Emirates Woman - June 2024

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Obaid Humaid Al Tayer

MANAGING PARTNER AND GROUP EDITOR Ian Fairservice

PUBLISHER/EDITOR Amy Sessions amy.sessions@motivate.ae

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR Olga Petroff

DIGITAL EDITOR Ruman Baig

DIGITAL STYLE EDITOR Sarah Joseph

FASHION EDITOR Camille Macawili

JUNIOR DESIGNER Charissa Canlas

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Londresa Flores

GENERAL MANAGER PRODUCTION Sunil Kumar PRODUCTION MANAGER Binu Purandaran

PRODUCTION SUPERVISOR Venita Pinto

CHIEF COMMERCIAL OFFICER Anthony Milne GROUP SALES MANAGER

Chaitali Khimji chaitali.khimji@motivate.ae SALES MANAGER

Daniela Mihai daniela.mihai@motivate.ae

GROUP MARKETING MANAGER Joelle Albeaino WEB DEVELOPER Firoz Kaladi

CONTRIBUTORS

Joëlle Albeaino, Izzy Turner, Mark Mathew, Ahmed Abd El-Wahab, Varun Godinho

HEAD OFFICE

Media One Tower, Dubai Media City, PO Box 2331, Dubai, UAE, Tel: (+971) 4 4273000, Fax: (+971) 4 4282261, E-mail: motivate@motivate.ae

DUBAI MEDIA CITY SD 2-94, 2nd Floor, Building 2, Dubai, UAE, Tel: (+971) 4 390 3550, Fax: (+971) 4 390 4845

ABU DHABI PO Box 43072, UAE, Tel: (+971) 2 677 2005, Fax: (+971) 2 677 0124, E-mail: motivate-adh@motivate.ae

SAUDI ARABIA Regus Offices No. 455 - 456, 4th Floor, Hamad Tower, King Fahad Road, Al Olaya, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Tel: (+966) 11 834 3595 / (+966) 11 834 3596, E-mail: motivate@motivate.ae

LONDON Acre House, 11/15 William Road, London NW1 3ER, UK, E-mail: motivateuk@motivate.ae

Welcome to The Body Issue.

Editor’s Letter

For this cover, we partnered with SMT (So Much Trouble), a brand repositioning the pre-loved retail landscape. Dominique Laird, founder of SMT and Partner and Creative Director at Solutions Leisure Group, delivers a heavy dose of cool girl style and discusses her journey of overcoming perfectionism in terms of both mind and body and her own personal development in Body of Work on page 14.

PROTECT YOUR PEACE

In this issue, we focus on form in terms of fitness, strength and optimal internal health. We deliver the best edit of form fitting pieces for SS24 in Bodycon on page 28, hero the best bodysuits to sculpt and shape in The Edit on page 26 and Marie-Paule Minchelli, Creative Director at ERES discusses quality, structure and composition in The Real Flex on page 32.

Beauty and wellness wise, Kate Neal, founder of Commune, speaks on building a brand in the luxury beauty space and bringing likeminded people together in The Commune on page 64, Founder of JSHealth, Jessica Sepel leads the way in harnessing the transformative power of supplements and vitamins to nourish your health and hack the body’s stress response in Health Hacking on page 68 and Dina ElShurafa, founder of Reform Athletica expands on how she’s created the luxury boutique fitness studio and where she’s taking it next in Sweat in Style on page 74.

The mind-body connection highlights the intricate relationship between the two throughout this issue – protect your peace, and your body will become a powerhouse of health.

Amy Sessions PUBLISHER / EDITOR

Seymour Body Cream Dhs398 COMMUNE

Embroidered cotton-jersey bodysuit Dhs2,680 Alaïa

Liposomal Glutathione (25 servings) Dhs388 Cymbiotika

THE HERO BUYS

Ring-detail ruched cutout maxi dress Dhs3,310 Christopher Esber exclusively available at MYTHERESA

and Seek – Christopher

Health Hacking – Jessica Sepel leads the way in harnessing the transformative power of supplements to hack the body’s stress response p.68

Fashion

The Edit p.26

Bodycon – Form fitting pieces for SS24 p.28

The Real Flex – MariePaule Minchelli, Creative Director at ERES p.32

True to Form – The founder of VAARA, Tatiana Korsakova, on finding balance and how the brand’s transformative styles bring an elevated approach to the activewear space p.36

Less Is More –Co-founders of resort wear brand Kióhne, Lydia

Beauty / Wellness

Hot New Buys p.62

Vousvouni and Amelia Theodoropoulou, share their journey of creating a timeless Grecianinspired label p.40

Curves Ahead –Mohammed Aqra, Chief Strategy Officer of the Arab Fashion Council and Ameni Esseibi, model and body positivity advocate, discuss championing body diversity p.44

Body Form – ALAÏA p.48

Body Essentials –Salt & Stone’s intentional feel-good formulations deliver a sense of escapism to the everyday p.70

Sweat in Style –Dina ElShurafa, founder of Reform Athletica on how she’s created the luxury boutique fitness studio and where she’s taking it next p.74

A Tranquil Haven – The Dior Spa at The Lana, Dorchester in Dubai p.76

A Perfect Fit – Kylie Jenner’s KHY Drop 005 in collaboration with designer Natasha Zinko p.52

Hide

Esber SS24 p.56

CONTENTS

June 2024

Summer Discipline –Jackson Litchfield talks wellness and carving out a summer body p.78

Nourishing Your Body

– Jeff Zorn, founder of Nourishing, on how he launched Dubai’s first true health food kitchen p.80

A Healing Force –Gut health, the benefits of bone broth and building a brand with Hadil Al-Khatib, founder and CEO of The Broth Lab p.82

Body Talk – A controversial weight-

loss medication GLP-1 raises huge questions on its long-term effects and who should be taking it p.86

The Body’s Truth – RTT founder, Marisa Peer shares how the body holds thoughts and memories in our nervous system and what to do if any of these are impacting our lives using Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) p.88

The Commune – Kate Neal, founder of Commune, on building a brand in the luxury beauty space and bringing likeminded people together p.64

Beating Burnout –Dr Gurveen Ranger, Clinical Psychologist, Lead for Corporate Wellbeing and Adult Mental Health at Sage Clinics, on recognising the signs of career burnout p.90

Beauty Shelf –Nadia Zaal p.93

Energy Boost –IV drips to prep you pre-summer p.94

AM/PM Beauty – Huda Al Nuaimi p.96

Personal Space – Inside the office with Dina ElShurafa, founder of Reform Athletica p.98

Lifestyle

The Wanderlust –Amankila p.104

Sweat and the City –Next-level fitness and wellness concepts p.108 The Body Reset p.112

Longevity Potential – Paulina Mercader, General Manager of the Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie p.116

Food for the Soul –Founder of Terra Eatery, Rashed Al Tayer, on creating a locally grown haven that nourishes mind, body and soul p.118

So Much Trouble

The Wellness Era

The latest launches, new openings and hero buys

WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

REDEFINING COMFORT

The new The Giving Movement store in Dubai Hills Mall represents its expansion of physical retail, presenting customers with an engaging environment for a new shopping experience.

THE HERO BUYS

Wunder Train Mesh Racerback Tank Top Dhs301 Lululemon

Yoga Align Nulu Leggings Dhs389 Lululemon

Callippus Aromatique Candle, 300g Dhs425 Aesop

Organic Matcha Cocktail Grade Kagoshima Dhs245 Avantcha

Holistic Health Purity Daily

Detox 2-Month Supplement

Dhs1,343 Clinique La Prairie

Cloud 5 Mesh Sneakers

Dhs575 ON

Camo Warrior Mat

Dhs575 Alo Yoga

@amankila

The remote coastal hideaway to give your body a break.

@jshealthvitamins Science-backed supplements that deliver results.

@terra.eatery

A malleable amalgam inspired by people and places.

@reformathletica

An art-loving fitness space with Reformer pilates.

@kiohne_ Sleek resort wear designed in Greece.

@longevityhub Combining transformative health science with wellness solutions.

COMPILED BY: SARAH

JOSEPH

@eres

Discover Parisian savoir-faire through its seamless swimwear pieces.

@aesopskincare Vegan and cruelty-free formulations that are good for your skin.

@nourishingdubai Take the stress out of healthy living.

CREATIVE DIRECTION: AMY SESSIONS

BODY OF

Dominique Laird, founder of So Much Trouble, and Partner and Creative Director at Solutions Leisure Group, reflects on her journey toward discovering her unique style identity. She discusses how surmounting perfectionism and self-criticism has significantly influenced both her brands and her personal development

WORK

PHOTOGRAPHY: ŽIGA MIHEL I

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

My go-to outfit includes fitted leggings, a bodysuit, and an oversized blazer. I adore a snatched waist and accentuated shoulder padding. You’ll usually find me in boots –cowboy, knee-high, thigh-length, dunks, booties. I can’t do my job in stilettos, but a mini heel gives me that extra boost.

How do you approach dressing up – do you have a go-to feel-good formula for looking and feeling your best even on off days? I prefer functional outfits that allow me to move freely and feel comfortable. In my twenties, I dressed to look thin, creating a black, lifeless, oversized wardrobe. As my self-worth and appreciation grew, I learned to appreciate my body’s lines and use fashion as a form of creative expression and empowerment. Now, I enjoy fashion as a feel-good factor and creative outlet.

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?

My alarm goes off at 6am, and I fight the urge to hit snooze. My partner, Paul, brings me coffee in bed, which is honestly one of my favourite parts of the day. It’s the simple things amidst the chaos. I have a personal trainer three mornings a week, and on the other days, I do selfled Pilates, functional, and weight training on my balcony overlooking the water, followed by an ice bath. Occasionally, I’ll dance if the music takes me. Then, I get ready for the day, which is always varied. We usually start with board-level meetings to set the agenda, and then I’m out the door. Whether I’m on-site at one of the venues, checking on new projects, sourcing products, or in the office, I find that how I dress for the day sets the tone: confident, comfy, creative, and empowered. Tell us about your latest experiential venture, So Much Trouble. What was the catalyst to launching this concept? Fashion has always been an outlet for me – a way to express myself and boost my confidence. Growing up, I was quite loud and vibrant but lacked a lot of confidence. Staying true to my style was my way of powering through personal challenges. Solutions is about creating moments for people, and for me, creating moments of inclusion, opportunity, and genuine joy is at the center of everything I do. When the opportunity arose to fill a quirky space in the heart of Dubai Marina, I knew it was our moment to shake up the industry. We aimed to make fashion fun, style accessible, and bring personality back to the social scene by combining two favourite things—shopping and cocktails. Inspired by Carrie Bradshaw’s iconic wardrobe scene in Sex and the City, we wanted to bring back moments of love and happiness, making cult brands and vintage luxuries accessible with the region’s first sip-and-shop soirée. What pieces do you select for SMT and how do you go about authenticating them? I am a strong advocate for preloved and vintage fashion, inspired by designers like Lagerfeld, Gaultier, Mugler, Versace, Galliano, and Westwood. Finding vintage treasures is my secret passion. The quality and craftsmanship of vintage pieces are undeniable, and there’s something magical about the stories they carry. We carefully source from authenticated dealers and further authenticate through Entrupy, a global authentication platform. I personally handle the buying, both online and on trips to Milan and Paris, seeking rare and iconic pieces. Our first Boujee Boot sale on June 7 will be a Friday night get-together where friends of the brand and customers can sell their preloved luxuries over cocktails. I’m excited for this and look forward to hosting a style supper club and trunk shows after my next sourcing trip. Which vintage pieces are a good investment in terms of appreciation value? Hermès, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton are our top performers, with pieces like the Hermès Constance, Hermès Picotin, Chanel Deauville Tote, and Louis Vuitton Neverfull. Designer bags have increased in resale value more than houses and cars over the past decade. Chanel’s pre-2008 pieces, which featured gold hardware and excellent leather quality, have appreciated in value significantly. The shift post-2008, when Chanel stopped using real gold, has made vintage Chanel bags even more valuable. I believe the Karl Lagerfeld era of Chanel will always be valuable, especially items in mint condition. What are the key components of your personal style? I love strong lines and shapes that flatter the female form. Black is a staple in my wardrobe, and I over-accessorize with belts, chains, and glasses.

You’ve built Blended Wellness as a space where one can feel at home and focus on their self-care needs. Was this your vision from the outset? Blended Wellness started as a passion project alongside my full-time job as Creative Director. Struggling with self-worth, I wanted to create a space where people could celebrate themselves, feel supported, and feel enough in a city where everything is at your fingertips and social media makes us question who we are. Blended is a safe space of love, confidence, and community. We offer a range of services from fitness and wellness to salon, spa, aesthetics, and mindfulness, all curated to make people feel good. Our fitness memberships, multi-service salon experiences, Pureborn Bump Day Spa, full-day retreats, and collaborations for wellness and beach days are all part of creating those moments. How has your relationship with your body changed over the years? Between 16 and 18, I wasn’t in a great headspace. It took until I was 30 to appreciate my body and learn that my imperfections are perfect. My journey was about flipping my perspective and being kinder to myself. I had to stop comparing myself to others and develop a positive and confident approach to who I was. Some days are easier than others, but I embrace the struggle.

You’re an incredible advocate for body positivity. Where does your own confidence come from and what has helped you feel comfortable in your own body? My partner, Paul, has been a major influence on my self-perception. He encourages and motivates me daily to embody a positive and balanced mindset. Paul introduced me to my life coach, Dr Ryan Penny, seven years ago. Both men have significantly influenced who I am today. My journey involved being kinder to myself and developing daily strength and determination to stay balanced and focused. I’m proud of my progress and aim to help others feel confident in who they are.

When have you been most proud of your body’s strength or resilience? This photoshoot for Emirates Woman is a significant moment for me. It signifies the journey I’ve been on personally and hopefully helps others feel confident in themselves. Celebrating myself and my brands, posing in a leotard and leggings, is something I never thought I was strong enough to do. I am honoured to represent everyone who has struggled with their reflection and compromised their health. I will never again let negative thoughts dictate my lifestyle or stop me from achieving my dreams.

How do you manage your passions and businesses without spreading yourself too thin? I haven’t found the perfect balance yet. I love what I do, whether it’s fashion, wellness, or building a brand, and I struggle to turn off. I incorporate wellness and self-care into my schedule but still have to force myself to take breaks. I’m proud of being a go-getter and am okay with my relentless drive.

What’s one piece of self-care advice you’d give to your younger self? I would give my 16-year-old self a mirror and point out all the beautiful things. I’d tell myself every day to smile and say, “You are fine exactly as you are.”

This is The Body Issue – what are your non-negotiable, game-changing self and body care practices after a hard-earned week? An almond milk matcha latte over the weekend sets the tone. I force myself to move – walking, paddling, Pilates, or yoga. The cinema is my escape, with popcorn, coffee, and Maltesers – it’s my time to empty my mind. An early night on Sunday prepares me for the week ahead. And, of course, spending downtime with Paul.

THE EDIT

The best bodysuits to sculpt and shape

Long Sleeve

Bodysuit Dhs826 ÉTERNE

Jersey turtleneck bodysuit

Dhs5,070 Alaïa

Jersey-trimmed cotton-poplin thong bodysuit

Dhs4,202 Mugler

Bodysuit with ruffled straps

Dhs149 Zara

Thong BodysuitClay Dhs310 SKIMS

Sylph cutout silk-blend satin underwired thong bodysuit

Dhs842 Coco De Mer

Scuba stretchjersey thong bodysuit Dhs485

Good American

Jennifer cutout stretch-crepe bodysuit Dhs2,766

TOVE available at NET-A-PORTER

Lace-trimmed stretch-tulle bodysuit

Dhs5,900 Dolce&Gabbana

Open-back silkblend georgette bodysuit Dhs6,050 Saint Laurent

Seamless Sculpt

Crochet dress with open back Dhs750

Victoria Beckham X Mango

WORDS & STYLING: AMY SESSIONS

BODYCON

FORM FITTING PIECES FOR SS24

MIRANDA KERR FOR ÉTERNE

Ribbed stretchjersey maxi dress Dhs1,159 ÉTERNE

Contrast Tulle Dress Dhs179 Zara

Embroidered mini dress Dhs1,580 Off-White

TOTEME available at NET-A-PORTER

Ribbed-knit maxi dress Dhs1,159

Fits Everybody Crew Neck

Long Sleeve Dress - Cocoa Dhs374 SKIMS

Ruched stretch-tulle mini dress Dhs8,900 Saint Laurent

Crystal Orbit Column Dress Dhs1,192

Christopher Esber

Stretch Dress Dhs179 Zara

Real THE FLEX

Marie-Paule Minchelli, Creative Director at

ERES on incorporating a distinct French sensibility to design an activewear range that shape and accentuate the female figure

WORDS:

CAMILLE MACAWILI

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? First of all, I get up very early, around 6-7am, and I start by having a lemon and hot water, but only hot water. Then I shower and go for breakfast. How has your background in the lingerie industry influenced your design approach? It taught me a lot: precision, a great deal of rigour, technical skills and knowhow surrounded by experts.

How would you define the DNA of the brand and how has it evolved under you? Spectacular minimalism, focused on women: all women, all morphologies, making them beautiful so that they feel good in their bodies, the products are comfortable and elegant, dressing them from morning to night. What is the most important to you when building a new collection – where do you begin? You have to find the inspiration, you start with colours, a print, a lace, it’s the inspiration that makes the continuity. What was your inspiration for the utilitarian and colour-blocked styles we’re seeing in this collection? Inspiration: for example, for this collection, a belt at the Vanves flea market, with a 70s, Mexican, multicolour spirit and then the fact that the colours match and mismatch. This is the DNA of the brand, all the colours are different, they have to be pretty on their own but harmonious together You developed the fabrics for the activewear pieces. Can you explain the technology behind the fits? We have three new fabrics: all different, ultra-stretchy and comfortable. A smooth fabric, a ribbed fabric and a flowing fabric.

To you, what are the essential pieces from the range? Asymmetric and two-tone suits are the highlights of the collection.

How has your love of travel influenced your designs and overall brand aesthetic? Travelling is enriching, we discover new architec-

ture, new landscapes, new civilisations. It’s interesting, it’s enriching to see what’s going on around us. Our customer is a traveller, so she finds herself in our collections. It’s inspiring to be on holiday. You always have to put yourself in a situation.

The Middle East is a key market for ERES. What do you think women in the region find so appealing about the brand and products? It’s luxury à la francaise, refinement, level of detail, sophistication, lace: exceptional materials.

How do you aim to add a positive influence of body positivity and inclusivity through your designs? To offer as many products as possible that can be adapted to all body shapes, to design products with this in mind, with cuts that shape the body, to highlight the woman’s body.

This is The Body Issue – what are your nonnegotiable self and body care practices and how does it make a difference? I do yoga: I use the “asana rebel” app, they do short programmes every day, meditation programmes. It adapts to the time we have, very soothing. I use Nucca creams a lot every day – natural products made from products grown in Corsica are immortelle.

CAMILLE MACAWILI

The founder of VAARA, Tatiana Korsakova, on finding balance and how the brand’s transformative styles bring an elevated approach to the activewear space

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? As a mother of three I rarely have slow mornings. I always aim to wake up before my children and take around 10 minutes for meditation before the busy day begins. These few minutes allow me to frame my day properly and begin it mindfully. After getting ready, I drop my kids off at school and when I return home, I carve out another 30 minutes just for myself. During this time, I usually practice yoga and breathing exercises. I also like to take short morning walks to get some fresh air and clear my mind. What inspired you to start your brand and how many styles did you launch with? Fashion and wellness have long been the twin pillars of my passion, which have now served as the driving force behind the brand and why I founded VAARA. My vision was to challenge the status quo in athleisure, transcending conventional boundaries in this space. In the early days, we launched with a focused capsule of performance pieces knowing that we needed to get the foundations right first. Quality was paramount, both from a material point of view and craftsmanship. This commitment to excellence has remained unwavering since day one, guiding us as our collections have evolved. How would you define the DNA of the brand and how do you approach things differently?At VAARA our DNA is built around having a distinct identity that fuses layering, versatility and utility. We purposefully sit between fashion and lifestyle. Knowing that within fashion, desire is more powerful than reason but within activewear, we have to deliver technical prowess that supports our customers in their activities throughout their day.

VAARA’s pieces are designed to sculpt and support. What, in your opinion, are the brand hero styles? While our Bi-Colour set, which we updated for SS24, remains iconic, I consider our leggings as a whole the true heroes of VAARA. Adaptable, functional, and a wardrobe essential for me personally. However, our recent swimwear launch has been incredibly successful, so there could be some competition here.

Your product has become a staple in many people’s workout routines globally, how does it feel? It can be challenging to pause and truly grasp the impact

“This intentional design approach brings versatility to our pieces

our brand has had on people’s lifestyles worldwide. Nevertheless, I’m filled with immense pride for what VAARA represents and the journey we’re on. While we’ve achieved a lot, I’m excited about the future and the possibilities that lie ahead. There’s still so much more in store.

Where is your production based and how challenging was it to source the finest materials? Our production is exclusively based in Europe where we only work with the best ateliers. It was a decision made early at VAARA, partly because it is easier for us to control quality but also for sustainability reasons, given that our design studio is based in London, near-shoring production was a strategic move. The sourcing process is always complex, but we have built up our trusted partners over time.

The brand is aesthetically super clean - was this your vision from the outset? Indeed, the clean aesthetic of VAARA was envisioned from the outset, characterised by a subtle minimal edge. This intentional design approach brings versatility to our pieces and makes it easier to layer into different looks. When I launched VAARA, the athleisure space was full of loud, brash brands and I found it difficult to build these into my wardrobe. We wanted to do something different with VAARA.

What is your go-to workout and where do you get the motivation to be consistent? The nature of my workouts varies depending on the time of day and the amount of free time I have available. I prefer high-intensity exercises, Pilates and dancing. Dancing workouts, in particular, hold a special place in my heart as they not only benefit the body but also help in building beautiful lean muscles. I’m a strong believer that by incorporating diverse workouts into the routine you can sculpt a strong and beautiful body. It is important to avoid getting trapped in a monotonous exercise regimen. What are the feel-good body essentials you reach out for after a hard-earned week? My weeks are incredibly full. As founder of Scentiana beauty brand, I have created my favourite Rescuing Body Balm as an antidote to the modern world. Its transformative properties replenish and rejuvenate tired skin. I exercise daily, frequently wear high-heels at business meetings, fashion weeks and photoshoots, and after a long week my go-to method of recovery is either deep tissue massage with the balm or reflexology. The balm is formulated with retinol to help stimulate natural collagen production, coupled with arnica and calendula to soothe and repair. I wake up to beautiful smoother, firmer skin, and ready for a new day.

This is The Body Issue – what are your non-negotiable, game-changing self and body practices? I meditate every day, and for me, this gives me space for moments of mindfulness, reflection and inspiration. Scent plays a key part in my practice, and I’ll deeply inhale the Scentiana Sensual Body Oil with Rose Damascena, Indian Jasmine and Neroli to calm the nervous system and help to focus my mind.

and makes it easier to layer into different looks”

LESS IS MORE

Co-founders of resort wear brand Kióhne, Lydia Vousvouni and Amelia Theodoropoulou, share their journey of creating a timeless Grecian-inspired label

WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? LV: The first 20 minutes of my day I am rushing around trying to coordinate my 4-year-old daughter’s morning routine including breakfast and getting dressed. If successful at that, I move on to my morning yoga to try and reset the tone for the rest of my day.

AT: The first half-hour of my day is truly invaluable because it’s dedicated to bonding with my six-month-old son. This quality time includes morning cuddles, tidying up, and making breakfast together. After that, I dress him for his morning walk and I gear up for my day at work.

modern architectural gems amid some ancient temples and ruins showcasing the origins of architecture and design geometry.

How do you manage to keep local craftsmanship alive through your work? AT: All our products are crafted in Greece by local artisans, and the entire production process is supported by local factories. In doing so, through our signature hand embroidery we highlight and expose high quality local cratsmanship.

The cutting-edge fabrics offer body shaping with 50+ UV Protection – how was this important during the creative process? LV: As a designer I have always insisted on using high-quality materials to match a high-quality design and produce a high-quality product.

The cutting-edge fabrics represent this approach highlighting the body figure with an elegant seamless touch. Nowadays protection against sunlight is crucial, so we ensured the fabrics used would protect our skin against UV exposure.

Can you talk us through your manufacturing process? LV: Having selected the best quality materials, I work closely with our technical team to ensure the ideal fit in all body shapes and different styles.

At the same time as I am very passionate about excellent seams and clean inner finishing of a garment, we work intensively on each piece to achieve the most appropriate manufacturing technique. Then we produce a prototype to move on to as many fittings and alterations as needed. When prototypes are finalised, we move to the production process which we overlook until we get everything ready before we do the quality control.

The pieces can be worn from day to night and from beach to street –was this the plan from the outset? AT: This concept has always been at the core of each style. Many of our swimwear designs are versatile enough to transition seamlessly from daytime to evening wear as tops. Our cover-ups are ideal attire for a day spent at the beach or pool, as well as for an evening outing.

“Nowadays protection against sunlight is crucial, so we ensured the fabrics used would protect our skin against UV exposure”

What inspired you to launch the swimwear brand Kióhne? AT: Lydia and I share the same passion for summer, architecture, and design. From the very beginning we had the same vision, to create something new, something fresh that doesn’t exist on the market. That’s how we started Kióhne. Our profound desire to create but also to find a way to express and capture the beauty of Greece was what determined our course. This is expressed in timeless pieces of exceptional quality that highlight the woman and radiate dynamism. Our main goal was for all our products to be able to represent abroad the quality and cratsmanship of Greece while highlighting its exotic and modern side. A brand inspired by modern Greece.

The pieces are inspired by the architecture of Greece – tell us more. LV: Throughout the designing process architecture plays a fundamental role for me. Greece is a country that is very rich in contrasting environments while Greek architecture has a unique identity and style. For instance, the Cycladic architecture that blends with the rough and dry nature of the Cyclades is an emotional stimulant for us that leads us to so many design ideas. Then cities like Athens combine a rough and disorganised architectural landscape, with some exquisite

How have you implemented sustainable practices throughout the brand? Our primary focus lies in optimising the production process to minimise waste. We consistently prioritise excellent working conditions and ensure that our collaborators are passionate about their roles. We diligently evaluate all our suppliers, emphasising their commitment to social and environmental responsibility and we continually seek out innovative sustainable materials, like the fabric used in the Tube bag, which is created from recycled waste retrieved from the sea.

How has the brand adopted the concept of inclusitivity? AT: We aim to create timeless pieces that flatter the female body and we offer a variety of styles and sizes to accommodate almost all body types so that every woman can feel confident wearing Kióhne swimsuits. The collection allows for a timeless contemporary wardrobe – how did you create capsule pieces? AT: I have always focused on creating cutting-edge designs, while aspiring to maintain an underlying classic design language. The balance between the two is not always apparent. However, I believe Kióhne stands out by being placed at that fine line creating contemporary, yet capsule pieces.

This is The Body Issue – what are your non-negotiable self and body care practices? AT: In order to keep up with a hectic lifestyle as a mother, creative director and businesswoman, I insist in certain simple yet effecve self and body care practices. I do yoga nearly every day, which helps me keep my mind, body and soul healthy. I always walk to work which helps my blood circulation but also is the greatest time for myself. Every night to unwind and prepare for bed I take a long shower and apply a night face and body cream.

CURVES

AHEAD

Mohammed Aqra, Chief Strategy Officer of the Arab Fashion Council and Ameni Esseibi, model and body positivity advocate, discuss championing body diversity and inclusivity in fashion, transforming industry standards and a healthy body

MOHAMMED AQRA

CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER –ARAB FASHION COUNCIL

How do you believe perceptions of body diversity have evolved within the fashion industry over the past decade, particularly in the context of the UAE? Over the past decade, the fashion industry, including in the UAE, has grown more appreciative of diversity in body shapes, sizes, ethnicities, genders, and abilities. Designers are at the forefront of this shift, using their collections to challenge traditional beauty standards and promote inclusivity. A key issue is the size of sample garments, which are often too small for a diverse range of models. By creating larger and more varied sample sizes, designers can accommodate more body types, helping to make the industry more inclusive and representative of all forms of beauty. How does the Arab Fashion Council promote body diversity within the fashion industry in the UAE? The Arab Fashion Council promotes body diversity through its initiatives, particularly during Dubai Fashion Week. This event showcases diverse models and designs, emphasising inclusivity alongside major international fashion weeks. One notable example is the collaboration between the Arab Fashion Council and Mattel, where the council worked with couturier JeanLouis Sabaji on a capsule collection featuring Barbie. This collection was remarkable for its diverse showcase, including plussize models on the runway, highlighting the council’s commitment to celebrating a variety of body types in fashion.

How does the Arab Fashion Council collaborate with designers and brands to ensure inclusivity in their collections regarding body size and shape? The Arab Fashion Council (AFC) actively promotes inclusivity in fashion, particularly regarding body size and shape, exemplified by appointing Ameni Esseibi as their first plus-size ambassador. Esseibi, a prominent advocate for diversity in fashion, aligns with the AFC’s mission for greater representation and inclusivity. The AFC collaborates with global brands like Mattel, Microsoft, META, DHL, GoDaddy, and Dyson to connect regional creatives with international markets, supporting the council’s mission to foster a more inclusive and diverse fashion environment. What challenges do you think designers face in embracing body diversity in their collections and how can they overcome them? Designers face significant challenges in embracing body diversity, primarily due to the higher costs and complexity associated with producing garments in an extensive range of sizes. Additionally, there’s a deep-rooted industry norm that predominantly favours a limited spectrum of body types. To overcome these barriers, designers can leverage advanced technology to streamline design and manufacturing processes, reducing costs and complexity. Utilising predictive analytics and consumer behaviour data can help designers better understand and respond to market demand for inclusive sizing. Adopting inclusive marketing strategies that feature a diverse array of models can reshape consumer perceptions and demonstrate the viability and necessity of body diversity in

fashion. Such strategic actions can catalyse broader changes, influencing other designers and brands to prioritise inclusivity. In your view, what role does body diversity play in promoting inclusivity and representation within the fashion landscape of the UAE? Body diversity is essential for promoting inclusivity and representation in the UAE’s fashion industry. It challenges old beauty standards and celebrates the variety of human forms, supporting underrepresented groups by increasing their visibility and boosting consumer confidence as people see themselves reflected in fashion. Dubai Fashion Week is a great example of this, featuring models of different ethnicities, ages, and body sizes, leading the way in creating a more inclusive fashion environment. Embracing body diversity is also strategic for business, allowing brands to reach a wider audience, tap into new markets, and increase brand loyalty and market share. How can consumer awareness be raised about the importance of body diversity in fashion without making it look tokenistic? To raise consumer awareness about the importance of body diversity in fashion without appearing tokenistic, the industry must embed inclusivity as a core value, not just a marketing strategy. This involves extending clothing sizes to accommodate all body types and consistently showcasing diverse models across campaigns. An effective feedback system where consumers can influence brand practices is essential. UAE-based brand Dima Ayad is an example, gaining acclaim for its genuine representation of diverse body shapes, ethnicities, and backgrounds. By in-

WORDS: RUMAN BAIG

“I envision a future where body diversity in the UAE fashion industry is celebrated, creating an inclusive and empowering environment that honours human diversity”

tegrating inclusivity into every facet of their operations, fashion brands can create a lasting cultural shift towards body diversity. In what ways does the Arab Fashion Council advocate for more representation of diverse body types in fashion in the UAE? The Arab Fashion Council (AFC) integrates diversity and inclusivity into Dubai Fashion Week by featuring models of various body types, sizes, and backgrounds. The AFC collaborates with designers, advocating for larger sample sizes to empower casting directors to hire models of all sizes. The council partners with body positivity advocates and organisations, conducting workshops, campaigns, and public discussions to educate and influence the industry, ensuring that the celebration of diverse body types becomes a norm. How do you envision the future of body diversity in the UAE fashion industry, and what role do you see the Arab Fashion Council playing in shaping that future? I envision a future where body diversity in the UAE fashion industry is celebrated, creating an inclusive and empowering environment that honours human diversity. The Arab Fashion Council can play a pivotal role by shaping policies and setting industry standards that champion inclusivity, advocating for regulatory changes mandating inclusive sizing, promoting educational reforms, sponsoring diverse fashion initiatives, and launching awareness campaigns. By spearheading these initiatives, the AFC can significantly influence both the commercial and cultural aspects of the fashion industry. How can the fashion industry in the UAE leverage technological advancements to further promote body diversity and inclusivity? To revolutionise the UAE’s fashion industry’s approach to body diversity and inclusivity, leveraging advanced technology is key. Implementing virtual fitting room technology addresses pivotal challenges and enhances the consumer experience, allowing customers to visualise how garments fit without physical trials. Utilizing data analytics, machine learning, and AI, fashion brands can refine their marketing strategies to ensure a personalised customer ex-

tremely beautiful and nourishing, learning to love every inch of myself more each day. Growing up in a judgmental society and work environment, I’ve developed thick skin and learned the difference between constructive criticism and judgement out of jealousy. Every day, I overcome some insecurities, build new ones, and learn to love myself even more, becoming more confident and discovering new aspects of my personality.

perience. These technologies enable brands to align their advertising content with the preferences of diverse consumer groups, increasing engagement and loyalty.

In your experience, how does the perception of body diversity differ between international fashion capitals and the UAE, and what lessons can be learned from both contexts? Perceptions of body diversity differ between fashion hubs and the UAE. Fashion capitals celebrate diverse bodies, while the UAE values modesty and cultural norms. From international fashion capitals, we learn to embrace diversity and promote inclusivity.

In a world where traditional beauty standards often still prevail, how do you navigate the challenges and stereotypes associated with being a curvy model, especially in the MENA region? Many have opinions about my career and methods. I don’t conform to society’s insecurities and have developed thick skin and a protective barrier that shields me from offensive comments. Traumatic experiences have toughened me, and I focus on my career’s end goal, knowing that I am fighting for a great cause and changing society. Despite daily challenges, I fight, sometimes losing battles but ultimately winning the war.

In the UAE, it’s crucial to respect modesty. Bridging these perspectives involves creating fashion that respects modesty while celebrating all body types, honouring cultural traditions while fostering inclusivity.

AMENI ESSEIBI MODEL AND BODY POSITIVITY ADVOCATE

Tell us about your personal journey towards embracing body diversity and becoming a prominent figure in the modelling industry. It’s been a long, tough journey but also ex-

As a trailblazer in the industry, what initiatives or changes would you like to see to promote greater inclusivity and representation of diverse body types in fashion and media? Much change is needed, such as more diverse castings in fashion weeks and campaigns, expanding size ranges in retail, authentic representation, diverse design teams, inclusive marketing, community engagement, and policy advocacy. Implementing these initiatives can move fashion and media towards a more inclusive and representative future, celebrating all body types.

How do you believe the perception of beauty and body diversity has evolved in the MENA region over recent years, and what role do you see yourself playing in this transformation? The youth movement has driven changes in the MENA region. The young generation doesn’t adhere to old societal

“I aim to inspire young women and girls to love themselves and foster

norms and values authenticity. Local voices matter, and people want relatable, authentic representations. My role is crucial in this transformation, using my platform to speak out, express myself through campaigns and runways, and create a supportive community on social media.

Beyond the surface level, how do you think society’s views on body image impact individuals’ mental and emotional well-being, and what steps can be taken to promote a more positive and accepting environment?

Society’s unrealistic beauty standards can severely impact mental and emotional wellbeing, leading to low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. Promoting a positive and accepting environment involves diverse media representation, un-

retouched photos, body positivity education, media literacy, mental health support, inclusive workplace policies, anti-bullying measures, and community campaigns that celebrate body diversity. Could you share a particularly memorable experience or encounter that reinforced the importance of embracing body diversity in your career and personal life? Every time I’m booked for a modelling shoot or casting, seeing casting directors judge our bodies publicly and without empathy reinforces the importance of loving and respecting every

inch of my body. Realising how much my body does for me daily, I know that any differing opinions are their problem, not mine. In what ways do you use your platform to advocate for body positivity and self-love, and what messages do you hope to convey to your audience, especially young women and girls?

I use my platform to showcase diverse bodies, share unretouched images, and provide educational resources on body positivity and media literacy. I share my own body image journey and feature guest stories to create a supportive community. I aim to inspire young women and girls to love themselves and foster a more inclusive view of body image, emphasising unique beauty, rejecting unrealistic standards, prioritising health, celebrating diversity, and practising self-acceptance.

a more inclusive view of body image, emphasising unique beauty...”

Under the deft hand of Pieter Mulier, tactile fabrications and form-defining silhouettes that echo archival designs are heightened for WS24

BODY FORM

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

A Perfect Fit

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

Kylie Jenner’s KHY Drop 005 in collaboration with designer Natasha Zinko serves a selection of ultraflattering denim styles and deconstructed tees with unique cuts and innovative details

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

HIDE & SEEK

CHRISTOPHER ESBER LENDS AN ELEVATED SPIN ON HIS SIGNATURE CUTOUTS AND DECONSTRUCTED DETAILS WITH ENVIABLE EASE FOR SS24

Hot New Buys

WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

An edit of the latest beauty buys that you need to know

Boost Radiance

Superpowered by a blend of 11 amino acids to support skin elasticity. Super Amino Cleanser, 150ml Dhs166 Summer Fridays

PLANT POLYMERS EXTRACTS

It works across multiple zones to target the appearance of wrinkles. Capture Totale Hyalushots, 15ml Dhs370 Dior

TROPICAL NOTES

Emulates a blend of vanilla bean extract, velvety cashmere wood and powdery musk accords. Collection of Emotions Joyphoria, 100ml Dhs521 Charlotte Tilbury

Soothing Peppermint

A fast-absorbing aromatherapy gel to help calm your senses. Find Comfort Stop & Soothe Pen Dhs115 Rare Beauty

Sheer Tint

This niacinamide-infused serum provides a natural warm glow. Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Hue Drops Sun Glow Dhs135 Glow Recipe

SERUM BOOSTED

Delivers natural-looking skin with healthy radiant glow. Beauty Balm Serum Boosted Skin Tint Dhs170 Anastasia Beverly Hills

DIAMOND RADIANCE

Natural lips appear plumper with lipidboosting date seed extract. Re-Nutriv The Diamond Serum Lipstick Dhs367 Estée Lauder

NATURAL SCULPT

Infused with beeswax to lengthen, curl and volumise. Honey-Infused LashPlumper Noir 4G Bee Serum Primer Dhs184 Guerlain

THE COMMUNE

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

We discuss building a brand in the luxury beauty space and bringing likeminded people together with Kate Neal, founder of Commune

“Our process began with a focus on scent, as we believe in the healing power

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine – and how non-negotiable are these practices? Each morning, I ensure I'm the first one up, ready to embrace the day before it starts buzzing with energy, thanks to my two lively young boys. My routine begins with brewing a fresh cup of coffee, a ritual that grants me a moment of peace to mentally prepare. I take this time to set my intentions and always ask myself how I’m going to show up today. I’m currently working on a new scent for future products so my first 30 minutes will always involve

smelling my blends first thing in the morning to see how they have evolved overnight. How did you know it was the right time to launch Commune and what was the catalyst for this? I co-founded Commune with my husband Remi. The brand is a reflection of both our personal and professional journeys. With extensive backgrounds in designer fashion, we dotted between the fashion capitals of London, New York, Paris, and Milan for most of our careers, before finding ourselves in Vancouver, Canada. There, Remi took on a head of creative role in a prominent wellness and sport company, exposing us to a lifestyle centered around nature, wellness, and mindfulness. During this time, I entered the world of natural perfume. Whilst living on the West Coast I had the opportunity to train with a renowned and inspiring master of natural perfume – Mandy Aftel in San Francisco. I felt a deep connection to her way of teaching, and I fell in love with the natural essences, and the transportive power of scent.

When we returned to the UK at the onset of the lockdown, we settled in a quaint hamlet near Bruton, Somerset. We knew we wanted to start a business together since our experience spans a range of complementary skills from creative, product and packaging design, scent creation, sales and sustainability. We felt self-care was the perfect vehicle for our expression. The over-arching intention with Commune is to cultivate a community of like-minded people — individuals who share a profound appreciation for aesthetics and design, people who are mindful about their consumption, seeking to make sustainable choices in their purchases. Through our brand, we endeavor to unite these like-minded individuals, fostering a community bound by shared values and a collective dedication to living thoughtfully and authentically. How much do you rely on analytics and how much on gut feel when it comes to brand building? Right now, we rely entirely on our gut feel. Our sense of purpose and passion for what we do serves as a guiding light in our brand-building journey, giving us the strength to make bold and intuitive decisions that resonate with our values and vision. While we recognise the value of data, especially as companies grow, we believe that intuition and gut feelings play such a key role in creativity, innovation, and risk taking.

of natural essences to elevate people’s moods and rituals. We crafted a natural and complex perfume to use across a family of products.”

Was Commune a global brand in your mind from the outset and how do you scale without compromising on quality? Yes absolutely. We have both worked across the globe and from the outset we knew we wanted Commune to be a global brand with a firm root in Somerset where the people, the land, and the energy inspire us. We are scaling at our own rhythm so we can keep close to every element of the business from product to packaging to end customer service. For example, we wanted to operate our own warehousing from the outset enabling us to give special attention to customer experience. You have an entrepreneurial spirit – what is the biggest risk you’ve ever taken, and what was the tipping point of it pay off? Commune is by far the biggest risk we have taken, and it’s still a bit early to have the pay off since we only launched the brand a year-and-a-half ago. But we are in this for the long term, and the decisions we make are not for short term wins, but for laying solid foundations upon which we can grow. We are very much shaping Commune to be a business that we would be happy to spend decades working on and growing. What are the brand pillars of Commune? We created the brand on the pillars of Design, Sustainability, and Community. The products are game changing and create such soft skin and hair – what is the secret to this and how long did this take to formulate?

In all honesty it took a long time. We wanted to establish a deeper connection with nature, reflected in our commitment to using natural ingredients in our formulations. Our process began with a focus on scent, as we believe in the healing power of natural essences to elevate people’s moods and rituals. We crafted a natural and complex perfume to use across a family of products. Then we prioritised effectiveness, selecting nourishing oils like jojoba, rosehip, and coconut, along with indulgent butters such as

shea and cocoa, to ensure our formulations deliver tangible benefits. Conscious of the potential harm posed by harsh chemicals, we meticulously avoided ingredients like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and parabens, known disruptors of the endocrine system. Our formulations are free from such additives, aligning with our commitment to clean ingredients.

We also wanted to eliminate unnecessary filler ingredients in favour of a more focused approach. Each ingredient was carefully chosen for its specific function, ensuring that every element serves a purpose in enhancing the overall product experience. What brings clarity to your life both professionally and personally? Taking walks in nature has become an important ritual for both of us, providing a sense of calm and clarity. Often in the early mornings or at sunset we take a walk on the rolling hills of Somerset, we are drawn to the mystical landscape of the land surrounding us. It has long been a source of inspiration for poets, artists, and seekers of spiritual enlightenment. It’s a unique area where we feel a connection to the earth and its ancient wisdom, and mysticism. What have been your biggest challenges to date and how did you overcome them? Launching a brand in Covid had its challenges and we had quite a few teething problems initially when we launched which proved costly to us. However, the reaction and positive reception we received from retailers like Harrods and SSENSE, and hospitality part-

“By envisioning our goals and desires, we can set into motion a process of attracting opportunities, and circumstances that align with our aspirations”

ners like Estelle Manor have been greatly valued. Knowing that there are people out there who resonate and support what we are doing has been a great validation.

Have you always listened to your gut and when were you most grateful to be able to have heard this? Yes, I’ve always trusted my gut instincts, and Commune is the perfect example of this. Before launching we, both had strong feelings and conviction that it was the right thing to do.

Gratitude is a gamechanger. How has this shown up in your life? Gratitude has been transformative in my life in numerous ways. It has shifted my perspective, allowing me to focus on the positives even in challenging situations. By cultivating gratitude, I've developed a deeper sense of contentment and fulfillment, appreciating the small joys that surround me each day. This mindset shift has improved my overall well-being, reduced stress and anxiety while increasing my resilience in the face of adversity. We also have a gratitude book at home with the kids so we can teach them to appreciate and cherish the small, simple things that enrich our lives. Do you believe in manifestation and the ability to create what you can visualize? Absolutely. I firmly believe in the power of manifestation and the ability to create what we can visualize. We work on visualization through mood boards both for our professional and personal lives which with Commune are all very intertwined being a husband and wife leading the business. By envisioning our goals and desires, we can set into motion a process of attracting opportunities, and circumstances that align with our aspirations.

Have you had any mentors on your journey and if so, what knowledge did they impart? Yes, I was fortunate to have a great CEO during most of my career in fashion who I worked alongside for years. Her guidance and wisdom has been invaluable, instilling in me the importance of leadership, strategic thinking and personal development. I am also fortunate to have close friends and family members who serve as mentors in different areas of my life. From providing emotional support to offering insights and advice, their perspectives have also contributed to my growth and development. What advice would you give to your younger self? To be present in the moment.

HEALTH HACKING

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

Jessica Sepel leads the way in harnessing the transformative power of supplements and vitamins to nourish your health and hack the body’s stress response with her science-focused wellness brand JSHealth

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? I always try to start my day on a calm and peaceful note. I don’t have much time…so it’s usually this: 20-minute workout (either yoga, Pilates or I go for a walk), 5-minutes deep belly breathing, coffee, and JSHealth breakfast and supplements. No social media (strictly!) until after my morning routine. As a nutritionist, what are the most common concerns and issues you are seeing with your clients today? These are consistent for many: stress/anxiety, sleep issues, hair loss, skin breakouts, and gut issues. Is there a buying pattern you’re noticing that customers in the Middle East are leaning towards? Ingestible beauty! These days, people are super aware of the connection between our internal health and how it manifests on the outside. In my opinion, ingestible beauty is where it’s at when it comes to clearer skin and stronger hair, when using quality ingredients at research-backed doses. This is where people really achieve results. How do you know if a product is working for you, and how long should one use a product to see results? With our targeted range, people report seeing results in 2-4 weeks. This is because of our quality ingredients and high-strength dosing which often equates to results in a supplement form. However, it’s important to note that individual results do vary. Being consistent with your supplement routine is key.

What are the ingredients we should be looking out for in supplement labels that help manage the body’s response to day-to-day stress? I personally love apoptogenic herbs for supporting the adrenal glands and stress response. So many of us are living busy (and stressful) lives and excess cortisol can wreak havoc on our bodies. We have an amazing Calm + De-Stress formula. Magnesium is also a must for the nervous system. Magnesium is growing in popularity, but it’s important to find the right magnesium…not

∙ Nutritious meals – think of what you can add to your meal to boost the nutritional profile

∙ Taking high-quality supplements

∙ Setting boundaries in your relationships

∙ Deep belly breathing – to quickly calm the nervous system

all magnesium formulas are created equal! You want to use a formula that has the right forms of magnesium (our Advanced Magnesium+ has three!) at the right dose.

In refining formulations, how do you cultivate for maximum efficacy? I carefully look at dosing, where the ingredients are sourced from and their forms, the highest manufacturing standards and how ingredients will work well together. It’s important for me to ensure the synergy is perfect. I also only work with ingredients that are backed by science – traditional use or scientific evidence. This is what sets our range apart. Beyond supplements, what should we be investing in when it comes to looking at long-term uplift in value to improving health – and which ones have you implemented in your life? These are all habits that drastically improve my wellbeing and the ones I truly follow daily:

∙ Reducing stress – the key to good health

∙ Prioritising quality sleep – the key to feeling energised

When your body feels off, what do you reach for to nourish yourself? When I’m feeling run-down, I have the same protocol:

∙ Focus on nutritious meals that include quality protein, nourishing fats and complex carbohydrates

∙ Manage my stress and sleep (through routines, supplementation, acupuncture, walking and overall doing less)

∙ Slow weekends to enjoy downtime

What does a “healthy body” mean to you? Healthy to me means balance, kindness and vitality.

This is The Body Issue – what are your nonnegotiable self and body care practices? My practices built the foundation of The Healthy Life (10+ years and counting later) – and are ones I still use to this day: 1. Speaking to myself and my body with kindness; 2. Daily gratitude (really feeling it from the heart); 3. Our Probiotic+, Advanced Magnesium+, and Fish Oil+ supplements as staples; 4. Twenty minutes of movement/exercise daily, chosen depending on how my body is feeling; 5. Seven to eight hours of sleep.

BODY

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

ESSENTIALS

Salt & Stone’s intentional feel-good formulations deliver a sense of escapism to everyday self-care rituals and routines

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

Dina ElShurafa, founder of Reform Athletica expands on how she’s created the luxury boutique fitness studio and where she’s taking it next

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? Emails, getting ready for work and coffee!

How did you know it was the right time to launch Reform Athletica - was there a pivotal moment that served as a catalyst? It was early 2016 when we decided to take the plunge. The fitness scene was still very young and the options for class-based studios other than traditional gyms were few and far between. We recognised the gap in the market and wanted to share and bring to Dubai a high-end luxury fitness experience for those interested in their wellness catered for all ages and all fitness levels. What lies at the core of Reform Athleticawhat inspired the DNA? The client - first and foremost. We are in the service industry and the client journey is at the heart of what we do. From the moment they enter, they need to feel valued, welcomed, seen and recognised. We want to empower our clients and take them on a journey that improves not just their physical fitness but their overall mental and holistic health.

The workout experience in the Jumeirah and ICD Brookfield Place studios is exceptional. How do you approach things differently? Quality control and excellent trainers. Our instructors go through rigorous training but also undergo on-going assessments to ensure they are delivering the best workouts to our clients. We also solicit client feedback at all times at every point of the customer journey to ensure we are delivering our very best to our clients. Taking on that feedback is pivotal to ensuring clients are happy and satisfied with their experience at RA.

How has the brand evolved and scaled and what has the reaction been like? As a homegrown brand, it is important to ensure our identity is always recognised. We have started off as a single studio to grow into a two-location business in Dubai with expansion plans looming in the horizon in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the wider Middle East. This could not have been possible without the support from our clients and their belief in our brand, our service and our training.

Reformer Pilates stands out as a core offering - tell us more about the various signature classes and its benefits to the body and overall, well-being. Whilst the Reform Method is our ‘hero’ class using the Lagree Megaformer, many don’t know about (or are hesitant to try) our other classes. My

SWEAT IN STYLE

personal favourite is the RA Strength class centred around the TRX. This class made me stronger and elevated my fitness to the next level! We also offer MicroForm, which is a hybrid HIIT class using the smaller Lagree machine, the Microform, combined with other disciplines like the TRX, weights and kettlebells. Lastly, we have a variety of yoga classes including deep stretch to complement a client’s fitness journey.

Can you define the inspiration behind the design of the studio and how does it appeal to the local culture and market? When we designed our first space in Jumeirah 1, we wanted to create a homey welcoming place filled with art from both local and international artists. We wanted to elevate the customer experience in all respects and create a luxurious setting in and outside of the workout studio. When we embarked on the launch of ICDBP, we enlisted the help of our friends TR Studio Architects in London to create a really special place for our clients. We also recognised the importance of maintaining that standard and TR Studio has done a fantastic job giving Jumeirah 1 the make-over it needed to bring it in line with our brand and image. Then comes the art, without which, it wouldn’t be the Reform Athletica you know today!

Sustainability is at the forefront for the brand – what practices within the studio have been implemented to drive this? As a plastic free studio verified by Oceanic Global, sustainability is at the heart of what we try to do. When we opened our doors in 2018 and decided not to sell any plastic bottled beverages, including water, people thought we were mad! Fast forward, five years and the plastic-free movement in the UAE is thriving. There is a real recognition of the real harm that the use of one-time plastic poses on our environment and we wanted to create a space that doesn’t contribute to such harm. We do not sell anything packaged in plastic and when we launched our juice bar, RAfresh, we made sure we sourced biodegradable packaging in order to align with our environmental standards. What has been the biggest challenge to date and how did you overcome it? Juggling two careers has been a personal highlight! But –with the support of my fantastic team on the ground it has been made possible.

Tell us about your fitness journey - what does your fitness routine look like? I started running 15 years ago and then stumbled upon Reform Pilates whilst on holiday and never looked back since. I try to mix it up, but it really does depend on my schedule with travel, but my non-negotiables are Reformer Pilates (1-2 times a week), strength training (2-3 times a week) and at least one, if not two, runs when I’m not training for a race. I also make sure I hit at least 10k steps a day. What do you avoid in terms of lifestyle to ensure you have a balanced, healthy body? I try to incorporate 10k steps a day, eight hours of sleep, healthy balanced meals, weightlifting/Pilates, two liters of water and getting out in the sun!

What’s next for Reform Athletica? We are working hard behind the scenes to grow our RA family in my home country of Saudi Arabia, maybe another branch in the UAE and considering the wider Middle East. This is The Body Issue – what are your nonnegotiable self and body care practices? Healthy body for a healthy mind so sleep, eat healthy food, and exercise.

The Dior Spa at The Lana, Dorchester in Dubai takes luxury to new heights with the best avant-garde treatments

THE INTERIOR

Dior inhabits the 29th floor of The Lanathe ultimate new address in Dubai, providing an unprecedented luxurious wellbeing experience among the clouds. For those who wish to take the dream even further, Dior Spa and The Lana have imagined an unforgettable full-day journey. The Spa is then revealed through five single cabins and one double suite. Each luxurious cocoon enjoys perfect privacy, with their own bathroom and a private space, for a moment of relaxation or private coaching. True bubbles of well-being encourage guests to unwind deeply, while enjoying astounding views of the Burj Khalifa. Every aesthetic choice promotes peace and tranquillity in a resolutely Dior spirit.

WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

mechanical exfoliation, to the Dior Stone Therapy D-Sculpt And Skin Cleansing through the HydraFacial technology.

THE INDULGENCE

Based on your needs this tranquil haven provides treatments ranging from the Icoone Therapy with cutting edge machines, The Iyashi Dôme technology which provides a sauna diffusing heat through infrared rays, the Dior Skin Light LED therapy mask, The Dior Micro-Abrasion is perfect for painless

THE BESPOKE

For those who wish to take the dream even further, Dior Spa and The Lana have imagined an unforgettable full-day journey. A driver collects the guest from their home, their hotel, or the airport in The Lana bespoke Rolls-Royce, and then drops them off at The Lana, to enjoy a fully tailor-made experience.

A Tranquil Haven

WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

SUMMER DISCIPLINE

Jackson Litchfield discusses wellness and carving out a summer body

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? The first 30 minutes of my day are easily the most im portant as they predictably put me in a peak state to serve. I lik to break it up into three compo nents spending ten minutes on each. It should be for the Soul, Spirit, Body and Mind. Overall, the sequence is very important as the first ten minutes are for the spirit and soul for priming, three minutes are to list what I’m grateful for, three minutes are for pure breath work to be in the present moment, then three minutes are for letting my imagination create what could happen if I was my best self. This 10 minutes is dedicated to giving my body the nutrients it needs to thrive, with protein and fats, bone broth and Sau erkraut for gut health and Sup plements which include Zinc, Multi, omega 3, curcumin, and PQQ for overall health. Then I go over all the technical side of my day ie clients programs, my training, education, recovery, and general matters to take care of. I generally prioritise the most critical tasks first and then work backwards. When energy is the highest, it makes sense to undertake the tasks that carry the most relevance. What is the daily schedule for you as a health coach? What do your training sessions consist of? I begin my day at 4am, with a morning ritual outline for one hour. Then my PT sessions take place from 5pm to 12pm, followed by training, studying, blog writing and content production until 3pm. I then schedule time in for an online PT check in or an in-person PT session. I end the day with some social interaction, meditation, prayer and

play from 6pm to 8pm. Overall the main theme is individualised programming and constant progress. With all clients I do bi-weekly check-ins to ensure that we are on track to achieve the results we are after whilst making the necessary changes to make it happen. I like to look at four main pillars when it comes to designing any regime, which include Body composition, Health markers, Mindset and cognitive function and Performance levels. Diet is an important part of any fitness routine – tell us about your overall diet? My diet at any one given time is typically reversed engineered to an outcome ie drop body fat, enhance ain function, increase energy and longevity foundations. I am always passionately experimenting with new protocols to see what works and perhaps discover new methods of eating that can lead to heightened esults. So as you can imagine that will slightly change how I distribute things like calories, macronutrients, micronutrients, and meal timings. My typical baseline looks like me having my first meal at 4:15am with bone broth, animal protein on rotation, Good fats on rotation, seasonal vegetables and Sauerkraut. My second meal is at 12pm and includes animal protein on rotation (large serving), good fats on rotation, seasonal vegetables and Sauerkraut. I then fast for the rest of the day. I like to eat early as I have found it highly complementary to bodies natural rhythms ie hormones, neurotransmitters and digestion, it also does wonders for sleep too. In addition, I classify light exposure as apart of my diet as it contributes towards the production and function

of energy within the body. So, I must add grounding and viewing sunlight at sunrise + sunset as a core staple in the entirety of it all.

With a busy schedule and always being on the go, how do you unwind on a daily basis? One of the things I’m grateful for is choosing a career that I’m passionate about. This makes it easier to embrace a busy schedule as I am working and living in accordance to my highest values. As I am organically energised and satiated on a soul level for the most part, I prioritse meditation and reading, which means I’m either looking to give the body time to connect and reset or I’m feeding the mind with new ideas and insights. What’s the biggest myth you’ve seen when it comes to exercising? Without question it would be thinking that results are achieved mostly from just hard work. I’ve seen countless amounts of people put in the hard yards day after day for years and get very little return. The best results are always at the intersect of a great strategy and hard work. If you increase one without the other, the outcome will most likely fall short of expectations. When thinking about progress, consider implementing an elaborate strategy and an elevated effort equally.

Cellular health plays a key role in optimal anti aging – tell us more. In a nutshell, Cells are the basic building blocks of the body. Our cells are programmed to divide, multiply, and then go on to perform basic biological functions that keep us healthy and alive across time. But over time the more cells divide, the older and more damaged they become. In turn, cells eventually lose their ability to regenerate and perform coherently within the body. The real genius is the race to understand what plausible interventions can actually impact the life of a cell and subsequently slow down the biological aging process (with some experts even suggesting we can reverse it) I am most definitely on the side of believing that we will inevitably be able to enhance and reverse aging via discoveries and advancements in cellular health. The areas that offer the most promise in my opinion are Cellular nutrition, Photobiomodulation, Quantum biology, Detoxification strategies, Water , Geographical locations and their properties.

Our modern lifestyle can drastically affect our posture – how does this work? Issues with posture these days are most likely the norm and not the exception. There are a few main reasons why this is the case. Alignment is probably the most predictable and easy to assume. This comes from sitting down all day which essentially shortens the hip flexors, brings the shoulders forward and sometimes even causes the next to tilt forward over time. The good news is posture can be restored faster than most people know. By using targeted strength training, precision stretching, a nutrient dense diet for bone, tendon, ligament formation, focused breath work or meditation and Vitamin D via sunlight can all help contribute to a better posture. Many people believe in calorie counting – what are your thoughts on this? There are many ways to unpack that question, so I’ll try come at it from a practical angle. The term calorie counting is generally referred to in relation to weight loss. For instance, most people by now are familiar with the “golden rule” which is, calories in vs calories out, where a tilt in either side of the equation will lead to weight loss or weight gain depending on the level of inputs. To begin with honouring an energy balance equation successfully will lead to weight loss and/or weight gain depending on what the person is looking to achieve. Many people believe that maintaining a calorie deficit boils down to nothing more than sheer willpower. If you’re disciplined enough, you’ll succeed; if you’re not, then you’re bound to fall off the wagon. However, nothing about this way of thinking takes into account the highly complex, beautifully intricate systems that our bodies operate on. It overlooks the many factors—both internal

and external—that influence our eating habits, energy levels, and overall health. Being unable to maintain a diet usually isn’t about a lack of desire or will. It’s not a personal failure . Instead, it’s often a sign that the approach might have been missing important elements of preparation and proper support. Weight loss, especially sustainable weight loss, isn’t a solo journey, and it isn’t a straightforward path. It requires a deeper understanding of your body’s needs, a recognition of the psychological aspects of eating, and, most importantly, an acknowledgment that sometimes, we need a bit more than a calorie counter app to get us through and lead us to success. The key isn’t only about focusing on eating less and moving more in a generic sense but about a whole-body approach that addresses our unique physical requirements, our environment, and our psychological well-being.

Building muscle takes immense discipline – tell us more. Building muscle definitely requires intense discipline with the addition of a well-formulated strategy. Building muscle goes way beyond just working hard in the gym. To give a basic insight, I believe there are three main phases to muscle building that require significant energy and preparation. The first part includes preperation where the body must be in a state of nourishment and good health in order to be ready to take on the stress of muscle building training. The second part includes a push where training must be performed at a high intensity with immaculate technical execution in order to create a successful response and the third part includes repair, where the body must be adequately rested and nourished in order to recover and be in a state to perform again at a higher level. This cycle is repeated over and over until ideal muscle mass is achieved. This is The Body Issue – what are your non-negotiable self and body care practices? The most important self-care practices include loving relationships, sunlight and grounding, a nutrient dense diet, prayer and meditation, movement and contributing to something greater than myself.

“The best results are always at the intersect of a great strategy and hard work”

“We embrace the principles of the autoimmune paleo diet, focusing

NOURISHING YOUR BODY

Jeff Zorn, founder of Nourishing, shares how he launched Dubai’s first true health food kitchen

WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? I wake up with the sunrise, grab a glass of water with a pinch of salt and then head out with our four poodles for a walk around the block. Once I’m back to the house, I jump on the treadmill for some quick cardio. I then prepare my Nourishing breakfast and two cups of black coffee (shout out to RAW Coffee) or Nourishing Bone Broth depending on how stressful my day is looking. I make it a point to delay picking up any technology at the start of the day. What inspired you to launch Nourishing? The inspiration behind Nourishing stems from my own health journey. Dealing with an autoimmune condition firsthand, called “weeping eczema”, which made me realise the transformative power of food and the folly of trying to treat the symptoms without addressing the root cause. I wanted to create a turnkey solution where individuals like myself could find healing through natural and nourishing meals. Thus, Nourishing Dubai was born, with a mission to empower others on their path to wellness through delicious, wholesome food. Talk us through the concept. At Nourishing, we’re more than just a kitchen; we’re a lifestyle. Our concept revolves around

crafting meals that not only satisfy the taste buds but also nourish the body from within. We embrace the principles of the autoimmune paleo diet, focusing on whole, unprocessed ingredients that support optimal health. Our menu is thoughtfully curated to cater to the various cultures in the UAE, ensuring that everyone can enjoy flavourful, nutrient-dense meals without compromise. How can a gluten-free diet positively affect your daily life? Eliminating gluten from your diet for 30 days is probably the most powerful single change you can make in your life, for your health and your body composition (ratio of lean mass to body fat). It can have profound effects on both physical and mental well-being. For many individuals, gluten can trigger inflammation, immune and digestive issues, hormone imbalances and even neurological symptoms. By eliminating gluten from their diet, people often experience a refund of energy from their immune system, improved digestion, and enhanced mental clarity as well as a reduction in excess body fat. It’s about reclaiming control over one’s health and thriving, rather than unquestioningly reaching for that piece of bread. Nourishing is not just about eating clean – it’s about living clean. Tell us more. Absolutely. At Nourishing, we believe that true wellness starts with the plate, but then extends beyond. It’s about cultivating a lifestyle that nurtures the body, mind, and soul. This means prioritising self-care, fostering meaningful connections, and embracing mindful practices. Our aim is to empower our clients to not only eat well but also live with intention, vitality, and joy. One of the main benefits of Nourishing is not just improved vitality to pursue what makes you happy, but also freeing up the time needed to engage fully in those activities. What are some of the most beloved dishes to try from the menu? Our menu is a celebration of vibrant flavours and nourishing ingredients. Some of our most cherished dishes include our famous Paleo Lasagna and Shepard’s Pie, our assortment of tacos made with our fresh gluten free tortillas, and last but not least, our insanely good GF & DF Chocolate Brownies which we give out at the end of every week. Each dish is crafted with love and care, subbing out inflammatory ingredients and then using only the highest

on whole, unprocessed ingredients that support optimal health”

“Good quality food not only becomes our physical bodies but also fuels our minds”

quality ingredients to deliver an experience that is equal to or better than the recipe we are emulating. How can good quality food positivly impact your body and mind? Quality food is the foundation of optimal health and well-being. By nourishing our bodies with wholesome, nutrient-dense ingredients, we provide the essential building blocks

for vitality and resilience. Good quality food not only becomes our physical bodies but also fuels our minds, supporting cognitive function, mood regulation, and overall mental clarity. It’s about honouring our bodies as temples and providing them with the nourishment they deserve.

Great meals start with the best ingredients – where do you source your ingredience from? At Nourishing, we take seriously the oath, “first, do no harm”. We remove a long list of foods that drive inflammation including gluten, industrial seed oils, dairy, GMOs, etc. We then invest in the highest quality ingredients possible. Whenever feasible, we prioritise locally-sourced, organic produce and sustainably-raised meats. By partnering with suppliers who share our commitment to quality and integrity, we ensure that every dish we serve is crafted with care and thoughtfulness.

Can food allergies and intolerances be accounted for during the programme? Absolutely. We understand that everyone’s dietary needs are unique, which is why we offer customizable meal plans tailored to accommodate food allergies, intolerances, and preferences. Whether it’s gluten, dairy, eggs, soy or any other dietary restriction, our team works closely with clients to ensure that their meals are not only safe but also delicious and satisfying. Our goal is to empower individuals to thrive on their wellness journey, one nourishing meal at a time.

This is The Body Issue – what are your non-negotiable self and body care practices?

Self-care is paramount to overall well-being, and I prioritise it in my daily life. This includes regular exercise, whether it’s a morning sunrise hike and breathing session or an evening walk in nature. I also prioritise quality sleep, stress management, and mindfulness practices to nourish my body, mind, and spirit. By investing in self-care, we can cultivate resilience, vitality, and inner peace, allowing us to show up as our best selves in every aspect of life.

We discuss gut health, the benefits of bone broth and building a brand with Hadil Al-Khatib, founder and CEO of The Broth Lab and a Certified Nutrition and Gut Health Coach

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

A Healing

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine – and how non-negotiable are these practices? Any routine I follow is non-negotiable because I am a person that appreciates a structured routine. I hate starting my day with a chaotic programme and it helps me mentally to follow through with what boosts my gut health and immunity, so here is my main routine which mainly revolves around:

HYDRATION UPON WAKING UP:

I prepare warm water with half a lemon squeeze mixed with a teaspoon of local bee pollen, Liposomal Vitamin C and a pinch of Himalayan Sea salt. Depending on my mood, I may add grated ginger. Then I add a hydrogen tablet to my second glass of water. I love the one by Cymbiotika. I warm up some bone broth – I love the bone marrow beef broth from The Broth Lab. Beef bone marrow is often considered one of the most nutritious components of bone broth due to its rich nutrient profile. So, it’s usually my go-to if I am not opting for the chicken one which is a powerhouse of collagen for my skin, hair and nails.

BONE BROTH ON AN EMPTY STOMACH: Whether it is Bone Marrow, Lamb or Chicken Bone Broth, it’s important to have it before you break your fast, on an empty stomach and before food for the following (backed-by research) reasons: 1. Gentle on Digestion: Consuming it on an empty stomach allows the broth to be quickly absorbed without competing with other foods in the

digestive tract. Also, The Broth Lab broth particularly is easy to digest and gentle on the stomach, making it an ideal option for those with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues. 2. Hydration: As I mentioned, hydration is crucial. So drinking bone broth on an empty stomach can help hydrate the body after a period of fasting (such as overnight). Proper hydration is essential for overall health and helps support various bodily functions, including digestion and metabolism. Thanks to it being high in minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, which are crucial for bone health, muscle function, not just electrolyte balance. 3. Nutrient Absorption: This is so important! Consuming the broth on an empty stomach allows for better absorption of its nutrients. Without other foods present in the digestive tract, the nutrients in the broth can be more readily absorbed by the body, providing a quick boost of essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. 4. Gut Health: My specialty – everything that heals and seals the gut, pass it my way! I practise what I preach! So not only does the broth contains compounds like gelatin and glycine, which can help support gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and repairing the

intestinal lining, consuming it on an empty stomach allows these beneficial compounds to exert their effects more directly on the digestive system – believe me you want that!

5. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The way The Broth Lab is long slow simmered the ancestral way, offers it a high healing ability – how? The Broth Lab broths contains antiinflammatory compounds such as collagen and amino acids, fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A, D, E, and K, which play important roles in immune function, bone health, and overall well-being but also the fresh vegetables and herbs included like lemongrass, star anise, thyme, oregano and many others which can help reduce inflammation in the gut and throughout the body. Consuming it on an empty stomach may enhance its anti-inflammatory effects by allowing for better absorption and utilisation of these compounds. Also worth mentioning that the broth contains unique nutrients such as phospholipids and growth factors that support cellular health and regeneration. Overall, if there is one thing a person has to choose to stick to every morning, it should be broth. Consuming it as a morning routine is a beneficial practice for supporting digestion, hydration, nutrient absorption, gut health, and inflammation reduction.

FIBER- COLOURFUL BREAKFAST:

Once I’m done sipping it, I prepare my breakfast which is always fiber rich, and with healthy fat to promote healthy metabolism and digestion.

CAFFEINE LATER:

I always avoid caffeine first thing as it is a gut lining irritation and causes acid reflux to many those with IBS issues especially if it’s taken on an empty stomach. Also, having caffeine later in the day rather than early in the morning is important for several reasons:

1. Circadian Rhythm: Our bodies naturally produce cortisol, a hormone that helps us wake up and feel alert, in the early morning. Consuming caffeine during this time

FORCE

can interfere with the body’s natural cortisol production and disrupt the circadian rhythm, potentially leading to dependency on caffeine to wake up. 2. Tolerance Build-Up: Regular consumption of caffeine can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. By limiting caffeine intake to later in the day, you can help prevent tolerance build-up and maintain sensitivity to its effects when needed. 3. Natural Energy Levels: Consuming caffeine later in the day after your breakfast with an hour or two allows you to harness its stimulant effects when your natural energy levels may be lower, such as during the mid-afternoon slump. This can help boost alertness and productivity without interfering with your body’s natural wakefulness and sleep cycles. 4. Hydration: Opting for caffeine later in the day allows you to prioritise hydration in the morning by starting your day with water and broth. Hydration is essential for overall health and is not to be underestimated for cognitive function, digestion, and metabolism.

So, what’s the alternative if I need my caffeine fix? I am a mother, so I get it too, we sometimes need something to slap us in the face and push us through the day, I…

CATCH A MATCHA INSTEAD:

I am a matcha lover, hence why I launched Catcha Matcha, so I personally prefer it over coffee. I add a teaspoon of Catcha Matcha to frothy or iced coconut milk with cinnamon and I love adding organic MCT oil to bullet proof it. Why? 1. Sustained Energy: Matcha provides a more stable and sustained energy boost compared to coffee, thanks to its combination of caffeine and L-theanine, which promotes alertness without the jitters or energy crashes often associated with coffee. 2. Antioxidant Power: Matcha is packed with antioxidants, particularly catechins, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. In fact, matcha contains higher levels of antioxidants than most other green teas, making it a potent ally in combating oxidative stress and inflammation. 3.

Nutrient Density: As a certified Nutrition and Gut Health Coach, I love incorporating easy ways to nourish my body – Matcha is rich in vitamins, minerals, and chlorophyll, as it involves consuming the whole powdered tea leaf. This means you’re getting a concentrated dose of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and E, as well as potassium, calcium, and fiber, which coffee lacks. 4. Enhanced Calmness: I run three concepts and two beautiful yet active kids at home, three if you count my husband really. The L-theanine in matcha promotes a sense of calmness and relaxation alongside its stimulating effects, leading to a more balanced and focused state of mind compared to the jittery, anxious feeling that

coffee can sometimes induce. 5. Gut Health: Of course! I have to add the healing gut element here, Matcha contains beneficial compounds that support gut health, such as EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which has been shown to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improve digestion. 6. Weight Management: Did you also know that Matcha may aid in weight management due to its metabolism-boosting effects and potential ability to promote fat oxidation. Additionally, its low-calorie content makes it a great option for those looking to reduce calorie intake. It’s five calories!

Overall, while both matcha and coffee have their merits, matcha offers a unique combination of sustained energy, antioxidant power, nutrient density, and calming effects that make it a healthier and more balanced choice for many individuals. I may have focused on the nutritional side of my morning routine, but other non-negotiables are mindful movement – expose my face to the sun – by looking directly into it either through my walk or whilst deep stretching outside – or simply opening my window and looking outside in the first 20 minutes of waking up. Please do write your intentions for the day. It could be part of journaling or simply jotting bullet points of how you want your day to be. It’s game changing! How did you know it was the right time to launch The Broth Lab and what were the core pillars of the brand that differentiated it from the outset? Sometimes you just feel it in your gut – honestly everything was working against not launching but I thought, what better time for people to invest in their health but covid as so it was the broth lab? Hence a covid baby was officially simmered to life. How much do you rely on analytics and how much on gut feel when it comes to innovation? I do believe balance is essential. We do rely on consumer preferences and needs, performance metrics and A/B testing but relaying on gut feel, trusting the intuition and experience of the team and encourage

the head chefs to experiment with new ingredients and recipes based on their creativity for example is crucial. We started creating trends in the world of broth and health. What is the biggest risk you’ve ever taken, and what was the tipping point of it pay off?

Launching the broth lab during covid! Look at us now expanding beyond the UAE. What are the benefits of bone broth and how should we incorporate this into our diet?

The Broth Lab has gained popularity as a nutrient-rich addition to a healthy diet in the UAE. It’s called liquid gold for so many reasons, I can go on all day, here are my top seven benefits and seven uses: 1. Rich in Nutrients: Collagen and Gelatin – These proteins are beneficial for joint health, skin elasticity, and gut lining integrity. Minerals – contains calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, which are crucial for bone and dental health. Amino Acids – Provides essential amino acids like glycine and proline that support overall body function and muscle repair. 2. Supports Gut Health: The Gelatin: Helps repair the gut lining, which can improve conditions like leaky gut syndrome – Easy to Digest: Bone broth is gentle on the digestive system, making it suitable for people with sensitive stomachs. 3. Immune System Boost: Amino Acids and Minerals: Contribute to a stronger immune system, potentially helping to ward off infections and illnesses. 4. Joint Health: The Collagen supports joint health and can alleviate symptoms of arthritis and joint pain by providing the building blocks for cartilage repair. 5. Hydration and Electrolyte Balance: Ditch the artificial Electrolytes that causes kidney stones: Bone broth contains sodium, potassium, and magnesium, helping to maintain proper hydration and electrolyte balance. 6. Weight Management: Low in Calories: it is low in calories yet nutrient-dense, making it a good option for those looking to manage their weight. Satiety – Also the high protein content can help increase feelings of fullness. 7. Comfort food – the feeling that is like a hug in a mug – it’s hard to explain that sense of coziness.

There are endless ways to incorporate Bone Broth into Your Diet, my favourite, of course, is as a beverage 1. Sipping it as we explained earlier as a warm cup of bone broth as a snack or first thing in the morning for a nutrient boost. 2. Soup Base: Use bone broth

“Proper hydration is essential for overall health and helps support various bodily functions, including digestion and metabolism”

as a base for soups and stews to add depth of flavour and nutritional value. 3. Cooking Liquid: Substitute water or other cooking liquids with bone broth in recipes like rice, quinoa, or pasta to enhance flavour and nutrient content. 4. Smoothies: For a savoury twist, add cooled bone broth to your smoothies. 5. Sauteing Vegetables: Use bone broth instead of oil to sauté vegetables, which adds flavour and cuts down on calories. 6. Gravy and Sauces: Incorporate bone broth into gravies and sauces for a richer taste. 7. Freezing for Later Use: Freeze bone broth in ice cube trays and use the cubes to add to recipes as needed. The Broth Lab lasts one year (12 months) in the freezer – nature’s way of preserving as we add no additives nor any preservatives and is only five days in the fridge. What are the main causes of gut issues and how does this show up in the body?

MAIN CAUSES OF GUT ISSUES

1. Poor Diet / High Sugar and Processed Foods: These disrupt the balance of gut bacteria and promote the growth of harmful bacteria. Additionally, Low Fiber Intake, if you recall I mentioned my breakfast is always high fiber as fiber is essential for maintaining healthy gut flora and regular bowel movements. 2. Chronic Stress: can negatively impact digestion by altering gut motility and increasing inflammation. 3. Infections: Bacterial, Viral, and Parasitic Infections: These can cause acute or chronic gut inflammation and disrupt normal gut function. 4. Antibiotic Use: This is a topic on its own! Antibiotics can kill beneficial gut bacteria, leading to an imbalance known as dysbiosis. 5. Food Intolerances and Allergies: Common culprits include lactose, eggs, gluten, and additives which can cause inflammation and digestive discomfort. 6. Lack of Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps maintain healthy gut motility and a balanced microbiome. 7. Hydration: I can’t stop talking about how important this is! Inadequate water intake can lead to constipation and other digestive issues. 8. Sleep Deprivation: Poor sleep can affect the gut microbiome and overall digestive health. And so many other reasons like smoking and alcohol along other habits that can irritate the gut lining and disrupt the balance of gut bacteria.

SYMPTOMS OF GUT ISSUES

Gut issues can present in a variety of ways, affecting different systems in the body: 1. Digestive Symptoms: Bloating, Diarrhea or Constipation: Changes in bowel habits, frequency, and consistency, Abdominal Pain and Cramping, Heartburn and Acid Reflux, Nausea and Vomiting. 2. Systemic Symptoms: Fatigue, Weight Changes, Skin Issues, Joint Pain as Inflammation from gut issues can spread to joints. Mood Disorders:

“Understanding and addressing the root causes of gut issues can significantly improve overall health and well-being”

informed decision-making. Whether navigating entrepreneurial challenges or promoting gut health, paying attention to those inner signals can lead to more authentic and successful outcomes.

Anxiety and depression can be influenced by gut health, often referred to as the gut-brain axis. 3. Immune System Issues: Frequent Infections: An imbalanced gut can weaken the immune system, leading to more frequent colds and infections. Autoimmune Conditions: There is a growing body of evidence linking gut health to autoimmune diseases. 4. Nutritional Deficiencies: Anemia, Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies. Understanding and addressing the root causes of gut issues can significantly improve overall health and well-being. This is why I am in holistic health – digging deep into the cause avoids suppressing symptoms – long relief over short lived effects always! You were recently featured on Shark Tank – can you share more on this experience? I cannot share too much as I’m tied to a confidentiality agreement but if you are a startup or an SME in the UAE and reading this – apply and take part!

What brings clarity to your life both professionally and personally? Purpose. Witnessing how my healthy concepts are changing lives has changed my life.

What have been your biggest challenges to date? Childhood trauma, a health crisis, postpartum blues, an identity struggle and imposter syndrome.

If you had to pick one, what is the best tool for combating negativity and leading a life focused on positivity? It helps to set a remember that nothing in life is personal and that everyone is battling their own story. Have you always listened to your gut and when were you most grateful to be able to have heard this? I’ve only started to feel this as my gut health got stronger. As a serialentrepreneur and a gut health coach, I’ve found that listening to my gut—both literally and metaphorically—has been crucial in my journey. Trusting my instincts has often guided me through pivotal decisions and challenges. Listening to your gut, both in business and health, can be a powerful tool. It requires a balance of intuition and

The moment I’m most grateful for having listened to my gut occurred during a major business expansion. We were considering a significant investment to scale our operations. Despite favourable financial projections and market analysis, something felt off about the timing. I couldn’t pinpoint it through logic alone, but my gut was telling me to hold off. This hesitation allowed us to notice emerging market trends that we hadn’t fully accounted for. By waiting, we adjusted our strategy, leading to a much more successful and sustainable expansion later on. This experience reinforced my trust in intuition, especially when combined with data and thorough analysis.

Gratitude is a gamechanger. How has this shown up in your life? It got me to where I am today.

Do you believe in manifestation and the ability to create what you can visualize? Absolutely, I believe in the power of manifestation and the ability to create what you can visualize. While it’s not about simply wishing for things to happen, manifestation involves setting clear intentions, aligning your actions with those intentions, and maintaining a positive mindset. When you visualize your goals and aspirations, you’re essentially programming your subconscious mind to work towards them, leading to focused action and increased opportunities for success. I wished for The Broth Lab to be a reality, I believed it, I dreamt it but I also sipped it and lived by it then worked towards it becoming a reality. By cultivating a belief in your own ability but also, taking consistent steps towards your goals, you can harness the power of manifestation to bring your dreams into reality. This is how we heal. Have you had any mentors on your journey and if so, what knowledge did they impart? Mentorship has been instrumental in my journey. The guidance, wisdom, and support of my mentors have helped me navigate challenges, expand my knowledge, and grow both personally and professionally. I am deeply grateful for their mentorship and strive to pay it forward by mentoring others on their own journeys. Remember even coaches need a coach. What advice would you give to your younger self? Drink more broth – health is true wealth.

BODY TALK

A controversial weight-loss medication GLP-1 (the main ingredient of Ozempic) raises huge questions on the long-term effects and who should be taking it. Industry experts weigh in on its implications and why an informed approach is key

THE DETAILS - ON GLP-1

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1) medications are on the rise and have controversially garnered attention by those seeking rapid and dramatic weight loss. Developed to manage Type 2 diabetes, it lowers blood sugar levels and reduces potential heart attack risks in adults. As a slimming cure/ weight loss remedy, the medication works by mimicking the action of GLP-1, a naturally occurring hormone, to effectively suppress the appetite and delay digestion process.

“One of the ways that GLP-1 receptor agonists work to reduce weight is by slowing gastric emptying which may increase the risk of vomiting and aspirating food during anaesthesia. Severe gastric problems can also occur with recent studies that have found an increase in risk for pancreatitis, intestinal obstruction and gastroparesis when taking GLP-1 receptor agonists,” says Dr Ruhil Badiani, Family Physician at Cornerstone Clinic.

THE IMPLICATIONS

With its widespread adoption, it’s important to arm yourself with guided knowledge of its side effects, particularly for women. Dr. Mahadevan, Ayurvedic Physician at Wellth says, “Women who engage in crash diets frequently have amenorrhoea, which is the absence of periods for more than three months as a result of severe weight loss and starvation.”

“One of the most noticeable adverse effects for women who follow ‘fad diets’ (or use weight-loss injectables in this case) without obtaining appropriate guidance from professionals is an aged face. Rapid weight loss can cause the skin on the face to sag and wrinkles to appear as well as have a hollowed out or gaunt appearance,” shares Dr Badiani.

HIGH AND LOW: HIGH RISKS AND DISCONTINUATION RATES, LOW SUPPLY

When it comes to weight loss, there are no hard and fast rules. Administering these injectables for weight loss exposes users to risks that come with inherent dangers without any lifestyle changes.

“Successful weight management with GLP-1 medications requires supervision by a team of doctors, lifestyle coaches, and dieticians who can help titrate the medication correctly and ensure proper diet and exercise,” says Zeina Abdalla, meta[bolic] & Zone.Health Co-Founder. “Abruptly stopping the medication without this support can lead to weight regain. Additionally, patients who do not incorporate strength training into their routine may experience muscle mass loss.”

Additionally, the rise of this injectable appetite suppressant leads to misuse and supply problems for patients who need it for its intended purpose. Dr Badiani expresses, “Unfortunately, their popularity is causing a shortage in stocks of the medications which can be detrimental to those that require it for treatment of Type 2 diabetes.”

SLOW AND STEADY: SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVES

Instead of looking for shortcuts, one should take considered steps to achieving and maintaining your ideal body goals. A holistic approach and non-invasive options are beneficial over time. Dr. Mahadevan, recommends harnessing the power of Ayurveda to manage your weight. “The ancient Ayurvedic traditions state that being overweight is a result of an innate excess in kapha dosha. Although there may be other factors contributing to the struggles with being overweight, kapha is undoubtedly a significant one,” he says. “By using the knowledge of Ayurveda to manage your weight, you can avoid starving yourself or unnecessarily limiting the range of foods you can eat, as well as failing to focus on quick fixes that won’t work in the long run. You won’t shed a few kilos rapidly only to regain them later. Instead, you will take a clear, sustainable, and time-tested approach to good health that is customised as per your body type. While you may need to practice discipline at first, it won’t be long before the body’s natural intelligence returns, replacing unhealthy cravings with more balanced urges.”

Alternatively, Abdalla suggests, “Integrating technology and apps can also provide valuable support and motivation on the journey to a healthier lifestyle. Using tools like the Oura ring for managing sleep, fitness tracking and stress, and a CGM for monitoring blood sugar levels, can help women gain a better understanding of their bodies by analysing the data.”

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

The Body’s Truth

We discuss how the body holds thoughts and memories in our nervous system and what to do if any of these are impacting our lives using Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) with

RTT founder, Marisa Peer

What does the body hold in our nervous system related to past experiences? Our bodies are vessels that store every memory, feeling, and sensation we experience deep down in our nervous system. They shape who we are, our view of the world, our perceptions, behaviours, and even our physical health. For example, think about a moment when you felt really happy – it floods your body with warmth and joy. Now, contrast that with remembering the pain of a past trauma and watch how your body may instantly tense, and that leaves you feeling anxious or stressed. Understanding this mind-body connection is the key to helping us let go, heal, and regain the power to flip the script, rewrite our story, and live the life we want and deserve. Is it possible we sometimes do not remember these experiences? Our minds are like a storage vault for our memories – some are easy to access, but others are so deeply buried that we might not be able to consciously recall them in our day-to-day lives. These buried memories, particularly those that are traumatic or emotionally charged, can influence how we feel and act without us even being aware of it. For example, if you have ever found yourself ‘triggered’ or reacting strongly to a situation, but you can’t quite put your finger on why you’ve experienced such a strong response, your subconscious mind holds the answers!

This is why therapies like RTT are so effective because they directly access the subconscious mind to help you discover the

root cause of the things that may be holding you back or keeping you stuck in life. It’s like shining a light into the depths of our minds and uncovering pieces of our story that we had forgotten were there. While we might not always consciously remember every detail of our past experiences, they can still shape who we are today but acknowledging them, viewing them objectively and reframing them is the key to developing a deeper understanding of ourselves and our emotions to help us move forward.

How does RTT help support a healthy nervous system? RTT is like a gentle conductor for our nervous system – it helps bring harmony to our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours by getting to the root cause of the problem holding us back, reframing it, and then rewiring the mind to adopt better hab-

its of experiences and action to help us move forward. By identifying and reshaping old patterns and beliefs, RTT can reduce stress, ease anxiety, and bring back a sense of peace and balance because when our nervous sys tem is balanced, we feel calm and centered, but when it’s out of sync, we feel stressed or anxious. However, RTT isn’t just about calming our nerves. It is also about building a better understanding and relationship with ourselves—fostering resilience and emotion al well-being and uncovering our full poten tial so that we can live our very best lives. How does what is held in our body show up in behaviour or experiences in our life if we do not heal this? When we hold on to negative thoughts, feelings, emotions, fears, or pain, they often manifest in repeated patterns of behaviour, recurring experiences in our lives, or even as physical health issues. It’s like the quote says “The sorrow which has no vent in tears may make other organs weap”, Henry Maudsley – if there is no sense of release –they present in life in other ways. For exam ple, unresolved feelings of inadequacy might lead to self-sabotage or difficulty in forming meaningful relationships. Similarly, unad dressed trauma can manifest as anxiety, de pression, or chronic health conditions.

Unaddressed feelings of inadequacy can also lead to stress eating, stress drinking, and anger or resentment. Our feelings are the most real thing we have. We must feel them until they no longer require feeling. We can’t eat them, drink them, shop them, medicate them, or even ignore them, as when we do, they simply regroup and become stronger.

Essentially, when we don’t heal what’s held in our bodies, these unresolved issues can cast a shadow over our lives, holding us back from experiencing true joy, fulfillment, and connection. It’s like carrying around a heavy burden that weighs us down and prevents us from living our best lives.

That’s why it’s so important to address these inner wounds and release the emotional baggage we’ve been carrying. By doing so, we free ourselves from the grip of the past and open the door to a future filled with possibility, growth, and authentic happiness. What other work can we do to support our body’s healing and nervous system? There are many ways we can support our body’s healing and nervous system and improve our overall well-being: Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness practices and meditation can help calm the nervous system, reduce stress, promote relaxation, and help you to listen and connect to your feelings. Self-Care Practices: Start prioritising time for regular self-care activities – spend time in nature,

h the body, mind, and soul and boost overall well-being and healing. Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity not only benefits our physical health but also supports our mental and emotional wellbeing – as exercise releases endorphins, which can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins provides our bodies with the essential nutrients needed for our wellbeing. Avoid excessive caffeine, sugar, and processed foods, as these can lower energy levels and mood. Quality Sleep: Establishing a consistent sleep routine and creating a calming bedtime environment can support our nervous system and emotional balance. How do thoughts and memories relate to the health of our bodies? Our thoughts and memories shape the health of our bodies in profound ways. For example, when we ex-

es, and finding healthy ways to cope with stress, we’re not just taking care of our minds – we’re taking care of our bodies too. You outline we should not associate with our illnesses or issues – can you expand on this? The language we use to describe our experiences has a profound impact on how we feel and behave, as our thoughts and language shape our reality. When we constantly align ourselves with illnesses or negative issues, we einforce a sense of identity around them and make it harder to overcome them. So, pay attention to the language you use and how it affects your mindset. For example ‘my’ is an ownership word, thus referring to struggles with anxiety as my anximy terrible digestion, my breakouts means you are aking ownership over it – when no one wants to own anxiety! The key here is to shift the focus away from identifying with the problem and instead focus on the solutions that empower us to take oactive steps towards healing and transformation. So rather than saying, “I am depressed,” try saying, “I am experiencing feelings of sadness.” This subtle shift acknowledges the temporary nature of our emotions and opens the door to exploring trategies for managing them and say the stress, not my stress. Ultimately, by detaching our sense of identity from illnesses or issues, we free ourselves to embrace a more empowering narrative – one where we are the authors of our own healing journey. This is The Body Issue – what is the kindest thing we can do to our body for a feeling of peace? The kindest thing we can do for our bodies is to love them just the way they are and offer ourselves the gift of self-compassion because in a world that often presents unrealistic ideals, images of perfection and messages about always striving to work harder and be better, it’s easy to overlook the importance of being gentle and kind to ourselves. Think of self-compassion as treating ourselves with the same kindness, understanding, and support that we would offer to a dear friend in need. It means acknowledging our imperfections and shortcomings with warmth and acceptance rather than harsh judgment or criticism.

Practicing self-compassion can take many forms, from mindfulness and self-care to speaking more kindly to ourselves and setting healthy boundaries. It is about prioritising our well-being and honouring our needs, whether that means taking time for rest and relaxation, engaging in activities that bring us joy, or seeking support when we need it. But by extending this compassion and kindness to ourselves, we create a nurturing inner world that fosters feelings of peace, contentment, and resilience and when we’re at peace with ourselves, we’re better equipped to navigate life’s challenges with grace and ease, knowing that we have our own best interests at heart.

perience stress or worry, it’s like our bodies hit the panic button, releasing hormones that can affect everything from our heart to our digestion – this is because every thought we think creates a physical reaction and an emotional response in our bodies. So, when we bask in feelings of joy, gratitude, or love, it is like a warm hug for our bodies, and those feel-good vibes trigger a cascade of happy hormones that help us relax, reduce stress, and even boost our immune system. Just think about the placebo effect – it’s proof that our beliefs can actually influence our body’s ability to heal itself. So, by nurturing positive thoughts, processing past experienc-

Finally, remember your body is the most priceless, mind-boggling thing you will ever own, and when you start to love it and appreciate it, it will become more lovable to you.

“Practicing self-compassion can take many forms from mindfulness and self-care to speaking more kindly to ourselves and setting healthy boundaries”

BEATING BURNOUT

Dr Gurveen Ranger, Clinical Psychologist, Lead for Corporate Wellbeing and Adult Mental Health at Sage Clinics, on recognising the signs of career burnout

What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine? The first 30 minutes of my day involves hitting the snooze button a couple of times, so I get up gradually. I try to start the day mindfully – so I avoid looking at my phone until I have left the house and focus on getting ready. Half the week I start work a little later, so I start my day with some form of exercise at home, and I find I have a bit more energy for the rest of the day. Talk us through you career. I decided I wanted to be a psychologist when I was about 16 years old, doing my college A Level in Psychology. Prior to this I knew nothing about it and thought I was going to be a journalist! Learning about the psychological theories got me hooked on the subject, and I found it fascinating learning about how the brain and our minds can work. This, coupled with a desire to help people meant it was the perfect career for me to pursue and find meaning in. After my undergraduate degree in Psychology, I worked in various NHS establishments in the UK, gaining experience in the mental health field so I could eventually pursue the doctoral clinical psychology training. I have always loved to be challenged, and so after several years working post doctorate in a service for people with severe and enduring mental health difficulties, I decided the next challenge was to move here to the UAE and be part of establishing a new clinic - in a region where narratives around mental health are progressing but still in their relative infancy. I have enjoyed the work we are doing to raise awareness

about mental health and have ended up specialising in corporate wellbeing, recognising the significant need for this in the UAE. What are the key symptoms of a career burnout? Career burnout means emotional, physical and mental exhaustion from prolonged stress or dissatisfaction in your career. The key signs include physical exhaustion, where you may notice you feel exhausted, no matter how much sleep you get, and emotional exhaustion, which leaves you feeling overwhelmed, cynical, and detached from your work and colleagues. You may notice a feeling of dread when you wake in the morning which lingers throughout the day. Thirdly, mental exhaustion where you may notice a decline in cognitive abilities, including memory and concentration, increased absenteeism that leads to burnout along with an increase in sick days and a decrease in productivity and lastly decreased motivation, where burnout can lead to a lack of enthusiasm and interest in work, which can impact your performance. You may notice getting less of a sense of achievement in your work, or feel like you are not good enough regardless of your actual accomplishments and therefore feel less inclined to put the work in. How is the mind and body interconnected – can stress lead to adverse affects in the body? Absolutely, there is a lot of research on the impact of stress on the body. When we are stressed, we are often in fight or flight mode – our threat response, and the brain releases more stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline to help the body deal with the stressor. Whilst helpful in a dangerous situation, when it is activated frequently by chronic stressors we start to see an impact on the body. Such impact includes headaches, muscle tension and soreness, digestive issues, and overall weakened immune function to name a few. There is also an impact on

WORDS:

SARAH JOSEPH

“Healthy boundaries also help us feel more fulfilled – by only taking on what we have capacity to do”

our sleep, concentration, and our emotions – for example heightened anxiety, and our emotions are experienced physically in our bodies. A little more indirectly when we are stressed, we tend to engage in less self-care, so our diet may change, we may exercise less, and this will have an impact on our bodies too. So, when I work with clients on stress management, we look at it from both psychological and physiological perspectives. What’s the best technique to regulate during a stressful situation? During a specific stressful situation grounding can be really helpful in the moment. This might be focusing on your five senses (the 54321 exercise is good – name in your mind five things you can see around you, four things you can touch – really feel them, three things you can hear, two things you can smell and 1 thing you can taste). This helps us “drop and anchor” and get present in a moment when our thoughts and emotions may be overwhelming and racing. Deep breathing is also a good in-themoment strategy, as our breathing is often dysregulated during the threat response. Breathing in to a count of four and out to a count of six is a good way to do this, and ensure your abdomen is moving more than your chest – so you know you are taking a good, full breath. You can place one hand on your stomach and one hand on your chest as you breathe to help determine this. More broadly, meditative exercises can be helpful to practice regularly to manage stress. Mindfulness meditation and relaxation meditation are a couple of ways of doing this and you can typically find good audios or scripts online. How important is it to set healthy boundaries at work? It is essential to set healthy boundaries at work to ensure a healthy work/life balance and prevent burnout. When we don’t have healthy boundaries, we often feel overwhelmed, resentful, and frustrated. Healthy boundaries also help us feel more fulfilled – by only taking on what we have capacity to do, we end up feeling more motivated and satisfied, as we are able to give full attention to what we are doing – so you end up focusing on quality of work rather than purely quantity of output where we feel like we are working hard never achieving anything that feels “good enough.”

What are some of the top selfcare practices that can be incorporated in our busy schedules? Protect break times – block this time in your diary, even if it is only 30 minutes. We often tell ourselves we don’t have time, but research in-

mental health? Impostor syndrome, whilst not a ‘clinical’ diagnosis is so common in all walks of life, and I see it a lot in my corporate clients. No matter how successful they are or how much they have achieved, there is this pervasive self-doubt – questioning their accomplishments, skills and talents and this persistent fear of being “found out” to be a fraud or not good enough. I often see this in new mums too. This pulls us into overworking, comparing themselves to others, and downplaying achievements. Understandably, this can impact our mental health, and often co-exists alongside depression or anxiety for example. This then becomes self-perpetuating, as the more we believe we are not good enough, the more we dismiss positive feedback, avoid things, or self-criticise for making mistakes, and this then further impacts our mood and anxiety levels.

dicates we are actually more productive when we take breaks. If you can, move away from your desk for your break. Start and leave work on time as much as possible – I know many people who use their morning commute to catch up on emails, which means they are often in ‘threat mode’ before they even get to work. Using this time to be more mindful – focusing on surroundings or listening to something like a podcast or music can help us start the day in a more grounded way. Same for after work – hide away your laptop so it is out of sight and plan something else – relaxing, social, or active! If you absolutely have to check emails in the evenings, set limits on when and how often you do this. Aim for a routine as schedules may be very busy, having a regular sleep/ wake time can be really helpful for our wellbeing, alongside regular balanced meals. It may not be possible to get to a gym multiple times a week when you are so busy but a short walk or a 20-minute home workout are also great – anything to kick start the endorphins. Connect to others – colleagues, friends and family members, social connection can go a long way for stress management. If you are short on time you could combine – so meet a friend but go for a walk or activity together so you are socialising and getting some exercise in at the same time. Lastly, stress management techniques are important – as mentioned before, learning to be more mindful is a key way of managing stress. Alongside this, relaxation strategies as well as engaging in leisure activities as mentioned above are all key parts of stress management. If you are noticing the signs of stress or burnout and would like some help in managing this, I would recommend speaking to a therapist. Many employees are navigating through the imposter syndrome – how can this affect our

When should one seek for help during their career? As early as possible. This way, you can access timely intervention which prevents the symptoms escalating into more chronic stress type difficulties and burnout. It also means you can catch certain unhelpful coping mechanisms like avoidance or overworking before they start to exacerbate the cycle of how you are feeling, and before they contribute to feeling disconnected from your career. This is The Body Issue – what are your nonnegotiable self and body care practices? Sleep! This is my number one rule. I know whenever I have a bad night’s sleep or have gone to sleep too late the knock-on effect on my concentration, mood, and productivity the next day is huge. I had to teach myself to reduce how much time I spent on my phone in the evenings, which was hard, but I got there eventually. Now I have a specific wind down routine, and screens are put away at least 30 minutes before I go to sleep. A balanced diet is important too. I have had to train myself on this too but having a routine where I prep everything in the evening and enough for a few days at a time has really helped, as the more stressed I am my default is convenience rather than nutrition, as is the case for many. Within this, I have also learned not to restrict anything, as actually that often leaves us feeling more stressed! Balance is key. It’s important to get regular health check-ups. I used to be someone who would dismiss symptoms and tell myself I didn’t have time to go for check-ups especially when I am too busy or stressed. But making time for this is not only essential from a health point of view, but also showing ourselves that we are worthy of self-care. When I work with clients who are coming for heightened anxiety or stress, I always recommend a routine physical health check-up if they haven’t had one for a long time, before we assume something like tiredness is solely related to stress, for example.

The Beauty Shelf

Nadia Zaal, founder and CEO of ZAYA, shares her hero beauty buys

Scalp Stimulator – Jade

Dhs255 Lanshin

I like to use this because it feels like a soothing massage for my scalp, promoting relaxation and healthier hair growth.

GOOPGLOW Restore + Shine

Hair Serum Dhs240 Goop

I enjoy using this product because it transforms my hair, leaving it glossy, manageable, and free from frizz with its nourishing natural oils.

Celestial Black Diamond Eye

Masks Pack of 8 Dhs395 111Skin

This is my go-to for refreshing tired eyes. It reduces puffiness, and brightens dark circles, giving me a well-rested look.

COMPILED BY: JOELLE ALBEAINO

Kinesiology Tape for face Dhs56

CureTape Beauty

I like using this gentle face tape for it gives me a lifted and youthful appearance without any invasive measures, helping me feel confident and radiant.

Pink Lady’s Slipper Shimmer

Dhs117 Living Libations

I adore using this as it adds a subtle yet stunning shimmer to my lips and cheeks, enhancing my natural beauty with a touch of elegance.

Tone Candle Dhs504

Not Your Standard

Lighting this candle is my favourite ritual. Its comforting aroma of vanilla and citrus instantly creates a cosy atmosphere, making any space feel like home.

PRO Intensive Treatment 10x

Dhs753 Restorsea

I love incorporating this into my skincare routine because it delivers potent anti-aging benefits

without any irritation, leaving my skin smooth and radiant.

Best Skin Ever – Seabuckthorn, 50ml Dhs117 Living Libations

I swear by this because it not only deeply nourishes and moisturises my skin but also leaves it glowing and radiant from head to toe.

Copaiba Oil Dhs191 doTerra

I rely on this versatile oil because it helps me manage feelings of anxiousness, promotes clear skin, and supports my overall well-being in so many ways.

Vagus Nerve Bath Oil

Dhs210 Osea

This is a favourite of mine because it helps me unwind after a hectic day, enveloping me in a calming bath experience that melts away stress.

ENERGY BOOST

Boost your inner glow and optimize your output with these IV drips to prep you pre-summer

WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

CONTRAST WELLNESS

The Antioxidant IV Treatment

This clean wellness space offers customised IV drips according to each client’s specific needs for maximum absorption. It gives the body vital nutrients with a boost to the immune system. Golden Mile 6, Palm Jumeirah and City Walk. contrast-wellness.com

Nova Clinic

Fountain of Youth IV Treatment

At Nova, IV Vitamin Therapy is administered using sterile equipment by our top-ofthe-line experts. You can even opt for the IV services at home for wellness and immune support. The Palm Jumeirah & Utamah Villa 1047, Al Wasl Road. novaskinaesthetics.com

Cornerstone Clinic

Regenerative Ozone IV Treatment

Celebrated international plastic surgeon Dr Maurizio Viel has expanded his healthcare offering with the opening of Cornerstone Clinic. The clinic brings a series of treat-

ments including IV infusions and stem cell treatments for the face and to combat hair loss. Grosvenor House Hotel, Tower 1, 4th Floor, Dubai Marina. cornerstoneclinic.ae

Atelier Clinic

Express Immune Boost Drip

With a team of multi-talented experts, the clinic offers a plethora of revitalising services to boost energy and treat fatigue and dehydration. Villa No 03, Umm Suqeim next to Burj Al Arab. atelierclinic.ae

Elborno Clinic

Red Carpet! Glowing IV Therapy

With state-of-the-art equipment, the clinic creates an unparalleled experience for all patients with personalised services according to their requirements. Founded by Dr

Ahmed Elborno, the clinic is known for its regenerative medicinal therapies and antiageing treatments. Teslaama Street, Jumeirah Street, Umm Suqeim 1. elbornocenters. com/dubai-services

Skin111

Post Party Drip

Established by a team of medical healthcare professionals, this clinic addresses nutritional and general health concerns with a modern approach. To make clients feel their best from the inside out, the team of experts customises drips to suit each individual’s needs. Gate Village 5, Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC). skin111.com

The Elixir Clinic

Intramuscular Therapy

Founded by Acaena Amoros and Mahi Aramideh, the clinic offers a plethora of intravenous (IV) nutrient therapies to sustain long-term wellbeing while creating a rejuvenating wellness experience. The clinic has designed a healthy lifestyle that goes beyond any treatment. Villa 583, Jumeirah Beach Road, Umm Suqeim 1 theelixirclinic.com

From top left: Contrast Wellness, Nova Clinic

BY: SARAH JOSEPH

AM TO PM BEAUTY

Founder of Nuaimi, Huda Al Nuaimi, shares her morning to evening beauty routine

Talk us through your morning routine. When dealing with mature skin you realise the work starts from within, so every morning on an empty stomach, I take the Vital Proteins Marine collagen which is an effective supplement for my skin, hair and nails. In terms of skin care, my morning routine is much lighter, apart from the cleansing routine, I focus a lot on keeping my skin moisturised for the day. How does your evening routine differ? In the evening, I like to feed my skin with serums, creams and apply a homemade rice mask, I use it with water as a toner to plump and nourish the skin.

What are your go-to skincare products? At the moment, the La Roche-Posay is my favourite and the only skincare products I use, and my favourite product is the Cicaplast Baume b5+.

Are you a fan of masks? Yes, I am, as the Koreans highly recommend, I apply a homemade Rice mask daily. However, I also highly recommend a classic DERMA Pen treatment monthly to keep my skin tight and eliminate any fine lines. How would you describe your approcah to makeup? Natural! Makeup should enhance your natural beauty therefore, less is more. To even out the

Clockwise from top left:

Skin Suede – Melting Bronze Balm Dhs100 SimiHaze; Lip Cheat Pillow Talk Fair Dhs120 Charlotte Tilbury; Calèche Eau de Toilette, 100ml Dhs760 Hermès; For Her Pure Musc, 100ml Dhs656 Narciso Rodriguez; Les Beiges WaterFresh Tint Dhs285 Chanel; Balancing Shampoo, 400ml Dhs235 Harklinikken

skin, I prefer a light tint Chanel Les Beiges and to bring a sun kissed colour to my cheeks, I love the Simi Haze Melting Bronze Balm in shade Terracotta with Kiko velvet touch no 5. For the lips, I keep it simple Charlotte Tilbury Pillow talk lip liner in medium, Clarins lip stain topped with Charlotte Tilbury magic oil. What can always be found in your makeup bag? Blusher and lip stain are the two items I cannot leave the house without. Which fragrances are your current signatures? For the body, I use Pure white musk and top it with

Narciso Rodriguez Her and Hermés Caleche. How do you select your evening fragrance? I stick to my signatures and to layer it, I add Arabian Oud for a long-lasting scent. Talk us through your hair routine. A year ago, I suffered from hair loss on my hairline, so I changed my hair routine to Harklinikken Balancing shampoo and conditioner and have never looked back, it all grew back. To soften my hair, the Love Your Hair Organic Argan hair mask is an absolute winner. What is the most unusual item in your makeup bag? I mostly never leave home without a hairbrush.

PHOTOGRAPHY: MARK MATHEW

In the office with Dina ElShurafa, founder of Reform Athletica

PERSONAL SPACE

How long have you been in this space? We opened our doors at ICD Brookfield Place on September 1, 2023.

Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces? The whole space has been custombuilt. As design guardians, London-based TR Studio Architects worked very closely with us to turn our vision into reality. We wanted to create a special space for our clients. In addition to the design, the art collection has been specially curated and includes pieces by Picasso, Ed Ruscha, Damien Hirst, and eLSeed, among others. How do you think the interior reflects you? Whether at our ICDB or our Jumeirah location, art has been at the heart of our design. This is a constant in all our spaces because what is a space without art? We also believe that comfort and aesthetic must go hand in hand which is why we ensure that our spaces are first and foremost comfortable for our clients.

Describe your taste in three words. Classically modern, comforting and timeless.

WORDS: AMY SESSIONS

THE WANDERLUST

Amankila is a haven to heal body and mind, no matter how short your stay

AMANKILA –MANGGIS, BALI

THE STAY

Claiming a breathtaking stretch of coastline on the Lombok Strait, Amankila rests on a lush hillside beneath sacred Mount Agung. Connected by frangipani-lined walkways through the treetops, stilted suites offer spectacular views high on the hillside, while a three-tier infinity pool cascades at the property’s heart and the Beach Club leads to a private black-sand beach. Elevated on stilts to maximise sea views and nestled on a verdant hillside against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Agung, Amankila’s Suites overlook the waters of the Lombok Strait and a private beach.

THE DINING

Serving exquisite Indonesian and international cuisines with produce sourced from the resort’s own organic farm and garden, Amankila’s hillside, poolside and seaside dining venues all claim mesmerising views of the Lombok Strait. Celebrating the conviviality and warmth of traditional family dining with a sustainable, seasonal focus, Amankila’s menus reflect the rich bounty of Bali’s volcanic soil, the wealth of its waters and the creative genius of the resort’s expert chefs. Try The Terrace Bar for an idyllic setting to linger for sunset drinks or celebrations with friends or family.

THE WELLNESS

Drawing on the energy of East Bali, the Spa’s therapies aim for complete relaxation and presence in the moment. Natural ingredients are used in traditional Balinese baths, scrubs and wraps – available in the privacy of guest Suites, the massage pavilion, a beach bale or secluded open-air spot with

a tropical canopy. Specialist practitioners such as healers are trained to facilitate deep transformation, and utilise a variety of tools to assist with awakening and healing, while holistic practitioners who offer treatments ranging from hypnotherapy to reiki are all available to optimise body and mind for a real reset no matter how short your stay.

SWEAT AND THE CITY

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

Next-level fitness and wellness concepts around the world

BLANCHE –PARIS, FRANCE

Housed in a former 19th-century private mansion, Blanche is a chic high-end wellness and fitness destination that is favoured amongst aesthetes and the fashion set. Blanche opens onto a palatial minimalisticmeets-monastic space dedicated to movement, wellness, and harmony. Across six levels, a wide range of fitness disciplines and activities such as Ashtanga Yoga, Pilates, and private sessions are available for members. In the basement, is a granite-encased hydrotherapy infinity pool with a steam and sauna room. At Blanche, the fitness is just as luxurious as its meals. On the first floor, B.B. by Jean Imbert serves pre- and post-workout nourishment of small plates and shakes made from local produce in a typical Parisian setting (think: lively café and restaurant with a large outdoor terrace). 21blanche.com

THE CLUB BY BAMFORD –COTSWOLDS, UK

Nestled in 3,500 acres of organic farmland in the Cotswolds, South West England, The Club by Bamford invites new members to indulge in a wellness experience in a countryside setting, just 90-minutes away from London. It features a 340 square metre gym with state-of-the-art equipment and dedicated personal trainers, a high-octane spin studio and an indoor swimming pool combine to create a personalised, varied training environment. An outdoor workout space, run club and warm plunge pool with panoramic views across the surrounding orchard fuse fitness and nature. Ice baths, a steam room and sauna allow members to benefit from the therapeutic properties of the natu-

Previous page: SIRO, Dubai, UAE; This page: (from top) Heimat, Los Angeles, USA; Blanche, Paris, France

ral elements that aid recovery. Modern alternatives such as IV drips, cryotherapy and red-light therapy are also available. Mind, body and soul are nurtured by treatments and classes under the guidance of the experts. For dining, The Nest boasts a seasonal menu filled with locallysourced ingredients, encouraging nourishment of the body from the inside out. bamfordclub.com

HEIMAT – LOS ANGELES, USA

Over in Los Angeles, Heimat is the latest addition to the wellness scene. This Equinox-meet-SohoHouse fitness sanctuary spans over 75,000 square feet offering a contemporary experience of elevated relaxation and invigoration that cater to a younger market looking for something laid back yet luxurious environment than a traditional fitness club. The five-level “achingly hip” destination incorporates thoughtful and modern elements cultivated to inspire and create a well-curated environment for wellbeing. From adrenaline-boosting fitness to core-strengthening Pilates sessions, members and guests can book sessions or consult with a dedicated team of private trainers. Power down at the spa that offers the latest holistic and rejuvenating therapies, indulge on plant-forward dishes at award-winning chef Michael Mina’s Mother Tongue, or cool down and socialise at the rooftop clubhouse for a post-workout hangout with like-minded individuals. heimat.com

SURRENNE –LONDON, UK

Located in Knightsbridge, Surenne is London’s newest destination in the wellness scene that fuses hightech and modern wellbeing and longevity practices in one roof for the ultimate rest and relaxation. Designed by award-winning vi-

sionary Remi Tessier (a yacht and private jet specialist and the mastermind behind The Penthouse at Claridge’s), the space is set over four floors devoted to wellbeing and longevity as well as a state-ofthe-art gym. The Club is also home to an ultra-modern swimming pool equipped with a sound system for in-water meditation.

Expect a stellar cast of fitness and wellness pioneers and programmes at Surrenne. The Longevity Clinic in partnership with tech pioneers Virtusan includes a Scientific Advisory Board whose members include Dr. Andrew Huberman (the Huberman Lab), Dr David Sinclair (author of Lifespan) and Dr Shauna Shapiro, and can offer evidencebased methodologies and diagnostics to its members. For cardio fanatics, the revolutionary Tracy Anderson Method workouts is designed to work every muscle in your body. In Surenne Café, a micronutrient

rich menu designed by nutritionist Rosemary Ferguson awaits to cap off intense sweat sessions. surrenne.com

SIRO – DUBAI, UAE

SIRO is a groundbreaking, new generation lifestyle and hospitality concept amidst Dubai’s bustling metropolis founded and launched by Kerzner International fully dedicated to optimisation, longevity, and recovery. This upscale city escape seamlessly blends modern physical fitness, best-in-class recovery therapies and a holistic approach to well-being housed in a serene environment accentuated with contemporary design elements and state-of-the-art facilities.

Upon arriving, guests are treated to a superlative wellness experience such as tech-enabled rooms for optimal sleep and modular nutrition-led dining that can be tailored by in-house specialists for the duration of the stay. sirohotels.com

This page: (above) The Club by Bamford, Cotswolds, UK; (bottom right) Surrenne, London, UK

THE BODY RESET

From Thailand to Switzerland, four wellness destinations to reset and reconnect your body

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

ONE&ONLY AESTHESIS –GREECE

One&Only Aesthesis together with Guerlain Spa recently debuted its wellness partnership: its first-ever spa in Greece. Offering a transformative Grecian wellness experience, the spa is thoughtfully designed to capture the essence of the Athenian Riviera, boasting 10 treatment rooms, including two spacious double Suites, a sauna, a hammam, an outdoor pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. Guerlain features its signature treatments, as well as unique experiences designed exclusively for the One&Only Aesthesis including wellness programmes

aimed to achieve balance and complete revival of body, mind, and soul, encompassing sleep recovery, immunity boosting, and targeted detox. oneandonlyresorts.com

RAKXA – THAILAND

RAKxa’s five-night Destress and Well Relaxed, and seven-night Gut Health Programs are tailored with its signature holistic experiences that harness traditional and modern therapeutic practices to achieve your wellbeing goals. Located amidst the lushness of the protected island of Bang Krachao in Bangkok, guests stay in luxuriously appointed villas, where every detail is crafted for relaxation and

Previous spread: Six Senses Fort Barawara – India; This page: (from top) Chenot Palace

Weggis, RAKxa; Opposite Page: Six Senses Fort Barawara, One&Only Aesthesis – Greece

rejuvenation, and enjoy a culinary experience that are nutritious, and restorative inspired by the wisdom of Thai and personalised international cuisines. rakxawellness.com

CHENOT PALACE WEGGIS –SWITZERLAND

Chenot Palace Weggis is a next-generation health wellness retreat that boasts suites and rooms across 5,000 square meters of estate dedicated to the pursuit of wellbeing and relaxation. Its award-winning programmes include diagnostic tests, treatments, movement, detoxification, and nutrition based on the Chenot Method that are designed to help guests shift the energy throughout the body and realise one’s highest potential self. chenot.com

SIX SENSES FORT BARAWARA – INDIA

Six Senses Fort Barwara in India is a royal palace of wellbeing wherein guests are whisked to a majestic fort-turned-wellness retreat that seamlessly blends Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage with modern comforts. From yoga and meditation to camel safaris and village walks, all the activities are designed to enhance wellbeing and help guests connect with the local community. With stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys, the resort offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and offers a spiritual journey in the sacred quarters of the Fort. sixsenses.com

WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

Longevity Potential

Paulina

Mercader, General Manager

of the L ongevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie on how the concept at One&Only One Za’abeel offers a complete detox

Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie focuses on three interconnected pillars: Longevity, Wellbeing, and Aesthetics – how does it work? The connection between longevity, wellbeing, and aesthetic treatments lies in their collective ability to contribute to a fulfilling and satisfying life. Aesthetic treatments, such as cosmetic procedures or dermatological enhancements, can directly impact one’s sense of self-confidence and appearance. Hence, it pivots mental wellbeing. When individuals feel good about themselves, they may be more inclined to engage in positive lifestyle choices and behaviours that promote longevity, such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management. This approach is built on three pillars. We perceive wellbeing as a 360-degree concept, addressing all facets of an individual’s life.

The brand delivers a seamless unparalleled assesment for guests – talk us through the process. Our assessment process begins with the Longevity Index, a three-step approach aimed at providing guests with a comprehensive roadmap to their wellness programme. During this initial assessment, we evaluate five key markers that we consider pivotal in determining longevity. They include Metabolic health, Detox, Skin health, Immunity and Energy. Once the Longevity Index assessment is complete, we focus our attention on the two lowest markers identified for each guest. Through a combination of CLP panels, one-on-one consultations with our health and wellbeing practitioners, and tailored lifestyle plan adjustments, we delve deep into the details to address specific areas of concern and opportunity. Upon completion, our experts develop a hyper-personalised protocol for each guest, incorportaing elements from all of our three fundamental pillars, incorparting wellbeing treatments, therapies, and lifestyle adjustments.

From Cryotherapy to IV Drips – what are some of the key services that can be added during the expereince? The Longevity Hub Dubai offers some of the most innovative advancements in wellness technology to help our guests live life to its fullest potential including a calorimetry tests, chelation drips for detoxification, dermatologist consultations, our signature Longevity Path to Detox experience, cupping therapy, exosomes IV drips, ozone therapy, far-infrared and light therapies, and brain stimulation. Furthermore, guests can enjoy a wide range of minimally invasive aesthetic procedures. If a client wants a complete detox experience – how does it work? We will conduct a series of pre-determined analyses to uncover the reasons of why the body may not be effectively eliminating toxins naturally. Additionally, we will assess each guest’s

availability to dedicate to their programme, determining the number of hours or days per week they can commit. Our health and wellbeing team will tailor a detox programme to suit individual needs. Ideally, we recommend a commitment of three hours per week over a period of 21 days for optimal results. How often would you recommend that clients need to detox? It’s crucial to consider individual lifestyle and habits to tailor the detoxification process to each guest’s specific needs. For optimal results, we suggest participating in a comprehensive detox programme such as the one offered in Clinique La Prairie Montreux once a year. For a more regular detox routine like the Signature Rebalance programme, we recommend engaging in it once per month. The Rebalance Experience helps eliminate toxins through detoxifying and immunityboosting treatments – tell us more. The Rebalance Experience is one of our signature experiences at the Longevity Hub Dubai, and was crafted specifically for urban lifestyles. It is recommended for monthly use as it aids the body in eliminating heavy metals as a core aspect of its detoxification process. This is vital for a successful detox, as heavy metals disrupt cellular functions, impair metabolic processes, and can trigger inflammation and tissue damage. Furthermore, heavy metals pose a significant threat to vital organs such as the liver, kidneys, and brain, compromis-

ing their ability to effectively remove toxins from the body. Therefore, detoxification at the Longevity Hub by Clinique La Prairie is considered critical for supporting overall health and extending lifespan. What are some of the main causes of concern in the Middle East? High rates of noncommunicable diseases due to sedentary lifestyles and poor diets, such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and chronic respiratory diseases.

This is The Body Issue – what are your nonnegotiable self and body care practices? My approach to self-care is all about tuning into what my body needs, also tailoring it to address the demands of my lifestyle and environment. At the moment, what I’ve incorporated in my routine includes the Monthly NAD Drip and Mineral Boost as since relocating to the GCC countries, I’ve noticed a dip in energy levels due to nutri-

tional gaps in locally sourced food and limited outdoor activities. To counter this, I opt for a monthly NAD drip along with essential vitamins and minerals to support my body’s vitality. I also implement a strict sleep routine which has transformed my well-being. From using a sleep mask to banning electronic devices from the bedroom, and incorporating power naps inspired by blue zone practices, these habits have bolstered cognitive function and resilience. I opt for the Chelation IV Drip, where every three months, I undergo chelation therapy to rid my body of heavy metals, promoting overall wellness and vitality beyond detoxification. In my 40s, I prioritise weight training over cardio at least three times a week to maintain strength and mobility. Additionally, when it comes to my skincare regimen, my dedication to skincare extends beyond vanity, reflecting my commitment to holistic well-being. Monthly aesthetic facials and skin boosters, including derma pen treatments, ensure skin health and rejuvenation. I vouch for the weekly Indiba + Endospheres sessions which target cellulite and promote circulation, countering the effects of prolonged sitting. To take a break, I carve out weekly silent and alone time, and weekends are reserved for relaxation and peace, avoiding overcommitment. Overall, enforcing the right to disconnect from work during non-working hours safeguards against burnout, ensuring overall balance and well-being.

Food for the Soul

Restaurateur Rashed Al Tayer, founder of Terra Eatery, on creating a locally grown haven that nourishes mind, body and soul

WORDS: SARAH JOSEPH

Talk us through your background. During my time at university whilst studying finance in San Diego, I spent some time travelling, dining out and immersing myself in diverse culinary experiences, from touring coffee roasters in California to homegrown concepts in Greece that focused on fresh and local produce. This left a lasting impression on me and inspired me to craft a new style of relaxed yet elevated dining concepts bringing them to the region. After returning to Dubai, I embarked on a professional journey in real estate alongside my family for some time but felt compelled to explore bringing a new style of F&B concepts to the local scene, giving me a chance to showcase my creativity and gauge my ability to craft innovative concepts inspired by what I had seen during my university days.

The contemporary restaurant redefines Mediterranean cooking – talk us through the concept. At Terra, we embrace coastalinspired Mediterranean plates that champion ingredients as the stars of each dish. We prioritise the use of premium and locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that each dish undergoes meticulous tastings and adjustments before earning its place on our menu. Embracing the ethos of seasonality, we periodically refresh key dishes to reflect the freshest produce available.

Terra Eatery beautifully captures local flavours – tell us more. As an Emirati and the owner of a homegrown business, it is important for me to support other local businesses where I can. Prioritising local produce, and collaborating with homegrown architects and designers to infuse authenticity into every aspect of the dining experience is of utmost importance to me.

What are some of the key dishes to try at the restaurant? For lunch or dinner, the Spicy Prawns are my all-time favourite as well as The French beans salad – simple yet fresh and flavourful and as for the pastas, the Short Rib Pappardelle – all of our pastas are made in-house which adds a special touch. For breakfast, all are my favourites but my go -to is the Menemen with sumac yoghurt, onion and capsicums or Frittata.

The restaurant is known for its beautifully crafted interiors – what was the creative process behind the space? I envisioned a restaurant influenced by the Mediterranean, my personal favourite culinary region. A nestled haven where comfort, inspiration, and relaxation come together. The design of Terra is a testament to attention to detail, with rustic open kitchens, earthy hand-finished clay walls, Italian artisan tiles, reclaimed wood,

linen fabrics, and lush green foliage bringing an inviting indoor-outdoor southern European courtyard feel to the dining experience. The concept has been selected for the Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi 2024 – how does it feel? Receiving recognition and awards for our efforts is immensely gratifying - it validates the hard work and dedication we’ve poured into our craft. Being acknowledged by esteemed guides like Michelin is particularly rewarding.

Everything at Terra Eatery embodies fine attention-to-detail – how important was this from the outset? Attention to detail is everything, Terra was designed to offer upscale cuisine in a warm and welcoming environment, where our guests could feel at home

and come as they are, it is centered around people and the customer profile at Terra is the everyday person who appreciates authenticity, honesty, and attention to detail. How has travel influenced ideation through the restaurant? Massively! My love for the Mediterranean coast majorly influences me, as I travel there often. The ambiance, music, and cuisine at Terra are all imbued with the essence of that region.

This is The Body Issue – what are your nonnegotiable self and body care practices? I believe that what you consume, your environment, and physical activity all contribute to self-care and overall well-being. To maintain balance, I incorporate a variety of workouts such as Pilates, cycling, and stretching into my routine. Additionally, I prioritise nourishing my body with balanced, highquality meals from places that not only inspire me but also provide a positive feel to the dining experience.

“Attention to detail is everything, Terra was designed to offer upscale cuisine in a warm and welcoming environment”

THE DIRECTORY

A

Accessorize (04) 3399098

Adidas (04) 2325690

Aerin (04) 4098888

Aesop (04) 3293030

Agnès b. (04) 3520391

Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons (04) 3398881

Aigner (04) 4341333

Alberta Ferretti (04) 3398957

Aldo (04) 2328162

Alex Perry +44(0) 2039622362

Alexander McQueen (04) 3398760

Alexander Wang +44(0) 2039622362

Alexandra Rich (04) 4098888

Alexandre Vauthier (04) 409 8888

Alexandre Birman (04) 3951200

Alighieri +44(0) 2039622362

Altuzarra Online at Farfetch

Anita Ko +44(0) 2039622362

Amina Muaddi (800) 5383573

Antik Batik (04) 4343080

Areej (04) 3405223

Armani Exchange (04) 3399472

Assouline (04) 4384546

Aquazzura (04) 3882367

Ayesha Depala (04) 5136415

B

Banana Republic (04) 3398462

Balenciaga (04) 3951769

Bally (04) 3231643

Balmain (056) 1883796

Bambah (055) 224 1538

Baruni (050) 4579249

Ba&sh (04) 3854557

BCBG Max Azria (04) 4340627

Benefit Cosmetics (04) 3951978

Blaze Milano (800) 044 5703

Bloomingdale’s Dubai (04) 3505333

Bottega Veneta (04) 3951201

Boucheron (04) 3410039

Boutique1.com (04) 3951200

Burberry (04) 3998243

Bulgari (04) 3308834

Byredo (800) 74676277

BySymphony (04) 3106900

C

Cartier (04) 3951000

Carolina Herrera (04) 3398132

Catherine Malandrino (04) 3398102

Céline (04) 3410585

Chanel (04) 3818400

Chantecaille (04) 4098888

Charles & Keith (04) 3398713

Charlotte Olympia (04) 3994122

Charlotte Tilbury (04) 4190100

Chaumet (04) 3398758

Chloé (04) 3300700

Chopard (04) 3414545

Christian Dior (04) 3235322

Christian Louboutin (04) 3990998

Church’s (800) 5383573

City Walk 800 637227

Claudie Pierlot (04) 3253798

Coach (04) 3398670

Cos (04) 4190858

CVC Stones (800) 044 5703

D

Damas (04) 4459468

De Beers (04) 3412121

Deira City Centre (04) 2093105

Diesel (04) 3398615

Dermalogica (04) 3398250

Diane von Furstenberg (04) 3232257

Dior (04) 3308739

Diane Cordas (800) 74676277

Dione Lee Online at Farfetch, Ounass

DKNY (04) 3414343

Dolce & Gabbana (04) 3308566

Dune (055) 2136194

Dubai Mall (800) 382246255

Dr Sebagh Online at noon

E

Elie Saab (04) 3951600

Ellery (800) 74676277

Emilia Wickstead (04) 3106900

Emilio Pucci (04) 3398525

Emporio Armani (04) 3951373

Escada (04) 3279191

Estee Lauder (04) 2995600

Etoile ‘La boutique’ (04) 3414166

Etro (04) 3411014

Eugenia Kim (800) 74676277

F

Fendi (04) 3399782

Farfetch (800) 0320327

Forever 21 (04) 3277488

Fornasetti (800) 74676277

Francesco Russo (800) 5383573

French Connection (04) 2273848

Furla (04) 3410285

G

Galeries Lafayette (04) 3399933

Galleria Mall (04) 3444434

Gap (04) 3850988

Gérard Darel (04) 3399780

Giambattista Valli +44 (0) 2039848044

Gianvitto Rossi (800) 5383573

Giorgio Armani (04) 3951373

Giuseppe Zanotti (04) 3413117

Givenchy (04) 4227073

Globe Trotter

Online at matchesfashion

Golden Goose (04) 3355218

Gucci (04) 3398576

H

H&M (04) 4190346

Harry Winston (04) 3398972

Harvey Nichols – Dubai (04) 4098888

Hermès (04) 8181390

Hervé Léger 800 382246255

Holland & Barrett (04) 3882401

I & J

Ibn Battuta Mall (04) 3621900

Inglot (04) 2228344

Jacquemus (04) 3951200

Jaeger (04) 2840840

Jaeger-LeCoultre (04) 3398769

JetSet (04) 3995005

Jimmy Choo (04) 3398925

Jo Malone (04) 4190287

Joseph (04) 8803433

Juicy Couture (04) 3475591

K

Karen Millen (04) 3398608

Kate Spade (058) 1030866

Kenneth Cole (04) 3555872

Kenzo (04) 3308455

Khalil Al Sayegh (04) 2276555

Kiehl’s (04) 2886376

Kristina Fidelskaya (04) 3627500

Kurt Geiger (04) 3413883

LLacoste (04) 3410575

Lanvin (04) 3555310

Le Labo (04) 4190953

Level Shoes (800) 5383573

Loewe (04) 3253754

Loquet Online at thelabelhunter

Louis Vuitton (04) 3950431

Lucas Hugh+44 (0) 2039622362

M

MAC Cosmetics (04) 4190856

Maje (04) 8815988

Maison Des Fleurs (04) 2765886

Maison Michel +44 (0) 2039622362

Mall of the Emirates (04) 4099000

Mango (04) 3414663

Manolo Blahnik (04) 3398122

Marc Jacobs (04) 3951281

Mark Cross +1 8885509675

Marks & Spencer (800) 62637

Maria Tash (04) 8817885

Marni (04) 3549417

Marysia (04) 3951200

Massimo Dutti (04) 3399070

Max Mara (04) 3882070

Messika (04) 4255575

Michael Kors (04) 3253491

Missoni (04) 3951400

Miss Selfridge (04) 3398016

Miu Miu (04) 3249276

All Things Mochi (04) 4433451

Moncler (04) 3300280

Moschino (04) 3398079

Montblanc (04) 3304810

Monica Vinader (04) 3951700

NNamshi.com (800) 626744

NARS (04) 4227531

Natura Bisse (04) 2993090

New Look (04) 4340740

Next (04) 4190522

Nike (04) 4342683

Nina Ricci (04) 3308789

Nine West (04) 3410244

O

O Concept (04) 3455557

Off White (054) 4541546

Oscar de la Renta (04) 3399005

Ounass 800 686277

P

Paris Gallery (04) 3308289

Pandora (04) 3235607

Pastels Salon (04) 3883534

Parfois (04) 4343167

Paul Smith (04) 3951742

Paule Ka (04) 3882384

PE Nation (04) 3951200

Piaget (04) 3398222

Pomellato (04) 3882036

Prada (04) 3049700

Proenza Schouler (04) 448344

R

Ralph & Russo (04) 874 8593

Ralph Lauren (04) 3308347

Rami Al Ali (04) 3945607

Reiss (04) 3410515

Rene Caovilla (04) 3253677

Repossi (04) 2771392

River Island (04) 3399415

Rivoli (04) 3413121

Roger Vivier (04) 3475695

Roland Mouret (04) 5519356

Rolex (04) 3627500

S

Saint Laurent (04) 3410113

Salvatore Ferragamo (04) 3411022

Sandro (04) 3951281

Samsonite (04) 3398690

See by Chloé (04) 3951880

Sephora (04) 3951978

Sergio Rossi (04) 3324829

111 Skin (04) 4068800

Smythson (800) 589

Sonia Rykiel (04) 3308464

S*uce (055) 3447270

Stella McCartney (04) 3399179

Sunglass Hut (04) 3995824

Swarovski (04) 3685573

TTabitha Simmons Online at Farfetch

Tata Harper (04) 5245555

Ted Baker (04) 3997377

Temperley (04) 3398169

Temperley London (04) 3339943

The Attico (04) 4483444

The Body Shop (04) 3410551

The Nail Pavillion (04) 4229791

The Nail Spa (600) 544001

The Dubai Mall (800) 382246255

The Outlet (04) 4264900

The Row (04) 3951200

Tiffany & Co. (04) 3398350

Tips & Toes (04) 3412020

Tod’s (04) 3413033

Tommy Hilfiger (04) 3410260

Toni&Guy (04) 3303345

Topshop (04) 3399802

Tom Ford (04) 3400347

Tory Burch (04) 3253670

V

Vacheron Constantin (04) 2406323

Valentino (04) 3471890

Van Cleef & Arpels (04) 3398001

Valextra (04) 3308030

Veja (800) 74676277

Versace (04) 3398285

Versace Jewellery (04) 4341570

Victoria Beckham (04) 3951200

W

Wafi Mall (04) 3244555

Whistles (04) 3410951

Wolford (04) 4232832

X, Y & Z

Yves Salomon (04) 5245555

Zadig & Voltaire (04) 3399186

Zara (04) 3308567

Zayan The Label (04) 3440104

Zimmermann (800) 74676277

BODY WORK

The Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II gets refreshed with urban-focused updates and a heightened monolithic look – the ultimate bold statement of power

WORDS: CAMILLE MACAWILI

Choose from our extensive range of authentic Thesiger photographs.

PERFECT DECORATIONS FOR HOTELS, OFFICES AND

HOMES.

Framed or unframed prints available exclusively from The Arabian Gallery

THOUGHTFUL HOSPITALITY IS TIMELESS

We are delighted to welcome your whole family to Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. Whether you’re here for rest and relaxation, or to embark on a great adventure – when your needs are taken care of, you are free to explore the world. Ask about family activities and connect with our concierge for perfectly tailored local recommendations and let your stay take you further.

MARRIOTT ® RESORT PALM JUMEIRAH, DUBAI

PALM WEST BEACH, PO BOX 62049, DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES