bazaar July 2021 issue

July 2021 | Issue #258

www.bazaar.town

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Int

Usually, the July intro is all about traveling and places to go and things to do while abroad, but this year (just like last year) most of the country is staying put, either because of logistical reasons, or because of the astronomical prices of tickets, or simply because a lot of people are afraid of the increased risk of catching the damn virus while traveling and who wants to have to quarantine for two weeks while on holiday?

The bazaar team...

So, we’ve decided to focus on our personal wellbeing. We’re making sure that we’re eating well, staying active and reaching out to friends to make sure that they are ok.

More importantly, we always believe that a great story is good for the soul. This is why we sat down with New York Film Academy graduate and award-winning film director Nourah Al Hasawi to get Up Close and Personal. She told us more about why she decided to become a filmmaker and how her short film Courage came to life. From soulful stories to soulful eating, we met up with honorary bazaarite Farah Barakat in Truth or Dare, a certified nutritionist who specializes in PCOS and how food can be used for healing. Whether you are fighting an illness or completely healthy, you need to make sure you are getting your daily requirements of Omega, and what better way to do that than by indulging in sushi? We have fallen in love with the new menu additions at Maki. From Nori chips to mini donuts, we’re eating our way to health and happiness.

Alia Al Duaij

We were a little bit worried about spending more time at home until we realized that we could give our spaces a mini (or major) facelift from the latest H&M Home Summer collection. The natural materials like rattan, terracotta and Himalayan nettle are giving us major resort vibes and are just what we needed. And to take it one step further, we are adding function as well as form with a little help from MUJI’s compact life collection to help us add fun as well as organization into our summer plans.

We are trading wings for new wheels because adventures can be had wherever we may be. The Land Cruiser is one of Toyota’s most iconic models and after a long wait, the new model has arrived. As amazing as it always has been, but with improvements in safety, technology, comfort, and power. Porsche, on the other hand collaborated with local fashion design brand Rapture to add color and joy to the ever-so-special Porsche Macan. You can get your hands on bright accessories which include card holders and mirror hangers, embroidered with the Porsche logo made from recycled materials and vegan leathers.

If whimsy and fun delight you, then you are going to love H&M Men’s collaboration that uses the Keith Haring’s iconic pop art on streetwear. For those of you that prefer something more classic, then definitely make a note in your calendar because come September, the Swedish fashion giant is dropping a collab collection with Japanese cult brand Toga Archives.

There’s always something to look forward to, and we’re focusing on that with our special Summer In The 965 Series. Yes, better days are ahead and until then, we know that good content will get us there.

Happy reading!

Ahmed El-Adly

Boss

Ahmed El-Adly

Editor

Operations Manager Ihab Youssef

Content Manager Yasmine El Charif

Mixed Media Solutions Jennifer Cádiz

Design

Shadi Mofeed

Staff Writer/Online Media Mariam Raslan Yasmin Gamal

Communications Hala Y. Sharara

Interns

Samar Al-Tourah

Syndicates & Sources Fast Company LA Times MCT International Newsweek

Printing

members of:

British Industries for Printing and Packaging w w w. b p aw w. c o m The views expressed in bazaar magazine are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily shared by the magazine or its staff (but sometimes they are).

tel.2571 6122 info@bazaar-magazine.com www.bazaar.town | Zahra Complex, Salmiya. 8th floor, office 35 @bazaargram bazaarmagazine @bazaartweets

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INDEX JULY 2021 28

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SUMMER IN THE 965

NOURAH AL HASAWI

From the looks of it, summer is looking like a whole load of Netflix series, Talabat, and tanning. If you’re ready to shake things up, we got your summer plans lined up, ready for you to enjoy. Bring on an eventful summer!

We spoke to New York Film Academy graduate and award-winning film director Nourah Al Hasawi to get Up Close and Personal. She told us more about why she decided to become a filmmaker and how her short film Courage came to life.

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PORSCHE RAPTURE

LAND CRUISER

TOGA ARCHIVES

Porsche Centre Kuwait, Behbehani Motors Company, tapped Kuwait’s fashion and accessory designers, Dana Al-Mutairi and Ghala Al-Hajri through their brand Rapture, to create a range of street fashion accessories for Macan customers. Made from recycled material and vegan leather, the collection is inspired by Kuwait’s modern culture.

Mohamed Naser Al Sayer and Toyota launched the eagerly-awaited new generation of the iconic Land Cruiser in Kuwait. The all-new Land Cruiser combines outstanding all-terrain performance with a spacious, high-quality interior to bring drivers and passengers an elevated experience on every trip.

FARAH BARAKAT Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that can disrupt the lives of people who suffer from it. This month we spoke to Farah Barakat, the Nutty Nutritionist who can help you heal by choosing the right food and beciming a better listener to your body.

H&M announced a unique collaboration with the Tokyobased independent luxury label TOGA. TOGA, founded

by Yasuko Furuta, already has a devoted international fan base for its experimental takes on wardrobe classics.

The collection will comprise exciting reimaginings of TOGA’s archival hits for men and women, given contemporary twists.

84 JUMEIRAH MESSILAH BEACH HOTEL & SPA This summer, Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa is inviting us to international culinary escapades, refreshing experiences that can be enjoyed poolside, and a tropical themed Friday brunch at the Garden Café. Don’t settle for a boring summer when you can live your best life at Jumeirah Messilah Beach & Hotel Spa.

110 MAKI Maki have been treating us to exciting and innovative Japanese cuisine for almost two decades. They’re always full of surprises, and this time we’re getting some new menu items. Bazaar had a sneak peek at the new menu, and we have two hints for you; nori chips and mini sushi donuts.

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bazaar connect Freedom to find us

30,000 readers

With a bilingual audience of both English and Arabic, we cover everything from what’s on, to the bizarre. We print and distribute 10,000 copies of bazaar every month; each copy is read by an average of 3 people, giving us a total readership of over 30,000. bazaar is published every month (with a double issue for July/ August), delivered free of charge to a large subscriber database, and distributed free of charge in all of the following locations: Cafés & Eateries

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Starbucks Outlets: Abdullah Mubarak Adeliya Airport Mall Al Mowasat Hospital Al Shaya Head Office Aliya & Ghalia Complex Andalouse Coop AUK Bairaq Mall Baitak Tower Behbehani Complex Bida’a Complex BMW Showroom Daiya Co-op Dar Al Awadi Divonne, Abu Hassaniya Four Points by Sheraton Hilton Resort Jabriya Kaifan Khalifa Resort

Kout Mall Marina Crescent Marina Mall Mishref NBK Nuzha Co-op Plaza Hawalli Rosa Castle Salhiya Salmiya, Salem Al-Mubarak Salmiya Co-op Salwa Co-op Scientific Center Seif Hospital Shaab Shamiya Co-op Sharq Co-op Sheikha Complex Sheikh Saed Al Abdullah Terminal Shuwaikh Zain Headquarters Souk Sharq The Avenues The Palms Hotel Zahra Co-op

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what's trending July 2021

#1

#4

What: @hearingpalestine_ Info: It’s time to listen and hear what Palestine has to say.

Editor’s Note: Very informative and draws awareness towards Palestine.

What: @documentingpalestine Info: Exploring Palestine identity through past, present, and future; from exile to return.

Editor’s Note: The posts enrich and glorify Palestinian identity.

#2 What: @breakthestigma.kw Info: Raising awareness about mental health and aiming to reduce the stigma revolving around it.

Editor’s Note: Very short and precise but very valuable to take notice of mental health.

#5

#3

What: @feministsofkuwait Info: A collection of interviews about people’s take on feminism.

Editor’s Note: The different perspectives on feminism drawn from society is a real eye opener.

What: @feministsoftomorrowkw Info: Sexism experiences seen and shared in Kuwait Editor’s Note: The experiences shared on the account knowledgeable towards sexism seen in Kuwait.

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SUMMER IN THE

965

GET YOUR ARTISTIC JUICES FLOWING

By bazaar staff

Is your inner artist lacking? Consider doing some cool artistic workshops and experiences, maybe even find a new hobby. You never know you may even surprise yourself, and have fun while you’re at it.

Al Sadu House Workshops The Al Sadu House offers multiple opportunities to shop, learn, and even better, weave! Al Sadu house is a Kuwaiti treasure offering prime artifacts and antiques, but over the years it became a place where artistic expression blossomed. They offer weaving workshops where you can learn different tactics and patterns. If you are more interested in purchasing they also have multiple exhibitions a year where you can find Kuwait’s local artist’s work! But again, carrying along a skill not most acquire is an accomplishment, not to mention that also brings serenity to the mind (once you get the hang of it). Keep a close eye on their website at www.alsadu.org.kw or their instagram @Saduhouse for openings for exhibitions and workshops.

Yadawi Glass Be able to become a glass-making pro by going to the Yadawi Workshops! Accessible to anyone of any age, Yadawi is an interesting yet exhilarating way to create art. Don’t think you are being held down just to glass making, Yadawi also offers an opportunity to learn how to make beads (yes, you heard it, make beads!) by teaching different tactics and designs. And if you’re struggling to keep your kids entertained in the summer, Yadawi has got it all. They are starting summer camps where kids can visit all artistic techniques, making it a place for all. To know what new things Yadawi has coming your way, check out their instagram @Yadawi.

ArtnDine Love painting? Big time foodie? Combine the two and you’ve got ArtnDine. ArtnDine is a fun and light art class held in Kuwait’s most esteemed restaurants. Enjoy a lovely meal as you paint strokes of vibrant colors on a canvas, who wouldn’t love that? With new mentors every week, you are able to learn new tactics and take each of those tactics with you on your art journey. It’s a great way to meet new people who share the same mutual love for art and food (basically an art in itself). Wanna go to one of their workshops?

Drop them a visit on instagram @Artndinekw.

Dews Studio Be able to customize your own tableware by 28

taking a ride to Dews Studio. Dews Studio is a pottery studio where you can learn how to manage, craft, and design your own ceramics. It’s unseemingly relaxing even if you struggle or end up with a blob of clay it is worth the unwinding experience. While you stay mesmerized by the clay reforming by the second you also get to enjoy the sun-gleaming room covered in cute and chic decorations all around. Dews Studio is also very flexible, they take walk-ins if you Whatsapp 99925028. Additionally, they have 6-week-long programs about the ins and outs of pottery. If you’re more interested in becoming a pottery pro, keep up with their instagram @Dewdrop79 and visit their location in Salmiya.

Watercolor, Calligraphy, and More Self-taught artist Philip Kamble shares his tricks of the trade with the rest of Kuwait. Philip has multiple workshops where he guides eager artists on how to watercolor, paint with soft pastels, and write in calligraphy. Philip does not fail to excite the artists with new spins like watercoloring and collages together, creating something eccentric and all around beautiful. Philip’s classes

resonate with his art, it’s loose, amusing, and about perspective. Philip’s classes are insightful and easy to participate in, just show up! For more information and recurring updates about classes by peeking at his instagram @Philip_kamble and his website www.philipkambleart.com for astonishing art for sale as well as more details about his classes.

Karaoke Melemele offers an exciting opportunity to sing your heart out, enjoy aesthetically pleasing scenery, and to get loose with friends and family.

Seen in the Palms resort, Melemele also offers packages for events such as birthdays, bridal showers, baby showers, and even parties in general. With the choice of numerous well known songs, Melemele is an experience all ages and all people enjoy. It brings together loved ones with the mutual love of a cringeworthy ballad. Check out their website at www.melemelekaraoke.com and socials @melemelekaraoke.

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up close & personal

NOURAH AL HASAWI Courage is knowing what not to fear By bazaar staff

Choosing a career in the creative fields is almost never a calculated decision. Instead, passion, interest and curiosity become powerful drivers on a bumpy road toward realizing interesting projects. When Nourah Al Hasawi was younger she thought that studying business might be the smart, stable and right choice, until she stumbled into the world of filming.

Through the medium she has found self-expression and has already won multiple awards for her Thriller/Horror Short film, Courage.

The film opens with a young woman praying.

Sirens go off in the distance, and she is visibly distraught. We follow her as she grapples with her personal issues and mental health. There is beautiful play with colors and light to show a shift in the mood and tempo, as well as the main character, Aliya’s feelings.

Nourah explains that Aliya’s dealing with Islamophobia, as well as being alone as a foreign student in the US. She wanted to highlight the fear, anxiety and paranoia that people have to deal with when they feel that they are a minority, especially one that is visibly marked with the hijab.

Nourah stumbled into the film world as an amateur. “I started filming, and just taking casual home videos for my teachers in high school. They asked , ‘Can you direct this video, can you shoot this?’ especially for my Arabic class.” Once I started editing, I was very interested,” Nourah says. She had also started watching many behind-the-scenes documentaries that showed how directors worked and movies were made. The more she watched, the more interested she became.

By the end of high school, she knew that she wanted to dive into the deep end and become a professional filmmaker.

There was some resistance to the idea, as extended family members tried to dissuade her, telling her that she might not find a job later or that it wasn’t a stable career. But Nourah was already determined, so she packed her bags for Los Angeles and embarked on her biggest 30

adventure yet. The experience for her was liberating, she was no longer living up to other people’s expectations or being compared to siblings. Instead, she had carved a little space in the world where she could be creative and focus on her own craft.

Courage was her thesis project for the New York Film Academy. In the Fall of 2019 she had already submitted her treatment (proposal for the project) and by December the script was written and auditions had started. Finding the perfect actor to play the part was important for Nourah. She wanted someone who understood the culture as well as looked the part. The movie was shot over a couple of days in February of last year, fortuitously just before the world was plunged into lock down. Over the next couple of weeks, there was a lot of editing to do as well as several screenings, so it could be corrected and tweaked. It is an intense and involved project that Nourah found exciting and exhilarating.

When she was done, her professors insisted that she submit her short movie to different festivals. At first she was hesitant, then decided to do it anyway. But then the awards started rolling in. She is still surprised by how well Courage has been received but the accolade closest to her heart is the “Best Women’s Issue Short” from the Dubai Indie Film Festival. Nourah values being recognized and appreciated by the people who would understand the most what she was trying to depict in her film.

Nourah has also produced a couple of films and music videos at school and out of school and finds it just as engrossing. Juggling several balls at once is something that she seems to enjoy and excel at. “I’ve been interested in producing because, [you have] more connections and you discover new locations and can negotiate which according to my friends I’m very good at,” she explained.

Nourah would love to expand her short film into a full feature. With the longer runtime, she could fully explore topics that are often ignored by mainstream media. She would love to follow one woman’s journey from her country of origin in the Middle East to settling into student life stateside. The film would be shot in multiple countries and show the dualities of culture, expectations and human connection.

The Doha Film Institute in Qatar commissioned a study which found that 26% of independent Arab filmmakers are women,

and that number has been steadily rising.

Female directors bring something different to the screen. They have shown wider range, depth of sensitivity as well as an openness to different experiences. They tackle topics that men might not even notice and are ok with raw and uncomfortable emotion. Just consider Lebanese Nadine Labaki, Saudi Haifa Al Mansour or Tunisian Moufida Tlatli.

This is the right time for Nourah and her generation to be making movies for us. We are ready to start consuming media that has been created by a more diverse and representative cast and crew that understands that the audience is ready for a new kind of film. And we’re sure that they are ready to start making movie magic for us.

[Continued...]

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up close & personal

UP CLOSE & PERSONAL QUESTIONNAIRE What do you most value about your friends?

Their honesty.

Which living person do you most admire?

My mother.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

There really is no such thing as perfection. Life always has its ups and downs, and that’s what makes it exciting.

What is your greatest extravagance?

I’m not really an extravagant person, but if I were to name one thing, it would be a good shopping spree once in a while.

What is your most treasured possession?

My trophies.

What is your greatest fear?

The future and what it may hold.

What is your most marked characteristic?

I stand up for others whenever the situation calls for it.

Which talent would you most like to have?

I’m proud of my filmmaking talent, so far.

What is one trait you have that you are most grateful for?

I have a great sense of responsibility to a fault.

What is the human trait you most dislike about others?

I really dislike judgmental people.

What is it that you most dislike?

Dishonesty and disrespect.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

Don’t make it a big deal or don’t exaggerate.

What are your favorite words to live by?

Get your act together.

Where would you most like to live?

Los Angeles.

If you could have any job, what would it be?

Film/TV Producer.

What would you consider your greatest achievement?

Being awarded “Best Student Director” for my movie “Courage”. Graduating from University with Bachelors in Filmmaking as well.

What do you hope for in the future?

To walk down the red carpet one day.

Follow @courage_film on Instagram to find out more about Nourah’s movie and stay up to date with her news.

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[...Continued]

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kuwait kulture

CULTURAL ACCEPTANCE IS A LONG AND WINDING JOURNEY

Why we need to decolonize our minds By bazaar staff

When I was younger, I was constantly being told by grandparents and older relatives that our biggest problem as a generation was our lack of an Arab identity. Back then, I just scoffed and told them they were old, didn’t understand us, hated progress and just wanted to hold us back and tie us down with norms and ideals that were no longer relevant.

I have, however, revised my position. We do have an issue with our cultural identity. And in no way will I be able to break it down in one article.

Whether we are looking at third culture kids around the GCC, or growing up as an Arab in the West, or kids who come from traditional families but possess modern devices that connect them to different parts of the world. There is no escaping the influx of Western ideals that are slowly but surely changing the way we perceive ourselves.

But what we are failing to understand is that these ideals are also a social construct, one that doesn’t necessarily apply to our own cultural journey.

Have we internalized our own self-hate as a society? Maybe it is a product of constantly comparing ourselves to Western, white, Eurocentric ideals and deeming ourselves wanting and unworthy. Or more simply, perhaps, we feel like we don’t belong. It is utterly confusing.

How many times have you been with a group of people and heard someone say “alajaneb” are better than us? How many stories have you heard of friends, relatives and friends of friends who have immigrated abroad, and suddenly they’ve forgotten their roots, deeming Arab countries as uncivilized land masses? How many times have you disdainfully been labelled as a ‘chicken nugget’ for speaking broken Arabic, or preferring your McChicken over Machboos diyay? It is almost always taken as a blanket statement, pointing at Western absolute superiority, precisely your affiliation to it, and our utter failure as a people to understand our collective identity as Arabs.

Our sense of collective identity is continuously evolving, and with education, we see more and more Arab youth preaching how it is time to decolonize our minds. And they are not wrong.

There is absolutely nothing wrong with embracing new notions and ideals, as long as we fully understand ours first, what happened to it, who emerged victorious, and how history is changing our notion of self-perception.

To only value our culture after it has been stolen, appropriated, and then exported back to us is sad. Take the darra3a or nafnouf, it only became cool when Western designers repackaged it and sold it to us as the sexy, flowy kaftan. Or the humble hummus, which has been around for millennia, is now cool again, and we’re following the lead of chefs on the other side of the world and adding beetroot and avocados to it to make it “cool”. There’s no shame in growth, fusion and 34

evolution, but to only hype things up after they have been accepted by others is limiting our own selfworth.

Even our social interactions have been viewed through a Western lens, judged and deemed strange and ‘oriental’. We look at model Hollywood parents who are caring and conscientious, while still allowing their kids more freedom than we dared dream of, and feel that our relationships are constricting and “wrong”. Sadly, we are just missing the point and ignoring the nuances and idiosyncrasies of different societal models. There should not be a singular model of love. In the Arab world, parents might show love by providing shelter and financial aid, long after the kids have graduated and might see that this gives them the right to be more controlling. Our identity is constantly evolving with changing socioeconomic tides, which has a direct effect on how people interact.

The same way that fruit and food in some East Asian countries are a form of affection. We can not compare our culture to a foreign one, because

just like individuals, our collective norms, tastes, biases, taboos and preferences evolved and changed over time. Things that served us became more prominent and things that no longer worked, disappeared over time.

We may have declared our independence and watched as colonial soldiers sailed away, but our minds were never freed. To condemn our culture and praise a foreign one without giving it much thought is a form of intellectual slavery that needs to be reckoned with.

There has been a lot of debate and conversation on social media addressing the topics of cultural appropriation and appreciation, which has helped a lot of us rethink the way we look at our places of origin, our motifs, traditional dress and how they were colonized and taken advantage of. It is time we own our heritage, with pride, and help move it towards a future of our own choosing within a narrative of our own writing.

Photo by Uday Mittal on Unsplash.

+965 66307956

35

SUMMER IN THE

965

ART GALLERIES AND MUSEUMS

By bazaar staff

The one very good thing about art galleries and museums is that in order to preserve the items, temperature and humidity are strictly controlled. Voilà, your ideal place to peruse, ponder and consider in climes that are infinitely more bearable than being outdoors.

Bait Al Othman Museum An original house, now a historic museum, with exhibits that represent all aspects of pre-oil Kuwait life. Located in Hawalli, Abdallah Abdullatif Al Outhaman Street. Call 69999761 for more information.

Dar Al Athar Al Islamiyyah-amricani Cultural Center And Yarmouk Cultural Center This former American Hospital is located off the Arabian Gulf Road next to the Evangelical Church locally known as the Indian Church in Kuwait City.

The Yarmouk Cultural Centre is located in Yarmouk, Block 3, Street 3, opposite the Gulf and Boubyan Banks. Call them at 67070876. Follow DAI on Instagram @dai_kuwait and visit their website at www.darmuseum.org.kw.

The Mirror House Kuwait’s framed Mirror House is one woman’s labor of love. Italian born writer and artist Lidia Qattan decided to transform her home into a work of mosaic artwork using mirrors and glass. The entire floor of the house is covered in small pieces of light reflecting mirrors so do the walls of many parts of the house. It is a wonder to behold and worth the visit. Book an appointment in advance by calling 225 18522 or via WhatsApp +965 5074 7677.

Follow @mirrorhouseq on Instagram.

Sheikh Abdullah Al Salem Cultural Center Peruse six fantastic museums: Natural History, Science, Islamic History, Space, Fine Arts Center and Theater. ASCC is located in Shaab on Gulf Road! Visit their website for more information, www.ascckw.com or call 2206 6444 for further enquiries.

Sheikh Jaber Al-ahmad Cultural Center Lovingly nicknamed “Jacques” or JACC by the locals, The Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmad Cultural Center houses a Theatre Centre, Music Centre, Conference Centre, the National Library for Historical Documents, and the Kuwait Opera House. JACC offers an array of some of the finest eateries in the country. Located in Shuwaikh, you can follow them on Instagram and Twitter @jacc_kw, and visit www.jacc-kw.com for more information.

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Upside Down House Kuwait Described as a tourist attraction the Upside Down House is also fascinating for locals. The Upside Down House is a cool and artistic vacancy that tests gravity to its limit. Everything from the front door to beds, cars, living rooms are all upside down. You can continue your fascination with their inhouse cafe for a comforting coffee and a look at their hypnotizing decor. Not to mention the confusing yet mind-blowing photos you could possibly take. Visit their website at www.upsidedownhouse-kw.com to book and follow their instagram @Albet_almaglob for more insights and updates!

not fail to broadcast Kuwait’s classic and contemporary art. They hold multiple exhibitions suited for all people to enjoy and appreciate, maybe even purchase! It is a must to visit the local artists with their astounding hard work.

For more updates about events look at their instagram @Saduhouse and their website at www.alsadu.org.kw.

Al Sadu Art Gallery Al Sadu House is a Kuwaiti treasure that does

Photo by Azhar Munir Din and Andrew Neel on Unsplash.

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bathandbodyworksarabia • www.bathandbodyworks.com.kw Customer Service: 182-12-12

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truth or dare

PCOS I SAID SO!

The Nutty Nutritionist extols on the virtues of listening to your body By bazaar staff

Last year Farah Alexis Barakat, current Masters student of Research in Nutrition and Metabolic Disorders at the University of Roehampton, London, was scrolling through her camera photos when she came across an old group picture from her undergraduate days. Remembering the students’ fondness for alliteration Farah recalled the team’s moniker, “The Nutty Nutritionists” and decided that this was the sign she was looking for on what to name her burgeoning business. “There’s no reason for you not to combine science and creativity; If anything, it makes it more fun,” says Farah, and thus, “The Nutty Nutritionist” was born on Instagram; the first account in Kuwait dedicated to evidence-based PCOS nutrition posts in Arabic and English.

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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), described by mayoclinic.org as, “A hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age,” affects one in 10 women. Farah herself was diagnosed with it as a young woman, and placed immediately on birth control to regulate her hormones; these pills instead produced myriad other unfortunate symptoms. “I’m so passionate about medical nutrition therapy, and the fact that I can prevent people from maybe going down the same [treatment] route that I went through,” Farah continues, “because nutrition and mental health go hand in hand.”

Globally, and particularly prominent in Kuwait, a dietitian or nutritionist is seen as merely a conduit to losing or gaining weight. But Farah stresses that weight loss and gain weren’t the major focus of the curriculum when she was studying, and she preferred the wellness aspect of nutrition. “The most beautiful part of my studies, and the reason I loved nutrition in the first place was medical nutrition therapy.” This is very much like putting the right type of fuel into your car to make the engine run better, and the right nutrition for your body can be seen as preventative healthcare. “You can find a link to almost any disease that tracks back to nutrition.

It’s beautiful and fascinating and amazing, which is why it’s unfortunate that some [consultants] take the easy route of handing out template, fad diets which aren’t sustainable. Short-term weight loss, sells.”

The Nutty Nutritionist explains that clients can expect to undergo an initial consultation and then depending on the package chosen have one or two follow-ups, weekly or fortnightly, stressing that while some don’t need this much attention, some clients really do. “I like to make people feel heard because I feel like maybe within the past, with my own struggles, I didn’t feel like I was necessarily being heard. I look at my clients with PCOS as more than just the person talking in front of me complaining about food right now. I’m looking at, how are they feeling mentally? How are they doing physically? Are they [regular]?”

Farah then delves into the importance of regulating menstruation and the importance of talking about menses, but she still apologizes for the topic, and this is the pro-communication, cards-on-the-table nutritionist; it seems all people can be slightly awkward when it comes to the body. But, Farah really is there for her clients, encouraging open dialogue and transparency.

“I’m your coach. Right? What that means is that I’m there for you mentally and physically to achieve your goals. It’s very important for me as a nutritionist whose focus is on PCOS to make sure that my clients are feeling their best self, because ultimately the better they feel, the more

they’re able to achieve their goals. We work on their mindset, before anything else.”

Women can often be held back by society’s expectations when it comes to looking after themselves. If their bodies are not a cookie cutter shape, they don’t menstruate regularly or they exhibit signs of hirsutism, women may feel ashamed to search for help. Doctors can also misdiagnose women because of aesthetic bias, simply telling obese women to just lose the weight, or running labs because the slim girl is experiencing issues. Farah describes the selfhatred that women can go through, because they don’t see their bodies as functioning correctly.

“They start to hate their bodies, not knowing that you need to be very empathetic with yourself. You need to understand what’s going on to then help treat it.”

Farah talks about the team of other healthcare providers and practitioners it can take to manage PCOS such as gynecologists, and endocrinologists. However, first seeking a

Nutty Nutritionist consultation builds a strong foundation to support wellness. The right food for your body can help build your immunity, regulate your hormones, ease joint pain, and generally keep you as healthy as possible instead of using medication to mask the symptoms of what really ails you. “That’s basically what good health comes down to. Listen to your body which is made to function a certain way, and if it’s not [functioning that way], it’s telling us something.” Better to invest in your body now than pay the price later for poor health brought on by poor nutrition choices.

And what does The Nutty Nutritionist want most for her clients, other than investing in themselves by starting with good nutrition, and finding their own communities through following accounts like @nuttynutritionist_ on Instagram?

“My ultimate goal is to truly empower women to know what it means to be a strong woman, capable of understanding her body and what her body needs…and to empower them to cut themselves some slack.”

[Continued...]

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truth or dare

TRUTH OR DARE QUESTIONNAIRE

How would your mother describe you in one word?

Clever – mom’s always come through in the end.

How would you describe your mother in one word?

Kind.

What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?

Booked a same day flight to Miami with friends where we found ourselves invited to Diddy’s mansion.

What is your theme song?

Yung Baby Tate – I am.

What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented?

Aura.

Where would you like to live?

There’s no exact destination in mind, but ideally, a place where the weather is tropical. A place where I can live a comfortable but self-indulgent life.

What is your dream retirement location?

Tenerife.

What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?

“Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t - you’re right.” Henry Ford.

Which animal best describes your perfect partner, be it in business, or in life?

Wolf. I love me a wolf pack!

What animal best describes your personality?

A bird. Because it’s more than just being free.

It invokes the idea of limitless possibilities and looking at life from a different perspective; “bird’s eye view” – no pun intended. When I think of birds, I think of the peace that comes along with that freedom.

Who’s your fashion icon from history?

Fallon Carrington from Dynasty, does that count?

[Editors note: the new one!] If not, Brigit Bardot.

What do you think is lacking in the world, which if there were more of it would make the world a better place?

Empathy.

If you could change your name, what would you change it to?

I wouldn’t; I love my name and I wouldn’t dream of changing it to something else.

Why do you think most people who do, like you?

I’ve often heard that I’m a good influence to be around, which is something that I try to radiate when meeting new people. Being memorably positive is, I think, very undervalued - but important.

What is the toughest part of your character?

Sometimes I can be too direct.

Finish this sentence: “Happiness is…”

A state of mind.

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[...Continued]

Farah Alexis treats both men and women’s nutritional needs. For more information, check out farahalexis.com and @nuttynutritionist_ on Instagram. Photography by @moh_maher on Instagram.

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SAVING THE BEES

Bees have a new, lifesaving ‘vaccine,’ too

By Adele Peters

Fifteen years after beekeepers first started reporting mass die-offs of bees, it’s still common for an average beekeeper to lose around a third of a hive each year. Wild bees have it even worse, and many species are endangered. One of the multiple threats bees face is the growth of pesticides on farms—but a new solution, a little like a vaccine for bees, can help make them immune to the effects of the chemicals.

“I always thought there was a lot of research going into seeing if bees were dying, and the extent to which bees were dying, but not really many solutions,” says James Webb, who worked on the new technology as a student at Cornell University, and who is now leading a startup called Beemunity that is bringing a product to market.

Webb and other researchers first tested an enzyme that can be added to sugar or pollen patties given to bees in a tiny, pollen-size capsule. When a bee eats it, it breaks down the pesticide in the bee’s stomach before it can reach brain cells and cause damage. In a recently published study, the team found that 100% of bees that had been given the enzyme survived when they were exposed to pesticides.

In the control group, all of the bees exposed to the pesticides died.

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Because the enzyme only protects against one type of pesticide, a group called organophosphates, the team also developed an alternative solution that fills the microcapsule with an absorbent oil that can suck up pesticides like a sponge; the bees eventually poop out the microcapsule. The technology is designed to work with any type of pesticide.

The company is scaling up production as larger trials are run this summer and plans to have a product on the market for beekeepers in early 2022.

Another product for wild bees could be available by the end of the year.

While it can help save bees now, Webb says it’s not the final answer. “The real problem is the industrialization of agriculture,” he says. “The scale at which it happens now means that pest management is very tricky. And so people resort to the cheapest thing that they can use, and that’s obviously pesticides.”

A typical beehive is now contaminated with an average of six pesticides. When bees are exposed, it can make them more susceptible to other threats, such as mites and pathogens.

It can also make it harder for them to fly. Large doses can also kill bees directly.

Webb hopes that Beemunity’s work makes the underlying problems more obvious. “I think it’s hopefully something that can help people realize that when pesticides are taken out of the equation, wildlife does very well,” he says.

“Obviously, they’re not going to be able to feed every single animal this stuff and help them in that way. So this is a damage-control step, rather than a long-term solution.”

Photo by Bianca Ackermann on Unsplash.

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MOVE UP THE CAREER LADDER

3 ways to prove to your boss that you’re worth upskilling

By Jeff Mazur

The world’s workforce needs to undergo a reskilling revolution, the World Economic Forum declared last year, noting that 42% of core skills required to perform existing jobs are expected to change by 2022 and that more than 1 billion workers need reskilling by 2030. The front lines in this “reskilling emergency” include businesses that have a clear incentive to prevent their talent pools from stagnating. So what’s holding them back from upskilling their workers?

For some businesses, upskilling an employee might feel like too big a resource commitment, because it does require an investment of time and money. From my experience, the most effective method of upskilling is to transition the employee out of their current role and immerse them in the training experience, so they can dedicate themselves fully to education. For organizations, that means either replacing that employee while they train or discovering ways to reallocate or automate their tasks.

The upshot is, not every employee can expect the latest training in the most in-demand skill areas just because businesses need new skills. Employees often need to make a strong case for themselves and prove their viability in order to gain access to training. In my experience leading an upskilling organization, I’ve seen motivated employees succeed in obtaining new training opportunities by taking these steps: Demonstrate a continuous-learning mindset Employees ripe for upskilling are not just dedicated workers but also passionate about continuous learning. If you can show you’re learning new skills within the flow of your existing work, you’ll be identified as a motivated and adept learner who’s a great upskilling candidate.

To show you’re primed to evolve, stay on top of industry and technology trends by inviting useful resources into your email inbox.

Subscribe to industry-specific newsletters, follow industry leaders on LinkedIn or Twitter, watch tutorial or training videos, and share with your teammates the helpful content you’ve found. Look for relevant online certifications and webinars to help you develop professionally, and offer to share summaries of your takeaways with teammates. Share with your manager about the times you’ve stretched to learn new skills in order to complete projects, and brainstorm about how you could apply that same mindset to your current responsibilities.

Think of this as building a résumé of your credentials as a continuous learner.

might seek an identity-based mentor to help you navigate your particular challenges. If you need extra support in advocating for your upskilling, you might seek a sponsor (a boss, support person, or coworker to advocate for you) within your organization. Look to people either inside or outside your company who have the skills or roles you covet. Learn more about them to uncover how well these skills would benefit your current role and your longer-term dreams, and chart how an investment in obtaining those skills can generate return on investment for the company and for yourself.

Secure a mentor or sponsor First, identify your mentorship needs.

Particularly if you’re in an underrepresented group in your organization or industry, you

Create an open dialogue Talk to your manager about your career vision and how you, your manager, and your company can support it. Before you open the dialogue,

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quickly check in with yourself and your boss about how you’re doing and where your current skill level lies. The goal is to make sure you’re doing well enough in your existing role to discuss expanding your career path.

When advocating for yourself to enter an upskilling opportunity, tie the justification to how it benefits both you and the company.

Employee upskilling is an increasing necessity for the future of work, but persuading employers to invest can take some doing.

Dedicate yourself to a learning mindset, identify goals and mentorship opportunities, and start talking to your organization about where your interests and its own align.

Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash.

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PORSCHE PARTNERS

WITH LOCAL KUWAITI DESIGNERS In collaboration with Kuwait fashion start-up Rapture, Macan buyers can now choose from an array of stylish accessories By bazaar staff

Porsche has been on a roll with incredible local collaborations and special campaigns this year. Most recently, Porsche Centre Kuwait, Behbehani Motors Company, has announced a collaboration with rising Kuwaiti fashion and accessory designers, Dana AlMutairi and Ghala Al-Hajri through their brand Rapture, to create a range of street fashion accessories for Macan customers, taking inspiration from Kuwait’s modern culture.

The special Porsche Macan display for the campaign “Your Sidekick, Everywhere.”

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Accessories made out of recycled materials and vegan leather materials, embroidered with the Porsche logo

Mirror hanger

Rapture accessories designed exclusively for Porsche Centre Kuwait Using recycled materials and vegan leather materials, the Porsche logo is beautifully embroidered on an array of accessories which include card holders and mirror hangers.

Designed with the theme of happiness in mind, each piece is presented through the use of vibrant colors, similar to some of the options available to Macan customers via Porsche’s Exclusive Manufaktur Programme. Through this clever collaboration, Porsche Centre Kuwait grows closer to their clientele, bringing the Macan at the forefront of young minds in Kuwait everywhere.

To celebrate the launch, the two-month campaign titled “Your Sidekick, Everywhere.”

includes a stunning centre piece at Porsche Centre Kuwait featuring a specially branded Macan along with product samples from Rapture on display starting in June and throughout this month. Rapture was formed in 2018 as an online store offering accessories and has recently opened its first physical site in the heart of Kuwait City.

Hany Marie, Brand Manager at Porsche Centre Kuwait, said the initiative will hopefully inspire more young people to follow their inspirations and expanding the Kuwaiti start-up scene for an innovative future: “Supporting fine craftsmanship and the community has always been at the core of Porsche’s values, which in

our case has extended to backing young local brands. Rapture creates pieces that aim to radiate happiness which is a welcome message in these times, so this collaboration combines values from both brands to create a unified package.”

The Macan, the brand’s compact SUV, has been a success for Porsche since its launch in the Middle East. Its mostly young and affluent demographic matches the profile of many of Rapture’s customers who appreciate bespoke levels of personalization and customization.

The four-cylinder Macan produces 252 PS and has a top speed of 227 km/h. It comes standard with the 7-speed transmission featuring manual and automatic mode, a 10.9inch touchscreen and three-zone automatic climate control. True to the brand’s heritage, the Macan is the benchmark-setting four-door sports car in its segment.

Over the next months and while stock lasts, every Macan customer at Porsche Centre Kuwait will receive a special gift from Rapture that will consist of a variety of tailor-made items featuring the Porsche logo in a presentation box.

Don’t miss the Macan x Rapture display at Porsche Centre Kuwait, Behbehani Motors Company, on now and until the end of July. For more information, visit Porsche Centre Kuwait Behbehani Motors Company, please call 1870 870 or head to porschekuwait.com. For the latest updates on social media, follow @PorscheCentreKuwait on Instagram and Facebook.

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SUMMER IN THE

965

TIME TO GET ACTIVE

By bazaar staff

Mentioned by many the common myth that “Kuwait has nothing fun to do” is false. Get your energy pumping and your adrenaline rushing with these few exhilarating activities to do with your kids, family, and/or friends!

Go Karting Searching for fun activities to do with friends and family? Kuwait Motor Town is the perfect choice for you. Kuwait Motor Town offers a series of multiple activities to do in their arena, but what stands out the most is their Karting. Pick five of your closest friends and family and take them to go Karting for a just price between 10-20KD. Kuwait Motor Town also has strict sanitary procedures for Covid, so if you’re a little worried about touching the same wheel as others, check out their Corona protocol on their website. It’s a blast and something new to try that you won’t regret. If Karting isn’t your cup of tea, they also have other activities they offer in their arena. Check out their website for more insights and even cool events coming up.

Visit kmt.kw for more information.

All Hands on Deck If you’ve been in Kuwait for quite a while, you must know everyone seeks to travel the ocean. Rent a boat at @Alohabeach.kw on instagram where you can text or call for a worthy boat rental. Find yourself venturing to places like Kubbar where you can catch a glimpse of the clear blue water.

Or even take a day trip to Failika and discover Kuwaiti artifacts and history. But for those looking for a day at sea, sailing will be your new best friend. Find Kuwait Sailing School @Kwtsailing on instagram, they offer an opportunity to try sailing, learn how to sail on your own, try other boating toys, participate in water events, and feel one with the ocean. Enjoy the relaxing adventure with the enjoyment of exploring beyond Kuwait’s land.

Shooting Range If you’re looking to blow off some steam, Mayadeen Shooting Range will allow you to shoot your problems away, in the safest way possible.

Gather a few friends and make a day out of putting your shooting skills to the test. And if you seem to enjoy the experience, Mayadeen also offers training programs, instead of making a day out of it you can even make the summer out of it. Test your focus, strength, and discipline and come out feeling courageous. To learn more, go through their website at mayadeen.com.

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Kuwait SkyDive Adrenaline, freedom, and adventure are all found at Kuwait SkyDive. Ever since amusement parks closing down we’ve been searching for the thrill of the ‘flight or fight’ reaction, Kuwait SkyDive will ensure that but with 10 times the excitement. The fulfillment of accomplishing a once in a lifetime venture will not be topped. Kuwait SkyDive also allows you to see Kuwait’s views from another perspective, literally, the astonishing views while free-falling is liberating yet risk taking (two of the best things combined)! Follow @Kuwaitskydive on Instagram for more details.

Jet Surf If you’re the type of person who craves to be one with the waves, Jet Surf will manage to do that

in a not so wave-y space. Jet Surf allows you to surf your heart out with just a board and a jet. No matter the tide Jet Surf can be used anywhere to your liking. Be sure to purchase Jet Surf’s gadgets and surf-wear on the website at www. jetsurfkw.com/shop and for more information check out their instagram @Jetsurf.kw for events and updates!

Photo by Mykola Makhlai and Appic on Unsplash.

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NOT ALL RELAXATION IS THE SAME

These are the 3 types of mental downtime your brain needs

By Art Markman

Over the past decade, it has become clearer to many that being “on” 24/7/365 is not a recipe for success. Discussions about work-life balance and the need to take vacations are signs that we understand that getting away from work is important for mental and physical health.

It’s useful to dig a little more into what you’re trying to accomplish with your downtime, though. The more you understand about what you’re trying to achieve, the easier it becomes to recognize when you might need to take a little extra time away from work. In addition, you can do a better job of tailoring your activities to what your brain requires in order to hit the ground running when you return to work again.

A chance to clear your mind One problem with a constant focus on work is that you often end up thinking about the critical problems you’re facing in the same way, which can lead you to bang your head repeatedly against the same walls. There are several intersecting factors that lead to this similarity in focus.

First, when you remain engaged with thinking about an issue constantly, your description of the problem remains the same.

The way you describe something influences what knowledge you’re reminded of that might help you address it. Without getting a new perspective on the problem, you will be unlikely to retrieve other things you know that will help you think differently about it.

By getting away from work for a while, though, three things happen that can benefit your ability to think differently about the problems you’re facing. First, your memory of the problem changes when you step away from it. You tend to think about things more abstractly as specific details that had been your previous focus become less prominent.

That can change what you’re reminded of.

Second, when you walk away from the problem, the information from memory that has been most accessible so far has a chance to fade, and so you get a fresh opportunity to retrieve new information, which might also result in some additional knowledge coming to the fore.

Finally, the activities you engage in while you are not actively working on a problem may also serendipitously remind you of things you have encountered that might allow you to attack the problem anew when you return to work.

A relaxation of executive control A lot of the work you do also requires you to step through key tasks proactively. You have to maintain your focus on key pieces of information and avoid distractions. You have to drive your 50

thinking rather than allowing it to be buffeted by the information available in the environment.

This ability to stay focused on tasks that you want to complete is called executive control.

Maintaining this focus is difficult, and you can clearly get tired of doing it. That is one reason why you’re often mentally fried by the end of the week. The need to complete key tasks and make important decisions creates mental fatigue.

When you get away from work and feel this kind of exhaustion, you might want to recharge by engaging in activities in which you allow the world to drive your thinking rather than having to be internally driven in what you do. The reason why activities like watching a movie or concert can be so restorative is that they allow other people to do the work of determining what you’re going to think about for a while.

Even listening to an audiobook or podcast at the end of a workday or during a work break can give your executive control facilities a chance to rest.

A restoration of calm A third big source of mental fatigue is anxiety.

Anxiety is your emotional response to potential threats in your world. Unfortunately, a lot of

our workday is driven by the elimination of potential problems. You may complete tasks to make sure that clients or supervisors don’t get upset. You might focus on ensuring that competitors don’t undermine your business.

Broadly speaking, you often think about your responsibilities at work. A responsibility is generally something you do to ensure that some bad outcome doesn’t occur. So, a lot of your work life involves the feeling that if you don’t act efficiently, calamity might result. That cycle of stress is exhausting. It is one reason why so many people end their workday with a little self-medication like a beer or a cocktail.

But that medication numbs the stress; it doesn’t eliminate it.

If stress is making it hard to get work done, develop some activities to help you calm yourself. One of the benefits of mindfulness meditation is that it can be quite effective at reducing stress. Making mindfulness exercises part of your normal routine can help. Other calming activities, like a massage, a quiet bath, or a long walk, can help too. Add one or more of these calming experiences to your daily routine.

Photo by Max van den Oetelaar on Unsplash.

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TEENY TINY STEPS

Feeling overwhelmed about life picking up again? Try implementing ‘microsteps’

By Arianna Huffington

As we see the light at the end of the COVID tunnel in the U.S. and many other countries, a new phase of collective experience has kicked in: anticipation. It’s spring. The world is literally opening up again. Demand for airline tickets is surging.

With places to go and people to see, we’re making big plans and making up for lost time.

The pandemic has been a time of unspeakable loss and tragedy. At the same time, it’s also been a catalyst, forcing us to examine our lives, our priorities, and our ways of living and working. We’ve spent more than a year looking inward, thinking about what we want to take with us and what we want to leave behind. And if we’re going to make the most of this moment, we need to accompany our big plans with small steps. It’s those small steps that will help us bring forward the wisdom we’ve accumulated this past year and build new habits that help us create better lives and a better world than the one we knew pre-COVID. Because while we may have a knee-jerk, almost childlike longing for “the way things were,” we know we are never going back—and that’s a good thing. As we make our way into this next uncertain chapter, we have a once-ina-generation opportunity to apply the lessons of our individual and collective experience.

And it will be the small steps, more than the big sweeping vows and pledges, that help us navigate the transition.

At Thrive Global we have a word for these small steps: “microsteps.” Microsteps are small, science-backed steps we can start taking immediately to build healthy habits that significantly improve our lives. They’re 52

at the heart of the behavior change system we’ve brought to individuals and organizations around the world, helping them build resilience, strengthen their connections, and improve their well-being and performance. And unlike New Year’s resolutions, which even the most generous estimates show that half of us fail to keep, microsteps are too small to fail.

That’s important, because haven’t we had about enough of feeling like we’re failing? Even as we see glimmers of optimism on the horizon, many of us are languishing—unable to focus, unproductive, caught in the “void between depression and flourishing,” as Adam Grant writes. Microsteps give us quick bursts of action, success and even joy, which is going to be vital if we want to approach a state of flourishing as we face the long tail of the pandemic’s impact on our collective mental health.

Last month, at Fortune‘s annual Brainstorm Health Conference, which I co-chaired, CVS Health CEO Karen Lynch told me that we’re going to be facing “post-COVID stress disorder,” with COVID-related anxiety and depression that may linger for years after the pandemic is over.

This was echoed by Dr. Michelle Williams, dean of Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, who said that when we look back at

this time, “we will likely see a very much higher collateral damage to our mental health and wellness than to our physical health.”

Up against such forces, we need small wins more than ever. At Thrive, we wrote a whole book about them, Your Time to Thrive, an easyto-implement behavior change system packed with hundreds of microsteps on subjects ranging from sleep, nutrition and movement to focus, creativity and purpose. In a world where so much is beyond our control, microsteps help us focus on what we can control. They give us something to celebrate, propelling us forward to our next small win, and the next one. Over time, as we build new habits, they become more than what we do—they become part of who we are. As my compatriot Aristotle said, “Habit is but a long practice, which becomes men’s nature in the end.”

With minimal time and effort, you can integrate microsteps into your days, with immediate benefits for your well-being, resilience, focus, relationships and sense of purpose. We’re on the cusp of a historic transition. And there’s nothing wrong with aiming big, but we can help ourselves by starting small.

Photo by Lindsay Henwood on Unsplash.

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GLAM UP THIS EID WITH TAMANNA.COM SHOP THE LATEST TRENDS, GET NEXT-DAY DELIVERY, AND FIND SPECIAL OFFERS FOR YOU AND THE ENTIRE FAMILY

With Eid right around the corner, it’s time to give your wardrobe a festive update. Whether you are planning to host a traditional family get-together or you’re getting ready to fly away on that well-deserved getaway you’ve been longing for, let TAMANNA.com deliver your every wish.

Planning a full Eid look for yourself and the entire family means having to run around the mall to shop from multiple stores, and this can be overwhelming, time-consuming and most definitely exhausting.

And with the new vaccine restrictions, visiting your favorite stores to shop for all of your Eid essentials just became more challenging. Instead of all of this hassle, imagine a destination that lets you shop your favorite brands conveniently in one place. Enter TAMANNA.com! The Kuwaiti-born, streamlined, multi-brand online fashion, lifestyle and beauty destination is home to the biggest international brands where you can discover and shop the hottest seasonal trends locally. Just in time for Eid!

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EID WITH TAMANNA TAMANNA’s Eid Edit unveils the finest outfits for women, men, kids, and beauty must-haves, bringing you the best offers and a world-class shopping experience that is delivered right to your doorstep.

From dainty formal dresses, the coolest Athleisure fits to summer-ready looks, and fabulous beauty, skincare and make-up options, you’ll be Eid-ready in no time.

With convenient next-day delivery, a 30-day returns policy, and an easy Click & Collect service center located at The Avenues, all you have to do is shop TAMANNA.com for your Eid favorties, and your wishes will be delivered.

This Eid, just TAMANNA, as the onestop shop for fashion-savvy customers is redefining the online shopping experience in Kuwait. The local platform is wellattuned to our shopping habits, and is continuously evolving to constantly inspire customers with the latest curated fashion, beauty, home styles.

ABOUT TAMANNA.COM Founded by The Alshaya Group, TAMANNA leverages a wealth of market experience, infrastructure and support. Yet, TAMANNA is an entirely independent brand with their own unique DNA and company culture- set to redefine the Kuwait online shopping experience. Customers can easily browse and shop various fashion and lifestyle assortments from international brands like American Eagle, Foot Locker, River Island, Victoria’s Secret, Dr Vranges, Mothercare, MUJI, Starbucks, and so many more! The platform is fully functional and easily accessible on phones too with an app already in the pipeline. Descriptions and sizing information are clear, so you know exactly what you are buying.

All your wishes. Delivered.

THE HOTTEST BEAUTY MUST-HAVES ON TAMMANA The ultimate Eid outfit glam up should be matched with the hottest beauty looks.

This is why TAMANNA’S beauty experts have hand-picked collections from cult beauty favorites like Shiseido, Anastasia Beverly Hills, Clarins, NO7, NYX Professional Makeup, Soap & Glory, Bath & Body Works, The Body Shop and Victoria’s Secret.

TAMANNA’s beauty edits are complete with tips, trends and how-tos tailored for you to maximize your experience on the website.

EASY EID GIFTING WITH TAMANNA This Eid, you can also spoil yourself and your loved ones with a stunning selection of gift sets and fragrances that have been already curated for you by TAMANNA’s experts. Alternatively, and with only a few taps, you can conveniently turn your purchase into a gift with TAMANNA’s complimentary gift boxes, complete with personalized cards. Looking to add an extra special touch to your gift? Rest assured that TAMANNA’s friendly support team is always ready to help ensure that you enjoy the smoothest shopping journey.

TAMANNA.com is hopeful, everchanging, and on a journey to evolve to offer a world-class shopping experience to the Kuwaiti market.

For More Information, Visit TAMANNA.com, And Follow @Shop.tamanna On Instagram For The Latest Updates.

SUMMER IN THE

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GIVING BACK By bazaar staff

Live your summer to its fullest potential by giving back to those who need it most. By volunteering in local places your summer will become an insightful and reflective experience.

Be able to make an impact in the simplest way possible and volunteer!

Beach Clean Ups If you’ve been in Kuwait for a while, you’re familiar with the idea that litter running through the beach is not a surprise. Although, it can be managed with help. Gather a few friends this summer and visit local beaches where you can clean up the plastic and trash that could potentially harm our sea life. Support Kuwait’s ecosystem by gathering a few items at the beach and placing them where they belong. Try to seek known beaches such as Arabian Gulf Beach where families gather along with food (and food waste). If you’re also interested in participating in environmental volunteering events check The Environment Public Authority’s website epa.org.kw for updates and frequent enrichment about the severity of Kuwait’s environment.

Animal Fostering and Volunteering Are you an animal lover that has sudden free time on your hands? Without having to make the commitment of providing to the animals in need, fostering can do just the trick. Amongst the many strays wandering the streets of Kuwait, you can help. Save a Soul Kuwait is an organization that admits and helps animals get back on their feet and find their way to a loving home. You can either volunteer, foster, donate, and all of the above!

Use your time to help beloved furry friends have a better life with food, water, and love. To learn more check out Save a Soul’s website at saveasoulkw. com and their instagram @Saveasoulkw for updates about animals in need.

Humanitarian Relief If you ever felt like helping the needy with the right and trusted outlet, stick to Kuwait’s Red Crescent Society. Have the opportunity to turn the worst situations of poverty to a bearable and manageable life for them. Being able to transform just one person’s life is one of the most effective things a fortunate person can do. Kuwait’s Red Crescent Society has been effectively helping and supporting people in need, in and out of Kuwait.

By providing assistance during the summer you are making the world a better place on step at a time. To volunteer, sign up on their website www.krcs.org.kw its easy and quick, the more the merrier!

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Loyac Kuwait Founded by a group of women in 2001, Loyac has been a prominent organization that helps promote healthy upbringings for the youths’ awareness about world problems. They cover all opportunities such as giving back to their community, searching for work experience, and even leadership roles that help bring out the leader within. All bring out social awareness for the youth and you can help manage and provide

to promote their causes. Loyac is an organization for all ages to partake in and will be a great use to exert your energy and make Kuwait’s future a success. Stop by @Loyackuwait on Instagram and their website at loyac.org to sign up to volunteer.

Photo by Brian Yurasits and Cierra Voelkl on Unsplash.

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YES, YOU CAN PEOPLE AGAIN

How to go back to connecting authentically post-pandemic

By Anthony Silard

“How can you recommend spending less time looking at screens? During the pandemic, my screens are all I have to connect with others.” These are things I hear from quite a few people when they learn that I write about living without screens.

But a screenless life can reveal a fulfilling form of connection many of us have been without this last year. Could the next year be a worthwhile opportunity to truly unplug but still connect? Here are some reasons I believe real connection is beyond smartphones and video cameras.

To alleviate stress, connect Despite the myriad promises to the contrary, texting or emailing rarely leads to the social connection we so desperately need to buffer the loneliness, anxiety, and trauma of the pandemic. A 2011 study led by Leslie Seltzer at the University of Wisconsin found that girls who were asked to perform math problems in front of strangers saw an increase in their stress levels; those same girls who then instant messaged with their mothers experienced no decrease in cortisol, a biomarker of stress, nor did they experience an increase in oxytocin, a neuropeptide associated with the warm feelings of closeness in a positive relationship.

However, when these girls interacted with their mothers in person or by phone after the stressful math performance, they did experience a reduction in cortisol and an increase in oxytocin. In other words, they felt less stressed and more connected with their mothers only by interacting face-toface or on the phone, but not through electronic communication.

What lessons does this study hold for the rest of us after our stress levels have skyrocketed— not from working out math problems in front of strangers for half an hour but from sidestepping and wearing masks in front of strangers for more than 10 months? Stop texting and call. Defect from the heads-down tribe, lift up your forehead, and use your phone as . . . a phone. Stop messaging 10 people trivial chunks of information and call one person you care about and start connecting.

Why screens are not satisfying The one thing communicating by screens is missing is physical touch.

A study from 1999 found that baby rats whose mothers groom and lick them frequently actually develop a stronger immune system and grow up more resilient to stress. To see if these observations apply to humans, University of Virginia neuroscientist Jim Coan used the threat of electric shock while his subjects were placed in a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scanner. You may be thinking, Okay, but do these findings hold up among humans?

To find out, Coan exposed study subjects, who 62

were all married women, to the threat (and that’s only the threat) of electric shock while in an fMRI scanner. Some of the women held their husband’s hand, others held the hand of a male stranger (strictly platonic, husbands were assured), and others were subjected to this source of stress with no hand to hold at all.

When the women were holding their husband’s hand—and to a lesser extent a male stranger’s hand (but not when they had no hand to hold)— their neural systems that support behavioral and emotional responses to threat became less active.

The higher the quality of the marriage, the more human touch reduced the woman’s stress-related response to threat.

What does this finding mean? Physical contact decreases the hypersensitivity to threat of our nervous system, especially when it’s the touch of someone we trust and with whom we have a healthy relationship. Yet even the touch of someone we have no relationship with at all can make a difference in reducing our physiological responses to threat. Perhaps this is one of the reasons we choose to get a massage, have our nails done, or hug our friends.

Why ‘being there’ for each other is key Moreover, the socioemotional support individuals

give to and receive from others is equally important.

Research based on data from three longitudinal studies begun in the 1920s and ’30s (a period that included the Great Depression and World War II) examined why some individuals crumble subsequent to adversity while others sustain their well-being.

Both children and adults who received frequent social support by dint of being embedded in strong social networks were more likely to find meaning and purpose in the adversity they experienced than those who did not receive strong social support.

Social support is needed not only in adversity but also in good times. In a study by the University of California, Santa Barbara, of 79 dating couples, social psychologist Shelly Gable found that when it comes to both relationship well-being and dissolution, supportive responses to positive news bear more influence than supportive responses to negative news.

Hence, it seems that in sickness and in health, giving and receiving social support with the people we care about is not just a nice-to-have but a needto-have. So to foster your own connections, get offline and start building those relationships, as safely as your can, away from screens.

Photo by Shane Rounce on Unsplash.

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TAKING MANKIND TO NEW HORIZONS

Mohamed Naser Al Sayer & Toyota celebrates the evolution of its flagship SUV with launch of all-new Land Cruiser 2022 in Kuwait By bazaar staff

Reinforcing the legendary status of one of the Middle East’s best-loved vehicles, Mohamed Naser Al Sayer and Toyota have launched the eagerly-awaited new generation of its iconic Land Cruiser in the region. The all-new Land Cruiser combines outstanding all-terrain performance with a spacious, high-quality interior to bring drivers and passengers an elevated experience on every trip.

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ALSAYER held the Kuwait premier for valued partners of Toyota as well as distinguished members of the press and media in adherence to the Ministry guidelines. The event was attended

by Mubarak Naser Al Sayer CEO at ALSAYER, Martin Aherne Business Director and Bader Faisal Al Sayer Toyota Marketing Manager representing Mohamed Naser Al Sayer.

“I feel extremely happy when I see members of my family, my friends and of course our customers, enjoying their Land Cruiser’s. They share a great bond with it, they are so confident in its ability, and they truly believe – Once a Land Cruiser, Always a Land Cruiser,” Mubarak Naser Al Sayer stated.

Since first launching in 1951, the Land Cruiser has become renowned for its exceptional off-road capabilities in adverse environments.

Throughout its 70-year history, it has served as an indispensable tool that supports people’s livelihoods in remote destinations, contributes to humanitarian aid and disaster relief efforts, and enriches people’s lives through experiences only the Land Cruiser can provide.

A cumulative total of approximately 10.4 million units have been enjoyed by customers in 170 countries all over the world, and particularly in the Middle East where the Land Cruiser has attained a loyal following thanks to its reliability, durability, and superlative off-road performance. To 66

continue responding to customers’ expectations of the Land Cruiser as “a vehicle that allows people to go anywhere and everywhere and come back safe and sound,” Toyota has been advancing and evolving the model by setting ever-higher development and evaluation standards based on the needs of drivers across the globe.

“Toyota designed the all new Land Cruiser drawing feedback from people right here from this region, our valued customers told Toyota what they wanted, Toyota listened and have developed the new Land Cruiser 300 based on your feedback,” elicited Martin Aherne.

Takami Yokoo, Chief Engineer in charge of development, commented: “I believe that regardless of how times change, Land Cruiser must remain true to its roots. As such, our goals for the new Land Cruiser are best-ever off-road performance as well as setting a new benchmark in body-on-frame on-road performance. My team and I are eager for customers to experience this long-anticipated evolution, with groundbreaking enhancements to the platform and powertrain, an overwhelming exterior presence and an interior appointed with enough luxury and functionality to make customers forget they are traveling over harsh terrain. The launch of the all-new Land Cruiser is a celebration of its 70th year as an icon, and I sincerely hope it can be a source of vitality

and support for our customers around the world.”

“Land Cruiser is going to elevate it’s “King Of The Road” status to a whole new level, with an even better presence, and performance appealing to BOTH young & old, male or female, city lifestyle or desert camps” commented Bader Faisal Al Sayer.

“We are excited to introduce the all-new Land Cruiser, an iconic vehicle that has earned its place in the hearts of drivers around the world and remains one of the region’s most popular SUVs,” said Kei Fujita, Chief Representative, Middle East and Central Asia Representative ‎Office, Toyota Motor Corporation. “Equally at home during off-road adventures or navigating today’s urban cityscapes, the Land Cruiser’s go-anywhere capability truly delivers the joy of mobility, bringing unrivaled performance, safety, and comfort to drivers and passengers alike.”

“The legendary Land Cruiser embodies Toyota’s reputation for reliability, durability, and capability, and has become an integral part of people’s lives for 70 years not only in the Middle East, but in virtually every part of the globe. We thank our loyal customers for their enduring support and remain committed to working handin-hand to create ever-better cars.” Fujita added.

Toyota is so confident in the vehicle’s proven design dimensions that its engineers have kept

virtually all aspects unchanged, even with the implementation of the new TNGA platform.

The all-new Land Cruiser retains its iconic size, while gaining an even stronger stance through its increased front and rear wheel tread.

Technologies accumulated over many years have been paired with the latest breakthroughs to achieve improvements such as weight reduction, lowering the center of gravity, the adoption of new powertrains, new interior and exterior designs, and advanced safety features.

The 2022 Land Cruiser comes with a choice of three powertrain options, including two newly developed V6 twin-turbo engines. The V6 twinturbo 3.5-liter petrol engine achieves classleading performance that surpasses that of a conventional V8, producing 409 hp and up to 650 nm. Meanwhile, the V6 twin-turbo engine 3.3-liter diesel variant, which will be available to buy in the region soon, is capable of 302 hp and up to 700 nm. Both of these newly developed engines are mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle is also available with a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter V6 petrol engine that produces 271 hp and up to 385 nm mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The all-new suspension setup features doublewishbone suspension at the front and a 4-link rigid suspension at the rear, delivering a higher

level of on-road stability and off-road performance.

The vehicle’s lightweight, high-strength structure ensures excellent reliability and fuel efficiency.

Additionally, the vehicle is available with Adaptive Variable Suspension System (AVS), depending on the grade, which optimally controls the damping force based on driving conditions to ensure refined ride comfort. The all-new Land Cruiser also introduces the All-Wheel Drive Integrated Management (AIM) concept, which delivers integrated control of the vehicle’s drive force, AWD, suspension, braking and steering systems according to driving conditions to enhance driving pleasure.

The all-new Land Cruiser is equipped with the latest off-road driver assistance features, including a three Differential Lock system (front, central and rear) that is unique in the segment and provides enhanced off-road capabilities on rough terrain. Toyota’s all-new Electronic-Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) enables independent front and rear suspension control with two independent loops mounted on a solid frame, a global first that allows customers to enjoy greater ride comfort and stability both on and offroad.

In addition, the new 3D-Multi Terrain Monitor (3D-MTM) assists the driver in determining the road conditions around the vehicle, a first for

Toyota that facilitates safer and more confident low-speed maneuvering. A new AUTO mode enhances the capabilities of Multi-Terrain Select by adjusting according to road conditions such as sand, rock, dirt, and mud. The vehicle also features crawl control and turn assist functions.

The all-new Land Cruiser has evolved into a one-of-a-kind vehicle with the sophisticated charm of a flagship model, while inheriting the traditional traits of robustness and authenticity appropriate for a full-fledged off-roader. The front design builds on the heritage of previous models, with functional features such as headlamps and the radiator grille set higher to reduce the risk of damage during offroad driving.

The all-new interior cocoons passengers in a sophisticated and comfortable space unaffected by the external environment. Controls and switches are intuitively grouped and easy to operate, even when driving on challenging roads. The cabin offers a range of advanced features such as wireless charging for smartphones, Active Noise Control, and a 4-zone automatic air conditioning system with rear control switches. The cluster gauge features a 7-inch color Multi-information Display (MID) and a 12.3-inch Multimedia display.

As with any other Toyota model, safety remains a top priority for the all-new Land Cruiser, which comes with an advanced safety system. This [Continued...]

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is complemented by Toyota Safety Sense, an advanced safety technology package that includes a Pre-Collision System (PCS) that introduces new features including Emergency Steering Assist (ESA) and Intersection Turn Assistance to help prevent collisions with vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians. The package also includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with Full-Speed Range, Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), and Automatic High Beam (AHB).

Available in 10 distinctive exterior colors, the all-new Land Cruiser allows customers to express their individuality. These include three newly available colors; Precious White Pearl, with true pearl texture and high brightness; Dark Blue MC, a high-quality dark blue that reflects urban styling; and Avant-garde Bronze ME, a rich bronze with a strong presence. Meanwhile, the interior is available in a choice of Neutral Beige, Black, or Dark Red. The vehicle also comes equipped with new 17-inch, 18-inch, or 20-inch alloy wheels.

The 18-inch wheels are available in a choice of two designs, one of which offers better off-road performance, while the other expresses functional beauty and practicality.

Visit toyota.com.kw or call 180 3803 to book your test drive today. Follow @toyotakw on Instagram for the latest updates.

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3500cc Twin Turbo – 409hp – 6 cylinder.

Automatic transmission – 10 Speed.

Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC).

Down Hill Assist Control (DAC).

Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management (VDIM).

Adaptive Variable Suspension System (AVS).

Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) + Hold Function.

Radar Cruise Control and Pre-Crash Safety System.

BSM (Blind Spot Monitor) + RCTA (Rear Cross Traffic Alert).

LDA (Lane Departure Alert).

LTA (Lane Tracing Assist).

Crawl Control.

8 Airbags.

Alloy wheels 20 inches.

Power Back Door.

Sunroof.

LED headlights + Daytime Running Lamp (DRL) + Adaptive High Beam System (AHS).

7-inch Multi information Display.

12.3-inch touch screen Display (Apple Carplay & Android Auto).

Automatic 4 zones Air-condition.

4 Cameras (Panoramic View Monitor + Multi Terrain Monitor).

Mobile Wireless Charger.

Head-Up Display (HUD).

Cooler Box. Smooth Leather seats.

Power Front Seats + Ventilation & Heater Systems.

JBL Sound system with 14 Speakers.

Front & Rear Differential Lock System.

Drive Mode Select (ECO/Normal/Sport).

Multi-Terrain Select (Auto/Rock/Dirt/Mud/Sand/Deep Snow).

Summer Adventures

1st Avenue - The Avenues Whatsapp: 1821212

Scan QR code or visit:

www.potterybarnkids.com.kw

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DON’T DWELL ON BRANDING

I’m a branding expert—and I think most startups spend way too much on branding By saskia ketz

When you’re building an early-stage startup, it’s tempting to create a jaw-dropping brand from the start—one that immediately distinguishes you from the competition and attracts users, investors, and buzz to your growing company.

But with a startup budget, you’re probably balking at agency fees—even the leanest packages at agencies start at around $50K and can quickly escalate to six figures. And sure, you could skimp with a cheaper designer, but you’ll probably end up paying for it in revisions or redos.

It sounds dire for a company just trying to launch and look good doing it, but I’m here to deliver some good news: You don’t have to invest in the best possible design as a startup.

In fact, you shouldn’t.

I’ve spent the past 15+ years working as a brand strategist for startups, and I’ve come to realize that startups and premium brand design are not a natural fit.

It’s actually not worth it for a startup to try and scrounge up the money for a big branding package, and here’s why: Good design is about anchoring the look and feel of your brand in a business strategy—but startups are all about testing and pivoting. Your product, audience, and positioning will likely evolve a few times over; you shouldn’t go through a spendy branding process with that imperfect information. Doing so may lead to a rebrand sooner than you’d like, not to mention the nagging feeling that you wasted precious resources on that early design work.

Obviously, you still want your brand to look put together—but there’s a smarter, cheaper way. Here’s my advice for how early-stage startups should approach branding.

Start with “black dress” design It’s entirely possible for early-stage startups to work with a junior designer to create their initial branding—or even take a DIY approach.

The problem comes when they try to create something groundbreaking on a budget.

In the early days, the most important thing your brand needs to communicate is professionalism—which is what often gets lost when companies try to create complex branding on their own. Instead, aim for what I call “black dress” design: You’re not trying to create a revolutionary brand, you’re aiming for something simple and timeless.

Use a wordmark instead of a logo symbol Good logo design is expensive. And while there are plenty of free logo creation tools out there, they often create something a little too on-the-nose (such as a megaphone for a 70

communications company) or something so random it’s not tied to your company at all.

An easier approach that will usually yield a more professional output is to utilize a wordmark—in other words, your company name in a timeless typeface. Avoid trendy fonts or anything overly ornate, and focus on finding something with clean lines that can be easily read at any size. Sans serifs are a versatile choice that can work with a lot of different looks and are easy to read at many sizes, whereas serif fonts may lend a more mature and sophisticated look to your brand.

Pick a basic color palette Color carries subconscious meaning and emotion, which is why branding agencies spend a lot of time choosing exactly the right shades.

But you don’t have to be an expert to have an impact.

A more basic place to start is to pick a color based on the general emotion you want to convey or the common brand colors in your industry.

Finance and tech companies, for instance, often use blue because it’s associated with reliability and integrity—think Facebook, IBM, and Visa. And while you probably don’t want to use the exact same colorsas your competitors, it can be good to consider what the color you’re choosing evokes. Then build a palette from there: One bold brand color and a few complimentary neutrals to back it up should do.

Try templates You might shy away from templates for things like your website, business cards, and social media posts because you want to stand out, but they can be a great way for you to tap the brilliant design minds that created them for a far lower cost. By customizing templates with your wordmark and colors, you can still have assets that feel unique to you but that are far more professional than a non-designer could create themselves.

Invest once you’ve found your fit Once you have a simple, professional design in place, you can focus on what’s most important when you’re an early-stage startup—figuring out what your company does and who you do it for. Not only will this help build a thriving company, but it will also be critical information to have when you’re ready to invest in premium branding strategy and design.

As soon as you’ve found your product-market fit and feel secure in your business strategy, then shell out the dollars to work with a great designer. At that point—with a clearer brand vision and, hopefully, bigger budgets to boot— you’ll end up with a design that you’re trulyglad you invested in.

Photo by Balázs Kétyi on Unsplash.

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TOGA ARCHIVES X H&M The Collaboration With The Japanese Cult Brand Brings Archive Classics With A Twist By bazaar staff

H&M announced a unique collaboration with the Tokyo-based independent luxury label TOGA. Founded in 1997 by Yasuko Furuta, TOGA has gained critical acclaim and a devoted international fanbase for its experimental takes on wardrobe classics, defined by a genderless, fiercely individual approach to fashion. The collection will comprise exciting reimaginings of TOGA’s archival hits for men and women, given contemporary twists.

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“Fashion is a great way to express your interests immediately and non-verbally. It’s much faster than a conversation about the artwork you are interested in, or the music or books that you like. When I first launched TOGA, I wanted to make clothes for people who are filled with curiosity and who are unafraid of change. With this collection for H&M, I am excited that a broader range of people will be able to discover and enjoy TOGA designs,” Yasuko Furuta, founder and creative director of TOGA elaborates.

Yasuko Furuta has built her brand on playful but cool pieces that explore sensuality in unusual ways, and this collection is true to her founding mission of exploring new ideas that become future

standards. TOGA favorites — hybridised trench coats, deconstructed striped shirts, plissé skirts, dresses with clever cut-outs, and exacting tailoring — are all at play in the TOGA ARCHIVES x H&M collection. For women, classic tailoring in navy, grey and black features dashes of eccentricity, such as bead embellished pockets or silk scarf cape detailing; meanwhile dresses and skirts in bold floral and gingham prints pair cleverly with deconstructed knitwear. For men, eye-catching scarf prints appear in reversible bomber jackets, on loungewear and on a hybridised trench coat, alongside reworked sweaters and shirts.

“At H&M, we have always admired Yasuko Furuta for imbuing her clothes with a very strong sense of

personality. She enjoys the challenge that comes with creating an avant-garde look that is also easy to wear. It was a pleasure to spend time with her and her team, being inspired by designs from the TOGA archive. I can’t wait to see how customers all over the world style these playful but cool pieces, particularly the sensual TOGA signature cut-outs,” says Ann-Sofie Johansson, Creative advisor at H&M.

The TOGA ARCHIVES x H&M collection will be available online at kw.hm.com and the H&M MENA App from September 2.

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SMALL BRICK, MIGHTY POWER THE SECRET TO LEGO’S ENDURING APPEAL

By Jesus Diaz

In 2008, I wrote an article about a place hidden under the old home of Lego’s founder, now a small private museum called the Lego Idea House, in the town of Billund, Denmark. I called it the “Lego Secret Vault” because it contained every Lego set ever made. It was full of amazing treasures, but one of those sets—which my father gave to my brothers and me for Christmas, 1979—actually made me tear up.

Those old Lego sets, I realized then, were not just plastic bricks in a box but time portals to days long forgotten. The article went viral online and soon—according to the head of the Lego Idea House, Jette Orduna—TV channels and newspapers from all over the world flocked to see the “secret vault.” Orduna remarked that all those journalists had the same reaction. “It doesn’t matter who they are; they come, and at the end, they all get emotional,” she said.

This unprecedented demand to visit the vault and the reaction to it were two of the things that made former Lego CEO and Lego Foundation Chairman Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen decide that the company needed a place for everyone to come and feel the power of the Lego experience firsthand. However, the third-generation company owner—grandson of Ole Kirk, son of founder Godtfred Kirk—wanted to create more than a nostalgic museum or a fun house full of Lego models. He wanted this place to be “the Home of the Brick,” to physically represent everything the company believes in. Kristiansen thinks that the colorful bricks transcend their simple nature as toys. And so the Lego House became his mission. He got involved in every aspect of bringing it to life because he believes it is his legacy and a testimony to how these bricks are

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[Continued...]

a lot more than just pieces of plastic. For him, it all has a higher purpose, and the Home of the Brick needed to show it.

For Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen, the Lego brick is intimately tied to some of the dearest memories of hundreds of millions of people throughout the world for a reason—one that’s even larger than the joy of playing with a building toy. This higher purpose helps us become adults by transforming us—our minds and spirits, and our view of the world as we play. It’s a secret hiding in plain sight for everyone who has ever clicked Lego bricks together.

That secret is Learning Through Play.

The Lego Foundation was established in 1986. It aims to build a future where learning through play empowers all children to become creative, engaged, lifelong learners. Through 25% ownership of the Lego Group, the Lego Foundation has helped fund programs that ensure children across the world learn and develop holistic skills. The organization was born of the theory and practice of learning through play, a scientifically researched method that says that human beings learn most effectively not by memorizing, listening, or seeing others doing things, but by playing.

According to Tina Holm, research manager at the Lego Foundation, the philanthropic organization has worked for more than five years with academic researchers around the world— such as the MIT Media Lab in Cambridge, Massachusetts—to codify this theory, an ongoing work that hasn’t been completed yet.

This creative learning model, which they refer to as the “Journey,” goes through three distinct phases: a connection phase that makes people of all ages curious and motivates them, an exploration phase in which people test and try things, and a transformation phase in which people reflect and communicate.

Kristiansen, convinced that Learning Through Play is the very core of the Lego experience, wanted this methodology to be central to the Home of the Brick itself and its guiding ethos.

In fact, the Lego Foundation joined the project to help the Lego House design team integrate Learning Through Play in everything. And thanks to this focus, everything clicked perfectly, materializing Kristiansen’s vision for the Home of the Brick.

How humans learn and create The Learning Through Play model is based in five development competencies—social,

Winter in July

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creative, cognitive, emotional, and physical— and the three-phase learning process of connection, exploration, and transformation.

The five development competencies actually served to organize the architectural space while the learning process guided the design of every single experience inside the Lego House and, more importantly, the rules that governed its design team’s creative work.

To better explain how the three phases— connect, explore, and transform—work, I want to go back to Christmas morning, 1979, when my siblings and I got the Lego Galaxy Explorer and other smaller LegoLand Space sets.

In the connect phase, I became instantly enthralled by the model pictured on the box. It’s what the Lego Group calls the “wow” moment.

My mind marveled at the amazing spaceship, the lunar station, the little astronauts with their smiling faces. Then I opened the box and saw the transparent round boxes with all those blue, gray, and yellow bricks, plus a large instructions booklet. As a child, this was when I understood that the objective of this set was to build that scene—it was the “Oh, I get it” moment—and what I was supposed to do with it. It’s what the Lego House team refers to as the understandingmy-role moment.

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The explore phase starts with something called first fun. This happened when I opened the instructions booklet and started selecting and sorting the pieces I needed to put together the ship’s cockpit, imagining how each brick would contribute to the finished set. After that, the immersion stage took over. I became so engrossed with what I was doing that everything disappeared around me. My brain was working at full speed, interpreting the building instructions while using my eyes and hands to find specific pieces, clicking them together in the right way.

As I completed segments of the spaceship, I had what the Lego House team categorizes as “a-ha!” moments, where I stopped to recognize the progress I was making and take in how everything was coming together.

Fixing knowledge to our brains The transform phase is what makes you grow as a human being, the part where everything gets organized in your mind as knowledge and skills.

In this example, it begins with the end point moment, when I finished the model. My brain, after all those inputs and outputs, was satisfied.

As I held the Galaxy Explorer in my hands, opening and closing its cockpit or docking bay, making a littler rover go inside that bay, or placing

a spaceman in the little lunar outpost, my mind was processing and reflecting on everything I had done. Inevitably, the mental and manual challenges of the building experience translated into a feeling of pure joy, which served to integrate the acquired knowledge into my core self. This is what the method calls the lasting impression. Finally, there is sharing: the mere fact of articulating learned knowledge helps you further clarify it for yourself. According to Holm, research shows that sharing with others helps “fix” knowledge in our brains. My brothers and I showed off our accomplishments—a finished Galaxy Explorer—to each other and to my dad because that’s what humans do.

Of course, I had no idea what was happening in my young brain until I came to the Lego House. Now, looking back at that and many other episodes, I can see how the logic of the Learning Through Play model has ruled every aspect of my creative journey through my young and adult life. If you analyze your own experiences playing with Lego bricks or anything else, you may see how this model applies to your life too.

Photos by Xavi Cabrera, Vlad Hilitanu and Ravi Palwe on Unsplash.

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SAM EDELMAN

NOW OPEN AT THE AVENUES Discover footwear that inspires everyday whimsy and modern luxury for the perfect summer outfit By bazaar staff

It’s officially summer, and while everyone is focusing on their summer wardrobe goals, footwear is often ignored, when in reality the right pair of sandals can make or break that perfect summer outfit. To make sure that your summer looks are on point, look no farther than Sam Edelman. Located at 360 MALL and now open at The Avenues, Sam Edelman offers a world of incredible choices, matching on-trend styles with affordable price points. From stunning gliders, strappy flats, on-point wedge mules, kitten-heels to perfectly ruched midi-heel sandals in trendy candy-colored pastel shades.

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By bazaar staff

Ever since the brand’s inception, Sam Edelman has been a dominant force in the world of fashion, amassing an ever-growing following for their renowned, modern casual luxury shoes at affordable prices. The eponymous label is inspired by the creative fashion visionary, a legend in his own right who has shaped the footwear industry we know today. Founding the brand with his wife and muse Libby Edelman, the label is devoted to irreverent and whimsical style, inspired by timeless American elegance that bridges the gap between aspiration and attainability to define modern luxury. With many locations across the US and Asia, Kuwait is now home to not one, but two Sam Edelman boutiques.

The Avenues boutique launch by renowned retailer Alyasra Fashion was an event to remember.

The ribbon cutting ceremony was attended by Alyasra Fashion’s top management, Sam Edelman brand representatives and a glittering group of esteemed loyal customers, influencers and fans.

The boutique was adorned with beautiful fresh flowers, and the ambience was alive with live music. The celebrations took place while adhering to health guidelines, but we were happy to forget

about what’s going on in the news to admire the incredible collection of footwear we saw in store!

We asked the Alyasra team about this brandnew store opening, and what this location means to the Sam Edelman brand, “The Avenues has always been in our plans for its strategic location, as it is one of the most visited malls in Kuwait which caters to different customer profiles. It is important for us and Sam Edelman to reach out and engage with a wider audience.” The Alyasra team further tells us that what sets Sam Edelman apart from other footwear concepts is the brand’s focus on the ideal of “modern luxury, which offers a wide variety of footwear styles at an affordable price.” We were also surprised to see a second store opening, in the midst of the challenging times presented by an ongoing pandemic, but Alyasra’s team assured us that “while the circumstances are challenging for the retail market as a whole, the company is instead choosing to focus on growth opportunities and ensuring that customers in Kuwait are always offered the a latest in the world of fashion.”

As for the summer styles at the Sam Edelman store, Alyasra fashion’s team guided us toward the

brand’s most iconic styles. We instantly fell in love with the high fashion, midi-heeled Marlena, with ruffled padded straps and a slender padded sole made for the coziest level of class. Available in ontrend pastel colors, we were absolutely smitten!

Another iconic style by Sam Edelman is the Bay slide sandal. Perfect for warm-weather chic, the bay slide is versatile and easy to match, it looks great from poolside to lunch with friends at your favorite spot. We love how it can be paired with a simple pair of jeans or a flowing sundress. If you’re a fan of the Bay slide but prefer a blocked-heel look, the Illie Slide Sandal will glam up any outfit.

When it comes to the right pair of summer sandals, we love versatility, and each and every iconic look at Sam Edelman delivers on style and functionality. From the Illie we also fell in love with the Briar slide sandal, because you can wear it anywhere! The slightly lifted heel and quilted bottom slide make it effortlessly chic. No summer footwear wardrobe is complete without a pair of wedge sandals, and the Jamila is truly the most comfortable pair of padded wedges that you’ll ever wear. Little details like woven straps and metallic hues will have you resort ready in a flash. And for days where you know you’re going to be out and about from am to pm, the Adaley is your summer BFF. The perfect sport sandal, you will feel like you’re simply walking on clouds with the Adaley, all thanks to the thick, textured leather strap yet simple, laid-back classy style. Up the ante with your summer look with the ultimate slip-on summer mule with The Marjorie. With woven straps and a kitten heel that is so sleek and sexy, your look will instantly be uplifted, and the best part is that you can choose from a variety of colors and textures.

Last but most definitely not least, we love that the Sam Edelman store also offers myriad styles of beautiful handbags to complement your favorite pair of summer sandals. So, while your eye might be wandering toward the Marlena in on-trend Canary yellow, make sure that you also choose the perfect bag to make your summer look pop.

Shop Sam Edelman at The Avenues and 360 Mall.

For the latest updates, check out @samedelman.me on Instagram.

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KEITH HARING X H&M

THE POP-ART DROP: FRESH STREETWEAR COLLECTION FEATURING KEITH HARING PRINTS By bazaar staff

The immediately recognizable art of Keith Haring adds an instant, eye-catching quality to some of the summer’s hottest streetwear styles. H&M is presenting us with a men’s collection of hoodies, tees and more, utilizing the iconic designs of the American pop art legend.

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Keith Haring invented his own unique visual language, incorporating humor and symbolism, as well as social messages. His work has proven to have an exceptional staying power.

This collection features a number of streetwear staples such as shoes, shorts and jackets with unmistakably characteristic Haring prints.

The campaign is shot by photographer Theo Wenner, and shown by two upcoming local artists. The location for the photo shoot is in East Harlem, a landmark along New York’s FDR Drive. An example of how Haring devoted much of his career to public works, often with activist messages.

Keith Haring’s art speaks to sophisticated art lovers and children alike, and is considered an important step forward in the progression of pop art. He passed away at the age of 31 in February 1990. The fame never changed Haring’s outlook on art, and his work was characterized by a charming innocence until the very end.

The collection is available in select stores, online at kw.hm.com and on the H&M Mena App with prices starting from KD 6.500.

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MAKE YOUR DOCS POP

The 5 best new fonts to use in Google Docs

By Lilly Smith

Google Docs, the ubiquitous and free word processing tool, uses a sans serif font called Arial by default. It’s classic and straightforwardly simple. Like the white bread of fonts, it’s hard working and versatile, but pretty dang basic.

Last week, Google added 60 new fonts to its catalog of free licensed font families for you to choose from in Docs and Slides with a tweet that basically said, “these fonts are here now!” There wasn’t much detail as to why Google added the fonts, but for anyone who grew tired of the 30 or so default font options available previously, the new offerings will make it much easier to customize Google Docs and Slides.

Here are five of the most exciting new typefaces, showcasing a range of styles, from an updated love-to-hate font to a canonical typeface mid-century modernist Massimo Vignelli himself favored. Your next shared Doc is about to get a lot spicier.

Comic Neue Google Fonts already has Comic Sans, one of the most widely mocked fonts on the Internet. (Its own designer calls it the “the Justin Bieber of fonts.”) Comic Neue is its more sophisticated sibling. The “squashed, wonky, and weird glyphs of Comic Sans have been beaten into shape,” Google writes, while maintaining the fun that make many love Comic Sans (and love to hate it). Comic Neue’s child-like look could work nicely for younger audiences, but it could have practical benefits, too. Comic Sans is considered a more legible font for dyslexic readers.

JetBrains Mono This typeface looks like code, and that makes sense: It takes inspiration from it. The rounded rectangular shapes of JetBrains Mono is “made for the specific needs of developers,” according to its designers Philipp Nurullin and Konstantin Bulenkov. It’s a monospace font, so each letter or character takes up the same amount of space. But you don’t need to use it for coding—use it to give a boxy, geometric feel to an otherwise drab Google Doc or presentation.

Bodoni Moda Bodoni Moda is a long overdue addition to Google Docs and Slides. Bodoni, a serif font first designed by Giambattista Bodoni in the late 18th century, is an all-time classic font.

It’s a serif typeface, with sharp edges and straight lines that give it modern appeal. It has been used everywhere: One of its most famous proponents was the iconic mid-century modern 82

designer Massimo Vignelli, who famously used only a handful of typefaces throughout his career; he considered Bodoni one of his six preferred typefaces. Garamond, a typeface similar to Bodoni, already exists in Google Docs. But Bodoni Moda’s contrasting thin and thick strokes make it stand on its own, and it’s high time the font family gets some attention, too.

Goldman You’ve probably seen a typeface similar to Goldman, with its angled terminals and squared counters (the negative space in letters), used for the front covers of sci-fi novels. Designer Jaikishan Patel expands its use case here, designing it for applications in science fiction, sports, drama, and thriller

posters. Now you can bring a cinematic element to your Docs.

Museu Moderno There are 26 letters in any English alphabet, but in the sans serif Museo Moderno alphabet, one letter is the star: the lowercase W. It looks like someone bent a piece of steel pipe to get those wonky curves.

Omnibus-Type first designed the typeface for the Museum of Modern Art of Buenos Aires, but it’s easy to see the contemporary geometric typeface on everything from direct-to-consumer beauty brands to specialty consumer goods.

Photo by Brett Jordan on Unsplash.

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SWEET SUMMER ESCAPADES AND DELICIOUS DELIGHTS AT JUMEIRAH MESSILAH BEACH HOTEL & SPA Treat yourself and your loved ones to new and exciting culinary experiences this summer By bazaar staff

A new experience awaits at Olio Trattoria Italiana Restaurant's beach Cabana

Summer brings with it excitement and a renewed desire to fully embrace fun and living life to its fullest. One of our favorite ways to fully get into the swing of summer is by sitting down to a carefully crafted meal with family or friends. This summer, Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel & Spa is giving us several options to do just that!

From international culinary escapades to refreshing experiences that can be enjoyed poolside, get ready for a summer of fun!

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Tropical Friday Brunch at the Garden Café Restaurant Olio Trattoria Italiana Restaurant is bringing Italy to you with a Summery Twist Jumeirah’s beach cabanas have recently been transformed from an outdoor set-up to a fully covered area via modern, sleek glass enclosures, with new furniture and cooled down to the perfect temperature for your enjoyment.

The Beach Cabana at Olio Trattoria Italiana is perfect for those special, romantic, sunset dinners. Why wait for life to get sweeter when you can add some La Dolce Vita instantly. This perfectly romantic spot combines Olio’s Italian devotion to food with Venetian hospitality, leaving you devouring only the best Italian cuisine while embracing the stunning view over the Arabian Gulf. The beach cabana accommodates up to 6 people, and includes a 4-course set menu with full table decorations along with a bottle of sparkling juice, flower bouquet and a special heart shaped cake.

Tropical Friday Brunch at the Garden Café Restaurant But the most exciting news this summer is that starting Friday the 3rd of July and every Friday after that, Jumeirah Messilah Hotel Beach & Spa will be hosting a Tropical themed brunch from 1:30 PM to 4:30PM. Everything from the decor to the food and drinks was carefully designed and crafted to recreate a tropical island feel.

To get you in the mood for what is to come, you will be served a Piña colada in a coconut shell as a welcome drink, setting a tropical tone for the experience to come. The set à la carte menu starts with salads and appetizers that will arrive at your table from the exciting live cooking stations. You are going to find yummy creations with the flavors of the Tropics like the Sweet Corn and grilled Chicken Tacos and Guacamole Beef

Mint: Get Instant Summer Vibes at The Poolside Café Fajita and so much more. There’s also going to be a live bread station serving Navajo flatbread and nachos and salsa. The main course includes a Caribbean Chicken Stew served with ginger rice as well as a grill station that offers meat, fish and chicken options like chicken, mango and capsicum skewers or Jamaican Pepper Shrimp. Make sure that you leave room for dessert, because you will be treated to a three-layer stand which includes Mango Balouza, Tonka Crème Brûlée, Caramel Tres leches and Pineapple Upside down cake squares. The experience is a journey of culinary discovery from start to finish in the beautiful Garden Café Restaurant ambiance for the entire family to enjoy.

Mint: Get Instant Summer Vibes at The Poolside Café Chilling by the pool is a quintessential summer activity.

This year we might be missing travel, but we’re not missing vacationing because we can still enjoy sitting by the water at Mint. There are five new refreshing drinks that will instantly give you those beach vibes you’ve been missing faster than any jet plane. Choose between the “Mint Summer Elites”; fresh Pineapple Juice with pineapple Fruit Skewers, fresh Mango Juice with Mango Fruit skewers, fresh Pomegranate with Pomegranate Seeds and fresh Watermelon Juice with Watermelon skewers. You can also enjoy the Chips & Dips served with Sour Cream, Tomato Salsa and Guacamole to fuel your chilling session.

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The Ultimate Couples’ Retreat at Talise Spa

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Summer Delights at the Lobby Lounge If you want to cool down from the heat, the Lobby Lounge has so many iced drink options. From coffees, ice teas, green teas, all of your favorite classics got a summer refresh. Coffee fans can indulge in a classic caramel iced coffee or the more adventurous Lounge Iced Latte; Coconut milk, Coffee vanilla syrup, Milk, Chocolate ice cream. There are some really exciting options like the Marshmallow Ice Cream that is fashioned from coffee, cookie syrup, chocolate, marshmallows and almond Milk. Lovers of a classic Tiramisu will love the Tiramisu Cocktail, prepared from oats, protein powder, banana, coconut cream, cocoa powder, coconut syrup and almond milk. The Green Apple Ice Tea is the perfect midday pick-meup and brings a citrus twist to your palate as it is prepared with green apple syrup, aromatic green tea, and squeezed lemon. We personally loved the refreshing Cucumber Mint, made from freshly crushed cucumber, mint, lime juice and sugar syrup, but our favorite might be the Tropical, a zesty yogurt, pineapple, Mango and Banana concoction.

The Ultimate Couples’ Retreat at Talise Spa Every couple needs some time to unwind and take a mental break from the stresses of daily life. This is why Talise Spa at Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa has equipped two exclusive treatment suites with their own private entrance and dedicated them to married couples. From a Jacuzzi, Experience Shower, a lavish Moroccan Hamman area and Himalayan Salt Room, couples 86

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Summer Delights at the Lobby Lounge will find the ultimate recluse and the space to rest and recharge while enjoying the most indulgent treatments at Talise Spa. The Himalayan Salt Room utilizes the purest and most beneficial natural salt on Earth, which has been compressed for over 250 million years, and research has shown that it helps to rebalance the body’s minerals and strengthens the immune system. Opt for calm and wellness for

you and your partner, and call the Talise Spa team at 2226 9688 to book this special package.

For more information, visit Jumeirah Messilah Beach Hotel and Spa’s Instagram @jumeirahmessilsahbeach. Reservations can be made by calling 2226 9666 or email jumeirahrestaurant@jumeirah.com.

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LEAD WITH COMPASSION

How to find the right balance of empathy as a leader

By Sara Sabin

We need more empathy in the workplace. The pandemic has taught us the importance of that. As I see it, there are two ways to go about driving employee performance and productivity. The hard way is promoting a culture of fear, profit at all costs, and general pushiness. Alternatively, there is the easy way: through empathy.

In a conversation I had with Steve Payne, vice chair of the Americas at EY Consulting, he recognized the importance of empathy at work.

If employers are empathetic, they are more attuned to the needs of the new generation of employees. Empathy helps to create the right environment for everyone to be successful.

And the impact on the bottom line is clear— creating an empathetic culture means people stay longer (retention), reduces churn even in an industry where it is traditionally very high (attrition), and creates a more engaged workforce, that is prepared to put more energy into their work.

This year, EY conducted a survey of 16,000 employees and 54% of global workers would consider leaving their job post-COVID-19 pandemic if they are not afforded some form of flexibility in where and when they work.

Millennials are twice as likely as baby boomers to quit. The pandemic taught employers that they can offer flexibility. To compete in the new world of work, they need to listen to what people want and heed the lessons of 2020.

There is no going back.

I want to stress that empathy by itself is not the whole story. The ideal balance is something I call neutral empathy. Where the other person feels listened to and acknowledged, but where expectations are clear too. From such a place, you can navigate a productive path forward for both sides. In this situation, there is give and take—and there are no surprises. So, how do you set boundaries as a leader?

Blend empathy into tough conversations Empathy does not mean you are weak. It means that you have a solid foundation to approach tough conversations. Many people try to avoid confrontation at work because they are afraid of potential drama. But the outcome of potential workplace conflicts is partially within our control.

As a manager, when you are conveying something that an employee may not want to hear, your approach is what can define the outcome. How you go about things will determine how they feel about you, as well as their reaction.

An easy way to think about it is to put yourself into your employees’ shoes. Consider how they might feel. Knowing what you know— applying your own self-awareness—consider 88

what would be a sensitive way to approach the conversation?

So in general, explain yourself, put the conversation into context, and practice transparency. Done in the right way, it may keep the relationship intact and make the employee more receptive to what you are saying.

Be very clear on expectations In an employer–employee relationship, clarity of expectations is key. Otherwise, it might lead to employees not performing or the wrong people being recruited for the job. A situation that is not good for you, as a leader, or for them as an employee.

It is easy to assume expectations are understood but unless they are expressly communicated, you leave yourself open to misinterpretation.

An employer–employee relationship is a two-way street. An employee should know what is expected of them and have the flexibility to comment on and meet those expectations in their own way while asking for the help they need along the way. And an employer should provide the requisite support structure to enable employees to meet those expectations.

That requires radical transparency on both sides. An employee should be able to be honest, which is more likely to happen if their boss and company is seen as empathetic.

Prioritize accountability Once expectations are clear, all parties need to hold each other accountable to meeting them. Relevant peer-to-peer and management structures should be in place to support that.

The reality of being a leader is that sometimes tough decisions need to be made.

If expectations are consistently not met, then, understanding why (which requires empathy) is key. Once the reasons are understood and support is provided, if needed, the behavioral change of the employee needs to follow.

If that doesn’t happen, then, allowing such a situation to continue sets a negative example for others in the team. As Payne put it, to maintain a positive culture, people need confidence that the system works, and bad behavior is addressed. That is where accountability is key. Sometimes, it is best for both the employer and employee to part ways.

Photo by Josh Calabrese on Unsplash.

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FOR THE LOVE OF CRAFT H&M HOME’S SUMMER COLLECTION CELEBRATES HANDMADE BEAUTY By bazaar staff

Decorate your home with beautifully crafted details handmade from natural materials such as linen, acacia wood, terracotta, banana fibre, rattan, mouthblown glass and Himalayan nettle. Explore the exclusive limited-edition collection where every piece is unique.

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For centuries, artisans all over the world have treasured craftmanship made by hand.

Knowledge of weaving, glassblowing, knitting and ceramics travels from generation to generation, reminding us to slow down and value the unique.

Discover the timeless and inspiring collection of handmade details for your home, where every single piece is special — for the love of craft.

Rooms merge in this aesthetic collection where the exclusive pieces create a cosy and personal expression. The cushions have been handwoven by a skilled weaver and dyed with plants, making them even more beautiful and inimitable, while braided baskets and handwoven lanterns made with banana fibre and rattan will make any space feel like home.

Style your summer table with beautifully crafted details. The water glasses and matching pitchers will add artistic appeal and a beautiful expression to the table setting. Every glass object from the collection is mouth-blown during an extensive process of special craftmanship and thanks to the individual techniques, every single piece has its own special characteristics. Add some structure and patina with the hand painted vase made from natural terracotta.

Serve your delicious summer delights on cutting boards made with FSC certified Acacia wood. This type of wood is well-known for its hardness and the grain can vary between straight and wavy patterns, while the shade of color can range from light amber to a dark mahogany. And for the first time H&M introduces cushion covers made with Himalayan nettle, a wildly growing plant.

Let your home speak of love and appreciation for you with this stunning aesthetic.

The collection is available now at 1st Avenue - The Avenues and online on kw.hm.com and the H&M MENA App with prices starting from KD 3.990.

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WHITER-THAN-WHITE PAINT

Why isn’t it everywhere?

By Andrew Parnell

From icy tundras to billowing clouds, the color white crops up repeatedly in our planet’s palette. This color provides a natural way for light from the sun to reflect back from the Earth’s surface and into space. This effect—known as the planet’s albedo— has a huge impact on average global temperature.

Imagine a world covered entirely with oceans.

Although the idea might evoke a refreshing sense of coolness, the absence of reflective white areas would in fact see Earth’s average surface temperature increase to nearly 30ºC: double its current average temperature of 15ºC. The ongoing decline in our planet’s ice and snow coverage, as well as being a consequence of human-driven climate change, is also driving further increases in surface temperature.

Worst-case scenario models predict that—if CO₂ emissions are not dramatically reduced by 2050—average temperatures in the year 2100 may be 1.5ºC warmer than those of the present day, thanks in part to Earth’s reduced reflectivity. The color of our world plays a key part in determining its future.

The famous white buildings of islands like Santorini, Greece, aren’t just for show: humans have used the knowledge that white colors reflect heat best for hundreds of years. Traditionally, a type of white paint called gypsum, containing calcium sulfate (CaSO₄), is used to cover such buildings.

A new study suggests that an alternative paint containing barium sulfate (BaSO₄) could be even more effective at reflecting the solar radiation hitting buildings back into space.

Walls and roofs are often painted with gypsum in Greece.

The key to the effectiveness of this new barium sulfate-based paint are the nanoparticles it contain that reflect the sun’s energy at a relatively high efficiency and at specific infrared wavelengths of 0.008mm to 0.013mm. These wavelengths match part of the atmosphere that is highly transparent, known as the “sky window.”

That means more of the reflected solar energy can bounce right back through this “window” into space instead of remaining trapped in Earth’s atmosphere and contributing to global warming. According to the study’s authors, when solar radiation is shone at barium sulfate paint, nearly 10% of the radiation is reflected at these wavelengths.

Applying this type of paint to buildings in warm climate regions will help to keep buildings cooler—a huge challenge particularly in urban regions, where the density of people and buildings can push temperatures to unbearable heights during the summer months.

The study demonstrates how painting buildings with barium sulfate paint can reduce temperatures inside the buildings by 4.5ºC compared to the outside air temperature. This 92

technology has the potential to significantly lower the cost of cooling buildings by reducing reliance on air-conditioning.

In the US, Walmart’s white roofs help reduce energy use within the superstores.

However, this whiter-than-white paint has a darker side. The energy required to dig up raw barite ore to produce and process the barium sulfite that makes up nearly 60% of the paint means it has a huge carbon footprint. And using the paint widely would mean a dramatic increase in the mining of barium.

Nature’s cooling tricks Barium sulfite-based paint is just one way to improve the reflectivity of buildings. I’ve spent the last few years researching the color white in the natural world, from white surfaces to white animals. Animal hairs, feathers, and

butterfly wings provide different examples of how nature regulates temperature within a structure.

Mimicking these natural techniques could help to keep our cities cooler with less cost to the environment.

The wings of one intensely white beetle species called Lepidiota stigma appear a strikingly bright white thanks to nanostructures in their scales, which are very good at scattering incoming light. This natural light-scattering property can be used to design even better paints: for example, by using recycled plastic to create white paint containing similar nanostructures with a far lower carbon footprint. When it comes to taking inspiration from nature, the sky’s the limit.

Photo by Yoann Siloine on Unsplash.

A COMPACT SUMMER WITH MUJI The perfect staycation is an organized one By bazaar staff

If you are starting to feel that it has been a long summer, you are not wrong. Our relationship with time and the seasons took a hit and our inability to fully enjoy summer as most of us are used to is definitely not helping. Which is why we’re grabbing life by the horns and transforming our homes into havens and spaces that we want to escape to rather than from. With a little organization and strategic thinking we’re using the compact life solutions from MUJI to add whimsy, fun, excitement and entertainment to life without adding any more clutter.

A compact life is not necessarily a minimalist life devoid of “the extras” or the items that you enjoy and like. Renowned British textile designer William Morris said “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” And that’s exactly what we’re aiming for here. And we’re going one step further, by displaying the visually appealing and using smart storage solutions to store the useful.

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Get on board with the fun One of the best ways to spend quality time with family and friends is challenging them to a friendly round of board games. Just choose strategically, because some games (we’re looking at you Monopoly) are known to cause friction. The downside of acquiring a large library of games is storing them. The Wide Pp Storage Boxes from Muji are perfect for this job. They are wide enough for even the largest

games and can be stacked so as your collection grows, your storage solution can adapt.

Hobbies Scientific research has been telling us for decades that leisure activities including crafting hobbies can protect us from stress and help us feel better. Whether you are a long-time crafter or just getting started you will realize that all of your tools, supplies and raw materials

can quickly take over your living space. We love storing our things in the square shaped Stackable Rattan Basket. The natural material makes it look like decor, so they look pretty when we leave them around the room as we work and then they’re simple to put away.

Summer Style Putting away your cool climate clothing might seem like extra work but it is a smart move for several reasons. First you can go through your items and decide what needs to be donated, mended or can be stored. Second, it helps you rethink your overall style and aesthetic. The zippered Cotton Linen Polyester Soft Box comes with a built-in lid to keep your favorite coats and sweaters dust free, but is roomy and can be easily stored in your closet without taking up too much of your valuable space.

Healthy Summer It seems that even though we’re not fully out of COVID-era living, the weight loss industry is capitalizing on summer. We gave ourselves a lot of slack over the last year, but we’re definitely

trying harder to workout more because we realized that it helps us cope with life. If you are doing it at home and are tired of tripping over your dumbbells, exercise bands or mat, then try adding some wheels to a large and wide Pp Storage Box so you don’t have to worry about carrying it. Roll it out for a home workout and just roll it back into hiding when you are done.

Mise en place in the kitchen Any chef worth their fancy knives will tell you that half the cooking battle is making sure that everything is in its place. If you are constantly searching your shelves for a specific spice or going through your drawers for the perfect tool then you are wasting your precious time instead of making a delicious dish. Reorganize your kitchen using the half sized Soft Polyethylene Cases to group ingredients together or the drawer inserts to keep your cutlery in its place.

Clean up time Spending more time at home usually means more clean up. Our favorite trick is putting all of our cleaning supplies and tools in the round

and deep Soft Polyethylene Case. The handles make it easy to transfer from room to room while we dust, sweep and wipe away while knowing that everything is in one easy to find spot. And once we’re done we just have to put it away and can enjoy our fresh smelling and spotless home.

Bonus Tip: Shop smart, not hard We have been trying our best to say no thank you to plastic bags when we shop because they are terrible for the environment and tend to create clutter. We have been using the large stackable Soft Polyethylene Cases that come with a handle to do our shopping. Just leave a bunch in the car and use them at the supermarket to easily carry your shopping from the store to your door.

Find your smart home storage solutions at MUJI stores in 2nd Avenue – The Avenues, Grand Avenue – The Avenues and Al Kout Mall or shop muji.com.kw. For more information, follow MUJI on Instagram @mujimiddleeast.

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AUK LAUNCHES OFFICE FOR RESEARCH AND GRANTS (ORG) Providing funding and resources to promote and support research By bazaar staff

To continue building research capacity at AUK, the University Board of Trustees have approved a resolution to launch the AUK Office for Research and Grants (ORG) that aims at building research capacity at AUK. The ORG will provide AUK faculty with research funding and resources, research related engagement opportunities, and appropriate training to support research and scholarly related activities and production.

Dr. Iyad Abo Doush, Founding Director of the Office for Research and Grants (ORG)

Dr. Rawda Awwad, President of AUK

As a species everything we have achieved or any advancement in technology started because of scientific research. From medical treatment to self-driving cars and a deeper understanding of our history to analysis of literature. The tireless work of scientists is what powers all this knowledge, but rigorous research takes time and resources. The availability of grants and funding really helps support researchers.

The President of AUK, Dr. Rawda Awwad, has appointed Dr. Iyad Abo Doush, Associate Professor of Computer Science in the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, as the founding Director of the Office for Research and Grants (ORG).

President Awwad stated: “Our Board of Trustees have always recognized the importance of research and scholarly production. The launching of ORG marks a renewed commitment to getting serious about making AUK’s research

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and scholarly production matter by ensuring that it has the desirable social impact that we are aiming for.”

“The Office of Research and Grants is a pivotal step towards demonstrating the potential of the American University as a research institution, which is an urgent necessity for the university’s growth and institutional maturity as one of the pioneers of Kuwait’s private education industry. In addition to supporting the faculty research activity, the Office will promote student research participation and give them opportunities to present and publish their research with the help of the faculty,” said Dr. Abo Doush For more information visit the AUK website auk.edu.kw. Follow them on social media to stay up-to-date with their news on Instagram @auk_kuwait, Twitter @AUKTweets and at The American University of Kuwait on Facebook.

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SUMMER IN THE

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BUBBLE TEA HOPPING

Dive into the wonders of tapioca pearls and milky teas!

By Samar Al-Tourah

Ready to go cruising with friends? Why not try stellar yet diverse choices of bubble tea on the way. A cool, smooth yet chewy drink will do just the trick to make cooling down more fun for the intense heats coming your way.

Elate @Drinkelate First stop, try Elate Tea in Kuwait City. With the choices of Matcha, Brown Sugar, among many more they will not disappoint. It’s quick and effortless to order, preferably (because of COVID-19) customers can call their number and wait outside for their order to be sent right to their car door. They also offer a broad selection of milk alternatives, which is a God send for the dairy-free consumers. Elate doesn’t just target boba-drinkers, need a break from the bubble tea hop?

Try their refreshing and nutritious teas with multiple stress relief and health benefits. Elate accommodates all preferences and leaves you wanting for more!

Kuwaitea @Kuwaitea_kw After stopping at Elate, you might need something that hits close to home. Either craving an original and different drink or sticking to traditional bubble tea flavors, Kuwaitea will do just the trick. Whether it be Karak or Taro bubble tea, Kuwaitea will leave your mouth watering. With the combination of the freshly made boba and the soothing flavor of familiar Kuwaiti drinks, Kuwaitea will live up to those expectations.

Located in Old Souk Salmiya, Kuwaitea stays true to

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its Kuwaiti origins with its location and its taste (with a flair of complementary tapioca balls). Staying in for the Boba hop? No fear, Kuwaitea also takes orders online with just one call away, catering to all circumstances.

Street @St_almakan Don’t be fooled by Street’s infamous Korean BBQ, they also serve delicious bubble tea! Wanting to try something new? Street offers a Korean twist rather than the traditional Taiwanese options. Found in Kuwait City, grab a refreshing Korean bubble tea. If you’re like any foodie, try to save your stomach for their menu with unique -- never seen before options here in Kuwait. Having options that range from boba to barbecue to ramen, a visit to Street will be worth the trip. Find anything to your liking, with a spin of surprising yet innovative options, their bubble tea is a must-try to say the least.

Joy Tea @Joyteakw Need to help digest your feast at Street? Walk around the Avenues where you can find your next stop, Joy Tea. Longing for Taro or even the classic milk tea Joy Tea has got it all. Drop by the Avenues where you

can buy all you wish with a fun refreshing beverage right in your hand. Joy Tea also offers multiple milk alternatives whether it be soy, oat, almond, and more.

They also offer a wide range of dietary teas and fruitful Korean desserts! Joy tea is also unseemingly convenient, once you go you are given a stamp card to make your bubble tea obsession a little cheaper along the way.

Lulu’s Tea House @Lulusteahouse Last but not least is Lulu’s Tea House. It’s the place to be when looking for flavors never done before in Kuwait. Flavors like Wicked Honeydew and Mango Melody are a sweet tooth’s blessing in disguise. While you walk into Lulu’s Tea House you get the experience of also trying Meme’s Curry to compliment your sweet drink. What makes Lulu’s Tea House a necessity is their remarkable flavors and tapioca, instantly the freshness of the boba radiates as you taste it. No one could ever find the diverse set of unique options anywhere else, Lulu’s Tea House is the place to be.

Photo by Rosalind Chang on Unsplash

‫وجبات الغداء األسطورية‬

Legendary

LUNCH Starting at

‫دينار‬ KD

‫ابتداء من‬ ً

3.950

SWING BY TODAY! Grand Avenue - The Avenues Arabian Gulf Street - Bneid Al Gar Sidra Restaurants, Mahboula 99 /TexasRoadhouseME

A SUMMER OF ADVENTURE WITH POTTERY BARN KIDS Discover the latest collection of backpacks that is perfect for fun days spent outside By bazaar staff

How could a summer be well spent if it’s not filled with adventures and exploration? Whether you’re gearing up for a getaway with your family this summer, or you’re staying put and you’re planning many outdoorsy staycation adventures with your little ones, they will definitely need the perfect backpack to be their companion along the way. From packing essentials like beach gear and lunches, the latest collection of backpacks at Pottery Barn Kids will be your little one’s BFF.

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First, allow us to get a harsh truth out of the way. As a parent, know that as your child grows, there is little you can do to influence their choice of backpack. Children believe that their backpacks are a form of self-expression, so all you can do is ensure that said backpack is safe, functional, and speaks to your child’s personal style. At PBK, the style choices are plentiful, so you can rest assured that you’ve checked all the required boxes of functionality and safety, and let them do the choosing!

The latest backpack collections to arrive at PBK include the renowned Mackenzie range with different themes and styles such as a Glow-InThe-Dark collection, Sparkle collection complete with fun details like glittery straps, Reflective and Critters collections. Aptly sized for smaller children, the Critters collection is perfect for toting around must-have essentials for your growing kiddo and arrives in many different cool styles.

Durable, functional and oh-so-playful, PBK’s sturdy, roomy Mackenzie backpacks are packed with pockets, straps and gear loops to keep everything in place. It’s made of water-resistant polyester with adjustable padded shoulder straps with exterior straps to hold a Mackenzie Lunch Bag and exterior side pockets fitted to PBK’s water bottles, it’s the most efficient and playfully designed collection around. You can also personalize Mackenzie bags with their name or initials for a smart, extra-special touch.

So, if your kid’s summer schedule is looking like starting their day at summer camp and ending

it with sleepovers at their besties’ place, having the right backpack will help them tote along their must-have essentials and their favorite things, wherever they roam this summer.

From their favorite Disney-Pixar characters, Marvel heroes and villains, Hello Kitty, happy unicorns and rainbows to dinosaurs, underwater creatures and every cool pattern in between, there are so many options for your little ones to choose from when it comes to the Mackenzie backpack. They will feel empowered by their choice the whole way through, and you will rest easy that they’ve chosen the right backpack for their age that is safe, functional and stylish.

PBK highly advises that you ensure that your child’s backpack fits just right, this is why they offer ample sizing options to suit younger toddlers to big-kids. In the Mackenzie range, we learned that the mini size fits children 36-42 inches tall, best suited for ages 2-4, size up to small and you will find that these backpacks are best suited for ages 3-5 (fitting children 43-49 inches tall). For older explorers, you can choose from the large size, which fits children over 48 inches tall or ages 5 and above, and the rolling version of the backpack. Front straps and loops offer a spot to clip on a matching lunch-box, perfect for all day exploration and leaving more room for your little ones to pack an extra toy (or three) when going to spend the day at the beach.

Worried about their favorite bag getting ruined from splashing around by the pool? Well, the Mackenzie range comes with a water-resistant exterior, which makes it super durable!

Next comes the question of what fits inside the PBK’s range of backpacks? In the mini range, there is space for everything your toddler might need from a water bottle, classic lunch box to stasher snack bag, utensils, a small book, blanket, change of clothing or jacket, to even their favorite plush toy! Your toddler’s first backpack will help foster their sense of autonomy, agency and will empower them to take ownership of their belongings and learn responsibility. Zippers and closures are secure but still easy for the little ones to use.

We love that, as your little one grows, sizing up with a backpack from PBK ensures that all of their essentials are accounted for. For example, in the large backpack size, there is a padded space for tablets and laptops, because we all know that they will be too busy having fun to worry about their devices. There is also room for creativity and you can fill the backpacks with pencil cases, more books and notebooks for the artsy and craftsy kids. Our favorite feature is the space for an all-in-one Bento Box, because active kids need their healthy snacks. With features like side pockets, there’s even room for the little things you almost forget about when you’re in a rush to get the family pack out of the house.

Visit Pottery Barn Kids at 1st Avenue-The Avenues. You can also shop Pottery Barn Kids online at potterybarnkids.com.kw and follow @PotteryBarnKidsMena for the latest updates!

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bazaar Apps

SOOSEE- ALLERGY AND FOOD SCANNER

LISTENABLE

STEMPUMP

WOEBOT

PASTE KEYBOARD

MINDSHIFT

Have a heavy load of dietary restrictions? Soosee can help. Soosee has the ability to scan ingredient labels just using your back camera. Whether it be allergies or foods to avoid, Soosee can manage your comfort with every meal.

STEMpump is an app created by students for students. In times where education is not so productive, STEMpump provides a variety of videos and live streams for any subject. Students can learn and interact effortlessly and effectively with STEMpump.

Do you ever find yourself constantly typing similar phrases in emails and texts? Paste Keyboard can manage to do that but 10 times faster. Instead of switching through apps to copy and paste, paste it to Paste Keyboard, where you can type the same message by simply using keyboard extensions.

If you love learning new things everyday but have a short attention span, Listenable is the app for you.

Whether commuting - or even laying on the couch, listen to a short 5 minute podcast about anything that sparks an interest. Learning is now more efficient and a few buttons away.

Help and guidance can be difficult to find, thanks to Woebot that can change. Woebot can help provide support as your own therapeutic assist. Woebot has changed the mental health of millions and is there to be at your beck and call whenever you need it.

MindShift is used to best provide calmness to the mind when feeling anxious. The app features strategies to help ease nerves and find ways to control your mind. MindShift is used to resolve problems and applies coping methods to improve anxiety in the long run.

play.google.com itunes.apple.com 102

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SUMMER HAIR IN ONE STEP Salon One-Step Hair Dryer And Volumizer Titanium Edition From Revlon Will Transform Your Routine By bazaar staff

Baby, it is hot outside and we find ourselves washing our hair more often in the summer. That means we need a quick way to get our hair dry and styled without damaging it with heat. And unless you have been living under a rock, you have probably already seen hundreds of videos on Instagram, Tiktok and YouTube reviewing the revolutionary One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer from Revlon.

Revlon recently released a special version called the Titanium edition that will help you get out of the door even quicker. The new version still has the same intelligently designed oval brush that features gently curved sides perfect to get closer to the roots for extra volume, smooth straightening results and beautifully curled ends.

Perfect for long hair!

Because the One-Step Volumizer is designed to distribute air quickly and evenly to the hair.

Dying and styling is much faster, and the time your hair is exposed to heat is greatly reduced which leads to less heat damage.

If you have ever tried drying with a round brush you may already know that the type of bristles affect the quality of your blow out. In the new 104

Titanium One-Step Volumizer nylon pin bristles with comfortable ball tips are used to gently detangle hair. The bristles are designed to help grip hair on curved edges for improved volume and control for smooth, shiny results.

Dull hair doesn’t look good no matter how wonderful the styling. The Revlon One-Step volumizer uses Ionic technology to keep your crowning jewel looking its best. Negative ions help maintain a neutral charge on the hair’s surface leaving the hair looking conditioned and smooth, while helping reduce frizz and static for healthy shiny hair. And the titanium coating ensures a better heat distribution and more shine.

The tool itself has 3 heat settings and a cool touch, for complete drying and styling as well as

setting. The Volumizer comes with its own travel pouch in a special gift set box which makes it your perfect companion on trips and chalet weekends.

Running to the salon every time you wash your hair is a luxury that many of us can not afford because of a lack of time, not to mention that it can become a huge expense. It is also limiting because it means you need to plan your lifestyle around your hair, which is just impractical. And while you can use a traditional hair dryer, the learning curve is very steep and it still takes time to dry and then style using more heat tools. The hair damage is monumental and irreversible. The Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer solves all of these things, especially that it is a very affordable tool.

If you are just getting started we have some tips to help you out: Step 1: Towel dry your hair to remove as much water as you can. We suggest using a microfiber towel as they are gentler on your hair and reduce frizz. If you don’t have one you can substitute it for an old tshirt.

Step 2: Use a heat protectant. Even though the Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer Titanium edition, greatly reduces heat damage. Heat protectants not only protect your hair from damage, they help the tool glide easier and dry your hair faster, with the added bonus of leaving your hair smelling fresh and sweet.

Step 3: Select the HIGH setting (II) for thick or coarse hair and the LOW setting (I) for fine or thin hair and start drying your hair.

Step 4: Blow dry each section lifting the hair from the root wrapping the hair around the barrel. To prevent over-drying, do not concentrate the airflow on any one area for too long. It might be helpful to section your hair before starting. Dividing your hair into 6-10 sections can make the process faster and easier. There are so many great videos on YouTube that show you how to do it.

Step 5: Repeat for the remaining sections until desired look is achieved. To create long lasting volume and curls, pin each section to the hair. Finishing with a setting spray or hairspray can help your style last even longer especially in humid weather but it is an optional step.

Get your hands on the Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer today by visiting roomserviceq8.com and following @beauty_appliances_kuwait on Instagram for great tips and more fabulous beauty tools.

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bazaar music

JULY MUSIC

In the heat of the summer, it is primary that there is a backing track to follow you around everywhere you go. Summer music is timeless, ranging from new artists like the Wallows all the way to classics like ABBA, both efficiently adding drama and emotion to every possible situation. Whether stuck in quarantine, tanning on the beach, or facing a life changing dilemma this summer, a summer backing track is a must.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

DEEE-LITE

THE B-25’S

ABBA

Title: Groove Is In the Heart Format: Single Release date: August 1990

Title: Love Shack Format: Single Release date: June 20, 1989

Title: Dancing Queen Format: Single Release date: August 15, 1976

“Groove Is In the Heart” is a universal classic that never fails to get everyone up on their feet. The song’s infectious melody along with it’s memorable lyrics are the backbone of the song’s popularity.

It was said that the song was processed to be complementary to listen to at the club, showing that the whole purpose of the song’s creation was to get up, dance, and have fun. Simply created for the enjoyable and carefree moments in life.

The song “Love Shack” by the B-25’s is an energetic, upbeat, feel-good classic. The song’s familiarity with the world is merely because of the feeling it gives people. Singer in The B-25’s, Fred Schneider admits “You open the door and all of a sudden it’s a blast of energy and fun.” The optimism in the song encourages a sense of free-spirited energy and a moment to let loose.

The hit song “Dancing Queen” had revolutionized pop because of the song’s catchy-fun lyrics, along with the groovy-disco beat. It was known that when ABBA first released the song, it was the only one that ABBA believed would be ‘massive’ in the charts. The song has been familiar with all generations because of its debut in “Mama Mia” and the freedom that runs through their body when they move to “Dancing Queen”.

HOT MUSIC SUMMER

WALLOWS

PHONY PPL

¿​T​E​O​?​

Title: Spring Format: EP Release date: April 6, 2018

Title: Why iii Love the Moon.

Format: Single Release date: January 13, 2015

Title: ¿​T​e​o​?​ Format: LP Release date: September 13, 2018

“Spring” is the background track curated for every relatable situation that almost everyone can see themselves in. The EP extracts every emotional experience we can see ourselves in from not wanting to grow up to finding love. All songs have something different that you wouldn’t expect either a killer guitar solo, or mind blowing lyrics. The Indie-Rock melodies and relatable lyrics make this EP enjoyable and reflective, it exerts the admired ‘coming of age’ energy.

The song “Why iii Love the Moon” is a collection of sensitive and imaginative lyrics along with a R&B laid back beat. They mention, ‘Real love is so hard to find’ in reference to a relationship where the time and energy isn’t reciprocated. They later say that they love the moon for the reason that ‘it’s constant’ and ‘right outside my window’, indicating that they want a figure to be there for them and that is the moon.

The album “¿​T​e​o​?​” illustrates the struggles of Teo’s life. It ranges from songs like “Wickedwise” about not knowing if a relationship is worth the time, to “Really Rong” which quite literally explains that ¿​T​e​ o​?​senses something’s wrong. The album’s use of soft Latin guitar mixed with an Indie-R&B melody is a combination never expected but never neglected.

The melody gives an identity to ¿​T​e​o​?’s music, it is a reflection of who he is. Band: Deee-Lite

Source: Genius.com 106

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bazaar techno

PHONESOAP

SOBRO COFFEE TABLE

THE CHILL PUCK

H2O NINJA MASK

GENEINNO S2 PORTABLE SEA SCOOTER

BEACHSAFE

Germs and bacteria have been an eye-opening avoidance recently, out of everything we own, our phones latch onto the most germs. PhoneSoap is a phone charger that uses a UV light to remove 99% of bacteria from your phone in just 10 minutes. Don’t let the name fool you, PhoneSoap provides other products for the clean freaks out there including laptops, and more, that disinfect and charge at the same time. The powerful UV light has been proven safe for use on your devices, and is handy for people who can’t keep their hands away from their tech.

The sea life crave has been increasing ever since Covid restrictions proceeded, but in a matter of time the sea can get a bit old. H2O Ninja Mask can boost your ocean experience by exploring new depths in the most manageable way possible. The H2O Ninja Mask is an all-in-one snorkel mask that has everything and anything you need to discover the sea. The mask contains a snorkel, a clear face mask (substitute for goggles), and even a mount for your GoPro. The H2O Ninja Mask ensures no complications, ensuring you to make the most out of your day at sea.

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A coffee table is the center piece for any gathering, take your entertainment to a whole new level with the SoBro Coffee Table. The SoBro Coffee Table has all the essentials for entertaining, a charger, a fridge, Bluetooth speakers, LED lights, you name it and it’s there. To manage the SoBro coffee table isn’t as hard as assumed. Everything from the fridge temperature, LED color changes, and volume control is accessed through a tempered touch screen on the tabletop glass. This coffee table is definitely a showstopper and makes all necessary resources for a successful get together accessible.

At one point, we all were eager to live our “Little Mermaid” dreams and grow a tail in our sleep.

Although that is impossible to a degree, the Geneinno S2 Portable Sea Scooter will do just about the trick, except it’s cooler than a tail. The portable sea scooter can motor through its phone app or even automatically. It can go as fast as 2.7 mph for 45 minutes and is perfect for traveling by weighing at 5 pounds with a rechargeable battery.

It is easily transportable and a blast to use while exploring the ocean.

Tired of cold drinks simultaneously getting warmer by the second? Even in 100˚ weather, The Chill Puck has the ability to maintain a drink’s crisp, cold, and fresh taste for up to 30 minutes. The Chill Puck only has three steps for you to enjoy, freeze it for two to three hours, stick it to the bottom of your beverage, and enjoy the coldness while it lasts (for a long time). The Chill Puck also comes in different variations, they make one for cans and bottles which come in several designs.

Amp up your summer by enjoying a long lasting cold beverage for an affordable price.

Ever find yourself enjoying a nice day on the beach, suddenly paranoia hits, your essentials are exposed to the whole world-- ready to be stolen.

Beachsafe was made exactly for this situation.

Beachsafe is a portable locked safe that can fit just about any essential. But wait, “what if my stuff overheats”, no need to fear, Beachsafe has an internal cooler to keep your prized possessions cool. Say goodbye to overheating phones and unease over your possession’s safety. Beachsafe is here for convenience and security to ensure a relaxing time at the beach.

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Akami Nori Chips

Shake Nori Chips

A SWEET MAKI SURPRISE

NEW MENU ADDITIONS THAT WILL DELIGHT YOU By bazaar staff

Maki is the first thing that comes to mind when we’re craving innovative Japanese cuisine. They have been giving us an unparalleled experience for almost two decades (yes, time really does fly when you are having delicious food). Their passion, attention to detail and always going the extra mile to make sure that guests feel taken care of is what differentiates them from everyone else in the Japanese dining game. And this time they’re surprising us with new menu items that were carefully crafted to delight all your senses.

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Ribs Crocante We love visiting Maki for an early weekday lunch as a treat for working so hard and to motivate us for the rest of the week. The Maki restaurant at Marina Waves might be our favorite location, you are practically sitting in the glistening Arabian Gulf. Minutes away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but still a world apart.

The staff are always friendly and welcoming and eager to explain the different dishes as well as help us make more informed choices.

They recommend the Ribs Crocante for an appetizer and tell us that it is a new guest favorite. Braised short ribs are covered in crispy rice, sesame seeds, teriyaki and homemade yuzu BBQ sauce. Ribs might not seem like a conventional Japanese choice but the sweet, tangy sticky sauce paired with the tarty yuzu delivers a big hit of umami. They also suggested we try two different types of Nori Chips. The Shake Nori Chips, nori chips loaded with salmon, wasabi nori flakes, avocado, thyme, black truffle pearls, soy sauce and extra virgin olive oil and the Akami Nori Chips, Nori chips with a generous serving of tuna, crabsticks, avocado, wasabi nori flakes, flying fish roe, hot chili oil, sesame oil, teriyaki, pari pari and horseradish cream. They were an

instant hit at the table, with everyone reaching for the next one before finishing the first.

Finger foods are the best companion to the deep and meaningful conversations we all love having. We compared flavors, sensations and experiences while enjoying the view.

Luckily for us we got a sneak peek at the new menu items. First to arrive was the Rainbow Mini Donut. Who doesn’t love the iconic shape?

The ring of rice was topped with akami (tuna), shake (salmon), kani, (crabsticks), caviaroli (encapsulated extra virgin olive oil spheres), black truffle pearls and salmon roe. It was a festival of textures, colors and flavors that played harmoniously together. Also in donut form was the Crispy Mini Donut, but this time it was covered in kani (crabsticks), cucumber, crispy mame (soybean) paper, and Maki Maki sauce. The crunch added more fun and whimsy which we always appreciate. Finally, we tried the Filo Mini Donut. The rice rests on a layer of crispy filo pastry and is topped with kani (crabsticks), and Maki Maki sauce. This one was a true party in the mouth. Familiar flavors danced on our palates, but also served in a completely new package. Our only tip is to order more than one of each because your friends might refuse to share.

Maki Roselle

[Continued...]

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Crispy Mini Donut

Rainbow Mini Donut

Matcha Donostia Cheesecake

Filo Mini Donut

The menu has one more new member: the Maki Roselle. It is hibiscus tea with passion fruit and raspberry syrup added to it, making it naturally sweet and fresh tasting. It is the perfect palate cleanser between the many different bites of all the things we were trying.

We loved all the new additions to the menu but couldn’t ignore our favorites like the Miso Soup, Oliver Maki Salad, and all the different Makis on the menu. We always indulge in the sashimi because Maki only sources the freshest, highest quality ingredients and we’re always confident of what we’re being served. We could close our eyes and choose dishes at random knowing

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[...Continued]

we would still love and devour everything that arrives at our table.

Maki is more than a restaurant, it is a relationship that has lasted more than 19 years so far. One that we’re willing to nurture and savour, just as much as we relish the experience of a Maki experience.

We couldn’t leave without indulging in dessert! Our go-to choice is always the Matcha Donostia Cheesecake. The silky smooth green tea cheesecake served with matcha sauce is always the perfect happy ending to a visit to Maki. It is subtle, with the perfect level of sweetness and richness from the tea without being overpowering. It feels like saying “until we meet again” instead of

saying “goodbye” because we know we’re going to be back very soon.

Maki has four locations in Kuwait – The M2 in Salhiya (2247 9721); Marina Waves (2576 3226) and Burj Jassem, (2290 1010). Visit www.olivermaki.com for more information, call 182 3080 for delivery. Watch the innovation on Instagram and Twitter @Makirest and Facebook at MakiRestaurant.

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bazaar movie night July Movies

IN THE HEIGHTS

BLACK WIDOW

FLASHBACK

Release Date: 2021 Genre: Musical, Drama Cast: Anthony Ramos, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Stephanie Beatriz Synopsis: In the Heights is based off of the original broadway musical. Located in Washington Heights, Manhattan, bodega owner named Usnavi (Anthony Ramos) dreams of winning the lottery in hopes of living a better life. In the process of saving every penny, Usnavi unites his tight knit community as they rediscover the importance of their Latin roots.

Release Date: 2021 Genre: Adventure, Action Cast: Scarlett Johansson, Florence Pugh, David Harbour Synopsis: The Marvel Studios production of Black Widow is an action thriller based on a freelance operative spy, Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson).

The film reveals the horrific upbringings from her past that prompt other daunting correlations about her. It breaks down the thrilling past of Natasha (Scarlett Johansson) and the makings of an Avenger.

Release Date: 2021 Genre: Thriller, Drama, Mystery Cast: Dylan O’Brien, Maika Monroe, Hannah Gross Synopsis: Fedrick Fitzell (Dylan O’Brien) predicts that life is going well until he unexpectedly has flashbacks of a missing girl, Cindy (Maika Monroe) back in High School. While processing the scarring flashbacks, he becomes determined to discover where Cindy went missing. He finds the origin of the reason to be a popular drug called Mercury, after taking it, he slowly discovers the terrifying truth.

JUNGLE CRUISE

SONGBIRD

THE CRIME BOSS

Release Date: 2021 Genre: Adventure, Fantasy Cast: Emily Blunt, Dwayne Johnson, Jesse Plemons Synopsis: Dr. Lily Houghton (Emily Blunt) is set on heading to the Amazon with the help of Frank Wolff (Dwayne Johnson), a wisecracking skipper.

They encounter many mishaps on their journey of finding the secret behind the future of medicine.

Even though Dr. Houghton means business in the Amazon, it does not take away from embarking on a chaos-filled adventure.

Release Date: 2020 Genre: Drama, Sci-Fi, Thriller Cast: K.J. Apa, Sofia Carson, Criag Robinson.

Synopsis: A pandemic called Covid-23 arises in the year 2024. Society is required to encounter the detrimental effects of the pandemic. Nico (K.J. Apa) wants to save the woman he loves from a quarantine camp, fortunately he’s immune. Yet, the rest of the world still has to deal with the unsettling obstacles of isolation, the government, and fear of disease.

Source: cinescape.com.kw 114

Release Date: 2020 Genre: Crime, Thriller Cast: Vince Vaughn, Liam Hemsworth, Clark Duke Synopsis: Two mediocre criminals Kyle (Liam Hemsworth) and Swin (Clark Duke) adhere to known drug kingpin, Frog (Vince Vaughn). Kyle and Swin create a whirlwind of mistakes which puts them in a life threatening position with Frog--even though his identity remains a mystery. They have to find a way to survive Frog’s threats or the consequences could be fatal.

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SMIXIN: INNOVATION FROM SWITZERLAND, NOW IN KUWAIT Don’t just wash your hands, SMIX them!

By bazaar staff

As the world struggles in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, most people would agree that the only way forward is to learn how to live with it and using the human mind to find ways for life to carry on while still keeping in line with the safest health protocols. Washing your hands is now more important than ever, as this practice has saved thousands and thousands of lives to survive previous pandemics. Cleanliness is key to staying safe, and now using the latest innovation from Switzerland, SMIXIN, which stands for Smart Mixing Inside, is now available in Kuwait by exclusive distributors Abdul Rahman Al Ghunaim General Trading Est. to make transitioning back to normal life easier and safer.

SMIXIN, denoting a smart mixing mechanism of air, water and soap, is the latest hand washing system for next generation buildings. It is sustainable, hygienic and super flexible. The machine cleverly saves on both water and soap by using 90% less water and 60% less soap when compared to normal hand washing machines available in the market. Even time spent washing your hands is shortened with SMIXIN, as the cycle takes about 12-15 seconds, with the cleverly thought out water to soap ratio that is shorter than the 60 seconds duration advised when using a normal faucet and soap dispenser as per WHO guidelines.

The innovative Swiss SMIXIN system can be placed almost anywhere, inside and outside washrooms, office entrances, schools, restaurants, and even building lobbies to provide customers access to a handwashing point, anytime and anywhere. The SMIXIN COMPACT 2-in-1 faucet offers a unique experience by mixing air, soap and water in an optimal way, leaving your hands feeling clean and silky. And a good conscience as minimal resources are used. Think of how amazingly more efficient 116

our establishments could be, let alone more sanitized, if all of the mainstream malls in Kuwait employed SMIXIN technology? The transition to reopening schools would also be easier, ensuring that staff and children have regular access to washing their hands in a shorter time span. This is technology we are happy to get behind.

The SMIXIN COMPACT system is innovative through and through, as it works using touchless technology. All thanks to its integrated infrared

sensor, the device won’t continue to wastefully keep on running, but actually stops dispensing as soon as the hands are removed. If you are looking to learn more about how people are using the COMPACT system, you can opt for the system to be connected remotely so that you are able to adjust parameters from afar, and get real-time insight on usage.

As soon as you’ve placed your hands under the faucet, the system is automatically activated to release the perfect, efficient mix of water,

soap and air to deliver a pleasant experience on the hands, effectively saving 90% more water than when compared to a normal faucet system.

The best thing about the SMIXIN COMPACT system is that a single soap cycle of one liter can deliver up to 5000 hand washes, which yields maximum sanitation results using even less materials.

The popular SMIXIN COMPACT is an innovative soap and water dispenser. It is an extremely ecologic solution that, due to the use of limited

resources, is also very attractive with respect to cost savings. With its modern design and a preset process steps we enforce behavior change among users. As a result, we can see improved hygiene levels within a certain population, and this can be applied at your company, local airport or school. Knowing that the spread of infectious disease and the cleanliness of your hands are very closely related, the decision to carry the SMIXIN COMPACT hand-washing system couldn’t be easier!

SMIXIN systems are available in Kuwait from Abdul Rahman Al Ghunaim General Trading Est For more information, check out www.smixin.com, in Kuwait visit www.akg-est.com and follow @Smixinkwt on Instagram.

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bazaar books

THE STRANGER IN THE MIRROR

by Liv Constantine, Mystery Thriller

LOVE PEOPLE USE THINGS

By Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, Self Help/Nonfiction

Addison is about to get married to the perfect man. Julian is a father in the Boston suburbs who has been missing his wife for over two years. Two people, both extremely different, yet extremely eager to find out the truth. Addison has no self identity of who she truly is, she had previously lost her memory but does not know how. In order to marry Gabriel (Addison’s fiance), she feels obligated to know how she lost her memory, and will refuse to be wed until she figures out the story behind her amnesia. Julian lost his wife, literally, his wife went missing and will not feel content until he finds out why and where she’s missing. Both are determined to find the story behind their devestations, yet seemingly their stories collide and build up to reveal both of their daunting and scary truths.

CHINA ROOM

By Sunjeev Sahota, Historical Fiction

Love People Use Things reveals the unwanted (but needed) secret behind living a fulfilled life.

Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus go into how decluttering your life with emotionallyattached material objects opens room for more deep relationships with other people. Millburn and Nicodemus unleash the concept that us humans are so consumed by material items, that we forget what matters the most, human connection. As minimalists themselves, they share their experience, steps to accomplish decluttering therapy, and unfiltered-hard-hitting advice. Both Millburn and Nicodemus go around the concept of reevaluating every item we latch onto, being that those items decrease people’s tendency to participate in real life relationships.

They include ways and tactics to relax and motivate readers about how to consume the minimum, but give the most to others, in order to feel content and experience an emotional bond with your community.

TREJO: MY LIFE OF CRIME, REDEMPTION, AND HOLLYWOOD

By Danny Trejo, Autobiography

Taking place in 1929 Punjab, India, Mehar, a 15 year old girl is newly wed along with two other girls. Yet, whilst the three of the girls get married, they have yet to find out who their husband is.

The women suddenly take on the responsibility of the household by catering to the three husband’s needs. She is met with oppressive gender roles by her mother-in-law and is not able to communicate with the men in the house, as her husband still remains a mystery. 61 years into the future, one of three wives great-grandson returns to India from England after facing racist notions against the color of his skin and his culture. In an effort to get clean from his drug addiction, the narrator (the boy) finds his roots and travels through his ancestry to find himself again. Both different stories, but both struggling with systemic defaults projected onto Indian culture.

WHILE WE WERE DATING

Danny Trejo, popularly known as the criminal who gets killed, slaughtered, and even stabbed in crime scene movies. Yet, the emotional obscurity behind the man in your screens, draws from real life situations that Trejo has dealt with. Trejo reveals the truth about his life struggling with drug abuse and crime. From a young age Trejo admits he had struggled with drug addiction in his abusive household, later that led to being involved in the criminal system. Trejo later shares the devastation and cruelty he’s seen while incarcerated. Yet, there’s a peak, Trejo also shares how after leaving that life behind and searching for redemption, he found Hollywood. He found a way to confront his previous life decisions by turning it into art. Trejo is completely unfiltered like never before as he shares the many ups and downs he’s experienced.

SPELLS TROUBLE: SISTERS OF SALEM

By Jasmine Guillory, Romance

By Kristin Cast, Fantasy

It may be any other love story, but will this love story take a turn of events once they face reality?

Ben Stephens works in advertising, where he then meets Anna Gardiner, a rising star used in Ben’s huge ad campaign. As Anna gets her big break that impacts her popularity, she is strictly focused on her career. But, now that she has met Ben, she begins to focus on other things.

They both fall deeply in love, but when reality hits them, how will the two manage to survive Hollywood and stardom? Will they persevere and sustain a healthy relationship? Or, will the press and attention get the best of them? Step into the world of a new sparked romance, discover the depths of their connection, and whether or not they are able to make through the chaos around them.

Hunter and Mercy are more than your average twins, they’re twin witches. Both Hunter and Mercy take on the task of becoming and training to be Gatekeepers in Goodeville. With great responsibility Hunter and Mercy discover the means of being a Gatekeeper and learn about their duty to protect their home. Yet, while an ongoing sequence of murders occur, the twin’s plan backtracks as their mother becomes a victim and unfortunately passes away. In the midst of discreetly finding ways to avenge their mother’s death and protect their home as hopeful Gatekeepers, they must discover how to use magic to their advantage, even if magic isn’t enough to overcome their obstacles. Along their journey, Hunter and Mercy must fight to stick together in order to defeat the bloodshed that roams around their home.

Source: Goodreads.com, Amazon.com 118

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bazaar scopes

nature—jovial like Jupiter, their ruler. Sagittarius’s natural enthusiasm gains them friends and creates positive new circumstances. As your timing is good, either ask for favors or do them. Open new doors. Help out friends, as it is effortless for Sagittarius and may make a big difference for them. Make a positive first impression. Spread your sunny Sagittarian spirit.

CAPRICORN DEC 22 – JAN 19 Hard rock is dissolved by water. The hard rock of the serious Capricorn nature can be softened now through the sensitive, compassionate influence of up to seven planets in water signs this month. Take off your game face. Look for opportunities for sensitive encounters with others. Elicit feedback about how you can make the environment more responsive and pleasant. Tell others how much you appreciate them.

Better yet, show them.

CANCER JUN 22 – JUL 22

AQUARIUS JAN 20 – FEB 18

Your need for emotional warmth and security is what you may long for.

Safety and comfort are likely to be your highest priorities this month.

Sharing intimate feelings and being nourished by the loving parts of family support the sense of meaning and connection. Cancer children more easily soak up the warmth of positive parenting. To feel comforted, spend time at home and surround yourself with loved ones.

Aquarius may have a hard time dealing with the feelings and sensitivities of others this month, especially from your water signs friends. At times there are seven planets transiting water signs, not a comfortable atmosphere for detached and intellectual Aquarians. Others may perceive you as cold, aloof and insensitive. Listen to and respond to the needs of others. Try to respond compassionately, not intellectually. Don’t attempt to solve the problems of others, as this is not what is needed. Wade through the waters.

LEO JUL 23 – AUG 22

PISCES FEB 19 – MAR 19

The emotional atmosphere around you is positively affected by the fiery heat of Leo mid-month. With as many as seven planets in water signs, they have been as comfortable as a cat in water (not so comfortable). unar and emotional forces wane and are replaced with creative and solar energies.

Solar, hot energy is more to your liking. Release the heavy and emotional issues. Focus on the good, find something fun and light to do.

Water, water, everywhere this month and that may challenge you to stay emotionally centered. Without protection, Pisces permeable psychic boundaries absorb too much now. Protect yourself and your aura by staying clear of large gatherings of people this month. Try this yogic psychic protection technique: Imagine a pinpoint of spiritual light above your head. In your mind’s eye, envision a filament of light spinning a cocoon of protection around you. Imagine the cocoon weaving itself to a point below your feet.

VIRGO AUG 23 – SEP 22 Your emotional atmosphere is rapidly drying out. The planets give you the chance to more easily implement change. This especially applies to issues in your home and family environment that may have been made painfully apparent the last four weeks. Set new terms and make adjustments now.

Homelife works better with a dose of structure and consistency. Take a strong stand and follow through. Strengthen families with renewed support.

LIBRA SEP 23 – OCT 22 “No time for us, no time for me” may be what some hear as pressing professional or financial demands conflict with the needs of those you love. Long work hours and duties may result in disappointing partners, friends or children. This time will pass and life can then return to a better balance. Avoid feeling guilty about a situation out of reach. If a you can work with focus and concentration, you may still be able to free up time to spend with those who want your attention.

SCORPIO OCT 23 – NOV 22 You now have the opportunity to shape current circumstances that lead to future success. If you are ready to make a commitment, this may be the time to take a deep breath, fix on your goal and begin. Move towards a goal by getting support from others, especially from those in authority. Call in favors to advance your cause. As most successful businesses depend on who you know, ask now for introductions. Rally the troops.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 23 - DEC 21 Sagittarius was voted the “most likable sun sign” in an informal survey of astrologers. Why? Because of their extroverted, friendly and easy-going 120

ARIES MAR 20 – APR 19 The monthly planetary movement undermines your ability to see clearly.

Your delusions and projections may tempt you toward ill-conceived actions.

Be especially careful with harmful tendencies. As your vital energy is low, you may be subject to infections, skin eruptions, exhaustion, or illness whose origin is hard to detect. Take it easy now. Move with greater care and deliberation. Take better care of your body. Be cautious around situations that seem too good to be true. They are.

TAURUS APR 20 – MAY 20 You are feeling the full force of Venus. This is a “karmic” time for personal relationships, so take care with matters of the heart. Difficulties that surface now serve as a ‘reality check” to indicate if the relationship is worth your effort. If it is, your willingness to correct problems now results in a stronger relationship. If it isn’t, you can let go without causing further harm. Appreciate what is constant. Ensure your future success by meeting challenges today.

GEMINI MAY 21 – JUN 21 This month’s planetary action helps Gemini’s mind to perceive from greater depth, allowing them to understand root causes and unseen patterns beneath the surface. If you are in therapy, this is the time for fruitful exploration and insight concerning difficult issues from your past.

Profound insight or breakthrough is possible. Use your mind. Tackle complex intellectual problems. Study with undistracted focus. Present your ideas to others as your words have genuine persuasive power.

Source: wisehoroscope.org

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