Rich Woman USA Magazine - Winter 2020/21 by richwomanmag

a c i r e m A

The power Of The SUIT

The psychology behind boardroom fashion

Deliciously sustainable lifestyle changes With Danna Levy Hoffman

Elements of Goof Nutrition Losing weight, naturally

Parents, Teens & Quarantine

What is it about teenagers that we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get?

Is yoga a solution for fertility? The science behind the claims

The POWER OF SISTERHOOD

Expressing yourself as a woman doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to be a tall order

Jennifer Nicole Lee The Queen of Wellness

shares her wisdom on looking and feeling amazing

Luxury Self-CARE RITUALS

At your fingertips

Luxury brands and fashion shows

The latest on

Taste, style, health, travel and culture

Accessible, Effortless, Empowering JW PEI is a Los Angeles based accessories brand founded by a husband and wife duo. The inspiration behind the brand was upon the idea that fashion should be accessible, effortless and empowering. Minimalist design in sustainable vegan materials is at the heart of the brand.

Made for Each Woman JW PEI with its modern minimalist aesthetic, puts forward and seeks to celebrate feminine beauty and strength through fun and creative fashion.

Vegan Leather + Recycled Plastic Sustainability is in JW PEI's DNA. We use high quality canvas, polyurethane, and certified fabric made from recycled plastic bottles.

Contents Regulars Editor’s Letter 15 Cover Story: Jennifer Nicole Lee 158 Wishlist Restaurants 104 Gems from the stars 238

Fashion Fashion shows at your fingertips 20 Best way to surf an overflowing wardrobe 22 The real power of style 24

Travel How powerful is your passport? 32 Vitamin SEE - The Best White Sand Beaches 36 A Spin Into Lisbon’s Royal Love Story 44 Are Trains Making a Comeback? 46

Happy Home 8 Easy steps to beat chaos during quarantine 54 Inspired by nature 58 Creating a luxury living room 60 A Christmas to remember 64

Culture Festive Lights: Was Christmas ever canceled? 72 Do's and Don'ts of a Royal Rendezvous 80 How to make the perfect cup of English tea 86

Food Release quarantine weight, don’t skip breakfast! 90 Twelve good reasons to meal prep 92 Elements of good nutrition 96 The Alba White Truffle Festival 98 Easy healthy snacks to make at home 140 Get more antioxidants into your diet 146 Eat right, keep moving. - 152

Front Cover Jennifer Nicole Lee. Photography by JOADESIGNS joadesigns.pixieset.com

Styling by delugecosmetics.com Cover design by: Darie Nani

Health & Wellness The power of luxury self-care rituals 168 Self- care tips to feel confident 170 How to boost your resilience to become a happier and more fulfilled woman 174 Parents & Quarantine: What is it about teenagers that I just don’t get? 178 9 ways to balance your sleep cycle 182 A girl’s confession 186 How to take control of your mental health 194 Is yoga a solution for fertility? 196 What does your nail polish say about your health 198

Women & Society Unlocking our full human potential 202 Living a double life: fear, shame & mental health 206 Why evolution depends on diversity 209 The Power of Sisterhood- How women express their human potential 210 100 loving ways a girl can say “Yes!” to happiness 214 I dare you to step into your feminine power 222

Destination Love Tips to survive corona love 228 Looking ahead to Valentine's Day 2021 234 Feed your Ex to a snake! 237

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6 | RICH WOMAN AMERICA MAGAZINE | Winter 2020/21

Editor’ s Letter

You could wait for a miracle or become one

oronavirus anxiety may be shaking the Dow Jones and the stocks of global retailers, but the world heads into the high season, bringing people together, from Thanksgiving into Christmas and New Year’s Eve with the promise of a fabulous Valentine Day at the end of this winter. After all, no winter survives springs. Starved by social distancing throughout the year, Holiday celebrations this year mark the beginning of a new age, where women no longer think of the table seating or who is coming to dinner. Instead, women focus on a different kind of question: Who do I become? If you are seeking a more fulfilling life, it is time to enrich your lifestyle. Find out what you need to know about yourself and re-imagine your home, your travels, your food and your wellness choices with a renewed love for life. Rich Woman America Magazine, the Winter Edition brings you fresh inspiration to become a positive force during difficult times and unveils what you need to know about your lifestyle choices. Luckily, new alliances on our e- planet made luxury go global and now every American Woman could browse the e-shelves of luxury department stores and have unlimited access to faraway places without living in the comfort of their home. With 2021 round the corner, we could only dream of a time when the travel bans are lifted and we are free to discover new places, experience destinations sitting on your wish list since before Covid-19 restrictions. Your American passport can take you to over 185 countries visa free ( page 32 ). How far can you go? Vitamin SEE is packed with the best white beaches in the world! Every single one of these destinations is calling your name! ( page 36) While re-thinking limitless possibilities, we thought of opening the door for cultural relevance, a destination that fulfills women’s desires and dreams, but we also want to inspire you, and offer you unique, exclusive content curated for the Rich Woman America Magazine’s readers.

PHOTO BY SURRACA

We are delighted to feature the Queen of Wellness, Jennifer Nicole Lee, the quintessential American success story, she has graced the front cover of 93 magazines (and still counting...). Once an overweight mom, Jennifer Nicole Lee is the ultimate fitness model, weight loss success turnaround story. She took control of her life, shedding over 80 lbs, leading her to become a best selling author of over 15 wellness books, inspiring millions of women who, just like Jennifer did, dream to live life on their own terms.( page 158) If there’s one way we could bring a sense of normality at the end of this year, it’s through self care, soul searching,

eating healthy food, and... cooking. We Included stories and features on a holistic lifestyle, health, travel, food and much more. While there are tones of foods designed for showing off on a holiday Zoom party, learning how not to skip your breakfast is a simple, soul-soothing habit that could make every day as perfect as a Christmas morning ( page 90). Was Christmas ever canceled? It took an American best selling author, to re-imagine the way America keeps the festive lights on every winter. ( page 72)

108

If you want to create a luxury living room ( page 60) and have a Christmas to remember ( page 64), you are just 8 easy steps away from beating the chaos during quarantine” ( page 54). Learn how to make the perfect cup of English tea, and find out the do’s and don’ts of a Royal Rendezvous - better be ready, just in case your love destination takes you across the pond...it happened before! ( page 80) If by February 14th 2021 you are still single, you are not alone! Official sources from the census bureau tells us that one in every four people in America is currently living in one-person households- a staggering 36 million people! Demographers from Australia, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea and most European countries consider this to be an important social and economic shift that people don’t like to talk about. In other words, it is not you, at least in 2020, we could definitely say- it’s the pandemic. What could you change in 2021? Maybe feed your Ex to the snakes?( page 237). Eat right and keep moving ( page 152). There are 15 delicious and easy healthy snacks to make at home ( page 140) unless you want to shake off the quarantine’s jet lag and finally, leave the house this winter. 87% of American celebrated Thanksgiving already and while the turkey size was down from 22 pounds last year, to 10-15 pounds this year, food sales are well in excess of 12 billion. For the most part of 2020, the American woman was deprived of the experience of eating out. If you missed celebrating a night out, we went on a treasure hunt and curated a wishlist restaurants where the star of the table, the White truffle, is served until the first week in December but significant dishes are available this winter and beyond. Check out which of these restaurants are

84 able to bring their finest food to your home this winter. We invite you to salute them for feeding the nation. ( page 104) If you want to boost your resilience, become a happier and more fulfilled woman ( page 180) or find ways to balance your sleep cycle and stay focused while in self- isolation ( page 188), go to the Health and Wellness section,which abounds in luxury self care rituals, yoga solutions ( page 196) and tips to keep your mental health in top form ( page 194). Living a double life is nothing new ( page 206) but, remember, you are not alone, there is power in sisterhood ( page 210). You may dream of changing the world but to make it happen, you have to unlock your full human potential ( page 202) and dare to step into your feminine power and put your name on real wealth ( page 222). If your secret destination is love or self love, or both, astrological insights could help you re-imagine the wonderful connection between YOU and the wisdom of the stars and planets above ( page238) We encourage every American woman to reimagine herself this winter, as challenging as it might be. Ultimately, the standards of your thinking determine the standards of your life. Now is the time to ask yourself: Who I want to become? This winter, every American woman could wait for a miracle, or become one, the expression of love and hope humanity is craving for. Happy Holidays!

Marina Nani

Fashion fades, only style remains. COCO CHANEL

LUXURY BRANDS

FASHION SHOWS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

It would be nice to choose whether to meet physically or not but if we don’t meet in persons, the experience has to be equally intense

“L

Alessandro Michele, Creative Director, Gucci

By Asiya Durrani ike many who have worked in the fashion industry for the past decades, I have quite some time before the Covid-19 pandemic, questioned the relevance of the current fashion calendar. Due to the multiplication of fashion weeks, shows, celebrity and influencers playing central stage instead of the designers creations and the inevitable budgetary costs. Saint Laurent’s decision to opt out of Paris Fashion Week started people talking and rethinking the format of shows. The Parisian house, whose past shows have included the spectacular backdrop of the Eiffel Tower, opened a sharp debate by announcing it would “not present its collections in any of the preset schedules of 2020”. This has followed with the Gucci brand, opting instead to take control of its own calendar. Saint Laurent’s move is shifting tides obviously and at stake is Paris’s status as the epicenter of fashion.

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In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Federation de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, French fashion’s governing body, has canceled Spring/Summer 2021 men’s fashion week and launched a digital alternative. The principle of the official fashion calendar is maintained, the event intended for professionals will be available to a much wider audience in this format. It will allow to showcase Paris and the creativity of the houses listed on the calendar of the Paris fashion Week with unity. Paris wants to remain the fashion capital where key, creative and leading events take place. Paris is a hub as all the big houses are located there and true business of ordering, pivoting developments and the heart of fashion beats. In Milan Camera Nazionale Della Moda Italiana announced that it will present men’s and women’s precollections during Milano Digital Fashion Week from 14 to 17 July. The digital platform will feature video content, all organized in a calendar with slots for each brand. For its part previously the British Fashion Council said that London Fashion Week will go ahead during scheduled dates 12 to 14 June, with a digital platform, and will merge its women-swear and menswear shows. Paris’s Haute Couture Fashion Week will go digital this July, translating the craftsmanship of couture to a virtual format for the first time. Videos from accredited Couture Maisons will be aired on a dedicated platform from the Federation. The videos will be accompanied by additional content and a roll out on a schedule, mimicking the flow of a physical fashion Week. The Spring/Summer 2021 presentations in September will depend on governmental measures and whether there are international flights and no second wave of the pandemic. New York, London and Milan fashion weeks in September are also still in position to go on as scheduled, however most likely in the new format, as for now. As regional organizations make difficult decisions around the future of fashion week, designers are left wondering how a unifying event could be replicated, or a new event invented, to take health and economic conditions into consideration. Houses that can afford it, either economically or creatively, can say “We can present where we want, when we want and to whom we want.” This is the direction Alessandro Michele Creative Director of Gucci has announced stating,

“It would be nice to choose whether to meet physically or not. But if we don’t meet in person, the experience has to be equally intense.” Hardly even needing to add that rules are no longer appropriate, that from now on, shows will be experimental in format. For sure, digital will be the prominent player. Several technologies involving the digital experience including Google Glass to watch a show from home, AR, VR, avatars as models and holograms are all in the pool of thought. While these technologies have been tried and applied to some extent, they haven’t fully taken off by fashion shows. Bringing the human element to the shows, with 360-degree sound, vision or new tools allowing the audience to comment on the show live. VR maybe more suitable to accessories than ready-to-wear which requires staging in movement. Also again this is extremely expensive for a 20 mins show and possible by houses that can afford as younger, smaller brands will find this an impossible cost. As the fashion world and shows are a “ necessity” in the world and a truly relevant business, we can expect rapid innovations in this short time. The challenge of the physical shows will be to very limited audiences but the relevance of physical shows remain important because of sight and feel. Fashion Houses will become broadcasters, embodying diversity of content, targeting different audiences and time of airing worldwide. Fashion shows will be smaller respecting social distancing and presentations where you can receive guests 10 by 10. Going back to shows in salons of Maisons or in the Atelier, with an ultra exclusive dimension, with this current era in mind when presented. Fashion shows are not going to die. There will be restrictions and much change for some time. Like all group entertainment, sport, theater and exhibitions social interaction will develop into new evolved presentations. About the writer: Asiya Durrani is a visionary and creative business strategist with insight for defining and directing fashion/luxury brand vision. With over 25 years experience as a globally recognized creative business developer and a solid reputation of establishing international brands, Asiya's focus on highlighting trends in order to define ‘brand direction’ gives her an unique insight into the world of fashion.

Best ways to surf an overflowing wardrobe By Tatjana Kotoric

f you are one of those ladies who are desperately looking for the perfect outfit in front of their overflowing wardrobe in the morning, you are not alone! How would you like to build up your ideal wardrobe and to put together beautiful outfits for every occasion? Here are a few tips that work a long way

Less is more How do you choose your best outfit in your everyday life to radiate joy and confidence? When you swim in a very large wardrobe, it is difficult to commit to a clear personal style; you quickly lose track of things and switch between different styling directions. This means that the desired effect of your style does not come across clearly and you are constantly tempted to make new quick purchases that you later regret or buy clothes that you don’t really need. Somehow the joy of a piece of clothing seems to be dependent on the length of time it takes to consider the purchase. With quick purchases, the joy often fades as quickly as it came. The overflowing closets are the result of the “fast fashion movement”, which seduces us every day with new bargain offers to make purchases and leads us to believe that we have to try out every fashion trend. We all know the negative consequences of fast fashion and there are several sustainable, environmentally friendly solutions to clear your closet: donation, recycling, and don’t discount selling your gently used clothes. Somebody is going to love them! To create outfits that make you feel radiant and confident, first, you have to declutter your wardrobe of dated, worn out and ill-fitting clothes. There is nothing more overwhelming than a huge closet filled with clothes you no longer want and no longer can wear. If you want to build up your signature wardrobe and enjoy what you wear every day, it is time to say good bye to your past loves. 14 | RICH WOMAN AMERICA MAGAZINE | Winter 2020/21

The art of enjoyable shopping We consume at a fast pace and are conditioned to believe that “more is more”. Take enough time to think about whether the new outfit suits you and your personal style. Is it even necessary? I often hear from my clientele: “I have a huge wardrobe and nothing to wear” It is nothing wrong with indulging in spontaneous purchases from time to time. But if you don’t want to lose a lot of money and time, try to discover the art of enjoyable shopping, An investment in well-known classics and timeless pieces of high-quality fashion always pays off- it is passed on from generation to generation. For decades they have defied all fashion trends and have retained their reputation and value. If you are enjoying thoughtful shopping despite today’s fast-paced world, Congratulations! You took a big step towards your perfect style!

How to manage your image and signature wardrobe If you want to learn about how you view the world, your relationships and your future, open your wardrobe. At a closer look, every dress and belt, every coat and pair of shoes reflect your personality and outlook on life. Take time to think about what you want to wear at the next night out or board meeting. Plan ahead, as the clothes you pick are always telling a story about who you are and where are you going. Cloths are loaded with memories, good and bad. If you start your day staring at clothes that make you feel negative, this will impact your mood for the whole day ahead. Why not choose those clothes which remind you of a good day out, or a successful day at work? Always pay attention to quality and make sure you treat your clothes with the love and care they deserve. An army of creatives worked passionately behind the scenes to create your image. Your wardrobe is our personal business card. When setting up your signature wardrobe, give careful consideration to who you are and what impression you want to convey through your appearance. Gradually build up your image, one dress at a time. Like an art collector, you look for the perfect clothing and accessories that allow you to present your personality to the outside world in the best possible light.

GERRY WEBER Scarf with fine fringes | Available at www.gerryweber.com

About the writer: The experienced stylist Tatjana Kotoric is known for dressing the men and women at the largest Swiss media company. Tatjana has developed a completely new styling concept that makes you look and feel just as good. She conveys her knowledge in a very pleasant way so you learn to build up your ideal wardrobe and to put together beautiful outfits for every occasion.

The Real Power of Style

ashion, far from being a frivolous or superficial pursuit, can have a profound effect on our day-to-day lives. The clothes we wear have the power to completely alter both our own moods and the moods of others. From the cosy, comforting pajamas we pull on after a long day, to the trusty little black dress that engenders confidence, to the expensive gym kit we wear to feel strong while we work out, our outfits speak to our inner psyches and the world around us. So what are the clothes that make us feel the most powerful, the most confident, the most fearless and the most ourselves in the workplace and how can we create and cultivate our own style?

The Changing Face of Workplace Fashion Sometimes to know where we are and where we are going, we need to look at where we’ve been. Women’s workplace attire has been a subject of controversy for many years, with employees suing their employers for discriminatory clothing policies and women’s outfits being scrutinized far more thoroughly than men’s. You only have to look at the intense media attention bestowed upon the clothing choices of female political leaders to see how much emphasis is placed upon women’s aesthetic appeal. But there is an inherent power to our clothing, a sense that we can do anything in an ensemble that makes us feel bold and full of verve.

MAX MARA Crepe wool blazer | Available at www.maxmara.com

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The Color Palette There have been many articles written on subjects as diverse as: how to find the correct color palette for your skin tone, how to match colors, how to use color, how the colors you wear affect how others see you and many, many more. But there is some truth to this hidden (in plain sight) truth. The majority of shoppers (over 85%) believe that color is the single-most important aspect when choosing a new item of clothing. Red is considered to be the ultimate choice for a daring, self-assured look, with blue being the color of confidence and yellow the color of optimism. We very often have go-to colors in our wardrobes that we know suit us but it can be an interesting activity to try on new, different hues and see how they make you feel.

Know Thyself With sustainability and slow-fashion becoming more and more ubiquitous, the idea of following trends and wearing looks hot off the catwalk has, ironically, become slightly outdated. The days when women would have to slavishly follow fashion’s latest styles are, quite possibly, over. With this brave new world comes with it multiple opportunities to create your own style, one that is unique and, most importantly, makes you feel good. In a recent article, published on The Psychology of Fashion website, Anabel Maldonado writes about the prevalence of trends and the tendency for people to fall back on them, when deciding how to cultivate their style. She advises the following: “I always discourage this line of thinking, and come strong with my fashion psychology theory, explaining that better styling can be achieved through an assessment of one’s personality traits and finding the aesthetic that best complements them.” And she’s not alone, with a piece in Psychology Today, clearly delineating between fashion and style, with style being “a reflection of your unique complexity as a human being.” For example, a beautifully-tailored, bespoke suit may make us feel powerful but we can make it our own by adding dashes of our own personality to it, like adding a necktie for a bolder look or wearing a pastel blouse with softer lines, to create a fusion of masculine and feminine elements. It depends on what you want. Fashion is the clothes we’re told to wear. Style is how we creatively develop our own self-expression through those clothes.

MAX MARA Wool and silk blazer | Available at www.maxmara.com

Slowly Does It One of the best ways to adopt this individual cultivation of style, is to embrace the idea of slow fashion, as mentioned above. Simply put, slow fashion is a reaction to the fashion industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impact on the environment. With the luxury fashion houses continually putting out new lines and high street retailers creating thousands of new products daily, the emissions from textile production account for more carbon emissions than the maritime shipping industry and international flights combined. For the individual consumer, this means buying less new clothing and, when you do, investing in long-lasting pieces that will weather the storm of passing trends. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a chance for us, as consumers, to slow down in all aspects. From genuinely thinking about what we feel really good in to then researching the brands that make good-quality clothing that fit our shape and personal style. It may be a bit of work at the outset but it can have lasting rewards.

Feeling Good Ultimately, our clothing should make us feel good, both physically, mentally and ethically. The effect of wearing the right clothes for you can be truly transformative, making us stand tall, stride out with confidence and feel totally and completely ourselves.

MAX MARA Cashmere blazer | Available at www.maxmara.com

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MAX MARA Blazer and trousers in wool twill | Available at www.maxmara.com

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Travel

How Powerful Is Your Passport? What are your Visa Free Destinations in 2021?

ith 2021 round the corner, we could only dream of a time when the travel bans are lifted and we are free to discover new places, experience destinations we visited before Covid-19 restrictions. How far can you go? Based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the latest Global Mobility Report released by The Henley Passport Index delivers an accurate insight into the possibility of moving around, confirming the countries you can visit without a visa. If you are an American Woman your passport ranked 7th in 2020 and you have a list of 185 countries to visit Visa Free.

With Hawaii on your doorstep, how far do you really need to travel?

Photo by Braden Jarvis, IG: jarvisphoto 24 | RICH WOMAN AMERICA MAGAZINE | Winter 2020/21

Where would you travel in the third decade of third millennium? Perhaps you could try a smaller country, like the Republic of Singapore, a sovereign island city-state in maritime Southeast Asia, with four official languages: English, Malay, Chinese, and Tamil; with English being the lingua franca. You could experience the beauty of multi-racialism (enshrined in the constitution) which is shaping the local lifestyle, the education and welfare system and politics.

If you are a Canadian woman, your passport ranked 9th in 2020 and there are 183 countries where you can travel visa free. But with a country as beautiful as Canada, do you really need to travel abroad? Our recent survey shows that Europe is always a great destination for women living in Canada. If missing the sun, Portugal is bordering Spain and makes a great destination on the Iberian Peninsula. Salt cod and grilled sardines are national dishes, dating all the way back to the 16th century when its location on the Atlantic Ocean has influenced many aspects of trades as a powerful maritime empire. Wondering barefoot on the Algarve’s beaches or walking the cobblestone streets in Lisbon, there is always the chance, or the danger, of falling in love with this destination and relocate. You will never know unless you try…

View from rooftop bar at Lumiares Hotel & Spa, Lisbon: www.thelumiares.com

With its winding hills and tram cars, it’s no wonder Lisbon is often referred to as the San Francisco of Europe (bridge and all!)

If you are a British Woman, your passport will take you visa free to 185 countries. Ranked 7th in 2020, after Japan, ranking 1st, for the last three years. Where would you go? An Afghan Woman could only travel visa free to 25 countries, and a Woman born in Iraq is able to travel visa free in 26 countries. Here is the one mystery I struggle to understand: why is your next destination depending on your country of origins? Was it a choice you made before being born?

The Shard, London, United Kingdom. Credit: Aaron Gilmore, aarongilmore.com

Located in Knightsbridge on the edge of Hyde Park, The Bvlgari Hotel London is both a haven of calm in the centre of the city and yet under a minuteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s walk from such landmarks as the famous Harrods department store. Since opening in 2012, Bvlgari has set new standards among the luxury hotels of the British capital. www.bulgarihotels.com

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United Kingdom

United States

Australia

Estonia

179

Panama

Macao (SAR China)

Grenada

Taiwan (Chinese Taipei)

St. Lucia

Grenadines

St. Vincent and the

Mauritius

Trinidad and Tobago

Costa Rica

Seychelles

Antigua and Barbuda

Uruguay

Vatican City

Bahamas

St. Kitts and Nevis

Mexico

Israel

Barbados

Brunei

142

144

146

148

150

151

153

154

155

156

159

160

161

166

167

168

170

171

172

174

178

Ecuador

Timor-Leste

Qatar

Kuwait

South Africa

Belize

Turkey

Albania

Georgia

Russian Federation

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Micronesia

Palau Islands

Moldova

Marshall Islands

Kiribati

North Macedonia

Montenegro

Tonga

Tuvalu

Colombia

Venezuela

Ukraine

Nicaragua

Vanuatu

Solomon Islands

Samoa

Guatemala

Serbia

Honduras

El Salvador

Peru

Paraguay

Dominica

The information provided here reflects the 2020 Henley Passport Index ranking on 13 October 2020, and in certain instances, coronavirus-related travel bans may take precedence over the visa information recorded here.

Slovenia

Latvia

Iceland

Slovakia

180

181

Lithuania

182

Hungary

Poland

183

Canada

Malta

Greece

Switzerland

Czech Republic

Norway

184

185

New Zealand

Belgium

Sweden

Portugal

Andorra

San Marino

Netherlands

Hong Kong (SAR China)

Brazil

United Arab Emirates

186

Ireland

France

Denmark

Argentina

187

Austria

Bulgaria

Croatia

Luxembourg

Romania

Monaco

Cyprus

Spain

188

Italy

Finland

South Korea

Chile

189

Germany

Malaysia

Liechtenstein

190

191

Singapore

Visa-free score

Japan

Passport

Rank

101

111

114

115

117

118

120

123

124

125

127

129

130

131

133

134

135

141

Cuba

Zimbabwe

Ghana

Philippines

Dominican Republic

Cape Verde Islands

Uganda

Azerbaijan

The Gambia

Zambia

Tunisia

Tanzania

Indonesia

Kenya

Malawi

eSwatini

Kazakhstan

China

Belarus

Lesotho

Namibia

Suriname

Saudi Arabia

Bolivia

Thailand

Oman

Bahrain

Papua New Guinea

Maldives

Botswana

Jamaica

Guyana

Fiji

Nauru

Burkina Faso

Kosovo

Angola

Jordan

Algeria

Central African Republic

Turkmenistan

Guinea-Bissau

Comoro Islands

Chad

106

105

104

103

Somalia

Vietnam

henleypassportindex.com

Afghanistan

Iraq

Syria

Pakistan

Yemen

Palestinian Territory

Niger

Bhutan

Nepal

Mali

Cambodia

102

North Korea 101

Togo

Libya

Sudan 100

Madagascar

Lebanon

55 Guinea

Equatorial Guinea

Iran

Bangladesh Senegal

Eritrea

Congo (Dem. Rep.)

South Sudan

Sri Lanka 98

Uzbekistan

Ethiopia

Nigeria 95

Myanmar

Djibouti

Gabon

Cote dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ivoire

Tajikistan

India

Mauritania

Rwanda

Congo (Rep.)

Sao Tome and Principe

Liberia 92

Mozambique

Haiti

Mongolia

Cameroon

Benin

Laos 91

Egypt

Burundi

Sierra Leone

Kyrgyzstan

Armenia

Morocco

The Henley Passport Index: Q4 2020 Global Ranking

Vitamin SEE The Best White Sand Beaches in the World

hen the cold weather gets the best of you, what could possibly prevent you from dreaming of a white sand beach and your next exotic destination? Must be a paradise kissed by the sun after your own heart, somewhere! Imagine yourself strolling along the white shores of sand and gathering loving memories. Where would you go? Until the travel ban is lifted we give you the Vitamin SEE, packed with the best white beaches in the world! Every single one of these destinations is calling your name!

Credit: Sean O. seanoulashin.com

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North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii Our editorial team had to agree that if we are announcing the best white beaches in the world, we must start with Oahu, Hawaii. The Sunset Beach and Waimea Bay are a stretch of coastal paradise, the mecca of surfing, known for big waves and professional surfing contests, snorkeling among colorful coral and fish and calm water. When back from the beach you could surf the shops, the Indie galleries, and Hawaiian plate-lunch spots filling Haleiwa town, or adventure into tropical gardens and pineapple fields.

Bora Bora, Tahiti The turquoise lagoon makes Bora Bora a superlative romantic suntrap. What could be better than being captive to this lavish natural beauty of a Polynesian island and its giant web of active break? Spoiled for choice, it will be hard to prioritize your time at the turquoise lagoon between long walks on the white sandy beach, sunbathe and swim or diving in the natural underwater park among fish and corals. Make sure you take a break before the midnight dinner on the beach. Matira Beach is an enchanting destination that can spark the magic in your life.

Credit: Julius Silver, www.foto-julius.at

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Nassau, Paradise Island, Bahamas Credit: Jared Rice, unsplash.com/@jareddrice

Words are not enough to capture the beauty of a tropical utopia, spread across 683 acres of pure euphoria. Nassau & Paradise Island are what the name tells you: paradise. While the beach calls for you to explore its serene beauty, there is a world of fine luxury in the unique culture and equally divine human heritage designed for your enjoyment. Local golf clubs, shops, hotels, restaurants could keep you mesmerized all day long just to lead you into the nightlife.

Saona Island, Dominican Republic Seriously stunning, the white beach at Saona is a paradise surpassing your imagination. The Dominican Republicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest coastal island, with a population of little more than 300 locals, Saona is part of the National Park of the East, memorable for the white sands, swaying palm trees and turquoise waters. Breathtaking sunsets, plate-crystal azure water, exotic drinks, Caribbean cuisine and bali beds are equally inviting and comforting. Luxurious Nature and fine luxury define this unique island, its delicate white sand and the forest of coconut palms which bent towards the sea, forming the perfect natural backdrop for your memories.

Credit: Kamil Kalbarczyk, instagram.com/kamilkalb

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Credit: Sean Resa Cahya, unsplash.com/@bagus_resacahya01

Bali, Indonesia Beach life doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get any better that contemplating a beautiful sunset over one of the 25 beaches in Bali. Salty hair, sun-kissed skin and a good book, are all included in your paradise. What could be better than walk along these stretches of golden sand, and retire into a beach bar or back to your five-star hotel, footsteps away from the mirage of waves.

Himandhoo, Maldives If you want to live the tropical dream, the beautiful lagoon in the W Maldives, is the right destination. Fully backed by the ocean breathtaking backdrop, its cool collection of vibrant, natural architecture is curated for perfect relaxation. Swim, snorkel or drift along and bask in the sunshine. Lounge, gaze and sigh in contentment at one of the over-water lagoon villas overlooking the breathtaking turquoise lagoon, or take a plunge from your deck.

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Escape to W Maldives, a luxury 5-star private island resort setting the stage to fuel guestsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lust for life. Imagine waking up to the sound of the waves drumming against the infinity pool, a wonderland of white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons and breathtaking reefs. www.marriott.com

Credit: Xavier Coiffic, instagram.com/xaviercoiffic

Trou Aux Beach, Mauritius the Eden Garden could very well look like this strip of white sandy beach, a 35-hectare tropical garden, a turquoise lagoon with crystal-clear waters, on the north west coast of Mauritius. An idyllic setting where any girl dreaming her perfect wedding day, would enjoy dramatic sunsets and romantic breathtaking scenery. Awarded the World’s Best Beach a decade ago, the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’ offers vibrant, spectacular landscapes, snow white sands washed away by turquoise waters. A perfect gateway!

A Spin Into Lisbon’s Royal Love Story

ove is the most powerful emotion of all times and while world history is filled with wars and controversy caused by love stories, music and art galleries host priceless masterpieces inspired by love. We went looking into Europe’s most beautiful love stories and made our first stop is 19th Century Portugal. In anticipation of King D. Pedro V’ s birthday on 15 September, we take a spin into his love story with his Queen, Stephanie Josepha Friederike Wilhelmine Antonia, and the love legacy they left behind. They got married when they were both short of a few month of their 21st birthday. Welcomed with a lavish lifestyle at her new home, Stephanie wrote back to her parents a letter saying that Portuguese understood luxury better than dignity.

Keepers of the happy memories, the gardens at the Royal Palace are inviting for long strolls and nothing could stop you imagining The Royal Prince and the love of his life, Queen D. Estefânia holding hands and sharing concerns about the future of Portugal. After his loving Queen died, only 14 month after they got married, the King honored her memory and focused on the development of his country. He became the founder of the School of Letters, getting involved in choosing it’s professors and courses himself. When Lisbon was evacuated during the pandemic, aristocracy had to leave immediately, but the Royal Prince refused to leave his subjects, and instead of seeking safe refuge, he selflessly helped the hospitals, the ill and payed tribute comforting the grieving families.

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Lisbon is still celebrating the Royal Prince and his Queen’s legacy for love, kindness and compassion. Casa do Príncipe takes its name after the Royal Prince, King D. Pedro V, and each of its 9 palatial suites and rooms refer to a meaningful part of this King’s life. Authentic frescos, 13ft height intricately stuccowork ceilings, real hardwood floors are enhanced by beautiful restoration work bringing along aristocratic grace, discretion and elegance. Right at the heart of Lisbon, Casa Do Principe is a place for love and compassion, facing the Príncipe Real Garden. Its spectacular location on the doorstep of fashionable shops and city sights, signature restaurants and historic attractions, makes Lisbon Europe’s most well-kept secret and inspires us all to imagine the next modern love story.

Are Trains Making a Comeback?

raveling on mountain railways, soaking up the picturesque English countryside or the dramatic Alpine views, it was an old dream that one day came through. As we travel by rail through the heart of the Swiss Alps on the world-famous Glacier Express, stunning scenery regales us. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re immersed in this journey into different locations of luxury brands but found it difficult to superficially browse through the rich culture and natural beauty of Switzerland; it is simply breathtaking! Time to time, we put our heads down in our laptops to add a short note to the story we are working on. Flight Data showed a 91.8% decline recorded in July 2020 followed by August air travel international passenger demand plummeting 88.3% compared to August 2019. A web search away from finding the actual price of travel, you could easily learn that there is a price to pay for travels beyond buying your return ticket. Is there a return to the way we used to travel half a year ago? Or we need to go way back in time and re-imagine our travels? Air travel is one of the fastestgrowing contributor to CO2 emissions and global warming, adding to an all time high alarming body of evidence produced by overconsumption and over- indulgence of industries like fashion or livestock, well known for the harm caused to the planet. Recent studies show unequivocally that lifestyle choices could make or brake the future of the next generation, our own children, in this is not a myth.

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Take the train to cut your CO2 emissions by up to 90%

Easy choices to cut your travel CO2 emissions at present and in the future Eurostar commissioned independent research to assess the CO2 per passenger produced by a London-Paris Eurostar journey versus a London-Paris flight and the conclusion is that taking the train to Paris instead of flying, cuts CO2 emissions per passenger by a staggering 90%. Eurostarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;tread lightlyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; initiative, recycling their own waste and collecting it off the trains, positions Eurostar at the top of sustainable travel choices. What is the difference you make when deciding to become an eco aware passenger? A return trip from London to Paris by plain is 3.5 hours (check in and boarding time not included) and adds 244 kg CO2; same trip by train is 91% less, in 2.75 hours adding only 22 Kg CO2. You could make similar environmental saving as choosing Eurostar when compared to flying, traveling with Highspeed TGVs across France, which is using electricity from the same sources and are technically similar to Eurostar. Comfortable, enjoyable and more environmentally-friendly than any flight, with infants going free and great scenery on the way, you will find it hard to travel by plane in the future.

It is no secret that Eurostar offers sustainable choice for short-haul European travel, with a journey between London and Paris resulting in 90% less carbon emissions per passenger than the equivalent flight. Eurostar is planting a tree for every service that it operates across its routes, making customers active supporters of the reforestation of woodland in Europe. A city-center to city- center journey is less time consuming and if you are a frequent traveler, a quick check-in, up to 30 minutes before departure, it is not just convenient but is adding more life to your days, giving you the chance to enjoy and plan more quality time while away. For your yearly holiday, a generous baggage allowance with no weight restrictions, free WiFi and onboard entertainment, are all great advantages that your family will enjoy.

Have lunch in London and dinner in Switzerland with a minimum of CO2 emissions Same way, you could leave London at lunchtime and have dinner in Switzerland without setting foot on a plane. Swiss scenic trains are worth considering as you can stop off at famous Swiss mountain towns, such as Interlaken and Zermatt. For your convenience here is the short list of the most scenic trains in Switzerland for your next journey: Glacier Express, Bernina Express, Jungfraujoch, Golden Pass, Grand Train Tour of Switzerland, Gornergrat Bahn, Gotthard Panorama Express, Luzern Interlaken Express and Mont Blanc Express.

Your travel reimagined: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sleepingâ&#x20AC;? Trains return with the promise of saving on CO2 emissions Looking to scale up to even more environmental friendly trains? Sleeper trains across South of France, from France to Italy or Spain, have fewer passengers per car than a high-speed trains and travel at lower speed than Eurostar, having one conventional locomotive instead of two big power-cars plus two more powered bogies in the adjacent passenger coaches. Sleeper trains make a significant saving on CO2 emissions when compared to flying but also take us back to a healthier lifestyle which could bring back the past good times. I guess, this is where our journey takes us a few steps back in time, all the way to a more glamorous age, conducted by brilliant minds who could help us reimagine travel as an unforgettable adventure.

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1. Venice Simplon-OrientExpress The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is quite simply the most famous set of carriages in the world, and on this overnight journey between London and Venice you’ll enjoy it at its elegant best. With its polished wood, sumptuous upholstery and antique fixtures, the train epitomises the glamour and elegance of the Golden Age of travel. You won’t just travel across Europe – you’ll also be transported back in time. www.belmond.com

2. Belmond Royal Scotsman Embark on a grand Highland fling on the Belmond Royal Scotsman as it travels through some of Scotland’s most dramatic heather-clad scenery. Ensconced in your mahogany-clad car, crystal decanter at hand, you’ll enjoy extraordinary meals prepared from locally-sourced game and the choice of over 50 single malt whiskies from the well-appointed bar. Combining Edwardian elegance with the comforts of a country house, the UK's only luxury sleeper train is an experience you’ll never forget. www.belmond.com

3. Golden Eagle, Russia This is an unique opportunity to experience one of the world’s greatest rail journeys in unabashed luxury – passing endless steppe and traveling alongside the world's largest freshwater lake as you indulge in the finest cuisine as a pianist tickles the ivories. Your luxury suite features en-suite bathrooms, air-con in the summer, full heat in the winter, laundry services, and an English-speaking doctor on call. Traversing eight time zones has never been more comfortable. www.goldeneagleluxurytrains.com

Home

8 Easy Steps To Beat Chaos and Enjoy Harmony In My Happy Home During Quarantine Times & Beyond By Helena Zachariassen

o we’ve all been at home with the family for weeks in a row now, so enjoying it enormously while others are going nuts. The Internet instantly got inundated with funny videos about moms getting gray hair in no time and drinking wine for breakfast. How were we, over night, to cope with working from home and at the same time becoming teachers, IT support, chefs,housekeepers, fitness instructors, nurses, coaches, mediators not to mention remembering there might also be a partner in the equation? Is there a way to truly enjoy the quarantine instead of getting on each others’ nerves every 5 minutes? I believe so. Honestly, there is no right or wrong. The simple truth is that both of these worlds and feelings are profoundly OK, even if they some days might take us by surprise and happen all at once! The most important thing is to acknowledge them and at the end of the day, accept them for what they are. Feelings. We are not our feelings. Let’s allow them to come and go. Just like the waves of the ocean. You create your own haven of harmony. I have 2 young kids, who are now 7 and 4. I love them to bits but with those two a beautiful chaos called life moved in too and hasn’t left since! However, these kids are the purest of joy gifts, and they’ve taught me more than anything that less is more, on so many levels. In the past few years I’ve decluttered our home and my life so thoroughly that I found my missing peace of the puzzle, became an entrepreneur as a KonMari Consultant & Lifestyle Coach in one go and I now support others choosing joy, organizing and creating a home they truly love by simplifying their lives too. And I absolutely love what I do.

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What does it mean to simplify? Simplifying and de-cluttering your life is like an artichoke. Little by little you peel the layers away and with time you reveal the heart of it all. The things that truly matter in life. Are you able to see beyond what you already have in life? Gratitude goes such a long way and being able to cherish, appreciate and enjoy what is already there in front of our eyes. I’ve put together an introduction to simplifying your life, with small, easy manageable steps, doable during a quarantine or after. Whenever you feel the time is right.

1. Take down the expectations, a level or two You can’t expect as much from yourself and each other as before the lockdown. You still only have 24 hours in a day and one pair of hands. Relax and take a break. You’re perfectly imperfect just as you are.

2. Presence & grounding To reduce any potential stress levels the first step for you to do is turn off your phone and decide what kind of (stay-at-home) life you really want and need right now. Sit with the thought and let the answers come to you. Your intuition will help you find the most important things for you. Invite your kids to do the same during a quiet moment. The next step is to take out everything that isn’t what you want right now. And I don’t mean physical items only. We’re talking about social media, TV, the flow of (bad) news, junk food, negative people…you name it.

3. Minimize your to-do list It’s not the end of the world if you haven’t finished your never ending to-do list or that the kids’ homework is not perfectly done every single day. Do me a favor, cut down your to-do list to only a few carefully selected items for each day. You will notice how much more feasible it feels and maybe you tick them off quicker than you’d expected? Regardless: you are still enough even if you don’t finish a single thing.

4. Gratitude and togetherness It’s really helped my family to hold regular family gratitude moments to share and truly listen to each other, even if the needs are quite basic for the small ones, they might mean the world to them! The biggest wish for the kids has mainly been about doing a small activity together, all 4 of us. It’s the little things that matter most.

5. A tidy home truly equals a tidy mind Clutter is simply anything that stands between you and your ideal lifestyle. Your home can be perfectly tidy and still filled with clutter. Or it can also be filled with things and still provide an ideal source of growth. We’re all unique and one size does not fit all of us. Simplifying is not about minimalism, the amount of belongings or how it looks. What matters is how all these things help and support you move towards your ideal lifestyle. Think about how your home and environment make you feel? If you could get from feelings of overwhelm, maybe even hopelessness to light, happy, airy and joyful…would you do it? Lead by example for your family and start with any small (or big) tidying project that support you feeling amazing in your home. Tidying is contagious, you might be surprised…

6. Be more with less Be mindful about what comes in to your home. Shop less if you can, and if you do need to shop, be aware, do some research on the origin, material of the items and working conditions. Make sure you choose well, long lasting and environmentally friendly. Reduce-Reuse-Recycle-Repurpose is a concept that works perfectly well in any household, especially when you don’t have direct access to shops right now. And honestly, the less material possessions you own the easier your home and life is to manage and maintain.

7. Tidy tips and slow living When your home gets (too) messy invite your kids and family to take responsibility of a task or area, share the tasks and be involved. Let each family member visualize their ideal home and make a list of the most important organizing goals for everyone. Make a visual list if helpful. Make sure that all things are returned to their homes after being used. As soon as people start leaving things around it will quickly get untidy. Ultimately the aim is to have less to do and to do more of what makes everyone happy!

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8. Find your inner Sisu Sisu is Finnish and has been defined as the word almost describing Finland. It has a vast amount of different meanings, from having guts to strength of will, determination and perseverance to sustaining courage. Sisu is in my Finnish DNA, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s almost magical to us. Whatever your worries may be, find your inner Sisu â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it will encourage and help you face your challenges. For more tips on home organizing, a well balanced happy home and Nordic living, head over to my blog, or follow me on Instagram. Stay healthy and happy in your homes!y

About the writer: Helena grew up in Helsinki, in the capital of Finland, as a part of a small 5% minority of the country, the Swedish speaking Finns. Since she was born her family spent all their summers out on a remote island in the archipelago in the Baltic Sea, with no electricity, running water or other commodities but the sauna. She learned to love the simple and beautiful nature life there, loving the rough island climate, picking wild blueberries for breakfast, waking up to the sounds of the sea and the sea gulls, and falling asleep with the never setting sun during the summer days of endless light. With a Masters in sociology and social psychology from the University of Helsinki, as well as a certification in life coaching, Helena is constantly seeking the magic of joy in all her endeavours. I the last 15 years she worked in different fields of the corporate world, mainly in international business consulting with a special interest in career and personal development and growth. At resent she lives in Switzerland from where she runs her own consultancy practice with the desire to inspire, support and help others living a healthy, balanced and happy life to their fullest potential. Helena Founder and Owner of My Happy Home, Certified KonMari Consultant and Lifestyle Coach

Inspired by Nature Design Accents for Your Home

rchitects and interior designers, craftsmen and engineers who create our bedroom furniture and our open plan kitchens start with the human experience in mind. New trends are inspired from finding the balance inside our homes, harnessing creativity, driving new technology and innovation, reimagining our relationship to each other, ourselves and the outdoor world. When imagining your Post-Covid home, they all understand that everything changed already, and is evident that many households and organizations have undertaken radical changes and that includes the way we live. Spending more time at home, stay-cations and interactions are conditioned by a holistic approach to all human activities. Due to the pandemic designers have already started to consider a more holistic approach to the way we live in our homes, challenging the new reality of forced social distancing and spending so much more time indoors. Not surprisingly, the latest trends are human centered and focus on the welfare of the “bubble” in each household, attending to your loved ones emotional needs and wants, mental health, physical fitness, interior designers use human-centered approaches to address how we live today. Aristotle was one of the first to advocate for “love of life”, at the early stages of biophilia, delving into the term philia (friendship), the concept of reciprocity and its benefits to all involved in seeking happiness. Pre-pandemic lifestyle involved an average of 48 weeks or almost 400 hours a year in an office space, and yes, you brought your plant and placed it on your desk. As we approach the end of 2020, the time we spend inside buildings, cars and other small spaces is increasing and with it, our desire to connect with all things in nature, redefining the way we interact with nature, seeking a deeper connection with nature. With the technological advancement, there is a growing concern for a lack of connection with the rest of nature outside our reach; re- connecting with nature has become important, and we try to re-create that connection with nature at home. We are attending any available green spaces indoors, seeking more and more an interior design revolving around nature. The number of domestic and wild animals adoption is on the rise, the up-keeping of plants and flowers in and around our homes is very fashionable and reflects our

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natural love of life and a growing desire to sustain life. Human inclination for natural beauty is easily found in our desire to reestablish a connection with nature, in the way we decorate our homes. There are clinical evidences that it helps the neuro-endocryne and immunological system, and we show more consideration for nature when we are social distancing and spending less time outdoors. A good example would be the introduction of handles inspired by nature for every room in the house, a sustainable design strategy that re-connects people with nature, brings the natural world inside our homes and, at the same time, diminishes the side effects of living indoors for longer hours or traveling less than before the pandemic. You might be surprised of how little you need to fulfill your natural need of outdoor life and the vibrancy of natural beauty. At a closer look, every handle inspired by nature is able to re- connect with a specific natural environment. Every handle is designed to strengthen indoor life, unburden our cognitive system and recognize more information from experiences we had in the past in a natural environment. Same way having plants or murals with scenes from nature in patient's room in hospitals could speed up their healing process, having handles inspired by nature in every room, could help you relax and enjoy

your time indoors.

Top Destinations for Design Inspiration In a recent survey by world renowned jewelry hardware designers, Pullcast, designers often quoted their sources of inspiration coming from some of the most wondrous destination on Earth. Their favorites included:

Douro Valley, Portugal Listed as World Heritage Site, The Douro Valley is known as the enchanted valley for its magical beauty. The Douro is a majestic wilderness, one of the oldest demarcated wine regions in the world. Wine lovers and those looking for beautiful sceneries will certainly enjoy a trip to this beautiful part of the country.

Koh Samui,Thailand Thailandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second largest island, lies in the Gulf of Thailand off the east coast of the Kra Isthmus. It's known for its palm-fringed beaches, coconut groves and dense, mountainous rain-forest, plus luxury resorts and posh spas. The landmark 12m-tall golden Big Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai Temple is located on a tiny island connected to Ko Samui by a causeway.

Glenorchy,New Zealand Just 45 minutes from Queenstown, Glenorchy is nestled on the northern shores of Lake Wakatipu & is the gateway to hiking trails and Middle-earthâ&#x201E;˘ magic. Set against a background of native beech forest and towering mountain ranges, Glenorchyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s surrounds are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Crafting a Luxury Living Room How to give your living room a gorgeous makeover

ometimes described as a sitting or lounge room, a living room ought to be comfortable, welcoming, and have a touch of luxury. Over time, it has gained more and more attention, and nowadays it is even considered by some designers as the heart of the house. Most modern living rooms serve more than one purpose and are the main area where guests stay most of the time, so it is important to have all the conditions decor-wise to make the best impact possible. LUXXU gathered some of the most beautiful living room design schemes, from a residential penthouse apartment to a modern minimalist home with a neutral color palette. These inspirations will be of great assistance for one to craft the most unique luxury living room space brimming with elegant products and sophisticated combinations.

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For a house to be successful, the objects in it must communicate with one another, respond and balance one another. Andre Putman

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LUXXU Crackle Mirror. Available at luxxu.net

Luxury Penthouse with Major Opulence Perched in the highest floors, penthouses by definition are luxurious, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes from their glass curtain walls. Usually, they match those views with stunning interior decorations, where contemporary design takes on a new life and encourages creativity with unique pieces. In this interior, the green coloration of the sofas is a great contrast with the golden accents from the McQueen chandelier. It is one of those unique pieces inspired by one of the most irreverent designers of all time, Alexander McQueen. This masterpiece is as powerful as his exhibitions, combining the best of luxury with the most exquisite handmade materials. Maintaining the opulence that penthouse living rooms bring, the sofa can truly be a focal point of the room especially when it combines beautiful design with practicality and comfort. The black leather of the Anguis Sofa reflects the refinement of its manufacture and guarantees high levels of durability and comfort while its peculiar shape ensures outstanding adaptability to any design project.

Simplicity is the Ultimate Form of Luxury When given too many choices, people tend to worry that there is something better out there than what they decided on, and that is the main reason why sometimes less is more. In this interior, LUXXU chose as a statement piece the Waterfall Suspension made of brass and crystal glass that matches perfectly with the neutral-toned furnishings, certainly a gorgeous blend between simplicity and luxury.

Everything we create, we believe in redesigning your definition of art.

LUXXUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Empire is shaping its future by setting trends with timeless pieces and refined elegance. Lighting was the start of a luxury journey stating itself as classic with a modern twist. Today, a new epoch unveils at LUXXU. Daring ambiences are an everlasting aesthetic language shared by every element. LUXXU now allows you to create those ambiences as the brand uncovers a crucial imperial complement, a Furniture Collection. Offering resembling noble materials and finishing, where customization blossoms as brand capital. Be our guest and get inspired by a distinctive collection of timeless pieces.

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BLACK IS THE NEW BLACK Is orange the new black? Not if you take into account the enticing character of the black color, as it is timeless and symbolizes elegance, wealth, and power. That is one of the main purposes of a living room besides comfort, and this luxurious interior by LUXXU assuredly transpires that feeling. The Anguis Sofa pairs beautifully with the Ocadia Armchair, where materials such as velvet and leather create a fluid and rich narrative. All shades of black merged into this meticulous design get a glimmering touch courtesy of the Shard Suspension, which brings the whole decor together.

LUXXU Shared Suspension. Available at luxxu.net

A Christmas to Remember Amalgam of elegance and winter trends

inter has come and with it, one of the most anticipated holidays. Christmas is the time to put it all on display, from the warm hues of gold, to the elegant accents of black and gray, and never losing the sight of textures with soft wools and leathers. It is the best time of the year to have the best interior design to welcome the whole family and share the warmth of a good fireplace while we wait for the present to be opened.

LUXXU compiled some curated interior design inspirations for a luxurious and delighted Christmas eve.

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The Snow White Look The soft tones of the snow-white look is beautiful although it can be hard to master even with Christmas decorations, it needs to have a perfect balance with darker shades and warm colors. With an amazing golden finish, The Waterfall Suspension gives a beautiful contrast to the lighter tones of this interior, making it the highlight. Add a lovely rug that not only keeps your feet warm, but also brings in some texture to an overall outstanding design.

Dark wood and light Leather details Black is a wonderful color, a powerful neutral that is often used in small doses, however it can be used as the main color for a room if all other shades are based on it. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also popular for leather furniture, as shown by the beautiful Charla Dining Table, it looks sleek and timeless in a luxurious living room especially when teamed with amazing gold-plated brass accents from the Babel Snooker.

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Fusion of Colors and Textures This interior is elegant and sophisticated, yet itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not teeming with color. Both the floor lamp and the suspension offer a cohesive look making the lighting the focal point. With a mixture of dark wood tones paired with soft gray leather, the complete dining set transpires a warm feeling. The perfect place to have a wonderful diner with the family while watching the snowfall.

Crystal Glass Surface The entryway is the first room that your guest stumbles upon, and the first impression is everlasting. Without a doubt the Trump Chandelier is the centerpiece in this beautiful interior, stunningly embedded into the staircase. The glass crystal reflecting the amazing checkered patterned floor that in turn contrast with the Christmas decorations in shades of green, all coming together in a fantastic design inspiration.

Culture

Festive Lights: Was Christmas ever canceled?

he thought of re-sizing this winter festive celebrations is shaping in everybodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mind. Could you be persuaded to leave the Festive Lightsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; switched off this Christmas? As we are reaching the end of this strange year, we have to admit that 2020 is ranking really low on festive celebrations. Visiting loved ones or meeting friends and peers at Christmas seems a luxury as we constantly learn that celebrations and hugs are best held on Zoom.

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Christmas awakens the strongest and most heartfelt associations. There is a tone of solemn and sacred feeling that blends with our conviviality and lifts the spirit to a state of hallowed and elevated enjoyment. WASHINGTON IRVING

Was Christmas ever canceled? For two millennia, Christmas has been celebrated on December 25 and in 2020 is a tradition for a sacred religious holiday for some but a worldwide cultural and commercial phenomenon embraced by all. Decorating your Christmas tree, switching the lights on, going to church, sharing good wishes, and cooking meals with family and friends while waiting for Santa Claus to come down on the chimney, are all part of the Christmas tradition. A quick look into the English and American national archives, shows us times in history when Christmas was canceled and how it changed the course of history. When Christmas was canceled, parties turned into riots, which led to rebellions in 1647 and 1648, and caused the Second Civil War. King Charles lost the war, put on trial and was executed. The revolution in Britain and birth of the republic of Ireland are all historic facts because the Christmas was canceled. One of the most anticipated days of the year, December 25, Christmas Day, has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1870. Christmas was not a holiday in early America, as the English separatists that arrived in America in 1620 brought along their Puritan beliefs. Boston, a stop on a major trade route with the West Indies during colonial times, outlawed Christmas celebrations for 22 years. Anyone sharing the Christmas spirit was fined 5 shillings. There were no Christmas trees in any household between 1659 and 1681. Imagine Boston with no Christmas Lights! To celebrate Christmas, you had to travel down on the East Coast, to the first settlement in the Americas, the Jamestown settlement, in the Colony of Virginia, where Christmas celebrations were in full swing.

How Washington Irving Re-Imagined Christmas With high unemployment, the early 19th century was filled with economic uncertainty, gang rioting and class conflict. The city’s first police force in response to a Christmas riot was established in 1828, by the New York city council. This is when upper classes changed the way Christmas was celebrated in America. But in 1819, best-selling author Washington Irving wrote about the celebration of Christmas in an English manor house. The Sketchbook of Geoffrey Crayon, gent., featured a squire who invited the peasants into his home for the holiday, a metaphorical contrast to the reality of the American society. This imaginary chronicle of an English Manor House was reflecting Irving’s mind, and his solution to resolve the conflict between different social status, by celebrating a peaceful Christmas regardless of wealth or social status. It is fair to say that Americans re-invented Christmas, and took it from its initial “carnival holiday” form into a peaceful family day celebrations, filled with love, fine cuisine. Every year since, Americans dwell into the magic of Christmas and switch the festive lights on without fail.

But is old, old, good old Christmas gone? NOTHING in England exercises a more delightful spell over my imagination than the lingerings of the holiday customs and rural games of former times. Of all the old festivals, however, that of Christmas awakens the strongest and most heartfelt associations. There is a tone of solemn and sacred feeling that blends with our conviviality and lifts the spirit to a state of hallowed and elevated enjoyment. The services of the Church about this season are extremely tender and inspiring. They dwell on the beautiful story of the origin of our faith and the pastoral scenes that accompanied its announcement. They gradually increase in fervor and pathos during the season of Advent, until they break forth in full jubilee on the morning that brought peace and good-will to men. I do not know a grander effect of music on the moral feelings than to hear the full choir and the pealing organ performing a Christmas anthem in a cathedral, and filling every part of the vast pile with triumphant harmony.

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There is something in the very season of the year that gives a charm to the festivity of Christmas. At other times we derive a great portion of our pleasures from the mere beauties of Nature. Our feelings sally forth and dissipate themselves over the sunny landscape, and we “live abroad and everywhere.” The song of the bird, the murmur of the stream, the breathing fragrance of spring, the soft voluptuousness of summer, the golden pomp of autumn, earth with its mantle of refreshing green, and heaven with it deep delicious blue and its cloudy magnificence,—all fill us with mute but exquisite delight, and we revel in the luxury of mere sensation. But in the depth of winter, when Nature lies despoiled of every charm and wrapped in her shroud of sheeted snow, we turn for our gratifications to moral sources. The dreariness and desolation of the landscape, the short gloomy days and darksome nights, while they circumscribe our wanderings, shut in our feelings also from rambling abroad, and make us more keenly disposed for the pleasure of the social circle. Our thoughts are more concentrated; our friendly sympathies more aroused. We feel more sensibly the charm of each other’s society, and are brought more closely together by dependence on each other for enjoyment. Heart calleth unto heart, and we draw our pleasures from the deep wells of loving-kindness which lie in the quiet recesses of our bosoms, and which, when resorted to, furnish forth the pure element of domestic felicity. The pitchy gloom without makes the heart dilate on entering the room filled with the glow and warmth of the evening fire. The ruddy blaze diffuses an artificial summer and sunshine through the room, and lights up each countenance in a kindlier welcome. Where does the honest face of hospitality expand into a broader and more cordial smile, where is the shy glance of love more sweetly eloquent, than by the winter fireside? and as the hollow blast of wintry wind rushes through the hall, claps the distant door, whistles about the casement, and rumbles down the chimney, what can be more grateful than that feeling of sober and sheltered security with which we look round upon the comfortable chamber and the scene of domestic hilarity? The English, from the great prevalence of rural habit throughout every class of society, have always been found of those festivals and holidays, which agreeably interrupt the stillness of country life, and they were, in former days, particularly observant of the religious and social rites of Christmas. It is inspiring to read even the dry details which some antiquaries have given of the quaint humors, the burlesque pageants, the complete abandonment to mirth and good-fellowship with which this festival was celebrated. It seemed to throw open every door and unlock every heart. It brought the peasant and the peer together, and blended all ranks in one warm, generous flow of joy and kindness. The old halls of castles and manor-houses resounded with the harp and the Christmas carol, and their ample boards groaned under the weight of hospitality. Even the poorest cottage welcomed the festive season with green decorations of bay and holly—the cheerful fire glanced its rays through the lattice, inviting the passengers to raise the latch and join the gossip knot huddled round the hearth beguiling the long evening with legendary jokes and oft-told Christmas tales.

How was the Christmas Dinner served? The dinner was served up in the great hall, where the squire always held his Christmas banquet. A blazing crackling fire of logs had been heaped on to warm the spacious apartment, and the flame went sparkling and wreathing up the wide-mouthed chimney. The great picture of the crusader and his white horse had been profusely decorated with greens for the occasion, and holly and ivy had likewise been wreathed round the helmet and weapons on the opposite wall, which I understood were the arms of the same warrior. I must own, by the by, I had strong doubts about the authenticity of the painting and armor as having belonged to the crusader, they certainly having the stamp of more recent days; but I was told that the painting had been so considered time out of mind; and that as to the armor, it had been found in a lumber-room and elevated to its present situation by the squire, who at once determined it to be the armor of the family hero; and as he was absolute authority on all such subjects in his own household, the matter had passed into current acceptation. A sideboard was set out just under this chivalric trophy, on which was a display of plate that might have vied (at least in variety) with Belshazzar’s parade of the vessels of the temple: “flagons, cans, cups, beakers, goblets, basins, and ewers,” the gorgeous utensils of good companionship that had gradually accumulated through many generations of jovial housekeepers. Before these stood the two Yule candles, beaming like two stars of the first magnitude; other lights were distributed in branches, and the whole array glittered like a firmament of silver. We were ushered into this banqueting scene with the sound of minstrelsy, the old harper being seated on a stool beside the fireplace and twanging, his instrument with a vast deal more power than melody. Never did Christmas board display a more goodly and gracious assemblage of countenances; those who were not handsome were at least happy, and happiness is a rare improver of your hard-favored visage. The table was literally loaded with good cheer, and presented an epitome of country abundance in this season of overflowing larders. A distinguished post was allotted to “ancient sirloin,” as mine host termed it, being, as he added, “the standard of old English hospitality, and a joint of goodly presence, and full of expectation.” There were several dishes quaintly decorated, and which had evidently something traditional in their embellishments, but about which, as I did not like to appear overcurious, I asked no questions. I could not, however, but notice a pie magnificently decorated with peacock’s feathers, in imitation of the tail of that bird, which overshadowed a considerable tract of the table. This, the squire confessed with some little hesitation, was a pheasant pie, though a peacock pie was certainly the most authentical; but there had been such a mortality among the peacocks this season that he could not prevail upon himself to have one killed.

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Royal etiquette: Do's and Don'ts of a Royal Rendezvous By Lady Renae Jayeola

hether it's afternoon tea, an elegant banquet, or a black-tie event to raise money for charity, you must follow royal protocol when you receive an exclusive invitation to rub

shoulders with royalty. Royal protocol is nothing new. It dates back to medieval times, through the understanding that their elevation and divine uplifting came from above, so they deserved to be treated with the utmost respect. Dreams came true for quite a few women around the world. They got to be a princess, enter the exciting world of High Society and Nobility status.

Princess Angela of Liechtenstein Princess Angela was born in Del Toro in Panama, a top-rated tourist destination. She met Prince Maximillian of Liechtenstein when she studied fashion design at Parsons School of Design in New York. They fell in love, and she was welcomed into the royal family. Since her marriage, Princess Angela participates in ceremonial events in the principality.

CĂŠcile IrĂ¨ne Gelabale Former Baroness of Monaco: Throughout her Marriage to Christian Louis Baron de Massy of Monaco, the fashionable beauty of Caribbean descent was Baroness Cecile de Massy. She's the Founder, and President of the charity Ladies Lunch Monaco focused on improving children and adolescents' quality of life. Upon divorce, she had to give up her title and retain her maiden name. It's always a good idea to have your own title.

Emma Clare Thynn, Marchioness of Bath A British socialite, fashion model, television personality and the first black marchioness in British History. Her father is a Nigerian oil tycoon and one of the wealthiest men in West Africa. She's married to Ceawlyn Thynn, 8th Marquess of Bath. She hosts the annual Longleat's Food & Drink Festival, which features afternoon tea, vintage cars, food stores, and live music. It's a great weekend.

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Countess Mary Von Habsburg of Austria: Countess Mary, a sudanese native, is married to Ferdinand Leopold Joseph Count von Habsburg of Austria. The royal family of von Habsburg are descendants of William the Conqueror. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sisterin-law to Archduchess LeOntra von HabsburgLothringen, an American attorney and entrepreneur. The Habsburg's are known for their interracial/intercultural marriages. Head of the Habsburg Royal Family, Dr. Otto von Habsburg declared all Habsburg marriages are "equal." Thank goodness for his open-mindedness.

Duchess Meghan Markle of Sussex The American who changed the British royal family forever. Before her fairy-tale romance, Megan Markle starred in USA Network's legal drama, Suits. She wasn't only a celebrity, but an activist and humanitarian. The two met on a blind date in the summer of 2016. In 2017. Markle quit Suits, flew to London and moved in with Prince Harry.

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Her Majesty The Queen Of all the royals in the world, the one held to the highest esteem is the Queen of the United Kingdom and 15 other Commonwealth realms. You want to make sure that you don't disrespect the queen or make any etiquette mistakes so you can be invited back. What things can one say or do in front of the queen? Don't touch her Majesty It's considered bad manners to initiate any physical contact with the reigning monarch. If her majesty extends her hand first, then proceed. But even after that any more touching isn't permissible. If the queen doesn't shake your hand, you must curtsy. If you're a US citizen, all you're obliged to do is shake her hand. No hugging. Remember, when Michelle Obama put her arm around her in a warm gesture protocol experts were not impressed. Don't refer to her by her first name While you may have your own nicknames for her, you aren't on a first-name basis as common folk. You shouldn't even think about addressing her by name. The queen should always be addressed as your majesty or ma'am. When she leaves, however, you must address her as your majesty once again. Asking personal questions If you haven't failed the queen's greeting, you may have a conversation. This rule exists so HRH can control every aspect of the conversation, including exiting it swiftly, so only speak when spoken to. While there isn't a list of forbidden or approved topics, it's best to steer away from anything private or controversial. Think carefully about what you're going to say and always be polite in your responses. Using French words When speaking with the queen, it's considered impolite to use French words. Words like toilet and perfume are french and off-limits. You can ask what perfume she's wearing, but using the word scent instead of perfume. The word pardon is also a no-no as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s considered a curse word to the Royals. Instead, say sorry. Speaking to her Majesty If you're walking with the queen, try to keep the exact same pace. Don't walk too slowly or ahead of the queen. This ensures you're always alongside her, and she can be introduced by her staff when needed. But even when you get permission, don't forget about another significant rule. You cannot turn your back on the queen. Having tea with her Majesty If you have tea with the queen, the middle finger supports the bottom while your thumb and index finger hold the handle. With coffee, you must loop your index finger through the handle. If champagne is involved, drink with caution as this might result in saying the wrong things and starting to act funny. Need to use the restroom after drinking. You can. But don't announce your intentions. Simply say, "Kindly excuse me," and leave it at that. Bring a gift: The expression never arrive empty-handed is true. Everybody likes presents, and the queen is no exception. Gifts should fit the occasion, reflect local culture, or represent the city or country you're visiting from. Use your planning time wisely. If you choose to bring wine, don't be offended. It's up to her Majesty.

Respect the dress code You mustn't ignore the dress code when attending an event that the queen will be at. First impressions are important, and it's twice as important when greeting royalty. While there's no explicit dress code, you should stick to formal wear when meeting HRH. It's rude to show up under-dressed as that denotes laziness and lack of manners, even at the least formal gatherings. Don't eat before she does No matter how tasty and tempting the food in front of you looks, you can only start eating once the queen does. Everyone at the table can bite off the first piece only after the queen has started to eat her meal. And as soon as the queen finishes, everyone else must stop eating. So have a quick snack beforehand in case any speeches go on for a long time. Don't sit down before her No matter how tired you are, you should always be standing when her majesty enters the room. You may only sit when the queen sits down. And there's a particular way to sit. Remember when the Duchess of Sussex received backlash for crossing her legs at the knees. You only cross at the ankles or slant your legs to the side, and even then, make sure the back of your heels are always on the ground. It's also important to note where you're seated. As a rule, that guest of honor sits directly to the queen's right. And it's customary for her majesty to address them first. No uninvited guests Many times, people think that there's always a plus one included. No, that's not the case. Don't show up with an uninvited guest. If you're allowed a plus one, make sure they conduct themselves appropriately. I couldn't emphasis this more. Because it's an eyesore, and it drives us crazy. Your reputation is on the line, and you're plus one is representing you. So pick someone presentable with good manners. Be punctual One of the most disrespectful things you can do is be the person who arrives after the queen. I can tell you that won't go down well. Arrive 10 minutes before or at the specified start time. But no longer than 10 minutes because that will throw out the timing for the whole evening. Then, give the queen a 10-30 minute buffer from then to arrive last. Also, don't try to sneak out from the event until the queen gives you permission to leave. There are no goodbyes until she allows you to go. No phone zone Forget about taking a selfie or getting an autograph. The Royals aren't allowed to sign autographs because of the risk of having their signatures forged. On the subject of selfies, they're forbidden with non-royals. But don't be upset because there are always photographers at events. Keep your phone stowed away in your bag on silent or switched off. What happens if you break any of these rules? While breaking the etiquette rules won't get you thrown into the Tower of London or even out in the street, you'll be embarrassed and, much worse still, probably end up all over the British tabloids. About the writer: Lady Renae Jayeola is a wealth coach, helping inheritors, celebrities and other high net-worth individuals master the inner and outer game of wealth so they can enhance their lives and achieve their goals. With over 5 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience in the world of investment banking and financial services, she brings an innovative approach to financial wellbeing applying a variety of new techniques including TIME, EFT, NLP, hypnotherapy to give you the push, and motivation you need to achieve ultimate success.

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How to make the perfect cup of English Tea

hile the perfect cup of tea is different for everyone, here is your shortcut to continue the qu i n t e s s e n t i a l l y English ritual of Afternoon Tea. In-keeping with English tradition, choose your favorite tea and remember that English Tea is a delicate flavor. After you decide on your profile blend, find a place that is dry, dark and protected from extreme temperatures to stow your tea leaves in an airtight container. Start by warming your teapot by pouring a little hot water and rinsing through after a few moments . Beneficial to a more intense flavor, it also protects your fine china of your tea service. Once the teapot is warm, pour away the water and start preparing your tea without while the pot is still hot.

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Always start by heating fresh, cold water. While it might be easier to use cooled and re-boiled water, this will result in producing flat tea. Only freshly poured water is able to bring out your blend’s individual flavor and bring the tea to life, Add a generous 2.5 grams of tea leaves to every 200ml of 158°F hot water, for white and green tea leaves. Alternatively, if you prefer brewing black and Oolong leaves, you will aim for 185°F. Herbal infusions require boiled water at a temperature of 212°F and chamomile is best suited to 194°F High end quality tea leaves require just 30 seconds – but others may need to rest in the teapot for longer. Let the tea brew before pouring. Adding milk to tea, not tea to milk, or a slice of lemon is optional Scones, shortbreads, sandwiches, light salads, a biscuit or delicate piece of cake can be the perfect company to a cup of tea It is not unusual for a luxury London hotels to serve in excess of 7000 scones and shortbread biscuits in a range of flavors from classic vanilla to caraway and lemon. To transport yourself into the perfect afternoon tea time, play soft classical music in the background.

English Breakfast Tea with Smoked Salmon & Kale Salad For Two Find a deep baking tray and a cooling rack that fits within the tray and can sit on the top of the woodchips Place the woodchips and tea leaves into the bottom of the baking tray Score the fat on the salmon Place the baking tray on a BBQ or hob and let the woodchips catch fire gently so that it starts to catch fire. Blow out the flames and place the salmon, skin side down, on the cooling rack. Cover the salmon with a layer of baking paper and then cover the tray fully with foil making sure no smoke can escape Allow the salmon to smoke for 10–15 minutes Leave the salmon to rest Toast the pine nuts on a gentle heat in a dry pan until brown, save some for the garnish Chop the hazelnuts Segment the orange and squeeze any juice into the dressing bowl Make the dressing by mixing all the ingredients together in a bowl Wash all the kyle leaves and pick the parsley Place all leaves in a bowl, mix through the nuts, orange segments and tenderstem

Ingredients:

1½ oz pine nuts (toasted)

1 x Wild Pacific Salmon Fillet

1½ oz chopped hazelnut

17 oz Wood chips for smoking

5¼ oz of tenderstem broccoli

6 x ETS English breakfast teabags

1 handful of flat leaf parsley

1½ oz watercress

6 radishes to garnish

1 orange, or blood orange if in season

For the Dressing:

1 head of chicory

1tsp sherry vinegar

2½ oz radicchio or mango

3tsp good quality olive oil

2½ oz rocket

Salt & pepper

3½ oz kale

Juice from the orange

Slice the salmon into strips and mix through the salad Dress the salad, season to taste and mix thoroughly Serve on a lovely plate and sprinkle over the pine nuts and thinly sliced radish or cubes of mango to garnish

...food

Want To Release The Quarantine Weight? Don’t Skip Breakfast! By Anna Cortezi

ny weight gain in quarantine (for some just a few pounds, for others a bit more) should not keep you worried as it can be easily lost if you just follow some day to day, simple and reasonable advice. I know it sounds cliche, but DON’T skip breakfast! Systematize your breakfast intake so that you gradually boost your metabolism and therefore your calorie burning ability, and don’t fall head over heels for the next bigger meals.

Ideas for healthy breakfasts: • Breakfast cereals, fortified with fiber (rye, barley, oats, etc.) • Wholegrain bread and 1 boiled egg with vegetables • Yogurt with honey and cereals Or fresh/dried fruit Say goodbye to the daily prolonged couch breaks that until now took hours of your time, accompanied by unhealthy delivery, take away or fresh-cooked meal choices that you made with so much mastery using mainly fat and sugar. To get back to a healthy routine, a good idea is to avoid frequent food delivery orders or even eating out once possible, no matter how much you have missed your favorite restaurants and fast food diners. Usually in these circumstances it is very easy to get away with overeating certain food combinations, going down with sugary or alcoholic drinks and desserts. Avoid high-calorie drinks and beverages that have no particular nutritional value, such as soft drinks and milk or cream based drinks that do not cause the same satiety that a solid meal can give us, but will definitely give us all the extra calories that we do not want, especially at this point. Drink plenty of water and herbal teas to get the most out of your daily fluid intake. As for alcohol, we know that it provides a lot of calories and no nutrients at all, often causing dehydration during consumption.

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Do not leave your stomach empty with no food for more than 2½ to 3 hours. Start consuming quality snacks of around 100-150 calories (fruits, nuts, yogurt, wholemeal crackers, etc) that will help balance your blood sugar levels, increase your metabolism and prevent you from feeling intensively hungry. Don’t skip dinner for that promising, faster weight loss you’ve read about – this is a myth and in no way does this theory apply when practiced. Aim for a lighter dinner that has half the energy value (calories) of your lunch and always consume it 2-3 hours prior to sleep. I will not dwell on the importance of sleep, because more or less, we all have enjoyed lots of sleeping in self isolation. However, going back to your work routine, don’t forget that good quality sleep will help you balance your hormones and of course, your weight! If you want to lose the quarantine weight fast, it is important to understand that the first 4-6 pounds may be lost in a short time after you start paying attention to your diet, but in order to continue having positive and healthy results, you should try to focus on a balanced diet that will improve your metabolism, body composition and your overall well-being in a realistic and sustainable way.

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anna.cortesi "I have chosen to be happy because it is good for my health." - Voltaire #AnnaCortesi #Dietitian #healthy #nutri‐ tion #health #lifestyle #happiness #gratit‐ ude #healthquotes #nutritionist #loveyourbody

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12 Good Reasons To Meal Prep By Danna Levy-Hoffman

ho hasn’t left work late, dreaming of a good meal but feeling energy depleted and very little desire to shop and then cook? A quick takeout meal could be the answer, even if that means turning a blind eye on the expanding waistline and calorie-laden trap that you are deliberately stepping in. Nothing stops you from imagining yourself walking through the door where waiting for you is a delicious home-cooked dinner, every day of the week! Meal prep is a great planning tool to help keep you on a healthy eating track. While there is no one master formula, planning your meals is effortless, depending on your food preferences, love for cooking and mindset, but it will help you create your own style and take deliberate control of your waistline. To truly be healthy and feel amazing in our bodies, we need to give it the nutrients it needs, in a sustainable way that doesn’t make us feel deprived. Unfortunately, we are vulnerable to living out the unhealthy habits and conditioning from our parentsthis includes what we eat, how we shop, snacking habits, food pre techniques and emotional eating tendencies. Each person ticks differently and I’m there to help you discover the path that’s right for you. There are many good reasons for Meal planning and here you could find a few tricks Disclaimer: I’m going to give heaps of advice and good tricks in this article. They will not all work for you! You have to find that happy spot where meal planning takes the edge off, rather than put more pressure on your daily life. Doing everything I advise here is too way too much. You will find what works for you, and you will use it to your benefit. Until then it’s all about trying new ways in a slow and sustainable way!

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Why meal plan? Meal planning saves you time when shopping – you don’t have to look around too much, think about what you’ll be making while checking out all the options out there. The 30 min a week it will take you to plan out the week, will be totally worth while, as you’ll be shopping once for the whole week. No more standing holding the refrigerator door, hoping a recipe will somehow jump at you. Everything will be planned, and if you do it smart, you can also make enough to rely on leftovers! Saving money AND food waist – When you go shopping with a prepared list, you’re more likely going to spend less money, as you will not be inclined to buy things that are not on the list. You can also avoid food waist as you don’t buy something you already have at home or will not be using.

Healthier Eating – You’re more inclined to eat healthier, as you base your menu plan around good healthy recipes, rather than the frozen pizza that’s on sale this week. Reduces Stress – Everything is written down and planned out. There’s no reason to stress. Not about food anyways! This is especially true if you have an online supermarket that delivers to your home and offers high quality, local organic ingredients, which means you can do your shopping in your pajamas.

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So how do we go about it?

01.

Make sure you have an organized place where you save recipes. If it’s in a hand-written recipe book, a special app, or saving your loved recipes on Pinterest, having them all in one place makes life much easier.

02.

Make sure to come up with enough recipes to have a nice rotation. Having seasonal recipes will help not get tired of making and eating the same meals over and over again.

03.

Dig through old recipes and “healthify” them to add more to your repertoire.

04.

Revolve around ingredients you already have. Check out the pantry and fridge for ingredients that should be used, and work from there.

05.

If your house is bare naked and has zero ingredients (which sometimes does happen), revolve around favorite veggies . That way you base meals around the healthiest part, and add side dishes of grains or protein.

06.

Plan around fruit and vegetables that are in season. There’s no point in planning on guacamole when avocados are overpriced, taste like Styrofoam, and had traveled half the world to get to your plate.

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07.

Know your schedule – Book specific dates and times for shopping and cooking! Mark it in your family calendar, with a permanent marker, and make sure to activate your family members to get extra hands helping.

08.

Figure out what time of day you are have more time and energy to do the planning and shopping.

09. Always make extra! If you’re already going

to spend time in the kitchen, you might as well make enough to last you a couple of days. Alternatively you can make a larger amount of just one part of the meal (either whole grains, protein, or vegetables), and reinvent the leftover as a whole new recipe. Make sure leftovers are also in the plan. There’s no need to have something new every single day.

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10.

Speaking of leftovers, make sure to have one day where you simply pull out all the leftovers for a “fridge clean” meals.

11.

Only focus on 1-2 new recipes a week. The rest should be recipes you know and love. That takes the pressure off and keeps things realistic.

12.

Use your freezer wisely! Broth, sauces, beans/legumes, prepped veggies, or whole prepped meals to simply warm up or cook are all great ways of using your freezer.

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Elements of Good Nutrition

ith the amount of information that exists about good nutrition, you would think it was a big mystery. The truth of the matter is, there is no mystery involved in getting the proper nutrients that your body needs. Why should you care about getting the proper nutrients? Many people are under the misconception that eating healthy is for the young because they are growing. Tissue and cells are constantly being renewed in both children and adults. The failure for these elements to repair themselves can result in diseases of lifelong misery or worse, death. To lower your risk of developing a disease, you simply need to follow three simple steps of good nutrition.

Proper Hydration

Plain and simple, your body needs water. Being properly hydrated will benefit you from head to toe. Water keeps your cells hydrated and flowing throughout your body. It doesn't take long to witness the benefits of drinking sufficient water. Just a week of being hydrated and your skin will have a new glow. If you need to lose weight, water can help you achieve your goal. In many instances, people misinterpret thirst for hunger. Unless it's been a few hours since you have eaten, have a glass of water the next time you have hunger pains. There are numerous guidelines for how much water to drink. Consuming eight glasses of water each day is the most popular guideline. People have different needs. A better indication of how hydrated you are is your urine. When you are properly hydrated your urine is almost clear. There is the possibility of water intoxication so you don't want your urine to be completely colorless.

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Eating Healthy In addition to being hydrated, you need to eat a variety of foods. Forget fad diets that restrict certain foods. The key to healthy eating is to eat in moderation and variety. Your food choices should include a large percentage from complex carbohydrates, which is sufficient for energy. You should also consume several servings of fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy every day. You should limit your servings of protein and fats to two or three servings each day. By including all of these food groups in your diet, you are less likely to be hungry or have cravings for sweets and other nonnutritional foods.

Vitamin Supplementation As long as you live in a country where food is plentiful and produced safely, you should have no problem obtaining the amount of vitamins and minerals your body needs. However, food allergies, dislikes, and illness may prevent you from eating certain foods. Some people, for example, are lactose intolerant and cannot consume dairy products. In these instances, supplementation should become a part of a plan for healthy nutrition. You don't need a prescription to purchase vitamins, but it is a good idea to discuss your particular needs with your medical doctor. Consuming excessive amounts of some vitamins can cause toxicity and unpleasant side effects.

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The Alba White Truffle The Star Of The Table At The ‘Unusual Dinners’ Finest Experience

here’s no doubt that there is only one way to celebrate the Alba White Truffle: at the table. This is why, the star of the table at the Unusual Dinners of this 90th edition is The Alba White Truffle, and we want to help honor it in the best way possible.

Hunting for the Alba White Truffle Culinary connoisseurs get together each year to honor the white truffle, a gastronomic treasure only available for a few months and for a high price. Top chefs value the freshness of this star of the table, as only a few grams shaved over a plate, will make your dinner a luxury experience. Being hunted from late summer thought out autumn, there are no cultivation techniques for the most wanted culinary prize: The Alba White Truffle. A truffle- hunter is a trufflelover, passionately searching for this valuable hypogeum fungus. He will go hunting into the woods with his dog (and the dog’s experienced nose) and it will not be satisfied until he can finally hold this precious treasure in his hand. Alba White Truffle life cycle’s takes place in the earth and to produce the precious sporocarps, truffles need no attention to grow, however, they could only be found in certain areas which are treated with agronomical loving care. Truffle’s pale yellow peridium and its rounded shape, are unexciting at first but its uniquely flat and irregular body comes in variable in size. The inside is a display of different shades of milk, antique, deep pink and pale

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Training a Gold Digger Who would have thought that gold digging is not just a metaphor and all you need to find gold is eight years of patience and a good dog? The most expensive food in the world, Alba White truffles can start at $3,600 a pound (Tuber magnatum) and for those who canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford that kind of luxury, there are Black Diamonds, available for a few hundred dollars for a small packet of shavings from French Black Perigord Truffles (Tuber melanosporum). A successful truffle farming experience is a cocktail of mystery, fun of the hunt, patience and good dogs who can dig for gold all day long. The potential financial windfall, attracted large attendance at White truffle festivals for five years in a row and created a new industry: truffle dog training classes. France and Italy have a rich truffle history as white truffles were hunted and served for centuries across Europe to the royal families delight. American farmers are finding their way into the diet of the rich and famous and sell for a healthy profit. While the native truffles that grow in the Pacific Northwest of the United States are priced for less than the European truffles, American farmers have an unfair advantage: the scent of a fresh truffle is priceless for a Michelin Chef as it will land on its kitchen overnight, while the truffle is still fresh. Expected to become a $6 billion global business, truffles are highly prized as a culinary delicacy in the Italian, French, Spanish, Greek and Middle Eastern cuisine.

browns. Truffles live in symbiotic relationships with certain trees, and these mysterious plants demand a delicate environmental balance to be maintain thought-out the year. In the heart of the historic center of Alba, the largest truffle market in the world returns, the hub of a fair dedicated to safety and quality The focus of the 90th edition of the Fair will be, also for this year, the World Market of the Alba White Truffle, hosted as usual inside the Cortile della Maddalena. In the heart of the city, within the historical central area overlooking Via Vittorio Emanuele II, enthusiasts of the most precious fruit of this land will be able to discover itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scent and secrets every Saturday and Sunday of the nine weeks of the Fair, with the additional special openings on Monday and Tuesday December 7th & 8th. THE WORLD MARKET OF THE ALBA WHITE TRUFFLE AND THE CULINARY EXCELLENCE OF ALBAQUALITĂ&#x20AC; The undisputed symbol of the Fair and its culinary excellence is renewed in form, but its substance is more than confirmed, with the World Market remaining the ideal location to discover the extraordinary heritage truffle of Langhe, Monferrato and Roero, as well as a perfect place to appreciate and buy the finest specimens of Tuber magnatum Pico with controlled and guaranteed quality. In fact, the International Alba White Truffle Fair applies a rigorous selection protocol for

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the fresh product for sale. Every year the Municipality of Alba appoints a commission composed of experts who draw up the rules to regulate the sale of the truffle, rules that all the sellers present at the Fair (the “trifulau”, in Piedmont dialect, as well as the “hunters”, but also the merchants) must comply with. And so every day, before the opening of the World Truffle Market, the sellers present their truffles to the judges of the Quality Commission, who perform an accurate sensory analysis by selecting only the products suitable for sale which, at that point, are counted. and weighed. In order to effectively control the characteristics of the product, the Quality Commission delivers a special numbered bag, to be used compulsorily for the sale of each truffle, for each truffle that passes the control. To celebrate the 90th Edition Dinners in the best possible way, a special event will take place on November 13th at the only Three Michelin Star restaurant in the Piedmont area, with an exclusive event that will feature Enrico Crippa at his “Piazza Duomo” in Alba

National Center for Truffle Studies, says: “The big news this year will concern the ways to use the Alba White Truffle: the International Alba White Truffle Fair will be the leader in the application of the procedural guidelines adopted by the Piedmont Region to regulate the use of the White Truffle in all the fairs dedicated to it, within the regional borders. A dedicated commission has in fact defined the specifications for a purchase method ensuring the complete protection of both the buyer and seller, while assuring that handling and smelling the product will be carried out in total safety: the truffles will then be placed in a special glass container, equipped with a lid in silicone specifically for food, to ensure the usability of the product to avoid possible risks “. Among the events confirmed, within the Cortile della Maddalena, you can find the food and wine revie AlbaQualità which, as the name suggests, offers an exhaustive and complete panorama of the Piedmont food and wines offered. Particular attention is paid to the artisanal production of the area, with a choice of products for tasting and to buy, a tasty souvenir of your visit to the International Alba White Truffle Fair. A specific area is also reserved for tasting the wines of Langhe, Roero and Monferrato offered inside the Grande Enoteca by AIS Piemonte, the regional section of the Italian Sommelier Association. Inside the World Market of the White Truffle of Alba, as per every year, you can also find the Alba Truffle Show. This is a space dedicated to cooking shows hosted by great chefs, to workshops, to the Sensory Analysis of the Truffle. There are also opportunities to discover other regions through the excellence of their food and wines, as well as experiential paths to allow visitors coming to Alba from all over the world to make a journey through the flavors that best represent the Italian “bella vita”. When possible we encourage you to have a memorable Italian dining experience, supporting local restaurants in your city this November. If at home, be inspired and celebrate the magic of The Alba White Truffle by enjoying a memorable Italian dining experience .

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5th Annual WHITE TRUFFLE FESTIVAL AN UNFORGETTABLE ITALIAN DINING EXPERIENCE In its fifth year, the American White Truffle Festival is attracting American connoisseurs to one of Italyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rare treasurable tradition, giving the stage to exclusive luxury menus starring the Alba white truffles from Urbani Truffles, which like any star, is coming with good companythe fruits of the vines growing in the same habitat - wines from Prunotto. A chance for Michelin chefs in New York, Miami, D.C., Boston, Denver, Las Vegas, San Francisco to experience the very best of Italian Fine Dining.

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Cru Wine Bar - Denver 1442 Larimer Street Denver, CO, 80202 Phone: 303-893-9463 COLORADO cruwinebar.com

Elway's Downtown AT Ritz Carlton 1881 Curtis Street Denver, CO , 80202 Phone: (303) 312-3107 COLORADO www.elways.com/downtown

Quality Italian 241 Columbine St Denver, CO , 80206 Phone: 3033208529

Quality Italian

COLORADO www.qualityitaliandenver.com

Heritage Eagle Bend Golf Cub 23155 E. Heritage Pkwy Aurora, CO, 80016 Phone: 303-693-7788 COLORADO heritageeaglebend.com

Atlas Valley Purveyors 2770 Arapahoe Road #100 Lafayette, CO, 80026 Phone: 720-287-1728 COLORADO avpurveyors.com

Hazel's Beverage World 1955 28th Street Boulder, CO, 80301 Phone: (303) 447-1955 COLORADO hazelsboulder.com

Quality Italian

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Cafe Margaux 220 Brevard Ave Cocoa, FL, 32922 Phone: (321) 639-8343 FLORIDA margaux.com

Fresco Cucina Italiano 7721 Turkey Lake Rd Orlando, FL, 32819 Phone: (407) 363-5775 FLORIDA frescoorlando.com

La Masseria 5520 PGA Boulevard, Suite 104 Palm Beach Gardens, FL, 33418 Phone: (561) 660-8272 FLORIDA lamasseriapbg.com Forbici

Cena 1208 E Kennedy Blvd Tampa, FL, 33602 Phone: (813) 374-8840 FLORIDA www.cenatampa.com

Meat Market Tampa 1606 W Snow Ave Tampa, Fl , 33606 Phone: (813) 280-1113 FLORIDA meatmarket.net/locations/tampa

Forbici Modern Italian 1633 W Snow Ave Tampa, FL, 33606 Phone: (813) 251-8001 FLORIDA www.eatforbici.com

Cena

Meat Market 191 Bradley Pl Palm Beach, FL , 33480 Phone: (561) 354-9800fl FLORIDA www.meatmarket.net

Virginia Philips Wine Spirits Academy 340 Royal Poinciana Plaza #320 Palm Beach, FL, 33480 Phone: (561) 557-4202 FLORIDA www.virginiaphilipwineandspirits.com

Cafe Sapori 205 Southern Blvd West Palm Beach, FL, 33405 Phone: (561) 805-7313 Annata

FLORIDA www.cafesaporicorp.com

State Street Eating House 205 Southern Blvd West Palm Beach, FL, 33405 Phone: (561) 805-7313 FLORIDA www.cafesaporicorp.com

Annata 300 Beach Drive St. Petersburg, FL, 33701 Phone: 727-564-0391 FLORIDA www.annatawine.com

BellaBrava 204 Beach Dr NE St. Petersburg, FL , 33701 Phone: (727) 895-5515

BellaBrava

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FLORIDA www.bellabrava.com

Caffe Amici 1371 Main Street Sarasota, FL, 34236 Phone: 941-951-6896 FLORIDA www.cafeamicisrq.com

Must Wine Loft 442 2nd St N St. Petersburg, FL, 33701 Phone: (727) 289-6418 FLORIDA www.mustwineloft.com

Book and Bottle 17 6th St. N St. Petersburg, FL, 33701 Phone: 7272407448 FLORIDA www.bookandbottlestpete.com

CafeAmici

Sophia's Cucina + Enoteca 2349 Central Ave, Saint Petersburg,, FL, 33713 Phone: (727) 440-7764 FLORIDA www.sophiascucina.com

L'Acqua Ristorante Italiano 9 SE 7th Ave Delray Beach, FL , 33483 Phone: (561) 563-7492 FLORIDA www.lacquaristoranteitaliano.com

The Wine Wave The Wine Wave 900 E Atlantic Ave #3 Delray Beach, FL , 33483 Phone: (561) 276-2076 FLORIDA www.thewinewave.com

Meat Market

Jack Pallino's Pizza 718 Broadway Dunedin, FL, 34698 Phone: 727-432-4103 FLORIDA pallinospizza.com

Fries To Caviar 6299 N Federal Hwy Boca Raton , FL, 33487 Phone: 561 617 5956 FLORIDA friestocaviar.com

Novello Restaurant & Bar 5999 N Federal Hwy #4 Boca Raton , FL, 33487 Phone: 561 944 3495 FLORIDA www.novelloboca.com Trattoria Romana

Trattoria Romana 499 E Palmetto Park Road, Boca Raton, FL, 33432 Phone: (561) 393-6715 FLORIDA www.trattoriaromanabocaraton.com

Gourmet Phile Special 501 SE Mizner Blvd Unit 80 Boca Raton, Fl , 33432 Phone: (561) 757-6208 FLORIDA gourmetphile.com

ZONA BLU 189 Weston Rd Weston, FL, 33326 Phone: (954) 617-7999 FLORIDA www.zonabluweston.com Zona Blu 102 | RICH WOMAN AMERICA MAGAZINE | Winter 2020/21

Sette Bello Ristorante 6241 N Federal Hwy Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33308 Phone: (954) 351-0505 FLORIDA www.settebellofla.com

Three60 Market 2891 Bayview Dr Naples, FL , 34112 Phone: (239) 732-7331 FLORIDA www.three60market.com

Martoranoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 3343 East Oakland Park Blvd Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33308 Phone: 954.561.2554 FLORIDA www.cafemartorano.com/the-original-ft-lauderdale Thasos

Thasos 3330 E Oakland Park Blvd Fort Lauderdale, FL , 33308 Phone: (954) 200-6006 FLORIDA www.thasosrestaurant.com

Taikin 7450 NW 104th Ave C-101 Miami, FL, 33178 Phone: (844) 824-5468 FLORIDA www.taikinrestaurant.com

Boia De 5205 NE 2nd Ave Miami, FL, 33137 Phone: (305) 967-8866 FLORIDA www.salumeria104.com Taikin

Salumeria 104 Midtown 3451 NE 1st Ave #104 Miami, FL, 33137 Phone: (305) 424-9588 FLORIDA www.salumeria104.com

Totem 2700 N Miami Ave Miami, FL, 33127 Phone: (786) 542-5246 FLORIDA www.totemmiami.com

Zucca 162 Alcazar Ave Coral Gables, FL, 33134 Phone: 561 835-1600 FLORIDA www.zuccamiami.com Salumeria 104 Midtown

Salumeria 104 Coral Gables 117 Miracle Mile Coral Gables, FL, 33134 Phone: (305) 640-5547 FLORIDA www.salumeria104.com

Portosole 2530 Ponce De Leon Boulevard Coral Gables, FL, 33134 Phone: 786-359-4275 FLORIDA www.portosolemiami.com

Toscana DiVino 900 South Miami Avenue Miami, FL, 33130 Phone: (305) 371-2767 FLORIDA www.toscanadivino.com Totem 104 | RICH WOMAN AMERICA MAGAZINE | Winter 2020/21

Amare Ristorante 1 Collins Ave Miami Beach, FL, 33139 Phone: 609-271-3129 FLORIDA www.amareristorante.com

Sunset Corners Wines & Liquors 8701 SW 72nd St Miami, FL , 33173 Phone: (305) 271-8492 FLORIDA www.sunsetcorners.com

Ponte Vedra Inn and Club 200 Ponte Vedra Blvd Ponte Vedra Beach, FL, 32082 Phone: (888) 839-9145 FLORIDA www.pontevedra.com Arite

Ariete 3540 Main Hwy Coconut Grove, FL, 33133 Phone: 305-640-5862 FLORIDA www.arietecoconutgrove.com

Little Palm Island 28500 Overseas Highway Little Torch Key, FL, 33042 Phone: (305) 684-8341 FLORIDA www.littlepalmisland.com

Little Palm Island

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Cipriani Las Vegas 3131 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV , 89109 Phone: (702) 770-7390 LAS VEGAS www.cipriani.com/us/cipriani-las-vegas

Piero's Italian Cuisine 355 Convention Center Dr Las Vegas, NV , 89109 Phone: (702) 369-2305 LAS VEGAS www.pieroscuisine.com

La Pizza & La Pasta Las Vegas 3770 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV, 89109 Phone: (702) 730-7617 LAS VEGAS parkmgm.mgmresorts.com/en/restaurants Cipriani Las Vegas

Nomad 3772 S Las Vegas Blvd Las Vegas, NV, 89109 Phone: (833) 706-6623 LAS VEGAS www.opentable.com/r/the-nomad-restaurant-las-vegas

Ferraro's Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar 4480 Paradise Road Las Vegas , NV, 89169 Phone: (702) 202-2431 LAS VEGAS www.ferraroslasvegas.com

Ferraro's Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar 4480 Paradise Road Las Vegas , NV, 89169 Phone: (702) 202-2431 LAS VEGAS www.ferraroslasvegas.com Piero's Italian Cuisine

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Ampia NYC 100 Broad St New York , NY, 10004 Phone: 212.422.4102 NEW YORK CITY www.ampianyc.com

Keste Fulton 77 Fulton St New York, NY , 10038 Phone: 2126939030 NEW YORK CITY www.kestewallstreet.com

La Pizza & La Pasta Downtown Eataly

101 Liberty St 3rd Floor New York, NY, 10007 Phone: (212) 897-2895 NEW YORK CITY www.eataly.com

Nomo Soho Hotel 9 Crosby St New York, NY, 10013 Phone: (646) 218-6400 NEW YORK CITY www.nomosoho.com/nomo-kitchen/

Sola Pasta Bar 330 W Broadway New York, NY, 10013 Phone: 6466924131 NEW YORK CITY www.solapastabar.com

Sola Pasta Bar

Osteria Brooklyn 458 Mirtle Avenue Brooklyn, NY, 11205 Phone: 646 750 9156 NEW YORK CITY www.osteriabrooklyn.com

Olio e Piu 3 Greenwich Ave New York, NY , 10014 Phone: (212) 243-6546 NEW YORK CITY www.olioepiu.nyc

Osteria 57 Osteria Brooklyn

57 W 10th St New York, NY, 10011 Phone: (212) 777-0057 NEW YORK CITY www.osteria57.com

Oak Tuscan Truffle Lounge 28 Greenwich Ave New York, NY, 10011 Phone: (646) 864-0205 NEW YORK CITY www.oaktuscantrufflelounge.com

Portale 126 W 18th Street New York , NY, 10011 Phone: (917) 781 0255 NEW YORK CITY www.portalerestaurant.com

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Bar Milano Flatiron 200 5th Ave New York, NY, 10010 Phone: 212.229.2560 NEW YORK CITY www.eataly.com

La Pizza & La Pasta Flatiron 200 5th Ave New York, NY, 10010 Phone: 212.229.2560 NEW YORK CITY www.eataly.com

Casa Nonna

310 WEST 38TH STREET NEW YORK, NY , 10018 Phone: (212) 736-3000 NEW YORK CITY www.casanonna.com/new-york

Apulia Hoboken 28 Greenwich Ave New York, NY, 10011 Phone: (646) 864-0205 NEW YORK CITY apuliahoboken.com

Osteria Del Bianco 22 E 49th St New York, NY, 10017 Phone: (212) 838-5972 NEW YORK CITY www.osteriadelbianco.com

Osteria Del Bianco

La Masseria 235 West 48th Street New York, NY, 10036 Phone: 212 582 2111 NEW YORK CITY lamasserianyc.com

Sherry Lehman 505 Park Ave New York, NY, 10022 Phone: (212) 838-7500 NEW YORK CITY www.sherry-lehmann.com

NELLO 696 Madison Ave New York, NY, 10065 Phone: 212-980-9099

Piccola Cucina Uptown

NEW YORK CITY www.nello.com

Piccola Cucina Uptown 106 E 60th St New York, NY, 10022 Phone: (646) 707-3997 NEW YORK CITY www.piccolacucinagroup.com

La Masseria Dei Vini 887 9th Ave New York, NY, 10019 Phone: 212 315 2888 NEW YORK CITY www.masseriadeivini.com

Garnet 929 Lexington Ave New York, NY, 10065 Phone: (212) 772-3211 NEW YORK CITY www.garnetwine.com La Masseria Dei Vini 112 | RICH WOMAN AMERICA MAGAZINE | Winter 2020/21

Vinum 704 Bay St Staten Island, NY , 10304 Phone: 7184488466 NEW YORK CITY www.vinumnyc.com

Lucciola Italian Restaurant 621 Amsterdam Ave New York, NY, 10024 Phone: (347) 536-1335 NEW YORK CITY www.lucciolanyc.com

Casa Bell Vedere 101 Liberty St 3rd Floor New York, NY, 10007 Phone: (212) 897-2895 NEW YORK CITY casa-belvedere.org

Vinum

Franina 58 Jericho Turnpike Syosset, NY , 11791 Phone: 5164969770 NEW YORK CITY www.franina.com

One10 569 Broadhollow Rd Melville, NY, 11747 Phone: (631) 694-3333 NEW YORK CITY www.one10restaurant.com

Pappardella 316 Columbus Avenue New York, NY, 10023 Phone: 212.595.7996 NEW YORK CITY www.pappardella.com One10

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Poesia 4072 18th St San Francisco, CA, 94114 Phone: (415) 252-9325 Northern California www.poesiasf.com

S.P.Q.R. 1911 Fillmore Street San Francisco, CA, 94115 Phone: 415-771-7779 Northern California www.spqrsf.com

Pazzia Caffe & Pizzeria 337 Third St San Francsico, CA, 94107 Northern California www.pazziasf.com S.P.Q.R

Boulevard 1 Mission Street San Francisco, CA, 94105 Phone: 415-543-6084 Northern California www.boulevardrestaurant.com

Piazza D'Angelo 22 Miller Ave Mill Valley, CA , 94941 Phone: (415) 388-2000 Northern California www.piazzadangelo.com

Mezzaluna By The Sea 459 Prospect Way Half Moon Bay, CA, 94019 Phone: (650) 728-8108 Northern California www.mezzalunabythesea.com

Boulevard

Italian Colors 2220 Mountain Blvd #100 Oakland, CA , 94611 Phone: 5104828094 Northern California www.italiancolorsrestaurant.com

Farm at Carneros 4048 Sonoma Hwy Napa, CA , 94559 Phone: 7072994880 Northern California www.farmatcarneros.com

Oenotri 101 Liberty St 3rd Floor New York, NY, 10007 Phone: (212) 897-2895

Farm at Carneros

NEW YORK CITY www.oenotri.com

TORC 1140 Main St Napa, CA, 94559 Phone: 707-252-3293 Northern California www.torcnapa.com

BOTTEGA V Marketplace, 6525 Washington Street Yountville, CA, 94599 Phone: (707) 945-1050 Northern California www.botteganapavalley.com

Valette 344 Center St Healdsburg, CA , 95448 Phone: (707) 473-0946 Northern California www.valettehealdsburg.com BOTTEGA 116 | RICH WOMAN AMERICA MAGAZINE | Winter 2020/21

Carmel's Bistro Giovanni San Carlos Between 5th &, 6th Ave Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA, 93921 Phone: (831) 626-6003 Northern California www.carmelbistro.com

Catch Ocean Ave Between Lincoln Street And, Monte Verde St Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA, 93921 Phone: (831) 624-5659 Northern California www.catchcarmel.com

Grasings NW Corner Of Mission And, 6th Ave Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA , 93921 Phone: (831) 624-6562 Northern California www.grasings.com

Catch

Cantinetta Luca Dolores Street Between Ocean And Seventh Carmel, CA, 93923 Phone: (831)625-6500 Northern California www.cantinettaluca.com

Portabella Ocean Ave Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA, 93921 Phone: (831) 624-4395 Northern California www.portabellacarmel.com

The Pocket Lincoln St, 5 NE Of, 6th Ave Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA, 93921 Phone: (831) 626-8000 Northern California www.thepocketcarmel.com

Camtinetta Luca

Vigilucci Carlsbad 2943 State St Carlsbad , CA, 92008 Phone: (760) 434-2500 Southern California www.vigiluccis.com

Vigilucci Steakhouse 3878 Carlsbad Blvd Carlsbad , CA, 92008 Phone: (760) 434-2580 Southern California www.vigiluccis.com

Gourmet Italia 27499 Ynez Rd Temecula, CA , 92591 Phone: 9516769194 Southern California www.gourmetitaliatemecula.com

Vigilucci Encinitas Maurizio

530 N Coast Hwy 10 Encinitas , CA, 92024 Phone: (760) 634-2365 Southern California www.vigiluccis.com

Maurizio 505 S Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas , CA, 92024 Phone: (760) 942-7332 Southern California www.maurizioca.com

Scuderie Italia 1525 Garnet Ave San Diego , CA, 92109 Phone: (858) 352-6912 Southern California www.scuderieitalia.com

Toscanova Calabasas 4799 Commons Way Unit Calabasas, CA, 91302 Phone: (818) 225-0499 Southern California calabasas.toscanova.com Scudetia Italia 118 | RICH WOMAN AMERICA MAGAZINE | Winter 2020/21

Godfather 7878 Clairemont Mesa Blvd San Diego , CA, 92111 Phone: (858) 560-1747 Southern California www.godfatherrestaurant.com

Baci 1955 Morena Boulevard San Diego , CA, 92110 Phone: (619) 275-2094 Southern California www.sandiegobaci.com

Solare 2820 Roosevelt Rd San Diego , CA, 92106 Phone: (619) 270-9670 Southern California www.solarelounge.com

Rusticucina 3797 Park Blvd San Diego , CA, 92103 Phone: (619) 310-5291

Baci

Southern California www.rusticucina.com

Landini 1827 India St San Diego , CA, 92101 Phone: (619) 238-3502 Southern California www.landinispizzeria.com

Flora 1040 Seventh Ave San Diego, CA , 92101 Phone: (619) 373-0420 Southern California www.florathevenue.com

CafĂŠ Fiore 66 South California St Ventura, CA, 93001 Phone: 805 653 1266 Southern California www.cafefiore.net Rusticucina

Bistro 45 45 S Mentor Ave Pasadena, CA, 91106 Phone: 626-795-2478 Southern California www.bistro45.com

Mi Piace 25 E Colorado Blvd Pasadena, CA, 91105 Phone: (626) 795-3131 Southern California www.mipiace.com

La Spiga Ristorante Italiano 72557 CA-111 Palm Desert, CA , 92260 Phone: (760) 340-9318

Mi Piace

Southern California www.laspigapalmdesert.com

Il Patio 10250 Santa Monica Blvd Los Angeles, CA, 90067 Phone: (213) 310-8000 Southern California www.eataly.com/us_en/stores/los-angeles

Terra 10250 Santa Monica Boulevard, Roof Los Angeles, CA, 90067 Phone: (213) 310-8008 Southern California www.eataly.com/us_en/stores/los-angeles/la-terra/

Caffe Roma 350 N Canon Dr Beverly Hills, CA, 90210 Phone: 310-274-7834 Southern California www.cafferomabeverlyhills.com Bistro 45 120 | RICH WOMAN AMERICA MAGAZINE | Winter 2020/21

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La Pizza & La Pasta Boston 800 Boylston St Boston, MA, 02199 Phone: (212) 229-2560 BOSTON www.eataly.com/us_en/stores/boston/boston-pizza-pasta

La Campania Waltham 504 Main St Waltham, MA , 02452 BOSTON www.lacampania.com

Pazzia Caffe & Pizzeria 504 Main St Waltham, MA , 02452 BOSTON www.lacampania.com I PAZZI

I Pazzi 50 Maple St Danvers, MA, 01923 Phone: 978 777-1955 BOSTON www.ipazzirestaurant.com

Bricco 241 Hanover St Boston, MA, 02113 Phone: 617 248-6800 BOSTON www.bricco.com

Arya 253 Hanover Street Boston, MA, 02113 Phone: 617 742 1276 BOSTON www.aryatrattoria.com

Arya

Monica's Pasta Shop 141 Richmond St Boston Boston, MA , 02109 Phone: (617) 227-0311 BOSTON www.monicasboston.com

Vinoteca di Monica 143 Richmond Street Boston, MA, 02109 Phone: 617 227 0311 BOSTON www.monicasboston.com

Forcella 33 North Square Boston, MA, 02113 Phone: 617 936 4274 BOSTON www.forcellaboston.com

Neptune Oyster Vinoteca di Monica

63 Salem St Boston, MA, 02113 Phone: 617 742-3474 BOSTON www.neptuneoyster.com

Mamma Maria 3 North Square Boston, MA, 02113 Phone: 617 523-0077 BOSTON www.mammamaria.com

Prezza 24 Fleet St Boston, MA, 02113 Phone: 617 227-1577 BOSTON www.prezza.com

Massimino's 207 Endicott St Boston, MA, 02113 Phone: 617 523-5959 BOSTON www.massiminosboston.com Prezza 124 | RICH WOMAN AMERICA MAGAZINE | Winter 2020/21

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Coppa Osteria 5210 Morningside Dr Houston, TX, 77005 Phone: (713) 237-1515 Texas www.coppaosteriahouston.com

Cru Food and Wine Bar HOU - Riveroaks 2800 Kirby Dr. B-130 Houston, TX, 77098 Phone: (713) 528-9463 Texas www.cruwinebar.com

Da Marco Coppa Osteria

1520 Westheimer Rd Houston, TX, 77006 Phone: (512) 482-8655 Texas www.damarcohouston.com

Amalfi Restorante Italiano 6100 Westheimer Rd Houston, TX, 77057 Phone: (713) 532-2201 Texas www.amalfihouston.com

Cru Food and Wine Bar HOUThe Woodlands 9595 Six Pines Dr #650 The Woodlands, TX, 77380 Phone: (281) 465-9463 Texas www.cruwinebar.com

Amalfi Restorante Italiano

Woodlands Country Club 100 Grand Fairway Drive The Woodlands, TX, 77381 Texas www.clubcorp.com/Clubs/The-Woodlands-Country-Club

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Italian Cucina 1500 S Lamar Blvd UNIT 110 Austin, TX, 78704 Phone: 512-482-8655 Texas www.itsitaliancucina.com

Cru Food and Wine Bar Austin- 2nd St 238 W 2nd St Unit 13 Austin, TX, 78701 Phone: (512) 472-9463 Texas www.cruwinebar.com

Burgundy Swine

Cru Food and Wine Bar Austin - Domain 11410 Century Oaks Terrace #104 Austin, TX, 78758 Phone: (512) 339-9463 Texas www.cruwinebar.com

Saint Rocco's 3011 Gulden Ln # 100 Dallas, TX, 75212 Phone: (469) 320-9707 Texas www.saintroccos.com

Burgundy Swine 2336 Victory Park Ln Dallas, TX, 75219 Phone: (972) 803-1299 Texas www.burgundyswine.com

Mot Hai Ba 665 High Market St Dallas, TX, 75219 Phone: (469) 250-7293

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Texas www.mothaibadallas.com

Tei An 1722 Routh St #110 Dallas, TX, 75201 Phone: (214) 220-2828 Texas www.tei-an.com

The Charles 1632 Market Center Blvd Dallas, TX, 75207 Phone: (469) 917-9000 Texas www.thecharlesdallas.com

Cru Food and Wine Bar Dallas - West Village 3699 McKinney Ave #107 Dallas, TX, 75204 Phone: (214) 526-9463 Texas www.cruwinebar.com

Maplewood 2615 Inwood Rd Dallas, TX, 75235 Phone: (972) 982-0240

The Charles

Texas www.maplewooddallas.com

Oishii SMU 5627 SMU Boulevard Dallas, TX, 75206 Phone: (972) 863-8863 Texas www.oishiirestaurants.com

The Downing 106 S San Jacinto St Rockwall, TX, 75087 Phone: (469) 769-7090 Texas www.thedowningbnb.com

Pogos 5360 W Lovers Ln Dallas, TX, 75209 Phone: (214) 350-8989 Texas www.pogoswine.com Oishii

Trova 4004 VILLANOVA STREET Dallas, TX, 75225 Phone: 469-930-0069 Texas www.trovawine.com

Princi Italia Dallas 5959 Royal Ln #707 Dallas, TX, 75230 Phone: (214) 739-5959 Texas www.princiitalia.com

Ellerbe's Fine Foods 1501 W Magnolia Ave Fort Worth , TX, 76104 Phone: (817) 926-3663 Texas www.ellerbefinefoods.com Princi Italia Dallas

Cru Food and Wine Bar Fort Worth 5188 Marathon Ave. Fort Worth , TX, 76109 Phone: (817) 737-9463 Texas www.cruwinebar.com

Wishbone & Flynt 334 Bryan Ave Fort Worth , TX, 76104 Phone: (817) 945-2433 Texas www.wishboneandflynt.com

Grace 777 Main St Fort Worth , TX, 76102 Phone: (817) 877-3388 Texas www.gracefortworth.com Wishbone & Flynt 130 | RICH WOMAN AMERICA MAGAZINE | Winter 2020/21

Off the Vine 324 S Main St Grapevine, TX, 76051 Phone: (817) 421-1091 Texas www.offthevinetexas.com

Scardello Oaklawn 3511 Oak Lawn Ave Dallas, TX, 75219 Phone: (817) 984-1110 Texas www.scardellocheese.com

Princi Italia Plano 3300 Dallas Parkway STE. 120 (EAST SIDE OF TOLLWAY @, W Parker Rd Plano, TX, 75093 Phone: (972) 378-9463 www.princiitalia.com Princi Italia Plano

Cru Food and Wine Bar Dallas- Allen 842 Watters Creek Blvd. Allen, TX, 75013 Phone: (972) 908-2532 Texas www.cruwinebar.com/allen

Cru Food and Wine Bar Dallas- Legacy 7201 Bishop Rd. Plano, TX, 75024 Phone: (972) 312-9463 Texas www.cruwinebar.com

Waters Fort Worth 301 Main St Fort Worth , TX, 76102 Phone: (832) 839-5436 Texas www.waterstexas.com Waters Fort Worth

15 Delicious and Easy Healthy Snacks to Make at Home By Danna Levy-Hoffman

ou might be surprised, but it is possible to lose weight without giving up snacks. Even more than that – some snacks can even help you balance your weight and accelerate the weight loss process. To make it easier for you, I’ve created a list of snacks that would work for everyone. Some of them are low-calorie snacks, some of them are high protein snacks, and all but one will be highly appreciated by vegans. But what unites all of these snacks is that they are both healthy and delicious!

1.Raw Nuts Nuts are a great source of protein, unsaturated fat, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and vitamin E. Moreover, the Mayo Clinic emphasizes that eating nuts can lower your cholesterol and lower the risk of heart disease overall. Just mix and match raw nuts, enjoy your favorites and make sure to try others too. Just make sure not to overdo it with Brazil nuts. Keep to only 4-6 a day, as they are very high on selenium, which when consumed in high amounts, could lead to selenium toxicity.

2. Fruit and Nuts Yes, we’ve covered nuts in the previous paragraph, but the combination of fruit and nuts will not only be delicious and full of nutrients, but it will also help the body break the fruit sugar slower, allowing you to feel more saturated and have more sustainable energy.

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3. A Piece of Fruit With Nut Butter Same as above, yet enjoyed in a slightly different way. Apples and almond butter with a bit of cinnamon, banana and peanut butter, pear and tahini, anything goes! You’ll love the taste of it and there’s so much room for the experiment!

4. Overnight Chia Pudding Chia seeds don’t contain many vitamins, but they’re a great source of calcium and they are also gluten-free, which makes them a popular protein source for people with whole-grain sensitivities or celiac disease. And the fun thing about chia pudding is that you can play around with any flavors you want. Berries cinnamon lemon zest, peanut butter banana walnut, tahini cinnamon medjool dates, mango coconut pecan, cacao raspberry orange zest… the sky is the limit!

5. Homemade Smoothies There are so many benefits to drinking smoothies. For example, they can help you lose excess body weight without skipping any meals, they can prevent your body from dehydration and let you be in control of your cravings. Simply make sure that in your smoothie, you don’t use more fruit than you’d be having in one go if you ate them whole.Just make sure to have one cup of fruit to 3 cups of greens, adding nut butter and other healthy fats to the equation for a well-balanced delight.

6. Hard-Boiled Eggs Hard-boiled eggs are extremely low in calories and rich in many important vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that are so necessary for you to feel well. What makes the hardboiled eggs better than the fried eggs is that they are prepared without additional oil or butter, so they’re lower in calories and fat. So, if you’re not sensitive to eggs, you can enjoy a couple of hard boiled eggs without feeling guilty.

7. Avocado and Tomato During the right season, this combo will be super nutritious and crazy delicious! I love making a quick guacamole mixing my crushed avocado with salt, pepper, turmeric and good quality olive oil (and a squeeze of lime if I have one at hand). Then I cube the tomato and mix it in. Easy peasy lemon squeeze!

8. High Quality 70% Dark Chocolate Yes, it’s not only tasty (even though it is a bit more bitter than milk chocolate), but it is also rich in fiber, iron, magnesium, copper, manganese and a few other minerals. Even exercise capacity increases when consuming dark chocolate! All in all, the 70% dark chocolate will, by default, have more cacao and less sugar. If you’re lucky you can even find chocolates that use healthier replacements to white sugar and will taste delicious! If it’s a raspberry season, I recommend getting some organic raspberries and placing a small piece of the dark chocolate inside the hole. Best combo ever!

9.Homemade Hummus Homemade hummus is just great for a snack or as a meal! Hummus can help you help improve your bone, muscle, skin, and blood health. There are many ways to make hummus at home, either using canned chickpeas, or going the extra mile to soak and cook dry ones. Whichever way you prefer making your hummus, make sure to use high quality tahini, and extra virgin olive oil for best results! 134 | RICH WOMAN AMERICA MAGAZINE | Winter 2020/21

10. Veggie Sticks Mindlessly eat as many vegetables as you want, your body will only thank you for it. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really not much else to say .

11. Olives Olives are an ultimate heart-healthy snack that helps you improve circulation and has anti-inflammatory benefits. I recommend buying olives with the pit as they have more flavor. A great combination of the healthy fat and delicious umami flavor.

12.Roasted Veggies Even though roasting or steaming vegetables can change their nutritional profile, they still keep the majority of their nutrient values: they stay full of fiber, low in calories and rich in minerals. Play around with different spices, or roast with just good quality sea salt and avocado oil. Eggplant, Brussels sprouts, carrots, zucchini, Jerusalem artichoke, kohlrabi, green beans, kale, anything goes! I challenge you to try roasting a vegetable you usually donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like, and see if this method of cooking changes your mind.

13. Homemade Energy Balls It’s as easy as taking a bunch of nuts, and some Medjool dates or any dried fruit you like, whizzing it all up in a food processor, adding cacao or lemon/orange zest and a bit of cinnamon, and there you have it, the perfect snack!

14. Roasted Chickpeas The best part about chickpeas is that they are high in protein and fiber, which makes them a filling food that can help lower appetite and reduce calorie consumption at meals. Just as with the roasted vegetables, play around with spices and flavors.

15. Edamame Edamame is a delicious, nutritious bean that’s an outstanding low-calorie snack option. The best part – cooking it is extremely simple. Unlike most other legumes, edamame doesn’t require a long time to cook. Just boiling it for 3-5 minutes is usually enough, but it can also be steamed or panfried. I hope my article helped you complete your shopping list. In the meantime, if you’re looking for a safe nutrition program, I’d be happy to assist you. My Urban Cleanse Program will help you lose weight, feel energized, control your health, and enjoy every single bite! And YOU WON’T BE LEFT HUNGRY, GUARANTEED!

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9 Ways To Get More Antioxidants Into Your Diet

t’s no secret that antioxidants are incredibly beneficial to good health. It’s believed the antioxidants in food can help prevent cancer, reverse or slow aging, enhance your immune system, increase your energy and improve heart and other organ health. Given all we know about antioxidants and their beneficial properties, it’s amazing more people don’t get enough fruits and vegetables, the primary sources of antioxidants. Experts recommend a minimum of 5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily, but say getting 7-10 servings is best.

01.

Breakfast

Breakfast doesn’t have to be a hurried toaster tart on the way out the door. Throw some strawberries, 100% juice and yogurt into a blender; pour your delicious mixture into a cup and head out the door. You’ve just added one to three servings of fruits to your daily intake. Or throw some berries onto your cold or hot cereal. Say you truly have no time in the morning and usually grab something on the run. Even the Golden Arches can be of some help here. Order a fruit and yogurt parfait and some apple slices. For about £2, you have a breakfast providing one to two servings of fruit.

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02.

Snack s

Here’s an easy way to get more antioxidants in your diet. How about a handful of raisins for a snack, or some fresh red grapes? Dip some strawberries in yogurt. You’ll feel decadent, but the berries provide the color you’re looking for. Need crunch? How about some baby carrots dipped in hummus? Consider a handful of pecans for crunch and a nice antioxidant boost.

03.

Lunch & Dinner

It might sound trite but adding a salad to each of your main daily meals can add loads to your overall health and well-being. They do not have to be boring, and they do not have to be just salad greens. If you are going classic, add some red pepper slices to your green salad, some tomatoes to the Greek salad, or tart cranberries to your field greens. Whip up a broccoli salad for lunch or be adventurous and mix up a rice salad with a mélange of fresh vegetables like string beans, tomatoes, peppers, and red onions.

04.

Des sert

Berries, with or without whipped cream or chocolate are a wonderful way to end your day of healthy, antioxidant-rich eating.

05.

Beverages

Replace your soda with tea or coffee, both of which boast antioxidant compounds. Have a glass of wine with dinner, or for a real change of pace, pour a glass of chai tea.

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06.

Think outside the box

We know we can get our antioxidant fix from berries, salads and the like, but researchers say powerful antioxidants can also be found in a variety of unexpected foods, like russet potatoes, artichokes, and small red beans. The beans, in fact, may have more antioxidant power than blueberries, experts say. So, to your rice salad full of vegetables, add some beans for even more antioxidants.

07.

Cook Lightly

You think you’re being good, preparing vegetables each night for your family’s dinner. But if you’re overcooking the vegetables, you’re cooking out a lot of the beneficial properties of the antioxidants. Steam (do not boil) vegetables and stop cooking them when they will have all their bright color and most of their bite.

HEALTH

08.

Plant a garden

Experts believe that people who plant and harvest vegetables from their own yards are far more likely to eat more vegetables and fruits than people who buy their produce from the store. So plant a garden, watch it grow and eat the fruits (literally) of your labor.

09.

Take your healthy diet on holiday

Too many of us consider going on holiday an opportunity to take a break from everything, including healthy eating. Think of your holiday as a way to be introduced to new foods. Order interesting dishes and meals and experiment with the local food culture. After all, whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the point of eating the same old thing you would at home? Plus, you never know when you may discover something totally amazing you can bring back with you.

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RICH WOMAN MAGAZINE THE SWISS EDITION

ORDER TODAY shop.richwoman.co

Eat right, keep moving.

erhaps you have read all that you need to know about how to prevent being overweight. That simple set of instructions should be easy to follow, but not for 35% of Americans who are unable to prevent being overweight. Of course, once we are overweight, we usually want to trim down for a whole lot of reasons, some related to health, others having to do with looks. In addition, it is never too late to lose weight. But the fact is, it is a whole lot easier to prevent putting on pounds than to try losing them later on. And if there is one thing we all know, it is that weight gain is likely to happen if we do not take forward-looking steps to stop it. Health experts say that most people who are into losing weight usually stray. They tend to go back to their old eating habits even after they learn to enjoy low-fat eating. They tend to return to sedentary ways even though they enjoy exercising. But despite the momentum toward weight gain, you can stop it from happening, experts say. And there are plenty of good reasons to avoid excess weights, reasons that go beyond vanity or social acceptance. In fact, some health experts contend that the significance of excess weight is more than cosmetic. They say that it takes a huge toll on peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s physical health.

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The Way to Losing Weight…Naturally The nuts and bolts of eating right and maintaining a healthy weight is not all that complicated. In fact, it is a good bet that most people know pretty well what is best. Hence, losing weight the natural way should not be a problem at all. Consequently, a reasonable approach for losing weight naturally is to stick to a diet that is high in complex carbohydrates, high in fiber, moderate in protein, and low in fat. A complex carbohydrate is a baked potato. Fat is the sour cream and butter you should not put on it. Fiber in vegetables. Fat is the oil you should not fry them in. Protein is a lean cut of meat. Fat is the gravy you should not pour over it. Moreover, health experts say that dietary fat promotes weight gain because it is a very dense source of calories. Also, when you consume excess calories from dietary fat, you store those calories as body fat more efficiently than excess calories from other sources. On the other hand, it can also help you lose weight naturally if you will not fall into the so-called “fatfree” trap. Manufacturers keep coming out with lowfat or fat-free versions of their best-selling foods, but Americans keep getting fatter anyway. One of the greatest delusions of the 1990s is that “no fat” means “non-fattening.” The truth is, you are often getting just as many calories from the no-fat version, even if the calories are not coming from fat. The term fat-free can be a trap if you start to believe that you can eat any amount of the foods that are advertised that way. What’s more, it is best to respond to hunger with healthful snacks. Health experts say it would be better to try eating every three to four hours, which may mean a nutritious low-fat snack between lunch and dinner. When you feel the urge for food coming on, snacking on something healthy such as a slice of whole-grain toasted bread is a better alternative. Never skip a meal and eat snacks instead because that is the worst thing you can do if you are trying to control your eating habits and weight. Remember, if you want to lose weight naturally, you have to keep track of every food you eat and of every activity that you do. When you say natural weight loss means that you do not have to use some accessories or helpful aids just to lose weight. Losing weight naturally is a process and not a fad. Hence, it would take a lot of dogged determination, self-control, and discipline just to achieve your ideal weight.

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Health & Wellness

The queen of wellness

Not going with the flow

nce an overweight mom, Jennifer Nicole Lee is the ultimate Fitness Model, weight loss success turnaround story. She took control of her life, shedding over 80 lbs, leading her to become a best selling author of over 15 wellness books, inspiring millions of women who dream to live life on their own terms.The Cover Girl for over 93 magazines, Jennifer appeared in numerous globally broadcast infomercials with her signature products including the Ab Circle Pro, Mini Circle, and Chest Magic, and on top shopping networks, such as QVC and The Home Shopping Network. Coined as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Steve Jobs of the fitness industryâ&#x20AC;? Ms Lee is an international celebrity and branched out her empire with the mindset to pay it forward. A true philanthropist, she is contributing to many different organizations and endeavors to empower every woman across the globe, constantly harnessing her limitless desire to help other moms to have the life they so richly deserve. In this interview Jennifer is sharing eight "instead" steps while not going with the flow and how to create an unconscious anticipation of joy, happiness and feeling so blessed during lockdown, while in self isolation.

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Cover Story

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Cover Story

Jennifer, your books on wellness, transformation, fitness, health and food sold worldwide, and you are building your empire with the desire to pay it forward, what drives you? It's plain and simple. Very Important People have Very Important Programming and Very Important Programs they stick to. Like every woman who dreams to win in all areas of life, before becoming successful, focused and disciplined, my “program” for life was just to get by, I was "going with the flow" to survive, accepting whatever life handed my way. As I started my personal self help journey, I soon realized that I too had to “Re-Program” myself. I had to replace my old, archaic, outdated habits with new ones that actually served me. Here are the eight " instead" steps I take myself: Instead of sleeping in- I wake up early every day at the same time. Instead of going to be late- I go to bed early every day the same time. Instead of worrying- I become a warrior Instead of going with the flow- I start to create and design the life that I want to live. Instead of crying victim- I choose to be victorious Instead of being focused on the problem- I create solutions to my problems Instead of trying to fix everyone's problems- I let go and let God Instead of swapping out looking frazzled and flustered- I make sure that I put myself together, polished and poised! You see, just like a computer, we are all wired or programmed a certain way, either for success or to be unsuccessful. To be fearful, or full of faith. To be full of confusion, or have clarity.

You mentioned being wired and reprogramming ourselves to master our lives. Let's dig deeper. What does it take to change your lifestyle, live your life on your own terms? We all function from our subconscious mind. We have 80,000-90,000 thoughts per day, and all of them are subconscious! So no wonder we sometimes self sabotage our success. So we must look deep at our Beliefs Systems to see what is hurting us or helping us. You have to stop believing in limited thoughts, and to crush your Limiting Beliefs System! So you are ready to kick butt in all areas of your life. But guess what, your mind, your belief systems and your subconscious thoughts can absolutely stop you from the success that you absolutely want. If you are looking for pain in your life, you will find it. If you are looking for happiness in your life, you will find it. It’s a powerful Universal rule! Whatever you are seeking, is also then silently seeking you! So when you are reprogramming yourself and creating new ways to live your life on your own terms, you wake up looking for success, seeking happiness, requesting abundance, joy, health and love in your life-and everything you seek it will show up!

You designed your life on your own terms and now you are the Queen of Wellness. What is your secret? How do you keep your energy so high throughout the day? Do you have daily routines? I don't know about having a secret, as I share my morning rituals all the time. Anyone could start a good day by winning the MORNING! If you pray, start with a prayer. Express your gratitude as often as you can and if you run out of inspiration, google for a positive message on a video, or search for a Morning Mindfulness Meditation. If you are going to have lasting results, you have to do daily rituals. You don’t take one bath, or shower once and you are clean for the rest of your life. You don’t go to the gym once and expect to be in shape for the rest of your life. You don’t go to church once to have an amazing relationship with your higher power. Get the point? So you need to do daily rituals, daily habits in order to have long term success. For example: how many of you learned a language in college? But you can't even say a few sentences! So you got to learn and grow through immersion! This is where events come into play! So in order to use all of your VIP POWER you have to get to an event, a wellness retreat, a fitness weekend, a seminar, an online webinar to USE what you learned, through IMMERSION! So make sure you seek out the next VIP Seminar in your area, or online, or even get daily motivation online.

“

The most important piece of advice you will ever hear is this: END ALL NEGATIVE SELF TALK

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You are always feeling blessed, the question is how do you stay in that space? How do you create an unconscious anticipation of joy, happiness and feeling so blessed during lockdown, while in self isolation? What are your top tips for our readers? It is very important to improve your mental and emotional state by starting your day off right! It’s a daily discipline and you should never find an excuse to do it! It takes 10-15 minutes, so you can do it every day. CHANGE YOUR EXPECTATIONS FOR APPRECIATION You see, when you don’t have your expectations met, and you have been working so hard, and you get little to no results, you get bummed and feel down and angry. But if you switch this, and start to replace expectations, everything changes to your advantage. TRAIN YOUR BRAIN! Use your brain, or it will start using YOU! Have you ever had your brain just run ragged? Well, we got to control it so it is a master to you, you are not a master to it. Be your own best friend, not your own worst enemy- all starts with your brain, and how you use it for your greater good!

Cover Story

LET GO OF OLD PROGRAMS, & REPLACE NEW ONES When you talk about it, it’s a dream. When you visualize it, it's cool & exciting. When you schedule it, it's real! Commit to it! Put it on your calendar! Put it on your planner! GO FROM PEAK TO PEAK Plan your successes in advance. When you crush a goal, you feel great! And then there is more, drop by drop. So you are up and down, up and down. But if you keep planning your big power moves, your goals, and keep them packed on your calendar, you will be effectively reprogramming yourself to become the power house that you want to be! Don’t let opportunity escape your grasp. IF YOU WANT TO CHANGE THE WORLD, AND CHANGE OTHER PEOPLE, YOU HAVE TO FIRST START WITH CHANGING YOURSELF Let’s get real: You can’t change anyone. You have to become the change you want to see in the world, and also what you want to see in others. Once you become that, you will attract others like you, and set the bar, raising the bar to new heights.

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YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT, AND ALSO YOU ARE THE MEDIA YOU CONSUME If thoughts become things, and what visuals you allow into your mind manifests into reality, make sure you are “consuming” positive media that will help you become the VIP woman you want to be. Stay away from negative news, soap operas, reality TV that evokes jealously and bad emotions because these forms of media will cause negativity in your mind, body, and spirit. Instead, replace negative media with positive videos, audio books, guided meditations, positive affirmations, music and movies. Feed your mind positive media every day! Rewire it, retrain it to see the good, expect the good, and believe that you can create your dream VIP life. Keep the momentum going, making sure you do daily rituals of positive affirmations, guided meditations, praying, journal writing, and listening to positive audio books, seminars, and joining group coaching calls. I offer tons of supportive media in my Private coaching group that you can listen to when you are getting dressed in the morning, running errands, or working from home.

Cover Story

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Cover Story

DON’T ENTERTAIN NEGATIVE PEOPLE - IT’S A TRAP! Do you know someone that would always like to “stir-the-pot” and cause negative energy? Stay away from them! It’s a trap. I call them energy vampires. Delete them from your phone, and block them on social media. It's time for you to clean house of non-VIP like women, so you can leave the rest to be your BEST! VIP Women know their value, their worth and only entertain other like-mindedwomen. The most important piece of advice you will ever hear is this: END ALL NEGATIVE SELF TALK I had to finally put an end to negative self talk. From growing up being teased, bullied, and never fitting in, I suffered from always talking negative to myself. I was raised on food stamps, wore hand-me-downs, and ate free lunches. I never felt good enough. These early feelings of despair, lack, and not being “good enough” stayed with me for a long time. I had to TRAIN MYSELF to stop feeling bad about myself. How did I do this? I used what I call now the “VIP Positive Talk Method”. As soon as a negative thought pops into my mind about myself, I recognize it, and then completely flip it to be the exact opposite.

Grab your copy: www.jnlvipshop.com Use promo code YESYOUCAN for 20% off!

The Power of Luxury Self-Care Rituals By Deborah Hladecek

e-discovering yourself as a mature woman, mother and a truth seeker is never easy unless you understand the power of luxury self care rituals for renewal and vitality. When I first heard the term, ‘Luxury Rituals’, it felt somewhat contradictory. What exactly is a luxury ritual? I had to unpack the individual meanings to make sense of it. My understanding of ritual was grounded in tradition, symbolism, discipline and healing with intention. While I equated luxury with style, opulence, grand expense and posh comfort. How could these intersect in a meaningful way? The deeper I explored this paradigm the more I had to redefine what luxury means today. I realized that time is the new luxury. Not the fancy car, designer handbag or holidays, but time to do whatever sparks joy for us. Feng Shui expert Alex Stark, says that “a ritual is a way of connecting with the earth and calls for a re-balancing of male and female energies to help our species survive”. One of my ritual teachers, Daniel Foor, says that “ritual is a way of re-balancing the integrity of a space or a situation in order to create a potentially better outcome”. Put in this context, it doesn’t feel selfish to take time out for self care rituals. But, self care isn’t something you do once every 6 months and check it off your list. A key component of ritual, although not wholly defining, is repetition. Doing them daily, even in small ways can help bring us back into balance and soothe our souls. The Dalai Lama, for example, is committed to sustaining his lifestyle of self care by knowing when to say “no” to others to preserve his daily self care rituals.

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I Celebrate Myself And Sing Myself WALT WHITMAN

If only we had more time to follow the Dalai Lama’s lead; to be present with our children, to read that anticipated book, to have a quiet cup of tea or to just have 10 minutes alone in the bathroom. For most of us, finding the time or the energy to take care of ourselves is a challenge; even when the benefits of self care are clear. If you could make more time for self care rituals, what would that look like for you? Self care has been shown to strengthen our immune systems by activating the parasympathetic nervous system (rest + digest), it makes us more productive, boosts our self esteem and causes us to be more compassionate to others. When we fill our own bucket, we are then able to fill another’s.

Daily Sustainable Luxury Self Care Rituals I like simple self care rituals because it makes them more likely to be sustainable. For a simple, daily practice try experiencing a cup of herbal tea, mindfully, with all of your senses. Breathe in the aroma and feel the warmth of the tea cup in your hand. Focus your attention and all of your senses in the moment. Rituals don’t have to be elaborate. The practice can be practical rather than poetic. It can just be 10 minutes, but will give you so much more in return. Or, try walking barefoot on the earth and feel the grass under your feet, grounding you. If you take your cup of tea into the garden, your feet will connect you to the yin earth energies, while the volatile components of your tea will connect you to the yang sky energies. I suggest looking at your motivation and intention of your ritual to be better connected to its power. Rituals are dynamic, so allow for unexpected things to happen. This way we are not attached to a particular outcome.

The healing power of Luxury Self Care Rituals My favorite self care ritual takes a little longer, so I aim to do it weekly, rather than daily. I renew myself with a 20- 30 minute mineral bath soak with essential oils + flowers. Water energy is associated with the sacral or second chakra and is about fluidity, empathy, femininity and connection to our emotions. For thousands of years mineral salts have been used to detoxify the body and assist with cleansing the aura, along with crystals or the ancient practices of smoke cleansing with aromatic plants. The cleansing and healing powers of water make it a regenerative self care ritual. I always feel like a reset button has been pressed after emerging from a bath. There are many simple rituals you can begin to incorporate into your life; from elevating your nighttime skin care routine by adding an intention or affirmation to dry brushing to promote cellular renewal and vitality. You could try the practice of alternate nostril breathing, called Pranayama in Sanskrit or yoga and meditation. You may already have a meaningful ritual and need to prioritize yourself to make it happen. Giving yourself the luxury of time and attention with intention regularly, is an act of self love. If you agree with the poet and author Rupi Kaur, who says “How you love yourself is how you teach others to love you”, then it’s time to re-prioritize your time.

The shift into Sustainable Luxury Self Care Rituals Finally, when I think of luxury in its original meaning, I think a shift towards ethical and sustainable luxury is the future. This means luxury products or services with conscious, sustainable values as their ethos. There are products and services that aim to generate meaningful moments to support you on your quest for re-balance or self improvement. These can be useful in your self care rituals, but you shouldn’t feel as though you need anything outside of yourself to fulfill your luxury self care ritual.

5 Best Self- Care Tips To Feel Rich, Luxurious And Confident By Martina Fink

aking sure that your daily rituals make you feel rich and luxurious – in my words I would say „glowing“ – I have put together my top five selfcare tips for you to be productive and feel confident and radiant, so you will never again feel like an unmotivated couch potato! Now that a lot of us have spent quite some time at home, maybe you got a bit in a rut, put on yoga pants every day, had your hair in a messy bun, and skipped the makeup, unless you had to show up for a call (and sometimes even then!)

To feel rich and confident upgrade your skin care to clean, green and ethical products Your skin is a reflection of your soul and of how well you’re taking care of yourself. It is the biggest organ and is what separates our inner body and organs from outside impacts. It is how we regulate our body temperature, and is therefore important that we take care of it. My skin care routine is one of the first things I do every morning. I cleanse, tone, and moisturize my face every day, mornings and evenings. The products I use are clean, transparent, and come in luxuriously designed glass bottles, and this ritual just makes me feel so radiant from the inside out.

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Start your self- care rituals with a glam breakfast In my Glow world, I like to make every aspect of my life glowing. This also includes making a breakfast that is not only healthy and delicious, but also looks pretty, is colorful, and like you added a lot of vitamin L (love) to it! So this can be a green smoothie with spinach, banana, silken tofu, plant-based protein powder, oat milk, and hemp seed topping, an oatmeal bowl with frozen cherries, banana slices, and cacao nibs topping, or a smoothie bowl decorated with fresh kiwi, banana, cashew nuts, and flax seeds. Nourish your body with as many organic and fresh plants and fruits as you can and stay away from anything toxic, packaged, and processed.

Confident clothing make you feel rich and glamorous throughout the day when you work from home While yoga pants and hoodies are comfy and just the right thing to wear at times, they often don’t give us a very confident, rich, and luxurious feeling about ourselves. I’ve found that wearing jeans and a cute t-shirt, or my favorite robe can make such a difference in how I feel! I then also put my hair in a braid or a high pony tail, use some organic hair spray to fix it, wear my favorite earrings, and do my makeup – just because. These little things have the power to boost your confidence on days you need it a little more! As without so within – change how you look on the outside, and it is going to impact how you feel on the inside!

Make your home a reflection of the rich and luxurious life you desire If you desire to up level your life, manifest more abundance, better relationships, a higher income, more success, peace, and happiness in your life, you need to align yourself with that vibration before you get it. Like attracts like, so when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on the vibration of the rich and luxurious life you dream of, you will attract the rich and luxurious things you desire. Home is a place where we spend quite some time at and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s where we start and end our days. Making your home a reflection of the life you desire is the first step to getting there. Now what exactly that means depends on exactly what you desire.

Want to feel more grounded and peaceful? Get yourself some beautiful plants. Want to feel feminine, nurtured, and beautiful? Get yourself fresh flowers every week. Want your home office to reflect the success that best version of you will have? Add little elements like a plant, wall prints, and a journal that resonate. Want to create space to receive all the abundance you desire? Declutter your home and release, throw out, get rid of anything that keeps your shelves full, your tables messy, and your wardrobes overflowing.

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What is the best tip to end the day with confidence and feeling rich and luxurious? We can’t feel rich and luxurious if our bodies are exhausted and you wake up in the morning feeling like you got run over by a truck. Getting good quality beauty sleep every night is just as important as moving your body daily and drinking enough water. While lots of people turn their phones off the minute they turn off the lights, this can pretty much guarantee that you’re not going to get into restful and deep sleep. Get some no-phone time before bed and turn it off at least an hour before you go to bed. Your bedroom should be an oasis for relaxation. Don’t work from bed, don’t turn it into an office, and keep your electronics out of the bedroom. You’re saying you use your phone to set your alarm? Just get an alarm clock. Upgrade your bed sheets and pillows to organic cotton, and use a calming pillow mist. Rub some lavender oil onto your wrists and inhale deeply. When you close your eyes, go over your day and think about all the things that went well and that you’re proud of. Express gratitude for the people in your life, your health, and the life you get to live on this earth.

About the writer: Martina Fink is the founder of the transformational program Perfectionist Rehab and the host of The Glow Life Podcast, Martina helps perfectionist and high achieving executives, managers, entrepreneurs, and celebrities like you overcome overwhelm, trust your intuition, and feel great in your body, so you can work and stress less, love yourself, and feel alive again.

How To Boost Your Resilience To Become A Happier and More Fulfilled Woman By Claire Corbett

n the new world we find ourselves facing changes beyond our personal control that have impacted our small businesses in a big way. Many of us have frozen in terror as a large part of our revenue stream has suddenly disappeared. If you like me, panicked and felt paralyzed with fear and hopelessness in the first days, as the reality of the impact of the Covid 19 virus sunk in, keep reading.

Moving from that gripping place of fear to a place of hope and action Have you ever felt in awe of how some women seem to be able to ‘ride the storm’ better than others? Why some come out on top, regardless of how bad things get? Don’t be fooled that this is by chance or indeed, that it is easy. It takes a magical blend of hard work, selfawareness, attitude to stress, peppered with a good dose of optimism. Let’s take a look at the common habits of these resilient women so that we can learn and use their ways as a guide on how we can boost our resilience to become happier, more successful and fulfilled women in business and life.

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Stand your ground Growing up with 4 brothers, I learned early on how to stand my ground, be resilient and tap into my natural source of power. It didn’t happen overnight, this took years of trying, falling and getting up again. I remember learning the hard way, how to choose my battles and deal with disappointment when things didn’t go my way. However, it was not all plain sailing. In my late 20’s, my personal and business life went pearshaped overnight. The company I was working for folded, my 7 year relationship ended and I was not longer happy with my life. I was surprised and disillusioned that my childhood learning didn’t rescue me. I realized that there was more work to do.

The days and weeks that followed, I fought my new reality like an over-tired child that can’t sleep. Then, I slumped into a paralysis of sorts, where I did nothing and stared into space for hours, then something changed, something finally shifted in me. I dug deep, real deep and found a very faint light at the end of the tunnel. Slowly, I got up, got dressed, got on my beloved yoga mat and asked the million dollar question “what now?” The light grew brighter. During what was sometimes a painful process, I started to look inward, which I hadn’t done much before this. I began asking questions like, “what makes me happy”, “where is my passion” and “what can I do to build my life back up”. At this point, I realized that the way forward involved accepting and, dare I say embracing, my new reality and still come out with something good, meaningful. Looking back now, this was a couple of the most enriching years of my life. I learned how to re-frame what I perceived as failure, whilst developing invaluable skills such as selfawareness, relying on my intuition more and prioritize where I put my energy and focus.

â&#x20AC;&#x153; Adapt to change As I got back on my feet, I moved continents, prioritized my family, changed careers, became my own boss and most importantly learned to thrive and adapt in turbulent times. Over the years, I became really curious about how we can develop these life and business skills of being resilient, optimistic and brave, especially in work where women have to work in challenging, often male dominated environments. Through my research and case studies, I uncovered some very interesting facts that shattered some of pre-conceived conceptions. You are not born with resilience, you learn resilience. I discovered, we need to learn the adult version of resilience, in order to successfully navigate the challenging terrain of modern life. How do you continue to boost your resilience in turbulent times, like a global pandemic, slump in our business, missed promotion or personal crisis, like loss of a loved one or divorce? Read on for some of my guidance below.

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Be kind to yourself The first step is to acknowledge what is going on. Denial is tempting and often a coping mechanism but believe me, it doesn’t increase your resilience and reality will surface one way or another. If we ignore our reality, suffering comes… eventually. So, as painful as it is, acceptance is the first major step to getting back on top. Be kind and give yourself time to accept what’s happened or what’s happening right now.

Get clarity on your Purpose The next stage involves figuring out your priorities and values, which, like your life, ebb and flow. Use them as your roadmap to get clear about your purpose and become more resilient. Stay in touch with your core values.

Focus on what you have Refocus is the next phase. Shifting focus to what is good or going well in your business and life is a great way to re-frame your current situation. Be thankful for the clients you do have, the kind colleagues in your company or your adorable child or pet that makes you heart melt. This refocus will make you stronger and motivate you to go on.

Allow yourself to dream My favorite phase of this process is reenergizing. This is about ‘blue sky thinking’. Remove all barriers and negative self-talk. Allowing ourselves to dream and think outside the box opens the door to the possibilities.

Here’s where the magic happens. Be brave and take action. Now this is your time to use your new resilience skills, weather the storm and take positive action. The tough times gives us a chance to sharpen our resilience skills, refocus and adjust our sails!

About the writer: Claire Corbett is based in Zurich. Originally from Ireland, has lived in the US, France, the UK and now Switzerland. With a vast start-ups experience in the Silicon Valley and corporate banking, Claire is the founder of Golf Morocco and Right Point, and is helping other entrepreneurs to adapt their business in this time of change.

Parents & Quarantine: What Is It About Teenagers That I Just Don’t Get? By Annette Ebbinghaus

ovid 19 has affected each of us in different ways, while in self isolation. For families with teenagers you may be experiencing an increase in push back about the “rules”, high emotions that seem to come out of the blue or watching them make breakfast for lunch, and finding the WiFi extremely wobbly at times. If you are working and managing school schedules quarantine could really be testing your fortitude. What is actually going on in my teenager’s brain? Their body seems fully developed and their brain has to catch up. It is one of the reasons adolescents live more in the moment, act impulsively and take risks. The adolescent brain has an amazing capacity to learn. This is due to the teen brain having more neurons and excitable synapses (gray matter) than it ever will again. It is like having an overgrown hedge of gray matter. The brain begins to prune the hedge when puberty begins and continues until your teen is 25 to 30 years of age. This pruning happens during sleep and is why teenagers need 9 to 10 hours of sleep each night. Signals in the brain pass through what is called the myelin sheath (white matter), a protective fatty layer protecting the neurons in the brain. In adolescents this layer is about 80% developed where signals take longer to move around the pre-frontal cortex where judgment, decision making, inhibitory control, assessing danger, empathy, understanding consequences, and goal setting all take place. Photo by Anthony Tran

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@anthony.fotography

Think of white matter as the brain’s WiFi system. If the WiFi signal is weak and you’re online streaming your signal gets stuck causing you start to lose interest in the show or the plot. This is why quick decision making can be challenging in teens and why situations can go from being awesome to out of control in a matter of seconds. When you ask your teen “What were you thinking?” the answer is, they were not. The limbic brain, referred to as the seat of emotions and the cross roads of the brain is fully developed in the adolescent. This is where the amygdala are located. The amygdala are the oldest part of the brain and their main concern is survival. When we are under “perceived threat” the amygdala activates our body’s stress response. The overly excitable adolescent brain combined with increased hormone secretion and the lack of rational brain development is like driving a car with a fully functioning gas pedal and a half-installed set of brakes. This leads to adolescents craving intense experiences be it; social media, extreme sports, romantic relationships, experimenting with drugs. Combine this with the fact that adolescent brains have more dopamine and cannabinoid receptors than adults, it is easier for teens to become addicted to substances or form unhelpful longer-term habits. The way the adolescent brain works is amazing and it does not set up excuses for them. Our understanding of their brain helps us to help them on their road to adulthood. How does this impact us during quarantine you ask? Your adolescent is used to having a certain amount of freedom and time away from the family when they are at school. They might feel like they are under a microscope in our current situation. Teens are social and their relationships with peers and other adults helps their development. Remember, their brain is all about individual survival and pleasure seeking. Below is a list of tips for getting the most out of quarantine with your teen. If you have an adolescent that is showing signs of depression, seems overly concerned with Covid or is cutting themselves off from friends or you suspect substance abuse, seek professional help.

TAKE THE PRESSURE OFF! Give everyone time to not be productive. It gives the brain some time to reset and that is when we can access our creativity and ponder life itself.

STRUCTURE Humans need some form of routine. It is what relaxes the amygdala in the limbic brain and the teenagers is already super charged. Work with your teen to support them setting up routines for themselves.

FUN & CONNECTION Schedule time for fun and social connection everyday. Adolescents are tribal and they need to check in with their tribe regularly which will keep the dopamine receptors happy and fed. Ask them what they think is reasonable.

FAMILY TIME Give everyone the opportunity to suggest some family activities with no judgments. Set the ground rules ahead of schedule about phone use during family time.

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SLEEP Now is your chance to help them get those 9 hours of sleep. Allow your teens to sleep as long as possible before online classes begin. CHORES Use this opportunity to teach them how to cook, include them in housework and yard work and do not expect them to be as thorough as you are. These are teaching moments, not pressure moments. RELAXATION & REFLECTION To truly switch off and let the amygdala really rest, I suggest practicing a form of meditation. It can be Sophrology, Mindfulness or other meditation practices. This time off helps us be more creative, solve problems quicker, strengthens our immune system and can smooth out the release of hormones and emotions. EXERCISE The dopamine and endorphins that are produced from exercise are the only drugs your body really needs. You can make this a fun little competition or it can be a ritual family walk after dinner, a bike ride, hula hooping, use the stairwell in your apartment building and see how long it takes it to you climb the equivalent of a nearby mountain peak, skip, set up an obstacle course, With exercise it is just like Nike says â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just do Itâ&#x20AC;?!

About: Annette Ebbinghaus is an ASCA certified Master Sophrologist as well as a Hypnosis and NLP Practitioner, Mindfulness and Cardiac Coherence Coach working with adolescents and adults since 2008. Her professional life progression went from MSc Civil Engineer building bridges, MBA working in industry and academia to a complete shift to mind and body health when she became a mother while living in Singapore. Her signature work is teaching adolescents techniques to support their mental and emotional health.

9 Ways to Balance Your Sleep Cycle and Stay Focused While in Self- Isolation ByAnandi

t may seem like a dream working from home, but it can also become very stressful when there’s no structure. When working from home, it’s important to create rhythm and rituals that support balance, well-being and sleep. It’s tempting to be disorganized, stay in your pajamas and simply get nothing done.

Avoid home jet lag Keep bedtime and get up time the same as if you were going out to work. This will keep your sleep cycles balanced and you’re more likely to wake up feeling refreshed. Chopping and changing your ritual will create a type of ‘home jet lag’! Going to bed one day at midnight, the next day at 10pm, then 1am, will play havoc with your sleep cycles. You’ll likely to get pulled out of a deep sleep by your alarm clock which will make you feel groggy for the first few hours of the day. This is called ‘sleep inertia’. However, if your body is used to sleeping between 10pm and 6am, it will adjust your sleep cycles so you wake up practically without an alarm from a light sleep. When you wake up naturally from light sleep, you’ll feel refreshed and ready for the day.

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Start your day with meditation or yoga This might sound scary if you’ve never done either. However, yoga doesn’t have to mean standing on your head or sitting for hours in lotus pose. It can be just simply sitting and watching your breath. This will immediately calm your nervous system and refresh your mind. Try at least 15 minutes in the morning before you look at your phone or your computer.

Finish your day with a wined down In order to sleep well, your mind needs to slow down. You won’t sleep well if your mind is still busy. Working on your computer or surfing the internet will inhibit the release of your sleep hormone melatonin. Dim the lights, turn off everything off instead. Do something relaxing like reading or listening to a meditation.

Create a beautiful work space Make sure your work space is tidy and remove clutter. If possible have your desk near a window so that you can open the window on a nice day. Make sure it’s freshly dusted, light some incense in the morning to create a nice energy or even a scented candle. This will encourage focus and creativity.

Plan your day with your top three priorities At the end of every day, plan your priorities for the next day. This will keep you focused and you’ll have a feeling of achievement when you tick them off as done. If you wander through your day, with no priorities, you’ll feel like you’re not achieving anything.

Eat fresh healthy food and cut the stodge In order to stay positive, feel energized and sleep well, you need to pay attention to your diet. Sugar will rob you of your energy, give you brain fog and create inflammation in the body. Focus on fresh vegetables and organic food if possible. Drink plenty of water and watch the wine!

Practice gratitude Have a gratitude journal. Gratitude keeps the mind positive and improves mood. You’ll be nicer to be around!

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Have work time and off time Set up your day and week where you have work time and off time. Working at home often means you get nothing done, or your work spills over into the evenings and the weekends. With no travel, you should be able to get more done in less time!

Work on yourself This is a great time to work on yourself. Check out inspirational speakers or inspiring books to improve your mindset and inspire your contemplation! I recommend Jo Dispenza, Deepak Chopra and Anthony Robbins.

About the writer: Anandi is the creator of ‘Sleepology® which is designed to resolve sleep issues using a specific methodology using principles done in a particular order. Anandi is an Ayurvedic consultant, NLP practitioner, Senior yoga teacher and teacher trainer and has been in the wellness field for 30 years. She’s also the author of ‘Breathe Better Sleep Better’. Anandi has appeared in the press all the major glossies including Cosmopolitan, Women’s fitness, Psychologies, Daily Mail, In the Moment Magazine, Spirit and Destiny and the London Evening Standard.

A Girls Confessions ABOUT

Simple Living, Self Love Adversity

by Sarah Kopinsky

hear more people focus on simple living, self love, resources, resilience, confusion and the power of connection during this high level of adversity. The chaos, suffering and great pain, for me, unleashed many unexamined and sometimes dark parts of my own personality and made me think and write a lot about our collective (dis)functioning. When I handle what I find and do not like about myself, or the results I now face as the result of my own thinking, beliefs and actions with grace and calm, I learn much things that help me connect and honor others differences a lot more. I tend to spend more time rethinking how I used and plan to spend my existing resources. Here are some things that I learned from speaking and working with the people I most admire who helped synthesize some (hard) lessons from this experience:

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Setting the bar right and letting go Many people can experience a strong routine change and shift of their relational and life paradigms. There are so many aspects which now, almost by force, have most of us take effective and very directed action. I rethink the roots of some persistent issues, the ways in which I behaved and responded and how present I really am in all parts of my life. What I take, do not take, and should take to heart, is seen a bit differently. The strong physical social and health changes have led me to re-examine my competitive nature to constantly perform on high levels and reinvent the ways in which I show up to my loved ones and for myself. I learn that I can let go of what I really must and can finally let more things be.

It gave me a chance to set the bar right, where it used to set very high or lower than I could honestly handle and it helped me find out that I â&#x20AC;&#x153;failâ&#x20AC;? less than I thought I would and became, somewhat, more productive and useful. I know that many high achievers are looking for opportunities to help their businesses and their relationships survive this very strange reality and without much certainty, and I admit that changing your energy, thought and emotions, is really hard when feeling this level of unfamiliarity, is really hard. I hear more people focus on simple living, self love, resources, resilience, confusion and the power of connection during this high level of adversity. The chaos, suffering and great pain, for me, unleashed many unexamined and sometimes dark parts of my own personality and made me think and write a lot about our collective (dis)functioning. When I handle what I find and do not like about myself, or the results I now face as the result of my own thinking, beliefs and actions with grace and calm, I learn much things that help me connect and honor others differences a lot more.

Letting things work for me, rather than control who I become Being in constant control does not always feel like it allows for much room to change perspectives and change how I spend most of my time. I spend so much time on the go, traveling, reaching, so much time thinking about solving problems, and most my time working, so I can reach goals faster. When I now notice that to be sucked out of my routines and experience a total loss of some aspects I used to control, I tend to focus more on the things I was not noticing anymore. I see how many women are demonstrating enormous resilience, patience, clarity of mind and hard work to help themselves grow through this time, and that many of us also -somehow- find it in them, to help others where possible.

Changing the way we handle our own space and othersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; through the power of acceptance I learned that I may also choose to evolve and grow and face things head on, instead of (literally) going someplace else, because now I cannot escape my personal environment. This experience can require us to train the way we handle our own pain and react to the pain of others. If in the past I viewed others, their work or my entire relationships as the problem instead of the situation and focus on conflict, now I prefer to finally have those real talks, dare myself and others, and try and solve any conflict in ways that are beneficial for my own personal development. Allowing myself and others their own space, freedom and autonomy and better understanding the importance of my own and each others need for individuality and boundaries has become a though lesson I needed to do better at.

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This is where my self-care, self-love and development may have become lacking and I find myself considering how and where my boundaries and levels of assertiveness are and how I feel about this and the results that it manifested. To guard my own sense of well being and desire I also need to feel that I have enough space and air between myself and others and learn to ask for it and give it, and point it out in areas that I feel I miss it. I became more aware that I tended to be silent and kind and lacked a transfer of my own business skills into my personal life when it came to uncomfortable situations and behaviors and rejections from others. Where I would speak up to the highest person in the company hierarchies and advise them, I would in my personal life avoid conflict and focus on harmony, and let things in a lot more without questioning their criticism about who I am and questioning how to address their possible projections.

Understanding I have underestimated the value of simple things in life This is obviously a world old cliche, and reason for agony in many generations who tried to enhance our levels of wisdom by installing more wisdom in us, but the truth still is that I tend to see some things as small when they are most important. Now that I am forced into simpler living I rely- again- on the power of connection in adversity. I, and we all, greatly depend on our social bonds and its messages and the shared information since prehistoric times. These are the tools designed for our evolution and survival. And we have not done bad by using it, until nowâ&#x20AC;Śknowledge is wired in our brains, body, and instinct. We used to protect each other from danger and treats by attaching great meaning to these messages. This is the reason that I, and many others are so very sensitive to rejection, but also to affection, and most of us have come to ignore much of it since the time of the industrial evolution. The global crisis we are now in could be found to restore a sense of (inter)dependency and make us aware of our high social needs. I, undeniably realized that we need each other, and that our collective wants could be found to be very simple and maybe even primitive, but of great meaning. Being seen, heard, helped, felt and present with and for each others lives functions as an antidote for much pain, fear, anger, frustration, and confusion for me.

Connecting with nature and making meaningful connections with self and others in time of crisis I find a deep desire now, more than ever to connect with nature and I appreciate it a lot more. I find myself wanting to connect with my own and each others natures more. We have been so very destructive towards nature, its animals and life and are now learning that it is not only wrong, but that it absolutely backfires. I often forget that we too, are part of nature and that we put out into it at some point can reach us.I now feel that nature wants us to start treating it differently because that the way we collectively consume, behave and live is harming us all. We are interconnected but have also become accustomed to over-consumption and success and forgot to look over to the things which appeared to be of less importance. I find myself talking about shared problems, realizations and emotions with others because we are in the exact same crisis. Although keeping the distance is critical, many people around me also seem to find so many ways to really connect with each other in much more meaningful ways and try to help each other out.

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Activating Resilience and appreciating the strength of talent in our global community I have experienced tremendous outreach in groups and on social media where I was asked to help in some projects or by doing something for others, and I was so touched by the stories of how resilient and strong and caring people were, in spite of being in such an uncertain experience themselves. Many people connected with me and shared ideas and solutions and helped me understand that the financial and health pressure is hurting many and causing great problems. We are massively reaching out to each other and connecting with people we would normally never speak with. Maybe this is because there is more time to notice the needs and the precious talents of others that (virtually) surround us. I became more interested in what others are doing and in their stories and identities, in what drives them and I find myself becoming more real and genuinely interested. Maybe there is a greater desire in many of us to embrace and look after each others well being, success, creativity, and true desires and needs, because we understand that we are in the same boat. This situation can inspire thoughts about what we would like to keep, change, and leave in our lives. Thoughts about how our active interconnectedness is helping us make things happen faster than we might have experienced before, or how it can be used to change and stop collective dysfunction, outer pollution and destruction.

Understanding that many of my resolutions were just about me flirting with possibility, not real desires because I did not make them into concrete and properly scheduled plans. 184 | RICH WOMAN AMERICA MAGAZINE | Winter 2020/21

My focus on personal developmental areas and evolving takes much power, discipline, dedication, and patience. I still work, but do have more time now, and it goes by regardless, but I am now able to clearly see that even when time is made available, some resolutions were never real plans or priorities. This is because I never really wanted them, and they â&#x20AC;&#x201C; very likely- never originated from and for myself in the first place. For me this meant asking for guidance on areas of struggle or where stagnation is still experienced, and where I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seem to change or get the same experiences and results over and over again because I am doing something wrong or not changing something I should. I analyzed it and concluded that these resolutions were only temporary flirts with fantasy and a curiosity for possibilities, from the very start. I desired and lusted an image I had about my ideal self and my true essence for a moment, but even if I would reach it, it is still not congruent with who I really am and want to become. This is a time where many with me will likely separate from our own falsehoods and attach greater meaning to becoming closer to our own truths. For me this time now results into taking greater action and making structured scheduled plans which help me make those genuine lifelong connections which

help me on my own true path. I choose to invest and dedicate much more resources, time, and power in making big steps in my life, physical health, the work I choose to do, friendships, romance and in my family and goals. I feel that this experience finally freed me from a lot of thoughts about myself and others which were really mostly illusions and it helped me realize and remove the things that weren’t really good for me. If anything, I now see that they would have ended in some level of disaster or ended up making me very unhappy. My friend tells me: “Want only that which is good for you”. And I realized that the things we might think we desire, aren’t in our lives because we know they aren’t good for us. I freed myself from those long held beliefs and ideas that were mostly created and believed for me and installed in me by others. It seems to me that I am not alone in experiencing the results of this time as not just being physically separated to protect others and myself, but also as a time where I separate myself from many other things which never served me to get closer to what does and truly belongs with me.

We can’t help but notice the unified rise of global respect for those whose work puts them on the front line and away from their families There has been massive sacrifice on behalf of the true global hero’s whose service is going on for a very long time now. Many have not properly rested, seen their families, and worked incredibly hard without end to help us stay as safe and healthy as possible and to help those in need. We owe them a tremendous deal and we owe them to stay unified and respectful to one another. This situation has had a disastrous toll on families, business, live and health in the lives of many who we love and love us the most. Although there is much light still left in the darkness, these are undeniably hard times. If we can help, by connecting and reaching out, we should. If not now, when?

About the writer: Gabriela Zoltakova Hjorter is a former Medical Nurse and Spa Director for top luxury hospitality brands worldwide, turned Energy Medicine Practitioner, (RMT) Reiki Master Teacher and Founder of The Wellness Tribe. With over 20 years’ experience in the world of wellness, spirituality and well-being in USA, Asia, Africa and Europe she brings an innovative approach applying scientific & ancient healing modalities to harmonizing overall health and wellbeing in your personal and professional life. Gabriela is very active in her local community in Switzerland and globally, facilitating well-being workshops, gatherings, Reiki courses and healing retreats for women. With her extensive Spa management expertise with top brands hospitality brands, she also provides guidance to a Wellness Practitioners helping them with practical know how to apply their gifts in the industry.

How To Keep A Journal, Free Your Mind And Take Control Of Your Mental Health By Zeenat Noorani

s we are returning to life, I keep writing in my journal which helped free my mind and take control of my mental health during lockdown. If you would had told me 4 months ago that we would be living in this surreal situation, fighting Covid-19 pandemic globally, I might not have believed you. A horror movie brought to reality! In such a short space of time, the virus has utterly transformed the employment landscape and people’s lives worldwide. But history taught us again that during crisis, there have been winners and losers. With billions of people in self-isolation, mental health is rapidly sweeping the globe. We are social creatures and we have evolved as a species that is hardwired to interact with others, more so in times of stress.

Resilience, technology and the mental health lessons Iearned during lockdown There are some days when I feel on top of the world and empowered but there are other days when I feel helpless, wanting to crawl under my duvet. And that’s okay to not feel okay and have a bad day. While revisiting the lockdown period, my greatest win is learning to stop feeling ashamed that I wasn’t feeling positive and that things aren’t going great. There is a lot of strength having the courage to be vulnerable, to be authentic and true to yourself.This one lesson has changed my life and the way I do business. I experienced resilience at a whole new level and while it always has been a huge part of my life, I feel so much better knowing that I passed the test.

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My business has taken a real hit, from losing all my clients to zero new client sign-ups. For me it was swim or sink- I chose to swim and explore the different seas, and I have Technology to be thankful for not sinking! However, lockdown left me spending much more time than usual on technology. Not Great! I began to notice changes in my mental and physical health, mood, sleep, focus and productivity. This is not a healthy nor productive way of living. It’s draining! Newsflash, if you start to feel overwhelmed by the constant presence of technology, it’s a sign to step back. Begin with small changes in what you are doing.

Stop feeling ashamed of your feelings and start keeping a Journal to free your mind and take control of your mental health Looking after my mental health and wellbeing comes with maintaining healthy sleep patterns and eating habits, both generating more energy and focus overall. Sleep is vital. I am so bad with my sleeping patterns but by seeking support has been a life changer. Developing a regular relaxing bedtime routine should be a non-negotiable part of your life. A good idea is to stop watching any screens at least an hour before bedtime and avoid mental over-stimulation from blue light from your screens/TV. Also, it is a good time to enjoy the things you like, such as reading a book (not on a tech device), have a warm soothing drink (non-alcoholic), a bath, listen to music or meditate or write in your journal. As I am sharing my notes with you, I am

looking at my journal, and if I would recommend anything for your mental health, is keeping a Journal. Keeping a journal is a simple but effective tool which can be so uplifting while reflecting on your circumstances and reevaluating your options moving forward. When committing yourself to writing down what is happening in your world, you unlock your feelings and allow your mind to flow. It is amazing how only 15 minutes in your daily routine could give you the clarity you need on the 70,000 thoughts going on in your head daily, and declutter your mind. Keeping a journal is great for both your personal life and business. Keeping a journal helps you acknowledging your thoughts and feelings, even the most difficult ones like anxiety, grief, anger or boredom. Find a quiet place sitting with those thoughts and feeling acknowledging when and where y come up in the body. Perhaps you could even share what’s going on with someone you trust to help with the process and move you through them. Taking a new perspective on negative thoughts and feelings could bring a more positive outlook and multitude of positive effects on our mental and physical well-being, helping you to focus and re-energize. Writing in your journal is not about recording your thoughts and feelings, or chronicle every last thing that happens to you during the day. Feel free to unleash your creativity, doodles and day dreams about being married to Prince Charming are allowed! Creativity helps you unwind, unleash it!

About the writer: Zeenat Noorani Resilience Well-being Coach, NLP, Hypnotist, Kinetic Shift, Mindfulness, EFT Practitioner, Speaker, Mentor &Author Helping you to “Empower Your Mind To Have The Life You Desire”

Is Yoga a solution for Fertility? Valentina Salonna on Yoga, Science and Acceptance

alentina Salonna has been on the road to self-discovery all her life and has managed to find peace with herself after embracing all she can. She believes that having a deep understanding of the practice can aid a person in every aspect of their life, from physical and mental health to grounding and awareness. She gives an account of her beliefs regarding yoga, as well as her fertility awareness understandings, to further make people aware of the tremendous benefits it can provide to everyone and anyone who is willing to accept it as a lifestyle.

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Yoga is not only a matter of helping posture, but also a way of understanding and managing our own overall health.

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What inspired you to create your business? Ever since I was young, yoga has been a big part of my life. My father always said to me, “Valentina, you are born to teach the essence of yoga!”, and I started to think, what if he was right? The moment to structure my knowledge and to receive an official acknowledgment of my yogic skills had come, so I signed up to E. S. Y. (Ecole Supérieure de Yogathérapie). I remember my first years of teachings in Epenex with a funny group of young curious scientists; they inspired me a lot! What problems are you solving? How does it work? I work predominantly with women and couples all over the world as a yoga therapist, sexologist and fertility awareness counselor. My goal is to open up man and womankind to a new way of understanding yoga therapy, and I am creating a new way of conceptualizing it, bringing together scientific credibility and natural fertility. I am part of the change I want to see in the outside world and therefore, share my experiences with you. I encourage people to remember that if there is no enemy within, the enemy outside can do us no harm. We do not have to be perfect to be what we want, to do what we want, to have what we want. Who are the people that could benefit? Women and couples who want to come back to a conscious sexuality and a healthy approach to fertility, stopping the side effects of birth control pills or any other artificial/mechanic contraceptives. I work with both men and women who want or need to make a difference on this planet before they leave it. Also, I help couples receive the gift of giving birth naturally, especially when there is no more hope according to modern medicine.

What are the challenges in making the public aware of your work? It can be challenging to make the public understand that yoga is not only a matter of helping posture, but also a way of understanding and managing our own overall health. Something I emphasis during my workshops and conferences is that for me, fertility awareness is much more than simply a method for natural contraception or a contraception aid. It is, in all respects, a lifestyle. Socially and anthropologically, we are living in a very interesting and innovative time! In human history, the correct, consistent and reliable practice of the symptothermal method is very recent, as interest in the woman’s cycle has arisen only recently. Women themselves haven’t focused on themselves as individuals for a long time. Who is one person that you admire the most? Why? For me, it’s Nelson Mandela – interestingly, not a woman. I greatly admire how a human being can remain human despite his role, his job, his convictions, his limits and his resources. His power of forgiveness and his capacity to remain humble and above it all, despite the injustice is more than an appropriate example for me. It is a reminder to stay worthy and enough, no matter what life throws at you. Mandela’s life is, to me, a tool to manage the infinite; a way to stay fertile and available to life’s proposals, even when your freedom is taken. About: Valentina Salonna is originally from Italy and is currently in her final year of studying for her PhD in Life Sciences, “Yoga Therapy and Mindfulness”, at the University of Lausanne. Her field of expertise is yoga, and both in the frame of this discipline and the art of living, Valentina became an entrepreneur, a yoga teacher and therapist, a sexologist and an expert in fertility awareness and natural conception.

What Does Your Nail Polish Say About Your Health By Sandra Deira

very week I look at the weather forecast for the coming 7 days. Will I get to enjoy the sun, wear sandals and a ravishingly blue color nail polish? Or will it be a shiny nude because it will be raining cats and dogs, my toes will be stuffed away and I will not get to wear one of my favorite bright color dresses? Sometimes I wonder how did women chose their favorite color nail polish half a century ago? Going to the cinema in those days was a real treat. Women around the world were inspired by famous Hollywood actresses to paint their nails bright red. Sophia Loren, Brigitte Bardot and Marilyn Monroe come to mind. Did Marilyn imagine that her beautiful red nails will become a world class inspiration for women? What else didn’t she know about nail polish? Would she ever guess that nail polish presents a considerable health risk? California’s Department of Toxic Substances Control has proposed listing nail products containing toluene to be under it’s Safer Consumer Products program. The chemical toluene, a toxin that may cause birth defects and developmental problems in children of pregnant women who have had extended exposure. They also looked for dibutyl phthalate (DBP), which has been linked to birth defects in studies involving lab animals, and formaldehyde, a carcinogen. Then there is Triphenyl phosphate, or TPHP, a suspected endocrine-disrupting chemical, which is commonly used to make plastics and as a fire retardant in foam furniture. And if you wear nail polish, it could be in your body too.

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Researchers at Duke University tested the urine of 26 women who had recently painted their nails and found evidence of TPHP in every participant. Evidence of the chemical in the women’s urine increased sharply after they applied the nail polish. TPHP is listed on the ingredient labels of a wide array of nail polishes now on the market. Out of more than 3,000 nail products in EWG’s Skin Deep database, half disclose the use of TPHP.

Could nail polish pregnancy and children?

affect

As a mother-to-be, prior or immediately after hearing that you are pregnant, you will naturally make a few healthy decisions; you will stop smoking, stop drinking, take more rest, you will pay more attention to your diet. Not only for yourself, but especially for your child. Would this also mean that you would have to give up your well-groomed nails for a while? Absolutely not. However, considering all the possible toxin material in your nail products you would want to put in some effort to do some research and pay close attention to the quality and content of your products. There are nail care products and brands with beautiful lacquers who will not get in the way of you and your baby’s health. Look for brand quality labels like the Big 3Free, Big5Free and up to even the Big10Free which will identify how free of harmful chemicals your product really is. Your nail polish must be free of formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, foluene, camphor, TPHP, parabens, xylene, ethyl tosylamide, dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and led

About: Sandra is the Global Director of Health Tribe and loves helping people achieve their business goals, optimize their knowledge of general health and improve their healthy lifestyle. After completing her studies at the Waltham Forest College in London and earning her degree at the University of Applied Science in Amsterdam, she has spent the past 30 years working in Recruitment, HR and Telecom industries gaining experiences in areas such as commercial sales, management, communication, and support roles.

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There are nail care products and brands with beautiful lacquers who will not get in the way of you and your baby’s health. Nail Industry, Economy and Business Market analysts predict that the global market of nail polish will represent a value of 9 billion dollars by the end of 2019. A recent survey found that female respondents in the UK spent on average £112.65 per month on their appearance. Nail-care services account for an estimated 10% of the overall beauty and hairdressing industry revenue of £3.7bn in the UK alone. Nail-care services prices range from £10 for basic nail-varnish services to £100 for permanent nail extensions using bio gels. Exponentially nail polish is the fastest rising and most sold product in the cosmetic industry. Nails Salons are the 7th most popular type of start-up business. A never-ending inspiration, new nail bars open daily and ambitious entrepreneurs promote their brand, products, services and business to attract their ideal target audience. The rising demand for nail polish especially among young people contributes to the strong sales increase. About 91% of girls between 9 and 17 years old use some form of nail polish or other nail care products. When you let this sink in for a while, one question might come to mind. Who is actually buying the nail polish for a child? Usually it is their mum, their grandmother or friends and family. Perhaps you could share this article with them!

Mary Barra

CEO, General Motors Mary Teresa Barra is an American businesswoman who has been the chairman and CEO of General Motors Company since January 15, 2014. She is the first female CEO of a major automaker. On December 10, 2013, GM named her to succeed Dan Akerson as chief executive officer, and prior to that, Barra served as the executive vice president of Global Product Development, Purchasing, and Supply Chain at General Motors. She is No. 5 in Forbes’ ‘The World's 100 Most Powerful Women’. Under her tenure GM ranked No. 1 on the 2018 Global Report on Gender Equality. It was one of only two global businesses that have no gender pay gap.

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Women & society

Changing the World: Unlocking our Full Human Potential by Susie Poole

e exist in two worlds, the external world, what we see and touch, and our internal world, our thoughts, emotions, and self-care. These two worlds are constantly interacting and shaping each other. The external world can consume our lives – the demands of work and family, rushing through each day, conforming to social norms, trying to keep up with everything, leaving little time for ourselves. We tend to believe the external world drives and dominates our internal world. And here’s where it gets interesting. Scientists now believe, and are proving, that our internal world significantly influences the external world. In other words, when we feel valued, respected, loved, and supported, we feel nurtured. And it is this nurturing that is the key to unlocking our full human potential. Nurturing shapes more than our daily behavior – it shapes our internal world for life. Before we reach the age of seven, our brains are operating at low frequency, like hypnosis, yet developing rapidly: still absorbing without constantly questioning. What we take in becomes our belief system and how we speak to our children becomes their inner voice. From age seven, the developing belief system drives our subconscious mind – our behavior, our perception of ourselves and the world, our ability to connect and form meaningful relationships, even the circumstances we are drawn to in life. When we nurture our children, delight in them, laugh and play together, they learn to delight in being themselves and in life. We have three “brains”: the head, the heart and our gut. They each have their own intrinsic nervous systems and neurons, and can take on information, process it, store it, change and adapt. Together they span what we think and what we feel. The head is our source of thinking and rational processing; it makes meaning of things. The heart is our source of processing emotion and home of our values, from which we connect with others; and the gut is where we park safety and self-preservation, courage, and motivation. According to renowned executive coach and mentor, Brian Gorman, all too often business leaders are either disconnected from their heart and gut brains, or if they are connected, they still screen 194 | RICH WOMAN AMERICA MAGAZINE | Winter 2020/21

messages from the heart and gut through their head, because rational thought must win at all costs. They veer away from depending on gut instinct and rule emotion out of the equation. Conversely when we consider some of the most inspiration entrepreneurs, innovative thinkers and leaders around the world, it is clear that the “other two brains” the heart and gut, have been a major influence on the decisions they’ve made and subsequent actions they’ve taken. A name that is probably popping into your head right now is Sir Richard Branson. On a local level I would also put our own inspiring Carla Kaufmann of Get Diversity as a “three brain thinker”. Effective leadership requires all three brains, especially during times of change. When we connect to all three brains, it can improve clarity, create a connection and evoke conviction. At a corporate level, learning when to utilize each of the three brains and which ‘brain’ Is best suited to deal with any given situation is increasingly being recognized as a powerful tool for effective decision-making or driving change. If all three of these brains – head, heart and gut are equally valued in how we think and make decisions, then emotion and nurturing can also play a key role in driving change and optimizing our lives. When we feel connected and ‘nurtured’, for our brains, which evolved to keep us alive in the wilderness, this equals safety. And when we feel safe, this allows our brains to be engaged, we become more productive, innovative, creative and we reach out to others, optimizing team work and collaboration. Leaders who connect and nurture relationships spur innovation and productivity. At a personal level, using all three brains, allows us to fully engaged with our work, our lives, and our full selves. Connecting to our heart provides what we all seek in life: our happiness and well-being. The clearest message from the longest study on happiness of 75 years conducted by Harvard University is: ‘Good relationships keep us happier and healthier. Period.‘ More than money, recognition and fame, it is having relationships with mutual love, appreciation, and a feeling of connection – simply having relationships with heart coherence – that matters most.

So, if our thoughts, emotions and behavior create our reality, how do we create what we want from life? How do we make our world a better place for us and future generations? Neurobiology and epigenetics are telling us that we achieve this through nurturing, being in heart coherence and at a more profound level changing our self-limiting belief systems. Science is finding our belief systems are not fixed for life! There are now ways to re-program these to ones that support us to help us achieve our goals and aspirations. Essentially science is revealing that when we live more from the internally driven world than the externally driven world, this shifts us from a fear-based consciousness to a heart-based consciousness. Living by the externally driven world, we live the Darwinian paradigm that life is about “survival of the fittest”. It assumes that the essence of life is about survival and conjures up the image of the lion chasing us. We are in stress mode. Our fight, flight and freeze mode is activated, driven by fear. Fear closes down our “thinking brains”, eventually numbs the body, disconnecting us from ourselves and others; and ongoing stress can cause all sorts of health problems. In the external world, we are in reaction mode, relying on brute force and physical strength. We are operating at a sub-optimal level.

In the internally driven world, we seek “heart coherence”. This is a highly efficient state in which, according to the Heartmaths Institute, all of the body’s systems work together in harmony, increasing the alignment of our mind, body, emotions and spirit. The process is the object – the enjoyment of life. In the internally driven world, we are at our most powerful when we operate from our imagination and have our mind, body and spirit fully engaged to create a better reality. We are operating at peak performance. Shifting from fear-based external consciousness to a heart-based internal consciousness is not about hugging trees, but rather about elevating humanity to a new level of consciousness to fully realize our human potential. For centuries, women have been disempowered, often dismissed as “too emotional for a man’s world”, limited to the role of nurturer and carer, while men assumed the roles of providers and rule-makers. Thankfully over the last one hundred years or so, the

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women’s movement has been a considerable and persistent force in influencing change. Opportunities for women to step beyond these limitations have increased substantially but sadly, gender-based stereotypes of emotional vs. rational still exist. The women’s movement has been instrumental in changing how society views gender roles, but this has been more focused on the external factors of equality and pay. Nurturing is seen as an emotional task and while appreciated within the family context, it has until recently, been grossly undervalued and seen as a weakness or “soft skill” in the business world. Because of this, insufficient value has been placed on women’s role in nurturing and the valuing of others. When we begin to understand the benefits of nurturing, it becomes clear that this emotional work is not only a woman’s strength, but also has the potential to change the way we as humans live on this planet. The role that nurturing plays in shaping our internal world has an impact on our external world. It comes as little surprise that studies show that firms with women on the executive board are more profitable. Only last year, the Swiss parliament mandated that on publicly traded companies, boards of directors should have better female representation, which will be good for those companies and the Swiss economy. By elevating the importance of nurturing, it opens it up to greater accessibility and alignment with both genders. It frees up men to have greater choice in choosing to be a homemaker or part-time worker and to share in the nurturing role with their partner. Just as valuing nurturing liberates women, it liberates men, giving them permission to fully access their hearts and whole selves to reach their full potential. Where governments mandate paid paternity leave as well as the more traditional maternity leave it further endorses the value placed on nurturing as a powerful influence on how we raise future generations. It recognizes that nurturing need not be solely the domain of women.

Yet despite women’s traditional role as the nurturer, women are neither taught how to, nor encouraged to explore, utilizing caring for others as a significant strength. This secret superpower influences not only the family and the home, but also the workplace, the community, and the very foundations of society. However, nurturing is not just about the gender issue. It is about nurturing ourselves as well as others. Some of the issues we are facing in 2020 – Black Lives Matter, the COVID-19 pandemic and addressing and dealing with the consequence of climate change – all require change. Major change is now our new normal. To manage the challenges of a global pandemic, or to rapidly transition to a postcarbon economy, we need all the benefits that nurturing provides: tapping into our potential for a boost in creativity, innovation, productivity, collaboration with others and effective change

My vision is to help women recognize where our power lies, so we can learn to use our power mindfully, understanding the impact and creating realities we want for ourselves and all of humanity. And when we collaborate, our impact is magnified and multiplied. We can be the drivers of change for the world we want to live in. We are more powerful than we realize.

management. World leaders who have earned some of the highest praise for their responses to the COVID crisis are women, such as Germany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel and New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern. Earlier this year I was delighted to be invited to join the board, in October, of one of Switzerland’s largest women’s business networks, Womenway, as Director of Environment, Social and Corporate Governance. Board-members and executives make up 43% of Womenway’s community. In this role I will be driving a new strategic imperative called “Women Leading the Way” by collaborating with partners, the focus of which is to empower and inspire individual action and collaboration on local and world issues; and to create a nurturing community among Swiss and international women.

About the writer: Susie Poole is a climate change/energy thought leader and an advocate for women empowerment, particularly for leading the transformation to a post carbon and sustainable economy. She is a partner of a global permaculture climate change initiative – 52 Climate Actions, a partnership of 10 International organizations. Together with her role at WOMENWAY, Susie aims to empower women and organizations to create a better today and a tomorrow to look forward to...

Living a Double Life

Fear, Shame, Mental Health Issues and Eating Disorders by Patricia Ordody

iving with mental health issues and addictive behaviors, made me live a double life, to protect my social status, and hide my fears, shame, mental health issues and eating disorders, until

one dayâ&#x20AC;Ś

My truth shall set me free â&#x20AC;&#x201C; which truth is keeping you imprisoned? I am not a health coach, who came from a healthy place. I am a Health Coach who beat the odds of a 17-year battle with an eating disorder, depression and severe anxiety. I was successful on the outside, yet terrified, alone and broken on the inside. This article is not only to honor my personal journey, because I am no longer afraid or ashamed, but also to give hope to those struggling. Be it a bad habit, personal, professional or health challenge, or an addictive behavior to whichever degree, there are many of us who have struggled, who share your pain, who have overcome, who understand. Knowing that can already make a difference. I was always a perfectionist and thought negatively about myself, even though to everyone else I was a happy kid with a great life. The negative thoughts spiraled from anxiety into obsessive compulsiveness at age 10 and at age 16, I developed a severe eating disorder that followed me for the next 17 years, sometimes extreme, sometimes I managed, but I never felt like I could overcome it. There were countless moments of despair. The loneliness, guilt, shame, rejection, fear, and self-hatred that I often experienced is not something I wish upon anyone. Be it anorexia, orthorexia (obsession with healthy eating), bulimia or a mixture of disordered eating, whatever overwhelmed me was numbed by abusing food. Restricting it, shoveling it down, purging it, controlling it, ignoring it, lying

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about it, hiding it, throwing it away, buying excessive amounts of it. Something would trigger me and it was as if a switch went off in my brain. I was on a mission to just focus on food in one of the previously mentioned ways. In my worst episodes, I was in such a state of delirium that whatever happened over the next few minutes, or perhaps hour, was literally a blur when I came to my senses. It was uncontrollable and terrifying, yet often my only way out of feeling whatever it was I thought I would not survive feeling. This is a reality I know I am not alone with. Nevertheless, the tolerance and understanding for eating disorders is low in our society. Alcohol, drugs and gambling are understood as dangerous. For those suffering like I did, food is or was that numbing substance. I was judged for wanting to be skinny, despite my slim frame, and for not being logical. Food is normal, it is necessary. How messed up must I be not to be able to manage this basic need on Maslowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hierarchy? We do not need drugs and alcohol to survive, yet food is constantly in our face. It is part of practically every social setting on a personal and professional level. Being social meant I had to lie, cheat, pretend and hide even more in order for the truth not to rear its ugly head. Being social meant I had to persistently control my addiction in front of others, because my greatest fear was losing face: to have others look at me with the contempt, disgust, hatred, fear and shame that I saw staring back at me in the mirror every day. Especially in Switzerland, where I have lived for the last 14 years, this issue is still shoved under the carpet. Nevertheless, many people struggle with eating disorders, disordered eating and, as in my case, the often related issues of depression, severe anxiety and insomnia to only name a few. Mental health issues, addictive behaviors, or whichever category you want to select, the problems are real and too often kept quiet. I tried every form of support from alternative methods to classical psychology and am still

grateful for all the help, input and inspiration I received. I made progress, but not feeling understood made me doubt if I could be helped at all. Furthermore, I lived a dual life the entire time – successful, competent, social and pretty on the outside versus lonely, depressed, terrified and broken on the inside. I felt like a liar and a fraud. I often wished I could speak to someone who has overcome the illness successfully, but never found anyone around me. Why? Sharing your truth and struggle means letting others know about these real issues no one wants to discuss. Whatever is not understood, real and different is feared and shamed. Opening up means being vulnerable and it means taking responsibility. While I did a lot of work on finding out the cause of my illness, this did not give me a peace of mind. The reality is that the emotions and fears driving my illness were not resolved with a simple answer to a question. Who cares about the “why” when you cannot get through the day? I blamed myself for how and who I was, but this was as useless as blaming someone else, since the outcome is the same: victimization and inaction. It had nothing to do with taking responsibility, but no one told me that, or perhaps I could not hear it since I felt completely alone and not at all understood. I could write a book on the countless ways I tried to cope, improve and recover. Often the process was two steps forward, three back, but there was progress. When I felt like I had come to a good point in my life with a more suitable job, healthier family relationships and friendships, and somewhat stable food habits, things took a turn for the worse. Over three years my health disintegrated and I was shoved into the “burn-out” bucket, because my symptoms made no sense to anyone and to be honest, no one really wanted to take time to take a closer look.

A blessing in disguise What I experienced thereafter is what pushed to become a Health Coach. Getting physically ill to the point of struggling to move, digest or sleep, forced me to slow down, to study, to research, to ask the difficult questions without the help of a doctor, since I had lost hope and had no more strength to seek out anyone else. Getting help and truly taking responsibility are two different things. I had to stop searching for answers outside, thinking “if this…then that,” and do the hard work of taking my anxiety, emotions, traumas, experiences, relationships, habits, thoughts and beliefs apart with the right questions. The process forced me to understand the signs my body has been sending me for so long and to slowly learn to accommodate what I need. Things did not change from one day to the next, but setting goals and taking committed, concerted action every single hour of every day, will lead to progress. I stopped planning one year ahead and focused on getting through hour by hour, day by day. I tried and tested dozens of tools, questions, healthy coping strategies until I was equipped with those that got me through those difficult days. They still show up, but I accepted that an addiction does not disappear. I remain vulnerable, I remain honest. There is still too much shame attached to addictive behaviors and mental health issues, even when someone has beaten the odds, which quite frankly should be celebrated and shared. Today I celebrate and share my success of making the impossible possible, of making my pain my purpose. I had to learn that in order to heal, I don’t need THE truth, I need to honor MY truth. I was scared to share this story for years and realized that as long as fear and shame dominate, I have no real chance to live fully. Fear and shame are prisoners to our souls. My truths may not be yours, but I urge you to honor your own. Which truth is keeping you imprisoned? Discover it, honor it, work through it and allow that process to set you free.

About the writer: Patricia Ordody is a holistic Health Coach supporting busy, career-driven people in making nutritional and lifestyle changes to improve their mental, physical, social and emotional health for a happier and more successful personal and professional life. She founded her company Health is Wealth because of her personal health journey, through which she became passionate about helping anyone with similar struggles related to work-life balance, addictive behaviors, weight management, hormone health, stress management and more. Visit her website to learn more and contact her today for a free discovery call: www.healthiswealth.ch

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Why Evolution Depends on Diversity

By Carla Kaufmann

t some point we have to decide who we want to be. What is important to us and where the journey of our life should lead us. Which doesn’t mean that we will get there. All of our plans are of no use if things turn out differently than you thought. Covid-19 is currently showing us another side of our ability to adapt and change. It is not better, it is not worse, it is different. We have to learn to deal with new circumstances and we have to get involved, and this is the only way we could take the next step into the unknown. I remember a scene with my father where he asked me over and over again: are you sure that your statement is correct as it is? Why do you think it is so, why can’t it be different? – Frighteningly fast I didn’t know what to say to him anymore. I was 12 years old at the time. When I was 16 I had a neardeath experience. I saw myself from above. Wrapped up in pain, as people rushed to me to try and bring me back. Although I didn’t actually decide to come back myself – I did. Why? We don’t question ourselves enough. We don’t question the status quo enough. We live merely to survive, whereas we should create, improve, innovate. We take it for granted that things are how they are. Why? The long-term effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on our economies are not yet foreseeable. It hit our global economic system like a tidal wave and led to lock-downs all over the world. During these trying times, many entrepreneurs are likely to have seen their entrepreneurial existence from above as well. An entrepreneurial near-death experience, so to say, wholly unexpected and unprecedented. – What now? Do you keep on going? And, if so, why? In Switzerland, the Federal Council declared the lockdown on March 16 and upheld it until May 11, 2020, thereby shutting down a large part of economic and social life during almost two months. Only four weeks later, on June 9, 2020, the Swiss parliament passed the “Aktienrechtsreform” bill and thus implemented gender guidelines for listed

companies. Without people noticing. 67% of Swiss public limited companies with more than 50 employees do not have a single woman on their board of directors (Diversity Report 2020). Why? Evolution is not a status; it is a process. We are in the middle of it and we are part of it. What evolution is in nature, innovation is in business. But we have only one primary source of innovation, and that’s our imagination. The imagination of the people we interact with, the people we discuss our challenges with. Evolution has caught us off guard – what innovations do we respond to it with? And, more importantly, how do we imagine to respond to it in the future? Widen your imagination and surround yourself with inspiring people, men and women. If there has ever been a time to enlarge your perspective, to include different, diverse perspectives it’s now. – while we are still alive.

About the writer: Carla Kaufmann has an masters degree in law from the university of St. Gallen. After working for PWC she bought 2010 the online platform companymarket.ch and is ever since working in a highly specialized e-commerce business. In 2012 she also founded the association geschaeftsfrau.ch where especially women get trained in taking over a business.

The Power of Sisterhood- How Women Express Their Human Potential By Gabriela Zoltakova Hjorter

xpressing yourself as a woman could be a tall order and many generations before us were conditioned to believe that women weren’t good enough to lead or bring their unique talent to blossom. During this year we experienced very difficult times but Sisterhood acts as a catalyst and amplifier for women’s human potential. Together we celebrate the cycles of nature and ourselves and feel more connected, relaxed, nurtured and recharged. There is a sense of belonging in Sisterhood that helps us feel balance and grounded, empowered, confident and radiant. It’s Wednesday afternoon, three o‘clock board’s meeting as I rush through the office hallways in my gray suit and red pumps wishing I would have taken the black ones instead this morning. Is the color too much? Too happy and joyful? Are they too feminine? Last thing I want is to appear too feminine and not be taken seriously, again. But, I just love how these red pumps make me feel and lift my mood … maybe no one will notice! The boardroom is flooded with the spring afternoon sunshine and bird song seeping in through the slightly ajar window. I am grateful for this gift of fresh air in that stiff room. The sea of dark suited men colleagues seated around the table. Water bottle, check. Note pad and pen, check. No one makes eye contact as the faces are buried under the deep mask of important busyness. Check.

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DAVID BOWIE

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Wednesday meeting adjourned and I am questioning my silence. I have not let my voice to be heard, once again, even though I truly believed in my heart that my contribution can make this project shine. That’s what hurts the most. The fact that I kept my ideas to myself, and as a result, no one could benefit from my contribution. And you know what else? For not allowing myself to shine my light on me. Ever felt like this in your life? At workplace, with your partner, friends or family? I did. A few years later, I went exploring ancient healing modalities in South East Asia, peeking into Hinduism scriptures in Indian ashrams and delving into Tibetan Buddhist studies with monks in Himalayas. Little I knew that I was on a journey of Self-discovery. Finally, I understood that having a voice is the most powerful act of self-care. Women’s lives are transformed when they decide to step into their feminine power and, against their own vulnerability and limiting self beliefs, are willing to be heard and become visible.

There is a time in your life when you feel everything and everyone. Making meaningful connections with other women and yourself is about cultivating the divine feminine principles that represent the essence of life force and allow me to express my authentic self. In a sisterhood you start learning how to be compassionate of each other’s life journeys, birthing our hopes, together. How do you enter that invisible world of meaningful connections, where the energy becomes palpable, movable, mouldable? When setting intentions and making bold choices in your personal life and carrier, you meet with your highest potential and start aligning with all you want to attract into your life. It wasn’t until I start tapping into higher consciousness, that I became intimately familiar with the quality of our own energy fields. For me, like for all the empaths out there, this was crucial. When you absorb everything (and everyone) you also loose sense of what is “ yours” and what isn’t.

Sharpening my listening skills helped me expand my mindset and consciousness further, and I am now experiencing unlimited personal growth within our sisterhood. Listening is so underrated and yet, it is precisely these golden moments of active listening that make us better women, mothers, wives, daughters, sisters and friends. Holding space for other women by listening without offering advice is deepening our intuition and empowering women to intuitively tap into their own intuitive abilities. Listening I learned how to say NO with love and compassion. We also enjoy infinite skills and talents held within the container of Sisterhood, bringing new ways into being authentic with courage and trust, applying the divine feminine principles of receptivity, openness and collaboration versus competition. A woman is a woman, regardless where she is coming from or where is she going. No matter what a woman does for a living or what title she holds, we all share that essence of womanhood, that innate desire to connect in a meaningful way with each other– to be sisters – share, laugh, cry, support, empower and heal as a force of good. Our wrinkles tell the story of where we have been, what we have experienced and lived through, as women. The leaf of the tree turning rusty color in the autumn, crisp from the sun, doesn’t look back to it’s green days. Every season is beautiful and has that certain magic in it. Find yours beautiful woman.

About the writer: Gabriela Zoltakova Hjorter is a former Medical Nurse and Spa Director for top luxury hospitality brands worldwide, turned Energy Medicine Practitioner, (RMT) Reiki Master Teacher and Founder of The Wellness Tribe. With over 20 years’ experience in the world of wellness, spirituality and well-being in USA, Asia, Africa and Europe she brings an innovative approach applying scientific & ancient healing modalities to harmonizing overall health and well-being in your personal and professional life. Gabriela is very active in her local community in Switzerland and globally, facilitating well-being workshops, gatherings, Reiki courses and healing retreats for women. With her extensive Spa management expertise with top brands hospitality brands, she also provides guidance to a Wellness Practitioners helping them with practical know how to apply their gifts in the industry.

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100 Loving Ways A Girl Can Say Yes! To Happines s A conversation with Personal & Professional Development expert, Dr Novie Johan

he latest World Happiness Report released in March 2020 ranked cities around the world, and showed how the social, urban and natural environments are affecting our happiness, girls and women seeking a happy life. Having someone to count on, having a sense of freedom to make key life decisions, generosity, and trust are some of the factors contributing to happiness. We reached out to Dr. Novie Johan, a London based lifestyle consultant to learn more about living a happy life. “Each day I see 100 loving ways a girl can say yes to happiness. Women need to be happy first”, she says. Dr. Novie Johan has made happiness the focus of her life. An agent of change herself, she believes that all women can love and can transform into happy women through the power of self-love. Here she shares her own experiences, as well as her thoughts on how women can be happy in everyday life. “Health, happiness and success go hand in hand. Whatever we do in life, we are seeking the same thing – desire to be fulfilled and to live a life of contentment.” She started by reflecting on the source of her own happiness, and later on she researched the topic of transformation scientifically. The findings have now been published in one of the top journals in management worldwide: Academy Management of Learning and Education (September 2019): Informal and Incidental Learning in Liminal Space of Extended Independent Travel. Her interest in people’s personal and professional growth and transformation continues to grow, as we are navigating challenging times. Here is her story, and how she lives her life based on her very own principals. What is the most important transformation you experienced? Since I was a child until my early teenage years, my extra-curricular activities were most important to me: I was busy dancing and acting, participating in modeling, operettas, dancing shows, advertisements and voice-overs for children’s and teenagers’ TV shows and audio stories. I really enjoyed all that I did, and I must say I wasn’t very studious at all. Then Sculpted Sleeve Dress by KAREN MILLEN P h o t o b y M i ch e l l e Ju dd

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my mom took me to my first European trip. For the first time, I saw a different world than what I used to know. For two short weeks I was traveling to various European cities. I loved it so much that I found myself inspired to study abroad! When I went back home, I suddenly started to study really hard so I could get good marks. No one, including myself, could understand this sudden change of heart. However, this change led me to study abroad and helped me later on with my academic discipline. On reflection, it was the first big transformation of my life, and it was completely unplanned: I never planned for it, and neither did my parents. Travel inspired me as a young teenager, and after that, life was never the same. What does transformation mean to you? Can it lead to happiness? Each person takes different meanings from their experiences. Throughout my life I have been transformed many times over, each and every time I travel, and each and every time I face new circumstances. Transformation, for me, was always a very positive experience. For that reason, I have always believed in transformation that is positive, is always available, and it is up to us whether we allow ourselves to observe and capture these opportunities to change. For me, transformation is never a heavily loaded word. I change along the way, and every change is natural and almost happens instantaneously throughout my life. We are born to adapt and change. We hear a lot about changing the world, as if it is a distant external goal, and there is a disconnect between ourselves and the change. The truth is that by changing ourselves first, we will inherently change the world. Becoming aware of our ability to transform into better people, makes us happier people. Each one of us is an agent of change.

How do you define an agent of change? Anyone who is comfortable with change internally is an agent of change. I believe that when you allow yourself to be who you truly are, you become your authentic self and it is easier then to embrace change at the pace of its occurring without any interference from the outside. When it comes to personal transformation, change can only happen when you start loving yourself more. I will give you an example. A good friend of mine used to cry on my shoulder about her being unhappy with her body. I couldn’t understand it fully because I think she was beautiful the way she was. She used to be slim, but after a difficult time with her family, she gained more weight and started to hate her body. She wanted her old body back, but even though she had been on a diet, eating healthy, and exercising, she couldn’t release any weight. One day, when we were trying on new dresses, she complained about her body again. I moved her closer to the mirror so she could look at herself up close and asked her to say out loud: “I love myself and my body!”

She couldn’t say those words and big tears started to roll down her beautiful face instead. I continuously encouraged her to express her self-love and self-acceptance. About a month ago, in one of our video calls, she told me: “Surprise!”. And surprise it was: She has lost about 26 kg (from 93 kg to 67 kg) just by doing the same thing I asked her to do, loving herself more! She finally found herself again and is feeling so much happier, as her body started to change for the better and she blossomed. The change continues as we speak, and she is getting her wardrobe ready for the upcoming season! Remember, she said she couldn’t love herself for a long time, ten years of her life, but the moment she decided to face that very challenge and love herself more, she took charge of her own life and made the changes she wanted. I never even told her to change, in fact I accepted and loved her for who she was, but she wanted the change and so she did. This is why I believe in self-love, and how it changes people, but that transformation does occur only when you love yourself. Transformation is happiness. Change is a form of happiness that needs to be shared with the world.

What makes you happy? As a business and lifestyle consultant, I lost count of the ‘aha’ moments and the men and women I helped to be happy. And, THAT makes me happy! I previously have worked in different industries, in a number of countries around the world: from profit to non-profit organizations, from academic work to humanitarian work. Early in my career, in Canada, for instance, I worked with the universities and varying levels of Canadian ministers, councils, and agencies on some interesting projects such as assessing the needs for training and calculating the returns on such investments, and investigating travelers’ behaviors and level of satisfaction as well as their impacts on the economy. Also in Canada, I worked with a large non-profit governmental foundation in Toronto helping the young workforce to start and take off on their career pathway in the retail industry. In the U.K., I have had a few interesting, happy roles such as working with an English men-tee who worked for the Royal Household. I was mentoring him throughout the year, which included his service period during Kate Middleton and Prince William’s wedding, and preparation for one of the Queen’s summer visits to Balmoral Castle in Scotland. More recently, I also personally had one-to-one coaching sessions with a few international finalists of The Queen’s Young Leaders Programme who eventually met the Queen to receive their awards at Buckingham Palace, London. You love helping young people, young entrepreneurs/start-up with their goal alignments and continuous motivations towards success. You worked with the finalists of Social Impact Awards Switzerland over the years. What made you happy? One of the teams I worked with was Cuisine Lab, a non-profit organization supported by the United Nations, who presented at the United Nations Peace Talks at the United Nations Headquarters in Geneva and won 2017 Social Impact Award. I also attended the Social Impact Award Summit that gathered more than 150 winning entrepreneurs from across Europe, the Baltic's, and some African countries to provide them with experts’ feedback about their new start-ups. For the local communities, I have contributed mentoring them when I was in Geneva as well as in London. And, again, that made me happy!

Best diving destinations: Cape Kri – Raja Ampat, Indonesia; Barracuda Point – Sipadan Island; Blue Corner – Palau, Micronesia; Blue Corner – Palau, Micronesia; Thistlegorm – Egyptian Red Sea; Shark & Yolanda Reef – Egyptian Red Sea; The Yongala – Queensland, Australia; Great Blue Hole – Belize; Source www.divein.com

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S i l k S a t i n Ja ck e t b y PAU L E K A | H o t P i n k M i n i A z a e l e a D r e s s B y S E L F - P O R T R A I T | P h o t o b y M i ch e l l e Ju dd

What do you do to maintain a happy work-life balance? I pay attention to what makes me happy. I look at my own routines and schedules and keep myself flexible at the same time. This allows me to focus on health, sports and happiness more seriously. For example, I walk everywhere, and I like to do fun things like: dancing, wall/rock climbing or even ice climbing, and diving, even right now, when there are restrictions on traveling, finding the time for the things I enjoy and value in my everyday life keeps me happy. Spending time communicating with other enlightening people, is nourishing to your inner self. I indulge in connecting with those in the same capacity of mind and heart, and enjoy spending time discussing various topics with them. Personally, I really enjoy spending time working on initiatives that help others, our environment and society, as I feel that I am bringing a positive impact to the people I work with. There are many things that could keep your inner-being healthy, you just need to discover what makes you happy.

Best Eggs Benedict in London: The Wolseley. 160 Piccadilly, St James's, W1J 9EB; The Eggs Benedict Cafe. 224 Merton High St, Wimbledon, SW19 1AU; Holborn Dining Rooms. 252 High Holborn, London WC1V 7EN; Bistrotheque. 23-27 Wadeson St, E2 9DR

Afternoon Tea @ The Savoy, London. Traditional High Tea £75.00, With a glass of Louis Roederer Brut Premier, NV £85.00, with a glass of Deutz Rosé, NV £95.00. Book online: www.fairmont.com/savoy-london/

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You lived and worked in Switzerland, the U.S.A., Canada, the U.K., and Australia, and you have traveled to many other countries too. What is your favorite cuisine? What is your favorite dish? Home is an important place to me. I am a curious mind and I love trying new recipes in the kitchen. Growing up in Indonesia was a blessing, I was surrounded by delicious cuisine with a large variety of dishes. One of my pursuits has always been to sample local cuisine wherever life takes me. I enjoy food that is both scrumptious and healthy, and the winners go to Lebanese, Greek, Japanese and Korean food. It is hard to name what my favorite dishes are, since I love them all, but I love eating well. A quiet and serene breakfast is my favorite time of the day: the best way to start my day right. Eggs are my most preferred items – soft-cooked eggs (soft boiled or sunny side up), which usually are coupled with fresh fruit and tea. I make Eggs Benedict on special occasions. Alternatively, homemade oatmeal or granola, and fresh juices or smoothies are also my perfect breakfasts.

Top Yoga classes and studios in London: Re:Centre, Hammersmith, from £15 www.recentre.co.uk; FLY LDN; mobile hire and free online classes flyldn.co.uk; FLEX Chelsea, from £22 flexchelsea.com; The Power Yoga Company, Fulham, from £15 for 3 classes (first-timers), thepoweryogaco.com

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For lunch, I tend to keep it simple: any type of salads. I enjoy super ingredients, from quinoa to edamame, and like to play with seeds and dressings. For early dinner, I tend to have a combination of small-size meals: bite size or varied small plates if possible – from assorted appetizers and canapes to seafood dim sum and gnocchi al Gorgonzola and sometimes a small cheese platter. At any break-time, I enjoy my ‘whole rose bud’ tea from Savoy and my English finger sandwiches. I also like to end my day right, usually by having my hot chocolate or lavender tea before bed! If you haven’t tried this delicious beverage, Indonesian avocado milkshake is my favorite beverage recipe (they call it ‘Alpukat jus’ in Indonesia). It is made by simply mixing milk (or milk alternatives) and fresh avocados with a little bit of ice crush and additional dark chocolate for garnish and taste. Heavenly! Due to the Covid-19 outbreak, the world came to an abrupt halt this year when we were asked to stay home. How did you adapt in order to remain happy and healthy? Since I was a kid, my favorite hobby has been reading books and quotes that are mesmerizing about life and characters of people. My mom worked for a national publishing company, and one of the things I loved to do in my leisure time was going to the company’s many bookstores and get new books that talk about life, emotions, and people’s happiness. I remember my favorite book; it was a hardcover book that I truly cherished all my life: “100 ways to say I love you”. It was the first English book that I bought with my pocket money when I was about 12. I loved the way it looks at love, and it touched my heart forever.

I learned to surround myself with people who are exhilarating, not just to inspire myself, but also to contribute to their happiness and create a positive atmosphere around me. I love being surrounded by these kinds of people; it makes life worth living. It is so liberating to be able to discuss various things with them and at the same time it is so powerful to feel happy together with them. Indeed, each person’s life is an interesting book to be read. On this basis, my stay-at-home plan was ready to go. I continued to work by meeting clients online and over the phone as arranged; I wanted to minimize the disruption for them as much as possible. On a personal level, the lockdown gave me the opportunity to try many new homemade recipes. That, and stacks of read-worthy books, as well as plenty of people, friends and family to be in contact with virtually. In addition, my yoga mat has been put to a lot of good use! What the whole experience has taught me is that life continues to be a happy occasion when you adjust to change and continue being happy, willingly.

What do you think makes a woman special? What could be her superpower? In answering those questions, personally, I am the kind of person who is serious, but not too serious either. I love having a laugh, and I love comedy. Life should be lived seriously enough, but not being overly too serious that you forget about the purpose of life itself: to be happy. We come into this world to experience happiness. It helps a lot if a woman can be positive, also if she can be sincere in feeling happy for others, and in helping others. I am confident that love is the proposition that can make people not only happy, but also successful in life. You can be certain that when you have pure happiness in your heart, you will also be successful in life. Your happiness is so important, and that is what I am standing for. I would like to be the case of happiness for everyone involved, and I think every woman should be the same for each other. In answering your second question, considering that my first and favorite purchased book was about love, and I enjoy reading life quotes, I think to a certain degree I was also born a romantic and a thinker. What makes a woman unique and special is her life journey, and also the kind of belief that she has in herself. I personally made it through ‘living life’, traveling and meeting people along the way, and each experience helped me to see things differently. This can work in slightly different ways for different women. A woman’s ability to understand love is what makes her remarkable. A woman loves others as much as she loves herself. This is exactly what we need in the world today: a true understanding of love. Every woman has a superpower! I use my superpower to help women realize that, believe in that and do just that so they can enjoy much happiness in their lives. I want to leave you, the reader, with a simple question: What is your superpower?

VISIT NOW

www.noviejohan.com

About Dr Novie Johan Dr. Novie Johan Ph.D., M.B.A., B.A. runs a personal and corporate consulting and coaching practice. Her main areas of expertise is Learning, Transition & Transformation, Personal & Professional Development, Cross-cultural Analysis, and Career Management. She has published and presented internationally in the fields of Management, Education and Sociology, and Hospitality & Tourism. Novie has worked and lived in Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America and has travelled extensively. She studied at the University of Cambridge (U.K.), University of Surrey (U.K.), University of Guelph (Canada), and Swiss Education Group (Switzerland). In addition, she lectured & researched at the University of Surrey (U.K.), Griffith University (Australia), University of Guelph and Ryerson University (Canada). Novie is a Fellow of Higher Education Association, and an Affiliate of the Institute of Coaching (McLean Hospital, Harvard Medical School Affiliate), a Member of Academy of Management and Association of Coaching. Travel and philanthropy are her passions as she continues to work internationally on research and projects that bring positive social impacts and transformations. During her time off, she enjoys yoga, dancing, rock/ice climbing, diving, and attending various sports and cultural activities. Contact Novie by visiting her website: www.noviejohan.com 212 | RICH WOMAN AMERICA MAGAZINE | Winter 2020/21

I Dare You To Step Into Your Feminine Power And Put Your Name On Real Wealth By Leslie Kuster

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ave you ever looked beyond your status quo, and said to yourself “Must be more to life!” and suddenly spotted a hidden opportunity to embrace real wealth, identify your unforeseen feminine powers, but lacked the courage to step into your next level of personal growth? Back in 1991, I traveled to Indonesia for seven months and loved it. I loved the culture, the handicrafts and most of all the people. When I returned home, I couldn’t stop thinking about the gorgeous batik clothing and beautiful fabrics I’d seen in Bali. And with that inspiration Back from Bali was born. For over 25 years, our clothing has been ethically made by family or women owned artisan businesses in Bali. Our rayon fabric is locally sourced in Indonesia and sustainably produced. My goal is to make you happy by bringing you beautiful boho inspired clothing designed and created in Bali so that you feel great and look great wearing it. It took me until I was 53 years old to be honest enough to say to myself “I want money!” It just seemed like something I shouldn’t say out loud. But when I finally said it clearly and passionately, that was the moment that started me on my path to where I am now –CEO and Founder of Back From Bali, an e Commerce fashion brand, that does multiple seven figures in annual revenue, and affords me the lifestyle and freedom I’ve always dreamed of.

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It is never too late or too early to step into your feminine powers and embrace real wealth, ladies! Women- it is time to stand and shout, “I want money,” and not to cringe while you say it – not to be embarrassed, or deemed greedy. Creating your own money enables you to step into your feminine power, be independent, take care of your family and live your freedom. Money gives you real wealth- the ability to stand on your own feet and be the sovereign of your life. Listen, I know it doesn’t sound so politically correct that I am asking you to stand up and shout I want money. It could seem like you are a money hungry feign and on top of that – it certainly isn’t very lady like. As a woman you are allowed to say “I NEED money” but certainly not I WANT money. Women are expected to say they want to help, they want to give, they want to support their families, they want to change the world- they want to collaborate – not they want money! But, if you do want more money, if you do want to earn more, you must become honest with your desire, and then have the courage to say it. Making this bold statement is what will get you on the path to achieving it. Being wishy washy, being uncertain, or pretending money is not that important, will also ensure your path of not achieving it.

Taking 100% responsibility for your feminine powers The truth is many of us, still want to be taken care of, we still want to be saved, we still want and feel we deserve a comfortable life – hey we raised the kids and that wasn’t easy! I was guilty of this too. When I married my first husband back when I was in my 20’s. I remember saying to him “Promise me you are going to make $100,000 a year! ” It didn’t even dawn on me to promise myself to do the same! I always worked but I felt my husband was the one who ideally should be pulling in the big bucks. In my mid 50’s I began to have strong stirrings inside of me of wanting to be more successful myself. I wanted to be able to buy with my husband our dream apartment, I wanted to have more financial freedom, I wanted to feel independent and that I could afford to take care of myself. And the biggest realization of all: If I wanted this, I had to take 100% responsibility to get it. Like the princess in the tower waiting for prince charming to save her I realized I had been waiting to be saved. I was waiting, just like so many of us women do, for a man to save me and buy me what I wanted. I was waiting for something I wanted to change, but waiting for that change to happen was no longer an option for me. Actually ladies, this isn’t an option for you either. It certainly didn’t work for Barbara Stanny, author of Sacred Success, as she tells the true story of handing her millions she inherited from her father, to her husband and watch it all disappear when he ran away with it. There are still way too many women who are married and still have no idea about their finances because their husband is taking care of it. There are countless, millions actually, of women who marry “wealthy” men and who disassociate with “their” money. They live in a nice house, have a card for their own purchases and their partner pays the bills and handles investments. But they do not actually “have” the money, nor do they know how to access it. When you can stand on your own feet, and know that you can truly take care of yourself and your family it is a moment when we truly grow up and take 100% responsibility for our money, our relationships, our homes, our jobs, our businesses and our happiness. We no longer cover up our light and power, cover up our dreams and desires, in order to remain safe and comfortable. The truth is women are scared of their own power because becoming powerful means you can’t act like a little girl, you can’t hide from your true wants, and you can’t pretend you don’t understand things.

As Ali Brown, one of my most cherished mentors describes this awareness, “it’s time to put on your big girl panties.” When you put on your big girl panties you step into true feminine power, you put economic control into your own hands. And we all know, when economic control is put into women’s hands, they contribute to the world in a positive way. Creating money and wealth for yourself gives you freedom. It gives you the independence to know you can stand on your own feet. You can care for yourself and for those you love. With earning your own money you do not need someone else to make you feel safe – not a partner, not a husband, not a father. You can do this on your own. Having control of your own life is freedom – and it is freedom that you want. Freedom to define what is important to you, freedom to help others if that is your choice, freedom to live how you want. You deserve that!

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Destination Love

Tips to Survive Corona Love By Maggie Bain

he corona virus outbreak led to big changes in the way we interact with the people we love and here are a series of tips to survive Corona Love and help your relationships stay healthy during the pandemic.Love is hugely important for getting us through this but self-isolation, social distancing and other concerns may also place love under added pressure. Some years ago I made a decision to move my business online and provide access to people worldwide who were searching for Relationship & Intimacy help. Little did I know our world was going to turn upside down and we would all be forced to look at our relationships in a whole new way. Lockdown, due to the Coronavirus, and the true state of our most intimate relationships is becoming clearer to us, as if they have been placed under a microscope. For many, the tender spots are being magnified. Tender spots as in old wounds or sweet realizations of love for our partners. We seem to find ourselves in a Time of Choice. Maybe even a time for healing, and a restyled intimacy? Or perhaps a fun time to get to know each other again and deepen the intimacy? Unfortunately it may be a time to see that the space between you is irrevocably damaged and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to part ways. The choice is ours!

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Expressing Yourself Stay with me and I’ll show you how to… - tackle the tough stuff - understand the importance of becoming a great listener - improve communication Have you ever thought about why communication hasn’t been great between you and your partner? What does your partner say? That you don’t listen? Or do you feel you don’t even get a chance to talk or say how you feel? Maybe the volume gets louder. Perhaps there are putdowns, insults, or tone changes. And over time, you’ve just got quieter and quieter until you seem to have lost your voice completely. I know this happens for men and women. Recently, I was answering questions at the end of a speaking engagement when a young man asked me point blank, “So you’re saying that if I sent my wife to you, and she just talked to you her sex drive would increase?” A lively interaction ensued until I noticed a young woman sitting beside him, who looked like she was fading back into the chair. I asked him if she was his wife and he answered affirmatively. All this time, he was talking about their intimate life as if she wasn’t there. I asked her how that made her feel, hearing him speak about her like this, and sharing the most intimate part of their lives. Her response stunned me. She shrugged and said nothing. She didn’t show anger, upset, embarrassment; and she hadn’t left the room, and she hadn’t joined in the discussion. I wonder how long that had been going on and what had happened to get them to that point. It’s true that communication problems are often complex. Regardless of where we learned them, bad habits become The Norm if they go unchecked. I know you may be thinking, “Gosh, Maggie! Better communication is easier said than done! You don’t know who I live with!” It’s true. Each of you is unique, and no two relationships are alike. However, there are some tips that tend to help most people in relationships.

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“Do you feel you can’t express yourself, and lockdown is just making it worse?” Try opening the conversation.

Ask your partner their thoughts about your communication and listen to their answers. Were you surprised? If this goes well, suggest a certain time, place, and mood for a relationship talk. Think back to a time when you both successfully resolved a problem. Write down elements that were present. For example, was it a certain time of day, such as before/after work, before/during/after mealtimes? Can this be replicated under lockdown? Practice for 15 minutes a day. Discuss the possibility of things improving, and a new approach and perspective to the relationship. a) Sit together with no distractions. That means phones off, no internet, no TV, and no children close by. b) Face-to-face, take turns listening. Be fully engaged. Don’t interrupt. Don’t problemsolve. Don’t criticize or put down in any way. c) When you have listened, you have gained the right to ask for the same in return.

How to start living in Harmony If you feel no one is listening to you and that you’re unable to find common ground, I can tell you that you’re not alone. I hear so many complaining about having to repeat themselves, getting frustrated and angry, going round and round in circles, and feeling ready to give up. Resentment builds and all too often a disconnect, a true intimate distancing, is felt. Not surprising, right? Does this sound familiar? Perhaps there is a sense of priorities shifting and you find yourself arguing over the “small stuff.” You’re out of step, out of sync, and not on the same page as you used to be. Perhaps it may even feel like you’re not even in the same chapter! I worked with a couple whose first four years of marriage were long distance. They had never lived together as husband and wife for any longer than two weeks. Can you imagine? Then, she was transferred to a new location for work, and suddenly they were living together — for the first time. As you can imagine, getting on the same page was an uphill climb. They clashed and bumped heads over what felt like everything. Household things, daily living, parenting, and so much more. Frustration, disbelief, and words like “divorce” were thrown around. It took a lot of rearranging, accommodating, and intense sessions with me before things started to settle. Is it all perfect now? No, by no means. But they now have skills to deal with issues that come up. For you, it may be that you and your partner were just so busy that you didn’t get a lot of time together to realize how not on the same page you were. But now, with this lockdown, and everything’s simply becoming magnified and intense the way it did for our long-distance couple. Worry not. It’s possible to get on the same page. It just takes intention and attention. Here are five tips to get you started:

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Do you feel no one is listening to you, or that you cannot find common ground? Be the one to start the conversation. I know trying something new can be daunting, but… just go for it! Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Take a deep breath and decide to open the conversation with something like: “Let’s do things differently now that we’re all home together.” or “This is the time for us to work with each other, not against one another.” Together, write down structured time for Work, Personal Time, and Together Time. Choose a respectful time and place for everyone. Establishes fairness, especially if your people regularly complain about it. Commit to sitting down and eating 3 meals together every day. I know this may seem obvious, but I know many people do not share one mealtime together. Imagine… if things go well, you may even start preparing meals together!Reminisce and acknowledge your history together. Celebrate the highs and the lows. Pat yourselves on the back for surviving. After the first day, ask for feedback. Make joint decisions if anything needs to be altered. Then adjust and repeat until you enjoy the beauty and harmony of structure

Cultivating Happiness Are you thrilled to have the extra time with your partner, or is this the worst thing imaginable for you? To be cooped up, trapped at home, with this person? Perhaps you were either getting to, or had reached, a place where it was actually working. You’d found that place of contentment, even happy, and now your life has been turned upside down. I was once asked by a man to call his wife and ask her if she’d be willing to join him in couples sessions with me. He felt I would be able to introduce myself and my qualifications better than he would, and that by speaking with me, she would get a feel of whether she’d want to join the sessions. I wondered if he felt she’d shoot down the mere suggestion of it if he had broached the possibility on his own, so I called her. We spoke at great length that day, and I listened to her describe their life over almost three decades. “Oh, so this is his latest thing, is it? After I’ve had to deal with his depression, addictions to pain medication and alcohol, moods, and the lawsuits that have drained us financially over years and years. Do you know how many times I’ve wanted to leave, but haven’t? I know I have my own things and I’m not brave enough to go, but really?. I’m supposed to change just to make him happy?!? I don’t think he even knows or can recognize when he’s happy!!! He’s never satisfied, always miserable…?” She got more angry as we spoke. When she finished, I left it as her choice to come or not. No pressure, no expectations. Because she wanted to hear what he had to say, so she agreed to join us. It was a challenging session to say the least. However, it’s those original questions and statements that have haunted me since: I’m supposed to change just to make him happy?!? I don’t think he even knows or can recognize when he’s happy!!! He’s never satisfied, always miserable… Do we create our own happiness? What do you think? Is it possible to live in our own little happiness? Or does living with someone mean we are heavily influenced by their happiness? What’s your opinion or belief on this? Or is it just a choice? Either way, I’m here with five tips to get you started…

Define Happiness for YOU What would you like to think, feel, and experience? I’m imagining that you’re wanting experiences that make you feel needed, wanted, and loved. So, think long and hard about where you have been in the past (time, place, person) when you’ve felt that needed, wanted, and loved. That’s what you recognize and acknowledge as happiness. It may be a moment in time or longer. It’s yours, not mine nor anyone else’s, and it is about how your mind, body and soul felt in that moment- that’s Your Happiness Decide: To React or Not To React? Listening to free-flying insults designed to provoke you is not acceptable, nor a solution. A knee-jerk response from you, free-flying insults, hoping to provoke them is not acceptable, nor a solution. Emotion meeting Emotion escalates and, more often than not, implodes! Practice a healthier response for fifteen minutes every day. Sitting together with no distractions (phones off, no internet, no TV, no children close by). Face-to-face, take turns listening, fully engaged. Don’t interrupt. Don’t problemsolve. Don’t criticize. Don’t put them down…Ask them to do the same for you. By becoming a Great Listener, you gain the right to then ask for the same in return. Acknowledge resentments and unresolved problems in your relationship. Start by making individual lists. Decide together if there are any outstanding complaints that can be easily rectified. Take one from each list to satisfy a win-win for everyone. Try to talk with honesty and openness about sensitive issues involving Trust and Respect. Now you very well may not get anywhere with this. These are the painful and delicate areas. Go gently. But try. By gaining balance in your life, you can then concentrate on filling your life with happiness. Build the Happy Habit. Remember days when you felt happier, lighter, smiled more, and felt hopeful? When there was a lightness in your step and a feeling that you could tackle anything? Well, it’s that feeling that I want you to focus on. A bad habit has taken root and has now become your norm. But they say a new habit can be established in 21 days. So, why not take the challenge using this lockdown?

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Before you even open your eyes in the morning, say to yourself — in your head or out loud, “This is going to be a good day! I’m going to be happy. Now what do I have to look forward to today?”Visualize the upcoming events and imagine them going well. Be consistent every day. Don’t leave anything out of the visualization. Training your thoughts, your mood, and planning for good feelings can move you into a better place creating a new habit from which your happiness can flourish.

About the writer: Known today as the Bare Naked Coach, Maggie Bain is using her natural ability to see the hidden pain and gently bring it to the surface, so that people can experience some quick relief before they learn the skills required to enhance their relationships and deepen their intimacy. Maggie is also guiding many people through the pain of infidelities, ends of relationships, and divorce. Born in Kano Nigeria and raised in Scotland, Maggie ventured to the Bahamas in 1988. She arrived with a wealth of knowledge after having been trained in the United Kingdom as a Registered Nurse, Midwife, and Critical Care Nurse. After more than thirty years of nursing, she decided to pursue her lifelong interest in human sexuality at the Florida Sex Therapy Institute, West Palm Beach, and returned to break new ground by becoming the first Sex Therapist in The Bahamas and sparking conversations on sexuality. Maggie’s message of rekindling the heat and deepening the intimacy to create an extraordinary relationship is both relatable and recognizably achievable. Her unique style and natural ability to put people at ease make her a magnetic personality. This became evident when she was accepted and began to study with bestselling author, transformational speaker, and featured teacher of The Secret Lisa Nichols.

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Looking ahead to Valentines Day 2021

fter all the temporary distancing, we still believe that love is forever and for every one who is finding room in their busy life to love and be loved. If you love celebrating love, in 2021 we have a lot to celebrate as Valentine Day jumpstarts with the Valentine Week all the way to Valentine day. Rose Day 2021 - February, 7th Propose Day 2021- February, 8th Chocolate Day 2021- February, 9th Teddy Day 2021- February. 10th Promise Day 2021- February, 11th Hug Day 2021 - February. 12th and don’t forget, Kiss Day 2021 on February, 13th If by February, 14th 2021 you are still single, you are not alone! Official sources from the census bureau tells us that one in every four people in America is currently living in one-person households- a staggering 36 million people! Demographers from Australia, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea and most European countries consider this to be an important social and economic shift that people don’t like to talk about. In other words, it is not you, at least in 2020, we could definitely say- it’s a pandemic. What could you change in 2021?

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Feed Your Ex to a Snake! (in name only)

f you ever had your heart broken by a not so gentle, gentlemen or perhaps you had a crash and well it didn't all pan out so well, then San Antonio Zoo (sazoo.org) has the perfect way for you to get some REVENGE on Valentines Day (by feeding that b*stard to a snake)!

Cry Me A Cockroach Valentine’s Day is celebrated by millions of people and just because somebody broke your heart this year, doesn’t mean you don’t have a place in somebody else’s heart! First thought you need make room in your own heart. Easier said than done, but if you join San Antonio Zoo live cockroach feeding event, you may set your heart free again! Only names submitted through their website will be featured through the promotion. All names will be submitted anonymously, and only first names will be displayed during the feeding event. You will be able to name a cockroach after your ex, and they will serve it up as an enrichment treat to one of their animals for only $5.

For those who deserve a special place in hell a snake’s stomach If your ex was a snake, you can even name a pre-frozen rodent after them, and the guardians of free hearts at San Antonio Zoo will feed it to a reptile for only $25! Better still you even receive a certificate which you can can be shared on your own social media pages and maybe even tag some mutual connection. And, yes, we will be happy to share!

It goes without saying that San Antonio Zoo looks after all animals, including those who end up as food. All rodents and cockroaches are sourced from human farms and SA Zoo have been audited and Humane Certified by American Humane in 2017

TheSTARS

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Gems From The Stars and Astrological Insights by Ysanne Lewis

am so happy to be writing to you and sharing my insights and forecasting on the wonderful connection between YOU and the wisdom of the stars and planets above. We are all interconnected - a vibrant web of energy - and timing is a very important part of being in health so as to avoid stress and the mismatching of ourselves with people, places and opportunities. As we women have an instinctive link with the moon’s cycles and the flow of the tides within and outside of us, it is important to recognise the lunar as well as other planetary movements during the month. The word moon is linked with mother, matter and month! How well are you furnishing your inner home? Softer skills are to the fore as we stay at home more and it is lovely to see more empathy, listening, crafts and caring emerging! The journey we are on at a core level is expressed by the qualities and lessons of our star signs. The Sun travels through the 12 in its yearly journey – from the perspective of the Earth – and they are divided into seasons and elements. It Starts with Aries at the spring equinox. We are all experiencing how and where we spend time in a very different way at present, so here are some nuggets of advice with a look at your personal star signs for the month ahead.

About the writer: Ysanne Lewis is a UK based Timing Adviser, Astrologer, Speaker and Author. Her work spans 41 years and she celebrated her ruby work anniversary earlier in 2019. She has clientele here and in the USA, Asia, Europe and South Africa. Working with individuals, families and businesses, she seamlessly weaves the meanings of cycles, timings and patterns in educational, inspirational and humour-filled ways into the beautiful tapestry which is Life. She acts as a bridge and navigator between the maps of the heavens and our inner landscapes and their timekeepers.

WINTER STARS December, January and February – the winter months, or summer in southern hemisphere – speak to us of celebration, reflection and new beginnings. They straddle the old and new year, allowing us to inwardly cleanse and renew. Perhaps, like no other year in modern history, we have had to pull on our inner resources and adapt. With these abilities we can face the new year of 2021 with added courage and new skills. What unlived roles or parts of you have come on stage and found a niche? December sees the New Moon on 14th and the Full Moon on 30th. Mars, the planet of action is in direct motion now having turned direct on November 13th, after many weeks in retrograde motion. More clarity and straightforward approaches will become obvious. The big news is a major conjunction of the giant teacher planets, Jupiter and Saturn. They leave the hierarchical and ‘tough love’ sign of Capricorn and move into the air sign Aquarius. Jupiter and Saturn line up every 20 years, but they haven’t come together in freedom loving, humanitarian Aquarius since the early 1400’s! Conjunctions represent a meeting and new beginnings. We can expect after December 21st and the winter solstice, a wave of change and futuristic thinking. The old order starts to get replaced by new values and change. At a personal level we have opportunities to teach and mentor ourselves in better ways and recognise our role in society in new ways. Are you becoming more a rebel, reformer or team player? How can you make that role wise and caring as well as individualistic? As we move into January 2021, there is a question we can ask ourselves… what do we truly need to leave behind and what do we really want to move forward with? Mars, after many months in Aries, its ‘home sign’, enters earthy Taurus and we see a more practical and planning energy available to us. There has been so much uncertainty, so this will be welcome. The New Moon is on 13th and the Full Moon on 28th. The 14thth – 16th are dynamic as Uranus sparks off the conjunction so use it wisely, even if others don’t, for enterprise and changing oneself within. In February, Mercury goes retrograde until the 21st, suggesting we hold off impulsive decisions and, instead, re trace our steps and re visit ideas and plans. Inventive ideas and new contacts and freedoms appear. The New Moon is on 11th and Full Moon on 27th.

Fire Signs

December 2020 Aries Mars, your ruling planet in your sign till the second week of January, says take full advantage of the power available now. Fellow fire sign Sagittarius is up and running and this helps you find direction and forward thinking. There has been a big need for patience these past two months, not easy for an Aries, so now you can let off steam and be in the lead. The 10th and 11th are your days for doing just that! Your need to play and being creative – even original – beckons you and you will feel lighter than you have for a while, especially up to the 21st. Take stock then to see how far you have come this year and how inner discipline has matured you. Your romantic side emerges and attracts people around 16th. Just be clear whether you want an entanglement at this time! Maybe just flirt and charm. This is your time for being yourself, not always so easy in a partnership.

Leo Do you want to take up a new hobby now? Well aspected planets in that arena of your horoscope suggest the need for fresh air and creative expression. The part of you which is a performer (whether you are shy or not) is ready to come on stage in some way. Travel may beckon too. It is important you use December well and productively. There is really no excuse to hide your light… or be lazy. How you use time now is the key. Act spontaneously and you won’t be disappointed. Children are around you more this month and, if you are thinking of having a baby, now could be the right time. If not, you can birth a project which will fulfill you. Re designing or decorating your home is a positive idea this month. Color in your life is essential now.

Sagittarius Your time of year for free thinking and travel of mind and /or body! What do you plan for these few weeks? The solstice time on 21st augers well for good timing with connections and speaking your mind. This is a fertile month for you and, with your ruling planet Jupiter to the fore now, much luck and opportunity come your way. You may have felt dampened this year by restrictions, but inwardly now at least there will be a sense of optimism and enthusiasm. The 19th is a day to celebrate this. Take advantage of Mars still in a fellow fire sign, Aries, this month and be adventurous. You decide how! After the 16th, with lovely Venus in your sign until well into January, your powers of attraction bubble up. Expect an admirer. This person loves travel and learning.

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Earth Signs Taurus Venus, goddess of love and creativity- your ruling planet- is lighting up your relationship zone now and you can take full advantage of this by allowing your self-esteem and inner beauty to shine brightly. Effortlessly you will draw timely opportunities and meetings. It is important to tap your depths and not just flit on the surface of experience. December time is transformation time for you so, just as goddesses could shape shift, so can you now â&#x20AC;&#x201C; into ways and even appearances that enhance the real you! The once in a lifetime of the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in Aquarius, on December 21st highlights your career zone. What changes, prunings and advancement do you want? You have had to be a strategist for many months now. Be patient still until January when Mars - entering your sign- can move on from that role and encourage you to be more energized and in control.

Virgo Your home and domestic life may be changing in some way. Whether small or big changes, they are timely and you would be wise to allow this. Family members are changing residence too. Finances need re assessing and this is a good month for clearing and being flexible with changes. The new moon on the 14th is significant for these matters, especially after 21st. After mid month things settle more and the newfound space and clarity, whether inside or outside, will feel welcome. Time to play more then and be creative with chores and ideas. Being extra loving over the holiday season will be timely as Venus enters your communication zone.

Capricorn Until the 21st when the Sun enters your sign, get more rest and await the tides changing. Your inner world and psychic side are strongly influencing you and this is the time to surrender more and let go of the past and traditional ideas. A feeling of closeness to someone strengthens. Your compassion also heightens. This is not weakness but strength and others will benefit as well as your relationship to yourself. Later in the month you feel like making bridges between past and future and widening your social framework. This is a pivotal month for you to get a perspective on many areas of your life. Choose your companions wisely as you need â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;goodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; energy people around you this month.

Air Signs

December 2020 Gemini The upcoming December 21st conjunction of the teacher planets Jupiter and Saturn sits nicely with you Geminians. In Aquarius, that aligns well with you, a fellow air sign! You are ready for change and fresh air in your life and relationships. You don’t have to do this all at once though. Get the ideas spinning, brain storm more and even write them down. Until the 21st when the sun enters Capricorn, really speak your truth and needs with a partner or friend. Openness suits you now, as does keeping things simple. It would be too easy for you to complicate things and overload. Use the new moon on the 14th in your sign for starting a new project or activity. People will want to be around you more than usual. Choose them carefully as you will get bored easily this month. Discernment is the key word.

Libra Your zone of communication, learning and short journeys – oh, and siblings and neighbourhood - is accented this month. News you have been waiting for arrives. So it could be a busy time. Learning or teaching, even just joining in with networking, is favoured well, and it would be good to use those lovely brain cells of yours to keep you in good health and optimism. Mars, the provoker and energiser of action, is still in your opposite sign of Aries till January, so be discerning about how you cause reactions in others. Most of the time these are positive reactions but obviously tread carefully with some people. Partners can press your buttons so keep the humour going. Not everything is personal! After the 16th, and the new moon two days before, you can easily move forward successfully with interests, meetings - virtual or in person. The ‘highlighted’ date, 21st, puts a spring in your step.

Aquarius This is your special month for a booster influx of Aquarian energy! Are you ready for this? Of course you are. Jupiter, expansion and Saturn, the builder – the giant planets – are combining forces in your sign and will stay a while. This magic occurs on the 21st and opens inner and outer doors for you. What are you going to start manifesting in 2021? The Sun in Sagittarius- an adventurous, far seeing sign – is occupying your zone of friendship and social goals till then as well, so this is a great month for advancement and opportunity. Venus is occupying your career and goals zone till mid month, so influential people come your way. Receiving is the key. Until the second week of January your mind is very stimulated so try to pace yourself and allow time to absorb. Don’t spoil things by rushing or getting burnt out. Romance may come about via friendships or work.

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Water Signs Cancer Make the most of Venus travelling through a fellow water sign, Scorpio this month as, with fire and earth signs dominating, you can feel a little lost. The end of the first week sees a lovely alignment between her and Neptune, allowing you to simply flow with events and create your own pace rather than trying to match other peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pace! Take time to dream and be creatively inspired then. Your work arena is very active now so do delegate more and ask for help. The word allowing is useful this month. With Mars in your zone of goals as well as wanting you to take more leadership, know that the most successful outcomes rise from simplicity as well as the spadework. The full moon on the 30th in your sign sees you giving birth to the seeds or fruits of a new project.

Scorpio With Venus in your sign till mid month take advantage of your glow of sex appeal and warmth. Your sensual side in all ways is very attractive now. Massages and beauty treatments would be good for you. Not just with people, but in the financial area, you can draw abundance. We all have different ideas of abundance but you will know what it is and what it feels like when it comes. You will be looking at your values more and what you want to create now to represent them. Work is highlighted in this framework and it might be the time to start inspecting whether your job or whatever role in life you are playing reflects your values and sense of purpose. With rebellious planet Uranus in your opposite sign of Taurus there is a pull between change and the familiar. Scorpio is not comfortable with endings but Uranus likes change; keep centred and take your time.

Pisces As this year draws to a close it is always good to reflect on it. This applies very much to you with the Sun transiting the zenith of your horoscope and highlighting your goals and public image. Communicator planet Mercury is there as well and I would suggest that leading up to the solstice time on the 21st and the Jupiter /Saturn â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;meeting,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; that you take stock, review, then set a vision, if not a goal, for 2021. Doing this in a relaxed way will bring the answers easily to you. You operate best when attuned to your intuitive mind and right hemisphere brain, and, around the 6th and 7th when your ruling planet Neptune aligns with creative Venus, you will get strong insights about your professional and your love life. Whether you meditate or just relax into the intuitive power at your disposal, it is important to do this. Your travel and higher seeking zone is open to ideas and plans this month. If you have friends abroad do contact them.

Fire Signs

January 2021 Aries A month for looking at your goals, work wise or otherwise. Early in January travel beckons, or at least a plan for it. Ease your way in to the 6th and 7th when your ruler changes sign. Make sure your actions are solid and have firm foundation. Balancing the old and new, zany and conventional, this could be a strong month for making your mark and showing your true self. When the Sun enters Aquarius on 20th, make the most of new encounters and breaking free of unnecessary restraints. A parent or parent figure needs to attention more. People will look to you for leadership and decision making. Being authentic and standing in your power and honesty serves you well now. You want to be part of the new time spirit emerging and your pragmatic wisdom will be needed.

Leo December’s conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in your opposite and complementary sign, Aquarius, is waking you up now to your need for expansion. It is vital you have a project or goal in this early part of the year of 2021. This is your opposite time of the year – after the 20th- and you need to keep a perspective. Watch your energy flow and don’t stress your nervous and circulatory and heart system. Pacing yourself suits you now. All will get done! Issues of fairness arise and you can be a good spokesperson for change or for causes now. A partnership takes more time to understand now. If single, a new kind of partner appeals to you. Different from your usual type and it will help you grow and develop latent talents.

Sagittarius Finances excite you now, in the sense you enjoy making them or a scheme work for you. Money is energy and a partner/associate may encourage you to back or initiate a project. Mars is entering your work arena after 6th highlighting increased energy for hard work and passion. Take the right steps and with foresight and vision you can be successful. The sense of adventure I mentioned under December stars will find a worthy outlet here! Saturn in direct opposition to your Sun at this new year time, encourages you to be responsible and keep plans in order. After 20th things feel lighter and more relaxed and you can concentrate your mind on other things too. Learning new techie things and even new information accompanies the last 11 days of January.

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Earth Signs Taurus So, it is time now as you enter the second week of this month, to assert yourself in new ways and be in command of your direction. The Sun in Capricorn – a fellow earth signuntil the 20th, sees you wanting to explore new horizons and grow! With Venus there too an attraction to people and foreign countries may occur. Mars enters your sign and stays there till early March, really empowering your decisions and self image. Productivity is the key word and alongside that you create a philosophy of life that really suits you. Mercury, provides inventive ideas regarding projects and goals. Keep some to yourself as they will be excellent ones and you can capitalize on them in due course. Use the new moon time on 13th for good timing and an adventure!

Virgo The social side of you is still up and running from later December! It increases as Venus enters your romance and play zone after the 9th. In fact, if you choose so, January is a wondrous month for initiating imaginative projects and being open to encounters out of your usual mold. Mars, in your travel zone now till early March, may well see a trip in the offing. Plan now; it may be a place further away than you normally consider. After the 20th duties and work take precedence but you will glide through this easily as your confidence will have increased these past weeks. The mentor in you can help a younger person well. Offering your skills to do this or to educate is a pathway opening for you, whether professionally or in the voluntary sector.

Capricorn New goals emerge this month and you can use the new and full moon times to energize these. Venus is in your sign from the 9th, and a love interest surfaces. Maybe it is someone you already know. Look for the 11th and 12th regarding this attraction. Use the power of the sun in Capricorn until the 19th to awaken your intents and more masculine side. Masculine energy can be well balanced with your feminine power now. Use it wisely. Work can also see a push forward. A boss or influencer wants to help you. Accept this help. It is yours to receive. Let the inner critic go off stage! You are ‘enough’ and you need to show this more.

Air Signs

January 2021 Gemini A more paced time for you with the Sun and Venus in Capricorn until the 20th. That is not a bad thing as all the bright ideas you have been having can now find a home and foundation. And as you go into February you can edit some and make good decisions. Conserve some energy as you need to be ready for a bright Spring time. Look after your chest/ lungs and keep warm. New year is excellent for feeling more free in your heart and plans and the 27th and the full moon on 28th will see an adventurous and playful side on the stage of your life. New technology will appeal. Check it thoroughly though before purchasing. Is there a book in you? Quite probably!

Libra You will find the new year an optimum time to establish new comfort zones and with more space for you. After the 6th when assertive Mars moves into the earthy sign of Taurus, which, like Libra, is ruled by lovely Venus, you can establish better boundaries. This is overdue, isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t it? The recent move of Jupiter and Saturn into airy and freedom seeking Aquarius, suits you well, as it is time for new beginnings and a new approach to an existent or possible new relationship. Your domestic life needs some fresh air so changes in routines and appliances are likely. After the 7th expect flirtations and your ability to use words expressively to show up. Children bring joy to you, and your inner child gets an airing. Walk this month with a light step and you will really enjoy it.

Aquarius Your arrival on your stage of life this year comes after 20th when the Sun enters your sign. With three other planets there too do make the most of contacts, more freedom and new ideas. Until the 20th take time to listen to the whisperings and promptings from within and prepare for this next big part of your innovative life. Mars enters the arena of your home on the 6th, so get up to speed with any repairs or changes you are desiring. Else, when Mercury goes retrograde in February, there will be additional expense due to delaying these. Balance your energies between forging ahead and staying put. Tai chi and similar exercises will help you! Your ruler Uranus after many months of retrograde goes direct in motion on the 14th. Use around that date for choosing to exteriorize ideas and change.

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Water Signs Cancer This is a productive month for you. However, with the Sun in opposition to your Cancer star sign, watch you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t over strain yourself. Partners are helpful, whether personal or business ones and can provide good feedback when most needed for you. Especially after the 6th when Mars moves out of your career and responsibility zone and into the team playing one, you can get a better balance and know when to share projects more and brain storm easily. The new moon on 13th highlights new partnership or a change of role possibly in an existing one. This will be timely. If you are single there might be a growing need to be close to someone romantically. Allow that desire or prompting to grow!

Scorpio As January speeds up you will be feeling a greater sense of freedom and wanting change. Home or property changes may be on the agenda or have recently happened. A bigger plan is forming in your mind and by early Spring there will be noticeable changes within your lifestyle. But for now let your inner world begin to sort this. Active Mars enters your relationship zone on the 6th. Depending on your circumstances, you could either draw a dynamic partner or choose to break up some habits and grievances in an existing relationship. Nothing stays the same, and for growth to occur, airings of issues and seeing a person with new eyes are essential. Venus in your zone of communications and agreements from the 9th, encourages you to reach out to people, mend fences and use words gracefully.

Pisces Your friendships, teams and group activity are up and running; this is the month to energize them and bring people together. They need your input and grace and you may even be feeling like setting up a group on line or in person. Your intuition is still very strong at this time and you can help others a lot. Around the 8th there is a nice link between your ruling planet Neptune and the Sun and you can use that time for aligning with your heart and others hearts. A good way to start and end the day! Mars is energizing how you speak and discuss things. Being a force for change in a gentle but definite way will bring you to the attention of certain people who can introduce you to others who help you further! If you are not working, may I suggest some kind of voluntary work as your skills now are needed? A friendship may develop into a love relationship at this time.

Fire Signs

February 2021 Aries Friendships and team work take precedence this month. People from the past re appear and new contacts have an air of familiarity about them! The full Moon on 27th sees this likelihood strengthening. February can be a romantic month so give time and space for nurturing yourself and being open to receiving. A friend creates an introduction for you. Return the favor as well when the time is right. An increased understanding of give and take, masculine and feminine approaches, is present. Your finances need a bit more balancing. Be aware of impulsive buys- with Mercury retrograde from 2nd to 21st, you may find you may want or need to return them! After the 18th a softer way of approaching problems develops.

Leo Taking things in a paced way still till later month is still advised. You can accomplish much if you do things in rhythm and flow. Relationships are your priority this month and you will sense how to negotiate and solve any misunderstandings- which can easily arise with Mercury retrograde this month. Ego and co-operative drives need aligning. Pause before re acting. They can coexist in harmony! Shine your light and make space for others to do the same; Win–win! A special social event lights you up towards the end of the month. Make February a creative month for your innovative mind. Don’t overtax your analytical mind; instead honor your intuition and instinct more. It will pay off and engender respect all round.

Sagittarius With communicator planet Mercury in retrograde motion from 2nd to 21st do back things up, do a general MOT and re-edit things. In fact, the prefix ‘re’ is good to use now before words and actions. This applies to us all but especially for you Sagittarians as it is occupying your arena of communication and arrangements and travels/commutes. Check details and small print. After 18th with the Sun in your home arena, maybe a bit of time out to relax and unwind. Less is more then. Short journeys will escalate but, again, be sure arrangements are double checked. Writing may appeal this month. You can draw on your recall memory well now and help others with ideas and information.

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Earth Signs Taurus With trickster Mercury retrograding in your zone of career this month, be extra clear with details and changes. Steady and reflective progress suits you now. On a lighter note, old opportunities may re- emerge. After 21st you can see more clearly your goals and results. Do you need to change your job? Or add a new skill to the present one? If you do not work the same influence can apply to any activities outside the personal life and how you handle authorities and organizations. Either way, people will be noticing you, suggesting improvements and new avenues of expression! After the 18th a new group activity and friendship develop. Spreading your wings is the message for late winter. It is not a time to be a stick in the mud or too stubborn.

Virgo Your ruling planet Mercury is in retrograde motion now till 21st. Soâ&#x20AC;Ś how about re shuffling day to day activities a bit and avoid over sweating small details and worries? Health niggles can be exaggerated now by worry and imagination, so deal with them, then move on. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t rush ahead too quickly. Let your metaphorical feet catch up! Your mind can work against you this month so get more grounded in nature and working with your hands. By 19th you will hand over the reins more to others and feel more at peace and laid back. Breathing deeply will aid you and you will find your own innate healing skills surfacing whether with people or animals.

Capricorn Your finance zone is being highlighted by Mercury going retrograde until the 21st. The air element is strong this month so make sure you are fully present and up to date, not just with money but values and ongoing projects. Watch the 6th for impulsive behavior from yourself or another. On an easier note Mars is on your side in fellow earth sign Taurus, and you can energize people and make long reaching plans. After 21st treat yourself to culture and pleasures. The last week of February is just right for that, especially from the 26th onward. Words come easily to you and others flatter you. Writing is well aspected then for you.

Air Signs

February 2021 Gemini Mercury in retrograde motion till 21st may work in your favor as it aligns with the Gemini energy and brings old information back to you to look at and use. Someone from your past re appears and gives you an interesting choice to look at. Planets in airy Aquarius this month speed you along towards goals and pastures new. A place abroad draws you and you are tempted to go there. A note of caution. Don’t be too clever because things are going well. Take times out to pause and let things settle. Be extra careful to back up data and mot things. You don’t want to lose precious things. Any new purchases can be open to being taken or sent back so be sure you really want them, especially technical or appliances.

Libra Involvement with young people and creative projects can delight you now. You are being drawn to being more center stage and will be looking at ways to do this. An old or new interest in the arts and culture absorbs you so keep attending live or on line exhibitions and performances. What were your hobbies as a youngster? Can you activate them again and fulfill an old dream? Mercury retrograde till the 21st, keeps you on your toes with arrangements, travel plans and decisions. Use this time till then to listen to the whispers from your higher self and be very present and focused. A romance is there for you this month so be open to it, whether short or long lived. Romance takes many forms so put magic into everyday things. The new moon on 11th is a good time for making a wish and ‘intending.’

Aquarius Venus is in your sign this month, happily accompanying the Sun in its travels. Attractions to others occur and you will have a special energy about you - like a magnet. More visitors abound (if lock down restrictions allow) and certainly you will feel like surrounding yourself with a variety of types of people. People from other backgrounds are useful and enjoyable this month. Boredom will not sit easy with you this month. Returns from the past are likely until the 21st. A creative work project comes your way after the 18th and, the 11th and 12th, when Venus and Jupiter line up, auspicious for meetings and for finance. The 25th is a good date for firming up or manifesting something. In many ways February brings out your curiosity and capacity for trying new things and ways!

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Water Signs Cancer This is a month for going more deeply into matters. What re birth or transformation is required from you? What do you feel passionately about and want to bring to public attention? Ideas and causes from the past will rear their heads whilst Mercury is retrograde till 21st. Ancestry and family matters need some healing and attention and after the 18th you will feel the pull to either travel or to link with some foundation, charity or â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for you important cause. Around the full moon in Virgo on the 27th this will come together and get going. A sense of team effort strengthens and grows. Your spiritual side guides you more after 19th and you realize you are never alone! A bequest of some kind may well be coming your way this month. You will know how to use it!

Scorpio Whatever your home is like, you will be feeling the draw to make creative changes. Choosing who you want in it in the form of visitors and the like will be important. A family member- maybe older- needs your help, and your emotional power is very empowering. The new moon on the 11th amplifies this. Taking time for you is important this month. Mercury retrograde till 21st, causes you to reflect more and process things. Your mind can get over active otherwise and little mishaps can occur. Remember to breathe deeply and get outdoors more. That is where you will feel more space within yourself and get a perspective. The Sun entering a fellow water sign, Pisces, on the 18th, helps you to honor that time for solitude. Creative pursuits become important then.

Pisces With Mercury retrograding this month until the 21st, your listening skills and creative talents are to the fore. Music and performers need all the help they can get at present, so bring your skills, attendance and support to them this month. If musical yourself bring that alive in your own home. Someone from the past pops up and you will feel quite a soul connection with them. The full moon in your opposite sign, Virgo, on the 27th helps you get a perspective on a matter where you feel confused. A partner or associate needs your help or advice then. After the 18th when the Sun enters your sign, give more time to you and your needs. You can move forward better then, balancing your wishes with those of others. This is a month of choosing to get more rest. Cat naps help a lot!

Editor in Chief Dr Marina Nani Head of Finance M. T. Nani Creative Director Darie Nani Deputy Editor Alice Demetriad Executive Assistant to the Editor in Chief Ivayla Dimitrova Digital Director Chris Demetriad Wellness Editor Lesley Calvo Food & Lifestyle Editor Danna Levy- Hoffman Contributing Lifestyle Editors Ysanne Lewis, Alexis Boddy, Lady Renae Jayeola Guest Contributors Fashion Asiya Durran Style Tatjana Kotoric Health & Wellness Anna Cortesi, Anandi, Deborah Hladecek, Klara Debeljak, Patricia Ordody, Martina Fink, Zeenat Noorani, Maggie Bain Women & Society Carla Kaufmann, Claire Corbett, Leslie Kuster, Suzie Poole Lifestyle Helena Zachariassen, Annette Ebbinghaus, Sarah Kopinsky, Gabriella Zoltakova Hjorter, Sandra Deira

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