from the desk
SEPTEMBER 2011 EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Salman Ibrahim Al Balushi GROUP EDITOR Mayank Singh DEPUTY EDITORS Rekha Baala Rana Alawneh ASSISTANT EDITOR Deepa Rajan CORRESPONDENTS Sushmita Sarkhel Myssaa Said Al Hinai DESIGN SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Sandesh S. Rangnekar SENIOR DESIGNER Aliya Al Waheibi SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER Rajesh Burman PHOTOGRAPHER Motasim Abdulla Al Balushi PRODUCTION MANAGER Govindraj Ramesh ADVERTISING & MARKETING ADVERTISING MANAGER Pooja Verma ASSISTANT ADVERTISING MANAGER Fareeda Sulaiman Al Balushi SENIOR MEDIA EXECUTIVE Benaifer
DREAMS UNLIMITED No one is a born achiever. The journey to success starts with a dream, or many dreams. If you are motivated and inspired enough, you can keep chasing your dreams and working hard to achieve them. There are scores of examples of women who have succeeded in whatever they chosen to do, and risen to the top even though the odds were against them. • Louisa May Alcott, author of Little Women was turned down by countless publishers who told her no one would read her classic. She became a bestselling author. • Wilma Rudolph contracted polio at the age of four, crippling her as a child. She was told that she would never walk. She went on to win three Olympic gold medals and was named the ‘fastest runner in the world’. • Marie Curie was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize – she actually won it twice. Despite many challenges, her investigations led to the discovery of radioactivity and radium.
CORPORATE CHIEF EXECUTIVE Sandeep Sehgal EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Alpana Roy VICE PRESIDENT Ravi Raman SENIOR BUSINESS SUPPORT EXECUTIVE Radha Kumar BUSINESS SUPPORT EXECUTIVE Zuwaina Al Rashdi DISTRIBUTION United Media Services LLC
• Amelia Earhart was the first woman to fly across the Atlantic Ocean. In 1937, her plane vanished while attempting to become the first person to fly around the world. • A childhood disease left her deaf, mute and blind. Helen Keller became an expert author and lecturer, and a role model for women all over the world. And why did these women succeed? Because they dared to dream and more importantly, dared to see their dream through and were not afraid of failure at any step. Look around you, and you can see women achievers everywhere. They are breaking gender stereotypes and many other barriers to reach where they are. True inspirations for generations for come.
Published by United Press & Publishing LLC A Renaissance Services Company
P.O. Box 3305, Ruwi, Postal Code 112, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. Tel: 00 968 24700896 Fax: 00 968 24707939 e-mail: almara@umsoman.com website: www.umsoman.com
Celebrated author Paulo Coelho says, “It’s the possibility of having a dream come true that makes life interesting.” So, dream on, and until next month, stay cool people!
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express permission of the publishers. Copyright © 2011 United Press & Publishing LLC Printed in the Sultanate of Oman at Oman Printers & Stationers
e-magazine – logon to www.oeronline.com or email us at almara@umsoman.com to get your personal e-magazine.
CONTENTS COVER STORY
Four women who dared to dream… and for whom life is one big adventure
16
52 A Q&A session with Dr Smita Lulla, Obstetrician & Gynaecologist.
28 Meet Nada Maqbool Sulaiman, a young gogetter who talks about her move from finance to a marketing position in her family business
FASHION & BEAUTY AM RECOMMENDS
53 The entire lowdown on Posture Improvement Therapy offered at VLCC
BEAUTY PLUS
EYE CANDY
38 Why Chris Evans is the hottest star right now…
54 Fruits that care for your skin in different ways
BEAUTY BUZZ
FEATURES TRAVEL
22 Traipse the length and breadth of India on some of the finest trains…
ENTERPRISE
56 All about chemical peeling and how it benefits the skin by Dr. Fatma O. Ali, CEO of Emirates Medical Centre
BEAUTY ZONE
62 The beauty check-list.
26 The Pink Leaf Plus + is a boutique for plussize women. Owner Edina Hartnell on why it’s a unique concept
CAREER
32 Sonia Badour of Oman Arab Bank talks of her success strategies
GOOD THINGS
40 All things fashionable and trendy…
48
48 Sweat it out with some ‘different’ fitness routines the stars favour
HEALTH PLUS
PEOPLE PROFILE
38
SOLUTIONS FITNESS
TOP DRIVE
60 Al Mar’a test-drives the Porsche Panamera – a style statement for today’s women
68 Lubna Al Zakwani on why her designs are one-of-a-kind. Presenting haute couture that combines traditional patterns with modern cuts and styles
EVENTS 14 The Al Mar’a Excellence Awards will honour successful women from all walks of life 13 The Dar Al Atta’a Eid Fair was a grand success…
BLOGSPACE
74 Featuring www.howtolivelikeanomaniprincess. blogspot.com – one of the hottest blogs on the WWW
BACK TO SCHOOL SPECIAL WELL-BEING
34 How to prepare for the new school year. Some tips from Dr. Prema Seshadri 36 Umaima Al Wahaibi talks of life and learning away from home 37 Some must-have products to begin the new year with a bang…
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68
FOOD CUISINE
64 Traditional Eid recipes from four countries
On the cover: Priyah Prakash wearing a Lubna Al Zakwani creation Cover Design: Sandesh S. Rangnekar
IN EVERY ISSUE
Your Say •Life, etc •Stargazing•News
YOUR SAY
Address your letters to: The Editor, Al Mar’a, United Media Services P.O. Box: 3305, PC 112 Ruwi, Sultanate of Oman or fax us at 24707939 or e-mail us at almaraoman@gmail.com
GIVING AND RECEIVING Your lead story, ‘The Art of Giving’ was a real eye-opener. Yes, it is the duty of each one of us to give back to society, in whatever form. Yes, it’s easy to say you care, but is imperative that we go out there and do something about. The individuals and organisations that you have featured in your story are true examples of the maxim, ‘where there is a will, there is a way’. It was heart-warming to read about Basma making children’s dreams come true. The voluntary activities of both Baidha Al Sikaiti, Jane Jaffer and Najla Al Futaisi, I am sure will also encourage many others to come forward and work for causes they believe in. Being a volunteer is a very fulfilling experience; it only enriches the person receiving your care; but makes you a humbler and better person. I feel that doing service to others also brings immense happiness and contributes to your overall well-being. SANGITA RADHAKRISHNAN AL KHUWAIR
RADIO GA-GA I simply loved your feature on the Radio Merge 104.8 presenters. I love listening to Radio Merge 104.8 all the time and find it the most cool and happening radio station. It’s peppy, youthful and very entertaining. Your feature provided an insight into the personalities behind the presenters and made an interesting reading. Here’s looking forward to more features of this kind. INGRID SMITH SEEB AWESOME STUFF Siham Tib is an awesome fashion designer. And she looked beautiful on the cover of your magazine. I like the way she has given traditional wear a modern twist without really compromising much on tradition. Within a short time, she has managed to come into her own with her diverse collections. Yes, her pieces are definitely one-of-a-kind, each distinctive in her own way. SARAH AL KINDY MUTTRAH
WANT MORE GLOBAL BRANDS Khadija Al Lamki’s fashion collection was truly out of this world. She designed abayas that are chic, stylish and trendy too. Just one suggestion, why don’t you guys feature global brands these days. I miss the Dior, Elie Saab, Chanel and Carolina Herrera fashion collections on your pages. Please include some global trends also next time around. It would certainly bring in more colour and diversity to your fashion pages. A true fashionista needs to know what’s hot right now, with all the fashion brands of the world. AMIRA AL RIYAMI GHUBRA FESTIVE DELIGHTS The Cuisine pages were truly scrumptious. What wonderful pictures… It indeed was a wholesome iftar meal. And the recipes were simple too, and could be easily replicated in my kitchen. Thanks for giving some great ideas to break our Ramadan fasts with. SHABNAM KHAN QURUM
the intuitive and the inventive...
6
SEPTEMBER 2011
NEWS
Go for Bold
Spirit of youth
Research In Motion (RIM) and Oman Mobile announced the launch of the new BlackBerry® Bold™ 9900 smartphone in the Sultanate which is available in Omantel and Oman Mobile stores. It is the thinnest BlackBerry smartphone yet at only 10.5mm, and the first to offer the perfect union of a high performance keyboard and touch display integrated within the iconic BlackBerry Bold design. The new BlackBerry Bold 9900 is also the first BlackBerry smartphone to include built-in support for NFC (Near Field Communications), a new technology that is enabling many new and exciting capabilities, including the ability to pair with NFCenabled accessories or read SmartPoster tags with a simple tap of the smartphone. Lovely!
Check out the Mercedes-Benz’ glamorous new C-Class Coupe and the third generation of its most successful sports cars ever – the SLK Roadster. Launched recently, the innovative and sporty new Mercedes-Benz models will draw gasps from the Sultanate’s fashionable automotive elite with their stunning looks and youthful, inspirational characters. Book a test-drive, now!
Show stopper Siemens Home Appliances and Aran Modular Kitchens from Khimji Ramdas were chosen as the backdrop for Oman TV’s cookery show at a leading bank’s premises. This special programme ran for 25 days this Ramadan from midnight to 2am. Chef Issa Al Lamki, the famous Omani TV chef whipped up some Suhoor recipes ranging from a wide array of international cuisines Like Arabic, European, Asian and many more. We simply loved it!
For a cause This one’s good and we support it whole-heartedly. The Box Appeal - a charity campaign that aims to help those less privileged – was launched for the first time in Oman. Initiated in 2007, this is the first time Radisson Blu and Park Inn hotels in Muscat will take part in this successful charity campaign. The Box Appeal asks people to give back to those who need it most by filling a small box with a list of everyday items such as toothpaste, toothbrush, comb, towel, body soap, etc. To take part, all the participants have to do is pick up a box from the Radisson Blu or Park Inn Hotels or from the appeal’s partners, Muscat City Centre or Qurum City Centre, fill the box with the requested items and return to the distribution point. Have you filled your box, yet? 8
SEPTEMBER 2011
Top Rank Did you know that according to the recently released J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) StudySM, Jaguar and Land Rover brands rank among the top five nameplates, both with improved scores for 2011? Jaguar ranks second among nameplates for the fourth year in a row with a score of 857; while Land Rover ranks 4th among nameplates, up from fifth last year, with an overall score of 841. Land Rover’s Range Rover is the award recipient for Large Premium Crossover/ SUV, two years in a row. Way to go!
High-flier Are you a motor racing enthusiast? Then, this the right travel package for you! Oman Air Holidays is offering motor racing enthusiasts the trip of a lifetime this autumn, with an exclusive package to the iconic Silverstone circuit in the UK, where the finale of the Porsche Carrera Cup GB will decide the Championship rankings for 2011. This is a unique opportunity to personally meet Oman Air Racing team’s Ahmad al Harthy and other racing stars at one of the most exciting motor racing championships in the world and to get exclusive, behind-the-scenes access at the legendary Silverstone circuit. The five-day, three-night trip will depart Muscat on October 14. For more info, contact Oman Air Holidays right away!
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NEWS
On Call
Cool Connect
It’s time to take advantage of yet another new promotion from Nawras, an exciting addition to its popular Elite Program. All customers can now be rewarded for receiving calls after talking for just five minutes or more. Every incoming or received call that exceeds five minutes will earn customers five bonus points which can be collected and cashed in for free SMS and free calls. Cool, eh?
There’s a new airline in town. IndiGo, India’s fastest growing low fare airline has announced its foray into the international market. While Mumbai-Muscat-Mumbai flights will be commencing from October, bookings on the flights are currently open for sales. The carrier will operate four flights a week between Muscat and Mumbai leaving Muscat a little after midnight at 0005 hours on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. The same flight will continue to Singapore after a brief stopover in Mumbai. The Mumbai-Muscat flight will be on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday reaching Muscat at 2245 hours. It’s time to be a frequent flier, don’t you think?
Simply the best Congratulations are in order. Landmark Group, Middle East’s largest and most successful retail organization, won ‘Best Employer Award’ at the 2nd Asia’s Best Employer Brand Award ceremony held in Suntec City, Singapore, last month. This award was the crowning glory for the Group that won a total of six awards in other categories. The award, says Vipin Sethi, - CEO, Landmark Group is recognition of the Group’s core ideologies of employee development and empowerment. Here’s to many more accolades in the future too!
Giving Back Be a star
Tough Wash Get a load of LG’s new 12kg front load washing machine, the largest capacity washer ever introduced in the standardsized class. Packed with top-grade features, the washing machine’s 6 Motion Direct Drive technology tailors its washing cycles depending on particular fabric types, while TrueSteam™ provides an enhanced deep-clean performance and family care, and Smart Diagnosis™ provides stress-free assistance to keep the machine in perfect working order. Perfect for large families!
During the Holy Month of Ramadan, Kenwood launched Kenwood Stars, a competition to tickle your taste buds! Entering is easy, just upload your favourite home video to www. kenwoodstars. com - it can be of you cooking at home, your best secret recipe, cooking in an unusual location, meeting a celebrity chef or if you like, just something very funny that you want to share! Every week, the video with the most votes will win a top of the range Kenwood Food Processor and five lucky runners-up will receive a Kenwood Triblade hand blender. The best video overall, selected by special celebrity judge, Chef Osama, will be walking away with the revolutionary Kenwood Cooking Chef, which is a one-stop, multi-tasking kitchen machine that can handle almost every cooking challenge! The competition began in August and winners will be announced on September 4. Capital Store is the agent for Kenwood in Oman.
Driven by the core principles of delivering long-term benefits to the local community, Omran along with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries and The Agriculture Association for Al Batinah Region Farmers launched an income generating programme called ‘Intajee’. The programme is a tool to support the growth of existing micro-businesses and aims to empower families residing in Al Batinah to improve their livelihoods through selling locally grown products such as honey, dates, eggs, fruits and vegetables, all of which will be made available to the public at Lulu Hypermarket in Bousher. In Arabic, Intajee means ‘my product’. All families enrolled in the programme will receive 100 per cent of the profit their products generate.
the persevering and the proficient... 10 SEPTEMBER 2011
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Qurum Clinic, a well-known clinic in Muscat has moved to more spacious premises at Rabiat Al Qurum. The new premises are convenient in terms of accessibility and location and also offer plenty of parking space. The clinic recently completed 25 years of serving Omanis and expatriates through its various medical facilities and services. “We are very happy to be able to serve our patients better. Over the past 25 years, we have built a good rapport with them and have helped to treat their various gynaec and obstetric problems and helped a large number of them make their families complete in every way,� said Dr. Smita Lulla, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynecologist at Qurum Clinic.
NEWS
Sporty Fun
Chic & Trendy Chopard has launched the Imperial evening clutches, a nod to the eponymous watch and jewellery collection. The Imperial clutch bag, just like the Imperial watch and jewellery collection, is intended for refined, dynamic and natural women with a strong personality who appreciates the discreet luxury of extremely beautiful objects. At nightfall, it weaves a seductive spell that is bound to charm all those who appreciate the sophisticated elegance and sensual feel of leather, while others will succumb to the delicate softness of silk. The delightful interlacing quilted pattern is a refined reflection of the motif gracing the dials of Imperiale watches, while its rose goldtoned clasp also shimmers and glows in the candle light. This timelessly chic accessory available in blackclad leather or silk versions makes a perfect match for the must-have Little Black Dress (LBD) and will prove an ideal companion for elegant evenings. For more info, contact Khimji’s Watches.
The Nissan Juke comes to Oman! The Nissan Juke, with significant platform commonality with the popular Murano and Qashqai, is aimed at a younger clientele that desires style, performance, energy and a break from the run-of-the-mill products. Juke combines attitude, irreverence, edgy style and energy with a mischievous sense of fun. Nissan Juke belongs to a new generation of vehicles providing a new look to the compact category with unique styling features. Juke is a distinctive combination of SUV toughness and sporting style. Designed and engineered in Japan, Nissan Juke is conceived to inject masculinity and dynamism into the compact vehicle market.
Suave & Stylish The most stunning range of cars from Geely International Corporation’s Emgrand range is now available in Oman at Towell Auto Centre (TAC). With the aim of providing the people of the Sultanate with yet more best in class cars, TAC has recently launched Geely Embrand’s LC, EC 7 (Sedan and Hatchback), and EC 8 (2.0L and 2.4L) models at their showroom in Wattayah. A fast developing automobile manufacturer, Geely makes quality cars that are environment friendly and energy efficient.
Customer Care If you are a Nokia customer and are in Salalah, the opening of the Nokia Care Centre by Belltel will come as a great advantage. The new Nokia Care Centre offers a holistic solution to consumers providing not only repair assistance, but also support for Nokia services including the Nokia Ovi Store, Nokia Music Store and Nokia Mail for Exchange as well as Nokia Messaging. The Care Centre is the latest addition to the already existing two Nokia Care branded touch points around the Sultanate.
Nizwa calling Lulu comes to Nizwa. One of the country’s biggest hypermarkets was inaugurated by H.E Sheikh Saad bin Mohammed al Saadi, Minister of Commerce and Industry, at a glittering ceremony in the presence of dignitaries and officials from the government and the private sector. This marks Lulu’s 10th venture in Oman and the 95th in the region, following an aggressive expansion policy that saw it opening several new stores in the cities and wilayats during the past 10 years.
the insightful and the ingenious...
12 SEPTEMBER 2011
EVENT
From the heart
The Eid fair organised by the Dar Al Atta’a was a huge success. Here’s a report…
W
e’re sure you know that the annual Eid exhibition was organised by the Dar Al Atta’a charitable organisation last month at Al Noor Hall at Madinat Sultan Qaboos. We do hhope you were there but if you missed it, here are the details… th TThe fair was opened by H.E. Dr. Madiha Al Shaibani, Minister of Education. S A large number of stalls featuring women’s ggarments, abayas, accessories, handbags, pperfumes, jewellery, pottery, furniture, cosmetics, pperfumes, etc participated in the exhibition. It was the perfect opportunity for a large number of w women to showcase their home-run businesses. w
Also at the Fair, renowned fashion designer Siham Tib had her own special stall that featured both evening dresses and beach kaftans in vibrant colours and intricate designs. The entrance fee and amount collected through leasing stalls went towards meals for the underprivileged during the Holy Month of Ramadan. Dar Al Atta’a had also launched the ‘One Rial’ campaign earlier that will run for three months and was introduced to encourage people to donate at least one rial from their monthly salaries, to enable Dar Al Atta’a to help needy families. The Eid fair is a not-to-be-missed one; so keep an eye out for it and do be there next year too.
SEPTEMBER 2011 13
EVENT
Celebrating Success The Al Mar’a Excellence Awards will honour and felicitate women who have conquered the odds; reached challenging positions in diverse fields and also enriched the lives of those around them…
It
takes that ‘extra’ something to truly shine above the rest and Omani women, more so than others, have shown what passion and conviction can help one achieve. And now, it’s time for us to celebrate the women who’ve not only dared to dream but have gone the extra mile to prove their commitment towards serving and enriching their communities and society at large. In October, the Al Mar’a Excellence Awards will felicitate these women who have inspired those around them with their vision and accomplishments. All eyes will be on those who’ve gone the extra mile to turn their dreams to reality; who have conquered the odds and have reached challenging positions in diverse areas including business, government, industry, education and more. Al Mar’a has always celebrated the various shades of a woman and staying true to this dictum, the Awards have been designed to range across 12 categories, namely: Corporate Leadership, Fashion Design, Performing Arts, Fine Arts, Educational Services, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Health Services, Science and Industry, Technology, Sports, Petroleum Services and Social Responsibility. Apart from these, two women will also be the recipient of the prestigious Woman of the Year and Most Promising Woman of the Year Awards. The Awards will judge women
on the basis of criteria like innovation and creativity, the impact their contributions have had in society, their leadership abilities and the goals achieved and the final ranking process with be appraised by our official auditing partners, Ernst & Young.
your (or your nominee’s) supporting documentation at United Media Services, Ruwi.
In light of this, we invite you to submit the names of women who you think are powerful examples and have made a positive impact in our society as well as their respective fields. Nomination forms are redeemable online (www. applauseeventsme.com) and/or also available at selected retail outlets, which will then have to be submitted with
your s ’ t i s, Ladie ine! h s o t time
Winners will be announced at the Al Mar’a Excellence Awards, on October 26, 2011 at Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa.
The Al Mar’a Excellence Awards is an Al Mar’a Initiative. Official Auditing Partners: Ernst & Young. Strategic Partner: Mercedes-Benz (Zawawi Trading Company, the authorised general distributor for Mercedes-Benz in Oman). Media Partners: Times of Oman & Al Shabiba. Radio Media Partners: Al Wisal FM and Merge 104.8 FM
14 SEPTEMBER 2011
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COVER STORY
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FOUR WOMEN ACHIEVERS TELL AL MAR’A THEIR INCREDIBLE STORIES...
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, d by ad e l o l r e av Two s tr s e e l I ne ll th o and a e e h ad ok t sm a I to h t tha d n a ce . n e r e n by e di f f k a ot T N d a e Ro s t h T – ro rt F e b Ro
Dare to dream… dare to be
different 16 SEPTEMBER 2011
H
ow many of us, dare to dream and more importantly, dare to translate it into something different? How many of us want to jump out of our comfortable cocoons and take the road less travelled? How many of us want to feel the thrill of doing something that not only lights up our hearts and minds, but also our souls as well. There are those who dream, and then there are others who live their dream. Al Mar’a profiles four women for whom adventure is not just a passion, but a way of life…
SCALING THE PEAK MUNA AL SHANFARI “Technique and ability alone do not get you to the top - it is the willpower that is the most important. This willpower you cannot buy with money or be given by others - it rises from your heart.” - Junko Tabei after becoming the first woman to climb Everest in 1975. ‘There are no limits except the ones we place on ourselves’ holds true with every extraordinary story one hears of women achievers. Stories that speak of exemplary grit and courage… of going where one has rarely attempted to go before. Muna Al Shanfari’s is one such story. She is the first Omani woman to have raised the Omani flag at Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa. She also climbed Aconcagua in Argentina, reaching the Canada camp at 5,050 metres. She’s the second Arab woman to attempt Aconcagua. A compliance officer with Sarasin Alpen (she has a Bachelors from Middlesex University, UK and is a certified antimoney laundering specialist), Muna has always had a love for the outdoors. “My sisters and I would go swimming at the beach on Fridays with my mum. We did horse riding during the summer while on holiday in the UK. We also attended summer camps there and took part in a lot of outdoor activities and sports like
r ke ou a m s f t ac le s e r ie s o “Ob s a i ng ; jus t le ad l i ve s o c l i m b, r.” t e a te s r g p e g st in me t h o s o t na - Mu
archery, fencing and canoeing. I am also a certified diver (PADI) and dive in Oman and abroad as well.” It’s no wonder then that Muna loves the adventure rush… the thrill of wanting to try something new. But there’s also a strong element of practicality to her personality. “I always assess the risks first before I try anything new. I took up mountaineering as a form of challenge and for testing my limits,” she explains. What made her think of Mount
Kilimanjaro as her goal? “I had a male colleague who had climbed the mountain and raised the Omani flag but I wanted to be the first woman to do that on Kilimanjaro,” she says. Muna explains that planning for any climb takes at least six months of preparation – from training to getting sponsorship or funding. Also, the journey to the top does not
SEPTEMBER 2011 17
COVER STORY
our nge y a h c er the “ Ne v l i t y f o r us e be c a na i , s g i r r e o h yo u r of o t s a k e c a n p l ay o u.” ny ne n o o t te r t h a e b ro le a sh w - Na
come without its share of hardships and challenges. Muna recollects that for both climbs, the challenges were different. “In Kilimanjaro, it was the upset stomach which I had from day one of the expedition, the risk of malaria and the low temperature at Barafu camp. Other challenges included dealing with people, especially when there was lack of cooperation or team spirit. In Aconcagua, the experience was different. The group of climbers with me was very friendly and there was a real team spirit between us. Aconcagua was physically demanding and the temperatures were extreme when compared to Kilimanjaro, sometimes dropping below minus 20 degrees C at the base camp. Muna sums up her feelings on reaching the summit thus: “I was ecstatic. I was so tired when I was reaching the summit but when I saw a famous signboard, I ran to it. The best part was flying the Omani flag. I felt so proud being amongst other climbers from Canada and America. She has already conquered two mountains but Muna does not want to
18 SEPTEMBER 2011
rest on her achievements. She wants to set her sights even higher. “I have attempted Aconcagua; I will want to attempt it again but would like to climb other less challenging mountains before I go back to the Andes. My next mountain may be in the Himalayas,” she says. Her biggest inspiration, she tells us, has been Susan Al Houby, the first Arab woman to reach Everest this year. “I would like to thank my sponsors for taking a risk and believing in me and helping me raise awareness of the use of car safety seats for infants and children and partially donating some of the sponsorship money to Awladna Campaign (Car Seat Project) for the purchase of car seats,” she says. What is her message to Omani women who want to follow their dreams and achieve them? Muna’s sense of practicality again comes to the fore. “I think having confidence and persistence to pursue your goals and yet also
being realistic about them is important especially if you have a family to juggle along with other things in your lives.” This woman of substance has her heart, mind and sights on the right places. As she succinctly puts it, “Obstacles make our lives; just a series of steps to climb, leading to something greater.”
THE GIRL ON A MOTORCYCLE NASHWA AL KINDI Being the first Omani woman licensed to drive a motorcycle in Oman is a mean feat indeed! And she certainly makes us all proud… for this feisty woman knows what she wants… and is not afraid to go off the beaten track to get it. Nashwa had always wanted to ride a bike ever since she was a kid. Her first bike was a 125 cc, which she promptly fell off on her first ride. The excitement of riding one, she says, was too much for her. That, however did not deter her and she moved on… buying her dream bike in 2009.
share of incidents. We ask her about one such unforgettable memory. “Once, I was riding my bike to the city centre when I came upon a sharp turn. I almost fell off the bike but maneuvered it well though the metal plate scraped the asphalt at the turn. It felt good to be able to make such a turn without falling off!” she recollects.
“Riding your first bike is an unforgettable experience. It’s like your first love… you never forget it,” she says. “The thrill is even more because everyone around you thought and even told you that you couldn’t do it. It felt great at having achieved a dream.” Nashwa rides a Yamaha 650 cc, a beautiful classic bike and turns heads wherever she goes, both for the right and wrong reasons. Many are still surprised to see an Omani girl zooming away on a bike. But Nashwa does not mind. “I did not do it to rebel against anything. I love riding for no other reason except for my happiness.”
Her determination echoes in her strong beliefs about herself and what she wants to do. “Never change your originality for the sake of others, because no one can play your role better than you. So be yourself, because whatever you are, you are the best. Also I feel that no one can tell you what you can or can’t do,” she says. Nashwa would love to get a ‘bigger bike’ and maybe go on a long cruise around the Gulf and the world one day. As she zooms on her bike at high speeds, she’s breaking many stereotypes, and also blazing a trail of her own!
Her first diving experience was also away from her home country, Egypt. “We had crossed the desert and come
Though biking was her passion, Nashwa was aware of ground realities too. She is a hard-working person who believes nothing comes easy. “I was never unemployed… I worked as a photographer for four years and later as a driving instructor for one year. Self-respect is very important to me. I also worked in the Customer Service Department at Nawras,” she avers.
Being on a bike comes with its own
When it comes to pumping up the adrenaline, no one would know it better than Stefanie Trier. The operations manager at Art Marine LLC is a total outdoors person – she dives, climbs mountains, has gone on a rally across the desert and also bikes across the mountains. Phew! Is there anything really that she’s not done? “Well, coming from Cologne, Germany, it’s amusing for people to hear that I’m not interested in skiing at all!” she says with a chuckle. Stefanie started deep sea diving at the age of 18. A year before that, she went on a desert rally from Cologne to Khartoum and back. She was a young co-pilot of the car and was raring to go.
What’s the feeling she has when she is on the bike? “I feel free and at peace… This is ‘me’! It’s like what you attain when you do yoga… it really cannot be explained in words,” she says.
Nashwa has participated in many events and competitions and she has also gone to Dubai to attend a bike show and drove alone twice to the neighbouring Emirate. She has also participated in a number of shows in Oman.
THE WORLD IS HER OYSTER STEFANIE TRIER
do l t to u c fi if u no t d i f yo “ I t ’s r sp o rt s o f oo ls o u td a s ic le ve e b ni h ave .” - Ste f a ss fit ne
COVER STORY
to the coast and I decided I had to go diving. However, the courses were not that good and the currents were very strong. But it was very exciting to see life underwater and the thrill has stayed with me since. Not content, Stefanie went on to do some skydiving in Mexico. “But since bad weather was a deterrent, I decided to go in for a cave-diving course. The fresh water caves were a revelation but at the end of it, I was tired and wanted to go back to normal diving,” she says. Apart from these, Stefanie also enjoys the rigours of mountain biking in Oman. So in essence, she calls herself a ‘water and desert person’ and has travelled and worked in many countries across the world that includes Australia, Indonesia, Thailand, Venezuela (in fact, most of Central America) and now the Middle East. Certainly, life so adventurous would not come without its own set of challenges. Challenges are a given, says Stefanie, and elaborates: “When I was working in the Maldives, there were strong down currents that could prove to be dangerous. So long as you are taking care of yourself, it’s fine but when it’s a group, you should be equipped to handle any situation. In the desert, if you’re wellprepared, it’s okay… navigating is not so difficult these days because technology is so advanced, “ she says. What does she like about Oman? “The country has been a big revelation for me… I love the landscapes, high mountains, deserts and beaches and the people are also very friendly. On my agenda is to visit the Muriya islands and dive there.” Stefanie feels that Oman is a beautiful place that offers different levels of physical endurance. “It’s not difficult to do outdoor sports if you have basic levels of fitness. There are easy and difficult treks and even for mountain biking, there are different terrains. There’s so much diversity here that you can find something that matches your interest,” she concludes.
20 SEPTEMBER 2011
THE ART OF BEING DIFFERENT NEVEEN AL MUHARBI Young Omani women practising the martial arts are a rare sight. And so Neveen Al Muharbi certainly falls into the category of determined and spirited young women who always want to try something different. A taekwondo exponent and a trainer, the 27-year-old Neveen took to the sport 12 years ago. Since then, she has participated in a number of competitions in Oman and other parts of the Gulf. She also underwent a special course for referees. “I now help in training students and am very happy that I could practice the sport in this capacity,” she says. Why taekwondo? “Why not taekwondo,” counters Neveen as she goes on to explain that though it’s a martial art, it’s also a sport that has many benefits. “It enhances self-esteem by heightening your physical and mental powers; builds confidence by encouraging you to succeed; develops discipline; teaches self-defence and strengthens both mind and body.” “Taekwondo has become an integral part of
my life to the extent that I cannot imagine life without it. I place this sport on the list of my top priorities and is as important to me as my work or studies. Although I have a tough schedule on my hands, I do find the time to dedicate a number of hours to the sport every week,” she says. Of course, like in any other sport, there are challenges too. “Taekwondo exponents do not receive the required care and interest from sports officials. We still don’t have an official auditorium as yet. There are no training camps before competition. We also lack opportunities for interaction with professional players from different parts of the world. If this happens, it will ensure better representation of the Sultanate in different competitions,” she says. Al Mar’a wishes her the very best in all her endeavours.■
h as ndo l o w k e gra t n i “Tae e n me a l i fe t o t h o c e b y n’t of m t I ca ut p a rt a h t nt tho e x te e l i f e w i n i i m ag e ve e n N i t.” -
TRAVEL
‘IF GOD HAD MEANT FOR US TO FLY, HE WOULDN’T HAVE GIVEN US THE RAILWAYS.’ - UNKNOWN
ROMANCING
THE TRAINS
22 SEPTEMBER 2011
THE GOLDEN CHARIOT
In
the picture file of the memory zone of most romantics, there is a glossy/sepia-toned image of a train chugging along a rustic village, seemingly in the middle of nowhere, with farms and wild plants swaying to its rhythmic chant. There is a feel-good factor associated with this ideal image. Of a travel whose destination is not as important as the actual journey… Train journeys are, indeed, magical. They are journeys within journeys prompting the ones with quixotic bent of mind to let their imagination soar with the images whizzing by the window. The rhythm of the engine, the susurration of the breeze whistling by, the faint echoes of laughter from far compartments, the stillness projected by rushing visuals – magic! And if one is referring to Indian trains, which are known to infuse a familial ambience even among strangers seated in a compartment, that magic is seismic. Shared food and easy banter highlight these journeys that have all the elements of becoming memorable events. And with Bollywood movies adding to this charm called trains, is it any wonder that
they have become an important aspect of tourism within the country? There is, of course, nothing luxurious about these journeys, except probably the air-conditioned coach, but the text below romances the royal trains that have become new bandwagons for tourism. There is luxury and royalty associated with these trains that are marketed for connoisseurs of travel, seeking to indulge their senses. With names like Palace on Wheels, Royal Orient, etc, pampered lifestyle is a rule rather than an exception aboard these coaches.
ROYAL RAJASTHAN ON WHEELS Royal Rajasthan on Wheels or Palace on Wheels II was initiated as an answer to quell the disappointment of passengers who were unable to find a reservation on the Palace on Wheels.
FACILITIES This is presented as an upgraded version of Palace on Wheels and accordingly includes more comforts and luxuries. It has super deluxe coach and deluxe coach with double occupancy facilities in the cabins. Attention is given to space as the number
This is a royal escapade to the lap of nature; Karnataka’s answer to Palace on Wheels. It is named after the ‘Stone Chariot’ of the Hampi Village, representing tales of its glorious past. Introduced in 2008, it is a joint initiative between Karnataka Tourism Corporation and Indian Railways to promote Karnataka tourism and Goan culture.
FACILITIES The facilities are five-star all the way, without any compromises on the element of luxury which is its biggest asset. The train has 18 air-conditioned coaches which are catered by two restaurants that have multi cuisine menu and a bar, gymnasium, special facilities for the physically handicapped, mail box, medical aid, internet, etc.
ITINERARY It is a seven-night and eight-day programme that begins from Bangalore every Monday (during the travel season from August to April). The imperial caravan travels along the routes of Karnataka and Goa, bringing to the passengers a captivating slice of India’s scenic beauty. It covers Mysore, Kabini, Belur, Hampi, Badami and Goa, before returning back to Bangalore. Packed within these destinations are visits to Srirangapatnam, Mysore Palace, Nagarhole National Park, World Heritage Site, historical monuments, beach stopovers…
SEPTEMBER 2011 23
ROYAL ORIENT TRAIN For a journey down the memory lanes of the times of India’s Rajas and Maharajas the Royal Orient Train is the one to patronise. It presents the charms of culturally rich states of Gujarat and Rajasthan as a royal getaway on wheels. This exotic journey is replete with all the accoutrements of luxury, including personalised service from liveried attendants. This initiative from the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat and the Indian Railways, has on offer 13 coaches and saloons, all named after the Rajputana kingdoms.
FACILITIES of passengers on board is less. There is a common lounge, an international spa and WiFi internet facility.
ITINERARY This route covers Delhi, Jaipur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Udaipur, Chittaurgarh, Bharatpur and Agra.
PALACE ON WHEELS Ranked as one of the ten best luxurious train journeys in the world and described as a journey worthy of kings, Palace on Wheels is a trip conceived to recreate the lifestyle of the royalty of Rajasthan. Diehard train fans should have this destination marked in their must-see list.
the train are also named after the earlier Rajput states like Jaipur, Kota, Jaisalmer, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Alwar, Sirohi, Kishangarh, Bundi, Dungarpur, Bharatpur, Jhalawar and Dholpur.
FACILITIES This is the epitome of luxury with facilities woven around the lifestyle of the kings and the nobility. The Palace is equipped with plush restaurants and lounges, bars, library, individually designed saloons with bathrooms, etc. There are also personal attendants to look into the needs of the passengers, beginning with a special traditional royal welcome at every station.
ITINERARY For the uninitiated, Rajasthan is a very colourful state of India, endowed with rich cultural and traditional heritage which can be evinced in its monuments and historical structures like the ‘Haveli’ (olden mansion) and temples. The 14 coaches on
24 SEPTEMBER 2011
From multi cuisine restaurants to bars and library, it is equipped to pamper the passengers. It infuses the element of regality of the days of the nobility and presents passengers with a taste of their lifestyle through safaris and royal visits.
The train traverses through Jaipur (popularly called the Pink City), Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Ranthambhore National Park, Chittorgarh, Udaipur (city of lakes), Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Agra and finally India’s capital Delhi.
ITINERARY It is a journey through Gujarat and Rajasthan – two of India’s most mesmerising states. The mysticism of these states - their colourful traditions and legends and the abundance of natural beauty - is what attracts tourists.
HERITAGE ON WHEELS This is a luxurious tourist train; a condominium of comfort on meter gauge. The experience of traveling through the poorly populated region of Shekhawati has been described as enigmatic. The streets of Shekhawati are lined with havelis that are adorned with open air art galleries whose paintings tell stories
of great battles. The train moves from the dry land to the scenic art gallery, presenting glimpses of old world charm with images of turban clad men and camels in a series of passing images.
a mark in the Guinness Book of World Records and winning the National Tourism Award. It was built in 1855 for East India Railways and has only a first class chair car with 50 seats plus a pantry for catering. It was restarted after a long gap of 142 years in 1997.
FACILITIES Royalty and luxury meet to present a heady concoction of high living with restaurants and shopping facilities within the train.
ITINERARY Some of the fascinating destinations in the itinerary are Bikaner, Nawalgarh, Ramgarh and Mandawa, including Gajner and Tal Chhapar animal sanctuaries. It is a week-long sojourn savouring the vistas of havelis and forts.
DECCAN ODYSSEY TRAIN A joint venture between the Government of Maharashtra and Indian Railways, the Deccan Odyssey, which was built for the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation, traverses along scenic Mahrashtra, capturing the essence of Konkan coast and presenting the regions art, culture and heritage. 80 passengers are taken aboard this train, on an eightday tour.
FACILITIES Regal splendor and the lavish lifestyle of the maharajas have been captured within the compartment of Deccan Odyssey to savour luxury on this beautiful journey, which has earned it a repute of being a world class travel experience. This 21coach train is built on the lines of a fivestar hotel with air-conditioned suite cars and cabins, conference area, restaurants and other cars for gym and a beauty salon. A special space is designated for ayurvedic treatment and massage.
WORLD HERITAGE TRAIN (DARJEELING TOY TRAIN)The beauty and essence of this train has been captured by Bollywood in many a movie, creating an element of romance around it. The short distance of 83 kilometers is covered in 8 hours for a languorous treat of Darjeeling. The plan for Darjeeling Railway came about from Franklin Prestage, an agent of the Eastern Bengal Railway, who was captivated by the beauty of Kanchenjunga. This zigzag railway, linking Siligur in North Bengal with Darjeeling is described as a marvel of miniature rail engineering, hugging the beautiful streams and tea plantations on the way to Sukana. The ascent begins here and by the time it reaches Chunbhati it has climbed 672.9 metres. This miniature train travels up more than 1,463 metres to Kurseong. It passes Tung Chulinkpur and Jorebunglow, arriving at Ghoom, which at 2,257065 metres above sea level is Asia’s highest railway station. The destination of Darjeeling is six kilometers downhill from there. Darjeeling is a picture perfect hill station covered with coniferous trees. It offers some of the best views of Kanchenjunga from the Tiger Hill.
Time, seemingly, stands still in this journey which is packed with some of the best in the tourism map of India. From Delhi the train moves to picturesque Alwar in Rajasthan and then to the Sariska Tiger Reserve with a jeep safari in the sanctuary. The overnight stay is at the Heritage Hotel Sariska Palace.
MAHARAJA EXPRESS TRAIN Started a year ago, this train, as its name suggests, is a journey in time to capture the extravagance of the past and the true essence of the land. It has 23 coaches with five deluxe carriages, six junior suite carriages, two suite carriages and one presidential suite.
FACILITIES Packed with all the majestic comforts synonymous with luxury, the Maharaja Express is a sure winner. It is decked with two restaurants that can serve 42 guests at a time, the Maharaja Bar, the Maharaja Lounge, etc.
ITINERARY The journey encompasses Rajasthan, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal through its fours luxury tour offerings – Royal India, Princely India, Celestial India and Classical India.■
ITINERARY The focus is on showcasing heritage and culture of the neighbouring states of Maharashtra and Goa, with visits to forts, museums, historical sites and the quintessential beaches of Goa. The journey has stopovers at Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Goa, Pune, Aurangabad
and Nashik, with a trip to the beautiful village of Tarkarli, Ajanta and Ellora caves and Bibi ka Maqbara.
FAIRY QUEEN TRAIN This is the oldest running vintage steam locomotive in the world, having made
SEPTEMBER R 2011 25
ENTERPRISE
FASHION PLUS
Edina Hartnell tells us why The Pink Leaf + Plus is a unique concept…
day, we have body issues and the kind of clothes available to us does not really add to our self-esteem.
HERE’S HOW I SET IT UP… Ninety-nine per cent of the setting-up process was dedicated to research and I still do it. You know there is a need; you have to find something that is affordable, the right cut, the designs and also the way it fits and stretches. I do a lot of research online and then order accordingly. I travel to the US once a year to source new brands and designs.
FACING HURDLES, OBSTACLES AND DIFFICULTIES…
Let me tell you that it’s very difficult to source suppliers of plus-size jeans as they are always almost sold out. As for setting up the boutique, I did have to go through a lot of formalities, but they were normal, what one has to go through while setting up any business here. After four months, I can say business is satisfactory. Most of it has happened through word-of-mouth and as we all know, the first year is the makeor-break year, and I have to ‘stick it out’.
TODAY I AM GRATEFUL FOR…
My family for teaching me that not everyone is the same. How boring would it be if it were! I am grateful to my husband for the support, push and advice. He is my ‘man on the ground’ and probably the biggest help when it comes to my business.
THEY SAY BUSINESS IS A GAMBLE, I SAY...
B
e a ‘plus-size’ woman and be proud of what you wear, is the concept behind The Pink Leaf + Plus, a small but fashionable boutique started by Edina Hartnell. Tucked away in a corner of Seeb, it provides clothes in ‘larger’ sizes that are comfortable and very trendy. Rekha Baala speaks to Edina on her small ‘big’ venture…
THE INSPIRATION BEHIND MY VENTURE IS… I am not exactly a petite size and when I left the US to settle in Bahrain, I had problems finding clothes that suited my size and taste. The clothes I found were either too large or expensive – we’d go
26 SEPTEMBER 2011
shopping but not find anything. And that’s from where, the idea of a boutique for plussize women, Pink Leaf + Plus was born. The greatest inspiration for this venture has been my husband who told me, “If there is a need, fill it. If you have an issue, solve it.”
THIS IS MY CALLING BECAUSE…
I feel comfortable doing it. This is something I am used to – trying to find clothes for myself all the time. I had a customer come in who bought her first pair of jeans from my shop. She was so ecstatic. We plus-sized women, I feel have been battered around; the markets are not for us and even the fashion magazines care less. At the end of the
Life is also a gamble, so is marriage, driving and just about everything else. You have to really decide if the gamble is worth it. Ask yourself – have you learned anything, gained something, have you pleased atleast one person? Even if I don’t do anything and have to close shop, the memory of that woman ecstatic at finding a pair of jeans would have made it worthwhile. And I would like to do that for more women.
GO AFTER YOUR DREAM BECAUSE…
For me if you are not dreaming, you are not living. If you are not focusing on where you are going, on what you want to do; like building a house, going to university or deciding what profession to take up, you are not really living your life. It’s very important as far as your inspirations and aspirations are concerned. ■ For more information,contact Edina on 97064608
PROFILE
THE
RIGHT MOVES
Nada Maqbool Sulaiman tells Rekha Baala how the shift from finance to a marketing position in her family business has changed both life and career dimensions…
S
he is effervescent, bubbly and energetic… Meeting Nada Maqbool Sulaiman, the marketing manager and director of salmanstores is a real delight. She’s warm, friendly, and open-minded and at once, you realise, that she’s perfect in her new role and career… a complete people’s person. Nada opted for a massive career change when she moved from the banking sector to her family-owned business. After completing her Masters in Financial Services from Glasgow, UK, she came back to Oman and joined the National Bank of Oman (NBO) where she worked as a financial analyst before she decided to make the ‘big’ move.
FINANCE AND MARKETING MAY BE TWO DIFFERENT STREAMS, BUT NADA HAS TAKEN TO HER NEW CAREER VERY WELL. BUT WHAT ACTUALLY PROMPTED THE MOVE? “I wanted a change. It was not that I was unhappy in my previous job but I thought the place to be was in the family business and hence I made the decision to jump
28 SEPTEMBER 2011
into a totally different line,” she explains. Nada admits that the beginning was not very easy. “It was a different environment. Marketing entails meeting and interacting with people; with clients and suppliers whereas at the bank, I was never in touch with customers directly. Here, I handle the marketing aspect of most of the group companies and am responsible for some part of finance as well. Then, there’s the constant interaction with media for advertising, promotions, etc. There were so many new things I had to learn… and I can say that I’m still learning,” she says. “Also at the bank, there was always someone to tell you what to do, set an agenda and follow a routine. Here, you have to find out what you want to do… it’s my company and I have to learn on my own.” The young go-getter also adds that being part of the family business also means that people expect more in terms of what you can do and how well you can do it. “Everyone used to tell me that now I’ve joined the family business, I’d be more relaxed and have time for myself. But
that’s not the case at all. You cannot come and go as you want; you are responsible for a whole lot of things and I think you need to work harder to prove your worth.”
WHAT ARE THE CHANGES SHE HAS BROUGHT ABOUT AFTER SHE TOOK OVER RESPONSIBILITIES IN MARKETING AT SALMANSTORES? “It’s been two years since I joined salmanstores. I have attempted to bring in a few changes; some new ideas like the salmanstores advantage card and changing the advertisement concepts. I plan to do more but am not in a rush; I want to do things slowly and steadily, take up things one at a time.” Her greatest inspirations on her journey have been her father and her husband who have always encouraged her to have a career of her own. Her cousin who is the CEO of the company is also a strong support to her. This, she says makes it easy to strike the perfect work-life balance. “I have a four-year-old son, and I do get enough time to spend with him after I finish work.”
“EVERYONE WANTS TO BE SUCCESSFUL… BUT FOR THAT YOU NEED A GOAL AND A PLAN. YOU MAY HAVE PEOPLE TRYING TO PULL YOU DOWN OR BE NEGATIVE, BUT DON’T LET THAT DETER YOU. WORK HARD AND THE FRUITS WILL DEFINITELY FOLLOW.”
Does she feel proud that Omani women are following their dreams and excelling as career women? “I feel that women today are able to do what they want to do because they are more educated and have the drive to fulfill their ambitions. It’s not only nice to see women excelling in their careers or as entrepreneurs but also turning their creative hobbies into fulfilling home businesses like making cupcakes, sweets and clothes,” she avers. Nada believes that success does not come easy. “Everyone wants to be successful… but for that you need a goal and a plan. You may have people trying to pull you down or be negative, but don’t let that deter you. Work hard and the fruits will definitely follow.” What about her future plans? “I want to grow within the company and be more involved in its affairs,” she says. As someone rightly said, “Success is also about the right attitude.” And Nada, surely has loads of it! Here’s wishing her the very best! ■
SEPTEMBER 2011 29
GO TECH
THE RIGHT SHOT Want to capture ‘picture perfect’ family photos? Here are a few tips from Canon to help ‘focus’ better…
30 SEPTEMBER 30 R
W
ith point-and-shoot cameras as very much available in the ‘affordable’ category, photography is becoming everyone’s game nowadays. No occasion need to be missed, because there is alwayss a camera handy to take shots for posterity. Whether it’s your kid’s first day at school, a day out with family or a barbeque on the beach, capturing those family moments (and later uploading them on social networking sites for all to see!) has become a must for many mums.
back ck kgr grou ound which will detract attention background from the focus of the image. A good use of the background can really highlight the sense of occasion and capture the true atmosphere.
Whether you’re a happy snapper, the creative kind or a newbie photographer, you can get those perfect shots… All it takes is a little learning… and a lot of practice.
Do not be afraid to move around with your children in order to get the best snap. A camera with the optical image stabiliser captures shots four times slower to prevent those blurry takes of your lively children.
Let these easy-to-follow point and shoot tips from Canon help you along the way… Happy clicking!
CHOOSING THE RIGHT CAMERA Lightweight and easy to use digital cameras are the easiest way to keep up with the fast pace of your children. Choosing the perfect camera for your needs is half the battle won and a versatile camera which has optical zoom and full HD movie features will allow you to take great images and videos anywhere.
CAMERA MODE It’s your child’s birthday party and naturally you want to capture every moment, but with all the activity it can be difficult taking the right pic. Setting your camera to ‘smart auto’ mode will automatically detect each different shot. This gives you one less thing to worry about as your camera will take care of all the work by capturing beautiful images.
SET THE SCENE Make the best use of the surrounding location to add depth to your photo but avoid any unnecessary clutter in the
YOUR POSITION
BRIGHTEN THE MOMENT Lighting is one of the leading elements in capturing the perfect picture. A simple tip of always keeping your flash set to automatic will ensure each photo captures the real atmosphere of the moment regardless of high or low lighting.
COLOUR To brighten up any photo, experiment with the use of colour in the background, clothing and props. Bold colours leave an overall warm impression giving any photo a distinctive edge.
PROPS Be creative with your use of props to ensure variety in every photo. Books, toys and games can turn a dull photo into a memorable pic. But remember, less is more when using a prop so keep it simple to achieve a happy family snap! Putting these simple tips into practice will help you take exceptional photos of all those cheeky child moments which mean the most to you. You will then have a family photo album that you can really be proud of! ■
SEPTEMBER 2011 31
CAREER
Women
who have
succeeded
I AM… Sonia Badour, Division Head - Advertising & Publicity at Oman Arab Bank S.A.O.G. MY ROLE… is to coordinate with the local media for all bank advertisement campaigns, as well for the PRs. I STUDIED... in Lebanon, my elementary and secondary education was at Nazareth School and after that I continued my studies at the Lebanese University where I studied Sociology and graduated with a Masters degree in the subject.
and their
HOW I STARTED OUT... I always wanted to work in the media. When I first came to Oman, I started out with Al Roya Publishing, where we started the Al Roya Magazine. Later, I moved to Sabco Media as marketing manager and then to my current position at Oman Arab Bank.
strategies…
MY MENTOR WAS... My mother, my source of love, care and strength. I also learnt a lot from my sister Flavia who taught me to be strong, concentrate on my work, achieve my goals and be successful and never to give up.
success
WORDS OF INSPIRATION I WILL NEVER FORGET... There are many but what has left a deep impression in my mind is the one by Mother Teresa, “In this life, we can’t do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” This is absolutely true as love can indeed cause miracles to happen. THE OBSTACLES I FACED... Every day brings its obstacles, but I can proudly say that when I want to do something, no challenge can defeat me. THE GLASS CEILING TO ME IS... The sky; I am a very ambitious person and I don’t think that any ambitious person can live with a glass ceiling. SUCCESS TO ME MEANS... a permanent challenge where life and success cannot be separated. WORDS OF ADVICE... It pays to be positive and optimistic always.
32 SEPTEMBER 2011
LESSONS OF LIFE
WELLBEING
It’s
only been a few years that I have been able to think of school without a shudder running through me. My memories of school didn’t bring about any sense of joy within me. For me it was a long, never-ending nightmare that I thought I would never wake up from. But happily there was a turning point when I could go in for higher studies and since then thoroughly enjoyed my fairly long
34 SEPTEMBER 2011
academic stint. That’s when I realised that it was also possible to have every child enjoy the whole formal schooling process. The first and largest onus falls on the shoulders of parents. Every parent believes or would like to believe that their child is the best and deserves the best. While in essence, it is a wonderful and most times a beneficial sentiment, it houses
many a hidden danger. Parental affection is frighteningly powerful. There is nothing a parent will not do keep her or his cub happy, content and safe. This intense emotion does not enable a parent to distance himself or herself from a situation and assess it with the objectivity it needs. Consequently, instead of empowering the child with a strong sense of values and responsibility, inherent weaknesses in the child
CHILDREN HAVE ONLY ONE NEST THEY CAN COME BACK TO AND THAT IS THEIR PARENTS. IT IS IN THE PROTECTIVE SPACE OF THEIR PARENTS THAT THE CHILDREN ARE ABLE TO DROP THEIR TROUBLES AND REPOSE children under pressure, it’s the expectations of the parents, which more often than not, that will weigh heavily on them. Parents have innumerable ways of communicating their expectations, right from gross to subtle, from cajoling to conniving. Love has a tendency to come with a little tail, a condition attached to it. That condition is the living up to a parental expectation. We barely realise how frightening these conditions are and how confusing the messages children hear. Parents must separate their love and concern for their children from school and achievement. School and performance have nothing to do with parental love.
Parents must separate their love and concern for their children from school and achievement, says Dr. Prema Seshadri
are reinforced, the consequence of which is felt in the child’s adjustment in school and thereafter. It is important that parents instil the right values early on in life mainly by they themselves walking the talk. Stress and tension appear very early on in today’s children. While peers, academic mentors and achievement criteria will put
Children have only one nest they can come back to and that is their parents. It is in the protective space of their parents that the children are able to drop their troubles and repose. If this door is perceived to be closed, children will exhibit every symptom of insecurity and lack of confidence and they could well relate these states to school and academics. I remember a very senior teacher telling me in front of a class full of students that I would be a school dropout since I wasn’t as bright as my sibling. Needless to say that experience left me very handicapped for a long, long time. I know a girl, one of many siblings, who didn’t have the confidence to introduce herself only because her inability to be an academic achiever made her demanding parent taunt her in public albeit as a joke. Funny or otherwise the damage had been done. Lets just remember that we loved our child when she was conceived, when she was born, when we held her in our arms, and when we saw her take her first step. Why should that love change as she makes her way up the many steps in her life’s journey? In fact it’s even more imperative that we are there to catch her every time she comes tumbling down those steps and set
her on her feet again. That, indeed, would be genuine schooling. School and school-related work can be kept simple and stress-free if a certain amount of self-discipline is employed. It is very easy to develop the dangerous habit of procrastination. Develop the habit of attending to work as if it was meant to be finished yesterday. Avoid putting off your work. Stay away from anything that can distract you from your academics. There will be plenty of time for everything in life once you have strengthened yourself with academic discipline. Develop a hobby that will not topple your studies in the priority list. Let it be there to help you unwind and relax. Incorporate an exercise routine into your life and introduce the practice of meditation into your daily life. Meditation has the ability to enhance focus, creativity and keep your enthusiasm alive. And never forget your basic human values. That will provide a foundation which will help you stand tall at all times. And lastly, take responsibility to keep your school life enjoyable and schoolwork, productive. It will give you enormous strength and the perfect direction.■
(Dr. Prema Sheshadri is a psychologist, writer and entrepreneur)
SEPTEMBER 2011 35
EXPERIENCE
In
September 2009 I received a scholarship to study Law at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). Studying in London meant leaving my family behind; this was difficult as we are close. I was very homesick for the entire first month, hating everything about London and counting down the days to return to Muscat. However, gradually I began to grow accustomed to living on my own.
to pray five times a day. Islam here is not only our religion but it also shapes our culture. In the UK, officially a Christian country, the great majority of the population is secular with Christian ancestry. Hence, I could not say, ‘I have to pray now’ and leave my friends puzzled. I had to explain why I prayed, why I fasted, and why I wore a headscarf. In fact, a friend once asked me ‘do you wear the headscarf to protect your hair from the sun?’ I would also
WINDOW
to the WORLD
Umaima Al Wahaibi speaks of life and learning in London… It was refreshing to some extent as I had finally become self-sufficient. Independence is not as fun as people say it is. It includes doing your own laundry, cooking, cleaning and using public transport. Balancing all of this with studying law, a difficult course at a difficult institution, was a challenge. However, there were a lot of perks. I was free to do whatever I wanted and I started to realise who I was without the conditioning and sheltering of the family and society I had grown up in. Surprisingly, moving to a non-Muslim country made me more aware of my religion. In Oman we take religion for granted; it is natural for a person
36 SEPTEMBER 2011
get questions about other aspects of Islam–parts that are heavily publicised in the Western media, in particular the Islamic dress code. I explained what I could (with what I realised was a limited knowledge of my own religion) or I would resort to looking in books and asking my more devout friends. This process helped educate myself in my own religion; I feel I know more about Islam now than I did before. I was lucky to have a group of friends from high school who studied in London. They really made London feel like home. We all go to different universities around the region, but we meet up nearly every weekend. As I
started my second year I began to live in a flat with one my friends from high school. We are like sisters; we fight, wear each other’s clothes and make up; and support each other. When we miss home we cook Omani food or we light incense (bukhoor) so that the flat smells like home. One of our friends referred to our flat as ‘Little Oman’. When we miss having Arabs and Arabic culture around us we go to Edgeware Road for all the Arab products and food. Alternatively, we can also head down to Knightsbridge for our dose of the Khaleej. However, for the most part I have learnt to enjoy the unfamiliarity of London. On a hot summer day (and hot by London standards means 22 °C and not 50°C) my friends and I can take bike rides in Regents Park. If we are bored of going to the cinema we go along to watch a play in the West End. There is a huge variety of food and no shortage of halal options here. London is often dubbed the most Muslim-friendly city in Europe. I have met the most amazing and diverse people here in London, people from all walks of life. There are students that come from public schools in deprived areas as well as those who come from elitist private schools. There are incredibly hardworking Asians, and bubbly Americans; all of whom opened my eyes to a world which is wider than Oman. An earth filled with people of differing cultures, races, religions, and political views. ■
KIDS’ STUFF
Just for Kids
Start the school year with a bang with some ’smart’ products from Babyshop
SEPTEMBER 2011 37
EYE CANDY
HARVARD HOTTIE Whether you know him as ‘Captain America’ or ‘The Human Torch’ there’s no denying that Chris Evans is one good-lookin’ dude and presently the most-wanted man in tinsel town. Here’s more… 38 SEPTEMBER 2011
H
e’s managed to charm every single lady who’s watch him on-screen – as the cocky superhero, Johnny Storm (The Human Torch in Fantastic Four) or the stoic Nazi-killing wonder-man, Captain America – and off-screen, with his faint Boston accent and swoon-worthy blue eyes. Yes, we are talking about Chris Evans (and at this point, if you need to ask who he is, then we’re pretty sure you’ve been living under a rock the past few years).
Born Christopher Robert Evans (or Cevans), Chris began acting at a very young age. Seeing his sister Carly perform, Chris was bitten by the acting bug right from the first grade. His appearances in school plays won praise from his drama teacher and he soon found himself working in regional theatre. After more school plays, he moved to New York and attended the Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute. On the advice of friends, he landed an internship at a casting office and befriended a couple of the agents he regularly communicated with - one of whom later took him on as a client. The screen – not the stage – then became his focus and Chris soon began auditioning for feature films and television. After auditioning at a few places, Chris scored a role for the TV series, Opposite Sex in 2000. But it was his role as Jake Wyler in Not Another Teen Movie (2001), that finally got him the recognition that he truly deserved. That was perhaps a pivotal point in his career and he moved on to star in movies like The Perfect Score (opposite Scarlett Johansson) and Cellular (co-starring with Kim Basinger and William H. Macy). In 2005 he got his first serious shot at stardom when he landed the role of Johnny Storm in Fantastic Four. The role paid off and the whole world sat up to take notice of
“IF YOU WANT TO BE AROUND IN 10 YEARS YOU’VE GOT TO DO SOMETHING TO DIFFERENTIATE YOURSELF FROM THE PACK.” this incredibly talented – and incredibly hot – young star. From magazine covers to being voted as one of E! Television’s 101 Sexiest Celebrities, it was his time to shine. The second instalment of the Marvel remake, Fantastic 4: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007) was meted with even more success, followed by The Nanny Diaries where his portrayal as the ‘Harvard Hottie’ had his female fan following going absolutely
ga-ga. He topped that with The Losers, Push and Scott Pilgrim vs. The World among others and this year has been equally big (if not more) for the star, thanks to his gigantic summer box-office hit Captain America: The First Avenger. Not only did he show-off his superbly honed acting skills but a buff physique as well. In fact, Chris’ even given rise to a whole ‘Captain America Workout Routine’ – go figure! The transformation from ‘Harvard Hottie’ to muscle-bound super soldier wasn’t quite so easy for Chris to pull off. Says Chris, “We did two hours a day, and it was brutal. I usually like working out. Going in sucks, but walking out, you’re like, ‘I’m glad I did that!’ This was different. I’d walk out and I’d be like, ‘I need to vomit. I hate this trainer. I hate this movie. I want to go to sleep for a week.’ It was just relentless. I’ve got a fast metabolism and I lose weight very quickly, so for me to get big, it was just eat a lot.” Eating a lot sounds like a fun plan. But in reality it was a total nightmare, “Working out sucked, eating sucked more. You get to a point where you just can’t even look at another piece of chicken. You’re just so bloated, but you just have to keep consuming protein, so that was tricky.” All the pull-ups, plyometrics, circuit training and what-not really paid-off, though. Chris was looking pretty sharp in the movie (seriously, are those pecks for real?). And here’s some good news for all the ladies who just can’t seem to get enough of him. Chris’ slated to release even bigger hits including What’s Your Number?, The Avengers and Luna this year and the next. We’re also waiting around for the third installation of the Fantastic Four series. So keep your eyes peeled. Chris Evans is not done yet! ■
Evans Robert r e h p hristo 06 ame: C ns N th ir rs’ in 20 in film history B lo a • e v h e c C a ame: Stars ttest B • Nickn Sexiest getarian agazine’s ‘Ho e 0 v 0 r 1 e e m r th M • Is a fo one of People zine as one of a d g e a m m SEPTEMBER 2011 39 • Na mpire en by E s o h C •
GOOD THINGS
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44 SEPTEMBER 2011
Many roles. Many ambitions. One Spirit.
This October, get ready to celebrate excellence and honour the entrepreneurial zeal and achievements of Omani Women.
PO WERED B Y
If you have accomplished excellence in your field of work and if you have been motivating others in what you do, or are inspired by a colleague or mentor, then make sure to nominate yourself or other Omani women for one or more of the award categories. To nominate log in to:
www.applauseeventsme.com/almaraexcellenceawards For further information call Ruwayda
Al Barwani 24700896 Ext 265
C A T E G O R I E S Al Mar'a Excellence Awards for: L Entrepreneurship and Innovation L Petroleum Services L Corporate Excellence L Social Responsibility L Fine Arts L Performing Arts L Technology L Science & Industry L Health Services L Education Services L Sports L Fashion Design
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FITNESS
When it comes to crazy and ‘different’ fitness routines, no one does it better than Hollywood. Rekha Baala brings you some fitness routines that celebrities are sweating out with…
IN GOOD W
e’ve all been on one form of fitness at one time or the other, haven’t we? From the bizarre to the ridiculous, there are many fitness routines that aim at one singular goal: lose weight and yes, may we add, feel good as well. Here are some fitness routines that are all the rage, thanks to the celebrities who endorse them… Well, one look at their hot bods… and these may not be bad ideas after all…
48 SEPTEMBER 2011
MANY MOVES – XFLOWSION It blends yoga and martial arts and also throws in some dance moves. One of the hottest workouts in Hollywood, it’s a perfect combination of toning and cardio in a flowing routine. Done barefooted, it has different routines like the Dancing Chair which targets the shoulders, abs, butt and legs; The Side Step Kick that targets the hips, butt and legs; the Warrior Twist that works out the shoulders, obliques, butt and legs; and the Modified Alligator Push-up that targets the chest, arms and abs. Made famous by Sarah Chalke of Scrubs fame, it’s actually three workouts in one; so that’s triple the advantage! Get motivated to start one now!
GET ONBOARD – INDOBOARDING Cameron Diaz and Zac Effron swear by it… And it’s what we’d like to call, the fine art of balance! An Indo Board is a balance-training device that features a wooden deck on a cylindrical roller that stimulates the instability of a snowboard or a skateboard. What do you do when you go IndoBoarding? In plain and simple terms (that you and I
understand!), you balance on a board that’s placed on top of a roller. But at first, you need to master standing without wobbling. Once you’ve done that, you move onto squats, pushups and weight training. It’s a test of endurance, all with desirable results. You gain better balance, coordination, flexibility and not to speak of some amazing abs too! It’s tough, but who said getting fit and staying fit is easy?
SEPTEMBER 2011 49
FITNESS
HIGH-HEELED – THE STILETTO STRENGTH Ah! Now, you can wear your heels to the gym too! And despair over it too? Will my 5-inch heels look good or will my spikes pass muster? We’re not joking here. Stiletto Strength is a dance-inspired workout and is usually an hour-long class that begins with floor exercises to strengthen the calves, ankles and abdominal muscles, then finishes with 20 minutes of strutting, cat walking and simple dance steps in high heels. Stiletto Strength firms the right places, helps to strengthen ankles and tone calves, lift buttocks and sculpt the legs to achieve a slender silhouette to be flaunted to best effect on towering heels. Celebrities like Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan are fans of the stiletto workout… It helps them keep in shape for some great cat-walking and maybe the catfights too!
BODY AND SPIRIT YOGALOSOPHY It may be a fad, but it’s caught on… Yogalosophy (quite a tongue-twister, this) is what stick-thin former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham does to remain sticker-thin. It’s an exercise regime – a combination of yoga and astrology – and the brainchild of personal trainer Mandy Ingber. Yogalosophy incorporates yoga into other exercise programmes. A hybrid workout, it is, Mandy says, ‘about bring a mindfulness, intention setting, then using emotional energy to motivate – and putting that into motion’. It entails yoga poses with toning exercises with the poses being very simple. The DVD includes four yoga extras, which are three- to seven-minute add-ons, specifically a five-minute stretch, threeminute balance and core series and a five-minute lower body strength section, as well as a view of the sun salute, which is the cardiovascular and flow aspect to yoga. Followers of the technique perform easy-to-follow but challenging stretching routines, designed to help weight loss and increase muscle definition. This one, we must say, is certainly food for thought!
50 SEPTEMBER 2011
ON THE UPSWING – TRAPEZING Life’s a circus and so any kind of craziness sells! But this fitness routine is certainly not for those who want to clown around! Trapezing as advocated by Mischa Barton and Sadie Frost is a great alternative to a complete body workout. You’ll swivel, swoop and soar as your instructor takes you through a series of challenging moves. It’s an overall workout incorporating cardio, strength and flexibility. On work out are your abs, legs, lats, arms, glutes and some of your muscles. It combines flexibility, balance and brings in some adventure too! Are you game?
POPULAR TREND – P90X One of the most popular fitness programmes among celebrities, it is a ‘at-home workout’ system that comes with 12 DVDs and a three-month diet plan. The programme consists of three different phases to prevent plateauing. It includes a variety of fat-burning and muscle-building exercises as well as plyometrics, kenpo, yoga, core training and stretching. It requires users to work out for six days a week, resting only for a day. The end results? It helps burn fat, build muscle and increase cardio fitness in general. Celebrities who use it include Pink, Taylor Lautner, Sheryl Crow, Demi Moore and Ewan McGregor. Though the regime is hard, the results are quick… And that’s what you want, don’t you? ■
SEPTEMBER 2011 51
HEALTH PLUS
Have all your gynaecological queries answered by Dr. Smita Lulla — MBBS, M.D, D.G.O. (Gold Medallist), Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Qurum Clinic, Muscat. The veteran doctor has had advanced training in the UK in Obstetric & Gynaecological Ultra-sonography & Infertility.
YOUR HEALTH Q. I am 42 years old and I’ve been having inter-menstrual bleeding for about a year now. I had a smear test, hysteroscopy and histology which turned out to be normal. I also had an endometrial biopsy and it came out normal but the doctor told me that I have a large cervical etropion.... The doctors have burned the etropion but another one has occurred in the cervix and is worried that this abnormality might lead to cancer. I am also in pain when I lift heavy things or when I walk for twenty minutes and the bleeding increases. Please advise. A. Sorry to hear about your problems. Did you do a Pap smear or a ‘smear’ for infection? You require both, repeat the Pap smear if it was done more than six months ago. This would rule out cancer of the cervix. Also, have a vaginal and cervical culture and sensitivity test done to determine the type of infection you have and take appropriate antibiotics if required. If all these reports are normal, you can try cryosurgery of the cervix which sometimes gives better results than the burning. Also, you require to do an ultrasound to determine whether you have an ovarian cyst or fibroid which is giving you the pain and bleeding.
Q. Six months back, I felt a painful lump like projection on my upper thigh (groin area). I feared it was cancer. Then it reduced a little and took a shape of a small red projection (like a flesh of skin) giving off pus and blood at times. It’s really painful and I can’t even walk… I have tried applying Ichthammol, Fucidin, Vitamin E oil, turmeric, garlic, etc but still it’s not going. Now I see another one. I’m really worried and do not wish to tell anybody or go to a doctor. Please suggest what I should do. A. You may require oral antibiotics. So, see a dermatologist or a gynecologist, who can determine what medicine you would require. Q. I am 29 years old and got married two years ago. I am trying to get pregnant for the past one-and-a-half years but not getting any positive results. I was also diagnosed with a hyperthyroid condition but it is all under control now. My HSG test and all other tests are normal. This time I am taking Clomifene (Fertyl 50mg) and hope it will bring me positive results. My husband’s test results are normal. A. First of all- relax! Mental stress would also reduce your chances
of conception. I’d like to know more about your husband’s tests. Are you ovulating with Clomiphene? I presume you are doing ultrasound monitoring to determine the time of ovulation and therefore your fertile period. Let me know these, so I can advise you further. Q. I had two miscarriages in two years, one in one month seven days and another in one month and 11 days. My ultrasound report, torch test reports were normal but my TSH level was 9.62. The doctor cannot find any reasons of my miscarriages. My husband’s semen reports are normal and the doctor put me on Thyrox-75 medicine. Now my TSH level is normal and the doctor said that I can try to conceive. What were the reasons for my miscarriages? A: Sorry to hear about your miscarriages. They may have been due to the thyroid problem. However, there are other reasons like chromosomal defects, toxoplasmosis, high blood sugar etc. Have your toxoplasmosis and blood sugar test done. Also, you can consult your doctor regarding hormonal support after ovulation, which may help in some cases.
Find more questions and answers fielded by Dr. Smita Lulla at www.omanaccess.com
52 SEPTEMBER 2011
RECOMMENDS
Where:
VLCC What:
Posture Improvement Therapy What’s it all about:
Good posture is responsible for weight loss and adds to total wellness. Posture Improvement Therapy is a combination of therapeutic body therapy, stretches, passive activity and core muscle strengthening exercises. This therapy improves or maintains flexibility, normal free range of movement capability, tones and firms the core muscles, improves and corrects posture and also helps to reduce waist circumference and central obesity.
How it works: • A combination of Body Therapy (therapeutic), physical activity (stretches) and passive activity takes care in an integral composite way the inputs required for slimming along with good postural attainment. • Body Therapy prepares the body by warming up and loosening the muscles and joints followed by stretching which further improves the flexibility and range of motion of joints thus improving daily performance. • Body Therapy and stretching together improves the blood flow to the muscle, relaxes tight, tense muscle that often accompany stress allowing them to maintain proper posture which in turn can minimise discomfort and keep generalised aches and pain at a minimum. • Stimulation at predominantly low pulse frequencies strengthens the deep-lying postural muscles in the back, thus helping to correct any postural faults. • Objective – Therapeutic Body Therapy along with stretches is a specialised programme of postural improvement.
Our Verdict: Body posture is not only important for good health as well as projecting the right personality and body image to others. This therapy is the right step to feeling good about yourself. SEPTEMBER 2011 53
BEAUTY PLUS
Whether you ingest them or use them in beautifying yourself, fruits are rich in fibre, Vitamin C, carotenoids and phytonutrients (health-building components). Here are a list of some popular fruits and why they are perfect for your skin.
GO BANANAS Did you know bananas contain Vitamins A, B, C, and E as well as potassium? They make skin soft while the antioxidants purify it. The fruit acids in bananas help slough off dead skin and energise the complexion. Mash a banana with one teaspoon of honey. Apply the facial mask to cleansed face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Leave on for 15 minutes and rinse with warm water. The banana and honey have a firming and moisturising effect on the skin.
Fruits that care for your skin in different ways…
BUT, NATURALLY! Y
ou are what you eat… wouldn’t hold greater meaning when it comes to your skin. What’s going into your body has an impact on how your skin feels and looks like. If you want to have skin that looks young, beautiful and glowing, then it’s time to go natural. Eat all those foods that not only keep you healthy but also bring that glow on your face.
54 SEPTEMBER 2011
For a nice cleanser, combine avocados and lemon to great effect. Peel three avocados and strain them. Filter the juice and add the juice of two lemons. Use the cleansing lotion after cleaning and drying your face.
SUPER STRAWBERRIES Strawberries contain salicylic acid, which helps the skin get rid of skin cells, allowing it to absorb moisture more efficiently. Strawberries also help in bleaching the skin lightly. They can soothe and treat blemishes and absorb the excess oil in the skin. Take four medium sized strawberries and mash them with a fork. Add one teaspoon of honey and mix well. Take a little bit at a time, and gently apply the mixture and rub it in a circular motion all over your face. Wet a cloth with warm water and gently wipe away the facial mask. After the face is clean, wet the opposite side of the cloth with cold water… this will close up your pores.
A FOR APPLE Apples are great conditioners and toners and are a trusted beauty aid. They are known to heal and renew skin very well. Blend one green apple. Add two tablespoons of honey and one tablespoon of yoghurt. Mix well and apply the mixture on your face. Gently massage and leave on for 20 minutes. Remove with warm water.
AWESOME AVOCADOS Welcome to Mother Nature’s natural skin moisturiser. They have healthy fats and phytonutrients that help the skin in a number of ways. The fruit contains a lot of minerals such as iron, potassium, calcium, sodium, copper, magnesium, etc. It also contains vitamins A, E, B and K.
GET PEACHY Peaches have alpha hydroxyl in them that makes them a great fruit for general skin renewal. Peaches also help in reducing wrinkles, removing dead skin and cleaning of pores. Peel a soft, ripe peach and blend with one tablespoon honey and one tablespoon oatmeal. Stir to make a thick paste. Apply to clean skin on the face and neck, staying away from the eyes.
POPULAR PAPAYA Papaya is rich in anti-oxidants and offers many restorative as well as preventive properties. It is known to have healing powers and is a great exfoliator too. If offers a rejuvenating effect and natural glow to the skin. Combine half a cup papaya pulp, half a teaspoon milk, half a teaspoon honey and half a teaspoon of rose water. Mix well. Apply this homemade face pack on your face and neck. Leave on for 15
minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water. So it’s time to get fruity. Eat some, and use some on your face for a healthy, glowing skin. Reverse the signs of ageing, and say goodbye to dull and lacklustre skin, the natural way! ■
HURRAH FOR CITRUS Lemons are the most popular home beauty ingredients. They soften rough skin, deodorise, clean and improve a dull and greasy complexion. It’s also especially beneficial for oily skin. Yes, lemons help you on the way to looking young and beautiful always! Mix lemon juice and honey to make a face mask. Apply the honey-lemon juice mix to your face and leave it on for about 10 minutes. Take it off with a damp towel and your face will look instantly brighter.
SEPTEMBER 2011 55
BEAUTY BUZZ
W
ho wouldn’t like to have healthy and good-looking skin? One that’s free of blemishes, scars and other imperfections? Well, we can all aim for perfect skin, can’t we?
Chemical peeling is a widely-used beauty treatment that helps in improving the appearance of skin by removing scars and other imperfections, says Dr. Fatma O. Ali, CEO of Emirates Medical Centre
Chemical peeling has become a most-sought after beauty treatment these days. It is a technique used to improve the appearance of the skin which is typically performed on the face, neck or hands. It is often used to treat fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth, wrinkles caused by sun damage and more.
WHAT IS CHEMICAL PEELING AND WHAT IS ITS EFFECT ON OUR SKIN… HERE’S THE LOWDOWN ON THE ENTIRE PROCESS… Why is chemical peeling done? A chemical peel is a treatment technique used to improve and smoothen the texture of the facial skin using a solution that causes the dead skin to slough and eventually peel off. It hides the scars by 70 per cent and reduces the dark spots. This technique, in some cases, helps in treating skin cracks too! How is it done? At the time of treatment, the skin is thoroughly cleansed. One or more chemical solutions are applied onto the skin using a brush or cotton. The solution is kept on the skin for a few minutes, after which it is washed off with water or alcohol to equalise the acid effect and avoid chemical reaction. During or shortly after the procedure, the patient may experience warmth or stinging sensation for a few minutes. This is controlled by a hand fan. What perceptible changes can one see on the skin? The skin’s health improves as the upper layer of the skin is removed to allow for a new layer to generate without any lesions. The deeper the peeling, the greater the outcomes, risks and pain as well. The outcome depends on a number of factors
56 SEPTEMBER 2011
BE SKIN
HAPPY such as the type of skin, the skin care level before the procedure and the experience of the therapist. Does chemical peeling fit every skin? Chemical peeling will be good for skin with scars or pigmentation. The procedure should be administered by a skilled dermatologist or beautician who can select the best treatment for each skin type. He should also inspect the patient and take her medical history into account before beginning the peeling process. How do I know the ideal type for my skin? The doctor will help you in
determining the level of peeling and the solution to be used. This depends on the type of skin, the areas that will be peeled and the prospective outcome. The doctor will explain the risks associated with each process especially those having dark skin. What are the preparations before treatment ? One to three weeks before the procedure, you should cleanse your skin at least twice a day with lotion and sun cream. In some cases you may use tretinoin acid which is used in the treatment of acne as it speeds recovery. Good preparation ensures skin protection during the procedure and speedy recovery.
LIFE, ETC
HO’OPONO HO’OPONOPONO, THE HAWAIIAN METHOD OF HEALING BRINGS YOU SERENITY AND INNER PEACE, SAYS DR. NADA AL AJMI
LIVE THE MOMENT I
n my previous article I introduced the Hawaiian Ho’oponopono method of healing and replacing toxic energies with positive loving ones, simply by repeating phrases such as ‘I love you’, ‘I am sorry’, ‘thank you’. Repeating such phrases helps to clean the programmes in your subconscious that are preventing you being at the pure state of serenity and connection with God.
(Dr Nada Al Ajmi is Assistant Professor, Sultan Qaboos University, Certified Trainer – Springboard Women’s Development and Life Coach – Aspire Training and Consultancy. You can write to her at lifealmara@umsoman.com)
However to achieve that state of serenity, it takes constant focus and it doesn’t always mean you get instant results. It is rather a process of finding inner peace. Now what’s important in this process to understand is that it goes beyond the power of intention, and it makes you connect with the real source and experience the power of inspiration.
In many self-development books you are encouraged to take control of your life, to wake up to your own powers and realise how the power of setting intentions can help you to take action and achieve results that would improve your life . The Ho’oponopono method takes you a level further where you are awakened to a bigger power than your own. Joe Vitale points out in his analysis to this method, that at this stage of awakening, you begin to realise that your intentions are your limitations. You begin to witness that with all your powers, you are still not able to control everything, and when you are awakened, you surrender to a greater power (God) and you begin to let go of all the negative energies and memories. You learn to recognise inspirations when they come to you as a result of your connection with God. You
understand that you have choice but not control of the events in life, and the best thing you can do is to be content and agree with each moment you are living. Thus you live constantly in a state of amazement and gratitude. However creative is the power of intention, it is trying to control your life based on the narrow view of the ego. Inspiration, on the other hand is receiving a message from the Divine (God) and then acting on it. The power of intention works and gets you results; the power of inspiration works and brings you miracles. The more you heal your past and what comes up in your life, the clearer you become in receiving inspiration because you are free from toxic energy. Ho’oponopono method offers one of the ways. ■ SEPTEMBER 2011 57
The questions have been long brewing
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
Capital Market Authority
It’s time now, to let the steam out.
Oman’s biggest national debate of 2011, gearing up to tackle many crucial topics that have been steaming up since the Arab Spring. > Job creation > Raising salaries > Omanisation > Oman's future Don’t miss to log in to the website to stay tuned with the event: speakers, panelists, topics and all that make Oman Debate 2011 unmissable.
Celebrating Excellence Oman’s top companies in 2010 will be honoured at this illustrious event. An ongoing endeavour to ascertain our giants are on the right track.
UMS
It’s all happening on 31 October 2011
OFFICIAL MEDIA
www.omandebate.com By invitation only
TOP DRIVE
Dynamic luxury
60 SEPTEMBER 2011
THE PORSCHE PANAMERA IS A BEFITTING STATEMENT FOR WOMEN WHO HAVE ACHIEVED SUCCESS ON THEIR OWN TERMS. A REVIEW BY MAYANK SINGH
A
s any man for his top three sk p picks and a sports car is sure to ccrop up, but in the wake of the global recession in which men saw an erosion of their net worth, luxury vehicles are finding a new audience amongst the fairer sex. The reasons stretch from the quaint – ‘It makes me free and happy and independent,’ to the assertive, ‘I am no longer a spectator but a participant.’ Moreover sport cars appeal to men and women for the same reasons – they are fast, powerful, and thrilling. First things first -- when I first learned that I would be testing the Panamera there was the usual swagger, but one was also sceptical about the prowess of a Porsche that was unlike a Porsche. What with those four doors and the sudden stress on luxury.
INITIAL REACTIONS While it took sometime to get a feel of the car, these quibbles vanished as quickly as the powertrain of this venerable brand. The Panamera - the manufacturer’s fourth model line, is a Porsche through and through, with all the expected attributes, including driving comfort and exquisite handling and steering with no body roll to speak of, all thanks to Active Suspension Management, which proffers variable ride control, and Variable Assist Power Steering, which directs the car where it’s pointed. Let’s start with the exterior first. The
Panamera is long, wide and low. It has a beautifully contoured hood as well as its face is flanked by lunging fenders. The LED headlights are placed relatively low and give it a jewelled look on an otherwise quite traditional appearance. The car also sports some very interesting wheels. We guess the most apparent thing about the car is its undeniably bulky size. The large LED taillamps are very well accented with a sloping hatch as well as a set of wide haunches. Of course, all the Porsche dynamic goodness is passed along: strong brakes, sharp steering, and move-over-pavementI’m-in-charge handling. For luxury-sedan drivers who prefer pace over highway poise, the Panamera is the perfect tool. It features a baby bottom-smooth sevenspeed PDK tranny with double-clutching capabilities. So it’s a good thing that braking is sure and on point, helped by Porsche Stability Management with ABS, and six and four-piston calipers on front and rear, respectively.
Porsche’s first foray into the luxe sedan class. The all-around saddle leather is sumptuous; front seats are powered eight ways. The instrument panel is aesthetically swank, if understated, with its chic, brushed-aluminum buttons, and most bells were easy to use. Options include heated steering wheel, 19-inch wheels, front-seat ventilation, Bluetooth interface, front and rear park assist, BOSE surround sound and XM satellite radio. The Panamera has plenty of room for four passengers, and there’s sufficient luggage space. Driver and passenger are nestled deeply between a centre console. Sports car handling, German engineering, Porsche styling and... four doors? The Panamera again has strayed beyond Porsche’s well-trodden sports car heritage to become one of the world’s best sports sedans and it deserves credit for venturing into this market. ■
NOVELTY PERSONIFIED Positioned to run with the likes of the Jaguar XJ, the Mercedes S Class and BMW’s 7 Series, the Panamera has a stop/ start system that switches off the engine when it stops re-igniting it once you hit the pedal. While it’s a little strange, at least at first, it reduces emissions and saves fuel. Inside, the Panamera has all the fit and finish befitting a million dollar ride and
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BEAUTY ZONE
STYLE FILE
The ‘sunny’ version of Angel Schlesser’s Essential is here. It represents modern sophistication, simplicity and style but this time it has an interesting twist. A focus on fun and amusement! The composition opens with fresh fruity notes of kiwi, pomegranate and mandarin. The heart contains nectarine, rose and sweet pea, while the base notes are patchouli and white musk, which enhance comfort and elegance of this vibrant fragrance.
ROUND & ROUND
Don’t waste time trying to achieve a false eyelash effect. Bourjois’ latest mascara innovation, the Volume Fast & Perfect Mascara complete with a new auto-rotating brush revolutionises make-up application with its speed. In just one brush-stroke, lashes take on a flawless false eyelash effect in 30 seconds flat. The rotation releases nonstop formula, allowing even distribution over every lash.
YOUR BEAUTY CHECKLIST… SOUL SCENT
Rasasi’s latest addictive fragrance, Roohy Tehebak exudes a combination of mandarin, orange, lily and gardenia in the top notes whilst the heart notes combine the essence of peach, pepper, labdanum and frankincense. Patchouli, sandalwood, smoky notes and amber, leave a mysterious finishing touch to the fragrance making it a perfect fragrance to use throughout the day.
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IN THE PINK
Welcome to a celebration of colour! Sephora is drawing inspiration from Club Tropicana this summer with an array of pinks in every degree of intensity, from sherbet-pink to orangedrenched passion fruit. Lips, eyes and nails explode in a sun-kissed burst of vibrancy. Pick up from four irresistibly juicy colours: a loud bubblegum shade of ‘tropical pink’, a mouth-watering shade of raspberry ‘tropical violet’, and a flamboyant hue of ‘tropical orange’.
LASH EFFECT
Get a load of the new mascara from Benefit. It curls, volumises, lifts and separates. A specially designed brush, exclusive to Benefit, reveals lashes beyond belief! Bristles at the tip give an extra ‘push’ when used vertically to lift and shape even the smallest lash. The ultra-luxe formula coats lashes for a lengthened, thick and luscious look.
SKIN DEEP
Sensitive skin needs all the pampering it deserves. Dior brings Dior Prestige, the most luxurious, complete anti-ageing skin care for sensitive skin. At the heart of Dior Prestige lies a precious secret that of the Rose Satine gifted with extraordinary powers of resistance. Equipped with remarkably efficient anti-ageing properties, the Dior Prestige range helps to intensely repair delicate and tired skin. Bursting with new youth, skin is born again, smoother, firmer and more radiant.
MIRROR EFFECT
Be a Fall Fashionista! This fall, Guerlain wants you to invent your own fashion instead of following it. Their newest collection, ‘Mirror Mirror’ for Fall 2011 is a fresh take on a classic look: a translucent, luminous complexion, intense eyes, and unforgettable lips. Interpret and transform this timeless look into your own!
KAT CALL
Singer star Katy Perry has launched her debut fragrance ‘Purrs’, a fragrance that reflects her captivating personality. The top notes are peach nectar, green bamboo, forbidden apple; the middle notes are jasmine blossom, pink freesia, and Bulgarian rose while the bottom notes break into Vanilla Orchid, White Amber, Creamy Sandalwood and Skin Musk. Truly captivating!
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CUISINE
estive flavours
Tickle your taste buds with these traditional Eid sweets from India, Egypt, Syria and Oman
Sheer Khurma 11/2 ltr milk 2 tbsp ghee or clarified butter 1 cup vermicelli 25 gm pistachios, sliced 25 gm almonds, sliced 6 dry dates, deseeded and sliced 1 tbsp raisins 1 cup sugar (or according to taste) A few strands of saffron In a pan, melt the ghee. Fry vermicelli to golden brown. Add raisins, dry dates, pistachios and almonds and sautĂŠ on low flame. Pour in the milk, add sugar and saffron and keep stirring on low flame till milk is reduced to half and it reaches a semi-thick consistency.
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Sheer Khurma is a special sweet dish made for Eid in India and Pakistan. Recipe by Rashida
Kak Al Eid 1 kg flour 2 ½ cups butter 3 big spoons sesame seeds 2 tsp baking powder 2 tbsp Egyptian spices Salt to taste 1 big spoon sugar A handful of dates Mix baking powder with sugar and add one cup of water. Take the flour in a bowl, make a hollow in the midde, add the sesame, salt, melted butter and add to flour a little by little and mix well. Allow to cool. Knead the dough add baking powder and spice and mix again and keep for one hour. Make small rounds, fill each with crushed dates and press in biscuit moulds and bake until golden brown. After removing, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top. This recipe is special to Eid-Al-Fitr in Egypt. Recipe by Umm Samah
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Halawet el Jibn The Cheese: 250 gm sliced fresh mozzarella or Akawi cheese (soaked in water for 12 hours) 2 cups semolina 2 cups sugar syrup 1 tbs rose water The custard: 2 litres milk 1 tbsp lemon juice ½ cup sugar syrup Garnish: 1/4 cup ground pistachios 1 cup sugar syrup First prepare the custard by heating the milk until it starts to boil. Next add a small spoon of lemon juice and continue to stir. Once the milk starts to split into lumps of curd, add sugar syrup and keep aside to cool. In a saucepan put the cheese and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until cheese is melted. While stirring, add the cup of sugar syrup, rose water and follow with two cups of semolina gradually. Pour the cheese mixture onto a baking sheet that is coated with sugar syrup, thin the cheese out with a marble rolling pin and then let cool completely. Cut cheese into three or four inch squares, fill with the custard mix and roll up, place on a plate and refrigerate. When ready to serve, top with ground pistachio and sugar syrup. This stuffed sweet cheese recipe is made in Syria during Eid. Recipe by Hala Hamoud
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Dates with coconut ½ kg dates ¼ cup butter ½ tsp anise ½ tsp cardamom ½ cup coconut Nuts, as desired Knead dates with hand and remove all seeds. Heat butter in a deep pan on low heat. Add dates and mix. Then add nuts, cardamom and anise. Leave a little on heat and then remove. When cool , make balls and roll in coconut. Serve with coffee. This is a popular sweet dish prepared in Oman during Eid. Recipe by Umm Khalid
Co-ordinated by: Rekha and Myssaa Photographs: Rajesh Burman and Motasim Al Balushi
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FASHION
Signature Style
FASHION DESIGNER LUBNA AL ZAKWANI ON WHY INNOVATION IS THE KEY TO HER SUCCESS…
“I have always believed that fashion was not only to make women more beautiful, but also to reassure them, give them confidence.” -— Yves Saint Laurent Lubna Al Zakwani is in the business of making women look and feel beautiful. A most sought-after fashion designer, Lubna stands out for her unique strengths; style and innovation. Hers is not the normal run-of-the-mill designs… each piece expresses a concept and tells a story. It’s no wonder then, that the young woman won the ‘Best Innovation’ award at the Layali Al Asalah competition a few years ago and thereafter, went to hone her skills at ESMOD a French university in Dubai. Lubna holds two university degrees, one in Public Relations and Psychology and the other in Fashion Design. Her heart has always been in fashion and prior to winning the coveted award; she was working with a well-known fashion company in Muscat. What’s unique about Lubna’s collections? It’s the blend that endears and scintillates; international fuses with the Eastern and Oriental to create fashion that’s not only trendy but traditional too! “Indemaj is the name of my brand. My lines are mostly on different themes. My work uses traditional Omani fabrics but the styles are different each time. The
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same applies to jewellery and accessories too! My new collection introduces the Omani kumma (men’s headgear) in a totally different form! I am keen to give a nice Omani touch in all my work and sometimes I use the lesu (Omani scarf) and other traditional fabrics in my collections. As I said, there is something new each time.” She also recollects about experience in Dubai where ‘though a multi-cultural city’, her designs were very well received. “Omani customs and traditions appeal to all types of people,” she says. What does fashion mean to her? “My vision is to highlight feminism and the female character. A woman is also known by what she wears. It reflects her character, lifestyle and thoughts. Today’s woman gives attention to detail and is always on the lookout for something different. My background in PR and psychology has helped me understand what women think and what they want. My study of fashion designing has helped me think ‘out-of-the-box’ and be creative and innovative,” she says. Lubna understand her clients’ need for exclusivity and therefore no design is duplicated, ever! Therefore, Indemaj is ideal for those who are looking for clothes that not only match their personality, but are one-of-a-kind as well! ■
An abaya with a twist... itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s draped at the hips to give a more defined look. The blue addition gives off a regal and ethereal touch
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FASHION
This figure-hugging abaya stands out mainly for the colourful belt made from traditional Arabian fabrics. The contrast is sure to make heads turn
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Superwomen also need to look super good... This chiffon-lined abaya is loosely designed according to Muscat style, tightly draped at the hips to give off a ‘slim’ effect
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FASHION
This beautiful jalabiya featuring colourful Omani fabric detailing on plain black net is reminiscent of the traditional Omani dress from Sur
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This abaya takes the Farasha cut to a whole new level, with a drape on the waist and an inside belt to give greater definition. It is embellished with embroidery inspired by Arabian architectural designs
Designs: Lubna Al Zakwani Model: Priyah Prakash Location: Maraya Muscat Photographer: Rajesh Burman Make-up: Mayyada Al Maimani Hair: Malika Co-ordinated by: Myssaa Said Al Hinai and Sushmita Sarkhel
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BLOGSPACE
& e Lif Living
nth… ry mo e v e phere m the blogs loggers fro ... i n a b Om om m the of the many blogspot.c o r f g . a blo one cess duces -a-tete with nomaniprin o r t in a te r’a Al Ma in with a te owtolivelike g h . e We b blog www r popula
We blog at …. www.howtolivelikeanomaniprincess.blogspot.com The ‘How To Live Like An Omani Princess’ blog has more than one author at times, but the majority of us write from our laptops at home whenever we can find the time or have something we really need to share with others. Former contributors also email us anything they’d really like us to blog.
Why a blog?
Most blogs begin very much like an online journal or disparate scrapbook, discovered by a very few, and shared with those one knows and trusts in an easily accessible way. As its readership grows, so does the ability to voice opinions or inform others of individual viewpoints on the world that would otherwise go neglected. It is also a great place to store images of anything that inspires one.
Purpose of blogging
The blog began with one author remembering her past life in Oman, planning a move back here, and compiling a list of anything and everything she should know about permanently integrating herself into a life beyond the usual Muscat experience. The purpose of making it all publically accessible was to help out some friends who were also planning on making a life in the Sultanate, and those from back home who were interested in her new life. As authorship was extended, and readership increased, our blog really has become a place where Omani cultural aspects are explained with an expat viewpoint in mind, and our combined anonymity and
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experiences lend themselves well to discussing social issues from within Omani and Islamic Arab society in the English language.
Blogging and women?
At least in Oman’s English blogosphere, the majority of authors I find, both Omani and expat, are female. In Arabic in the Gulf, it is the opposite. Omani men for example, who are competent in English, do not seem to feel the drive to write about what they see and do in their daily lives and of their societies. If they do, I guess they are professional journalists rather than bloggers? I’d personally love to see more Omani men blogging in English because their perspective is, as of now, only available in Arabic.
Feedback?
Feedback from the blog has been amazing, and more than we all expected. Not only have we been featured by some of our own favourite bloggers on occasion, but we’ve grown to understand that our audience tends to come to us for the blog’s three main elements. They love the eye candy of Arabic architecture, fashion, makeup, and food as much as we collectively do; they want to know more about things to see and do in the Sultanate and how to live a more informed lifestyle, integrated a bit beyond the usual expat experience and they want to know more about Omani culture, laugh and be outraged at our personal experiences - good and ugly, and discuss the social issues affecting Omanis these days without offending anyone.
Taking the experience offline…
We have been contacted with job offers occasionally, and the few professional contacts who are aware of our identities have perhaps trusted us more with creative license in the workplace since they became aware of our extended interests.
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STARGAZING
ARIES – Your life is likely to enlarge, either through a new group affiliation or people you meet. You may be invited to a party where a whole world of new and exciting events opens up to you. You may even be reunited with a good friend from your past who can open all sorts of professional doors for you. Be receptive to anyone and every one you meet.
What the
stars
TAURUS – Quite an emotional month for you, Taurus. Try to keep them in check because sometimes your intense emotions can leave you feeling confused. Write down your feelings in a journal (or blog) and reflect on it at a later time. It’ll certainly help you understand yourself better.
foretell...
GEMINI – Everyone at work expects you to take charge. The good news is that you’re perfectly comfortable doing so. Order others around and delegate tasks; you have the ability to deliver the goods. But don’t try to do everything yourself so that you can concentrate on doing a better job on fewer tasks. CANCER – This month, you may see yourself going over your finances with a fine-toothed comb. Spending is under scrutiny but towards the end of the month there will be a harmonious exchange of energy between career and money. This however, does not imply you should splurge recklessly. Spend wisely. LEO – This month is perfect for trying something new and creative. Sign up for a class and you’ll find yourself thoroughly enjoying yourself. In fact, it’ll help you de-stress and take your mind off work. By the end of the month you’ll see a marked change in yourself which will, in turn, impact those around you. VIRGO – A fabulous new cycle of good fortune begins for you now. For the next three weeks, keep a sharp eye out for opportunities in the career world. If you are in a job that you are
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dissatisfied with, this is the time to seek and find a new one. You are sure to find a job that’s in-sync with your career goals. LIBRA – If you are serious about making changes in your life, you need to start right away. Throughout the month keep in mind that time is a precious commodity. Don’t take on anything unless you are willing to throw yourself into it completely. Your energy is best spent on issues that really merit your attention, nothing else. SCORPIO – This might start off a bit slow this month. Get in some good workouts, spend some time with your family and you’ll be just exactly where you want to be. By the end of the month, good days will give way to great days.
It is also a highly favourable time to go on that holiday you’ve been planning for so long. SAGITTARIUS – You are moving into a mellower social phase but so are all your friends. Don’t think about it too much. Things will pick up soon. You see things from a much broader perspective than anyone else is used to seeing and this will be advantageous for you at the workplace. CAPRICORN – Now is the perfect time to say something you’ve been meaning to say for quite a while (be it in your love or work life). Keeping it inside is only eating away at your internal mechanisms. Stop worrying about the consequences and make the move. It’ll be better in the long run.
AQUARIUS – Think hard about what independence means to you. Financial, emotional, professional, social -independence has a lot of facets, so you’ll need to get a thorough grasp of where you stand. Keep asking the hard questions, and stay disciplined. You’ll receive answers soon enough. PISCES – You’re one of the Zodiac’s best at manifesting things. With an emphasis on your money sector, skills you thought you’d outgrown, bring in the most cash. Think about people or jobs from an earlier time in your life and you will have the financial answer to your present dilemma.
NEW
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