens, thyroid and in some cases insulin. They each have their role in things like increasing metabolism, balancing blood sugar, helping build lean muscle, increasing performance output, assisting recovery speed so you can train more.

A body that is in hormonal harmony is very building solid systems and a framework that responsive and will likely produce effective consistently produce results. Again, this results over a good timeline. With that said should always be one that’s a client centred diet, lifestyle modifications, training methapproach which considers: where the client ods and natural supplements should be conis now, where they would like to go and what sidered first before venturing into that space. is the best strategy to take us there.

How important is consistency and should The systems’ core principles should we be having rest days? Consistency is king make specific change happen, work with evwhen it comes to getting results in general. In over 15 years of health coaching, I’ve begun to ery or most clients and always be testing and see how certain trends and patterns predictchanging things as we see progress. At the end of the day, it’s all about building someably produce results. Let’s say we design a thing that works on a consistent basis whilst certain programme for a client ie. nutrition, providing a constant core experience. strength training, cardio and lifestyle strategies, as coaches we can generally predict the If we could all repeat one affirmation to ourrate of change based off the chosen strategy. selves daily – what should that be?Ask: So the higher the adherence is from the client, What would the height of possibility look the more likely it is that the programme will like in my life if I allowed it? Be silent and let work. And since we programme most things to the answer come.

“Consistency is the currency to getting what you want.”

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WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

A SERIOUS RIDE The fitness studios taking your spin class to the next level

1Rebel

Situated behind the Arts Club, 1Rebel is an 11,600 square feet gym space with highpowered equipment including stationary spinning bikes for an intense body workout.

With curated playlists and state-of-the-art equipment, you can burn up to 800 calories per class. One session is priced at Dhs130 and it’s located at ICD Brookfield, this place is must-visit. @1rebel_uae CRANK Fitness Studio

For those who require a high-energy workout, spinning at Crank is nothing short of that with its adrenaline-fuelled music.

Each class is conducted by a 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. The first trial session is priced at Dhs60, with its location in Unit 43, Alserkal Avenue. @crank.uae

IMAGE: GETTY IMAGES

Boxica

This studio offers a range of different ride classes for those wanting a quick endorphin rush any time of the day. 30-50 minute sessions of intense cycling on their stateof-the-art equipment helps clients track progress through RPM and watts expended.

Of course, no ride class is complete without an epic soundtrack, and Boxica pairs their

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classes with heart-pumping beats to keep gym-goers working hard through to the end of the session. For membership packages, contact Boxica. The studio is located at The Hive Building, Studio City. @boxica Platform

Surrender to their coaches as they set the pace in a state-of-the-art studio and take you through a 45-minute dance party on the bike. The cycle classes are designed to be an experience to help you check out from your responsibilities of the day and achieve some me time. One session is priced at Dhs142.80 and it has locations around Dubai Marina, DIFC, Dubai Hills and Eden House. @theplatformstudios FitnGlam

Amp up your cardio fitness level with the ultimate indoor cycling experience. Surrender to rockstar instructors as they set the pace in the state-of-the-art studios with Stages bikes. These technologically advanced indoor bikes, set your success in motion with one of the smoothest, smartest and strongest rides of your life. This UAE’s premium women-only club promises a stronger environment for everyone to grow. For membership packages, contact FitnGlam. The studios are located across Al Ghurair Warehouses, Al Quoz, Sports Society Complex Mirdif and Dubai Hills Mall. @fitnglamgym

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In the office with Linda Sakr, Founder of Keyani WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

P H OTO G R A P H Y: A H M E D A B D E LWA H A B

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How long have you been in this space? During lockdown, I realised that we were all going through a major change collectively and I felt what people needed the most was a safe space whereby they can heal their mind, body and soul; so we opened our doors in August 2021.

Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces? Yes, our cafe counter, the indoor tables and our reception counter are bespoke. We also custom built our spacious yoga studio that faces our serene garden, the pergola that covers the outdoor area as well as our lovely, handcrafted Mykonos inspired bathroom.

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How do you think the interior reflects you? Our priority is to enhance wellbeing and so our aim was to turn our space into a cosy sanctuary using natural elements and materials as well as calming neutral colours. A welcome escape from our fast-paced lives!

Describe your taste in three words.

Serene. Boho. Cosy.

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Aman New York

Begin 2024 by embarking on a wellness odyssey by visiting these exquisite retreats across the globe.

WORDS: RUMAN BAIG

I

n the pursuit of holistic rejuvenation, discerning travellers seek havens that transcend the ordinary – destinations where the union of mind, body, and soul is not just a concept but a profound reality. Let’s explore a curated collection of wellness retreats, each an epitome of serenity and tailored experiences.

WALDORF ASTORIA MALDIVES ITHAAFUSHI

Unparalleled Tranquility

Nestled on the pristine shores of the Maldives, Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi stands as an idyllic sanctuary, dedicated to offering an unrivaled level of privacy and personalised services. The Waldorf Astoria Spa, surrounded by six tropical gardens and four overwater villas, invites guests into a realm of restorative treatments inspired by the elements of earth, water, fire, and metal. Signature treatments, such as the ‘Salt of the Earth’ and ‘Fire of the Sun’, harness ancient healing powers, providing a blissful escape for couples and families alike. @waldorfastoriamaldives LUX* BELLE MARE, MAURITIUS

Art of Wellbeing

Along the picturesque Belle Mare coastline in the Indian Ocean, LUX* Belle Mare, Mauritius, unveils the art of wellbeing at its LUX* Me Spa. Structured around the guiding principles of earth, water, fire, air, and space, the spa offers a selection of 60 treatments using homemade spa products. From glow-worthy facials to unconventional massages using bamboo and herbal poultices, guests can immerse themselves in the spirit of island living. The resort’s Wellness Immersion Programme allows guests to curate extraordinary experiences ranging from 3 to 7 days in this tropical paradise. @luxbellemare

THE WANDERLUST

Above: Arctic Bath Hotel; Right: (from top) Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi; Aman New York

ANANDA IN THE HIMALAYAS

Harmonising Energy in the Himalayan Foothills Nestled in the Himalayan foothills overlooking Rishikesh and the Ganges River valley, Ananda in the Himalayas is a multiaward-winning luxury wellness retreat. Dedicated to restoring balance and harmonising energy, Ananda integrates traditional Indian wellness practises with international experiences.

Signature wellness programmes such as Ayurvedic Rejuvenation, Detox, and Yogic Detox are guided by expert Ayurvedic doctors, skilled therapists, nutritionists, yogis, and spa cuisine chefs. The expansive spa, spread across 25,000 sq.ft., offers a holistic approach to wellbeing, combining the best of ancient practises and modern luxury. @anandainthehimalayas BRENNERS PARK HOTEL & SPA – BADEN-BADEN IN GERMANY

Mindful Escape

Brenners Park Hotel & Spa in Baden-Baden, Germany, is a haven of wellness nestled in the picturesque Black Forest. Renowned for its luxurious accommodations, the property seamlessly blends historic charm with modern amenities. The spa, a focal point of rejuvena-

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a rich history dating back to 1872, Brenners Park Hotel & Spa stands as a timeless destination for those seeking a harmonious balance of indulgence and wellness. @brennersparkhotel THE ARCTIC BATH HOTEL IN SWEDEN

Revitalise and Rejuvenate

This page: (from top) LUX* Belle Mare,

Modern Oasis

Aman New York, renowned for its luxurious accommodations and unparalleled service, seamlessly integrates wellness into its guest experience. The property boasts an exquisite spa and wellness centre, offering a sanctuary for rejuvenation amidst the bustling city. Guests can indulge in holistic treatments, immerse themselves in yoga and meditation sessions, or unwind in the serene atmosphere of the wellness facilities. The design of Aman New York reflects a harmonious blend of contemporary elegance and cultural richness, with spacious rooms and breathtaking views of the city skyline. Culinary enthusiasts can savour exquisite cuisine at the on-site restaurants, where a commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients enhances the dining experience. Aman New York transcends traditional hospitality, providing a haven for those seeking both opulence and wellbeing in the heart of the metropolis. @amannewyork

IMAGES: SUPPLIED

Mauritius; Ananda in the Himalayas

tion, offers an array of therapeutic treatments and thermal baths, promoting relaxation and overall wellbeing. Surrounded by lush gardens, the hotel provides a tranquil escape, while its Michelin-starred restaurant ensures a culinary journey. With

The Arctic Bath hotel in Sweden offers a unique and immersive wellness experience, set against the stunning backdrop of the Arctic Circle. Surrounded by nature, this floating hotel combines luxurious accommodations with a focus on wellbeing.

Guests can indulge in the hotel’s spa facilities, featuring saunas, hot baths, and refreshing dips in the icy waters, providing a holistic approach to relaxation and rejuvenation. The architecture seamlessly integrates with the natural environment, enhancing the sense of tranquility. The Arctic Bath hotel invites visitors to embrace the therapeutic benefits of the Arctic region, creating a one-of-a-kind escape that nourishes both body and soul. @arcticbath_sweden

THE AMAN IN NEW YORK

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WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

TAKE THE WELLNESS PLUNGE

Begin the year by experiencing a wellness deep-dive at one of the most picturesque resorts in the Maldives LIFESTYLE

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ith an overwhelming work schedule, long hours in front of the screen or a back-to-back itinerary of events, finding the time to breathe and take a break, doesn’t come easy – especially if you live in bustling metropolitan cities. An idyllic wellness escape to reset for 2024 is a must to balance and mind.

JOALI BEING BODUFUSHI

This property offers you personalised wellbeing programmes.

From the minute you enter, this wellness sanctuary focuses on finding out which aspect of yourself from the Mind, Micro-

biome, Skin and Energy needs attention. Home to a total of 68 guest villas, consisting of 33 beach villas and 35 water villas, each accommodation comes with its own private infinity pool.

Guided by a team of wellbeing experts, culinary maestros, herbalists, tea sommeliers, and personal trainers, among others, guests can fully immerse themselves in the island’s elemental therapies and healing

experiences. Inspired by the joy of spice markets is Aktar, also known as the herbology centre, to treat any ailments naturally.

For an immersive wellbeing experience, Areka provides recreation facilities with alternative healing treatments.

The Hero Experience

For healing through water, the Watsu therapy takes place in the Kaashi and focuses on the art of letting go with the therapist who stretches you through free-flowing exercises. All you have to do is trust the process. joalibeing.com SIX SENSES LAAMU

Surrounded by beautiful coral reefs, the accommodation options include a mix of overwater and beach villas. Prioritising privacy and seclusion, this resort is situated in the Laamu Atoll, a 25-minute speedboat ride from Velana International.

Visitors can discover their dosha with Ayurveda and enjoy nourishing local Maldives spa treatments and restorative facials.

Each post-treatment relaxation session ends with a gut-cleansing smoothie at the juice bar to top up the experience. From the meals you relish to the way you sleep and the earth beneath your feet, wellness is seamlessly integrated into your overall Six Senses experience.

The Hero Experience

Through a non-invasive wellness screening process, guests can book a consultation with the experts to understand what their body needs and then avail of a personalised spa treatment to cater to their specific needs.

Through biohacking, the team at the resort can optimise the body’s natural processes to recover quicker, helping the guest to look their best and make the most of their brief stay at the resort. The hacks feature compression therapy, pain relief and instant tension release. sixsenses.com/resorts/laamu CHEVAL BLANC RANDHELI

From a series of specially crafted experiences to exploring the marine-life-rich waters, this rejuvenating resort focuses on

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a results-driven renewal with three bespoke wellness journeys.

The first is a Wellbeing Journey that encourages gentle restoration through healing activities; the second is a Detox and Fitness Journey which sheds light on de-stressing and blends healthy dieting with diverse spa, fitness and sports practises; and the third is the Family Wellbeing Journey for the full family to accomplish their goals together through spa lessons and a teamwork culinary session.

The Hero Experience

Try the Moon Salutation Yoga for a soul-nourishing session at the Spa Yoga pavilion surrounded by the shimmering waters of Noonu Atoll. The session is followed by a Carte Blanche dining experience in the privacy of your villa. chevalblanc.com BAROS MALDIVES

One of the oldest resorts in the Maldives, guests here can put wellness at the forefront with experiences such as a complimentary morning yoga class on The Lighthouse Deck. The waves will lap gently on the sandbank shore as you stretch and breathe.

The Serenity Spa therapists can expertly tailor a series of treatments to suit individual guests to deliver maximum benefit during their holiday at Baros Maldives.

For soothing one’s mind and spirit, private yoga and meditation sessions can be arranged in the air-conditioned spa pavilion, on the guest’s villa deck, on the Lighthouse Deck or at sunrise and sunset on a sandbank.

The Hero Experience

The property’s resident yoga therapist takes guests on a yoga journey with advanced poses on the deck, where they are surrounded by crystal-clear water. baros.com FINOLHU

This property is situated in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Maldives. The resort’s Wellness Centre allows guests to enjoy a refreshing yoga session or an invigorating workout in an oceanfront setting amidst lush surroundings. With activities such as the semi-submarine,

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visitors can enjoy this experience to witness nature firsthand. Whether guests are staying as couples, family, or a group of friends, Finolhu is designed as an island playground with a choice of immersive experiences for everyone.

The Hero Experience

Cool down by sweating with the Hydrotherapy that instantly cleans the skin and ensures you feel relaxed. The facilities at Fehi Spa after an intense workout help to reduce muscle soreness the next day, with the plunge pool hydrotherapy an absolute must try. finolhu.com ANANTARA KIHAVAH MALDIVES VILLAS

This state-of-the-art resort works on healing from the inside out through the healing properties of indigenous plants and fruits. With restorative facials and vitamin IV infusions, including other detoxification therapies, its luxurious water villa spa goes back in time to rely on 5,000-year-old natural Ayurvedic healing techniques.

From holistic treatments to a customised rejuvenation journey with the resident Ayurvedic Master, visitors here can elevate their wellness experience at the resort’s stunning overwater Maldives spa.

The Hero Experience

Try the Kativasthi which is a unique spinal herbal bath where

a small natural paster reservoir is created on the lower back with the bare skin acting as its base. The medicated oil remains there for 45 minutes and is used to treat chronic or acute back pains including spinal disorders, lumbar spondylosis, sciatica and osteoporosis. anantara. com/kihavah-maldives

wellness goals. With its natureinspired design, the island’s wellness sanctuaries blend integrative medicine and complementary therapies to promote true healing and attempt to release visitors from unexplained stress and chronic illnesses.

The Medicinal Herbal Bath layers guests with both fresh and dry elements to boost their mood, calm the mind, soothe sore muscles, open pores, soften skin and promote a restful sleep. soneva.com/soneva-soul JUMEIRAH MALDIVES OLHAHALI ISLAND

SONEVA SOUL

This transformative wellness concept uses uplifting ancient healing wisdom coupled with the latest in science and innovation to connect the mind and soul.

The resort’s experienced therapists create a personalised wellness experience that empowers each guest to achieve long-term

The Hero Experience

Left page: Cheval Blanc Randheli; This page: (top)Joali Being Bodufushi; (below) Baros Maldives

Situated in the heart of Olhahali Island, this picturesque resort stands out for its Mediterranean chic design. Guests can take their pick with the therapeutic spa treatments or access the 24-hour fitness centre with captivating views of the crystal waves. Located just an hour by speedboat, or 15 minutes by seaplane, from Velana International, this property set in a beautiful archipelago is curated with calming interiors and lush green vegetation all around for nature to play its part in your wellness journey.

The Hero Experience

For an elevated wellbeing experience, opt for the Tibetan Crystal Healing Massage that allows the power of the Tibetan Singing Bowl and Healing Crystals to take root. As the treatment focuses on the vibrational sound that aids the vital energy to achieve a deeper sense of relaxation, the crystals interact with the body’s energy field, creating balance and alignment. jumeirah.com/stay/maldives/ jumeirah-maldives

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THE DIRECTORY

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Be Still Candle, 7oz Dhs257 D.S. & Durga

AROMATIC RESET WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

Create your own sanctuary of mindfulness and harness the aromatic power of pure incense resin, Himalayan cedar and cypress to align and reset your mind and body 122 emirateswoman.com

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20/12/2023 11:45 AM