1
2
C ntents APRIL 2016
March recap
Letters from Ya 7elween readers! 04 Editr’s words The Dream by Dr. H. Farhat
DEPARTMENTS
START APRIL OFF WITH SOME GOOD READS 06 FRAGRANCE AND FROCKS Don’t miss these 2016 gems 08 I FOOLED YOU! Best April Fool’s pranks 10 UNHAPPILY EVER AFTER Written by Dr. Toufic Ajaka 12 FOOD SPOTLIGHT Maroush Restaurant in London 14 LOSE WEIGHT FAST Intermittent Fasting Methods and benefits 16 EASTER HISTORY The original traditions of Easter 18 SPRING CLEANING TIPS Take the short cut
BUNNIES AND CHOCOLATE
Find out what they have to do with Easter and who invented the beloved treat - Peeps
FEATURES
KEEP UP TO DATE WITH OUR SPECIAL FEATURES 20 ZIKA VIRUS 101 What you need to know 22 DO SCHOOL UNIFORMS PREVENT INDIV. Written by Randa Chidiac 22 SPRING A NEW LIFE A beautiful letter by Dr. Laurence Ajaka 23 MARRIAGE written by Dr. Chantal Antoun 24 LEBANESE WOMEN by Dr. Zeina Maalouly 26 BLUEBERRY YUM YUM Try these yummy recipes
WHAT’S THAT SMELL? This Spring’s favorite fragrances
06
16
3
A NEW YOU FOR 2016
Kick your weight loss with Intermittent Fasting
14 WHAT’S TRENDING
SIGHTS AND THOUGHTS OF THE YEAR 31 FURRY HEROES Don’t mess with these ferocious kitties 36 RIDE WITH STYLE 2016 Car show head turners
BEAUTY TRENDS
Adorn your eyes and lips with this year’s hottest color combos
38
38 MAKEUP TRENDS Makeup trends from around the world
INTEREST
Enrich your life 40 PROCRASTINATION Why we do it and how to stop it 42 APRIL FOOL’S Dr. L. Ajaka tells us the history of this day
School Uniforms
Do school uniforms prevent individuality?
22
49 WORKING OUT WITH PURPOSE Staff 50 WE WIL RETURN by Sabah Chahine
4
Editor’sWords The Dream It’s the dream or it’s the destiny or what is between them of reality. I did not know that one day I will be here with you my love and with you my dearest friends. I thought my dream was far from reality. Me, I did not know, but I was feeling that something was missing out of this life, and I was asking myself, why is this life so complicated. There is no similarity nor anything common between us. We don’t understand each other, after philosophical imaginations and Byzantine argument which lasted nearly 2 decades since I left my wounded homeland and arrived to the land of our predecessors” Andalusia”, and then I settled in the land of Uncle Sam “ USA”. After all this intense argument which weakened my body, and broke my heart and tortured my soul, I decided that we should discuss and reconcile (me and the life) between us, which then resulted in a firm agreement, and that we should continue working parallel, this long way journey, and I promised her I won’t bother and she (life) won’t stop me from delivery my mute words and my modest message to whom I love and adore “ the beautiful people “ I was thrown to the uncertainty since I was a little boy, to this new life” Diaspora “, which is dark, painful, and unknown end. Whenever I encountered any minimal problem, immediately I think back of my home village “ Yaroun”, and how I used to enjoy being surrounded by family and neighbors, and the singing of the cock at dawn and how I was amused by listening at the dawn to holly sacred Koran, and To the Voices of our holy church bells song, which made me feel secure and safe, also listening to birds singing in our small frontward which Is so beautiful. Therefore, I became unhappy as well I suffer when a family member die or a neighbor die and I can’t attend their funeral service. I, personally did not know this is going to happen to them once I left my village the first time. But what is attenuate my sorrow is their nice stories. Stayed firmly intact in my memory when I left them for the first time and I left the reality “ my village “and I ended in a journey only God knows when will end and how. It’s seems very feasible to each one of us to achieve the dream in the new life “diaspora” but this is impossible. Is very hard to believe it in this new life, which never is similar to first life. However, might some of us achieve a little dream and you will have a decent life, but your inside refuse it, and won’t accept it easily, as a food that you don’t like to eat, but you obligated to eat to keep growing, but without soul. Why, because the soul is there in the land of prophecies as well as the land of messengers and in the land of grandfathers and the heroes. Still if you don’t achieve your dream in this new adventure “ diaspora “ which was miscalculated don’t let the frustration get to your soul, and keep smiling and be happy if you see and you hear that a family member or a friend achieved his or her dream, because love and good wishes from the heart to another heart it’s a healthy contagious to your body as well your soul. The hope is in tomorrow which will removed the unhappiness from your heart and if you still looking to find your soul, the soul is inseparable from you, please don’t let it detach from your romantic world ،your passionate world and your sentimental world I believe and I hope that this new modest life style magazine “ Ya7elween” which means in Arabic the beautiful people, will constitute an enthusiastic beginning to me and you, and we hope all our dreams in this “Diaspora “will be come true by believe in ourselves and with the help of God.
Featuring
SABAH CHAHINE
MARIE MICHELLE ISHAK
DR. ZEINA MAALOULY
DR. CHANTAL ANTOUN
DR. TOUFIC AJAKA
Go back to your fondest memories with “We will return” written by Sabah Chahine.
Poetry gets no better than this lovely piece written by Marie!
Dr. Zeina tells us about Lebanese women and why they’re so resiliant -- not to mention beautiful.
Dr. Antoun takes us through a short and beautiful piece about love and marriage.
Keep your marriage together with Dr. Toufic’s timelss advice.
5
MARCH RECAP SOUND BITES
LAST MONTH WE EXPLORED MANY WAYS TO GET HEALTHIER THROUGH EATING AND EXERCISE. THIS IS JUST SOME OF THE FEEDBACK WE RECIEVED ABOUT THOSE ARTICLES AND LIFESTYLE PIECES!
YA 7ELWEEN FROM THE TWITTERVERSE Join the conversations at: twitter.com/ya7elween
TWEETS I LOVE Ya 7elween Magazine, it’s full of great info - check it out!
Who knew you could do so much with an avocado. I guess I better run out and buy a few!
Hey guys, check out Ya 7elween’s article on getting fit !
Marcus M. Protein! As a bodybuilder I totally approve of this article in March YA-7ELWEEN ISSUE, find it on ISSU
i ABSOLUTLEY LOVE THE COVER OF LAST MONTH’S COVER - I LOVE CLOVERS. PATRICIA. D
I am so glad you wrote that article about protein. I honestly had no idea about all the different kinds. I’ve always wondered, but never had the bravery to ask.
Couldn’t have found a better image than this sweet picture right here:)
You guys have a reader for life!
Claire D.
Susan B. Grand Rapids, MI
“ HEALTH IS A CROWN ON THE HEAD OF HEALTHY PEOPLE, THAT NO ONE SEES BUT THE ILL ” DR. HASSAN FARHAT
HEY DOLLS FOLLOW YA 7ELWEEN ON ISSU, THEIR MAGAZINE IS REALLY COOL
I WAS FEATURED IN YA 7ELWEEN MAGAZINE EVERYONE!!!
FORTHE RECORD: Rants, ramblings, and random facts from behind the scenes of this issue DID YOU KNOW
Cows have regional accents.
NAACHOS
This is the most craved food by pregnant women.
ONE PENNY
One penny doubled every day equals $5 million dollars in 30 days.
WOW!
Small planes can fly backwards.
6
Contrast
N
THIS YEAR’S FRAGRANCES AND FROCKS ARE ALL ABOUT CONTRAST.
ew York Fashion Week was ablaze with frocks from all major designers. The overwhelming theme this Spring was bold designs with contrasting colors. FEMANINITY
Cut out dresses continue to be one of the hottest fashion trends and this amazing collection has something for every occasion. Stunning long formal evening gowns for prom, short cocktail dresses for homecoming or holidays, and sweet 16 strapless party dresses all with cut out designs that add an intriguing touch of drama.
St. John’s masterful craftsmanship truly shines on this strapless knit gown alight in countless Swarovski crystals and custom-crafted paillettes
to highlight every curve. A built-in bustier provides flattering structure and support, while a deep center-back vent eases movement in the lean column silhouette.
When
1
&
Frocks SLEEVELESS
Open back dresses and backless evening gowns are a red carpet favorite this year. These stunning open back designer gowns are sexy and seductive and available in short prom dress lengths or long formal gowns. You will find backless halter top dresses for prom and open back cocktail dresses for homecoming or holidays in many colors including red, black and gold.
2
Illusion gowns and dresses are one of this year’s most popular looks. These designs let you show off a hint of skin while maintaining a super glamorous and sophisticated style.
7
TOM FORD
Designer Tom Ford has 58 perfumes in our fragrance base. The earliest edition was created in 2006 and the newest is from 2016. Tom Ford fragrances were made in collaboration with perfumers Givaudan, David Apel, Harry Fremont, Sonia Constant, Yves Cassar, Yann Vasnier, Calice Becker, Shyamala Maisondieu, Antoine Maisondieu, Rodrigo Flores-Roux, Olivier Gillotin, Clement Gavarry, Tom Ford and Firmenich.
3
&
Fragrance Collide
4 NYC NO 9.
At Last- a New York Oud. The Arabian Nights come to Noho. To mark the 1-year anniversary of Bond No. 9 headquarters boutique, we had no choice but to unveil our signature scent, Bond No. 9 Perfume Oud, not for a New York neighborhood, but for our NoHo address; a fixed point in the realm of the senses.
RALPH LAUREN
Ralph Lauren always saves the best for last. This beautiful combination of blue and white with a deep V cut is certain to make any head turn!
5
8
WHAT A MUG?
Perfect pay back for that over ruling boss!
YELLOW TEETH ARE BACK
This is perhaps one of the most sinister tricks for April Fool’s -- especially if you are into your pearly whites.
Best April Fools Pranks The best April Fool’s pranks from around the world.
TEARS OF JOY
Caramel covered onions in place of candy apples -- I hope my teeth are never at the end of this stick!
QUENCH YOUR THIRST
Or not! With these jello shooters!
MINTY CHOCOLATE
We vote these - the worst Oreos ever!
9
Share Your Story!
You got a funny April Fool’s story to share! We’d love to hear from you. Here are the rules.
IMAGES Submit a clear image of the elaborate joke.
CREAM FILLED JUNK FOOD Ouch! Krispy Kreme never tasted so bad!
NO NAMES Feel free to use aliases!
WORD LENGTH 250 TO 400 WORDS.
AWARDS Your story may win an award in our upcoming drawing!
WE HAVE YOU SURROUNDED
This person will think again before parking in the handicapped space!
POP GOES THE EXHAUST PIPE!
Though we wouldn’t recommend this! It’s pretty funny :)
GERMAPHOBES UNITE! BIG BEN WATCH
This is the coolest smat watch on the streets today - or not.
This is one way to keep germs off of your things!
10
A CODEPENDENT RELATIONSHIP IS NOT HEALTHY.
MARRYING FOR MONEY IS ONE SURE WAY TO GET DIVORCED QUICK.
AS A COUPLE, YOU DON’ T LIVE IN A VACUUM. YOU’RE PART OF - AND CONTRIBUTE TO EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE AROUND YOU. CHANGES IN SOCIETY, GENDER ROLES, COMMUNITY INTEGRATION, VALUES, BELIEFS AND THE LAW ALL HAVE AN IMPACT.
ACCORDING TO A RECENT SURVEY OF 191 CDFA PROFESSIONALS FROM ACROSS NORTH AMERICA, THE THREE LEADING CAUSES OF DIVORCE ARE “BASIC INCOMPATIBILITY” (43%), “INFIDELITY” (28%), AND “MONEY ISSUES” (22%). “EMOTIONAL AND/ OR PHYSICAL ABUSE.
11
Unhappily Ever After Causes of Unhappy Marriages Due to the recent shift in circumstances and reconfiguration of societies, divorce now has catastrophic impacts on the family. The children lose their homes and suffer from negligence. They no longer live in the affectionate and warm family nest. The concept of family has shrunk as people drifted apart. The loss of any of the two parents is acutely felt, yet it’s spreading like a plague. This is because of the misconceptions about the partnership of marriage, followed by wrong choices and harshness and coldness within the marriage.
by Dr. Toufic Ajaka
Choosing the life partner is a critical milestone of a person’s life because it forms the bedrock of the future family. The million dollar question is who is the right person out of the thousands we meet? How can we choose the one who is compatible physically, mentally and spiritually all in all? Many of the divorces and unhappy marriages we see are due to choosing the wrong person. There are multiple contributing causes: 1. -Loneliness: Many people see their siblings and friends marrying, so they make a rash decision. They are afraid of being left behind and becoming spinsters. 2. - Domestic problems: Marriage is a means of escape from their turbulent homes. 3. - Greed: The choice is based on greed where the partner is chosen because of social and economic considerations. 4. -Failed relationships: A rash decision is taken because of emotional distressed caused by a previous relationship. They
marry to free themselves from their emotional turbulence. 5. - Outer appearance: Often individuals would fall in loved based on looks. They build a fantasy about the perfect partner that will make all their dreams come true. It’s crucial to be prudent about choosing your life partner because it’s a decision that will have a ripple effect on everyone involved. There has to be compatibility in cultural, social and economic aspects as well as shared values. This will bridge the distance between the two and help build a successful marriage. Love is often blind, and an individual is unable to discern the faults in their beloved. This is why we need to listen to logic and critical thinking when choosing the one.
12
FOOD FAVOURITES | DINE IN FOR THE BEST OF YOUR WEEKEND
F
OOD AVOURITES
Maroush offers more than just kebabs. It’s one of a chain of eleven Lebanese restaurants scattered throughout London. Maroush II is halfway along Beauchamp Place – an exotic addition to the chichi dress shops and well-established venues such as San Lorenzo and Borscht ’n’ Tears, which seem to have been here since the year dot.
13
The original Maroush restaurant was opened by Marouf & Houda Abouzaki back in 1981.* This Edgware Road stalwart is even more popular today than it was back then. A lively, twofloor restaurant capable of seating more than 150 guests at a time, Maroush Edgware Road features a casual sit-down area on the main floor, and a larger dining room in the basement. Popular with families earlier in the evening, the crowd changes over to a younger set as the night wears on. One of the two Maroush outlets featuring live Lebanese music and belly dancing in the evenings, the atmosphere at Maroush Edgware Road is upbeat and energetic through to closing time at 2am. A Taste of Lebanon in London. .
14
Experience
FASTING
LOSE WEIGHT FAST BY FASTING
Can you really? And how does it work?
T
things to make the stored energy more accessible. here are many different ways to lose weight.
One that has become popular in recent years is called intermittent fasting . This is a way of eating that involves regular short-term fasts. Fasting for short periods helps people eat fewer calories, and also helps optimize some hormones related to weight control. There are several different intermittent fasting methods. Three popular ones are: 1. The 16/8 Method: Skip breakfast every day and eat during an 8-hour feeding window, such as from 12 noon to 8 pm. 2. Eat-Stop-Eat: Do one or two 24-hour fasts each week, for example by not eating from dinner one day until dinner the next day. 3. The 5:2 Diet: Only eat 500-600 calories on two days of the week, but eat normally the other 5 days. As long as you don’t compensate by eating much more during the nonfasting periods, then these methods will lead to reduced calorie intake and help you lose weight and belly fat. Body fat is the body’s way of storing energy (calories). When we don’t eat anything, the body changes several
This has to do with changes in nervous system activity, as well as a major change in several crucial hormones. Here are some of the things that change in your metabolism when you fast: Intermittent fasting (IF) is currently one of the world’s most popular health and fitness trends. People are using it to lose weight, improve health and simplify their healthy lifestyle.
• Insulin: Insulin increases when we eat. When we fast, insulin decreases dramatically. Lower levels of insulin facilitate fat burning.
• Human growth hormone (HGH): Levels of growth hormone mayskyrocket during a fast, increasing as much as 5-fold. Growth hormone is a hormone that can aid fat loss and muscle gain, among other things. • Norepinephrine (noradrenaline): The nervous system sendsnorepinephrine to the fat cells, making them break down body fat into free fatty acids that can be burned for energy. Interestingly, despite what the 5-6 meals a day proponents wouldhave you believe, short-term fasting may actually increase fat burning.
15
A
ll of the different protocols involve skipping meals during the fasting periods. Unless you compensate by eating much more during the eating periods, then you will be taking in fewer calories. According to a recent 2014 review study, intermittent fasting can lead to significant weight loss. In this review, intermittent fasting was found to reduce body weight by 3-8% over a period of 3-24 weeks. When examining the rate of weight loss, people lost about 0.55 pounds (0.25 kg) per week with intermittent fasting, but 1.65 pounds (0.75 kg) per week with alternate-day fasting . People also lost 4-7% of their waist circumference, indicating that they lost Intermittent fasting belly fat. (IF) is a term for an eating pattern that These results cycles between are very periods of fasting and eating. impressive, and they do show that intermittent fasting can be a useful weight loss aid. All that being said, the benefits of intermittent fasting go way beyond just weight loss. It also has numerous benefits for metabolic health, and may
By making you eat fewer calories, all of these methods should make you lose weight as long as you don’t compensate by eating much more during the eating periods.
even help prevent chronic disease and expand lifespan. Although calorie counting is generally not required when doing intermittent fasting, the weight loss is mostly mediated by an overall reduction in calorie intake. Studies comparing intermittent fasting and continuous calorie restriction show no difference in weight loss if calories are matched between groups.
In my opinion, one of the main benefits of intermittent fasting is the simplicity of it.
I personally do the 16/8 method, where I only eat during a certain “feeding window” each day. Instead of eating 3+ meals per day, I eat only 2, which makes it a lot easier and simpler to maintain my healthy lifestyle.
The 16/8 Method: Also called the Leangains protocol, it involves skipping breakfast and restricting your daily eating period to 8 hours, for example from 1 pm to 9 pm. Then you “fast” for 16 hours in between.
16
Easter History and Traditions Celebrating the creative process of several leading artists
Y
ou won’t find them in the Bible, but many cherished Easter traditions have been around for centuries. The most prominent secular symbol of the Christian holiday, the Easter bunny reportedly was introduced to America by the German immigrants who brought over their stories of an egg-laying hare. The decoration of eggs is believed to date back to at least the 13th century, while the rite of the Easter parade has even older roots. Other traditions, such as the consumption of Easter candy, are among the modern additions to the celebration of this early springtime holiday. EASTER BUNNY The Bible makes no mention of a long-eared, short-tailed creature who delivers decorated eggs to wellbehaved children on Easter Sunday;
nevertheless, the Easter bunny has become a prominent symbol of Christianity’s most important holiday. The exact origins of this mythical mammal are unclear, but rabbits, known to be prolific procreators, are an ancient symbol of fertility and new life. According to some sources, the Easter bunny first arrived in America in the 1700s with German immigrants who settled in Pennsylvania and transported their tradition of an egg-laying hare called “Osterhase” or “Oschter Haws.” Their children made nests in which this creature could lay its colored eggs. Eventually, the custom spread across the U.S. and the fabled rabbit’s Easter morning deliveries expanded to include chocolate and other types of candy and gifts, while decorated baskets replaced nests. Additionally, children often left out carrots for the bunny in case he got hungry from all his hopping. DID YOU KNOW? The largest Easter egg ever made
was over 25 feet high and weighed over 8,000 pounds. It was built out of choclate and marshmallow and supported by an internal steel frame. EASTER EGGS Easter is a religious holiday, but some of its customs, such as Easter eggs, are likely linked to pagan traditions. The egg, an ancient symbol of new life, has been associated with pagan festivals celebrating spring. From a Christian perspective, Easter eggs are said to represent Jesus’ emergence from the tomb and resurrection. Decorating eggs for Easter is a tradition that dates back
The original Peeps were handmade, marshmallowflavored yellow chicks, but other shapes and flavors were later introduced, including chocolate mousse bunnies.
to at least the 13th century, according to some sources. One explanation for this custom is that eggs were formerly a forbidden food during the Lenten season, so people would paint and decorate them to mark the end of the period of penance and fasting, then eat them on Easter as a celebration.
in 1878, when Rutherford B. Hayes was president. The event has no religious significance, although some people have considered egg rolling symbolic of the stone blocking Jesus’ tomb being rolled away, leading to his resurrection.
Easter egg hunts and egg rolling are two popular egg-related traditions. In the U.S., the White House Easter Egg Roll, a race in which children push decorated, hard-boiled eggs across the White House lawn, is an annual event held the Monday after Easter. The first official White House egg roll occurred
Easter is the second best-selling candy holiday in America, after Halloween. Among the most popular sweet treats associated with this day are chocolate eggs, which date back to early 19th century Europe. Eggs have long been associated with Easter as a symbol of new life and Jesus’ resurrection.
EASTER CANDY
Another egg-shaped candy, the jelly bean, became associated with Easter in the 1930s (although the jelly bean’s origins reportedly date all the way back to a Biblical-era concoction called a Turkish Delight). According to the National Confectioners Association, over 16 billion jelly beans are made in the U.S. each year for Easter, enough to fill a giant egg measuring 89 feet high and 60 feet wide. For the past decade, the top-selling non-chocolate Easter candy has been the marshmallow Peep, a sugary, pastel-colored confection. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania-based candy manufacturer Just Born (founded by Russian immigrant Sam Born in 1923).
18
Spring Cleaning Tips One of the biggest parts of spring cleaning is minimizing clutter. There are few rites of spring more satisfying than the annual clean. For many people, however, the pleasure comes only after the work is finished. Your spring cleaning may never become effortless, but you can make the project more manageable -- and even enjoyable. This printable checklist offers an overview of everything you need to know -- including information
The flowers are blooming, the birds are serenading, and our house still feels like it’s stuck with winter blues. Spring cleaning is a tradition that allows us to freshen up our homes and get a head start on the hectic seasons of spring and summer. on cleansers, stain removal, fabric care, and storage -- to zip through the process and arrive at a happy end. After you read through the tips and techniques, tailor the list to your home and yard. Create a realistic schedule, keeping in mind that a single weekend won’t suffice, as you’ll need several days for more involved projects, such as shampooing carpets and organizing closets. Whether you prefer to proceed from the attic to the basement or start outdoors and wind your way inside, focus on one task at a time. And be sure to enlist the help of family members.
19
Hack TWO
Squeegiesc are perfec t fo r cleaning fu from carpet r s and rugs.
Hack THREE
sink pipes ttles on under Hang spray bo r easy access. Clears space fo
Hack ONE
e ters to remov Use coffee fil appliances. om fr st and du fingerprints
Cleaning Hacks
Use these Spring cleaning hacks for a quick clean!
Hack FIVE
Yes dr yer sheets are useful outside of the dr yer! They help im prove the smell of your bathroom.
Hack FOUR
e ebs.Using th sk y spider w the pe s ng hi oe tc th t ra as sc Bl bristles from e th s ep ke towel paintwork.
Hack Six Salt makes a good mild abraisive. Use salt instead of cleanser to clean tough stains off of your iron cook ware.
Hack SEVEN
Shine, shine, shine ! Restore your stainless steel with a sliced lemon.
Hack EIGHT
No more mopping mishaps. Fill your water. bucket with a dustpan and a warm suds. Squirt a little soap in the pan to add
20
RISE OF THE
ZIKA VIRUS In 2015, cases of ZIKV were reported in several Caribbean Islands and Brazil, progressing to an outbreak that spread to the Americas. The outbreak has continued in 2016, with ZIKV reported in an increasing number of countries. The Illness
Z
By Norman Sullivan Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. In 2007, an outbreak of ZIKV occurred on Yap Island in the Federated States of Micronesia. This was the first time that ZIKV was reported outwith Africa and Asia. In October 2013, a large outbreak occurred in French Polynesia, followed by other outbreaks in the Pacific islands of New Caledonia, Cook Islands and Easter Island.
ika virus (ZIKV) was first identifed in April 1947, when fever developed in a research rhesus monkey in the Zika Forest of Uganda. The first well-documented report of human ZIKV infection occurred in 1964, and since then the virus has been identified in humans in countries including:Bangladesh, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Egypt, Gabon, Laos, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the
Your nice caption goes here Another good caption place
Your caption goes here Another caption place
21
Most people infected with ZIKV will have only very mild, or no symptoms. Symptoms usually start 2-12 days after the bite of an infected mosquito and last for 4-7 days. They include: mild fever, headache, red eyes, rash, muscle and joint pains. Other less common symptoms include: loss of appetite, diarrhoea, constipation, abdominal pain and dizziness. Treatment There is no specific treatment for ZIKV infection available. Most people will get better without any treatment. Symptoms like headache and fever can be treated symptomatically. Hospital care is indicated in severe illnesses or if complications arise. Recommendations for Travellers
“Spread into your work and into your life. There are no limits.” There is no medicine or vaccine available that prevents ZIKV infection. The most effective/important way to avoid infection is to prevent mosquito bites by using insect repellents and wearing appropriate clothing. Until the link between ZIKV and birth defects has been established, travellers planning to visit countries with active ZIKV transmission should take the following precautions: All Travellers • Are advised to seek travel advice from a health care provider at least 6-8 weeks in advance of travel, but particularly important if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.
22
Do School Uniforms Prevent Individuality The outcry against school uniforms has always taken the form of nourishing selfexpression and creativity. The supporters consider clothing and accessories as a medium of self-expression and individuality, which even if true, would be a superficial form of expression at best reflecting little of the inner composition of an individual. However, in most cases, teenagers are just following trends in a struggle to fit in since those who dare to stand out with their unique sense of style are often ridiculed. Alternately, there are various other channels for self-expression such as arts, writing, music, dancing, etc.
Rather than being an instrument of oppression, school uniforms are a symbol of belonging. It creates a connection between all students and gives them a sense of unity. It also offers protection for poorer students who are unable to keep up with the latest fashion trends. Many young adolescents are bullied because of this topic, and it would help to protect them, if only marginally, from further taunts.
Uniforms also engrave an important vital lesson of dressing for the occasion. When they start working, they
Individuality or Pack mentality?
are expected to dress and act in a professional way. Instead of focusing on their clothing to make an impression or using their sexuality to get ahead, they have to work on their skills to get noticed. Nurturing these values at a young age will help students in future endeavors, so it’s beneficial to develop it early during the early school years.
Instead of devoting so much time and attention to what they will wear, this energy can better be invested in different outlets that will ultimately benefit the characters of young adolescents.
By Randa Saliba Chidiac
SPRING, A NEW LIFE A beautiful interpretation of Spring by Dr. Laurence Ajaka Spring has long been the symbol of renewal and the birth of new life. With its arrival, humans and nature equally receive succor and regeneration. We move out of the dark corridors of the icy winter into the colorful burst of color and vigor that spring brings forth.
Your caption goes here Another caption place occasional failure.
This rebirth can be more than shedding our winter blues. We can also let go of the metaphorical chains that held our potential with fear and insecurities to experience new challenges, triumphs, and the
Some argue that self-discovery is delving deep inside to peel the layers protecting our essence to reconnect with our divine self. This won’t be easy because these layers have been
23
It is not about conquerors and fortresses. It is not about daffodils and fairytales. Marriage is a compromise in a century of constant trivial confrontations. It is a merged visualization of a family in a century of solitary hovering. Marriage is reverence and uprightness in a world of masks and performances. It is compassion and empathy instead of submission and obedience. It is a space for spirits to propagate not a penitentiary for the minds to bastille and circumscribe.
Marriage is a true gift from God
Appreciate yourr beloved each and every day
It is an oasis where branches bend in order not to break. It is a shoulder to rely on when egocentricity is the center of our universe. It is a micro educational institution which builds generations whose targets are to be gratified instead of possessive. Marriage is not about the mansion but the home. It is not the car but the voyage. It is partaking reminiscences instead of collecting “selfies”. hardened by our outdated thinking patterns, our inaccurate conceptions and the rigorous demands of our daily life. But only by letting go of the old, can we see the beauty and infinite potential of the new.
Some consider I have been solitary for too long that it grew on me, others recognize I have perceived innumerable broken children to dare trod the pathway, but the truth is I am scared stiff. I am petrified of transforming the fruits of my wombs into
Marriage
by Dr. Chantal Antoun those scattered shadows I encounter every day… Marriage is not a love story that ends with a contract. It is a promise to be true to one’s self above all.
24
LEBANESE BEAUTY
25
WORD FROM OUR EDITORS This wonderful piece by Dr. Maalouly is both empowering and encouraging to women all around the world.
LEBANESE WOMEN We are Beautiful, Strong, Independent and Powerful! By Dr. Zeina Zaidan Maalouly
ebanese women are considered some of the most beautiful in the world. Unlike many of the neighboring countries, women have a fair share of liberty. Even though Muslims make up 59% of the population, the majority of women are not conservative.
L
Because Lebanon has been in trade with all neighboring continents, many mixed marriages occurred. That means women come in different shapes and colors. Most are tanned and dark haired with brownish eyes, but it’s common to see women with pale skin and colorings. Beauty is a priority, and whether conservative or not, they take care of themselves and dress in a very feminine fashion. Family life and values are core cornerstones for these women. They are just as likely to be spending a night on town as home with
their extended families. They tend not to laze around home, and go on many outdoors activities. There might be limits especially for Muslim women, but they generally have the freedom to explore and have exciting experiences such as traveling. More than 56% of women pursue higher education degrees. Great strides have been made to achieve gender equality in the work force. It’s very common that women combine both successful careers and marriages. There is a degree of deference to men, but not to the point they cannot voice their opinions and make some individual choices. Sexuality is still a grey area. Lebanese women are known to be sensual people in bed. Traditionally, women were to remain virgins until marriage. Because of the frequency of cheating, women are now dating before
26
10 blueberry masterpieces
27
YUM!
Blueberries! Blueberry recipes to up your vitamin C intake and tantilize your taste buds.
28
The Big Picture INSPIRATION FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD
29
Spring Love This is one of the most beautiful hidden spots on Earth. The world is full of beautiful places that are just waiting to be discovered. Each month we will highlight a new location for you to imagine yourself in.
30 Claire Nelson of Reading, Pennsylvania, adopted Rusty as an adult cat from the Humane Society. Two years later, in June of 2011, Nelson wanted to lay down because she wasn’t feeling well, but Rusty kept bothering her, which was out of character for him. The 66-year-old former nurse took inventory and decided to visit her doctor’s office, but Nelson began feeling much worse at the bus stop and called 911. Doctors at the hospital found that she had suffered a heart attack!
In 2014, Amy Jung went down to the Door County (Wisconsin) Humane Society shelter to play with the cats. Jung was not planning to adopt one, but went home with two. Pudding, a 21-pound cat, stood out and seem drawn to Jung. She took him and another cat named Wimsy home with her. Later that night, Jung suffered a diabetic seizure in her sleep. Pudding jumped up on her and woke her up enough to call out to her son Ethan, but he was asleep. So Pudding ran to Ethan’s room and jumped on him to wake him up. Ethan was able to get his mother medical attention, but she might have sunk into a coma without intervention.
Kitty Heros (and heroines)
Finally, some proof that cats aren’t total jerks who don’t care about their owners.
episodes thanks to Pretty Pippa, according to the RSPCA. Cat win.
Early last month, a Portland woman said her cat saved her life when a fire broke out in her mobile home. The brave pussy meowed until the woman woke up and realized her home was ablaze, according to KGW. She and the kitten made it out safely. That’s a cat win.
Late last year, Missouri resident Erna Pratt started having stroke symptoms. She called out to her daughter, but her daughter was asleep. So she asked her 13-year-old cat Trigger to wake her daughter up. Trigger did exactly that, according to Yahoo News, and Pratt’s daughter was able to call 911 just in time.
In March, the Internet went crazy for rescue cat Pretty Pippa, who has saved her young owner Mia’s life more than 20 times. Ever since Pretty Pippa was rescued, she’s been waking 8-yearold Mia up when her blood sugar gets dangerously low. Mia, who suffers from diabetes, has avoided several hypoglycemic
Of course, we can’t do a hero cat story without mentioning Pudding who, just hours after adoption, saved her owner’s life by nipping at her to wake her from a diabetic seizure. It worked, and Amy Jung regained consciousness just long enough to call for help.
31 A fire broke out in Brooklyn. A cat later named Scarlett was observed carrying her kittens out of the building one by one. She was severely burned. She touched each kitten with her nose to make sure they were all safe from the fire, then collapsed. The hospital received 7000 applications to adopt Scarlett and her kittens.
That’s Jack the cat protecting his owners yard in West Milford, New Jersey from a visiting black bear. When the bear first came into the yard Jack went after him and scared him up a tree. Finally, worried for his safety Jack’s owners called him back into the house and the bear went away.
MASHA
Masha is a communal cat who is looked after by local residents.
She is very placid and friendly, so when I heard her meowing, I thought that perhaps she had injured herself,” said Obninsk city resident Irina Lavrova. “Normally she would have come and said hello to me. You can imagine my shock when I saw her lying in a box next to a baby.” Eat your heart out, Lassie! Masha, a long-haired tabby cat, saved the life of a baby abandoned in the streets of Russia — after she climbed into the box he was discarded in and kept him warm, health officials said. “The baby had only been outside for a few hours and thanks to Masha … he was not damaged by the experience,” a hospital spokesman told Central European News. The whiskered hero even meowed to get the attention of a passerby. “She is very placid and friendly, so when I heard her meowing, I thought that perhaps she had
Masha is a communal cat who is looked after by local residents. When she found
the baby — who appeared to be in great shape — she immediately took to him as if he were her own. “Clearly her mothering instincts had taken over and she wanted to protect the child,” Lavrova explained. “He was welldressed with a little hat, and whoever left him here had even left a few nappies and some baby food.”
32
go
RidewithStyle
A peak at the many cars from the Detroit and New York Car Show 2016!
At most every auto show, we curate a list of must-see debuts and concept cars that every car enthusiast, car shopper, and casual observer should know about. This is not that list. Instead, this is a collection of thoughts on which New York auto show cars and news tidbits have us wiggling in our chairs with anticipation. Some of the items are pretty obvious—if you’re not excited by the 640-hp Camaro ZL1, for example, check your pulse—but others aren’t specific to a car, instead they’re indicative of broader shifts within brands.
RidewithStyle
Acura, eager to cash in on the NSX’s headline-grabbing looks and performance, has distilled an aspect of that supercar’s powertrain into the MDX crossover Hybrid.
After first showing its U.S.-spec Giulia sedan in fire-breathing Quadrifoglio, Alfa Romeo has finally revealed the pedestrian Giulia models for the American market.
Miata’s snappy styling and the “Retractable Fastback” folding-roof mechanism’s novelty and enrapturing motorized complexity.
33
Detroit Car Show 2016 Another North American International Auto Show is in the bag, and while it wasn’t as mind-blowing as last year’s event—recall that Ford absolutely owned the 2015 Detroit show after it debuted a trifecta of es performance Sed ut res plitnus machines—there were still plenty of exciting new-car and concept-car reveals. Between stunning, brandredefining concept cars like Acura’s Precision and Buick’s Avista and critical new production cars such as the Chevrolet Bolt, the Lincoln Continental, and the Chrysler Pacifica, there was plenty to talk about. Here we present the 12 must-see premieres from the 2016 Detroit auto show. Whatever kind of car piques your imagination, or jogs your memory, the show will probably be displaying them.
One of the New York show’s biggest surprises was the unveiling of the next arrow in the Genesis luxury brand’s quiver, a rear-wheel-drive sports sedan with obvious BMW 3-series pretense.
When it was announced that Toyota was shuttering its Scion sub-brand, our minds immediately raced to the FR-S sports car, which was developed jointly between Toyota and Subaru.
They come in all shapes, sizes, models and classes, including classic, modified, antique, muscle, import, exotic, low rider, street rod and rat rod, among others.
34
5 Picks BOLD MAKEUP LOOKS FOR SPRING 2016.
The future beauty trends from the Paris, Milan, London and New York Fashion Week runways
Every girl loves to play up her looks, and using make up is a great way to do this. Even though applying any make up may be simple enough, with bold make up it’s a little different.
01 Any chalkier, traditional shadow lends itself (particularly in a royal-blue family) to a smoky-eye look. And when all else fails, turn to Burberry Wet & Dry Silk Shadow in No. 307 Stone Blue, proving the one point denim has been trying to make for years.
02 Now for those seductive smokey eyes. Choose a color theme(colors in the same color range, such as a sliver, grey and black) and make sure your brushes are clean. Always start of with the lightest color, and blend in the center.
35
03 Apply a bold red all over the lip and then blot any access off on a tissue and dust a thin layer of translucent powder on top to set it for even longer staying power.
04 ALWAYS use two different makeup brushes when you apply blue eyshadow. Dillon recommends an eye shading brush for the lid and a blending brush for the crease. Be sure to clean them often.
05 If you have a warm undertone, you should choose a concealer with a golden or orange base, depending on your hue. If you’re more on the yellow side, look for concealers with a golden base.
36
THE MAIN SPOTLIGHT
STOP BEING A PROCRASTINATOR!
W
eIn September 2014, two British professors wanted to find out what happens when students do not hand over their assignments on time. Their study threw up an alarming surprise, which, if the students knew, would make them give up procrastination forever.
Perhaps, all of us procrastinate at some of the times. While some of us do it more, and some less, but the truth is none of us do it all
of the time.
First, the professors David Arnott and Scott Dacko decided to define the procrastinators as the ones who wouldn’t submit their end-of-term tasks until the last day. Then they dipped into five years of submission data on 777 marketing students from their own Warwick Business School, and found that while each of these students had four weeks or more to hand over their assignments, only about a hundred had done so before
the last day. The rest (669 of them) waited out until the last 24 hours to submit their task. That is, 86% of them were procrastinators. In a different study at the University of Vermont done in 1984, it was found that 46% of the students had reported they procrastinate writing academic papers. But even that figure might not the surprise all of you. Students are known to be ‘natural-born’ procrastinators to school homework across the world. Everybody knows how busy the lives of young collegegoers can be. So, 86% could seem unsurprisingly normal.
The real surprise uncovered itself in the final 24 hours. As they analyzed the data, Arnott and Dacko found a disturbing pattern emerge as the last day of the submission had begun. The students taking another hour from here on started getting lower marks. It was happening by the hour. For example, someone who submitted at 3pm got lower marks than those who did at 2pm. It was as if every passing hour was chipping away their scores. The worse the procrastination, the worse were the marks. So
37
HOT TOPIC clear was the pattern that those who handed in their assignments at the last minute, had the worst grades of all. In fact, these last-minute guys saw a full 5% drop in their marks over those who had checked in their tasks before the start of the last day. Habitual procrastination could damage relationships, create an unflattering reputation of carelessness, and invite setbacks in career and work prospects. The big culprit here is regret. It’s a story that goes around in a predictable circle: Procrastinators begin with hope, then go into anxiety, guilt and selfcriticism, and end up in regret. Next project, same cycle. Procrastination is not taking action. It is avoiding starting something you mean to start. It is avoiding finishing something you’re supposed to finish. It is doing something else, or lots of something else, when you know you should be doing a certain important thing. Experts classify it into two types – decisional (putting off taking decisions) and avoidant (putting off doing things).
The three main areas of our life that we procrastinate on are education, career and health. The main reasons that make procrastination likely are: Uninteresting: We delay doing it till eternity because we find the work utterly boring and without any fun. Low Confidence: We don’t feel sure of our abilities and presence that we can tackle something effectively. Anxiety: We have often felt that when a deadline is right upon us, we end up procrastinating more. us to procrastinate. service. Goal Problems: When the goals are not clear, or the goals lie too far into the future, or there are no goals at all, we procrastinate. Perfectionism: People who search for perfection often end up procrastinating. How Can We Beat Procrastination With Science? Simple! Only take on what you feel comfortable with. If this isn’t working, break your big goals into smaller ones.
Good things don’t always come to those who… procrastinate.
38
April Fool’s Day is a tradition practiced all around the world on April 1st of each year even though it has never been declared an official holiday in any country. Some people will play pranks on others or lie in jest. Sometimes, even newspapers and other publications would run false stories that are later on retracted.
By Dr. Laurence Ajaka
K
eep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.
The first reference to a
each other.
similar holiday goes back
Year’s was switched from April 1st to January 1st. This
to the Roman Hilaria day to
The most recent origin for
change took some time to
celebrate the resurrection
this day can be traced to the
get used to, and many kept
of the goddess Attis. Holi is
year 1582 when the Pope
celebrating on April 1st.
a Hindu celebration where
Gregory XIII decreed the
They are the one who got
people play pranks by
switching from the Julian to
ridiculed and pranked. Even
throwing colorful dyes on
the Gregorian calendar. New
when the calendar became
39
T
he Persians also had a similar day called Sizdahbedar dedicated for
mischief.
became acceptable by all,
acceptable and humorous,
the day was still dedicated
if only for a day, can make
to hilarity and amusement.
it more acceptable for
The spirit of April Fool’s Day
people to lie all the time.
was supposed to be one
Most people would consider
The pranks played can also
of joviality and harmless
this day as harmless. For
be very mean and hurtful.
pranks, but it has since
them, it’s a day for laughter
Some would go overboard
been twisted and abused by
and being lighthearted.
and focus on getting a
many. The fleeting laughers
However, lying is a sin no
laugh regardless of how the
you get from the day are
matter how you look at it.
person being pranked feels.
not equal to the downside it
They sometimes produce
Being the source of ridicule
presents. There are plenty of
grave consequences and
can be traumatic to people.
ways to celebrate and have
can easily turn serious.
It only takes one incident to
fun without resorting to lies
Allowing lies to be
brand a person in a certain
and mean pranks.
way and scar them for life.
40
WANT TO WRITE FOR YA 7ELWEEN MAG? We welcome writers from all backgrounds to participate in the growth of Ya 7elween Magazine. If you have something interesting to write about in any of the following topics, contact us, we’d love to hear from you: - Fashion - Food - Lifestyle Tips - Poetry - Relationship Advice
For consideration: submissions@ya7elweenmagazine.com
www.ya7elweenmagazine.com
Keep it 7elwee!
Mag azine
facebook.com/ya7elween
twitter.com/ya7elween
BXD CREATIVE MAGAZINE TEMPLATE 04 WWW.YOURDOMAIN.COM ISSUE 04 - WINTER 2015
41
ياحلوين
BXD CREATIVE MAGAZINE TEMPLATE 04 WWW.YOURDOMAIN.COM ISSUE 04 - WINTER 2015
Mag azine
42
DID U KNOW??
INTEREST A small collection of interesting 2016 tidbits!
SILENCE IS MORE IMPORTANT TO THE BRAIN THAN WE PREVIOUS THOUGHT In silence the brain is able to let down its sensory guard and restore some of what has been ‘lost’ through excess noise.
SHHHHH
Music has the power to invoke complex emotions and psychological states. Various researchers have shown that both listening to music and playing a musical instrument increases memory capacity. Playing a musical instrument also teaches you patience and perseverance for it takes time and effort to learn to play a musical instrument. It also sharpens your concentration.
If you are lonely, depressed, anxious, or bored, just open your newspaper and solve a crossword puzzle. This will help you to relax, keep your mind engaged, and just have fun! If you are not a puzzle person, you don’t have to be. Just give crossword puzzles a try and you’ll be hooked in no time!
Wherever you go, take a book with you. When I leave the house, I always make sure to have my drivers license, my keys and my book, at a minimum. The book stays with me in the car, and I take it into the office and to appointments and pretty much everywhere I go, unless I know I definitely won’t be reading (like at a movie). If there is a time when you have to wait (like at a doctor’s office or at the DMV), whip out your book and read. Great way to pass the time.
43
TOPICS Travelling is not just a way to kill your boredom- there’s lot more to it than that. Travelling can really boost your intelligence.
TR AVEL !!! The physical and mental workouts involved with travelling, rid your mind of stress. As you become stress-free, you are more able to focus on tasks, observations, and deepening your understanding of subjects. Every new place you travel to offers new things to learn. You encounter diverse people, food, culture, lifestyle and society while travelling, which puts you in touch with ideas you might never have thought of previously. Give your brain a workout
Unlike drinking alcohol every day, drinking black coffee actually improves your liver. It’s been shown that people who drink four or more cups of coffee a day (24+ oz., or two “Tall” cups from Starbucks) have as much as an 80% lower rate of cirrhosis of the liver. People who drink this same amount also have as much as a 40% lower rate of developing liver cancer.
Regularly exercising your brain maintains its growth and can even spur development of new nerve connections that will help improve memory. Exercise encourages the brain to work at an optimum level by stimulating nerve cells to multiply, thus strengthening their interconnections and protecting them from damage. Memory, like muscular strength, requires you to exercise it for the best functioning. The more you use your brain, the better you’ll be able to process and grasp information. Challenge your brain with puzzles and games and try new challenging tasks that will make you flex your brain muscles.
44
WORKING OUT WITH PURPOSE
45
You’ve most likely, at one point in the fairly recent past, thought to yourself: “I really should be going to the gym more often.” You even decide to bite the bullet and sign up for a membership. You break out your hoodie and sweatpants, dust off your sneakers, and walk through the door…only to realize you don’t really have any idea where to start. You know you should be going to the gym, but you don’t know what to do now that you’re actually there. Before you start working toward some arbitrary goal just because you feel like you should, think about what it is you hope to accomplish in this new venture.
Lose Weight Perhaps the most common reason people join a gym is they realize they’ve gained way too much weight over the years.
On the other hand, maybe you want to actually gain weight. Of course, there’s a difference between gaining weight by eating a dozen donuts every day and by lifting weights (Hint: One is much healthier for you). When you gain weight in the form of muscles, you’re really replacing fatty tissue with muscle mass. Though you may have heard people say “muscle weighs more than fat,” what they mean is muscle is denser. In other words, 200 pounds of muscle weighs the same as 200 pounds of fat – but a muscular body is much more trim and lean. At any rate, you want to avoid isometric exercises that only strengthen one area of your body. If you’re aiming to gain weight, you should focus on compound exercises such as squats and bench presses that work core muscles in various capacities. And, of course, never, ever, skip leg day.
If this is the case, you will want to perform exercises that are specifically intended to help you trim your excess fat stored away throughout your body.
Boost Stamina
This is definitely not something that can be done at a leisurely pace.
Building stamina actually goes hand-in-hand with losing weight, so you should follow most of the same guidelines mentioned above.
You’ll eventually want to check out some of HIIT (high-intensity interval training) methods available, and see which one best suits your needs. But before you dive into such an intense regimen, get a feel for what your body is ready for. Once you have a baseline for your abilities, get ready to push yourself to the max if you want to lose the excess weight you’ve been carrying around.
Gain Weight
Perhaps you realized you needed to hit the gym after you ran up a flight of stairs and needed to stop halfway to catch your breath.
One of the most important things to focus on when building stamina is to avoid routine. If you’re just going through the motions and barely breaking a sweat, you’re not pushing your body to its fullest potential. As long as you’re able to push harder, you should be. Maintenance and Rehab Perhaps the only time you shouldn’t
push yourself as hard as possible is when you’re rehabilitating your body after an injury. During this time, your focus should be on getting back to baseline and maintaining a steady regimen. Hopefully, you’ll be able to enlist the help of a physical or occupational therapist to help you get back to your normally-functioning self. These specialists know the best path to take on your road to recovery, so it’s best to consult with them after sustaining an injury before you start working out again. You don’t want to risk reinjuring yourself and spending even more time laid up on the couch. After successfully rehabilitating an injury, don’t just stop working out. Take a look at other improvements you could make to your body, and make the moves you promised yourself you would after you hurt yourself in the first place.
46
THANKS!
Thank you to all of our readers!
Follow Ya 7elween on Issuu!
Mag azine
BXD CREATIVE MAGAZINE TEMPLATE 04 WWW.YOURDOMAIN.COM ISSUE 04 - WINTER 2015