Out and About Magazine Issue 2 Vol.4 - Oweis Zahran by Out and About Mag

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On this month's cover Interview: Oweis Zahran

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Location: D3 Dubai Photographer: Wassim Raslan

Published by Out and About FZE (Registered at Fujairah Creative City)

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EDITOR’S NOTE “ A person has to remember that the road to success is always under construction. You have to get that through your head, that it is not easy becoming successful. “

— Steve Harvey,

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Return to Paradise

Keep pushing. You have your sights set on a goal but, right now, attaining it seems almost impossible. There seems to be one obstacle after another, and you do not appear to be making any progress. Remain focused, and keep going. Don’t give up. Keep pushing. You will get through the rough patches and inch closer to that goal, no matter how impossible it may seem right now. Wait for the moments of smooth sailing that will come, just keep going.

Features and highlights For Behind the Brand, we talk to serial entrepreneur Oweis Zahran about his journey and his father’s influence. In Fashion, we delve into Women’s Arab Fashion Week, bringing you the looks from the runway or take a look at 7 Iconic Designer Bags and the Women who Inspired them in this lookback. Did any of your favourites make the list? Did you know the story behind them? Also, relive Fashion from the Red Carpet at the 2022 Oscars and snippets from the afterparty, because It wouldn’t be the Oscars without Vanity Fair. Then in Beauty, take your pick of the Best AntiAgeing Creams and Serums. In Lifestyle, Rebranding: Inner Discovery for Outer Presentation explores personal rebranding. The section also features a piece on Practical Postpandemic Ideas for your Office and Leisure Spaces. Get tips on Keeping Fit during Ramadan in our Fitness section. Then in Food, Reduce your Footprint with Sustainable Cooking and enjoy some Food Journeys. In the Travel and Experiences section, Experience

Paradise on Earth at Mysk Kingfisher Retreat and Escape to the Picturesque Haven of Mysk Al Badayer through the pages of Out and About Mag. You can also check out The Museum of the Future: A New Knowledge and Innovation for a taste of what’s to come and Inside the Honeymoon of Mona Kattan and Hassan Elamin at St Regis Maldives Vommuli. We also share 5 Sites every Muslim should visit in Spain. In our For the Culture, Do you have “IT”? Find out in the feature. We also take a closer look at Men and Mental Health. The Seat of the Soul by Gary Zukav is our Shelf Life feature. Road to success is always under construction A person has to remember that the road to success is always under construction. You have to get that through your head that it is not easy to become successful. So all that you are now experiencing is expected. What matters is how you pull through it and keep going. Also, Out and About and the team that made this publication possible are always here to remind you of your greatness.

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CONTENTS Apr - May 2022

SECTION 1

7 BEHIND THE BRAND

• Oweis Zahran, Building on Legacy

Serial Entrepreneur and Visionary SECTION 2

20 FASHION •

Women’s Arab Fashion Week

• 7 Iconic Designer Bags and the Women who Inspired Them •

Fashion from the Red Carpet at the 2022 Oscars

•

It wouldn’t be the Oscars without Vanity Fair

SECTION 3

SECTION 6

148 BEAUTY

• Best Anti-ageing Creams and Serums

213 FOR THE CULTURE •

Do you have “IT”?

•

Men and Mental Health

SECTION 4

152 LIFESTYLE

SECTION 7

• Rebranding: Inner Discovery for Outer Presentation

• Practical Post-pandemic Ideas for your

224 SHELF LIFE •

T he Seat of the Soul

Office and Leisure Spaces

166 FITNESS •

Keeping Fit during Ramadan

170 FOOD •

Reduce your Foodprint with Sustainable Cooking

172 FOOD JOURNEYS

• Bombay Brasserie: Taj Dubai’s signature Indian Restaurant

SECTION 5

178 TRAVEL & EXPERIENCES

• Experience Paradise on Earth at Mysk Kingfisher Retreat

• Escape to the Picturesque Haven of Mysk Al Badayer • The Museum of the Future: A New Beacon for Knowledge and Innovation

• Inside the Honeymoon of Mona Kattan and Hassan Elamin

• 5 Sites every Muslim should visit in Spain

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Out and About Magazine takes no responsibility for unsolicited photographs or material. The photographs in this publication are for illustration purposes, unless otherwise specified.

OZAHRAN WEIS

SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR AND VISIONARY BUILDING ON LEGACY Company OWS AUTOMOTIVE

OWS CAPITAL INVESTMENT

RAFID AUTOMOTIVE SOLUTIONS

MELT MIDDLE EAST

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1. Tell us a bit about yourself and your entrepreneurial journey. My entrepreneurial journey started when I was about 16 years old. I started working for my dad when I was 13. And, I say it all the time, he’s taught me everything I know about being an entrepreneur and a businessman, whether he knew he was teaching me or not, just being around him and seeing how he did things. I have also been around the world a few times, in 70-plus countries just for work, from a very young age, and that really helped me learn several elements of life from different perspectives. I didn’t have much of a childhood or much of a playful youth; it was all work from a very young age. I was never a major social person either; I was selectively social. If it was important for the task at hand, I would attend, but I wouldn’t be the one to throw parties or attend parties just because I was looking for fun and entertainment. So it’s been an interesting journey. 2. You didn’t have much of a childhood. Do you think that has impacted you in any way as an adult? Definitely. I was in the car yesterday with a good friend, and we were driving from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, and he asked, “Are you going to play the music?” I said, “I don’t even know how to turn on the radio.” I’ve never even had music be a part of my life growing up; I’ve never had the things that people look at as norms because it wasn’t a part of my dad’s life. My dad was work-oriented and mission-focused. And so that definitely shaped me to be the person I am today because, again, you are your habits. Whatever you do as a habit eventually shapes who you are as a person. 3. How did you build up an entrepreneurial spirit at such a young age? Do you believe you were born with it or did you develop it? When I was in my teens, early teens, I said, “I would love to be one of the most successful 24-year-olds in the world.” So I had this goal that I was working towards, without really knowing that I was working towards it, but I would think about it every morning. Every morning, for that 10-year period from 13, 14 to 24 years old. And then my dad, obviously, was my role model. I still talk to him several times a day about everything, not work as much, but about everything else going on in my life. And he’s always been the perfect scenario or the perfect story for me. I wanted my story to be somewhat the same in whatever way possible. So, absolutely, my dad was the role model that I strive to be like, and he seems to be pretty proud of what he produced.

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4. You mentioned your dad is pretty proud of what he produced. Are you proud of yourself as well? I think I’ve excelled in some areas. Again, now that I’m an adult, I’m noticing that I’m lacking in certain areas… but I’m not upset about it either. I don’t smoke, I don’t drink, and I don’t party. Nor do I want to, especially now, but like growing up in my early 20s, I would feel somewhat left out because that’s what all the cool people my age were doing. And then you realise very quickly that, especially as you get older and life becomes more serious, It’s cool being different. 5. So let’s talk about success a little bit; what does that look, feel and sound like to you? I think the average person would jump to the conclusion that success is monetary success, and that’s a piece of it, but it’s not success as a whole. I’ve seen a lot of money in my bank account several times throughout my life, and at the highest point, I can’t say I felt the most successful. So again, money is an important piece of success, obviously, but having balance and

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peace is also a very important piece of success. I was talking to a good friend the other day, and we were going over the fact that I reached a part of my life, at one point, where I was successful from the outside in, but from the inside out, I wasn’t taking care of my mental health, physical health. I didn’t really have a home; I was in-between homes, renting hotel rooms, instead of renting or buying a real home. And it became a real, almost trauma with myself. Again, from the outside, everybody’s looking at me as this super successful guy who owns all these companies and all this other stuff; and I reached a point where I literally didn’t care about any of that. It almost became irrelevant, until I was able to build that balance. I think the balance consists of family, health, physical and mental, of course, economic balance, social balance. That’s what success is; it’s not one of those and not the others. 6. What advice would you give to a young person wanting to start out in business? Don’t do anything you don’t enjoy, and don’t do anything because you’re desperate. It’s okay to do that for a little while just to get out of whatever tight situation you’re in financially, but

you will never be successful doing something you don’t like to do or want to do. Understanding that is the first piece of it, because otherwise, you would just waste your life being miserable, living paycheck to paycheck, before realising 10 years later that you’ve wasted your life. So find something you’re passionate about, whatever that is, and pursue it. One could be a barber if they are great at cutting hair, then become a millionaire cutting hair, and open a bunch of barber salons offering haircuts. Train people to train other people to cut hair. If you’re a mechanic, see how you excel

at whatever part of the trade you’re good at. If you’re an engine mechanic, can you fix hybrid engines, can you fix electric engines? What else can you do to excel in your passion? That’s where success is. I mean, every passion, every industry has the capacity to make you the most successful person, you just have to find it. 7. You mentioned your dad is your motivation and inspiration. Is there anybody else that you look to for motivation or inspiration? I look at just people who have achieved great things in life, coming from humble beginnings, and there are several of them. I’m not going to name any because I’ll leave some of them out.

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I’m sitting in Dubai now and looking at what the ruler of Dubai has built from literally nothing, so he’s definitely one of my inspirations. But again, there’s a really long list of people that inspire me. I know that building a success story is not easy. Even if you have the passion, talent, luck and everything else, you still have to balance a lot of things. And when you take a city like Dubai, or you take a major company like Emaar, for example, and look at what was built, that’s the inspiration, that’s motivation. 8. What are the main highlights of your entrepreneurial journey so far? I have a few of those, and once I realised and dwelled on one of the first ones, I was able to really continue being successful. What that means is you realise things get really hard at times, and you think they’re going to fail and they’re going to break, and they’re going to explode, and you’re going to be embarrassed. Once you overcome that fear and realise that whatever is on the other side is phenomenally greater than whatever you’ve gone through or you’re going through, that’s when you develop this pattern of success that anybody would want. A good friend told me something extremely inspirational, and I think about it all the time. He said to have a convenient life, you have to go through a lot of inconveniences, Steve Harvey. So that’s what Steve told me three days ago, and it’s things you think about quite a bit but don’t really implement. And I say you think about it because you would be going through hardship, whether it’s at work or with your physical health, or whatever it is that you’re putting in all this effort and work to get to the other side of something great, but you don’t really think about what that means. Anyone who has great success went through some really horrible days, some really tough moments of just feeling like life was tumbling, everything was collapsing. Those are the ones

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who make it to the highest levels of “success”. 9. What is the motivation behind your celebrity events, such as the one with Steve Harvey? Steve — an entrepreneur, businessman, the epitome of a success story that so happens to be a celebrity — is one of my inspirations that I didn’t name earlier. I know him pretty well, and I don’t look at him as a celebrity before any of those other things. He’s twice my age. He’s literally old enough to be my dad, and he gives me fatherly advice very often. But then he also tells me several times, “Look, you’re the perfect balance I need, because you’re built in this very kind of serious business form. You’re not in the entertainment world; you’re not a celebrity by any standards.” I think when we saw each other’s value, that’s when we knew we needed to be partners, and we formed MELT Middle East, which is doing only great things. I’ll tell you a quick story about one of the businesses we’re bringing to the UAE. I used to get really bad migraine headaches, and they would put me out of order for two weeks almost every month. I would be in a dark room for half of my life. Steve flew to Abu Dhabi to meet me once. He’s in town, and I stayed in Abu Dhabi during the time… to be closer. I was in my hotel room for four days, and he said, “Dude, where are you? I flew 19 hours to come and see you.” I told him it’s really hard to fathom, but I get bad migraines that put me out of order. It doesn’t matter what’s on the other side of the room, I can’t leave it, because if I do, I’ll start throwing up, I’ll start having literal seizures. He goes, “Well, there’s this doctor in Houston that you should go see, African-American guy named Kevin Smith.” Steve tracks him down through his radio team and connects me to this doctor. I go and see him. He does a very simple procedure in my nose that involves a deviated septum that, apparently, most people have, and something else, and I no longer get migrates.

I’m four months into not having another migraine, and I also know that I’ll never have another migraine because my mental belief is so strong. So Steve and I are on the phone going over how amazing it is that this worked for me, and at the same time, we both say, “This needs to be in the Middle East and Africa.” So that’s one of the first physical businesses in partnership with Dr Kevin Smith that is being set up in the Middle East and Africa. Also, this is the only doctor in the world that’s figured out how to cure migraines, not treat migraines, but cure migraines. And, we believe that should be shared with the rest of the world. Not everybody can get to the US, not everybody can afford to stay in the US for two or three weeks after the procedure to recover. So businesses like that we’re attracting to the region as well, as I talked about some of the other things relating to students, orphans, even, so we’re doing quite a few life-changing products through MELT Middle East. MELT has also engaged with governments in the region, including the Government of Abu Dhabi, to do some pretty cool entertainment stuff. We just did a big event with Kevin Hart in Abu Dhabi. We did the golf tournament; we talked about many, several other initiatives in the entertainment and tourism spaces.

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10. So outside of MELT Middle East, what else are you working on? So MELT is something I’ve never done before, nor did I ever think was doable for me, personally. But again, I thought about it a little bit more and said, “No, it’s all kind of the same thing.” You need a product that you can sell, and a customer that looks at that product as something attractive enough that they would spend money on and see value in; it just so happens to be mostly in the entertainment space. My core business is automotive-related. It’s not a pretty business or something that’s very fancy, but we’ve done it pretty well. And it’s because, again, it was a passion that I simply wanted it to be one of the best. And today, OWS Automotive is spoken of in the same breath as the major manufacturers... So we’ve excelled in a way that was pretty noticeable, especially in the Middle East region. Even on the highest levels of the manufacturers, we’re one of the strongest automotive players in the Middle East, with a total of about 2,400 employees. So it’s not a small business, and it’s only growing; the company is growing. 11. How do you look after your mental health? So I’m not the person to come to for mental health advice simply because I don’t think I’ve excelled in that area as much as I have in other areas. But I would say this, two and a half years ago, I was really affected by how many employees of ours were affected by COVID. Personally, it didn’t change too much of my lifestyle, other than the fact that I wasn’t going to offices, doing some of those things, but some of the employees, the businesses that they worked for, couldn’t afford to pay them their full salaries, or couldn’t afford to even have them be a part of the team, because everything was being downsized, and that really affected me. It

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was probably one of the first times in my life that I felt helpless, I didn’t know what to do. I couldn’t figure it out. I spoke to all these different mentors that I would have throughout various phases of my life. And then I realised that I was stressing it a little bit too much. While speaking to another good friend, who’s a celebrity in the US, he gave me some solid advice. He said, “Have you ever considered therapy?” I said, “Well, I’m not crazy; I’m not suicidal, I’m not.” And he said, “Well, that’s the problem. We only associate therapy with extreme cases of depression or suicidal thoughts, or drugrelated concerns. And it doesn’t have to be that, you just need someone sometimes to talk to, that will not judge, will not prolong or just get bored, or you not have to feel like you’re telling someone something that one day they may use it against you.” So I would say therapy is a really important part, not only males, but alpha males’ mental health. So find a therapist. Your therapist can be a trained therapist or a friend you noticed has therapist-like traits. Even if they don’t carry that title, just someone you can talk to, it’s really important that you find someone. If you don’t have that friend, then find a professional therapist. 12. What’s that one quote you live by? The quote I live by is, “Don’t give up.” Some people might look at that as cliche, but I look at it with its meaning, and it’s the reason I’m here. I’ve seen some really dark times. Let’s close with another Steve Harvey quote he says “If you’re going through hell, you don’t want to stop there, right? You want to get through it.” And that’s what I learned a long, long time ago. You don’t give up, just push through it, and look back at it. What stories to tell!

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Fashion

WOMEN’S ARAB FASHION WEEK

The Arab Fashion WeekWomen’s Fall/Winter 2022/23 was divided into three programmes: the Couture Calendar, the Ready-to-Wear Calendar and the Events Calendar, which highlighted Fashion Week retail and entertainment opportunities. Those in attendance were not disappointed.

The showcase was diverse, not only in relation to the approach to the designs while staying in theme but also in terms of the designers and brands, which literally brought a taste of different parts of the world to the experience.

Unforgettable, mesmerising and breathtaking are just a few words to describe the showcase. If you missed it, we’ve got you covered! Check out the highlights from Women’s Arab Fashion Week.

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MARAM BORHAN Egyptian designer, Maram Borhan, opened the Couture Calendar Spring/ Summer 2022 at this season’s Women’s Arab Fashion Week. Showcasing a breathtaking collection, each gown had a spirit in weight and design and pieces—constructed with large eyelet white lace and soft silken fabrics—filled the runway with inspiration and light. Subtle hues of pink, silver, lavender, and blue contrasted with bold fuchsia and electric blue tones. Borhan’s Spring/Summer 2022 collection has a range for all women. The collection was unforgettable.

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GIANNINA AZAR Dominican/Lebanese designer, Giannina Azar, is immortal in her vision as her exuberant and dreamlike fashions suit the demands of couture and her high-profile clientele. Azar started the show with Passarellas by Giannina Azar, which is just one of the shining examples of her artistry. She then followed with the main collection ‘Mirrors’, which focuses on reflective details and embellishments on the most delicate highquality textiles. Lavish and smouldering, in gold, silver, green, and ice white, each piece of Giannina’s Spring/Summer 2022 haute couture collection is rich in feel and quality. As the models walked, reflections from everywhere coloured their gowns. It’s genius how Giannina created gowns that transform according to the wearers’ environment.

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IHAB JIRYIS Closing the first day of the Couture Calendar, Spring/Summer 2022, Palestinian designer Ihab Jiryis, who prides himself on priming and evolving his brand, speaks through his elegant gowns with impressive detail. His collection is royal. From asymmetrical flounce pieces with a retro-inspired flare ruffled v-neck gown and bodysuits, Ihab’s brilliant designs have an ultra-feminine feel with nostalgic elements. Closing Ihab’s show and the first day of the Couture Calendar, Tunisian Dubai-based curvy model Ameni Esseibi, who was just named the first Curvy Ambassador to the Arab Fashion Council.

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HIAN TJEN X MAKEOVER Known for couture fashion, Hian Tjen has managed to carve a niche in the market for making elaborate detail-oriented pieces that are imaginative and dreamlike, melding sheer fabrics with classic Asian inspired prints and rich deep colourways. As expected, Hian triumphed with his Spring/Summer 2022 collection, from the complex and intricately designed beading to the conversational prints, his culture was heavily represented. Two-piece swimsuits and dresses featured landscape or miniature rural scenes. Spring took on a different element as gowns in soft, sheer blue fabric featured true jungle imagery with animals and creatively drawn foliage. Hian also had Asian-inspired prints on light quilted fabrics and blazers in traditional and non-traditional silhouettes. The show closer was impressive as the model wore a gold headdress, feathered floor-length coverall, and multicoloured Earth-toned gown. It was a great finish and definitely made a mark.

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LULU LIU The collections of Lulu Liu (Lulu Yilu), a figure in the fashion couture scene, are known for their modern silhouettes, brilliant colours, and conservative artistic styles. Gathered ruffles with feathered details and sparkling elements were expressed delicately throughout the Lulu Yilu Spring 2022 collection. Peplum-style and cocktail dresses, as well as gowns and an A-line dress, the collection’s colour coordination was excellent, and each item had an illuminating effect. In fact, patterns were likened to splashed paint. The petite and hugely talented LuLu brought a unique perspective to Haute couture this Spring 2022.

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DOROTA GOLDPOINT Dorota Goldpoint is an expressive Polish fashion designer with a goal to drape women in luxurious goods they will cherish forever. Her gowns are sewn from natural textiles of silk, satin, crepe, chiffon, and organza, so one knew, right away, what to anticipate in Dorata Goldpoints Haute Couture Collection. From the start, the wave of classic and timeless glamour ensued. The cuts were very conservative, with vintage floral prints and soft pink hues and collared gowns and gold embroidered details on the shoulders. The collection also featured fur, which helped it stay consistent with haute couture. The unexpected high-low style evolved into single satin layered petal-like fabrics as the show progressed. Capes and lengthy shawls were also featured. The vintage style of the entire collection is versatile and first-class. It’s a sophisticated and lavish conservative look. Dorota has a way of reintroducing the most timeless styles into the fold, thereby exposing the new class of haute couture enthusiasts to relatable modest fashion.

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MICHAEL CINCO Michael Cinco is impressive when it comes to couture fashion, with his clothing sporting Swarovski crystals on high-quality textiles. As usual, Michael Cinco’s presentation is not only a showcase of the new collection but also a show of emotions that continuously mesmerises the audience. For 20 minutes, the audience experienced breathtaking scenography and live storytelling at peak adrenalin. This season’s couture Spring/ Summer 2022 collection narrated the tree of life, and how glorious one can be at all ages, with all forms of shape and diversity. The collection also highlighted how the older generation passed on the glory to the younger ones. From the start, the white couture gowns, suits and outerwear were utterly fabulous. His collection had every trend in silhouette and trim, with each look having a sort of ‘eternal’ feel. More on-trend, the bodycon dress, two-piece dress sets, collared dress, and men’s utility jacket were bold and impeccable. Michael Cinco’s collection for Spring 2022 is a masterpiece in every way.

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BOUGUESSA French/Algerian Dubai-based brand, BOUGUESSA, is known for its sophisticated style, trans-seasonal and easy-to-wear garments. The brand’s creative director, Faiza Bouguessa, offers form-flattering clothing that’s rich with modern style. Fall-Winter 2022/23 is far into the future, but the BOUGUESSA collection makes one wish it would come sooner. The long trench coats featured in this collection are plush and oversized. Structured black suits with large button closures are creatively conventional. The white three-piece suit is a refreshing take on the traditional style that comes with an undershirt or blouse. The V-neck vest, cropped narrow trousers, and midthigh length blazer is sporty and modern. BOUGUESSA also showcased menswear looks, which are mainly sleek and more in tune with the demands of now. Its ready-to-wear collection is immortal.

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ABOUD JAMMAL The designs from the founder of Aboud’s house of couture, Aboud Jammal, are sophisticated with a modern approach to art with hypnotic, hallucinatory themes that contribute to an iconic brand. His vision for Fall/Winter 2022 is striking, and Aboud’s tasselled monochromatic pieces are a great example of a consistent theme for the season, movement. Tassels on blazers, trims and busts are alluring. There is even a piece formed from tassels into an ombre-style blouse. The chic all-white two-piece pants set is casually cool, which is what most would anticipate in ready-to-wear collections. Aboud’s collection has a beautiful versatility in formality. Every piece is appropriate for most occasions. Aboud’s has energetic, vibrant colours and an eclectic approach to Fall/Winter fashion.

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LILI BLANC Women who crave clothing with powerful lines and versatile silhouettes love Lili Blanc. It’s a socially and style-conscious brand whose creative director, Lili Blanc, is a master of inventive modern silhouettes. Black and white is a prominent colour theme in her collection for Fall/Winter 2022. The overall feel of the collection is exuberant, featuring baby doll-like dresses with sweet tie closures at the neck, knee-length Bermuda shorts, and miniskirts. Minor slits and v-cuts throughout the collection denote the minimalist direction that most fashion houses prefer for Fall. The Lili Blanc collection has clean lines and quality basic fabric, nothing but the essentials. The overall vibe of the collection is to be everlasting as conservative fashion should be an investment in style.

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WEINSANTO Victor Weinsanto’s Fall/Winter 2022 collection is simply magnificent. Let’s begin with the corset two-piece: faces transformed into hypnotic patterns were printed all over the set and in gorgeous arrays of purple hues. The same print was also on jumpsuits and various blouses in the collection. The cohesiveness of the collection is impressive, as everything was consistent with Victor’s theme. The black dresses are ‘sheer’ fantasy. His creative overlapping gown with haphazardly buttoned details is futuristic and bold. The quilted fabric theme showcased pieces transformed into pants and outerwear. Victor’s Fall/Winter collection is high-end and diverse in style.

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PEARLA PEARLA was founded by Emirati creative directors Hessa and Fatma Ali Aljoker, whose aesthetics of design are deeply seated in storytelling. What they showcased at the Arab Fashion Week proves how creative conservative fashion is, with lovely patterns that lift the spirit. Their Fall/Winter line is filled with luminous colour, interesting designs, and adorably feminine silhouettes. As the models walked, one could tell how light and breathable the ready-towear dresses were. The ankle-length gowns had creative designs on the busts, and creative designs on the yolk bring personality to the wearer. Tassels also featured on key pieces, and some silky pieces sported a nice tassel-trimmed scarf or rope-inspired waist tie. PEARLA’s collection for this upcoming spring is inspirational and uplifting.

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MADA’EN Bold, bright colours and asymmetrical flounce fabric details are gorgeously displayed in MADA’EN, the British/Jordanian label by creative director Farah Bseiso. In 2016, she started Maison MADA’EN, which represents her haute couture and ready-to-wear designs. Her ultra-feminine styles, with lush, layered delicate textiles, are imaginative and enchanting. The Fall/Winter 2022 “Rare” collection is arbitrary in a fun and exciting way. Every piece in the collection is based on bodysuits. The soft cream gowns with that glowing peach hue are formal, including the cocktail dress with its soft, ruffled chiffon-tulle fabric throughout. The fitted white jumpsuit has star potential and works with the matching ruffled fluffy black top. There were no patterns or prints, just simply brilliant colours and alluring silhouettes. Farah Bseiso’s vision of Fall/Winter is dynamically rare and fun.

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EMERGENCY ROOM EMERGENCY ROOM, a Lebanon-based brand that utilises sustainable methods of garment construction, was launched by Eric Mathieu Ritter. Its vintage materials and deadstock fabrics are sourced locally and provided to create authentic ready-to-wear pieces. The brand’s Fall/Winter 2022 collection is a sight to behold. Completely urban-cool and trendy, the tapestry and patchwork-inspired designs are upbeat and fresh. The hats carried the ever-present tassel theme that is represented throughout Arab Fashion week. The styles were complementary and scantily clad: strapless corsets, bralettes, cropped tops, mini-skirts, and wide-leg trousers. The collection’s colour palette has a deep undertone with vibrant pops of white, red and orange, making its emergence on bodycon dresses through colour accents. The rustic and metropolitan style of Ritter’s ready-to-wear collection is clear in the cuts and relaxed styling. The longer garments, such as the full-length dresses and wide-leg midwaist styles, feature African-inspired prints. Ritter’s collection is not just fabulous; it speaks of awareness and a ‘moving forward’ of fashion. Whatever is underground or unappreciated, he brings to life in all its glory.

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ILYES OUALI A brand that stands out for ingenuity and classic Algerian design, Ilyes has a bold vision and is known for its signature piping and rope details. At the heart of his clothing lies diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability. In his approach to the various popular silhouettes for Arab Fashion week, Ilyes Ouali is very imaginative. The fabrics are very lightweight, if not transparent. His calf-length dress with intricately placed sparkling rope-like detail is enchanting and formal. The contrasting greys and lime green colours made the collection visually balanced. Every piece is gorgeously breathable and lively. Ilyes Ouali’s collection is high-end yet approachable, with an ultra-cool modern aesthetic.

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SARA ALTWAIM Sara Altwaim, a Saudi Arabian designer with an undeniable elegance in her designs, incorporated the beautiful traditional embroidery and lace fabric with modern cuts and trending details in her latest designs. Renaissance style with rococo-inspired prints is what best describes her Fall Collection for 2022. For a ready-to-wear collection, she certainly gave a plethora of options for casual, formal garments. Asymmetrical gowns sported lace fitted structures and were styled with blazers over a white button-down. There were also the sheer neutral-coloured dress designs with conversational rococo prints. The designer has a way of transforming trends into living iconic pieces. From the ‘gentle lady’ styles to the gown, Sara Altwaim’s collection was truly amazing and invoked emotions that aligned with love and angelic grace.

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AMERICAN RAG The US-inspired brand American Rag is a staple in exclusive fashion and ready-to-wear. They feature more than 200 brands for both men and women and boast of having the Middle East’s largest denim bar. Aside from clothing, American Rag carries designer sneakers. American Rag has something for everyone, whether it’s the classic vintage fashionista or the youthful hip-culture of today. And this was on display with the range of drawstring cargo pants, biker shorts sets, wide-leg high-water pants, distressed high-waist denim styled with various tops.

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ALL’S Committed to delivering high-quality and sophisticated clothing, social and environmental awareness is at the core of ALL’S building its reputation of luxury. ALL’S collection for Fall/Winter 2022 is resilient, with designer Tatsiana looking for sturdy, breathable textiles and freeflowing designs. As a whole, the collection showcases the subtle extravagant sophistication of ready-to-wear. From the neutral colour palettes on modest styles to fully vibrant colour schemes, ALL’S created bodysuits, cinched waist rompers with flounce details, and flowing asymmetrical floor-sweeping gowns. As is tradition with conservative fashion, there are voluminous non-traditional styles, such as a short sleeve blazer dress set with a sailor-like vintage collar and cute, oversized pockets. The show closed with an awe-inspiring look: a gown with lush arrays of soft sheer fabric, overlapping mini satin dress and flounced asymmetrical sleeve. Exceptional is only one word to describe ALL’S Fall/Winter collection for 2022.

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BORN IN EXILE Haunting yet enchanting is how to describe the brand, Born in Exile. Created by Libyan fashion designer Ibrahim Shebani, the brand brought a fierce and rogue vibe to Arab Fashion week. Starting with his outerwear: leather motor-style, denim bomber, varsity, and fleece-lined metallic style jackets were featured. The blouse with buttons on the neck, down the bust, and along the sleeves was an original piece and was styled alluring on the model in sensible black trousers. In the Born in Exile collection, Denim is used graciously as indigo blue made an appearance. Red design prints on outerwear had a cultural reference and denoted Libyan culture. That art is also on his accessory overlays, created to bring a cool sensibility to the already ‘rock star’ like pieces. Overall, the collection has an exuberant, sporty vitality to it. A puffer skirt in green with matching jacket was also a nice element to add to the lineup of masculine structured pieces. Born in Exile did not fails in bringing unique style to Arab Fashion Week.

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GOSIA BACZYNSKA An internationally known designer, Gosia Baczynska’s work, The Gosia Brand, has always been synonymous with power in Arab fashion. Ready-to-wear has taken an enlightening and expansive direction for her Fall/Winter 2022 collection. From the silver, black, grey, and deep purple solid textured two-piece sets to the sparkling draped calf-length gowns with peek-a-boo cutout collars, there was certainly a warrior vibe that resonated with Gosia Baczynska’s collection. The thick fur shawl accessory was combined elegantly with a spaghetti strap slinky fitted dress with shimmering matching boots finishing the look. The hooded jumpsuit and dress ensemble gave a powerful ‘Joan d arc’ vibe, while the padded shoulder catsuit as well as the cropped leather jacket, outfitted with the lush fur sash, were effortlessly chic. Even the black silky hooded gown gave a sort of deity imagery. It’s no surprise that her Fall/Winter collection would feature clothes that have that powerful essence.

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POCA & POCA The talented sibling duo of Karolina and Wiktor Gniewek have taken the fashion world by storm with POCA & POCA; their passion for unique fabrics and details helped them showcase one of the most enticing, charismatic and charming ready-towear collections of the season. POCA & POCA has vitality in design, and though its pieces are retro, they translate well for the younger generations. The dresses that were featured during the Arab Fashion Week all have classic 80s party dress silhouettes. The more modest looks are layered and draped with asymmetrical cut hems, and the sturdier fabrics were in black and had textured print details. Karoline and Wiktor’s understanding of women’s everyday life is evident as all the styles can be worn from work to play. The colour palette is also subtle and can easily fit into many formal events. Bag accessories that doubled as a belt is a great styling technique that brought all the looks into the trend.

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FRANCESCA LIBERATORE Italian designer Francesca Liberatore, with her namesake brand, evokes an undeniable feeling of emotion in her collections. Smart suits with shimmering fabrics, blazers form dresses, and sparkling accessories give her collection just the right edginess. There is a very ‘my fair lady’ vibe to Francesca’s Fall/Winter 2022/23 collection. The use of the lace is impressive, whether it is worked into an ensemble as an underlay or as an accent. The patterns were distinct to the collection and gave each model a very ethereal appeal, plus the designer’s colour coordination was on point. It’s difficult to pick a favourite because every piece is fantastic in its own unique way.

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NOUVELLE SILK A South African native, the creator of Nouvelle Silk, Joanne Snodgrass, is a fan of luxury with a speciality in silk, and her glamorous brand speaks to sensuality in everyday fashion. Every look from Nouvelle Silk was smooth and graceful—the golden dress, with its clever loop, the cinched blazer and pants combo set, the mid-calf skirt and rich purple blouse, the mild green floor-length dress—and truly ready-to-wear. The deeper tones of silver, steel grey, deep blue, and berry gave options in style to those who adore Nouvelle Silks flattering Fall/Winter silhouettes but need something a bit more subtle in colour. Neutral brown chocolate tones looked splendid on the models, and the blue, fuchsia, purple, and lime green silken fabrics were also fashioned into loose and luxurious silhouettes. Then came the black and white styles, still with the same great wrap and robe design but monochromatic. Nouvelle Silk presented a collection that is conventional, breezy, bright, and bold.

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DEATH BY DOLLS Sara Al-Saud, a Saudi fashion designer, and her sister created Death By Dolls, a fierce and unapologetic brand that releases the rebel within. And that it did for its Fall/Winter 2022/23 collection. Whether it was the sparkling skirt overlay on two-piece pinstriped button-down shorts set or the halter tie-dye sundresses with spaghetti strap details, models strut in eclectic pieces with quirky, iconic details. Bold and daring are the most expressive words that describe the collection, with all the styles being impeccable.

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SEMSEM The Egypt-born designer Abeer Al Otaiba, responsible for the SemSem brand, is capable of transforming beauty into runway-ready art. With her most recent collection featuring metallic fabrics and bold, saturated green shades, the layered designs and conservative flare are bound to appeal to the sophisticated and classy woman. From full-length butterfly gowns and fitted sharp-shouldered cocktail dresses to the monochromatic blouse and trouser set featured, the pieces in SEMSEM are reminiscent of seashells and beautiful sea coral, highlighted by the moonlight. As the models walked, the fabric flowed like the ocean, and the gold details gave a very old Hollywood glamour vibe. Abeer is a designer whose passion radiates and inspires, which was evident in the elements of old-school charm and the subtle theme of oceanic influence at the showing.

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AMATO AMATO, which stands for ‘beloved’, is a brand that makes the fashion elite swoon. Designer Furne One partnered with textile expert Rashid Ali to create this avant-garde and luxurious brand, which also just launched its ready-to-wear line. Depicting an array of solid white, beaded, glimmering garments, there was certainly a ‘marriage’ in the style of the Fall/Winter 2022/23 collection, with long, regal cape overlays having leaf-like raised details on the shoulder and acting as a wedding-like train, as each model walked the runway. From AMATO’s two-piece set, romper and strapless bustier to the show-stopping crop top and see-through mesh dresses with glittering 3-D details, its collection is unforgettable.

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ESCAPE TO MAURITIUS

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ICONIC DESIGNER BAGS

AND THE WOMEN WHO INSPIRED THEM

From Jane Birkin and Princess Diana to Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, it’s no secret designers find inspiration from their muses in specific models, actresses, singers and, in some cases, royalty. Over the years, the world of fashion has seen specific designer bags cement their spots as some of the most iconic and distinctive to date—thanks, in no small part, to the style icons who consistently wore them. On occasion, these women wore the handbags so often that some designer labels renamed them in their honour. Take a look at some of the women behind the most iconic designer bags we’ve come to know and love:

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JANE BIRKIN

FOR THE HERMÈS BIRKIN Though the name “Birkin” is steeped in luxury connotations now, in the 80s, it was simply the name of a world-famous It girl: Jane Birkin. According to Hermès, the creator of the famous Birkin bag, the multi-hyphenate star was flying from Paris to London in 1984 and while speaking to the gentleman next to her, Birkin was “complaining that she couldn’t find a bag suitable for her needs as a young mother”. The man commented that she should have a bag with pockets, to which Birkin replied: “The day Hermès makes one with pockets, I will have that.” It turned out, the man she said that to was the executive chairman of Hermés, Jean-Louis Dumas. He told Jane that he worked for Hermès and would make one with pockets just for her, leading to the birth of the nowlegendary Birkin bag.

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PRINCESS DIANA

FOR CHRISTIAN DIOR LADY DIOR Initially called the Chouchou, the ever-popular Lady Dior bag was reportedly gifted to Diana, Princess of Wales, by Bernadette Chirac, the former first lady of France in 1995. The princess apparently carried it almost everywhere she went. In 1996, Dior officially renamed the Chouchou to the Lady Dior bag in honour of the late princess.

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AUDREY HEPBURN

FOR LOUIS VUITTON SPEEDY Like Onassis, the Speedy 25 became synonymous with the legendary actress after she was seen and photographed almost everywhere wearing it. The Louis Vuitton Speedy bag came in three different sizes, 30, 35 and 40 centimetres, and was extremely convenient for travelling. After the success of her hit movie “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” Hepburn asked if a smaller, 25-centimetre version of the Speedy could be made so that she could carry it on a daily basis. Thus, the Speedy 25 was born.

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JACQUELINE KENNEDY ONASSIS FOR GUCCI JACKIE

The Jackie bag was initially called the Fifties Constance. Onassis wore her Fifties Constance everywhere, which made the hobo bag extremely popular and synonymous with the former first lady. The label brought back the bag during Gucci’s fall 2021 show, with a more contemporary twist. The Jackie bag now comes in various colourways and has been seen on the likes of Harry Styles, Elle Fanning and Cate Blanchett, proving its timelessness and versatility.

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RICKY LAUREN

FOR RALPH LAUREN RICKY BAG It’s natural to find a muse in your own wife, which Ralph Lauren did when designing his Ricky bag. The purse was introduced into the designer’s permanent collection in 2005, inspired by his wife Ricky’s classic and equestrian chic style. Lauren wed Ricky Ann Loew-Beer in December 1964. They have three children.

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GRACE KELLY

FOR HERMÈS KELLY The famous actress-turned princess was known to carry her now-namesake Hermès bag before the label even named it after her. Kelly, who married into the Monegasque royal family in 1956, was reportedly first seen carrying the Kelly bag when she was filming Alfred Hitchcock’s “To Catch a Thief”. Hitchcock reportedly allowed the costume designer, Edith Head, to work with the French label for the movie. After her wedding to Prince Rainier III, Kelly often used the bag to hide her baby bump from photographers during outings. In 1977, Hermès renamed the bag the Hermès Kelly bag.

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SOPHIA LOREN FOR SALVATORE FERRAGAMO SOFIA

Italian actress and style icon Sophia Loren was known to be close to Ferragamo. Though many stars loved the designer’s creations, including Marilyn Monroe and Judy Garland, Loren was a loyal customer to the label over the years, known to wear his custom heels. When Ferragamo passed away in 1960, his family took over the business. In 2009, they launched the Sofia bag in honour of Loren and her continued loyalty to the luxury fashion house.

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Fashion

FASHION FROM

THE RED CARPET

AT THE 2022 OSCARS The Academy Awards returned to the red carpet in full flurry, and with that came the major fashion moments. The red carpet was dominated by the likes of Alana Haim in custom silver Louis Vuitton, Lupita Nyong’o in shimmering gold Prada, and Jessica Chastain, glistening in Gucci. Here, see the best dressed from the 2022 Oscars.

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THE 2022 OSCAR WINNERS ARE: BEST PICTURE

“CODA”

BEST ACTOR

WILL SMITH (“KING RICHARD”) BEST ACTRESS

JESSICA CHASTAIN (“THE EYES OF TAMMY FAYE”)

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BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

TROY KOTSUR (“CODA”) BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS

ARIANA DEBOSE (“WEST SIDE STORY”) BEST DIRECTOR

JANE CAMPION (“THE POWER OF THE DOG”) BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY

“CODA” (SIAN HEDER)

BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY

“BELFAST” (KENNETH BRANAGH)

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BEST COSTUME DESIGN

“CRUELLA” (JENNY BEAVAN) BEST SOUND

“DUNE”

BEST ORIGINAL SCORE

“DUNE” (HANS ZIMMER) BEST ANIMATED SHORT FILM

“THE WINDSHIELD WIPER” BEST SHORT DOCUMENTARY

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IT WOULDN’T BE THE OSCARS WITHOUT VANITY FAIR It wouldn’t be the Oscars without the Vanity Fair afterparty’s blue carpet. This year saw a slew of bold, daring and vibrant hues at the annual afterparty on the night of Sunday, March 27, with black and white dominating the colour palette for most standout fashion moments and a dash of jewels and sequins. Those who attended included Anya Taylor-Joy, Zendaya, Timothée Chalamet, Kendall Jenner, Kim Kardashian, Dakota Johnson, Gabrielle Union, Dwyane Wade, Chrissy Teigen, John Legend, and many more. In her usual red-carpet fashion, Taylor-Joy wore a sheer, tulle, see-through corset dress by Dior and jewellery by Tiffany & Co. She is an ambassador for both brands. Zendaya traded in her custom Valentino two-piece set she wore for the ceremony for a fitted suit by Sportmax and jewellery by Bulgari. Jenner and Kardashian were in attendance, with both sisters wearing creations by Balenciaga. Kardashian, who usually opts to wear designs by the Paris-based fashion house, donned a long-sleeve bright blue dress with a long train, while Jenner wore a dramatic black strapless dress. “Euphoria” star Sydney Sweeney wore a sequined bustier gown with a lavender purple skirt by Miu Miu, styling her hair in an updo with bangs and strands of hair framing her face. Some stars went backless in their dresses, such as Zoë Kravitz and Camila Morrone, who wore designs by Saint Laurent and Alexandre Vauthier. The party also witnessed the appearance of power couples strutting the blue carpet, such as Sofía Vergara and Joe Manganiello, Union and Wade, Teigen and Legend, and Michael B Jordan and Lori Harvey. They finally made their redcarpet debut as a couple since they started dating over a year ago.

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Beauty

BEST ANTI-AGEING CREAMS AND SERUMS It is an age-old concern (no pun intended), but people are always on the hunt for tips to better care for their largest organ—the skin—and finding the best antiageing creams and serums is just part of that wider search. Mayo Clinic says one way to help tackle wrinkles, which is a natural part of ageing, is by moisturisers, as dry skin shrivels plump skin cells, leading to premature fine lines and wrinkles. However, moisturisers may not be able to prevent the signs of ageing altogether, but they may temporarily mask tiny lines and creases, according to the academic medical centre. We know how important it is to find a cream or serum that works for you, so while we are not saying this is an exhaustive list, we’ve put together our picks for the five best anti-ageing creams and serums that you can access in the UAE.

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OLAY REGENERIST MICRO-SCULPTING FACE CREAM According to Olay, having sold more than 50 million jars, the Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Face Cream is designed to diminish wrinkles and fine lines. It is infused with vitamin B3, amino-peptides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants to aid penetration and improve elasticity. The moisturiser is recommended for use as the last step in one’s routine to leave the skin hydrated with softened fine lines and wrinkles while showing off a firm look. The brand recommends daily use of the moisturiser to see skin transformation in 28 days.

You can find Olay Regenerist MicroSculpting Face Cream here for AED 115.

EUCERIN HYALURON FILLER ANTI-AGING ANTI-WRINKLE DAY CREAM Promising to fill, stimulate and defend the skin, the day cream from the Eucerin Hyaluron Filler family has reportedly been clinically and dermatologically proven to deliver multiple anti-ageing benefits. Using a blend of Hyaluronic Acid and Glycine Saponin, the Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler day cream is reported to deliver a more targeted approach to visibly plumping even deep wrinkles, improving hydration and smoothing the outermost layers of skin.

You can check it out for yourself. It is being sold for AED 201.

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REVITALIFT DERM INTENSIVES 1.5% PURE HYALURONIC ACID REPLUMPING AMPOULES The recommendation is to use twice daily or bring ampoules to prep skin when travelling, recovering from a night out, after the beach, or a job interview, as the Revitalift Derm Intensives promises to visibly plump skin. Each individual ampoule is said to contain an optimal amount of hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin, and after one ampoule, expect the skin to look visibly smoother and feel hydrated. The brand says that after the seven ampoules, the skin is expected to look healthier and replumped, and wrinkles visibly reduced.

Want to try the wrinkle-reducing hyaluronic acid serum? It is available for AED 106 here.

SKINCEUTICALS DAILY MOISTURE This daily moisturiser may benefit people with signs of ageing. In fact, customer reviews attest to that, plus its lightweight nature. SkinCeuticals lists its benefits as restoring and maintaining moisture, being formulated with botanical extracts to help reduce the appearance of pore size, protecting skin from environmental damage, leaving skin with a smooth, non-greasy finish, and being ideal for normal to oily skin.

It is available here for AED 470.

MURAD RESURGENCE RETINOL YOUTH RENEWAL SERUM Said to be backed by science to optimise skin wellness, this serum combines three retinol technologies and hyaluronic acid to reduce the look of wrinkles in a promised two weeks. Retinoid, a time-released retinol and a retinol booster help fight lines or deep wrinkles, even skin tone and boost radiance, essentially helping to minimise the signs of ageing.

It is going for AED 224 here.

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Lifestyle

REBRANDING:

INNER DISCOVERY FOR OUTER PRESENTATION “If you don’t like the road you’re walking, pave another one.”

—Dolly Parton

Corporations often rebrand their products, improving the content and changing the packaging to increase sales. Celebrities reinvent their looks to catch our attention and grow viewership. Personal rebranding can be a powerful tool in advancing our career, changing our business, building our entrepreneurial ventures, and, most importantly, positively influencing our private life.

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OUTSIDE IMPACT “Inspiration exists, but it must find you working.”

— Pablo Picasso

The environment around us changes quickly. We do our best to fit into new situations and circumstances, and in the process of these adjustments, we might lose a sense of who we are, where we want to be, and what is important to us. Sometimes, we are complacent with external trends and influences despite their conflicting effect on our values, talents and passions. At the same time, the challenges we encounter might cause us to toughen up, prompting us to question ourselves and our conditions. We aspire to more meaningful transformation, building our confidence, fulfilling our ambitions, utilising our talents and skills, looking for a more profound self-definition, and reaching our set goals. We wish to feel happy, inside and out.

DESIRE FOR CHANGE “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.”

— Albert Einstein

We want our personal life to be fascinating and fulfilling, in harmony with our merits. Yet, preoccupied with our daily routines, we may settle with accepting the situation, delaying reinventing ourselves. To monitor our progress, advancement in life, growth, and development, it is beneficial to do periodic checks of where we stand in life as individuals and professionals. Without this process, the energy of change accumulates, striking us unexpectedly with unpleasant life events and triggering a necessity to reinvent oneself. It is much better to be proactive and in control of our destiny, systematically moving forward, rather than being conditioned by it.

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HELLO, NEW PERSONA “To find yourself, think for yourself.”

— Socrates

Various makeover articles and television shows present us with instant image changes. A new outfit, hairstyle and a few cosmetic treatments make for a modern-day Cinderella transformation. However, these programmes almost never follow up on how sustainable and long-lasting the changes were. Usually, we tend to fall back into our default unless our changes are profound, most importantly, transforming our inner persona to achieve the desired outer appearance. Such transformation is a creation and reinvention of oneself based on the inner voice, personal talents and abilities. It takes time and effort. This deep process of selfdiscovery and growth is a marathon, not a sprint.

REBRANDING PROCESS “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.”

— Steve Jobs

Creating our new image is a very individualistic process. It is not about styling to resemble someone else or posing to copy the life of others. It is a self-discovery process, structuring the being from the ground up, building a foundation to understand natural talents, acquired skills, and personal style. It is about forming and following your own path.

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FIRSTLY, WE FOCUS ON PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT “Absorb what is useful, reject what is useless, add what is specifically your own.”

— Bruce Lee

Take time to connect with yourself. Go as far as your childhood, if necessary, to work on your traumas and subconscious reactions to different situations to solve deeply rooted issues and limitations. Think of your difficulties in life and how they correlate directly to you, your behaviour, reactions, and actions, or lack thereof.

SECONDLY, WE WORK ON OUR BODIES “Be yourself, everyone else is already taken.”

— Oscar Wilde

Our body immediately reacts to stress-related situations, increasing the amount of cortisol. We might feel the tension in our muscles or experience a headache. Fever and chills may indicate a weakened immune system. Mental factors such as stress, internal conflict, and anxiety may cause a physical reaction. Stay true to yourself and your values. This will help you to remain calm and composed in various difficult situations. Understand the level of your compromises. Follow your intuition by listening to your inner voice.

Examine alternative scenarios of various events and circumstances to determine how you could have achieved a positive outcome but do not become obsessive about it, always remembering that the past cannot be changed. Instead, use your experience to be better prepared for similar circumstances in the future.

Acknowledge if something is off, either in your personal or professional life. Once there is an initial emotional lesson, tactfully and courageously discuss the issue with your partner, a family member or friend.

Contemplate all your thoughts, reflecting equally on your positive and negative impressions. This will allow you to ground yourself and have a wellrounded perspective. Success is the effect of our analysis and our actions. If we do not experience desired effects, we should look into inner limitations blocking us from attaining our goals.

Choose alternatives to sugar, replacing daily doses of sweets with fresh and dry fruits such as dates, figs, nuts, and magnesium-rich dark chocolate. Choose a low-carb diet and herbal teas. Exercise regularly. Select activities that are best for you, depending on your mood and body type.

Your talents are your cores, your signature. Analyse them. What are you naturally good at, and what activities bring you joy? Return to your hobbies and passions if you have abandoned them and think of ways to implement them in your work, if possible. Identify your value proposition by showcasing your acquired skills and natural attributes. It takes time and effort. This deep process of selfdiscovery and growth is a marathon, not a sprint.

A healthy diet and lifestyle, as well as self-development, might help us to battle our tension.

You might want to take meditation or yoga classes to calm, balance, and unify your system, or opt for cardio and strength training to release tension. We cannot control the outside world; however, we can control our reactions to what is happening around us. We need to analyse our surroundings and accept what is good and beneficial for our growth and development. Detaching from what is around us, no matter the circumstances, gives the rest to our body and mind. Allocate “me” time to find inner peace and relaxation, staying away from daily noise and routine. Out & About Magazine

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THIRDLY, WE CHANGE OUR LOOK “If you’re your authentic self, you have no competition.”

— Scott Stratten

Hear and speak from your heart. Being real, genuine and authentic will instantly change your look, and your expression. Kindness will place a smile on your face. Happiness is natural to us. Boost your enthusiasm by appreciating little moments, nature’s beauty, and small gestures. Glow with inner contentment, calm demeanour, and affection. To underline our inner changes, we can then decide to refresh our wardrobe to align with our new path. We might want to consult a trusted stylist to help us choose the right colours and modern styles, according to our body type and new image. We might need to part with many outfits that no longer suit us and instead create a perfect capsule collection reflecting our rebranded personality. To conclude our transformation and add an extra spark, we might visit a hair salon to bring liveliness and an edge to our hairstyle. A brand ambassador or accredited business consultant can design our website with the right fonts and logo, and advise us on presenting our new image on social media and in business if we are a face or a direct representation of our venture. It takes time and effort. This deep process of self-discovery and growth is a marathon, not a sprint.

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DEFINING VALUES “Too many people overvalue what they are not and undervalue what they are.”

— Malcolm Forbes

It is good to know what we like and want. It is equally important to understand what we do not tolerate, cannot do, and are not fond of. Defining our boundaries gives us structure and helps us to stay true to our principles. From fashion to lifestyle, we hear how we are supposed to look and live to be “it”. We might pretend to be someone we are not. We might surround ourselves with items that we do not need. We succumb to trends and standards, compromising our values and unique, individualistic approach. The key is to acknowledge that each person represents a distinctive character, experiences, skills, and talents, and keeps developing and mastering such qualities, creating a role and an image alignment with self-representation. To find a particular path, start with an open and honest look at your life, exploring the past, analysing the present, and defining the future.

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OWN YOUR LIFE AND YOUR STORY “The more you like yourself, the less you are like anyone else, which makes you unique.”

— Walt Disney

You are number one. Love and respect yourself, your opinions, and your story. Your life is your unique journey. Not everyone will agree with you. There is no point in wasting time convincing others of your principles. Instead, thoughtfully and politely accept the individuality and uniqueness of others, for them to return the same esteem to you. Keep it real. Be proud of your profound rebranding changes, of creating a more meaningful relationship with yourself. This will help you form valuable connections with others as well, both in personal and professional endeavours. Embrace your imperfections. These flaws helped you to rediscover yourself and initiate the process of creating your new persona. Trust yourself and be honest with your choices. It is not about what others want or how they want you to be. Follow your vision, remaining congruent and in harmony with yourself, your objectives, and your lifestyle.

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“It is our choices that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.”

— J.K. Rowling

Anna is a corporate consulting professional experienced in international capital markets, finance, and innovative technologies. Being an effective communicator, negotiator, and strategic management ambassador focused on growth and development, she served as a Director of Business Development at various organisations and has been called upon to serve as a judge and mentor at various financial and entrepreneurial competitions. She studied Blockchain technology at York University, Lassonde School of Engineering, Strategic Business Management and Negotiations at Harvard University, and received her accreditations from the Canadian Securities Institute. Fascinated with a holistic approach to life and business, and wanting to understand the human mind and human behaviour, Anna studied foundations of psychology at Yale University.

About the author

ANNA NIEMIRA

She is a media personality known for her stage presence at various speaking engagements, popular talks, and interviews with progressive, innovative technology entrepreneurs, industry influencers, and idea trendsetters.

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PRACTICAL POST-PANDEMIC FOR YOUR OFFICE AND IDEAS LEISURE SPACES How do you feel about integrating the latest immunityboosting, post-pandemic practices in your office and residential spaces? Have you thought of the idea of having an environment within your home, office and leisure facilities that protects and strengthens you, your employees’ and customers’ health? The following are a few easy-to-implement post-pandemic practices in your office and leisure spaces. If you are working in a hotel or a residential building, typically, your fitness, spa and wellness centres would be essential to implement them without having to break the bank and creating an added value for the well-being of you and your guests.

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AROMATHERAPY Essential oils at your work or office spaces can either fortify the immune system or eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses. While all essential oils contain antibacterial, antiviral, and antiseptic properties to some extent, some essential oils have more of one than the other. Depending on their characteristics, essential oils can fight viruses, purify the air, alleviate flu-like symptoms, and bring comfort during illness. Besides the biological factors, essential oils also provide a psychological benefit. Essential oils derived from herbs such as lavender and rosemary promote relaxation by reducing stress levels (cortisol).

How to create your SPA immune boost blend: Recipe for 10ml = 200 drops • Lemon 100 drops • Eucalyptus globulus 60 drops • Tea tree 25 drops • Rosemary 10 drops • Clove 5 drops What are the benefits of each oil and why choose them? Eucalyptus globulus not only has a refreshing fragrance and cleansing properties, but supports respiratory illness relief by opening the respiratory tract and soothing painful coughs. Lemon essential oil uplifts the mood, alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, and enhances the production of lymphocytes, the body’s main type of immune cells.

You could easily prepare your own signature blend by mixing the ingredients below and improvising with your preferences, adding more or less of the oils in the blend. Keep your blend a secret once you find out the best fusion for each season and time of the day.

Rosemary protects you from airway illnesses, reduces cortisol levels, and increases your immune system’s strength..

Typically, the citrusy, punchy aromas are good for the morning when the body is waking up. However, for the evening, choose aromas such as lavender, rosemary, patchouli, ylang-ylang et cetera.

Clove supports strong antimicrobial and antifungal properties that cleanse harmful molecules from the air.

Tea tree essential oil fights infections and inhibits harmful bacteria due to high levels of alpha-sabine and antiseptic qualities.

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LIGHTING Our circadian clock controls the timing of hundreds of biological processes in our bodies. When your circadian rhythm is strong and tightly synchronised, you sleep better at night, feel more alert during the day and your immune system is fully equipped to fight against viruses and bacteria. A 2016 study from the University of Cambridge, England reported that knocking out BMal1, the key circadian clock gene, triples the rate of virus replication in animal studies. How to strengthen the circadian clock in leisure and office spaces: The light is the guide of your centre. In other words, it’s the light that directs the energy of the spaces and it’s the light that has the strongest influence on your and your guest’s sensation and comfort.

Shower areas With new LED technologies, you could reduce and control both light quantity and colour, as desired. The lighting fixtures need to have a greater IP protection rate inside the shower areas to protect against dirt and water. If it’s not possible to achieve indirect light, try at least to direct the light sources towards the walls. That creates a magical cosy ambience without undermining the visual comfort.

This is the reason the lighting design needs to fit perfectly into your entire facility. Always consult a professional in this process rather than relying only on your classic, trusted electrician.

You can try using RGB LED lights that have three diodes in red, green and blue. These are mixed in different intensities to produce different colours, such as red, green and blue for chromotherapy.

To promote molecular wellness and level up the health of our cells, you need to fine-tune your circadian rhythms by managing your light exposure Humans need blue-rich light during the day, but the average person spends 93 per cent of the daytime indoors away from natural light and gets too much blue-rich electric light after the sun sets. This unbalanced exposure to blue light such as LEDs, fluorescent bulbs, and incandescent bulbs can interrupt normal sleep patterns and lower immunity.

For hotel massage/therapy rooms Many times, the treatment rooms are designed with a modern lighting system to dim and brighten the lights, however, many therapists, not being used to that, are simply switching it off before every treatment.

Relaxation In the lighting design of your relaxation spaces, 162

the most common mistake is to add too many lighting fixtures, which spread an excessive amount of light and spoil the primary end result—the customer’s relaxation. Inside the relaxation areas, the light needs to be mostly soft and indirect. The temperature must be with a warm colour, between a minimum of 2200 K and a maximum of 3000 K (the spectrum of orange and yellow colours).

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The massage room spaces need to be immersed in indirect or filtered LED lighting that is soft, lowintensity, very warm light to transport the customer into a feeling of relaxation and comfortability. The switch must be customisable through a light dimmer.

SANITATION AND VISUAL PRESENTATION Residences, hotels and leisure centres can do much better in terms of presentation of the COVID-19 precautions and hand sanitisers. Think about the way you represent your message though visual signage and do it in an appealing and inviting way for the guest to use. The smell of the sanitiser could be much more pleasant, if you would mix a few drops of essential oils, such as lemongrass or tea tree, and present it in a beautiful spray bottle at easy-to-reach guest spots. How effective are the hand sanitisers and are they causing more harm than good? The FDA recently released a list of nine hand sanitisers that contain methanol alcohol, a type of wood alcohol that can be toxic when absorbed by the skin. It is always advisable to read the labels before buying these or what is even safer, do it yourself. How can you make your own sanitiser? Try this simple recipe with only three ingredients: • A cup of isopropyl or rubbing alcohol (91% alcohol) • ½ cup aloe vera gel • 15 drops antibacterial essential oil of your choice, such as Tea Tree Oil To produce a batch of germ-fighting natural hand sanitiser, you must mix all three ingredients together

with a 2:1 ratio of alcohol to aloe vera. This ensures that the alcohol content stays at around 60 per cent, as recommended by the World Health Organisation. For a visually appealing display, you could install an automated hand sanitiser dispenser at the entrance of working and guests’ spaces. Ultimately, your aim is to send an important message to them the moment they step into your space: your business takes protecting health and well-being seriously. Cleaning and disinfecting mini-checklist: If you work with an outsourced housekeeping or cleaning company, ensure they do not miss the following areas as they get most of the finger traffic every day, and it’s equally important to disinfect them as frequently as after every touch. • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Remote controls Alarm clocks and timers Landline phones Cabinet and drawers Drawer handles Doorknobs and door locks Light switches Desk surfaces Information booklets and brochures Minibar drinks and coffee bars Faucets and handles Massages tables and chairs Changing cabinets

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COLOUR THERAPY Did you know that a daily dose of colour may boost immunity? If you still could transform the interior design and bring in some colours, perhaps as paintings or art décor, take advantage of the immunityboosting properties of the below colours. This might indeed be essential advice right now toward strengthening your and your guests’ health and well-being levels. Orange This colour is used to increase immunity and help in all digestive ailments and chest and kidney diseases. Orange will have a gentle warming effect, if used lightly. Orange, like red, should not be used for too long. It is not a good colour for nervous people or people easily agitated. White White includes all of the colour’s spectrum. It represents the source of conscious creation

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and purifies the body on the highest levels. It is the highest charging field to bring peace and comfort. In Hinduism, white is symbolic of Pure Consciousness—sattva—upward movement, the light and manifestation. Silver Silver is the colour of peace and persistence. It is the major purging colour, so it is said to be very good for removing unwanted diseases and troubles from the body. It is the best for aiding the cancer-healing process, and any type of tissue inflammation and blood purification. Gold Gold represents the alchemy of consciousness. It is the strongest colour to help cure all illnesses. It is so strong that many people are not able to tolerate it, so people have to be conditioned to gold over a period of time. Gold strengthens all fields of the body and spirit.

Our immune systems help to keep bacteria, toxins and viruses at bay, and prevent us from getting sick from the diseases they cause. Immune systems further help remove unhealthy or infectious cells from our bodies and regulate the body’s responses to otherwise harmless activity (whether food or our own bodies). Immunity superpowers There’s no magic “healthy pill”, there are tried-and-true ways to take your immunity superpowers up a notch. To prevent or fight disease, it’s always good to use as many natural ways to keep the immune system highfunctioning. The idea of boosting your immunity is enticing, but is that possible at all? The immune system functions as a system and not as a single entity, therefore, it requires balance and harmony within all related systems inside out. Similarly, your natural environment needs to project and portray a safe and healthy way of living for your body. Follow the alternative ways above to enhance your body’s natural defence mechanism and leverage the immunity of your home, work, and leisure spaces.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

VYARA TOSHEVA

Wellness, Spa and Retreats Business Consultant In over 19 years, Vyara Tosheva has gained professional experience in hospitality, leisure and wellbeing. Vyara graduated in Tourism Management and holds a Master’s Degree in Psychology and Sociology. She also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Tourism, as well as internationallyaccredited certification courses in Hospitality and Spa Management. She travels the world to enhance her expertise through further certifications in Ayurveda, Wellness and Fitness Consultancy, Coaching and Psychology.

visiting master practitioners, energy workers and doctors combine their knowledge with fitness, spa and beauty professionals to deliver transformational retreats.

She is a certified NLP and EFT master coach and Reiki practitioner. She also led the opening of The Retreat Palm Dubai, the first wellness retreat resort in the UAE and GCC, as well as the Rayya Wellness and Poli-clinic Centre. She created and managed the first holistic retreats in a hotel environment where in-house and

Vyara’s mission is to empower busy executives to create or enhance their business models geared toward a wellness lifestyle on both professional and personal levels. Her vision, on the other hand, is to create worldwide wellness and health retreat centres that provide premium services for its employees, guests and visitors.

As a consultant, she advises and consults hospitality and spa executives on the creation of wellness projects and their execution.

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Fitness

KEEPING FIT DURING RAMADAN While light to moderate exercises are generally safe, engaging in unaccustomed high-intensity and a high volume of exercise, especially while fasting, may suppress or even lower your immunity levels and is therefore not recommended.

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Thus, do consult your doctor before embarking on an exercise programme while fasting if you: • Are unsure of your health status • Have never exercised • Have chronic medical conditions, e.g. diabetes, heart disease, hypertension • Are pregnant • Feel unwell. What is the recommended amount of exercise while fasting? The recommended amount of exercise while fasting really depends on your physical activity levels prior to Ramadan. If you have been sedentary and physically inactive, you should: • Start low and go slow • Aim to stay physically active every day • Break sedentary times as much as possible • Incorporate more physical activities in your daily routines, eg walk instead of driving to your local shop. Walking is appropriate in the context of clocking in more steps and practising safe distancing, as required. Avoid peak periods, if possible, and walk a longer distance to avoid the crowded routes • Take the stairs instead of the lift • Perform your daily house chores to keep your living environment clean.

If you have been physically active and exercising regularly, you should: • Continue with your current physical activity levels. It is not recommended to increase exercise frequency, intensity and duration while fasting • Aim to exercise for maintenance, not to push your limits or set new personal records • Always listen to your body and modify accordingly. When is a good time to exercise during Ramadan? It depends on your preference. However, there are some advantages and disadvantages to consider for the different times of day: In the morning after Suhoor • Advantage: You may have more energy after Suhoor. • Disadvantage: You may run the risk of dehydration as there will be no opportunity to refuel until Iftar. In the evening before Iftar • Advantage: You will have ample opportunity to eat for recovery and hydrate at Iftar. • Disadvantage: Minimal pre-exercise nutritional support.

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In the evening after Iftar • Advantage: This timing is ideal for many as it provides the opportunity to fuel and hydrate before and after exercise • Disadvantage: This must be balanced against the importance of rest/sleep. Avoid exercising 1-2 hours before bedtime to allow your adrenaline (stress hormones) to wind down for better sleep quality. Will exercising make me thirsty while fasting? Hydrate adequately to compensate for the loss of body fluids during physical activity or exercise when you are fasting. • Good hydration is also essential for your immune system • Drink at least 8-12 glasses of fluids (approximately two litres) daily between Iftar and Suhoor • Avoid caffeine-containing beverages (coffee); caffeine is a diuretic and may predispose you to dehydration.

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food

REDUCE YOUR FOODPRINT WITH SUSTAINABLE COOKING The way food is produced is likely to be the biggest indicator of the type of impact it could have on the environment. Sustainable cooking starts outside the kitchen. Unlike dining out or buying pre-packaged food—where there are several layers of sourcing, packaging and preparation that are out of your control—cooking at home allows you to make more sustainable choices at every step of the process, from shopping for the most sustainable ingredients to reducing food waste as you cook. The more you know in the kitchen, the easier it is to create recipes and save money when it comes to sustainable cooking. Sustainable cooking is a great way to reduce your impact on people, animals and the environment.

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Small changes can be made at home towards sustainable cooking that will have a wider impact over the long term. These include: 1. Turning down the heat: Does the hob need to be up that high? Or does the oven need preheating? The answer to these is likely to be no. Turn the electricity or gas down a notch. If you’re boiling in a pot or pan, put on a lid; this is both efficient for energy and your purse! 2. Reducing your liquid: Try to avoid overfilling your pots and pans. Only fill them up and let them bubble away; try measuring out how much liquid you will need, or start small and add to it. 3. Waste not, want not: Check the fridge regularly to see what food you have, what’s going off soon, what can be frozen, what veggies are on the turn that can be made into a quick side dish. 4. Choosing sustainable food: We mean buying local, seasonal and environmentally friendly food. Try your local farmer’s markets, choose products with a Fairtrade stamp and select fish that has been sustainably farmed. 5. Taking the bull by the horns: Reduce the amount of meat and dairy you eat! Choose more fresh fruit, grains, vegetables, and pulses instead. By eating less meat and consuming fewer dairy products, you can reduce health risks and greenhouse gases.

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Food Journeys

BOMBAY BRASSERIE:

TAJ DUBAI’S SIGNATURE INDIAN RESTAURANT Bombay Brasserie, the signature Indian restaurant and designer kitchen set to revitalise Dubai’s brunch scene with the launch of its new “Jazz It Up” Saturday brunch, is set in the stylish, sophisticated backdrop of Taj Dubai’s famed flagship restaurant. Guests are in for a culinary treat, with the brunch’s indulgent array of authentic Indian dishes, infused with unique flavours and crafted cocktail pairings. The unique brunch menu was conceived by Executive Chef Vikas Milhoutra and restaurant’s Head Chef Ajay Singh, and features a modern twist on classic dishes such as root vegetable platters, non-vegetarian kebabs, avocado lentil pancake and chole with kulcha, smoked vegetarian and non-vegetarian biryani with signature sauces and small truffle and tomato kulchas, raan bao and all-time favourite garlic naan. Featuring an open interactive kitchen, the restaurant will be seen serving up a scrumptious selection of only the best Indian street food favourites with a bold and boozy twist on Pani Puri and Chaat every Saturday to please the brunch-goers looking for a meal with a kick. Chef’s special desserts will be served directly at your table for a sweet afternote. The experience is complemented by creative concoctions of artisanal cocktails, accompanied by a side of funky beats performed live by a guest DJ and saxophone player to keep you entertained. Bombay Brasserie is a tryst between classic and contemporary that promises a dining experience full of drama, authenticity and innovation. The latest brunch offering will incorporate four main elements for an amazing experience—signature Taj hospitality, sumptuous food, creative drinks, and entertainment. Inspired by the vibrant sights and accents of India, the restaurant décor is sleek and perky with bold embossed wall murals throughout its intimate dining and lounge areas, evoking the dramatism that is further accentuated by the mood-lit interiors. Set in an ambience for an afternoon of entertainment and fun, Bombay Brasserie promises an offering of a lip-smacking array of Indian delicacies and contemporary cocktails from its dedicated two mixologist bars.

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Day: Saturdays, 1 pm to 4 pm Price: Soft beverages package at AED 195 per person Ladies package featuring house beverages and cocktails at AED 275 per person House beverages package at AED 345 per person Bubbly package at AED395 per person For Taj Dubai Call: +971-4-438313, WhatsApp +971501896089 or E-mail: fbreservations.dubai@tajhotels.com

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Boutique No.8, Aswaaq Center, Al Badaa, Al Wasl Road, Dubai. Boutique 13, Building 8, Golden Mile Galleria, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai. www.mokha1450.com

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Travel and Experiences

EXPERIENCE PARADISE ON EARTH AT

MYSK KINGFISHER RETREAT

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Serenity is most likely to be the first word that comes to mind when you visit Mysk Kingfisher Retreat in Kalba; it was definitely what we thought of on our visit. The hotel is located on a private island off the Kalba Corniche. During daylight hours and until 7 pm, getting to the island is a short boat ride. Those arriving after 7 pm will get a scenic view of the Hajar Mountains as they enter the island from the bridge via buggy. Whether it is the sound of the birds by day or the crickets by night, the charming sounds of nature are guaranteed. After check-in at reception and a refreshing welcome drink, head over to your tent with a view of the sea or the mountains. The tents are very spacious and decked out in lightcoloured wooden furniture, including a massive four-poster bed, sitting area with a comfy sofa and table, minibar and coffee-making station, office area, and a flat-screen TV. We stayed in a one-bedroom tent with an amazing view of the Hajar Mountains to the right. It was the ideal spot to catch the sunset. Step over into the bathroom! It is built with a large tub, separate shower area, toilet, and his and hers face basins. If you are a fan of bathrooms like we are, then add this one to your list of bathroom ideas for when you build that dream house. Sounds like the ultimate hotel room so far? Wait, there’s more! Head outside to your very spacious balcony. There you’ll find sun-loungers and deck chairs to chill on once you step out of your own plunge pool with a view of the sea or the mountains. There’s just one thing, the pools are not heated, so be prepared to be a bit cold at certain times of the day. At night, just outside your balcony, enjoy roasting corn, sweet potatoes and marshmallows over a bonfire while sipping on the best-tasting hot chocolate after enjoying a delectable buffet at the restaurant. We spent hours enjoying the sounds of the night and chatted into the wee hours of the morning. Wake up to the most beautiful red ball of flames rising over the ocean before going for a run on the beach, followed by breakfast indoors or on the terrace. The hotel stay comes with complimentary tickets to the Kalba Wildlife Reserve, where you can see an aquarium with urchins, sea horses, jellyfish, and a range of other fish. Enjoy a walk through the enchanting mangroves covered in lush trees. You will also see turtles, gazelles, kingfisher birds, and crab nests. Getting to and from the reserve is an enjoyable cycle away. You don’t need to worry about finding cycles as all tents have them parked outside, or one can be easily picked up outside reception. If you are not up for cycling, get dropped off by buggy, which one of the hotel staff will be more than happy to assist you with. Overall, Mysk Kingfisher is a fantastic place to retreat from the world, be immersed in nature, and connect with your inner being. Our rating: 9/10 Out & About Magazine

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MYSK

COLLECTION

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ESCAPE TO THE PICTURESQUE HAVEN OF

MYSK AL BADAYER 186

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If you are looking to get away from the city for a short break or even a more extended stay, Mysk Al Badayer is most definitely a good choice. Set in the picturesque dunes on the outskirts of Sharjah and away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you might miss the entrance to the hotel if you are not paying close attention. Once you arrive, you are picked up in a buggy from the car park and taken to reception. Mysk Al Badayer’s staff will talk you through what you’re seeing while on the short ride to reception. We enjoyed a refreshing welcome drink and a pleasant chat with the hotel’s assistant manager, Joseph, while being checked in at reception.

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The property Mysk Al Badayer has spacious grounds with paved walkways and orange-hued walls to match the colour of the dunes in the background. The communal outdoor pool sits towards the back of the property and is accessible to those who couldn’t splurge on a tent with a private pool! It has a waterfall feature, which adds a nice touch. Unfortunately, we didn’t get a chance to experience the much-talked-about indoor pool. There are also water features that lay beyond the boardwalk as you make your way to the back of the property. A large amphitheatre is built near the edge of the property, where complimentary falcon shows take place nightly. You can also cosy up and watch a movie under the night skies in the same location after the falcon show is over. If you are visiting the property with your family or your significant other, this is definitely one of the must-dos. There is also an on-site mosque, which is a nice perk for Muslim guests.

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The hotel offers activities such as archery, fat bicycle riding, and bonfire, which guests can book for a fee. Rooms Guests have their choice of several room options. Guests can book either a Deluxe Double, Deluxe Twin, or Deluxe King room within the main hotel buildings. There is also the option to glamp in a private tent on the outskirts of the property, with private temperature-controlled pools and breathtaking dune views. We had a short bout in a Deluxe King room before moving to a one-bedroom tent for the majority of the stay. The tent is bright, airy, and fitted with nice dark-wooden furniture. It is also well equipped with amenities to suit all your needs, including a minibar. You’ll find ample space and furniture for lounging on the deck while taking breaks from numerous dips in the pool.

Food The all-day dining restaurant, Al Madam, is where you will have breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It offers a wide variety of options on each menu, and guests can choose freely from the buffet. The food was okay, but we wouldn’t say it was anything to write home about. Also, the dinner package that comes with our hotel stay didn’t include any juice options.

Overall service Overall, the service we were provided was good. For the most part, the staff was pleasant and attentive. We did have an unpleasant situation during dinner, which Joseph quickly resolved. The hotel manager, Moses, checked in on us and supported us with anything we needed. They were also there to wave us off at checkout after a lovely chat at reception. Our rating: 8/10

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Take a Tour Around

Time Out Market Dubai

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Souk Al Bahar - Downtown Dubai - Dubai www.timeoutmarket.com/dubai/

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THE MUSEUM OF THE FUTURE: A NEW BEACON FOR KNOWLEDGE AND INNOVATION

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Often, we find ourselves wondering what the future could look like, envisioning an array of possibilities and questioning our own positioning in the world of tomorrow. What will our life look like? What will the future hold for our children? Today, the future is at the very doorstep of humanity; the opportunity is here as we believe that the future is something we ourselves can design. Driven by the wise vision of its leadership, as always, Dubai has brought to life a one-of-akind hub for visionaries, talents and great minds from around the globe to shape the future in its eagerly awaited “Museum of the Future”. The hub opened its doors to the rest of the world on February 22, 2022, welcoming guests to embark on a journey to the year 2071. From Dubai and the UAE to the rest of the world, the Museum of the Future is a ‘living museum’ aiming to contribute to a deep intellectual movement through connecting thinkers and experts from around the world and acting as a testbed for future generations to create innovative solutions for the challenges facing society. As described by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, the Museum of the Future is “the most beautiful building on Earth”. It is a spectacular building that speaks Arabic, representing the revival of Arab excellence in science, mathematics and research and an appreciation of the past Arab intellectuals that aims to resume Arab civilisation and renaissance. Rising 77 metres above the ground, the striking structure is an architectural marvel, built by using robotic technology and with an emphasis on sustainability. The building is powered by 4,000 megawatts of solar energy. The pillarless structure is home to seven

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unique and distinct floors. For its visitors, the museum comprises an unparalleled window to experience the future in all its aspects and dimensions. The Museum of the Future employs the latest virtual and augmented reality technologies, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and humanmachine interaction. Answering many questions related to the future of humans, cities, societies, life on planet Earth, and outer space, the museum’s exhibits orchestrate a world beyond human knowledge, providing visitors with innovative experiences that unfold across five different exhibitions that explore the future of space travel and living, climate change and ecology, health, wellness, and spirituality. Coming face-to-face with never-before-seen space technology and getting introduced to humanity’s home in outer space, the visitor’s journey begins in the depths of our solar system. Paying tribute to the inspiring Emirates Mars Mission project that saw the Hope Probe successfully enter Mars’ orbit last year, this exhibit complements a crowning milestone for the UAE and the Arab World. The Museum of the Future experience encourages its visitors to partake in special missions and, unlike a traditional museum that showcases fragments of the past, it provides a portal to the future in a scientific attempt to explore its variables, potential challenges and expected characteristics. The immersive experience will also see its visitors in an entirely new environment as they are re-introduced to planet Earth, the future of healing, sustainability, and bioengineering technology. Reflecting the UAE’s ongoing work in sustainability and environmental stability, this part of the visitors’ journey also highlights the UAE’s position as one of the first countries to announce its commitment to achieving climate neutrality by 2050 and a homage to the country’s efforts in planning to host the 28th United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 28) in Abu Dhabi in 2023.

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In an environment centred around health, well-being and the sense of self, visitors will embark on a peaceful and empowering journey, as light will be shed on reconnecting to human senses and learning to detach from the personal immense use of technology. The Museum of the Future will also showcase novel innovations from the near future through its partnerships with industry-leading companies and organisations to highlight emerging technologies and trends created for the betterment of humanity. Believing that the future does not have an age preference, this museum will provide children with dedicated experience that encourages their youngest minds to explore and learn several future-proofing skills through an open-world experience, in a step that helps them to innovate and allows them to create the future they look forward to and to be a pivotal part of its characteristics. As the new global scientific landmark and a beacon of knowledge, the Museum of the Future is the headquarters of the ‘Great Arab Minds’ initiative, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in search for 1,000 great Arab minds.

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INSIDE THE HONEYMOON

OF MONA KATTAN AND HASSAN ELAMIN AT ST REGIS MALDIVES VOMMULI

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It's official, Mona Kattan is now married to Hassan Elamin. The happy couple tied the knot on a special date, February 22, 2022, after getting engaged in December 2021. Keeping it glam, the two lovebirds technically had two weddings in Dubai before setting off on their honeymoon at the luxe St Regis Maldives Vommuli, a five-star resort that is 45 minutes away by seaplane from Male International Airport. The luxurious resort is nestled between verdant rainforest and white sand beaches on a private island. St Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort overlooks the alluring waves of the Indian Ocean. The resort has a private lagoon, Iridium Spa and an outdoor infinity pool that promises nonpareil relaxation. Boasting refined furnishings and island-inspired design, each of the 33 on-land and 44 overwater villas promises picturesque ocean or garden views from private terraces and pools. Mona Kattan and her husband shared an IG Reel of her honeymoon highlights with fans on Wednesday evening, along with a romantic picture of them holding hands on a walk by the crystal-clear beach. Rates for Overwater Villas at St Regis Maldives Vommuli start at USD 2,450 per night.

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Experience the

Best of Maldives at Anantara Kihavah Villas

Kihavah Huravalhi Island, 20215, Maldives

+960 660 1020

kihavahmaldives@anantara.com

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Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is located In Rangali Island, Maldives. To book a reservation at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, please call +960 668 0629 or visit conradmaldives.com

conrad_maldives

conradmaldivesrangaliisland

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5 SITES EVERY MUSLIM SHOULD VISIT IN SPAIN Having been a Muslim settlement for a big part of recent human history, Spain is home to a number of monuments that date back to the golden age of Al-Andalus (Andalucía).

To help visitors locate some of the significant historical attractions, we have prepared a list of the most sought after Muslim sights in Spain that are sure to bewilder Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

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THE GREAT MOSQUE OF CORDOBA Called the Great Mosque, this impressive monument was created during the reign of the Umayyad Caliphate, specifically to rival the impressive architecture in Constantinople. And, it was one of the biggest mosques around the world, after the Blue Mosque in Istanbul and the Holy Mosque in Mecca. This magnificent mosque is a great example of Muslims’ extraordinary architectural prowess, and their ability to fuse familiar elements with innovative design.

ALHAMBRA PALACE One of the key historical sites of Andalucía, rebuilt as a military fortress by the Muslims in the 800s due to its strategic location overlooking the city, Alhambra was once the residence of the first king of Cordoba during the reign of the Nasrid Dynasty. The once royal palace has many interesting elements in it, including Alcazaba and the palaces, Patio of the Lions, the Justice Gate, the building of the Baths, the Comares Room, and the Hall of the Boat. Be prepared for a long tour when you visit, because you’ll be admiring the beauty around you at every step!

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ROYAL ALCÁZAR OF SEVILLE Historically known as al-Qasr al-Muriq, the Alcázar of Seville is a royal palace now considered one of Spain’s many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This particular site has been chosen throughout the ages of different civilisations, cultures, and dynasties to be the centre of power. This resting place of kings hides behind its fortified walls a collection of fortresses, gardens and palaces. As different rulers settled at the palace, the site gradually expanded throughout the years and is now a standing monument of Spanish history.

MEDINA AZAHARA The once flourishing palace city built by Caliph Abd ar-Rahman III in the 10th century is located eight kilometres west of Cordoba. The palace that was originally surrounded by gardens and open fields is now open to public visits and contains a modern museum below the site. The museum takes visitors through the history of the site, with records of its construction, inhabitants and eventual downfall, all illustrated with beautiful displays.

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ALJAFERÍA PALACE The original site in Zaragoza had a defensive tower called Torre del Trovador, which in the 11th century saw the addition of a residential palace built by Al-Muqtadir for the Hudid rulers of Saraqusta. The palace holds vital significance, since it is the only remaining example of Hispanic Islamic architecture from the Taifa period, where all the splendour and grandeur of the Taifa kingdom can be looked upon. Visitors to the palace will find three main elements of attraction: the Golden Hall, the private mosque, and the patio of Santa Isabel.

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For more information and reservations, visit Jumeirah Zabeel Saray or call +971 4 453 0000.

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For the Culture

DO YOU HAVE “IT”? I have always admired the stories behind teams or individuals who have flourished in times tantamount to a drought when conventional wisdom told them to give up. I have huge admiration for those who used defeat as a catalyst to launch themselves into the corridors of greatest. I have profound respect for the stories of triumph when the subjective nature or inclination of others motivated or catapulted the underdog to bask in the pool of victory. I have observed and experienced the courage, dedication and attitude these individuals and teams have exhibited, but none more than Thomas Edward Patrick Brady Jr, more popularly known as Tom Brady.

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Tom Brady’s story is truly an inspiration because of what all the onlookers thought about him in the embryonic stages of his NFL career. Drafted 199th into the NFL in 2000, nobody would have expected that this ‘nobody’ would retire as the greatest player to have graced this premier sports league in America and by extension, the world.

include interest, perseverance and competence. These untouchable traits are vitally important to being successful in any aspect of life. Whether it be career path, social advancements, or personal development, we need IT to improve our chances of reaching and surpassing what we initially set out to achieve.

It is extremely hard to scuff at seven Superbowl titles, when he has won more titles than any one team or franchise in the NFL. He was the 199th pick in that year’s NFL draft, that’s enough evidence that he was not the most talented, skilled and capable of thriving in a league that is known around the world to overflow with high-quality and high-calibre athletes.

Interest Significantly, the first ‘IT’ to success is interest. Being interested is a powerful phenomenon in any and every aspect of our lives.

So how did this unspectacular individual at his best become the most successful quarterback in a sport where being victorious seems to be the stomping ground for the physically gifted and supremely talented? The story of Tom Brady’s rise to fame amplifies the concept of success. The concept of success has new meaning because he reached heights that no other individual, yet alone franchise, has reached. He did it without ever being the most talented, skilled, or capable; what he had was ‘IT’. But what is IT? IT consists of three intangibles. These intangibles

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People or things may ‘pique our interest’, which in turn keeps us focused and committed to the task at hand. The power of interest, consequently, drives learning. Learning is an art that takes dedication and enthusiasm for you to become successful, not just merely being talented. When you have finally found what interests you, like learning, it will change your life. Being interested brings about that unquenchable desire to win and be the best, not by coincidence or luck, but by design and purpose. Being interested embellishes your intrinsic motivation to levels beyond your wildest imagination because you have found your purpose. It fuels your desire to improve, adapt, and make the necessary changes to win. Consequently, you do not need much external

motivation other than proving your doubters wrong. Ask Tom Brady; he had more than his fair share of naysayers and doubters to explicate and expedite how he channelled his interests to win. Your level of interest will highlight how much you are willing to suffer to become successful. On the contrary, when you start to lose interest in what you are doing, then you should know by then that you are not doing something right, or that which you have chosen is not right for you. Hence, having that desire to learn and improve every day, interest is a monumental “IT” factor that will improve your chances of success in the endeavours you have chosen or that which has chosen you. How interested are you? How interested are you in your passion, career path, or cultural space? Perseverance Secondly, after finding and cultivating your interest, ‘IT’ is vital to persevere. Perseverance is a vitally important intangible to have for success in any dispensation or course that you will chart in our lifetime. This is because success again, is not linear, it is a relative experience which will demand interest, patience, competence, and a will to win despite the odds. Furthermore, to persevere means that you must be willing to lose to win again. You must be prepared to

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endure because, “Only the fittest of the fittest will survive,” and “Only the strong will continue.”

limit your ‘limitedness’ for you to explode in areas where, mentally, physical talent has no bearing.

Being the most talented does not automatically make you a top candidate to endure if you do not have that ‘IT’ factor of perseverance. Notably, having an elevated level of interest will no doubt aid your aptitude to persevere by helping you to stay in the present, keeping your eyes on the prize, opening to change, trying new and uncomfortable things for the purpose of growth, and driven to achieve set, clear and intended goals.

Hence, competence is the management system that controls self-doubt. Through being interested, your perseverance created a force field of competence.

Hence, the key ‘IT’ factor, perseverance, is critically important to achieving, maintaining and going beyond intended successes. Competence Thirdly, you can rob the prosperity that aligns with your future endeavours if you lack the ‘IT’ factor known as competence. Being competent sparks from your interest and your ability to persevere in your field of choice. Being competent breathes confidence into a lifeless set of circumstances. You do not need to be the most competent in your field or endeavour, but you must have the desire to avoid the limiting attitude of settling for what you have now or less. Moreover, being competent in your endeavour will improve your aptitude, drive, and proficiency to compete and win. People who are the most talented and endowed with the most diversified set of skill sets tend to be more preoccupied with what they can do quantitatively but tend to lack the necessary qualities in one important skill set to be dominant. Additionally, being competent means improving your overall output by significantly improving what you can input into your personal entity. Competence then, gives you the awareness, acceptance, and pertinent knowledge of how to

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Furthermore, competence in an individual or team setting allows you to be a better organiser, motivator, and a force field of inspiration to yourself and others around you. Being competent brings to fruition a prominent level of magnetism, attraction and calm to situations that might seem volatile and incoherent. Being competent makes you a leader of men because you attract others who are like you. Being competent makes you a great verbal and nonverbal communicator since there will be an aura that surrounds you. Being the most talented is not ‘IT’ because you cannot teach those innate abilities or physical traits. However, through competence, you are more likely to create an environment for growth and improvement in the followers, transforming them into leaders. Therefore, being the most talented is not an intangible that dictates how competent you can be. Competence creates stability and an environment that makes everybody else better. Hence, being competent comes from the idea that things work out for people even when they are not the most talented, skilled, or capable. Like Tom Brady, they just have an incredible amount of the ‘IT’ factor, which is the competence that makes them so successful. Finally, the question still remains: Do you have IT? An effortless way to figure this out is by observing the things that have changed around you and comparing them to what has changed in you. The “IT” factors that I believe are pertinent to being successful in our lifetime are by no means independent of each other. These “IT” factors

work in tandem to give us clarity, purpose, and a positive predisposition to strive for the greatest of greatness that lives in us. It is important to note that everybody has their own diamond in the rough to unearth, hence we all must concretise or maximise our efforts in exposing our diamonds by exploring our interests and persevere to be competent in our interest. Tom Brady’s story is a truly inspirational one,

not because of what he has changed, but how he achieved it. He was able to harness his interest from an early age. He operated without the physical specimen deemed necessary to be successful at the quarterback position. However, he persevered despite the multitude of doubters and became the most competent and accomplished quarterback of all time. Tom Brady’s story shows us that we do not have to be the best to become the greatest. We just must have ‘IT’. Do you have “IT”?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JEROME DOUGLAS Jerome Douglas is a dad, trained teacher, poet and writer from the beautiful island of Jamaica. His personal philosophy is “If it is for me to be, then it is up to me.” He attended the Catholic College of Mandeville in Jamaica. Additionally, he is a community builder and humanitarian who volunteers his time to help with the academic and social well-being of people in his Central Jamaica community and surrounding areas. Out & About Magazine

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MEN

MENTAL HEALTH AND

The recent happenings at the 2022 Oscars between Will Smith and Chris Rock is yet another reason we need to continue the conversation about men and mental health, especially in ethnic minority communities. While a fit, healthy body allows you to perform daily physical activities with ease, a well-managed mental state is what motivates you to plan and accomplish things, and organise your thoughts and emotions to handle the everyday grind and stress. Mental health aggregately refers to a person’s overall psychological, emotional and social well-being, affecting three important facets of behaviour. These aspects include:

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1. Decision-making The mental state of a person usually reflects on the manner of planning and decision-making. A healthy mind is more likely to be decisive, open to rational possibilities, and have reasonable inhibitions in making decisions in any circumstances. 2. Handling stress A person with a good state of mind knows his or her everyday stressors and can manage or control them properly. He or she possesses a degree of calmness and resilience to face the vicissitudes of life. 3. Social involvement. No man is an island, as the cliché goes. A person with excellent mental health quickly adapts and relates to the people around him or her. They are more active and productive members of society because they can easily make friends and value unity. Why are men not talking about mental health? Men express their mental health issues differently than women. Women are generally more likely to openly discuss sensitive issues involving depression, anxiety and other mental health issues, while most men choose not to. Men tend to think of “fixing their issues” on their own rather than asking for help or advice. Mental health illnesses affect both sexes, but men are less likely to receive treatment because of these reasons: • They fear that expressing their thoughts and feelings is burdensome or taxing to others. • They believe that having mental issues is a sign of weakness or perceived to be less masculine. • They express a lack of close confidants in whom they can entrust their thoughts and feelings. • They might feel embarrassment or shame in openly discussing their deep, personal issues. • They tend to believe that some people might humiliate them if they openly express their thoughts and feelings. • They believe that they can fully resolve their internal conflicts without outside help. • They fear that they will be subjected to gossip because of the negative stigma attached to having a mental health disorder.

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Due to a more connected world brought about by social media, most men are discouraged from seeking help to avoid being judged. As many of them tend to be silent about their mental health issues, they are also more likely to make uninformed and emotionally driven decisions. The first step, as we may all agree on, is recognising the problem.

lives, whether the loss of a loved one, a serious financial or career setback, or some form of personal, existential crisis.

Why should you ask for help?

What are the bad habits affecting men’s mental health?

Here are some benefits to achieving optimal mental health. 1. Increased productivity Mentally healthy individuals are more inspired and motivated to achieve their goals by working efficiently and in an organised manner. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the economic effects of depression and anxiety contribute a loss of one trillion US dollars per year on a worldwide scale. 2. Resilience and positive disposition Happiness rates of individuals may increase by up to 20 per cent by alleviating the symptoms of depression and anxiety, which, in turn, contributes to an increased level of resilience and overall attitude to combat daily stress. 3. Increase in healthy levels of selfconfidence An individual with a sense of mental stability tends to feel good about himself and his or her perceived purpose in life. The right amount of confidence drives people to pursue more fulfilling goals and roles fit for themselves, allowing one to stay more connected with others and the society, in general. 4. Effective crisis management Everyone experiences distressing circumstances at some point in their

Mentally healthy individuals can accept the realities of life with reasonable hopes and expectations, enabling them to move forward and maintain functional, productive lives.

Certain bad habits could be affecting your mental health. Some of these common habits are: 1. Chronic sleep deprivation Insufficient sleep may cause problems in attention or concentration, memory and mood regulation. Sleep deprivation suppresses the ability of the immune system to fight off diseases and infections. It has also been widely studied that chronic sleep deprivation poses a higher risk of depression, anxiety and mood problems. 2. Lack of exercise Sadly, the lifestyle of many people nowadays includes a lack of physical exercise or activity. Prolonged physical inactivity significantly reduces muscle tone and bone density, as well as adversely affects the efficiency of blood circulation. Studies reveal that individuals with little to no exercise are exposed to a higher risk of depression and other mental health problems. Regular exercise relieves stress and anxiety as it produces endorphins, or the so-called ‘happy hormones’, in the process. Make sure to include regular exercise in your daily or weekly routine to improve your overall health and wellbeing.

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3. Poor posture A person who slouches each time he walks or sits is more likely to suffer from poor blood circulation and symptoms of exhaustion and fatigue. Proper posture improves confidence and overall mood. 4. Excessive use of smartphones and social media More people, especially the younger ones, are becoming so attached to their gadgets and are easily hooked on social media. While staying updated on news and current events is not a bad thing in itself, the key is moderation in the dependence on smartphones. Recent studies show that excessive exposure to social media triggers low-esteem and anxiety in some individuals. It is recommended to make time for personal connections and real, face-toface conversations. 5. Messy surroundings An untidy place with too much clutter may trigger more levels of stress. Being

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disorganised is associated with lower productivity and high levels of anxiety, reflecting a person’s lack of mindfulness to his or her immediate surroundings. Taking the time to organise and clean your surroundings, especially where you tend to spend your time the most, will lift your mood and alleviate your stress. 6. Improper diet The food you eat affects your weight or waistline and your mental health. A poor, imbalanced diet that includes excessive saturated fat and processed food intake may contribute to mental health problems. It can also lead to a host of other significant health problems like cardiovascular diseases and obesity. 7. Substance abuse Some individuals resort to the intake of alcohol and drugs to cope with their emotional issues. This tends to aggravate the situation. Alcoholic beverages and other harmful psychoactive substances affect the normal levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. Immediate medical intervention in the treatment of alcohol and drug addiction must be sought to combat the debilitating symptoms of these mental disorders.

10 Tips for Men’s Mental Health 1. Know your value and purpose in life. 2. Eat nutritious foods and hydrate often. 3. Get enough sleep to replenish your energy. 4. Do regular exercise. 5. Invest your time in nurturing healthy interpersonal relationships. 6. Join spiritual, religious or meditative circles to strengthen your faith. 7. Seek emotional support, advice or help from your loved ones or a trusted health professional. 8. Combat stress through meditation, travel, social activities, or meaningful hobbies. 9. Avoid addictive and harmful vices or substances. 10. Take your time to unwind or do breathing exercises, especially on stressful days. Your mental health matters. Follow the tips we recommend and skip the bad habits to start noticing improvements in your mental health and overall wellness. Disclaimer: This article is intended for reference or suggestion only. Do not use this article to replace medical advice. Consult your doctor for proper medical advice.

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Shelf Life

The Seat of the Soul If you are an Oprah fan, you’d have come across her talking about her love for this book, The Seat of the Soul. It was written by Gary Zukav. Living a conscious life is the main thrust of this book — be “awake” as you live your life to live a more meaningful life. As you become conscious of your actions, you begin to become whole. One aspect of becoming whole is letting go of the mental baggage that keeps you chained to old, bad habits, fears and doubts that keep you from growing and realising your own great potential.

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DISCLAIMER: The information presented in Out and About Magazine does not constitute a replacement for financial, health, legal, or other professional advice and is instead general in its nature. We do not take into account your specific needs or circumstance and you should not act upon any advice without fully understanding your current legal, health, financial or other situations. Although we always do our best to bring high-quality information to our readers, we reserve the right to augment or delete information in any way and at any time. Out and About Magazine accepts no liability for any loss or damage that may arise from the use of any element of our website or magazine.

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