March 2015 Connector Dubai by Connector Publishing

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She Savors Every Moment With Her Grandchild

Thanks To Early Detection

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Public Ticket AED60

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Al Sufouh Road

shuttle bus

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note

started this issue having just returned from the idyllic Constance Ephélia resort in the Seychelles so you can imagine how keen I was to get back into work! You can read all about this amazing family friendly resort on page 34. Speaking of family friendly we’re hosting another exciting Coffee Morning for the whole family on Monday 16th March starting from 8.30am. Entry is free and as always so is breakfast - I hope to see many of you there! This month sees the return of the largest celebration of the written and spoken word - The Lit Fest. Another biggie is the Dubai International Boat Show which is looking amazing this year! Ski Dubai is set to help you get moving with their Snowrobics, which sounds like great fun. Plus, there’s some pretty big names visiting - from Bob Geldof and Michael Bublé for the music lovers to Jack Dee and Christopher Biewer if you’re more of a comedy fan. Don’t forget that Mother’s Day is on 15th March and that means it’s time to celebrate the most important woman in our lives whether you want to take her for lunch, make her dinner, buy her presents its all in here! At the end of this month I’m off to the new Viva Mayr Altaussee Clinic in Salzburg, Austria. I’ll send you a postcard - well I’ll be posting images on our social media sites at least! Enjoy! This month I’m loving, milliner to HM The Queen of England, Rachel Trevor-Morgan’s collaboration with Jacques Vert.

Managing Editor: Lynda Poncia Editor: Louise Carne Editorial Assistant: Angelica Lasquite Intern: Nada Ramadan Senior Sales Manager: Tara Cameron Sales Executive: Lise Stokes, Jonathan Gardner Green Page Listings Sales Executive: Melanie Manalo Graphic Designers: Aemi Grutas-Garcia Virgie Santillan Webmaster: Ronel Guevarra Accounts: Maria Liezel Inonog Administration: Irene Espinosa Connector is published by: Connector Publishing FZE and managed by Connector Advertising JLT Office 3005, Al Mazaya Business Avenue, BB1, Jumeirah Lake Towers PO Box 26435, Dubai, UAE Email: reception@connector-dubai.com Website: www.connector.ae For advertising & distribution enquiries contact: Tel: 04-3902727 Fax: 04-3908058 For editorial/subscription & Green Page enquiries contact: Tel: 04-3752113 Fax: 04-3908058 For Human Resources email hr@connector-dubai.com

Printed by Masar Printing Press, Dubai Contents of this publication are copyright. No material may be reproduced without written permission. Notice and disclaimer... The material used in this publication is intended to be used for informational purposes only. A sincere effort has been made to report accurate information. However, one or more recognised authorities in health and nutrition may hold different views than those reported therein, and the reader is so advised. This publication is not meant to be an endorsement of any specific product or services offered.

Cover by: Jalal Abuthina Reframe Photography www.reframe.ae

editor’s

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contents REGULARS This Month

Fashion Update

Dining Out

Good Food

Home & Garden

Kids & Education

Animal Magic

Beauty & Bodycare

Health & Fitness

Horoscopes

Classified Directory

features A COFFEE WITH… Laura King TRAVEL FEATURE Constance Ephélia Seychelles HAT TRICK Expert advice from Rachel Trevor-Morgan BON APPÉTIT Chilli Con Carne THE TOP 10… Parks in Dubai ADHD And your family EDITOR’S PICKS My top beauty treats PROVERBS To live by

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44 54 58 76 82

THIS MONTH’S COMPETITION WIN ...

• A home cleaning from Helpling.......................................................................................... 32 Connector MARCH | 21 www.connector.ae

e s i u o L o t Letters om.

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THIS month

I’m a huge animal lover and I really enjoyed reading the ‘Opposites attract’ article in last month’s issue. I love feel good stories like these! If only humans could follow their example and realise that we all share a planet and can all get along, no matter where we’re from and what our beliefs are. From Anya I completely agree with you Anya

Opposites attract

ANIMAL magic

year friendship was seen Another unusual 10 why natural Mauschen, a female here are many reasons in Berlin Zoo between best friends. a stray black cat. Their born enemies become black bear, and Muschi, beneficial 2000, Mausschen had Whether it is a mutually friendship started in for social need the years but nobody knows or 40 hip over relations lived there for . often seen ips are always amazing came from. They were cat the where bonding these partnersh up and Muschi would sleep s many animals grow sharing meals together In domestic situation but friends, lifetime paws. between Mausschen’s together and will become each other, but in animal sanctuaries Cats and dogs often tolerate each other. friendships can also evolve From inseparable and dog pairs really love cat few or natural environments. g bonds between partially deaf chocolate Tervel the blind and interspecies pals to surprisin in a look at the most seeing-eye cat bestie Labrador relies on his predator and prey - here’s live a happy life. Tervel, will warm your heart. order to get around and unlikely of friends that a due to abuse, had led was taken to a safari whose conditions are Bubbles the elephant he had a hard time getting she was rescued from pretty immobile life as reserve in the US after But black hear. the and see Bella to while around due to his inability ivory poachers in Africa, r. brought a stray cat called the park by a contracto then Tervel’s pet parent Labrador was left at does not get on difference in size Bubbles home. The feline, who Pudditat Despite the extreme with tely bonded best friends and love well with other cats, immedia and Bella have become on. her new canine compani swimming together! the tiger, Baloo the a guide cat for Tervel Now Pudditat acts as The story of Shere Khan t dog feel more confiden is truly touching. The and helps the disabled bear and Leo the lion together from a in his surroundings. three of them were rescued ly. its finest! abused them extensive This is friendship at drug dealer who had Ark the care of the Noah’s under live now They of d Pet Care Clinic. the US where the three With thanks to Advance Animal Sanctuary in Call 056-3960076. them are inseparable.

Mauschen and Muschi

Bubbles and Bella

’s getaw

Set the mo

ays

Radisson Blu Resort Fuja Valentine’s package inclu irah’s a five star des a stay Delu in the Arabian xe Room overlook ing Sea, a thre e-co and Internet . Extend your urse dinner for two, February, bottle stay for two and enjoy nights, betw of bubbly, chocolate a spec Dhs 1,175. s and rose een Thursda Call 09-24497 ial three-course set s, brea y 13th and menu for 00 or go to Saturday 15th kfast the rest www.rad issonblu.com/r of the stay. Pack ages start esort-fuja from irah.

City retreat

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Impress som with the Rom eone special at Fairmon antic Getaway t The package, avail Palm. This able all year includes acco round, mmodation a Fairmon t room, brea in kfast for two, a 60-m massage, prem inute couples’ ium grape beverage ame nity and rose at turndow peta ls n service. The price Dhs 1,299 is per room per for a coup le. Call 04-4 night 5733 visit www .fairmont.com 88 or /palm.

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Treat her like princess with a special Vale the ntin weekend pack e’s available from age to 14th Febr 12th uary at City Seasons Dubai Hotel. One night in a Deluxe Room, a chocolate and straw berr room brea kfast for two, y platter, flower deco ration, inher is price and beauty d at Dhs 580. treat Call 04-29427 ment for him and 77.

Room for

romanc

e Spoil your Valentine with a twoPalm’s Lux nigh ury Day dinner Sea View Room with t stay in Sofitel The served with a from Dhs a glass of spar special Valentine’s 1,750 per kling grap night. Upg cabana at rade to a rom e starting Mau antic beac bubbly grap i with a three-course h side e for Dhs 190 per nigh set menu and a bott le of t. Call 04-4 556600.

Suite hea

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e Escape to the serenity experience of Fairmont a romantic ally-themed Bab Al Bahr and Couples can ‘suite hear enjoy a onet’ pack inclusive of night stay five-course in a spacious age. dinn Bar and brea suite kfast at CuiS er at Frankie’s Rest aura chocolate cene. The mak package also nt & Gallery. This ing class at the hote includes a l’s atelier the is available 14th Febr on Friday Chocolate uary and is 13th and Satu priced per soft beverage rday couple s pairing). Alte during dinner) or Dhs at Dhs 1,999 (with 2,199 (wit rnatively, a Dhs 1,499 h grape Fairmont (soft View Roo m is price Call 02-65430 beverages) or Dhs d at 1,699 (gra 00 or visit pe www.fair mont.com/bab pairing). albahr.

Connector

r.ae

I thought the Crack your Cravings article was really great. I’m a veggie and have been for years but recently I’d been eyeing up the kids’ burgers. There was no way I was going to give-in, so I followed the advice and increased my intake of pulses, dried fruit and added vitamin C. T It worked! My cravings have gone and I feel so much better! Thanks, Petra HEALTH &

fitness

is your body a, but what - be phenomen ular food y natural crave a partic your are totall ins what when you Cravings ola expla to tell you Alex Gazz actually trying to them. althy one? to respond hy or unhe and how it an healt t mean cravings migh

and Leo www.connector.ae

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ia Ault thing P g in z a e. She n am has don nds, W hat a ) … h it ha ew (A coffe fe into her own li d is now r took he on her own an rs too! ut the struck o difference to o r a with he g ll a in mak do it to ! y r ts e to g s e g And sh inspirin such an horse Karen

food,” warns re.” le salt on your “Never sprink lead to high blood pressu can se, Shauna. “It you by surpri we’ve hey can take and of nowhere, dairy sensory come out Milk and be them. The all experienced the clearly “This could is familiar: in your al,” experience rs psychologic food appea the yn the of says Dr Maril . drawn image h waters at ne your mout Glenville (www mind’s eye, you inhale and imagi to ville. it, urge marilynglen thought of insatiable ionist then you feel the now - and com), nutrit its aroma, and have it right l women’s and natura have it - and with the restlessness until , and is list. cope given as babies experience health specia you try to food we are food - you often see ntration you healthy rt “Milk is the lack of conce that urge. Be they s being ved as comfo ed on or satisfi comm , often percei milk and cookie you’ve television food or drink nses on American way.” or unhealthy, gs are natural respo what that. that er in cravin d more than offere ed to wond unusual, also be a little of tryptophan, ever stopp before But it may but have you high levels g might mean should be the body, has on cravin milk ant effect “Warm er you a particular an anti-depress may help you just e it, and wheth which has you indulg g - and it is calmin ugh all? it at ille. “Altho which is very indulging adds Dr Glenv craving as having on food before bed,” dairy ncy, it’s at eight comm feel they could think of a s tempting to Here we look a calcium deficie to do with what the expert body. onal and mood something cravings, and your health and your to be for emoti cases, there could more likely some mean for you, try to get to reasons. In should Salt you improving l reasons “This is quite be psychologica of.” to indulge, a common the bottom if you’re going hormone craving, and ce, as She adds that is ic dairy produ erably lower in partly this go for organ e cows are consid due to peopl levels from milk. of produced eating a lot organically ready meals nson, g, and is Red meat Shona Wilki common cravin can be rn age,” says “This is a very deficiency,” says Shona ssed meals in the mode iron ies and therapist. “Procea case of wanting their twent certainly an nutritional es “Women in losing blood every so it becom Wilkinson. sly to.” high in salt, are obviou - which is you’re used m vegetarian thirties who more of what could indicate a proble gland. who may be are increasingly at gs month, and the thyroid Salt cravin on al glands or more comm because more and with the adren ms are on the rise depleted.” iron adds ing a meat being lives,” risk of rian, indulg “Adrenal proble g more stressful not vegeta just an organic piece leadin If you are women are quality and g is more than good cravin a vegetarian, your craving with fine. But if you are it may be worth Shauna. “If e craving, is of red meat g everyday, averagGP about this.” gettin be ry salt your you may not tackle ordina talking to hold the the way to enough iron. Long term, scratch - and to cook from ment with herbs and cravings is ring, experi after eating flavou that For find salt. gh you will while, your spices - althou food for a ivity to less-salted | 75 FEBRUARY unsalted or ‘recover’ greater sensit foods. Connector will unprocessed tastebuds l flavours in ordinary, natura tor.ae www.connec

THIS month

A coffee

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with…

RY 74 | FEBRUA

CONNECT

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OR chats

Pia Ault to

Professio nal Equine Pra Coach and ctitioner

18 | FEBRUA RY

What broug ht I was worki you to Dubai? ng for a multi corporation national in Europe transfer to and they asked Dubai. me to

in Equine Facilitated Learning. many out There are there and taking worth it. Go with an accredshortcuts are not that truly ited facilit have you reson y, one been here? and who can ates with you and 6 years. your How did Coach Feder give you the ICF (Inter goals you get into ation) crede national this profe Corporate prepared ntials. And ssion? burnout in for 18 mont be a path of self-d late 2010 hs of developmen led me down t, unless you training and and life purpo iscovery in search coach are of my passio , then the already a se. I decid certified equine facilit n degree in part can be Psychology. ed to pursue a Maste ated learni done in 8 r’s ng I also certifi and soon to on 9 months the programme after ed as a coach depending behind I launc leaving my corporate . career 2011. Havin hed my own coach Describe ing service g a typical in since I was worked with horse day. I start my s and riding 9 years old day at 6am it fuelled a a way to incorp meditation, with exerci desire to find orate the ses then enjoy Last year before either my morning and I found that coaching with horse s. way throu Alchemy’ or doing equinseeing clients in my coffee gh ‘Equine in the US, office e facilitated who offer programme workshops a partial virtua practi and I am ce and at the ranch now finally l to be in terms Coaching . Equine Assist where and Equin ed dream of addinof fulfilment and follow I want e Facilitated is not only ing my g coaching Learning about physi element to obser ving cal ground my coaching with horses as an the horses, work and practice. there are elements also many of mindfulnes What are to anyone s, which I the out there I get to help best things about who is feelin think speaks and lost. your job? g stressed potential and other people unloc k their find their it may be. life purpo What is your I get se, whatever motto? stuck, wheth them unstuck when My motto er out of fear, they is self-doubt procrastinat are others to live my brand promise: and ion or To guide a full-out, natural desert I get to do that in with horse more authe a beautiful power! ntic life, equine partn setting with my 1,000 er, Lola. pound Visit www .caballuscon What is the sulting.com worst thing . Finding out ? half way throu Coaching gh an Equin Session that e to horses! my client is allergic Stand out mom When I was ent in Dubai? my four-leggedgifted my horse in 2011. She soul mate is Horses are amazing teachewho helped heal me. humans, you rs and healer know. s of What advic e would you thinking give to anyon of entering e your profe Follow your ssion? available offeripassion and resear ch all ngs both in coach traini the www.conne ng and ctor.ae How long

Connector

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Connector

22 | MARCH Connector

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ur Crack yocode s g cravin

Tervel and Pudditat

Shere Khan, Baloo

Hi Louise, thanks for Valentine’s the ideas. It ’s also my husban d’s birthday on the 14th a nd I was a ble to surprise h im with a fabulous day, startin g with a co up spa day an d ending w le’s ith a wonderful dinner on the beach! Be st regards, Sylvia Glad we w ere able to help Sylvia

Valentine

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| 19

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CMY

Milliner credit: Evelyn McDermott; Photo credit: Jalal Abuthina, Reframe Photography. www.reframe.ae

THIS month

A coffee withâ&#x20AC;Ś Olivia Dennehy chats to

Laura King Presenter and producer for the Dubai Racing Channel

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What brought you to Dubai?

Nine years ago I was offered a six month job at the magazine ‘Race Week’. Once the six months were up I decided I did not want to leave Dubai and managed to remain at the magazine for another year. After this I moved to another magazine called Equestrio Arabia and then in September 2009 I started working for Dubai Racing Channel full time. Prior to this I had no TV training and had to learn on the job, although my knowledge of racing and some experience on the radio certainly helped.

Describe a typical day

In all honesty there is never a typical day for me, which is good. However to take today as an example, it’s a race day, I started work at 9am. I began by finalising and editing all our feature material - we record interviews and fillers to entertain viewers between the races. This kept me busy until about 12pm and then the rest of the afternoon was spent researching and studying in preparation for the races this evening. I usually arrive at the race track at around 5pm, when I will have a last look through the runners and riders. I go on air just after 6pm and we are live continuously until 10.30pm. Some weeks I will be the anchor while other times the interviewer, and I really enjoy both roles. At times the job can be quite pressurised and it requires a lot of time management, but all in all it is a lot of fun.

How did you get into this profession?

Ever since I was 14 I wanted to be a journalist, in particular a sports journalist, so after gaining a degree in English and then a journalism diploma at City University London I decided to concentrate on racing. I was lucky enough to gain a place on the British Horseracing Authority’s graduate scheme which helped a lot with my knowledge of the industry. I moved to Dubai straight after that.

speaking to those behind the scenes, and meeting new owners, is always a highlight.

What is the worst thing about your job? It’s a part of racing and thankfully very rare but I hate to see any of the horses get injured. They are the stars of the show and we get very attached to them.

What would you class as a stand out moment in your career?

It would have to be standing at the finish line when Animal Kingdom won the Dubai World Cup in 2013. He was the first really top class World Cup winner we’ve had at Meydan. Equally amazing was witnessing Dawn Approach winning the 2000 Guineas at Newmarket in England in 2013, and having the privilege of interviewing HH Sheikh Mohammed afterwards.

What advice would you have for any young woman wanting to get into your field?

Whatever your chosen subject is, whether it be cookery or Formula 1, you have to make sure you know everything about it, inside and out; there is no room for error and background knowledge goes a long way.

What are your thoughts on the upcoming World Cup?

It would be a great story if the American ‘rags to riches’ horse California Chrome could win it. It would be a dream result for American racing and it would get Meydan’s new dirt era off to the perfect start.

What is the best thing about your job? I really enjoy presenting live especially at events such as the Dubai World Cup as you experience an incredible buzz. I also love that I get to meet and interview numerous people; www.connector.ae

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THIS month

Emirates Airline Festival of Literature

The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature is the Middle East’s largest celebration of the written and spoken word, bringing people of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds together with authors from around the world to promote education, debate and, above all, a love of reading and writing. The LitFest, as it has become known, will bring, among others, a fantastic cast of over 120 authors, writers and speakers from 25 countries who will cover a wide range of subjects, styles and genres. It provides the chance to attend literary discussions, listen to readings, participate in workshops, and experience the exciting Fringe and children’s events. The event takes place from 3rd to 7th March at the InterContinental Hotel, Festival City. For tickets call 04-3559844 or visit www.emirateslitfest.com.

Jack Dee Live in Dubai

Jack Dee, hailed as the ‘Grumpy comedian’ will be coming to Dubai on 19th March to perform his comedy show at the Dubai World Trade Centre. After a 6 year absence, Jack Dee will return to stage to make audiences laugh at everyday annoyances. Supporting the comic on stage is funny man John Widdicombe who currently works on Fighting Talk, the award winning sports radio show. Admission is Dhs 300 (regular) and Dhs 500 (premium). Visit www.doneevents.com.

Trevor Noah - Lost in Translation

Fresh from a ground-breaking total sell-out season across the world, and having scored a seat on the incredibly popular and successful American satirical news show The Daily Show, South African comedian Trevor Noah returns to Dubai. Trevor will be performing at the DUCTAC Theatre with a three-night run of his critically acclaimed performance ‘Lost in Translation’ from 25th to 28th March. For ticket pricing and enquiries call 04-3414777 or visit www.ductac.org.

Hollywood’s King of Improv

One of Hollywood’s most experienced improv and sketch comedy coaches and producers, Christopher Biewer, will be in the UAE from 27th March to 4th April to conduct a week long kids and teens Spring Camp and evening workshops for adult actors in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Biewer will be delivering the workshops along with Miranda Davidson, President and Lead Coach at Miranda Davidson Studios, a UAE leading casting agency. Chris will take students through a number of classes: Acting, Improv, Improv to Sketch Comedy (adults only), voice, writing, stage set-up and rehearsal, all the way through to the final performance showcase at the end of the week. Improv to Sketch Comedy class will be taught to adults only in the evenings. Students can register for classes by emailing Selena at class@MirandaDavidsonStudios.com or by calling 056-4421266. Visit www.MirandaDavisonStudios.com for more information. 26 | MARCH Connector

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Wild Wadi ERHP

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THIS month

Abu Dhabi Festival

Abu Dhabi Festival 2015 (ADF15) will welcome some of the world’s most renowned musicians including Brazilian music legend Sérgio Mendes, maestro Riccardo Muti conducting virtuoso Anne-Sophie Mutter and the Luigi Cherubini Youth Orchestra in Beethoven’s Violin Concerto. Also appearing is acclaimed Peruvian tenor Juan Diego Flórez, pianist Leif Ove Andsnes, Iván Fischer conducting the Budapest Festival Orchestra, Mozart’s The Magic Flute and Lebanese American singer Mayssa Karaa’s international debut. Tickets are reduced by 50% for students and may be booked online. Conditions apply. Visit timeouttickets.com for further details or www.abudhabifestival.ae.

Othello - The Remix

Created by the Chicago Shakespeare Company, this classic tale of the tortured soul, Othello is mixed with a modern hip-hop vibe using music and dance to show audiences a brand new take on a classic story. MC Othello is on his way to making it big in the entertainment industry and is gaining fame and fans while also falling for a beautiful singer. However, he will soon come across a very difficult obstacle in his life, which he must overcome to succeed. For a single day and a single show only, do not miss this new take on a classic tale on 1st March at DUCTAC, Mall of the Emirates. Admission is Dhs 125 to Dhs 175. Call 04-3042340 or visit www.facebook.com/artforalluae for further information.

Bob Geldof live

Bob Geldof will be appearing live in concert at the Irish Village on Friday 13th March, joining his fans and Dubai’s Irish community, to celebrate St Patrick’s Day weekend. The legendary Irish musician, who will be performing a selection of his solo and Boomtown Rats classic hits, is appearing in Dubai courtesy of sponsors the Transguard Group. Tickets are priced at Dhs 120 in advance and Dhs 100 on the door, and are available from www.timeouttickets.com.

Mozart Finale

The Dubai Singers and Orchestra will be presenting an exciting Mozart programme on Friday 20th March at the Dubai Centre for Special Needs (near Safa Park).Entry will be by donation at the door. Martyn Bagnall, their Musical Director for the last six years, will be leaving Dubai at the end of March and, for his final concert in Dubai, will be conducting Mozart’s last completed mass and his final unfinished masterpiece, the Requiem (as featured in the film Amadeus). Singers from across the region will be joining the Dubai Singers to mark the occasion. It promises to be a thrilling evening in which the orchestra and the four soloists will deliver a marvellous performance. For further details, visit www.dubaisingers.info or email dubaisingers@gmail.com or call 050-4554134. 28 | MARCH Connector

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Connector MARCH | 29

THIS month

Snowrobics at Ski Dubai

Due to popular demand, Ski Dubai, the first indoor ski resort in the region, will bring the fun back into fitness with its unique ‘Snowrobics – Sub-zero Circuits’. In an attempt to break up the routine of the daily treadmill slog and stuffy gyms, Sub-zero Circuits creates an environment where each session leaves you feeling challenged and ready to conquer the day ahead of you. Sessions are held on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursday at 7am, and involve an intense 45-minute circuit workout including a variety of intense circuits using your own body weight, kettle bells and sand bags, all in the winter wonderland surroundings of Ski Dubai. All classes are Dhs 70 per class or for a monthly fee of Dhs 750, those interested can attend all twelve classes per month. For more details visit www.skidxb.com.

Dubai World Cup

Dubai International Boat Show

The Dubai International Boat Show is the largest, most important and most established event of its kind in the region. It is also one of the fastest growing leisure marine industry exhibitions in the world and this, the 23rd edition of the event, will be a classic showcase of yachts, supercars, equipment and supplies from both local and international builders, together with the latest innovations in marine industry. Admission is free and the event takes place from 3rd to 7th March at the Dubai International Marine Club (Mina Seyahi). Call 04-3086430 for more information or visit www.boatshowdubai.com.

The region’s premier equestrian event pays tribute to the Arabian love affair with horses and is also one of the UAE’s biggest social and sporting events. Taking place on Saturday 28th March at the iconic Meydan Racecourse, it is the richest day of racing in the world with a combined prize purse of US$ 27.25 million. The event features nine races, highlighted by the US$ 10 million Dubai World Cup sponsored by Emirates Airline. General admission is Dhs 25. More ticket offers are available online at www.dubaiworldcup.com. Call 04-3270077 for further information.

Dubai International Aquatic Championship

The Dubai International Aquatic Championships (DIAC) 2015 is a tournament that attracts local, expatriate and international competitors. Participants range from 10 years of age onwards and the event welcomes athletes from all levels - development to elite. The event is organised by the UAE Swimming Federation with the support of Dubai Sports Council and Hamdan Sports Complex and will include a FINA approved and qualifying swimming race (1st to 4th April), an open water swimming challenge (6th to 7th April) and a water polo tournament (8th to 11th April). Admission is free. For more details visit www.dnan-sportslife.com/events/dubaiinternational-aquatic-championships-2015 or call 04-2648717. 30 | MARCH Connector

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THIS month

Win with Helpling

elpling, the first global online platform for home cleaning services, launched recently. The innovative location-based service enables people to book professional cleaners within 60 seconds. The launch in the UAE reinforces Helpling’s status as the world’s most widely available online marketplace for household services. Its service is now live in more than 170 cities across four continents. Helpling brings the convenience of taxi or food apps to a new category: it turns cleaning into an on-demand service. Helpling addresses a key consumer issue of finding reliable cleaning help quickly, conveniently and without any commitment. Its simplicity does away with browsing classifieds, numerous phone calls and failed appointments when no one turns up. A simple 3-step process is all it takes to get professional cleaners to the customer’s door. Clients are asked to enter their location, confirm a date and time for the appointment, and choose a mode of payment. The booked cleaner shows up at the appointed time and payment is processed only after the cleaning is completed.

COMPETITION

Helpling is giving three Connector readers the chance to win a full cleaning. Simply answer the following question by 25th March 2015. Note: Prizes must be collected by 1st June 2015. To enter visit www.mydubaiconnection.com or www.facebook.com/connectordubai.

Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series

Enjoy the premier polo competition of the year played at the stunning Dubai Polo Club grounds on the outskirts of Dubai between 23rd February to 13th March at the Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club, Arabian Ranches. The Dubai Polo Gold Cup 2015 is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Maktoum Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai. This event will present the world’s best polo teams and players who will battle for the top place and stunning prizes. Dine in the VIP stands, take your friends for a picnic on the lush lawns, or party to the beats in the tent. For further information call 056-3732999 or visit www.dubaipologoldcup.com.

FINA World Diving Series

The FINA Diving World Series returns to Dubai from 19th to 21st March. This high-profile competition offers an annual meeting opportunity for the world’s brightest diving stars. FINA was launched in 2007 with three host organisers, Great Britain, China and Mexico and other countries have since joined such as Qatar, Russia and the UAE. The diving programme for men and women includes the 3-metre springboard, 10-metre platform, 3-metre springboard synchro and the 10-metre platform synchro. The venue is the Hamdan Sports Complex and admission is Dhs 40 onwards. Call 04-2648717 or visit www.fina.org/H2O for further information.

How many steps does Helpling’s process involve? A. 5 B. 3 C. 2

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THIS month

Travel feature

Constance Ephélia

Seychelles The sun had just started coming up when we landed in Mahé, so there was lots to see on the stunning (if somewhat winding) drive to the hotel. Inside the resort all was calm and quite, though you will soon realise that this is pretty much how Constance operates! The design is earthy, elegant and subtle - the stunning views from pretty much everywhere in the resort create the most captivating backdrop.

he Constance Ephélia is situated between two beautiful, pristine white sandy beaches on the island of Mahé and overlooks the marine national park of Port Launay. This enchanting resort is scattered through 120 hectares of tropical mangroves and hillsides, with the acres of space and lush gardens allowing for privacy and a sense of seclusion. All the suites and villas are spacious and stylish and come with all the extras, including free Wi-Fi and a mini Mac through which you can play music, CDs and DVDs. We were in one of the Spa Villas - with its own private pool and huge 34 | MARCH Connector

bathroom complete with Jacuzzi bath, walk in shower and separate sauna and steam room, I was wondering if we would ever leave the room to discover the rest of the resort! Bikes are available for hire and are the perfect way of getting around. When it comes to facilities, the Constance Ephélia has it all. There are five restaurants, five bars, two boutiques, a serene spa, a kids club, two water sports centres and a fitness centre. Plus, every day at 4pm you can go into the enclosure and feed the Giant Tortoises! The restaurants are able to cater to all tastes - from modern fusion cuisine, to extensive www.connector.ae

live buffets and classic beach side grills. All the restaurants are faultless, each serving the freshest of flavours. The stand out for us was the signature restaurant Cyann which served a selection of signature dishes combining French culinary techniques with the lightness and flavours of local and Asian influences. The U Spa by Constance is the real highlight - a beautiful spa village set in the heart of the resort’s stunning tropical gardens. Whether you are looking for relaxation, rejuvenation, detoxing www.connector.ae

or re-hydrating, they have it all. Choose from a wonderful range of U Spa Classic massages, facials and body treatments, which use the aromatic natural products inspired by plants from the Indian Ocean, or pick from the Shiseido Collection, which offers a range of delicious and holistic face and body treatments. I chose the Signature massage which lasted for a blissful hour and a half and nearly left me too chilled out to enjoy dinner…nearly! The Constance Ephélia is ideally suited to families and you can be as energetic or as lazy as you choose. From zip lining up in the hills, scuba diving and kayaking through the mangroves (don’t take your iPhone or expensive sunglasses we ended up in the water twice…purely from giggling though!) to just relaxing by the pool or on the beach with a signature cocktail. The South Beach is quieter and in the morning when the tide is out you can walk over to a small private island and literally feel as though you are alone in the world. The North Beach is a bit busier, the bay attracts local families as well as boats perfectly willing to take you out to explore. So whatever you are into, no matter how lazy or energetic you feel, how many kids you have or how old they are - this resort really does have it all and caters for everyone. We loved it and we will be back! -L.C. Constance Hotels & Resorts operates a collection of luxurious hotels and resorts in Seychelles, Mauritius and Maldives. Visit www.constancehotels.com. During the 10th Constance Culinary Festival in March Constance Belle Mare Plage, Mauritius is offering some special packages. More information can be found on our website www.connector.ae. Connector MARCH | 35

FASHION update

Hat Trick

With the most glamorous event of the year just around the corner, get ready to make an entrance at the long-awaited Dubai World Cup with some standout headwear. Rachel Trevor-Morgan, milliner to HM The Queen of England, shares her insider tips on finding the perfect finishing touch to any race-worthy ensemble.

Use your head Although I would certainly say that there are no set rules, an important consideration when it comes to finding your ideal headpiece is choosing the right shape for your face. My collaboration with Jacques Vert includes an array of styles suitable for all profiles. Here is a rough guide to help narrow down the options: • Oval - you are spoilt for choice as lots of styles flatter oval face shapes. Choose smaller pillboxes, disc headpieces or wider brims, as they will all suit your proportions. Keep an eye on your whole silhouette to ensure the balance is right and the brim doesn’t overpower your features. • Round - to add definition and elongate your face, go for taller hats and pillbox styles. Vertical design features and trimmings can make a big difference, directing the eye upward and off the face. • Square - wide brims and asymmetric lines are good options, or try a pillbox - just remember to wear the hat at an angle to soften your jawline and help slim your face shape. • Oblong - to achieve some width, avoid small hats and instead go for pieces that have volume in the trimming, such as the addition of 36 | MARCH Connector

flowers or feathers, as balance is key. Cloche hats also work well. • Heart Shaped - another face shape that suits a variety of styles. Disc headpieces and slice hats work particularly well, with asymmetric details providing balance to prevent your chin from looking narrower. Keep an eye on your outfit Firstly, wear a hat that complements your whole ensemble. Ensure you are taking into account your bag and shoes as well as thinking about your overall silhouette and do not forget to consider any prints or patterns. Complement your body shape Whatever the occasion, a good trick when hat shopping is to stand in front of a fulllength mirror, studying your reflection from all sides. This ensures your chosen piece is flattering from all angles - an important consideration as a hat can help define your silhouette. Even if you do not feel ready to wear a full brimmed hat, a smaller disc headpiece is great for a subtle effect that can still make an impact. Remember that your choice of style should be in proportion to your body shape. Feathers are a key trend this season. Choose your style and own it Finally, you should always make sure to choose a style that makes you feel confident and elegant - a piece that blends perfectly with your outfit and character. Remember that you should be wearing the hat and not the other way around. You cannot go wrong with a neutral colour that can be worn with a variety of different outfits so feel free to experiment with your look. Most importantly - have fun and enjoy the races! Rachel Trevor-Morgan has collaborated on a range of hats with British occassionwear brand Jacques Vert, available from the brand’s concession which opened recently in Debenhams, Mirdif City Centre. www.connector.ae

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Theme dreams

Al Bustan Rotana Dubai offers you its biggest theme night so far - Benihana and Blue Elephant Restaurants Mega Night every Tuesday and Thursday starting from Dhs 209 per person. In addition, Blue Elephant invites you to a Royal Thai Buffet every Tuesday and Sawasdee Siam Night every Thursday, both with prices starting from Dhs 209; and Benihana will host Sushi Night every Tuesday and Thursday and Seafood Teppanyaki Night every Wednesday, both Dhs 209, as well as Sushi Teppan Night every Sunday priced at Dhs 239. Visit www.rotanatimes.com or call 04-2820000.

Tasty treats

Sofitel The Palm, Dubai has a host of dining offers this month including the Hong Loong’s Dim Sum Brunch every Saturday priced at Dhs 180 (with tea pairing) and Dhs 280 (with selected beverages); the Porterhouse Saturday Roast is priced at Dhs 180 (with one glass of house reds and whites); and the daily Porterhouse Party Grill is priced at Dhs 720 for 2 people. In addition, Moana lives up to its Polynesian name by presenting the Ocean Brunch every Friday for Dhs 450 (selected beverages) and Dhs 300 (nonalcoholic beverages), both prices include pool and beach access. Call 04-4555656 or visit www.sofitel-dubai-thepalm.com.

The art of pairing

Blends, the premium beverage lounge at The Address Dubai Marina, is perfect for those who enjoy the art of pairing some of the finest selected beverages with delicately prepared cuisines. Perfect for all times of the day; whether for lunch, after work or just catching up with friends, expect a delightful experience in an intimate warm setting infused with jazz melodies. For further information call 04-4367777.

A quintessentially British afternoon tea

Grosvenor House Dubai’s Michelin-starred celebrity chef Gary Rhodes OBE is bringing his legendary quintessentially British afternoon tea to Rhodes W1. The exquisite Rhodes W1 afternoon tea menu boasts a fine assortment of sumptuous delicacies, including the prerequisite mini finger sandwiches with quail’s egg mayonnaise, cress and cream cheese as well as the flavoursome onion and herb Croque Monsieur. Afternoon tea is served at Rhodes W1 at Grosvenor House, Dubai from Wednesday to Saturday, from 2.30 to 5pm. For reservations call 04-3176000.

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Flavours of the French Riviera

Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach brings a sophisticated blend of St Tropez to Sea Fu. Indulge in a wide variety of specially designed dishes inspired by the taste of the French Riviera. Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, ‘St. Tropez’ evenings will be unveiled between 5 to 7pm including a selection of innovative sharing platters, beverages and live music from the resident DJ. During St. Tropez evenings, you can enjoy the delicacies along with a selection of grapes such as Whispering Angel starting from Dhs 60 by the glass instead of Dhs 95, a bottle (75 cl) for Dhs 300 instead of Dhs 540 and Magnums (150cl) for Dhs 590 instead of Dhs 1,100. For bookings call 04-2707777.

Desert delights

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa invites you to Masala Restaurant for the Holi Festival. Known as the ‘festival of colours’, it will be celebrated on 6th and 7th March with a special set menu for lunch and dinner priced at Dhs 175. Alternatively, the Al Hadheerah Mother’s Day dinner promotion on 21st March, priced at Dhs 425, means that mothers accompanied by a minimum of three paying family members will dine free and will receive a heart shaped cake and bouquet of flowers. Call 04-8096194.

The one to watch

This March, Frankie’s Bar & Grill invites you to a pre-Dubai World Cup celebration. True to its horse racing heritage, the venue, named after internationally renowned champion jockey Frankie Dettori, will host a ‘One to Watch’ extravaganza on Wednesday 25th March, showcasing the low down on runners and riders and all that guests need to know prior to the largest horse racing event in the world. The evening, hosted by Harry Tregoning, is priced at Dhs 400 for the four course set menu and welcome drink or Dhs 500 for the four course set menu and a bottle of house white or red grape. With limited spaces, pre-booking is essential. For reservations call 04-3994311 or email frankiesalfattan@ rmalhospitality.ae.

Start the weekend early

The Pool Lounge at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach presents a delicious poolside lounging experience every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Enjoy the frosty beats by the house DJ every Wednesday, the live jazz singer on Thursdays and the saxophonist on Fridays from 8pm to 11pm. The live cooking barbecue station includes sand lobster, tiger prawns, beef ribs, honey-glazed chicken and much more. Great shisha flavours are also available at the Pool Lounge from 7pm onwards. For reservations call 04-4498836 or email Hotel.Jumeirahbeach.FB@moevenpick.com. www.connector.ae

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DINING out

Something for everyone

The Address Dubai Mall offers the Mother and Daughter Afternoon Tea at Karat throughout March for Dhs 125, and on Mother’s Day weekend (20th and 21st) the pastry chef will present a cake to mark the occasion. Alternatively, the Farmer’s Market Experience at Na3Na3 every Friday is where you can sample organic treats for Dhs 295 (soft beverages) and Dhs 380 (selected house beverages). Cabana hosts a barbecue from Sunday to Wednesday priced at Dhs 180 for lunch or Dhs 220 for dinner; and Ladies Night every Tuesday features 50% off selected beverages for the ladies. Call 04-8883444 or email dine@theaddress.com.

All you can eat

From Saturday to Thursday, Yalumba at Le Meridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre offers an all you can eat and drink buffet with different themed nights. Saturday is Mediterranean Night, Sunday is Carving Night, Monday it is all about curry, Wednesday offers a taste of Arabia, and Thursday is Cocktail Night. Prices from Saturday to Monday and on Wednesday are Dhs 159 (non alcoholic beverages) and Dhs 219 (regular beverages); and Thursdays are Dhs 159 (non alcoholic beverages) and Dhs 249 (regular beverages). Call 04-7022328.

Time for tea

Have a break from shopping with an afternoon tea that won’t leave you feeling guilty afterwards. Available at Aspen by Kempinski from 3pm to 6pm, and priced at Dhs 295 per couple, this is the perfect way to end an afternoon of shopping in Mall of the Emirates or a fantastic way to catch up with friends. Call 04-4095999.

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Watch the Six Nations

D&A at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel offers a delicious Six Nation’s Platter. Enjoy a selection of five bar snacks (mini fish and chips, cold cuts, aged cheese, Scottish eggs and chips) and two pints of hops for Dhs 150. This is available until 21st March, on game days. For more information call 04-3665866 or visit www.jumeirah.com.

Birthday celebrations

In celebration of its first year in Dubai, the Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah invites guests to celebrate their own birthdays with a complimentary Waldorf Astoria Brunch. Throughout the month of March, guests whose birthdays fall on a Friday and make a reservation for four people or more will receive their brunch complimentary. Official identification showing proof of birthday is required. Brunch prices are Dhs 345 (soft drinks), Dhs 465 (house beverages) and Dhs 600 (with bubbly). Additionally, throughout March proceeds from the sale of the 1st Anniversary Afternoon Tea will go to the Hilton Foundation that provides funds to non profit organisations working to improve the lives of disadvantaged and vulnerable people throughout the world. Afternoon Tea starts from Dhs 150. Visit www.waldorfastoria.com/dubai. www.connector.ae

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DINING out

te & Tes d e i r T

Eggspectation @ The Beach, JBR Though the name suggests breakfast, or at least it does to me, Eggspectation has a complete and interesting all day menu to choose from. That said, our friends told us we had to try the breakfast!

What we ate

I went for the Chicken Benedict, two perfectly poached eggs on grilled chicken with Gruyère cheese and a toasted English muffin, topped with their famous hollandaise sauce and served with Lyonnaise-style potatoes. My partner went, ambitiously I thought, for the All American Fill up with two any-style eggs, perfectly seasoned Lyonnaise-style potatoes, beef bacon, sausages, baked beans and toast. We washed our breakfast down with a Tropical Teaser - a mango, banana and pineapple blend with fresh orange juice, and a Go Bananas - banana, strawberry and yogurt with just a touch of honey.

Verdict

Carluccio’s @ The Walk, JBR Carluccio’s latest restaurant in Dubai opened recently at The Walk, JBR and we went to check it out. There is a nice buzzy vibe about the place with its bright colours, bright lighting and of course, great views. Enjoy authentic Italian dishes freshly prepared every day for breakfast, lunch and dinner; or for great tastes at home try their Foodshop which offers the freshest products from Italy.

What we ate

We went for the antipasti sharing plate which included home baked focaccia bread, bresaola, stuffed chicken leg, beef salami, green bean salad with mint, roasted peppers with basil pesto, marinated olives, sweet sun dried tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella. The sharing platter was delicious and the different foods really complemented each other. For mains we had the salmon pesto and the beef medallions - which were both really nice.

Delicious and filling! I couldn’t eat a thing for the rest of the day - great for the diet!

Verdict

Price

Breakfast starts from Dhs 38, with juices from Dhs 22. For more information call 04-4307252. -L.C. 42 | MARCH Connector

Great vibe and great food!

Starters from Dhs 38 and mains from Dhs 39.

For reservations call 04-5520802 or visit www.carluccios.com. -J.G. www.connector.ae

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GOOD food

Bon CHILLI CON CARNE

UK Mother’s Day falls on Sunday 15th March this year, so why not take the time to surprise your mum with a tasty supper cooked by you? This Chilli Con Carne recipe is easy to follow, just make a grocery list from below to ensure you have all the ingredients, then lay the table, light the candles and don’t forget the flowers, card and of course a big thanks for Mum.

Serves 3-4

Ingredients 450 grams (1lb) good quality beef mince 1 white onion finely chopped 1 red pepper deseeded and finely chopped 1 green pepper deseeded and finely chopped 2 cloves garlic crushed 400 gram tin chopped tomatoes 400 gram tin red kidney beans (drained and rinsed) 1 packet Chilli Con Carne mix (medium or strong) Olive oil Salt and pepper to taste

Method

Brown the mince in a frying pan for 4-5 minutes and drain excess liquid off in a sieve. In a saucepan heat a little olive oil and sauté the chopped onions, peppers and crushed garlic (do not burn). Add the drained mince and chilli mix powder and stir to coat well, add salt and pepper to taste. Next add the chopped tomatoes and drained kidney beans and bring to the boil. Half cover the pan and simmer for about one hour, stirring occasionally to stop chilli from catching the bottom of the pan. Taste and season. This can also be cooked in a casserole dish in the oven for 2 hours on low heat. Serve with boiled rice or baked potatoes and garlic bread, along with sides of sour cream, fresh chopped coriander, lime wedges and nachos. Notes: you can replace the minced beef with diced beef. Also you can add one teaspoon of cocoa powder to enhance the flavour. The sauce can be cooked the day before and kept in the fridge and leftovers can be frozen.

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GOOD food

Eating well Eating a well balanced diet has many benefits. Your energy levels will be optimised, your strength will increase, you will look healthier, your immune system will be tougher, you will think more clearly and

handle stress better. Also your chance of getting diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease will decrease. Preparing light meals can be easy and fast. Try the following recipe, it is yummy and full of goodness.

Chicken Fillet With Spring Vegetables Total Servings: 4

Directions:

Ingredients: 1 egg white 5 tbsp finely grated parmesan 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 400g new potatoes, cut into small cubes 140g frozen peas good handful baby spinach leaves 1 tbsp white wine vinegar 2 tsp olive oil

With thanks to Liveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ly Executive Chef Kassem Taha. For further information contact Liveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ly on 04-3481008 or visit www.lively.ae.

Serving size: 1 fillet Calories per serving: 339 Kcal Protein: 42g Carbs: 20g Fat: 11g Preparation time: 10 minutes

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Heat grill to medium and line the grill pan with foil. Beat the egg white on a plate with a little salt and pepper. Tip the parmesan onto another plate. Dip the chicken first in egg white, then the cheese. Grill the coated chicken for 10 to 12 minutes, turning once until browned and crisp. Meanwhile, boil the potatoes for 10 minutes, adding the peas for the final 3 minutes, then drain. Toss the vegetables with the spinach leaves, vinegar, oil and season to taste. Divide between four warm plates and serve with the chicken.

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HOME & garden

New spring collections for your HOME Fiore Rosso

Origins Living 2XL Furniture & Home DĂŠcor

Crate&Barrel Zara Home

homes r us

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The One

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o’de rose

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ADVERTORIAL

Ratna Sharma, Creative Director of CASA-ELAN says that adding cushions to your living room is an excellent opportunity to add colour and texture to a room and can be as effective as adding a new piece of artwork to your walls.

Modern Look • Pillow number and placement: Go for an odd number, like three or five. • Shape and size: Squares should be large enough to showcase a solid colour or a pattern. Oblongs are nice since they are a little less expected. • Fabric: A limited colour palette and large geometric prints on smooth, tightly woven fabrics, like cotton and linen, work well in a modern environment. • Trim: Most trim is traditional, but if you want to use it, make sure it mirrors the pillow’s primary hue but retains a solid block of colour. Traditional Look • Pillow number and placement: Two or four large pillows arranged on either side of a sofa impart symmetry and order. • Shape and size: For eye-pleasing proportions, try pairing large square pillows with smaller squares or circles. • Fabric: Velvet and silk look great in a classic setting. Pair a busy pattern with a simple one, a complicated plaid with a large floral that 50 | MARCH Connector

is just two or three colours. A print and a coordinating solid will work, too. • Trim: Use big trim, like tassel fringe, for larger pillows to give them more oomph. Eclectic Look • Pillow number and placement: Try two pillows in one corner with a third at the opposite end. • Shape and size: Pick similarly sized pillows to tie together a diverse collection. • Fabric: You can have a couple of pillows that match or five pillows in five different fabrics, but make sure there is at least one colour in common to give the arrangement some unity. • Trim: Avoid excess; keep trim simple and express yourself more through fabrics. Casa-Elan production unit in Al Quoz Dubai manufactures gorgeous pillows and cushions for all budgets. Visit Casa-Elan Factory Outlet and pick some up today! Visit elandubai.wordpress.com or call 04-3466419, 055-3124555 and 052-8757257. www.connector.ae

HOME & garden

Good home

habits Are you going on vacation? Don’t forget to pack up the most important thing, your home.

he worst feeling is leaving your home to come back to a stuffy place with dusty odour, dirty laundry and a foul smelling fridge. Avoid finding yourself in a frantic state, moments before you start your vacation. Plan ahead and follow some easy tips provided by MPlus+ to protect your home while you’re away on vacation. • Keep one air conditioning unit switched on at a consistent level within the home leaving all the room doors open to let the air circulate or adjust your thermostat. If you are concerned about keeping the bills down, then make

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sure it is on, but at a higher temperature and invest in the Aircon Eco Saver that reduces electricity consumption on spilt A/C units. • Ask your home maintenance provider to perform preventative maintenance on all air conditioners and water outlets. • Unplug all non-essential appliances. You may not know but electronics that are plugged can use a lot of power even when turned off. • Switch off all lights. • It is important to get the kitchen under control. Make sure to clean up the dirty plates and cutlery, take out all the trash, empty the fridge as the smallest of crumbs can attract those pesky ants. • Ensure a deep clean before you leave. Getting back to your daily routine after vacation can be rough; returning to a clean home makes it a lot easier. If your to-do list is long, hire a maintenance company to do it for you. • Bring in all outdoor furniture (if any). • Stop newspaper delivery. A pile of newspapers at your doorstep is an easy sign of an empty home. • Lock your house. Make sure all windows, doors and even the little bathroom windows you think no one could possibly fit into are secured well. • And most importantly, invest in a security alarm and cameras which is connected with your mobile device if you don’t already have one. www.connector.ae

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KIDS & education

Parks in

Dubai

Sick of being indoors? Grab the kids and get them outside to enjoy some fresh air at one of Dubai’s many public parks. Here’s our top ten… Al Barsha Pond Park One of Dubai’s newest parks, Al Barsha Pond Park is proving to be very popular with local residents. The large park has giant ponds which have a walking/running/ cycling track around them. There are loads of kiddie play areas plus areas for relaxing and simply enjoying the outdoors. That’s not all! There are also tennis courts, volleyball courts, football pitches, basketball courts and fitness machines!

areas for the kids and ample seating in the shade for the grown-ups. Wednesdays and Saturdays are for ladies and children only. Dubai Creek Park Dubai Creek Park is in the heart of the old city on the shores of Dubai Creek. It is one of the oldest parks in Dubai but it is still

Al Rashidiya Park This small family park is close to Dubai International Airport, next to Rashidiya Metro Station on Dubai Airport Road. It is a nice, quiet park suitable for family outings. It offers well equipped playground 54 | MARCH Connector

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very popular. Open on the weekends and the evenings, this park has such an abundance of plants plus a few mazes, and a nature trail. Throughout the park, you will find barbeque areas, picnic areas, kiddie play areas, a little café and a paved border along the shore of the creek, which is ideal for roller-skating. This park also boasts the Children City Centre, a large stone Amphitheatre and Dubai Dolphinarium. That’s not all! Ride the cable car and the miniature train or rent bikes and take a cycle tour around the immense property. Mamzar Beach Park Mamzar Beach Park is one of Dubai’s best beach parks. It is absolutely massive! You can actually drive your car in. It has acres of open grassland and 5 beaches, as well as a

worth the trip! It is popular on the weekends and can be packed over holiday weekends. It will only cost you Dhs 5 per person if you walk in and Dhs 40 per car if you are driving in. The charge to use the pool is Dhs 10. You can also hire chalets for the day which is great if you are a large crowd. Mushrif Park Mushrif Park is just past Mirdiff on the Khawaneej Road and is well worth a visit. The park has acres of woodland. It was originally a Ghaf. It has a small zoo with goats and you can ride a camel or ponies. There are also train rides and a swimming pool. Don’t miss the ‘It’s A Small World’ replica house area, featuring mini houses from all around the world! Entry is only Dhs 5 per person or Dhs 30 per car. It is a great place for family picnics and leisurely strolls under the shady trees. There are barbeque areas too so grab your family and friends and make a day of it! Safa Park This park has three lakes, over 200 species of birds, and 16,924 different trees and bushes. Grassy lawns cover 80% of the park and there is a little forest and a hill to offer panoramic views. A waterfall flows out of the hill and into the largest lake which contains a fountain and touring boats. There are four entrances to the park, one from each road that borders it.

huge outdoor swimming pool. It is perfect for barbeques and picnics. It has great facilities including small cafés, small grocery stores, wash facilities, changing rooms, children’s play areas, bikes for hire and amazing views over the Sharjah Lagoons. A bit far out but it is www.connector.ae

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KIDS & education Safa Park 2 Not to be confused with Safa Park, number 2 is a much smaller and quieter little park. It’s in a quiet, residential area of Al Safa. It’s lovely and green with manicured gardens, benches, picnic tables, walking paths and great play areas for children. There’s ample parking. During the week, it’s only open to women and children, which makes it a favourite for mums and toddlers. Plus, it has miniature basketball, volleyball and football courts, and a small kiosk that sells light refreshments. Satwa Park If you don’t feel like trekking out too far then Satwa Park is ideal. It is an inner-city park that is situated behind Al Moosa Towers on Sheikh Zayed Road. The park has many green, shady areas with plenty of places to sit. It has playgrounds for kids, as well as football pitches, basketball courts, volleyball courts, and tennis courts. It also has a 6-metre wide rubber running/jogging track for the fitness fans. The track is slightly elevated so you can enjoy the view of the park while you jog around it. To top it off, it has a central plaza with a fountain that is surrounded by palm trees. Umm Suqeim Park Close to Jumeirah Beach Hotel, this quaint little park is a peaceful green space you will enjoy spending time in. Only women and children Brought to you in conjunction with Mini Exchange - the Middle-East’s online marketplace for kids’ fashion. Browse over 10,000 products from over 250 global brands! About 90% of the items are brand new with tags from the stores, starting from as low as Dhs 15. Plus, there is free shipping on orders over Dhs 250. Items are sourced from brands, retailers and parents across the region and listed on the site at massivelydiscounted prices. The site features thousands of new and like-new products across the whole range of kidswear. All items listed on the site have been 56 | MARCH Connector

are permitted during the week but men are permitted with their families at weekends. It is a great place for some peace and quiet, which offers a small beach, little café and play areas for children. It is the perfect place to get away for a few hours in the morning or afternoon. Za’abeel Park This is one of the largest parks in Dubai and is located in between Karama and the Za’abeel area. The park is cut in two by Sheikh Zayed Road but has road bridges to get to either side. Along with the StarGate children’s entertainment zone, it has wide open spaces, an adventure playground, kiddie play areas, a lake offering boat rides, sculptures, a large amphitheatre area, and covered areas for barbeques and picnics. through our rigorous inspection process, guaranteeing buyers that items purchased are nothing less than perfect. If you are a brand or retailer, Mini Exchange provides the perfect platform to sell any unwanted stock. If you are a parent and have new or like-new kids clothing, accessories, fancy dress outfits or school uniforms that your child no longer uses, or has grown out of, Mini Exchange gives you a platform to turn these items into cash. Email info@miniexchange.com or visit www.miniexchange.com or www.miniexchange.com/blog. www.connector.ae

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KIDS & education

ADHD AND YOUR FAMILY

Being told your child has ADHD can be devastating and not knowing how to deal with it or what treatment and support options are available magnifies the issue.

DHD affects not only the child but the whole family. The demands of a child with ADHD can be exhausting, mentally and physically. Emotions such as guilt, anger, shame, anxiousness and vulnerability break through the most resistant armour, as parents try to understand their child’s behaviour. The child with ADHD will also need emotional and social support. Because they can be “challenging” to both adults and other children, their self-esteem may be affected and children with ADHD may lack positive experiences with accomplishment and friendships. Research shows that 50-80% of teens with ADHD have significant interpersonal difficulties, impacting relationships with parents, teachers and friends. As parents, we want the best for our kids - a large social circle of friends, success in school and life-long happiness. So 58 | MARCH Connector

when an ADHD diagnosis becomes our reality, we are willing to pull out all stops for our kids to live as normal as possible with all the support ever invented. In fact, we often want to live our children’s lives for them; to shield them from the pain and challenges we believe are coming their way. Sadly, we often forget about taking care of ourselves in the process. If we don’t stay healthy and positive we cannot help our children. Fortunately, today, there are many alternative and unconventional methods available for managing ADHD symptoms. The information age, online forums and support groups have enabled parents to educate themselves about how best to manage and successfully parent their child. You have choices. Music and art therapy, mindfulness programmes, outdoor activities involving sports and life-skills. Equine guided activities are another choice. The exercises are designed as building blocks to open new neural pathways in our mind and our body by stretching our ability to feel the presence and intention of others through using our entire bodies as a sensory device. Children with ADHD generally have issues with executive function, the ability to think and plan ahead, to organise, focus and complete tasks. Horses are excellent communicators and teachers and respond to a person’s intentions, emotions and thoughts that are conveyed subconsciously through body language. Working with horses can help the ADHD child with planning, increased focus and staying on a task, improved self-confidence (working with a 1200 pound animal can be intimidating), controlling anger and other emotional reactions and improved relationship building. All of the activities with the horses take place on the ground (no riding) in a safe environment designed specifically to help children and their parents reduce stress, improve their relationships, focus and peace of mind! With thanks to Pia Ault, ICF Certified Coach (ACC), Caballus Consulting. Call 055-6637302 or visit www.caballusconsulting.com. www.connector.ae

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KIDS & education

ASK THE EXPERT: “Is it ever too early to learn languages?”

TEACHER OF THE MONTH Name: Chiara Gilpin Nationality: Italian

It is never too early to learn languages, especially because when children are young, they soak knowledge up like a sponge. Children learn so many skills in the first four years of their life, including eating, communication, and walking, therefore communicating in another language comes just as naturally. As we get older, we develop more anxiety and greater self-awareness, becoming afraid of trying new things. It is a child’s lack of self-criticism and ability to soak up new knowledge that makes them better at acquiring second languages than adults. But the first 2,000 days of a child’s life are crucial because what he or she learns during this golden period often sets the foundation for success in school and beyond. Children learn the most in their first 2,000 days than any other sixyear period in their life. The bilingual brain shows more flexibility and a higher level of cognitive and executive function because they have to switch back and forth between two languages. Children who learn to speak multiple languages at once sound like a native in both tongues. Furthermore, they learn to talk at the same speed as kids who learn only a single language. At a young age, they can master multiple languages, allowing them to think and talk in each language versus constantly translating back and forth between languages in their heads. Bilingual children are also more creative in solving problems. Learning a foreign language helps you frame your thoughts through another culture and understand other people better. Swiss International Scientific School in Dubai looks forward to introducing kindergarten students to French, German and Arabic.

How long have you been teaching? Since 2011. How would you describe your teaching style? Definitely fun, creative and engaging. When learning a language children need to be inspired and teaching with enthusiasm is so important. Why did you decide to become a teacher? Although I am Italian I believe I am Chinese at heart. Being Italian, I had to learn both English and Chinese. I wanted to share my love of languages with children as it’s so much easier to learn as a child. Describe your best moment as a teacher. Watching children as young as three sing in Chinese and learn to write their names in Chinese. As well as seeing my older students be able to converse and debate using Chinese Language, when three months earlier they couldn’t speak it at all. What would be your one sentence of advice to parents? They grow up so quickly, make every day special. What would you say to someone wanting to enter the profession? Teaching is a wonderful profession, you get something back every day from the children you teach. You get to go home knowing you made a difference. What would be your life quote? Treat others as you would wish to be treated. A funny story from the classroom. With Chinese there has to be a loss in translation as many of our words sound very similar. For example mum and horse are often mixed up. So one day one of my students asked to be excused early as his horse was picking him up! Best quote/question/expression from a child. “I want to be a Chinese Dragon!”

Beat Sommer is Head of School at Swiss International Scientific School. Visit www.sisd.ae, call 04-375 0600 or email info@sisd.ae.

Chiara Gilpin is a Chinese Teacher at Nord Anglia International School Dubai. Visit www.nainternationalschool.ae.

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KIDS & education

TECHNOLOGY FOR LEARNING As digital technologies are increasingly transforming the way we work, live, learn and play, technology for learning is becoming an important driving force behind school improvement and schools.

n an age where, statistically, there are three computing devices for every person, the use of digital technologies in the classroom enhances traditional teaching methods, inspires students to create and collaborate and help them achieve more than they did in the past. Douglas Adams, author of The Hitchhikerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide to the Galaxy, came up with a set of rules that describe our reactions to technologies: 62 | MARCH Connector

1. Anything that is in the world when you are born is normal and ordinary and is just a natural part of the way the world works. 2. Anything that is invented between when you are 15 and 35 is new and exciting and revolutionary and you can probably get a career in it. 3. Anything invented after you are 35 is against the natural order of things. Douglas Adams was right. Today, young adults at university have never experienced life without the presence of the World Wide Web, secondary school students without the presence of google, primary school children without an i-device, and foundation children without an iPad or tablet. This generation, www.connector.ae

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KIDS & education

unlike those who have come before, are digitally native. It is odd to think back to the days where pioneering schools like Cedars School of Excellence in Scotland, who are widely known as the first 1:1 iPad school in the world, were taking the heat for doing what is now an accepted (if not yet widely-implemented) part of the educational technology stack. “They said children couldn’t multi-task on iPads. Wrong. They said children couldn’t type on iPads. Wrong. They said children would break their iPads. Wrong. They said children would lose their iPads. Wrong. They said Android tablets would be better and cheaper within a year. Wrong. What the over-35s meant was that they couldn’t multi-task, type on or handle their iPad without breaking it.” - Fraser Speirs, Cedars School of Excellence. Social media, online games, multimedia, cloud computing, and mobile learning have become a pervasive and necessary part of everyday life. More so than ever before, we are connected to the rest of the world as global citizens, and 64 | MARCH Connector

whilst this provides great power, connectivity and opportunities for communication, it also comes with great responsibility. Whether it is connecting with new people via social media or discovering local resources recommended by an app, mobile devices provide people with constant opportunities to act upon their curiosities and expand their knowledge. The portability, flexibility, and natural intuitive interfaces enable students to develop their 21st century skills, such as collaboration, innovation and communication. Digital technology, mobile devices and tablets provide the opportunity for traditional teaching methods to be enriched, to inspire pupils and enable creativity in the classroom to be taken to a whole new level. Technology has the power to transform the classroom. It sparks and inspires new ways of thinking and helps to redefine what it means to teach and learn. Recognising the ever-increasing importance of digital technology in the lives of pupils worldwide, education systems which support technology for learning, aspire to provide pupils with every advantage in preparation for their next stage of learning and the life that lies ahead of them. As an important part of this process, schools must recognise that effective deployment of digital technology is not simply a case of the installation of hardware and putting devices into the hands of pupils and staff. Schools must be committed to providing teachers with ample opportunity to take part in professional development to further their skills, collaborate and discuss new apps and technologies on the market, to create a learning environment which enhances and transforms learning in the classrooms. These schools are helping to redefine what forwarding thinking school provision looks like, as we seek to equip children with the skills required to grow from the learners of today to the leaders of tomorrow. With thanks to Melissa McBride, Head of Primary at Hartland International School. Visit www.hartlandinternational.com. www.connector.ae

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KIDS & education

Dental DILEMMAS Visiting the dentist can be a nerve wracking experience. Going to a strange new place and having to sit still in a chair while a person you do not know feels around in your mouth with metallic objects, along with strange smells and the sound of the drill can be unsettling for children. If your child shows signs of being upset at the thought of going to the dentist, try the following tips to put their minds at ease.

xplain the importance of excellent oral care at a young age. Educating your child on the importance of brushing and flossing their teeth after every meal, as well as using mouthwash, is a must to maintain their understanding of good oral care. Once this is established, discuss what a dental office is for and why everyone needs to go there for a checkup. You do not have to go into great detail, in fact the less you explain the better. If you start talking about all the tools used, or what a cavity is, a child could become afraid. Instead, just focus on having as many positive answers as possible. Avoid saying things like “it’s not going to hurt,” or “everything’s going to be okay”. It will calm your child if you say something like “If the dentist finds any sugar bugs (cavities), they can get them out so they stop hiding in your teeth”. Also try not to use words like ‘shot’, ‘drill’, or ‘pain’. You should also begin dental visits with your child as early as possible. It is recommended that all children have their first dental visit by the time their first tooth erupts or by their first birthday. The sooner your child experiences a dental office and meets your family dentist, the more comfortable they will be at future visits. Many children who are initially taken at a later age are more uncooperative at their visits. A child’s first dental visit does not take long. At the appointment, your child will get to meet the paediatric dentist. It is not 66 | MARCH Connector

necessary to perform a dental clean, but instead the dentist may just try counting the child’s teeth out loud and let them have a ride in the dental chair. The more your child goes in for appointments, the more comfortable they are in the dental office. It is not only a great way to make them happier at future visits, but starting this young helps prevent build up and decay. Paediatric dentists know many techniques for calming a nervous child, one of them is praise. Whenever a child does something right, the dentist will praise the child and so will his staff. Praise is one simple method for making a child feel more relaxed in any environment. Another technique is called the Tell-Show-Do technique. The dentist will show the child an instrument and explain what the instrument is used for. He may even let the child hold the instrument and examine it. If you are taking your child to the dentist for their first dental appointment, it is highly recommended that you stay with the child throughout the appointment. For very young children, it is recommended that you stay with the child regardless if it is his or her first visit. For older children, it is believed that the dentist-child communication works much better if the parent stays in the reception area during the child’s appointment. With thanks to Dr Gallia Balish, Specialist Paediatric Dentist. www.connector.ae

“Mathnasium” with the words “The Math Learning Center.” The words “The Math Learning Center” are a part of the logo. The logo should not appear without them except in approved situations. The Mathnasium logo must be used on all marketing materials. It may be displayed in four ways, as shown below: Option one: the Mathnasium logo, black with red, on a white background.

Option two: the Mathnasium logo, white with red, on a black background.

At Mathnasium, we believe that number sense does not develop by accident. It is the result of a process of encounter and interaction with a specific set of concepts and skills presented in a Option three: themakes Mathnasium logo, blackWe with gray, on a white background. way that sense to the learner. help kids reach their potential in math, kids leap way ahead -- whether they started out Enroll Enroll far behind or are already ahead in math. At Mathnasium,

NOW!

Enroll NOW!

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N OW! Option four: the Mathnasium logo, white with gray, onENnrOaWblack background. ! circle

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DUBAI: • Al Barsha (04 395 8911) • Jumeirah (04 344 1040) • Knowledge Village (04 421 6939) • Motor City (04 454 2707) • Uptown Mirdif (04 236 3668) ABU DHABI: Khalifa City A (02 555 8785) SHARJAH: Al Fardan Centre (06 556 1030)

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KIDS & education

Nurseries ROUNDUP Children’s Oasis Nursery

Children’s Oasis Nursery is a leading nursery in Dubai with over 30 years’ experience. The nursery follows the EYFS and offers Day Care from 2 months to 4 years. Both locations have amazing facilities and large beautifully designed outdoor spaces which ensure endless hours of exploring for your little ones. The team of dedicated professionals gently guide children as individuals, ensuring they maximise their full potential within the seven areas of learning. The nursery also offers a flexible Spanish speaking programme. Each location has two licensed nurses. They are the first nursery in the Middle East to be ISO certified. For more details call Children’s Oasis Nursery (Umm Sequim) on 04-3488981 or Children’s Oasis Nursery (Burj) on 04-3790790.

GEMS Nurseries

Little GEMS International pre-schools cater for children from 1 to 4 years and their approach is based upon four pillars: quality care, quality education, quality staff and partnership with parents and the community. They blend the English Foundation Stage Curriculum with unique, specially written Little GEMS International programmes designed to enable children to flourish academically, personally, socially and emotionally. Little GEMS International children are given priority admission into the award winning GEMS schools. Choosing a Little GEMS International means that, as well as being safe and happy, your child will have a head start to his or her education and life. Call Little GEMS International, Barsha on 04-3995244 or visit www.lgipreschoolbarsha.com; Little GEMS International, Safa on 04-3855355 or visit www.lgipreschool-safa.com or Little Learners Nursery Dubai on 04-3486260 or visit www.littlelearners-dubai.com.

Milestones Nursery

Milestones Nursery is a state of art nursery providing a tailor-made American curriculum 68 | MARCH Connector

“HighScope”. Providing excellent care and education to children aged from 4 months to 4 years old, Milestones Nursery recognises that every child is unique and has their own style of learning. Activities are planned to meet the children’s interests, developmental stages and channel their abilities. Milestones Nursery aim to provide varied learning opportunities for children to achieve, and learn through play. They encourage children to help others and become thoughtful in relation to their peers. Visit the E-Library, where technology incorporates with the 21st century education. Milestones Nursery is offering all readers of Connector, free registration worth Dhs 1,000 for the month of March 2015. Located in Al Safa 2, Jumeirah. Call 04-3373374, 055-2724848, email info@milestones-nursery.com or visit www.milestones-nursery.com.

The Children’s Garden

Taaleem’s The Children’s Garden (TCG) was launched in Dubai in 2005, offering a bespoke multi-lingual, international Early Childhood programme for children from 2 to 6 years old. Its unique emphasis on languages and creative arts instills confidence, imagination and problem solving skills in each child. Bright and airy classrooms are complimented by Math Gardens to Reading Majlis, Playgrounds, Music/ Movement Rooms, Sand Pits, Art Studios, Water Parks, Sensory Room, Swimming Pool, Multipurpose Areas, and Auditoria. The Children’s Garden can be found in Jumeirah 2, Al Barsha 2 and the Green Community in DIP. Graduates from The Children’s Garden are guaranteed a place in a Taaleem school. Visit www.childrensgarden.ae. www.connector.ae

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Kids’ NEWS Peace of mind

Most parents are not aware that clinical research shows that the definition of fever changes with a child’s age. So what is an acceptable temperature for a four year old can be classed as a high fever in a new-born. That is why Braun has developed the new Age Precision technology in its latest ear thermometer. It is designed to take the guess work out of monitoring your child’s temperature. Braun Thermoscan 7 is available across the UAE at all leading pharmacies, hypermarkets, supermarkets and some popular online stores specialising in children’s products.

Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2015

Students of all ages from around the UAE will have the unique opportunity to interact with their favourite authors at the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2015. A host of exciting and varied events are planned at the Festival this year, including talks, workshops, author visits to schools and free events. The Festival’s Education Days have been immensely popular and the number of students reached has expanded exponentially since 2009. This year will see authors Hooda Shawa Qaddumi, Philip Ardagh, Lauren Oliver, Imtiaz Dharker, John Dougherty, David Tazzyman, Steve Cole and Kaltham Al Ghanim hold exclusive free sessions for students during the Education Days at the InterContinental Hotel and other locations around Dubai. Additionally, visiting authors will be meeting students in nearly 100 schools around the country. Visit www.emirateslitfest.com.

Providing support

Kalimati Speech and Rehabilitation Center started as Kalimati Speech and Communication Center in 2010. It was set up by Bedour Saeed Al Raqbani, whose daughter was diagnosed with profound hearing loss. Since 2010 Kalimati has grown and progressed to provide a variety of services that include speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, learning support tuition, sign language classes, school and nursery support and workshops. They also have the added benefit of being able to provide speech therapy sessions in Arabic, French and English. Visit www.kalimati.org. 70 | MARCH Connector

www.connector.ae

The First ISO Certified Nursery in the Middle East

Two locations in Umm Suqeim, Dubai

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Oasis Nurseries Umm Suqeim Branch: +971 4 348 8981 Burj Branch: +971 4 379 0790

* Excellent qualified staff to student ratio * Spanish, Arabic, Music, Football & Movement activities offered at no additional cost * Age appropriate equipment furniture and in each classroom * Magical outdoor spaces

* Stimulating environment * Activities to suit your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs * Timings completely flexible * Sunday - Thursday * 7:30am - 5:00pm * 2 months - 4 years

Email: caitriona@childrensoasisnursery.com Website: www.childrensoasisnursery.com

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ANIMAL magic

Help your

COMMUNITY CATS

Did you know that an un-spayed female and her offspring can produce over 300,000 kittens over a period of seven years?

he Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) programme is the most humane and effective approach for dealing with stray and feral cats. Under this programme stray cats are trapped in cages and taken to a veterinary clinic where they are checked for communicable diseases, vaccinated and spayed. The cats do not suffer any trauma and can be released pain free the same day back to their environment. Have you seen cats with ears like this? This cat’s ear has been surgically alternated to show that the cat has been spayed/neutered. 72 | MARCH Connector

Why is TNR important for a community? Cats will live a healthier and happier life, and your neighbourhood will be cleaner and more peaceful. Being pregnant so young and so often, and nursing kittens, is stressful on female cats who are struggling to survive. Half the kittens are likely to die without human intervention. Less fighting, less noise • The cessation of sexual activity eliminates the noise associated with mating behaviour and dramatically reduces fighting. Less cats, less sick cats • The TNR programme can help to stabilise feral cat populations by instantly ending reproduction and by removing sick cats from the colony. Less roaming • Neutered feral cats roam less and become less visible in the community. Less odours • Odours are greatly reduced because neutered male cats no longer produce testosterone which, when they are unaltered, mixes with their urine and causes the strong, pungent smell when they spray. Why does trap and relocate not work? Removing cats from an area only allows another colony to move into its place in order to take advantage of the food source. The TNR option allows you to stabilise one area at a time. Once the cat population of a colony is stabilised, the colony will defend its territory and keep other cats from moving in. If you would like to trap and spay/neuter a cat in your neighbourhood call Advanced Pet Care Clinic, an experienced provider of the TNR programme in Dubai. Call 04-3212535. www.connector.ae

Spaying and neutering your cat will allow him to have a happier and healthier life. make an appointment and

save 20%

FOR MORE INFO ABOUT TNR PLEASE CALL OUR CLINIC

APCC offers advanced veterinarian care and facilities with highly experienced medical staff and surgeons. Facility with the best available veterinarian equipment and technology to ensure we are able to deliver the highest quality of care.

Tel: 04 321 25 35 - www.apcc.ae - Al Wasl Rd., Villa No.754a www.connector.ae

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ANIMAL magic

Meet Cinderella

Cinderella is 18 months old, and was rescued in Sharjah dirty, skinny and with no microchip. After a session at the groomers and some TLC she soon turned into a fluffy white ball of cuteness. Cinderella is a bit of a Princess, not impressed with meeting new people at first, she prefers to take her time getting comfortable with you but then turns into a lovely chilled cat. She is the perfect apartment cat for someone prepared to adore her and spoil her! To meet Cinderella email info@38smiles.com.

Meet Timothy

This young fella was found with jaundice on the streets of Garhoud. Lucky for him 38smiles picked him up or eventually his kidneys would have shut down and he would have died. After a few weeks at the vetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Timothy is good as new. Having used up one of his nine lives, Timothy is ready for a new beginning and oh boy he really knows how to live life to the fullest! He eats like a monster and runs around like a crazy monkey until he collapses on the sofa next to you for a power nap! A larger-than-life personality describes Timothy best. To meet Timothy email info@38smiles.com. 74 | MARCH Connector

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BEAUTY & bodycare

Bobbi Brown’s Illuminating Nudes Collection features five must-have products to create an effortlessly pulled together look. Each product is easy to use, delivers clean wearable colour and is designed to lift and illuminate the complexion for flawless, healthy skin.

Give your mum a Forever treat from Bath & Body Works this Mother’s Day that she will not forget!

The Drops of Youth Bouncy Sleeping Mask is the latest addition to The Body Shop’s best-selling youth-enhancing range.

Editor’s

Paradiso, the new uplifting fragrance from Roberto Cavalli.

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An essential part of your sports kit, the Konjac Travel and Sports Sponge provides a deep, soothing, and gently refreshing cleanse after your workout. Your skin will be cleansed and massaged while stimulating the blood flow and sore and achy muscles will be revived and left smooth and supple - just what you need!

Rock and feminine, Couture Palette Collector from YSL is a harmony of five eye shadows. A deep matt black empowered by pink sparkles, a rich camel beige and a seductive golden brown, two deep and warm colours that are clashed by the luminosity of an intense pink and an iridescent champagne.

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Figs & Rouge balm is not just another lip balm; this non-greasy, petroleum-free balm can be used as a solution to a number of beauty dilemmas. Figs & Rouge Face, Lip and Body Balms are made in the UK and are 100% natural and cruelty-free, each sealed in the prettiest, vintage inspired tins. So pretty in fact that every lady should keep one of these multipurpose balms in her handbag!

Unlock supple, fluid, perfectly smooth hair, whatever your hair type - without any harsh chemicals, and with no damage with the Kérastase Discipline.

PICKS This Mother’s Day, treat your yummy mummy to some yummy hair with label.m Therapy Agedefying Shampoo and Conditioner. With advanced ingredients designed to reverse visible signs of ageing, the products leave hair looking strong, radiant and youthful. www.connector.ae

Make Up Forever’s new Step 1 Equalizer balances out any skin tone to provide the perfect texture, making your skin smoother, more supple and glowing.

Show that it’s all thanks to her with a thoughtful gift from Jo Malone this Mother’s Day. An elegant Cologne, a candle in her favourite scent, indulgent Bath Oil or Body Crème. Always elegant. Always appreciated.

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BEAUTY & bodycare

This monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

special offers Reflection Hair and Beauty Salon

Enjoy the only in-salon service that can instantly repair and prevent split ends. Enjoy a complimentary Brazilian Blowout Split Ends Treatment when you book either a full head or part head highlights with cut and blow dry. Whether you want a whole new look or just a slight update, get a head start with the latest colour and cut trends. Get a 20% discount on a cut and blow dry when you book any colour service with Emilia. Polish acne marks and pigmentation away with Microdermabrasion, a non-invasive skin rejuvenation treatment which can help unveil the brilliance of your skin. And enjoy the special price of Dhs 260 on this treatment; or just add Dhs 130 to top the Microdermabrasion up with a facial. Call 04-3944595/ 04-3949906 or visit www.reflectionhairandbeautycentre.com for appointments.

Sofitel the Palm Dubai

This March, So Spa allows you to mix and match for a refined personalised session. Choose from their 20-minute treatments that include back massage, head massage, foot massage, arm massage, body scrub and express facial, priced at Dhs 550 for 60 minutes. Call 04-4556677.

The Address Dubai Mall

The Spa offers the Themae Slimming Ritual offering measurable inch loss in just a few sessions and priced at Dhs 520 per session. Book the slimming package consisting of five sessions for Dhs 2,600 and get one free. Alternatively, the 90-minute Rejuvenating Body Cleanse is priced at Dhs 699. For appointment call 04-4388025 or email spa.dubaimall@theaddress.com.

Jazz Lounge Spa

Conveniently located on Umm Suqeim Road, Al Barsha, Jazz Lounge Spa is a brand new gents grooming complex which promises affordable services in a relaxed and friendly environment. With both female and male technicians on-hand, Jazz Lounge Spa boasts an extensive treatment menu offering everything from nail care to facials, massages, Moroccan baths, Turkish baths and hair services. Take advantage of the salonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s introductory offer throughout March and be pampered like a rock star with the Unplugged Performance Package, which includes a 45-minute Moroccan or Turkish bath followed by a 45-minute full body massage for Dhs 320. For bookings call 04-3957338 or visit www.jazzloungespa.com for further information.

Hyatt Regency Dubai

Club Olympus Spa & Fitness at Hyatt Regency Dubai presents its signature June Jacobs facial this March. This 90-minute treatment is priced at Dhs 900 and you can enjoy a free 30-minute back, neck and shoulder massage and Dhs 300 worth of products from June Jacobs. Call 04-2096802. 78 | MARCH Connector

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PERFECT GIFTS OUR MOST PRESTIGIOUS FRAGRANCES!

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Beauty honey jar! in your

hroughout the centuries, legendary beauties have used honey as part of their skin and hair care treatments. Cleopatra was famous for her milk and honey baths, and Poppea, wife of Roman Emperor Nero, used a honey and milk lotion on her face to keep her looking youthful. By the time cosmetics were beginning to be mass produced in the late 1800s, honey was a popular ingredient. Today, manufacturers are increasingly using honey in skin moisturisers, facial masks, hair conditioners and shower gels in response to consumer demand for more natural formulations. Here are three pure and natural recipes for implementing honey in your beauty routine.

Yoghurt and honey facial mask

Mix a couple of tablespoons of plain natural yoghurt with one tablespoon of honey and if you wish, throw in a couple of mashed grapes for a boost of antioxidants. The yoghurt and honey mix will help cleanse and moisturise your skin while the crushed grapes provide the antioxidants that help rejuvenate the skin, making it look radiant.

Egg and honey facial recipe

Honey is definitely beneficial for your skin as it helps moisturise the complexion leaving it looking and feeling soft and radiant. Mix a couple of tablespoons of honey with an egg yolk and a few drops of almond oil or olive oil and apply the mixture to your face and leave on for 15 minutes. Gently massage the mask in and rinse with warm water.

Sugar and honey scrub

For an exfoliator that can be used for both face and body, combine about six tablespoons of honey with two tablespoons of granulated white sugar and a few drops of coconut or olive oil. Rub in gently with your fingetips, using circular motions and rinse with warm water. 80 | MARCH Connector

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HEALTH & fitness

Proverbs to live by If there is one thing that can be said about proverbs - it is that they are usually right. So what do these wonderful maxims have to say about health and wellbeing? Alex Gazzola investigates some wise words from around the world.

‘A

n apple a day, keeps the doctor away’ - perhaps the best-known health proverb in modern English. And while current nutritional advice advocates we aim for at least five pieces of fruit and veg instead of just one, the essence of the familiar saying remains perfectly valid - it is as sensible today as it always has been. Indeed, the joy of health proverbs is that they are all built on a foundation of sound wisdom and fundamental truths passed down from generation to generation - neatly delivered in a memorable catchphrase. And while some are just modest and sensible life principles, others have inspired much more than healthy 82 | MARCH Connector

day-to-day living. For instance, the ancient Latin proverb ‘similia similibus curantur’, adopted by the English as ‘similar cures similar’, or more familiarly ‘like cures like’, was to eventually become the central tenet in homeopathic thinking. But what about other proverbs from around the world? Are they also worthy maxims for the modern woman? Here we look at some you should aim to live by.

“When the sun rises, work; when the sun sets, stop”

(Taiwanese proverb) Kundalini Yoga Teacher Carolyn Cowan lives by this proverb, and she believes it has transformed her life. ‘I get up at around 4 www.connector.ae

or 5am every day, do yoga, meditate, and then begin work,’ she says. ‘There’s a very still energy in the early ambrosial hours, and when the sun’s rays start striking the planet it gives you an extraordinary feeling.’ At 5pm, she winds down, and aims to be in bed by 8.30pm. ‘My philosophy is all about living in a more natural state, enabling your body to fall into its own rhythm,’ Carolyn adds. ‘And the bonus of eating before the sun sets is that it improves your digestion. When it’s dark, your body yearns to shut down for the day.’

“When the heart is at ease, the body is healthy” (Chinese proverb)

Four times as many women die of heart disease than of breast cancer. Where Kylie Minogue has further reminded women of a disease of which they are already fairly well aware, the dangers of heart disease, without a recent high-profile celebrity case to alert us, often go forgotten. It is a good idea to undertake regular blood pressure and cholesterol testing, stop smoking, moderate your saturated fat intake, and increase your fruit and vegetables. Exercise, too, is key. ‘Because the heart is a muscle - one which ‘feeds’ the body nourishing blood - exercise makes it stronger,’ explains cardiac nurse Ellen Mason. ‘This in turn reduces high blood pressure and cholesterol, prevents and manages diabetes and obesity, and also fights depression and anxiety.’

“Garlic is as good as ten mothers” (Telegu Indian proverb)

A magical, loving proverb, born from the abundance of benefits this vegetable is known to offer. Among these are that it is a powerful antiseptic. Its rich antioxidants are thought to have healing benefits on the intestine, and it is effective in lowering cholesterol. Others claim it can help fight influenza, parasites and even infertility. Nutritionist Robert Clark is a garlic fan, believing it an effective prebiotic, feeding healthy gut bacteria and fighting unhealthy populations. ‘It’s best eaten raw,’ he says. www.connector.ae

‘Try a salad of sliced tomatoes, sprinkled with a thinly sliced clove of garlic, lots of fresh basil and olive oil. The flavours will combine and the garlic won’t taste so strong.’

“Cheerfulness is the very flower of health” (Japanese proverb) We have long known that the Japanese are a happy, contented people, and this charming saying may be the reason why. If you are feeling down, though, remember you have the power to act. ‘Cheerfulness is a choice,’ asserts happiness guru and success coach Ben Renshaw. ‘When you wake up, make the immediate decision to be happy.’ Positive feelings, according to Renshaw, help the body to release feel-good endorphins into the bloodstream. These in turn boost the immune system. ‘You can literally choose happiness, choose to boost your immune system, and therefore choose to be healthier,’ he says.

“Limit your desires and you will improve your health”

(Spanish proverb) We live in an I-want-it-all culture, one based on coveting the celebrity lifestyle. Life coach Martin Perry urges us to stop buying celebrity magazines and to reject the obsessive culture altogether. ‘What’s the worst that can happen?’ he asks. ‘It is hugely stressful to put yourself through the pressure of wanting to look like a celebrity. Let go of that stress. Many Hollywood stars put themselves on unhealthy fad diets to achieve their looks. They are paying with their health.’

“Hygiene is two-thirds health”

(Lebanese proverb) We may think of washing as nothing more than an excuse to pamper, but personal hygiene runs much deeper than mere psychology. ‘The skin is an intricate organ of excretion and protection,’ says dermatologist Sally Penford. ‘Every day it eliminates the body of toxins, salts and oils. Add to that dead skin cells and external Connector MARCH | 83

HEALTH & fitness

pollutants, and the skin’s surface becomes clogged with unwanted debris which must be gently removed to keep you in better health.’ Sally says it is important to maintain the protective barrier of the skin to guard against moisture loss and bacterial attack. ‘Avoid soap because it is alkaline and acts in opposition to your skin’s natural acidity,’ she adds. ‘Use an acid-balanced cleanser - a creamier one for dry skin, and a clay-based cleanser for oily skin. Follow with a skin protectant moisturiser to protect your skin from external pollution.’

“Eat well, drink in moderation, sleep sound - in these three, good health abound” (Latin proverb) ‘This proverb sits well with my philosophy,’ says health, weight and fitness coach Emma Hetherington. ‘Healthy eating and drinking within recommended guidelines is very much a part of an ideal lifestyle. Sleep is important to reduce stress, and if you are less stressed you are less likely to comfort eat. People look for magic formulae in life, but ultimately it is down to the healthy attitude which this proverb encapsulates. It’s great!’

“There are more old wine drinkers, than there are old doctors” (German proverb)

Nutrition researcher Professor Roger Corder, author of The Wine Diet, agrees that red wine can help you live a healthier, longer life - largely thanks to chemicals 84 | MARCH Connector

called procyanidins, which are found in red wine. ‘Procyanidins promote healthy blood vessel function - essential in keeping all the organs working optimally,’ says Corder. ‘This raises the possibility that it can protect against not only heart disease and strokes, but also diabetes, dementia and even forms of cancer.’ It is worth noting that the areas of the world with the largest proportion of centenarians - parts of southern France, Sardinia in Italy, and Crete in Greece - have local wines with the highest procyanidin content of all. Look for tannic, complex red wines, and remember to indulge in modest quantities only.

Future Proverbs? As wonderful as traditional proverbs are, as a collection they can not reflect the whole spectrum of sound health principles and medical advice needed in a 21st century world cursed with new diseases, junk food, toxic drugs, chemicals and pollution. To counteract this increasing shortfall, in 2004 Bernard Choi, a public health professor at the University of Toronto, Canada, published a paper calling for new proverbs to be incorporated into our consciousness and inspire a new generation of healthy young people. Among his suggestions were: • Seven days without exercise makes one weak; • The more you smoke, the more you croak; • A tri-colour meal is a good deal. Let’s hope they catch on! www.connector.ae

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HEALTH & fitness

THREE

1. Talk back to your negative thoughts

Thoughts have energy that is why it is very important to pay attention to the nature of your thoughts. Negative thoughts are called “automatic thoughts” because one single thought can automatically trigger other negative ones in a matter of seconds. How do you know that you’re having negative thoughts? How do you feel? Whenever you feel down, stop and rewind your thoughts. They will definitely be negative. It is very important to acknowledge each negative thought and talk back to it. For instance, you are stuck in traffic. You start moaning about your luck and how unlucky you are. Talk back: I am not always unlucky. There are many occasions where I have been lucky (count all incidents no matter how trivial or far long back they go). Most likely you will start to feel better to the extent that you have actually forgotten about the traffic jam.

2. Practice gratitude

The next time you are about to complain about your health, do yourself a favour and 86 | MARCH Connector

steps to attract health

thank God instead. No matter how severe your condition is, you are probably better off than many others. Make gratitude a daily habit. Have a ‘gratitude slot’ each morning and evening and if you can keep a journal. Count your blessings no matter how trivial they might seem to you including the fact that you are still alive. Gradually, your gratitude habit will get better and better and so will your health.

3. Force yourself to forgive

The inability to forgive is probably the main reason why people do not heal. You might have every reason to be angry but holding on to anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die as Buddha says. So do yourself and your health a big favour and force yourself to forgive. It is not going to be easy but it is doable; in fact, it is a must if you are serious about your health and wellbeing. Each person has their own way to forgive and let go but I personally find these tools incredibly powerful: prayer, meditation and Reiki. With thanks to Thiba Sharaf, a Dubai-based Reiki Master Teacher. Visit www.reikitouchdubai.com. www.connector.ae

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HEALTH & fitness

Trying to lose weight?

Sleep on it!

Tired of fad diets and exercise? Relax; the latest way to keep your weight under control is to sleep it off.

r Gad Asher, clinician and medical researcher from the Department of Biological Chemistry at Weizmann Institute of Science, presented research to a Melbourne seminar on obesity that found every cell in the body has a circadian clock. His research into the circadian clock (that regulates our sleep-wake cycle), shows that disruptions to the clock may be linked to metabolic disorders such as obesity and type-2 diabetes. Researchers state that sleeping for eight hours a night and eating during daylight hours could be as important in controlling your weight gain as diet and exercise are. In particular, Dr Asher’s research team discovered that a protein related to ageing and metabolism, called SIRT1, is the missing link between the circadian clocks and metabolism and could be a factor in metabolic disorders. 88 | MARCH Connector

This ties with research that shows shift workers who eat late at night and sleep during the day are more disposed to obesity. With further research, it is possible the SIRT1 protein could become a target for medicines that might improve the efficiency of the body’s metabolism hopefully enabling humans to burn more fat, Dr Asher said. In the meantime, he warned those watching their weight that, “If you don’t eat according to the circadian clock, it can lead to obesity. It is important to eat during the day and not during the night to maximise the metabolic response to food and keep weight under control”. Shantha Rajaratnam from Australia’s Monash University’s School of Psychology and Psychiatry wants to test Dr Asher’s theories on humans in his sleep laboratory. Dr Rajaratbam studies the sleep patterns of shift-workers and how the circadian clock affects their daytime performance. www.connector.ae

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HEALTH & fitness

SNACK 1 Ingredients

30g Special K 125ml semi-skimmed milk half a banana

Total Serving

Snack

ATTACK Busy lives mean hectic schedules and, for many of us, lunchtime is the only time to sneak in a workout.

f this is your main exercise slot be sure to start the day with a filling breakfast (something like poached egg on grainy toast with some fruit would be ideal), and then follow up mid-morning with a targeted pre-workout snack. If you eat a little something before you hit the gym or pound the streets, you will have more energy and you will boost your calorie-burning power. Eaten an hour or so before you work out, these snacks are just the right size to stop hunger pangs mid-exercise, and not so big that they will interfere with your weight-loss plans or make you feel nauseous. Eat your normal lunch when you get back and you will be getting the best possible results from your midday workout. 90 | MARCH Connector

Calorie counter: 221 calories Fat: 3g Why it’s so good: Special K is higher in protein and has a lower GI than many other cereals, which makes for a sustaining pre-workout snack. You will get plenty of iron and B vitamins too, so it is a particularly good choice if you are prone to anaemia. With semi-skimmed milk and half a banana this is an intelligent carb-boosting choice. Ditch the half banana (50 calories) for a more slim line choice.

SNACK 2 Ingredients:

Total Serving

½ bagel topped with a dessertspoon of peanut butter

Calorie counter: 167 calories Fat: 5.8g Why it’s so good: Fast-releasing carbs from the bagel teamed with high protein, monounsaturated-rich peanut butter makes the perfect medium-GI snack. It is also a good source of B vitamins, particularly niacin, which is important in the release of energy in cells.

SNACK 3 Ingredients: 3 Fig Rolls

Total Serving

Calorie counter: 189 calories Fat: 1.5g Why it’s so good: One of the quickest, easiest and most delicious ways to fuel up before exercise! Fig rolls are high in sugar but relatively higher in fibre than many biscuits, making for a slightly lower GI option. Good eaten half an hour to an hour before lunchtime run. www.connector.ae

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SNACK 4 Ingredients: 150g low-fat natural yogurts with a handful of berries and drizzle of honey

Total Serving

Calorie counter: 140 calories Fat: 1.5g Why it’s so good: Lactose (milk sugar) is released quite slowly and, along with its protein content, yoghurt makes a good choice if you are combining aerobic and resistance exercise. Plus, berries are packed with the antioxidants you need to mop up the extra free radicals produced during exercise.

SNACK 5 Ingredients:

250ml smoothie made with apple juice half a banana big handful of berries plus a tablespoon of wheatgerm mixed in

Total Serving

Calorie counter: 165 calories Fat: 1.5g Why it’s so good: This is a super-healthy pre-exercise snack that you can make in the morning and take to work. The high-in-goodfats wheatgerm slows down the delivery of sugars to your bloodstream, making it very sustaining. It is also a great source of the protective antioxidant vitamin E.

SNACK 6 Ingredients:

4 wholewheat crackers 80g tuna (in spring water)

Total Serving

Calorie counter: 171 calories Fat: 4.7g Why it’s so good: This snack is high in protein, making it a particularly good choice if you are weight training; however, it also contains sufficient carbohydrates for practically any half-hour-long athletic pursuit. Also a good choice if your breakfast was a pure carb one, with no protein. Protein is needed for the repair and renewal of tissues after you have exercised.

SNACK 7 Ingredients:

half a sandwich (made with wholegrain bread) reduced-fat hummus grated carrot

Total Serving

Calorie counter: 164 calories Fat: 6g Why it’s so good: If you are watching the calories particularly closely, eat half your sandwich before you exercise and the other half when you get back. Reduced-fat hummus and grated carrot makes a great sustaining mix to get you through your workout without hunger pangs. With thanks to Good Habits www.goodhabits.ae.

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Complimentary check up

d este T & d

Trie

Celergen

So, here we are again in the constant search for the proverbial “Fountain of Youth” or “Elixir of Life”. Don’t you wish you could just take a tablet? Well actually, you can! Researched and developed by prestigious Swiss, French and German anti-ageing experts, cell therapists, gerontologists, biotech chemists, scientists and pharmaceutical professionals Celergen is quite literally the Rolls Royce of supplements for your body. It is a multi-faceted cell therapy treatment system that aims to intercept and prevent, repair and maintain, rebuild and rehabilitate your body irrespective of your age. It has been clinically proven to be enormously effective in replenishing energy and stamina, boosting your overall vitality, improving your mood, preventing unhealthy fat storage in your body, while also rebuilding your skin from the inside helping to restore a firm youthful complexion.

What’s involved?

I simply took one tablet per day 20 minutes before breakfast.

What are the results?

I noticed a boost in my energy levels. I was sleeping better and bouncing out of bed - even at 5.30am for training. Old aches and pains from various sporting injuries were reduced. My mood improved, I was able to concentrate better and was less stressed. Plus my skin tone improved and I looked more refreshed. It wasn’t that I felt a dramatic change, it was a sense of wellbeing, calm and ease of doing physical or mental activities. All in all I can highly recommend Celergen to anyone looking to improve their health.

To celebrate their 4th anniversary, Panacea Medical & Wellness Centre is offering complimentary BMI, BP and Blood Sugar testing from 14th to 17th March. The centre is located near Maktoum Bridge in Umm Hurair. Call 04-3582020 for timings and directions or view www.panacea.ae.

Beach yoga

Begin your day with an enlightening yoga session on the South Lawn at The Beach, opposite JBR. The outdoor entertainment venue announces revised timings for ‘Yoga by the Sea’ with classes now running from 7am to 8am every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. Entry is free and light, non-restrictive conservative clothing is recommended. Take your personal yoga mat, towel and water. Register in advance at marketing@thebeach.ae.

How much?

A course (30 tablets) is priced at Dhs 1,300.

Visit www.celergenhealth.com for more information and orders. -L.C. 94 | MARCH Connector

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Your Horoscope

by Capella

PISCES 18 Feb - 19 Mar

VIRGO 23 Aug - 22 Sep

ARIES 20 Mar - 19 Apr

LIBRA 23 Sep - 22 Oct

TAURUS 20 Apr - 20 May

SCORPIO 23 Oct - 21 Nov

GEMINI 21 May - 20 Jun

SAGITTARIUS 22 Nov - 21 Dec

Venus, Mars and Uranus, closely connected, make brilliant aspects to other planets, so there should be no stopping you treading a path you have set your mind on. A new cycle begins mid-month in connection with the occurrence of a very fortunate financial situation. It should free up your style of living in ways you never thought possible. Whilst you have so much energy life will be hectic and on the 10th you may find yourself behaving irrationally - it could even find you proposing to a loved one. You are bound to be in a romantic mood whilst sexy Mars and feminine Venus in Aries make aspects with numerous planets. A reward of some sort awaits you around the 25th. Venus, the planet of love and harmony moves into Taurus on the 17th, when glowing with radiance it may be obvious to one and all that you are probably in love. Consider carefully colleagues comments when emotions intensify toward the end of March when you might not be able to say no to someone who would like to join you in domestic bliss. Around the time of the full Moon on the 5th and again on the 15th find time to get involved in lengthy discussions if you find yourself in a challenging domestic situation with disgruntled partners. Enjoy inspiration and loving support from friends who have your best interests at heart particularly older ones with useful advice to offer.

CANCER 21 Jun - 22 Jul

Financial issues are still highlighted in a somewhat negative fashion, so pay attention to any unnecessary expenditure. Long distance travel is indicated around the 18th and much pleasure can be enjoyed until the end of the month, when fiery Mars is conjoined with beautiful and harmonious Venus. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a time for love of the most romantic kind.

LEO 23 Jul - 22 Aug

Enjoy the special time you choose to spend with someone very much older than yourself. They should be very stabilising for you and full of good advice. The planet of enlightenment, Uranus, sexy Mars and romantic Venus are all conjoined in an astrological house that represents philosophical and foreign matters. Great dates for romance are 5/9/10th. 96 | MARCH Connector

With a full Moon on the 5th in Virgo your first priority should be to deal openly with finances, so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t keep secrets from loved ones. Shared expenses have to be revealed eventually, so upfront discussions would be best. A new cycle begins around the 17th concerning relationships. Romance is in the air - a good time to look for that soul mate. The new Moon on the 11th in Libra may be the awakening of strong emotions and a wonderfully romantic time, because it is Libra that has sexy Mars, romantic Venus and inspirational Uranus all together in your house of partners. The 4th, 14th and 25th are great days for get-togethers be it for friends, family or that very special person. Whilst in an impulsive creative state you might be in the mood to lay down the law to someone and attempt to prove that you are not working too hard. The 4th and 14th are days to chill out a little and enjoy some good company. It would not only amuse you but in so doing boost your health and help to avoid any challenging domestic issues. After the 15th Saturn appearing to turn retrograde in Sagittarius could make you feel cautious about organising any anniversaries or celebrations especially if youngsters are involved, so go with a creative peak in early March. Pull out all those stops and make those plans. Clear-headedness will result in a happier healthier you.

CAPRICORN 22 Dec - 19 Jan

Look forward to a lot of discussion and debates with family over matters that concern all of your best interests. It is a time for everyone to be honest about how they really feel and what they need to do to make a success of their lives. There should be a lot of love in the air during the days between 9th and 12th and much relief and happiness by the end of March.

AQUARIUS 20 Jan - 17 Feb

In the first few days of March you might have some surprising conversations about money and generosity with partners, (either business or personal). They may not have fully understood some changes you would like to make, but if you take the time to gently explain, in a charismatic way, you will have them totally on your side. www.connector.ae

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