Woman This Month - June 2013

Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES

June 2013 | Issue 124 | BD1 / SR10

Celebrity Lives Guided By Stars

Fashion Theme: Pick Your Tribe

Beauty Tips Here Comes The Sun

Osteoporosis Healthy Bones

Expert Support Do Your Research! www.womanthismonth.com

www.omegawatches.com

contents | june 2013

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Shopping 08 Editor’s Choice: One with nature 10 Pick of the Month: Proenza Schouler 12 Retail Therapy: What’s new on the retail scene!

Fashion

54

16 Fashion Forward: Wardrobe essentials 18 Celebrity Watch: What the stars are wearing 20 Get the Look: An ethnic turn 22 Theme: Hippies are back!

Beauty 32 News: The latest products in stores 34 Fragrances: What’s your story?

36 Tips: Sun-kissed skin

60 64

Celebrity Feature 14 People: Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa 39 Feature: Live the high life 42 10 Tips: Travel like an A-lister 44 People: Sheezell Ali 46 Column: The purple diet 48 Brand Ambassador: The new face of Chanel 50 20 Tips: Have a bash!

52 Home: Make yourself at home 54 Travel: Top celebrity destinations 56 Online: Gwyneth Paltrow’s voice

Wellbeing 64 Feature: Fighting osteoporosis

68 Bahrain Edition

BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES

woman this month

June 2013, issue 124

June 2013 | Issue 124 | BD1 / SR10

JUNE 2013 ı CELEBRITY LIVES — GUIDED BY STARS ı www.womanthismonth.com

Rooney Mara dressed head-to-toe in Givenchy Couture for the 2013 Met Gala.

Celebrity Lives Guided By Stars

Fashion Theme: Pick Your Tribe

Beauty Tips Here Comes The Sun HOME SUBSCRIBERS COPY

Osteoporosis Healthy Bones

Expert Support Do Your Research!

ISSUE 124

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| June 2013

www.womanthismonth.com

Parenting 68 Feature: The need for help 71 Column: Nursing to health

Regulars 06 Letters: Tell us what you think of this issue 60 Campaign: Preserving the environment 61 Social Butterfly: Who has been seen where?

76 Recipes: Party bites 78 Horoscope: What this month holds for you 80 WoMentality: Be positive

08 www.womanthismonth.com

NESPRESSO BOUTIQUE : Bahrain City Center, Level 1 NESPRESSO CLUB : 80001999

responsible editor Jubran AbdulRahman

chairman & publisher George F Middleton

publishing director

David M Robertson

editorial consultant Dr Paul Balles

assistant editor Elma Bartholomew

fashion and beauty editor Fernanda Langhammer

contributors

Dr Clare beckett-mcinroy george r vaughan James Claire

Welcome The High Life

features editor

Maryam A Toorani

print production manager Sabu Sebastian

layout & graphics RODOLFO A REYES JR Dalal Al-Sabbagh

media coordinator SARAH ANSARI

media manager sales manager

Mayukh Majumdar

circulation

FAWAZ AL BALOOSHI

photography editor anil Ravi Shankar

photographers

Shankar Kunhambu Subeesh Kumar NS

printing press

Union Press, Bahrain Contents copyrighted 2004© Reproduction in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited.

ISBN No: 1 899348 11 5. Licensed by the Ministry of Information, Directorate of Publication and Press. Code: SWTM 410 woman this month is for women in Bahrain wishing to celebrate a unique cosmopolitan lifestyle and community spirit in an objective and proactive manner.

For subscriptions visit www.womanthismonth.com Advertising rates are available upon request.

Please e-mail sales@womanthismonth.com.

The publication of any advertisement in woman this month is not necessarily an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised.

Although every effort is made to ensure factual information, woman this month cannot be held responsible for errors in contributors’ material, nor do the opinions expressed by individual writers necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. editorial Submission of articles is welcome. Send queries, letters and articles to the editor at the address below. The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. bahrain office address Red House Marketing p.o. box: 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain telephone: (17) 813-777 fax: (17) 813-700 email: editor@womanthismonth.com website: www.womanthismonth.com published monthly by Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. P. O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place, St. Helier, Jersey JE4 8JJ, Channel Islands, U.K. in association with Al-Hilal Publishing, P. O. Box 224, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain

Woman This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide

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G U E S T E D I T O R ' s l etter

T

farheen ahmed Randa Ghazi Howais

he main part of enjoying a magazine is spotting your must-haves and adding new items to your wish list. We all do it. In the world we live in, nothing is ever enough.

That’s probably because we never treat ourselves to the life we deserve. For once, we ask you to set aside all inhibitions and cut yourself some slack.

It seems that we all dream of living the celebrity lifestyle. In the June 2013 issue of Woman this Month, we invite you to welcome ‘the high life’ if only temporarily. We can’t guarantee that your life will be as opulent as that of a superstar, but there’s no reason why a certain level of luxury can’t be affordable.

Energy-efficiency is a huge priority for the elite today. While they turn their mansions into eco-friendly habitats, Simi Kamboj takes a look at how we commoners can preserve the environment in our own little ways.

Through the celebrity feature, we give you tips on how to live your life in the best way possible. From their envious wardrobes to their lavish homes, we take you on a journey through the life of an A-lister. We even tell you how to travel like one, with a review of the top three destinations based on your inner diva.

We had the pleasure of speaking with Sheikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa, who is currently focused on bringing up the women of the Kingdom by providing them with mentoring and support through the Bahraini Businesswomen and Professionals Club.

In the parenting section, Dr Clare Beckett-McInroy helps dads and mums seek help as they deal with health, social and emotional concerns. We also look at the common ailment of osteoporosis and how it can be prevented.

Catch up on all this and our regular fashion and beauty tips in yet another exciting issue.

Enjoy!

Elma Bartholomew Assistant Editor

For of the moment news, tips, advice and fun links, follow Woman This Month on Twitter:

@WomanThisMonthB and Instagram: @woman_this_month June 2013 |

5

Write Here Write Now

Letters

Campaign

Changing Perceptions we’re dealing with autism, but to go when it comes to Bahrain has a long way r understanding of the disorder. road to developing a bette

By Simi Kamboj

Shoppi

ng

Editor's

The little things

on the

Choice

If you wa shades nt to add some hue for are not in your colour to yo ur yo has a ca u. The feminincomfort zone wardrobe an , your de lming and ref e shade, pre green mint is d bold reshin just sent cor items as well. g quality, ma in many run the wa This se kin ason, go g it a good ys, pick for green!

I’m new to Bahrain and I do find it a little difficult to adapt to the laidback lifestyle. Coming from New York, it is hard to deal with a ‘mellow’ city. My friend suggested I go sight-seeing and “discover Bahrain”, like many people tend to say here. Anyway I happened to go through your magazines at a coffee shop near my home and I have to admit it took me by surprise. I wanted to congratulate your team on your great work and I even follow you on Instagram now! I just needed an eye-opener I suppose. As for the May issue, I’d like to say that you got me to do two things: shop for mint jeans and try out the lettuce wraps at Blaze!

I love them both.

Mango

com

www.womanthismonth.

Changing perceptions

I read the story on autism and Mr John Holmes last month. It’s superb! I loved reading it; it gave me so much confidence that autism was finally being taken seriously and that your magazine is spreading the word to bring about awareness in the society.

Mr Holmes must be doing a great job at school, but it would be wonderful if we get to read more of his expert opinions and expertise in this regard. Maybe we could ask him questions through your magazine, and get answers from him here.

I know quite a few people whose children are autistic but cannot afford an expensive school like the Children’s Academy. They could benefit from his opinion. Fadia H Qureshi, by email.

of Bath

Shop

House

The Body

Coach

Geox Respi

ra

Madden

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| May

Steve

are, simply because children for what they . about their condition Bahrain TV for a currently in talks with they don’t have a choice of April to shouldn’t try to that will be aired in aving dedicated the month documentary on autism “Parents and care givers n. decided to speak essential right to be awareness and educatio autism awareness, we Bahrain to promote its change them for it’s their es advocate the learning y, disabiliti and as they don’t harm Academ ’s long needs As with special At the Children who they are. at attaining at the Children’s around, they should anyone or to children is aimed es John Holmes, who teaches imparted the themselv John has a master's at home as well as on do what they want the Academy in Bahrain. independence, both have the freedom to and has worked in kids are self-sufficient. advises. degree in autism in children streets, so that these way they want to,” he in al skills, such as autism going up (one education for 15 years.

This includes function With the incidence of in mid-2011, he worldwide) in recent as well as basic health Before moving to Bahrain dressing themselves, 80 children have autism with special needs children should map its autism ent training. governm the safety spent years working and years, of framework in in Bedfordshire. The first n with autism are capable phic as well as lay the at the Grange School “Childre demogra John because learn about autism, . Schools in Bahrain but many fall behind thing that we need to managing this condition for academic feats, between six and 16, in a way that suits developmental disorder believes, is that it’s a they’re not being taught presently cater to children definite cause, and ds. depend more on their which there is no known them. These children but there is a void afterwar , so the linguistic review system to hence, no definite cure. sight and touch for learning “The UK has an annual no children as realise that there are be simplified in the teaching process of special needs should the “The sooner parents part chart the education, where come to terms with quick fixes here and process,” notes John. well as colleges of special is ful m meaning classroo and more me in his adults can attain work condition, the happier The learning program trained young autistic a their children,” picture schedules and for Bahrain to devise lives they can lead with highly structured; using experience. It’s time in this a child to feel safe needs enable to future its . clues visual predict explains he other plan to with the condition stems work comfortably. John’s The stigma associated direction,” says John. g in his space and but autism is a fascinatin acceptance of these May 2013 | 51 mainly from ignorance, philosophy involves an is John to unravel. and mysterious subject

H

Pucci

R

Emilio

TE T E L STAR

John Holmes

Gap

2013

www.wom anthis

month.com

Gabrielle, by email.

Home

T

here is a certain sense of power that is reflected by the contrasting hues — black and white. Playing with ‘light and dark’ is perhaps the easiest concept one can adopt in respect to decorating a home. It’s simple; it’s clean.

An advantage of this everlasting interior style is that there are several ways of incorporating it into our humble abode. The first step is to invest in soft goods like pillows, bedding, tablecloths, throws and rugs. We have our eyes set on the tyre track rug by Smartville for BoConcept.

Working with an existing scheme makes things tougher. So grab a bucket of black paint and make a day of refurbishing your dining room. You needn’t overdo the look by coordinating every single item to the colour scheme. Your everyday white crockery will certainly pop in such a setting. The tropical printed set from Zara Home is perfect for the season.

Portraying a message on your clothes is in!

The trend has extended to home décor as well.

Who hasn’t noticed the ‘Ctrl-Alt-Del’ sofa cushions on Two and a Half Men? This trend is great to work with typewriter fonts. A fun take on this is the crockery from @home that helps you categorise your plates and jars based on its purpose.

Nothing says ‘ageless’ like black frames with monochrome images. THE One has just the thing for those who can’t get enough of this style.

If you’re looking for a new way to stack up your collection of books, it would help to take a look at Roche Bobois’ unique wall units.

Yinand Yang

We explore the beauty of opposites this month. Inspired by the ‘black and white’ trend on the runways, WTM adopts the style to home décor. Find your inner minimalist. | May 2013

www.womanthismonth.com

Roche Bobois

Zara Home

The classic duo We know most of our house-proud readers were waiting for spring and summer to add a splash of colour to their homes.

However, not every room needs to look like a rainbow used to live there.

The black and white combination is a timeless style that leaves a lot of room for your creativity to be displayed.

Those who can accommodate a major revamp ought to have a look at Versace Home’s new wallpaper collection.

The Herald print presents luxurious floral scrolls, adding a hint of romance to the ambience of a stylish home.

By Elma Bartholomew

38

@home THE One

BoConcept

www.womanthismonth.com

Versace May 2013 |

39

A new place WRITE IN AND WIN

This month’s star letter will win a one-of-a-kind gift from Glasshouse Terraniums. To win a 'garden in a bottle' worth BD50, send us your views and opinions on our May 2013 edition either by email to editor@womanthismonth.com, by fax to 17 813-700 or by post to PO Box 20461.

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| June 2013

The ‘Yin and Yang’ article inspired me a lot, especially because I’m tired of my room looking exactly as it did three years ago.

Unfortunately, I’m not in a situation to afford a whole makeover. But I liked the whole idea of playing with black and white pieces.

So I went hunting around the house for some accessories that I could swap with those in my room and, believe it or not, I even got to paint my furniture!

I love DIY projects. I made my own photo frames and printed out my favourite pics with the grey tint. I recycled my old black and white clothes in stripes and prints to new coasters, table runners and pillow cases. I also embroidered my initial onto my new cushion covers. It’s shocking how with a little bit of rearrangement my room is as good as new! Yasmine, by email. www.womanthismonth.com

Shopping

Editor's Choice

Patterns are always present in fashion. However, this summer they have a distinctive look with palm trees, flowers and leaves printed on a white background. Inspiration for this season’s design has been drawn from the natural world, and motifs get painted in bright and contrasting colours.

Oysho

Mother of Pearl at net-a-porter.com

Juicy Couture

Tommy Hilfiger

Zara Home

Tory Burch

Marc by Marc Jacobs

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| June 2013

Koton

www.womanthismonth.com

Neon Green Shirt BD19, Spotted Vest BD11

www.marksandspencerbahrain.com Bahrain: Seef Mall, Manama, Tel: 1758 8188

Shopping

Pick of the Month

More and more brands are developing partnerships for exclusive collections; fashion lovers, enthusiastic of limited edition capsules, are falling for them.

Why it was selected Proenza Schouler is a New York-based women’s wear and accessories brand founded in 2002. The designers, Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, met at Parson’s School of Design and created their first collection, named after their mothers’ maiden names, on their senior thesis.

Since the duo got into the fashion scene, Proenza Schouler has helped reinvigorate the American fashion industry along with other emerging names. The brand has been collecting a number of awards; the last one conquered in 2011, when they won their second CFDA Womenswear Designer of the Year.

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What we like The brand created an exclusive collection for the online store Net-a-Porter.com that can be purchased in 170 countries. The limited edition brings nine ready-to-wear items including a mini-dress, a skirt, shorts, a jacket and a sweater. The collection was inspired by pieces from pre-spring creations and revisited the brand’s classics. The unique items were reinterpreted in luxurious fabrics like leather and custom tweeds.

Net-a-Porter is one of the first online destinations to sell Proenza Schouler and the designers wanted to do something special to celebrate their continued support over the years.

What else to look for If you are looking for a cool brand that mixes craftsmanship and tailoring in refined cuts, you can find desirable pieces in their collections.

The attention to details in custom-developed fabrics gives the contemporary refreshment to their fashionable items. The designs are dedicated to practical and expressive women looking for inspirational pieces to wear on different occasions.

Where to find it Shop for Proenza Schouler at Net-a- Porter.com. www.womanthismonth.com

Shopping

Retail Therapy

When temperatures start to rise we can always retreat to the air-conditioned comfort of a shopping mall, or browse on-line at home, to feel refreshed and go on a splurge!

Home Collection

Artists and designers Nikolai and Simon, from Haas Brothers, have created a 12-piece collection for Versace Home. Inspired by honeycombs with black and gold colours, the duo reinterpreted the classic motifs of the house. The result is a range of traditional and bold pieces.

Shop and Share

Fashion photographer Mario Testino has launched a collection inspired by his photographic portraits of Peruvians wearing traditional attires called Alta Moda. The works include kaftans, scarves, tote bags and clutches, and are available at Net-a-Porter.com.

Light, Camera and Action

Konstantin Chaykin Manufacture is the only Russian company creating luxury mechanical watches. Their new piece called Cinema Watch was designed to resemble an antique photo or cinema camera. It is a timepiece for those who appreciate the fine art of shooting.

Summer Style

The German model, Tony Garrn is the new face in Mango’s Romantic Essence summer look book. The photoshoot images bring a relaxed style with a mix of casual denim, sheer tops and slouchy pants; accessories include a mix of bangles, clutches, high heels and sandals.

Marks & Spencer

Now you can also find the fashionable pieces from Marks & Spencer at Bahrain City Centre. The new in-store format aims to make shopping more inviting, inspiring and convenient for its customers. Check it out!

Beauty Rewards Design of Prosperity Damas has launched its new Akshaya Tritiya 2013 collection. If you are looking for good luck, the 22 new sets have been specially crafted to offer good fortune.

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| June 2013

Sephora Middle East have announced their loyalty programme — the Sephora Card. Cardholders can use it while shopping at any Sephora store in the participating countries and earn one point for each dinar spent. The card is free and you can get yours in your nearest store.

www.womanthismonth.com

Interview

Shaping Business Leaders

By Simi Kamboj

Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa

No economy in the world can afford to overlook women as a productive human resource. A new initiative in Bahrain seeks to support greater competitiveness and growth in the economy by enhancing women’s participation in the workforce and their access to markets.

T

here is no denying Bahrain’s credentials in the Middle East region when it comes to initiatives in the realm of women’s empowerment. Even though much is being accomplished by government agencies, women in the Kingdom, especially those from less privileged backgrounds, are still in need of economic and social support to become fully contributing members of the economy.

It is early days still for the newly launched Business and Professional Women’s Club (BPW) in Bahrain, but the ladies behind the initiative are quite ambitious about its scope — to empower Bahraini women and the youth to realise their true potential.

The Bahrain chapter of the Club traces its antecedents to the International Federation of Business and Professional Women (BPW), which was founded in Geneva in 1930. This

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| June 2013

organization was established to work for professional women everywhere, especially in the roles of mentoring and lobbying.

The BPW is now an influential network of business and professional women from over 100 countries in five continents with consultative status at the United Nations.

It is perhaps befitting that the club’s Bahrain chapter is headed by Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa, president of the Children and Mother’s Welfare Society.

“This initiative is not to repeat what has already been done for women in Bahrain, but will complement the existing endeavours in developing the professional leadership and business potential of women at all levels. This will be done through advocacy, mentoring and skill building,” she notes.

“In a free economy like Bahrain, the younger

generation cannot expect to wait for government jobs to materialise. Rather, they could develop their skill and talent as entrepreneurs, launch their own ventures and contribute to the economic growth of the Kingdom.”

As a regional business hub, Bahrain offers sufficient infrastructure to shape aspiring women into entrepreneurs and professionals. It also offers its female citizens enough space and freedom to pursue their dreams.

“Women in Bahrain are empowered by law to travel freely, seek licenses for business as well as bank loans. They are confident and capable; we’ve seen that in many success stories. But in order to embark on the journey to entrepreneurship, young women need support and guidance from role models who have traversed the same path, and that’s where we come in,” she observes. www.womanthismonth.com

Early success Support for the young club has already come pouring in since the launch last December. The Ministry of Culture, under Shaikha Mai bint Mohammad Al Khalifa, has allotted the club premises for its headquarters in Jasra, which has been named the Al Jasra Training Centre.

“Thanks to the Minister for Culture, we now have a plot of land which will be utilised for various vocational training projects.

Additionally, the Ministry of Municipalities and Agriculture has signed up for two projects with us. Experts from the ministry will conduct courses and hold live demonstrations in gardening, landscaping, and raising palm trees at this plot,” says Shaikha Hind. The kitchen premises will be used to train women in catering food for events and parties.

Already, the handiwork of female artists and recyclers including samples of pottery, ceramics, calligraphy and recycled items have been put on display at the Al Jasra Training Centre.

The club’s 12 founding members are mostly professionals and businesswomen from diverse backgrounds such as banking, retail, event management, interior decoration and art.

New members will be inducted twice a year, in June and December, but entry criteria is deliberately set high so that a candidate’s background, commitment and knowledge will be taken into account before her name is proposed.

“Only ladies who are hardworking, talented and focussed and who can contribute meaningfully towards the projects undertaken will be considered for membership,” she says.

Diverse in scope The objectives of the BPW club in Bahrain are multiple, Shaikha Hind explains.

In addition to providing women and youth with economic training, the club will work together with government organisations to enable women with limited income and productive families to enter the market. But above all, the founding members have set their sights on training young Bahrainis to hone their talent across a wide range of sectors.

To start with, training will be provided at weekly workshops by visiting experts on photography, recycling, catering, landscaping and Arabic calligraphy to enable gifted youngsters to turn their passion into a profitable business venture. For instance, she points out, there are talented amateur photographers in Bahrain who work out of studios set up in a garage, in absence of resources.

“The workshops we hold will be community events, where entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to learn from the best local, regional and global mentors in a relaxed and informal but highly engaging setting. We hope this unique format will forge deep and long lasting connections between entrepreneurs and their mentors,” observes Shaikha Hind.

Earlier this month, the club premises at Al Jasra Training Centre played host to a one-day ‘Mix n’ Mentor’ event where budding entrepreneurs and experts from Bahrain, as well as from other Middle Eastern countries, gathered to discuss the challenges facing their start-ups. Entrepreneurs and their mentors,

who ranged from industry experts and investors to serial entrepreneurs, were matched in breakout groups of ten based on skills and challenges over three sessions.

Mentors were then rotated to ensure maximum diversity. Business angels Tenmou, as well as Bahrain Development Bank (BDB) along with Wamda were roped in for the event.

For their part, the 12 founding members themselves will mentor young women and guide them in promoting their business.

“Of course, the members will use their contacts and network on behalf of their protégés to help promote their businesses,” says Shaikha Hind.

Talented young women with promising business ideas will have access to more resources as the club has plans to allot grants to enable the selected candidates to pursue their dreams.

However, this should not be confused with a loan, where repayment is mandatory, she stresses.

Members will be tasked with organising monthly fund raising events and luncheons in order to generate revenue for club coffers.

Given that the Bahrain chapter is the BPW International’s first footprint in the Gulf region, Shaikha Hind would welcome additional branches across various districts in Bahrain through local engagement and even additional chapters elsewhere in the GCC. The Bahrain chapter will apply for international recognition soon.

Meanwhile, the members have been bearing the message of women’s empowerment elsewhere in the region, most recently at a conference in Egypt.

After all, this is all about women’s leadership and there’s no better time to lead than the present.

Founding members of the Club in Bahrain www.womanthismonth.com

June 2013 |

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Fashion

Fashion Forward

The WTM team has handpicked some wardrobe essentials to keep up with spring/summer 2013 trends. Add any one of these pieces to take your outfit to new heights.

Maxi Skirt

The dress is a symbol of femininity. Summer days are the best period to take them out for a walk. The long skirt stretches your silhouette and is best paired with flat sandals.

Don’t forget to highlight your waist like in this printed option from Marks & Spencer.

Collar Necklace

If you are a fashion observer, you must have noticed that lately collars are getting lots of attention with decorative motifs, in different colours from the rest of the shirt. The trend has now moved into the world of accessories. Add a cool collar necklace to any top or dress. You will find them in different materials and shapes; Hobbs made it in delicate lace.

Sandal Boots

Who wears boots in summer? Celebrities and fashion trendsetters have given this winter icon a fresh touch. In most cases, the toes are open or the feet are wrapped in straps. Light colours and materials give to it a softer appearance. Victoria Beckham embraced the concept and took it to her runway show in high and flat heels.

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| June 2013

Vibrant Scarf

Scarves may have a winter connotation, but they also feature in women’s summer looks. It is a versatile accessory that can be teamed with a fluid dress or shorts. Mango has an array of pieces in bold colours that will match with the season’s energy; most of them are found in patterns, but your focus should be on the colour palette. www.womanthismonth.com

Shiny Accents

A metallic coat spreads across clothes and accessories; this was spotted at the Emporio Armani runway show and is now available in stores. Breaking from the evening stereotype, it can be worn during day.

Pick a beige or white piece to add shine to your outfit, or invest in a sparkly pair of shoes.

Cross Body Bag

Keep your hands free to sip your cup of coffee with a cross-body bag. It may be too small to be your everyday carrier, but it certainly accommodates essential items. You will probably enjoy the freedom so much that you might get a bunch of them in different colours.

This coral piece is from Chloe at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Statement Trousers Patterned or coloured trousers should be part of your summer dress code. Ralph Lauren has a wide selection of printed jeans with fashionable stamps; pair them with white or coloured tops to add a flash of drama. A helpful tip is to avoid large patterns towards the bottom if you are skipping your gym sessions.

www.womanthismonth.com

June 2013 |

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Fashion

What the

Stars

are Wearing

By Fernanda Langhammer

Life goes on, even for stars! Check out their style choices while attending events or just living from one day to the next.

Rihanna Rihanna chose to flaunt a Versace necklace on a day out in London. The golden string with a gold medusa pendant sits comfortably with the white cropped shirt. Embrace the look only if your age and physique allow it!

Eva Mendes Eva was spotted wearing Carolina Herrera’s Matryoshka bag in Los Angeles. The black carrier was paired with brown shoes, proving you don’t have to match accessories anymore! She’s obviously a big fan of wearing a dress with boots; but, be careful with this combination if you have short legs!

Jennifer Lopez A Salvatore Ferragamo handbag was Jennifer’s choice for an outing in Los Angeles. The blue dress has a daywear look when paired with light coloured accessories.

It is all right to show off curves, but follow the singer’s choice of a high neckline and knee-length skirt.

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| June 2013

Rachel Zoe The American fashion stylist attended Marc Jacob’s autumn/winter 2013 runway show wearing one of his dresses from the spring/ summer collection. The graphic gown is all you need when opting for this look. Pair it with minimal accessories, but avoid dresses where the hem touches the floor. www.womanthismonth.com

Jessica Biel Jessica chose striped black and white Tod’s shoes from the spring/summer 2013 collection while walking around Los Angeles, using one of the most popular tricks in fashion — she made the accessories the focal point of the look. The red shades work really well with the comfy flats, while the casual clothes completed the look.

Victoria Beckham The ex-Spice Girl, now recognised designer, chose Chloe high-waist jeans for a casual outing in Paris. The old-fashioned appeal of the jeans is only ‘cool’ when worn by a fashion icon.

Besides, her slim figure pulls it off. For us mere mortals, this is a trend to avoid.

Hilary Duff The young actress was spotted wearing Coach’s satchel in an event for the brand. The patterned top asks for neutral trousers and the light accessories give it a fresh look. The cross-body bag style is one of the top trends of the season, and is a clever purchase.

Hilary Swank The Oscar winner attended Michael Kors’ runway show wearing one of the designer’s creations from his spring/ summer 2013 collection. The striped dress with an impeccable cut and amazing colour patterns brings out Hilary’s beauty. This style of dress is a good choice for many body shapes. www.womanthismonth.com

Beyoncé The singer went to the 55th Annual Grammy Awards wearing a Swarovski clutch teamed with a casual yet elegant black outfit.

You can always fall back on a dark shade when you want to look skinny and chic. Don’t forget to double-check in the mirror to make sure you look good in a tight top and cropped trousers.

June 2013 |

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Fashion

Pick your Tribe

Patterns and mixed colours are the main themes incorporated in the ethnic style. So, sometimes, to put this look together is a bit of a challenge. WTM chose two ways to show you how to pull it off!

Guess

Bina Goenka

Lanvin

Juliann

e Hough

one

Hannah Sim

Mango

Charles & Keith

Classy Tribal Elizabeth Banks

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| June 2013

Monsoon

A casual dress with ethnic prints speaks for itself; it will be certainly the focal point of your look.

The accessories should follow the colour palette and should either complement the look bits or remain minimal. Double-check in the mirror to see if you didn’t go overboard. After celebrities embraced this concept, the tribal dress has migrated from the fanciest events to becoming everyday wear. www.womanthismonth.com

Louis Vuitton

Emilio Pucci

Tory Burch

Accessorize

Nicole Richie

Kate Bosworth

Marc Jacobs

Parfois

Promod

Bulgari

Geisha Style

Geox

When we see a kimono, the first thing that pops out in our minds is the Orient and its mysteries. In fashion, it represents comfort and style. You can wear it by itself or dress it up with a pair of trousers for a casual look. Western brands have given it different cuts, re-inventing this ancient garment.

However, the original concept remains and this is a versatile piece that can be worn by any body shape. The important point to remember is to ‘shape’ your waist and you are ready to go. www.womanthismonth.com

Camilla Bella

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Fashion

‘70s

Gap

Back to the

Next

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| June 2013

Dorothy Perkins

Kate Beckinsale

The tie-dye just got renovated for summer. The stained fabric that was popular in the hippie era comes in a cool selection of painted bikinis, shirts, dresses and, especially, trousers — the big hit of this season.

If you are bored of your old jeans, you can transform it into the tie-dye style. If you don’t want to get your hands dirty, stop by your favourite store to be on trend.

Salsa

Elle Macpherson

Versace

Stradivarius

Juicy Couture

Lacoste Livet

Celebrity Look:

Elle Macpherson and Kate Beckinsale adopted the concept, pairing it with basic pieces for a casual, contemporary look. www.womanthismonth.com

Style Up! Punt Roma

There is a dress code for every occasion; the secret is to make sure that you choose a style that sits comfortably with your mood and the event itself.

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s women, we learn to be many people in a single body; each role calls for a different look. Some days we opt to tap a classic style, while on others we want to play with a casual look. At Punt Roma, you can find pieces that allow you to be, well, yourself!

Patterns and colours are main themes of the season’s styles. If you want to go for a modern

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look, striped dresses are a smart choice. For a more elegant look, classic patterns in black, white and gold, in a straight cut, will deliver this look.

However, if you are in a romantic mood, floral prints are the way to go — in dresses, tops or trousers.

Call 17 172-307.

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Fashion

Clean Colours MARKS & SPENCER

We all feel the need to refresh our appearance with the arrival of new collections. The challenge is to find clothes that represent the spirit of these brighter days that match your own style.

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he new season is here; wouldn’t it be great if you could find all of your most-wanted picks in one place? Marks & Spencer has a selection of fashionable outfits and accessories for every taste and style. Your job is to choose the colour pattern that best represents you; and mix and match cuts for a dream spring/summer wardrobe.

Pastel hues are key pieces; pairing them together is an easy way to accomplish the perfect summer look. The indispensable ‘white’ can be seen throughout M&S’s latest collections; it’s ideal to emphasise light colours, as it offers a middle ground to offset lighter hues.

What’s more, accessories turn on your imagination and allow you to create different outfits. Opting for faded colours is a good option for summer in the Kingdom. Also, look for the new M&S store that is now open in Bahrain City Centre. Call 17 587-778 (Seef).

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oysho

Edgy and Comfy Every woman looks for fashionable pieces to add to their wardrobe and when those items are combined with comfort, it is love at first sight.

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hen in the mood for stylish cuts and comfortable materials, Oysho is certainly the brand to shop at. Besides being well-known for its lingerie and sleepwear line, they also stand out for their high quality beachwear and gymwear.

The spring/summer swimwear collection focuses on details like crochet, frills, lurex, metallic trims, as well as new fabrics that will add a special touch to your long summer days

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by the beach. Bring sophistication to the white sandy beaches of the Kingdom.

Adopting the same concept of comfort and style, Oysho’s chic sportswear will give you the necessary push to go to the gym. The new collection gives you the excitement of getting dressed to impress. It brings an array of stretchy leggings, short shorts, slouchy shirts, oversized parkas, bodysuits, sports suits and crop tops.

Get ready for summer! Call 17 172-304 (BCC)

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Fashion

The Feminine Touch promod

A woman should always keep within her wardrobe a collection of loyal dresses; you never know when a bout of ‘I have nothing to wear’ will descend upon you.

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resses are simply indispensable in any woman’s wardrobe; they represent femininity and are just as relevant whether you are a teenager or a doting grandmother. Promod has an extensive selection of these ‘essentials’ with options ranging from a night out with friends to a relaxing summer day with your family.

Short dresses are the right pick for casual commitments and best paired with flat sandals and statement accessories. Knee-length ones are your companion when you want to impress, in tandem with high heels.

Moreover, with such a variety of textures, colours and cuts, Promod affords you the opportunity to pick a dress for any occasion, with the assurance of always looking good and, above all, feeling feminine! Call 17 172-309.

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Inspired by Nature CHARLES & KEITH

The natural world around us yields a palette of shades that, not unsurprisingly, creates the perfect colour combination.

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harles & Keith puts you in touch with the best of nature bringing a variety of handbags and shoes painted in browns, greens and yellows. These natural hues are a perfect match for the bright days of summer.

So, instead of pairing your favourite fashionable pieces with black, replace it with natural colours to create the ideal look for your everyday appearance. The use of materials such as cork and raffia are an interesting way to embrace this concept.

Another trend inspired by nature is the use of snakeskin and its texture. It adds a refined touch to your look, without stealing the scene, and is the accessory when you want to add an accent to your outfit and stay on-trend this season.

Call 17 179-307 (BCC), 17 582-070 (Seef Mall) or 17 682-607 (Isa Town Mall).

www.womanthismonth.com

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Fashion

Unique Flair dune

Make the best of your wardrobe with accessories that allow you to define and create your own style.

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he best way to showcase your creativity and individual style is to add standout accessories to your look. You can acquire the elegance and sophistication you’ve been aiming for with Dune’s exclusive pieces. Trendy patterns and colour blocking, multiple textures and statement pieces are all available in abundance in the brand’s collections of handbags and shoes.

Aside from increasing the versatility of your wardrobe, accessories represent your own ‘trademark’ style. Your daily work clothes can be spiced up with the correct item, adding a personal touch to your look.

The ability to mix and match can be improved by the inspiration you’ll find browsing through the range of options found within Dune’s stores.

Call 16 686-215 (BCC) or 16 686-225 (Seef Mall).

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High Fashion NINE WEST

Whether you’re off to work or ready to party, all it takes to add some zing to your outfit is an item that stands out from the rest of your ensemble.

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esign is synonymous with fashion; different cuts, shapes and patterns are important aspects for those who love to stay in style. Nine West has a selection that will please the most chic woman with its dazzling pieces, eye-catchers which are all you need to be the centre of attraction.

Wedges, pumps and flats covered in bright colours, distinct patterns and carefully-chosen material are just the right add-ons to embellish your look. Your basic jeans and white shirt combination will resonate when teamed with a singe alluring item.

So, pick your favourite pair of shoes from Nine West to leave your mark wherever you go!

Call 16 686-207 (BCC), 16 686-220 (Seef Mall) or 16 686-228 (Bahrain Mall).

www.womanthismonth.com

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Fashion

Chic and Edgy ALDO ACCESSORIES

A laid-back look can be conquered if you’ve perfected the details; nothing transforms an outfit like the right accessories.

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ny look can be refreshed when you add the right item to it. A gown or shift dress can get an instant update with a new and trendy pair of shoes or a statement necklace. Aldo Accessories helps you find that missing piece in your wardrobe puzzle, for any style you want to create.

Caps, studs and skulls are the go-to trends for a modern and cool style.

You can pick them to reveal a young appeal and contemporary vision.

However, if you don’t want to overdo the concept, a single piece oozes both elegance and sophistication.

Metal clutches in bright colours, shoulder bags and unique sunglasses are perfect to give your ensemble a fresh touch.

Call 16 686-214 (BCC), 16 686-221 (Seef Mall), 16 686-233 (The Center) and 16 686-231 (Isa Town Mall).

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Beauty News

Beauty

Evoke the tropical scents of the season to add colourful hues to your make-up kit and give your skin some extra care and attention.

Bright and Breezy

Make up For Ever reveals their Lift Concealer, which works to naturally hide dark circles and minor complexion discolourations, improving skin tones and smoothing the lines around the eyes.

Available at Make Up For Ever.

True Colours

Do you want flawless skin without showing that you are wearing make-up? Too Faced’s No Make-up Make-up has a combination of shades and formulas to achieve this goal.

Each of the products in the palette multitasks, the crème blush, for instance, also works as a lip colour.

Available at Sephora.

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Customisable Palette

To create a unique look, Urban Decay allows you to create your own shadow palette.

With space for four different shades, you can combine your favourite colours with the new ‘moonflower’ shadow. The hue is a light copper/ peach shimmer with a subtle silver sparkle.

Available at all leading retailers.

Clean Up Act

Eye make-up is increasingly water resistant these days with the release of waterproof and long-lasting mascaras, pencils and shadows. To embrace these cosmetic advances, Clarins has reformulated their removers to offer more effective make-up removal.

Available at all leading retailers.

Let it Shine Pure Color Long Lasting is the latest limited edition lipstick from Estée Lauder. The two summery shades — solar crush and fuchsia fever — envelop the lips in tangerine and pink tones. These vibrant glosses have a long-lasting formula with fruit extracts for a fadeproof pout.

Available at all leading retailers.

www.womanthismonth.com

Bye Bye, Grease!

Under the Skin

Matifying Day Gel, from Lange Paris, is a moisturiser for oily skin types, with a quick rate of absorbency that creates a smooth and nongreasy complexion, using essential oils, plants and seaweed extracts.

Available at Gulf Pharmacy.

If you are looking for a product that will help fight ageing, these new serums by La Prairie are the perfect solution. Cellular Power Serum provides energy, protection for your face and neck. The formula’s components keep your complexion looking young and healthy. Available at all leading retailers.

Well in Hand

Taking care of your hands must be at the top of your beauty care list. Dove’s hand cream contains a deep care formula and includes natural skin nutrients and rich essential oils to nourish your skin. You can avoid worn out nails with extra moisturising.

Available at all leading retailers.

www.womanthismonth.com

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Beauty

Leave your

Mark

The fragrance you choose allows you to tell a story about yourself. So, select the best scents that most accurately represent your personality and one that will linger.

Hush Hush

Nina L’Eau is the new fragrance from Nina Ricci. Its fresh, fruity and floral aroma comes from frosted neroli, apple blossom, gardenia and notes of white musk. The perfume remains faithful to the brand DNA, but becomes more sensual and mysterious. Available at leading retailers.

Above the Fold

Issey Miyake is known globally for his signature pleats; now his iconic line, Pleats Please, has its own fragrance. It’s a scent that pays homage to a fashion revolution, with an infusion of emotion and is an ode to joy. Available at leading retailers.

An Enigmatic Scent

La Petite Robe Noire is the new eau de toilette from Guerlain.

The fragrance is a bouquet of roses, jasmine and orange blossom that gives a delicate, light and feminine aroma. It also has hints of cherry, apple, blackcurrant, amber and musk.

Available at leading retailers.

A Soft Trail

Captured at daybreak by L’Occitane, Rose Aurore Eau Fraiche is a light, transparent and floral scent.

Containing rose absolutes from the Mediterranean, the head notes are lemon, orange and bergamot and the heart notes combine amber and musk.

Available at L’Occitane.

Pure Intentions

pureDKNY is a fragrance inspired by the pure Turkish rose and is eco-friendly. The glass and aluminum used in the bottle are 100 per cent recyclable, the carton is bio-degradable and is printed using low-VOC ink and the outer wrap is made of cellulose.

Available at leading retailers.

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Under the Sun

Bronze Goddess from Estee Lauder

Beauty

Summer is now here and we can already feel its warm touch. Tanning season is open — are you going for the sun-kissed look?

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Honey Bronze from The Body Shop

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n some cultures, tanned skin is not synonymous to beauty. However in most Western countries, summer is the right time to dispense with a washed out look.

A coral dress will shine better, yellow gets brighter and blues catch our attention when in contrast to the skin. As warm days are the best time to take colours out of the wardrobe; teaming them with tinted skin results in a stunning look.

The bronze colour is also an indicator that you have some spare time to sunbathe, implying a great lifestyle and, finally, it means that your pocket has disposable income. Of course, this statement is not necessarily true.

You can absorb the sunbeam on your rooftop

and the results will be just the same. But, nobody needs to know!

But before you run outside, here are a few considerations to think about.

reach. Otherwise you will look tanned coming and pale leaving!

The tanning bed is another option, if you are an enthusiast of this technique.

Sunbathing At this point, it must be a cliché to talk about the importance of sunblock. Sunscreen is essential to protect your skin.

You won’t regret it. Alongside all the benefits of sunlight, there is also a downside. The rays from the sun burn your skin and make it look older. When the colour fades out, it won’t be shiny and glossy anymore.

Fake Tan Another way of getting the bronzed look is to use a self-tanning product. The body and facial bronzer lotions deliver a summer look without exposing your body to the harmful effects of the sun.

You can find these products around town to get a glowing effect. Rub it on before going to a party; it is certainly not permanent. You will probably have to reapply it every other day and avoid hot showers, but it’s worth it if you want to impress.

An important tip is to be very careful when spreading it to get uniform coverage. You also need some help getting to the parts you can’t

Getting Ready Before you decide whether you will go for sunbathing or fake bronze, you can prepare your skin by exfoliating it first; either way it will produce a quality tan that will last longer.

Use a salt-free product and give special attention to rough areas. The exfoliation removes dead skin cells which not only reflect light but also can’t tan. It will help increase your circulation and oxygen levels.

Moisturise after exfoliating to maximise your tan; this helps improve the health of your skin and protects it from harmful agents.

Final Word No matter what you choose; wear sunscreen!

Actually, always, during the Gulf summer. Apply it not only on your face, but also on your arms.

No matter the tone of your skin, the protection is not to avoid pigmentation, but to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun.

If you want to sunbathe, the best time is in the early hours of the morning.

On The Shelves Bronze Goddess Luminous Liquid Bronzer is the self tanning product from Estée Lauder. Its unique formula blends bronzing pigments in a ‘pearlised’, reflective base for sheer natural radiance.

Sunblock Cream Lange 50+ cream is a facial sunblock rich in natural plant extracts to protect the skin exposed to sun. The active ingredients are aloe vera, camelia, cucumber and hamamelis.

Honey Bronze This light-weight moisturising body oil from The Body Shop gives a natural bronzed shimmering glow with a dry finish to the skin. It contains Community Fair Trade from Ethiopia and beeswax from Cameroon.

www.womanthismonth.com

Airbrushed Legs The make-up spray from Sally Hansen is a lightweight make-up for legs that eliminate the appearance of veins, freckles, bruises and imperfections leaving legs looking smooth and polished.

The liquid is formulated with palmaria extract; no sun is required!

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Social Butterfly Anne & Dr Fakhriya

Dr Fakhriya Ladies Breakfast

Dr Fakhriya hosted a ladies breakfast for some of her friends at the Veranda Cafe in Adhari Zahra & Sajida

Rosita & Nasreen Rosita, Nasreen, Anne, Dr Fakhriya, Zahra & Sajida

Al Madrasa Art Exhibition

Al Madrasa for Art held its fifth annual students art exhibition at the school located in Hamala

Buthaina with students

Reem, Fatima & Noor

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Buthaina & Ahmed

Hussain & Zainab

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Celebrity Lifestyle

You’re a Star!

By Elma Bartholomew

Everyone wants to know what you’re up to, where you’re going, what you’re eating, who you’re seeing. Who’s to tell you aren’t a celebrity?

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ith the inescapable social media scene today, your life is everybody’s business. People are fascinated by how much you weigh, who you meet, what you wear and just generally like to stay aware of what you do. So why not make the most of it? Give the society reason to envy you. Woman this Month calls out your inner diva.

We spend much of our lives wanting to be someone else. It’s why we sift through glossies, it’s why we catch up on gossip, it’s why we do almost anything we do in our spare time. We look at someone and we think: I want her hair, I want her shoes and I want her car. You basically want her life, not realising you are already that person and most probably better.

We often forget to give ourselves credit for what we’re great at. We assume luxury is something set aside for another day, another life. Well, you’re wrong. Every now and then even you deserve to be treated like an A-lister and if someone isn’t spoiling you, feel free to pamper yourself. www.womanthismonth.com

Eat Let’s face it; even the air of Bahrain is fattening. So numb those calorie counting genes in your system at least occasionally.

Learn to enjoy the most luxurious thing under the sun — food!

Fortunately, the Kingdom is replete with fine dining outlets. You could either hit the 338 dining district in Adliya for a great meal surrounded by works of art and a dose of culture. Zoe, Café Italia, Lanterns, Meisei, Block 338 and Camelot are worth a visit.

Seef has a vast selection as well with standalone venues like Bushido, Trader Vic’s and Nino. Considered the ultimate destination for the cream of the crop, Moda Mall houses three noteworthy restaurants: Maki, Abd el Wahab and Bice.

Of course, we can’t forget the array of exquisite dining outlets nestled within the fivestar hotels, especially the many speciality restaurants at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel, Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel

Bahrain City Centre, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa and InterContinental Regency. Those who have resided in the country for a while are full of praise for the brunches at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa, Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain, Golden Tulip, Crowne Plaza and The RitzCarlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa. Newer entrants into the fine dining scenario are the restaurants at The Domain Bahrain and Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa. Live To live the high life, you should do just that — live in it! Pack your bags and set out for a weekend of absolute luxury. You don’t even have to leave the city! It’s amazing what three carefree days can do for you. Believe it or not, ‘alone time’ is just as good a therapy. Staying away from all the hustle and bustle of work and family can actually cut out those noises in your head.

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Celebrity Lifestyle make it a timeout with the girls! Yes, we approve of Sex and the City getaways.

Remember the butlers and the views? You could have that right here in Bahrain!

Take a dip in a temperature-controlled pool with a view of the city’s skyline or revel in the blue waters of the endless sea. You could also just relax with a book in the bath and go on a full-on pamper spree with room service. There’s nothing wrong with living in a bath robe and slippers!

Take advantage of the wonderful dining options and spas within the hotels. Many of the five-star venues have separate chalets and villas if you’re looking for a more private setting.

Al Bander Hotel & Resort in Sitra, The Dragon Hotel & Resort in Amwaj and Novotel Al Dana Resort in Muharraq are three unique alternatives to the more traditional concept of hotels. They offer an exciting range of water sports and other activities. Remember, these venues provide tours as well for those of you who’d like to see Bahrain from a tourist’s perspective.

Relax Nothing says complete relaxation like a day at the spa. Quit looking at the right side of the menu and focus on the needs of your body. If it’s a complete overhaul that you need, go for it! There’s no set rule that you are only allowed a spa ritual if you’re about to get married.

Every woman deserves to be spoilt (at least once in a while, if not always). Go ahead and get a full package that includes a body scrub, bath, massage, facial, mani-pedi and hair treatments. Top spas offer free consultations to help choose products and treatments that better suit your skin, hair and body type.

A name that remains on top of every girl’s mind, for good reason, is Dessange. It truly is the complete package with separate areas focussing on each beauty department. They’ve

got experts at hand, each specialised in their particular field of work. The fitness programmes available here are quite popular with locals and expats alike.

A hidden jewel is La Fontaine Spa, which is dedicated to natural therapies, like ayurvedic massages and treatments. It is hard to believe that this unique setting is in the middle of the city. Offering a range of beauty products from Greece and a selection of rooms, they invite you to be one with nature.

The thalassotherapy complex at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa offers an array of seawater-based treatments, including hydrotherapy. They boast a number of individual rooms as well, which will be allotted to you based on the package of your choice.

The two pools in close vicinity allow for a quick dip before or after your treatment.

Pure Spa at Kempinski Grand & Ixir Hotel Bahrain City Centre helps you drift away into a world of tranquillity, while they gently ease away the stress of modern living. We can’t ignore its proximity to the biggest mall in the Kingdom.

The exclusive wellness concept at The RitzCarlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa promises you’ll feel rejuvenated head-to-toe after every visit.

You need to find your personal style and stick to it. If you’re out to imitate, you’re out to buy the whole mall!

Find all the high-end brands at Moda Mall in the Diplomatic Area at the ground floor of Bahrain’s World Trade Centre. Al A’ali Shopping Complex has a fair share of top designers as well.

Bahrain City Centre and Seef Mall have been the favourite malls of the Kingdom’s shoppers since its opening. Home to a wide range of retail outlets, these shopping complexes have all that you need under a single roof, especially in respect to gadgets. Staying updated with the newest gizmos available is made easier with these malls. If you’re going all out with your spending spree, get a new ride from the allnew Maserati showroom in Moda Mall.

Speaking of which, you could visit the showrooms along the Sitra highway for your new car. You’ve got the likes of Euromotors, Bin Hindi Motors, Y K Almoayyed, Almoayyed, Haddad Motors and more welcoming you to rev up your engines.

Shop Who couldn’t do with a wardrobe makeover?

How often do you see a celebrity in the same outfit (leaving behind Mrs Beckham’s obsession for her thin black leather belt)? Of course, we’re not asking you to strut your way into bankruptcy.

We might not be able to have a closet bigger than our bedroom, but after following our fashion pages you should know that all you need to give new life to old outfits is a statement piece. Do your research, see what wardrobe essentials you’re missing and go hunting for the perfect item. Shop responsibly; even the big shots are doing it.

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Tel. 7 7 4 4 4 4 8 8

Celebrity Lifestyle

Jet-setting Style

By Maryam Toorani

Ever wonder how celebrities hop off a plane looking red carpet ready? Make the airport your personal runway by following these simple Hollywood-inspired rules.

1. Comfort is key.

Cramped legroom and a four-hour flight doesn’t leave much scope for hot stilettos. You can however opt for wedges or wedged boots — comfy and stylish.

2. Cover up with shades.

Sure you won’t have a sea of photographers or fans waiting for your arrival, but you never know who you could bump into at the airport.

Kick up your elusive allure by wearing some dark shades.

3. Pile on the layers.

One thing celebs love while on the go is functionality; that’s why they are always carrying a cardigan or light blazer. It keeps you warm if the plane is too cold and a blazer paired with casual jeans and a tank can easily go from day to night outfits with a pair of heels.

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4. Dry shampoo.

All that altitude and snoozing off can give anyone airplane hair. For an instant lift, a spritz of dry shampoo will do the trick.

5. Last minute make-up.

Moisturise and put on concealer before getting onto a plane, but leave the finishing touches like mascara and lipstick for half an hour before you land.

6. Dress up.

Who says you have to be low key? If you are on a short flight, take a cue from Victoria Beckham and glam it up.

7. Accessorise the right way.

No, don’t pile on the jewellery, but make a statement with your luggage. If you can’t afford ‘LV’ adorned bags a la the Kardashian

sisters, make a splash with a funky-coloured suitcase instead.

8. All about the pooch.

Celebrities can’t stand to be separated from their pets. Make sure you invest in a comfy pet-case if you are bringing your pup along to your next trip.

9. Snuggle up.

One trend that the hottest A-listers (even the guys) are rocking is scarves. Go for a printed one to channel the boho-chic look of Vanessa Hudgens.

10. Tone it down.

To get through as quick as possible, (you know, to avoid all the paparazzi dying to take pictures of you) you have to be security-friendly. So make sure not to wear too many accessories. www.womanthismonth.com

People

Sheezell Ali

Fitness Alert oxygen gym

Summer calls for pool parties and swimsuits. However, not everyone is confident about their body. We speak to an expert for tips on staying fit all year round.

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heezell Ali has been an athlete all her life. The 26-year-old, however, has channelled her love for sports by dedicating her life to the fitness industry. Working as a gym instructor in addition to taking up roles of a personal and group trainer at Oxygen Gym in Budaiya, she has spent the last six years helping people reach their fitness goals.

Once having dreamt of being a surgeon, Sheezell had to divert her interests after facing certain health issues in her own life. Today, she helps people achieve maximum fitness results by optimising exercises for each individual body.

Listen up!

“There are a big number of women hitting the gym; their fitness level can get better if they are active outside the gym as well. For instance, do house chores, walk more often and use stairs where necessary,” Sheezell explains.

“Women think if they lift heavy weights, they’ll get huge and if you lift light weights with high reps, you’ll just tone. Muscles only know

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how to grow one way; how big they get depends on gender and genetics.”

According to the expert, women need to focus on strengthening legs. Do wall sits, squats, calf raises, and lunges. Give at least 15 minutes of attention to your legs every day before you run or cycle.

Stay-at-home mums can use aerobics or pilates DVDs when the babies are napping or playing. They can add resistance in everything they do, like squats and lunges while doing laundry and putting dishes in dishwasher.

The important things People can set goals by focusing on the main principles: be specific; set an achievable goal; be realistic and have a time frame. Small, manageable steps are better than one big drastic change.

“An ideal weight loss plan involves eating healthy, having plenty of water, fruits and vegetables, 45 minutes of exercise at least four times a week and appropriate amount of sleep,” Sheezell advises.

For the perfect beach body this season, she recommends removing the biggest exercise myth: ‘Train hard and you can eat whatever you want’.

“Eat little and often, with more protein. Cut out diuretics, like caffeine and alcohol, and have six to eight glasses of water a day. Not only will you appear slimmer, you’ll seem more toned, because your body will create a reserve of water below your muscles, pressing them out and adding definition,” she explains.

It is never too late to begin exercising, she believes. Adults who begin to work out in their later years still appear to live longer, have lower risk of disabilities and cardiovascular diseases.

Apart from having qualified trainers like Sheezell, Oxygen Gym has a very friendly and comfortable environment in addition to classes for every gender and age. They even organise classes for mums and babies, which is rarely found in gyms. It’s all about family health here.

Call 17 616-165. www.womanthismonth.com

Competition

Win Dinner for Two By now you will have seen and flipped through our Perfect 10 cookbook. Here's your chance to show off your cooking skills.

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ook up your favourite dish from our recently launched Perfect 10 cookbook, and you could find yourself being waited on at one of the top restaurants in the Kingdom.

Thanks to the Gulf Hotel, the Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain and Nino Restaurant, 'Dinner for Two' vouchers are up for grabs. So, whether it is sampling the delights at one of the many venues at the Gulf Hotel, feasting on a theme night at the Movenpick or enjoying Italian fare at Nino, you are guaranteed a great night out.

Nino Restaurant

Here's what to do! l Select a dish from the Perfect 10 Cookbook l Cook the dish in the comfort of your home l Take a picture of yourself together with your cooked dish l Send the image, together with a couple of sentences as to why you chose the dish, to us at editor@womanthismonth.com.

That's It!

Silk's Restaurant @ Movenpick Hotel

Competition dates The competition will run through to the end of May 2013, at which point a carefully selected panel of judges will decide upon the winners.

Instagram On receipt of your image, we will then post it on our Instagram page @woman_this_month for all our followers to see.

Of course, you could always invite your friends to a cook-up, sending us all your dishes.

Sato @ The Gulf Hotel

The world has changed. Tastes have changed. That’s why we’ve redefined what you can expect from a luxury holiday. Relax on an upper deck of natural grass or restaurants where the design matches the exceptional cuisine. Service that’s intuitive and personal, yet discreet. The light and contemporary feel of a top boutique spa resort but with much more choices.

All because we believe every moment of your holiday should be truly extraordinary.

That’s what we call Modern Luxury.

info@royalcaribbean-arabia.com Call: +971 4 331 4299 / 85 www.SafeenTourism.com/CelebrityCruises

www.womanthismonth.com

June 2013 |

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Celebrity Lifestyle

Eating Rainbows

From fashion and beauty to political stances, Hollywood influences all aspects of our lives. We look into a health craze that is sweeping the world, thanks to Tinsel town.

A

ccording to the likes of Jennifer Aniston and Mariah Carey, a berry a day can keep the doctor away. Yes, you heard us; forget the apples, oranges and anything that isn’t in a violet hue. The Purple Diet is an anti-ageing regimen where you eat nothing but — you guessed it — purple-coloured foods.

Other than being arguably the prettiest diet around, what beats a plate full of berries, plums and grapefruit; it’s also very high in antioxidants.

Studies show that the regal colour is pigmented by anthocyanin, a health promoting anti-inflammatory chemical that can help reduce the risk of cancer and improve memory.

The fruits and vegetables are also packed with flavonoids, known to be one of the most powerful phytochemicals. These are hearthealthy and control glucose so they are very diabetes friendly. On top of that, quick shedding 46

| June 2013

of pounds is guaranteed — win, win!

Although it is one of the ‘healthier’ diet fads that have come and gone, there are some drawbacks. For instance, it is very restricted.

Now, we love fruits, veggies and legumes as much as the next person, but unless you can find a purple lamb chop or chicken breast, your options are very limited.

Besides, too much of a good thing is probably not that good, and we have scientific facts to back us up this time. It’s known that antioxidants neutralise free radicals in our system, but studies now show that although they’re harmful in excess, our body needs some free radicals to do things like fight infections.

What we suggest is instead of a full on colour coded diet, why not incorporate the purple ‘super foods’ into your lifestyle? This way, it isn’t limited to a few days where all the benefits that we reaped are lost right after.

Purple Stars Here are three things you should be eating on a regular basis.

Eggplant: This antioxidant powerhouse is low in calories and high in fibre. Mix up the vegetable with fresh tomatoes, parsley and lemon for a tasty, healthy lunch.

Grapes: The skin of purple grapes is a great source of resveratrol, a bioflavonoid that has been shown to promote a healthy heart. Whip up a breakfast smoothie by blending purple grapes, berries, a banana and Greek yogurt.

Cabbage: A great store of vitamin C and vitamin K, this veggie works wonders for the skin and is said to help prevent cancer.

Stir fry small chunks of chicken breasts with sliced purple cabbage, carrots and mushroom. Serve with whole-wheat noodles for a delicious dinner.

www.womanthismonth.com

CERAM DENTAL SPECIALIST CENTRE

Want a Celebrity Smile?

Have you always wanted a million dollar Hollywood smile that doesn’t look fake? We sit down with Dr Rim Bogari to learn more.

A

s much as we love it when celebrities flash their pearly whites for the camera, the trend these days is steering away from the perfect and towards the natural.

“The Hollywood smile became very popular for a while, but today more and more patients want a healthy and more natural look.

They don’t want the big white teeth that overwhelm the entire face,” explains Dr Rim Bogari of Ceram Dental Specialist Centre.

To achieve this, the pioneering centre offers its patients custom porcelain veneers that are personalised to their taste, complexion, hair and eye colour and lips — not too white and not too big.

“We incorporate more translucent colouring along with the whiter Hollywood veneers.

The translucency and the surface texture deflect the light in a way that gives the patient a beautiful smile,” says the dentist.

The team at Ceram Dental use a combination of dental expertise, as well as artistry to provide their customers with the utmost care, comfort and quality services.

“We not only provide the solution for perfect veneers, we are artists that transform your smile into a unique and everlasting Hollywood smile that changes your life. There is a heart in every tooth, we keep yours young,” adds Dr Rim.

Dr Rim Bogari Before

After

Call 17 131-123.

Villa 84, Road 66 Block 360 New Zinj, Manama

Tel.: +973 17 131 123 E-mail: ceramdsc@gmail.com ceramdental

Bahrain

Ceram Specialist Dental Center is the top of the line, most advanced and experienced Dental Center, located in the heart of the Central area of the Kingdom of Bahrain. Our team Dr. Haidar Hamdi Al Fayad ( Prosthodontist and Cosmetic Dentist ) highly qualified, Dr. Rim Bogari ( Cosmetic and General Dentist ( German education ), Dr. Gerhardt Klein ( our Implantologist ), and Dr. Alaeddin Abukhalaf ( Orthodontist ) are our professional highly educated and multi lingual (Arabic, English and German). www.womanthismonth.com

June 2013 |

47

Celebrity Lifestyle

At Face Value

Her sophistication has always attracted the brand, and Chanel has now extended their work with Diane Kruger by using her for a new beauty campaign.

D

iane is a close friend of Karl Lagerfeld, has fronted ad campaigns for Chanel’s fragrance and handbag lines and is a regular on the front row at the French fashion house’s catwalk shows. So, it comes as no surprise that she has been named as the new face of Chanel Skincare.

“With her natural elegance and beauty, Diane Kruger is one of the most famous faces of international cinema,” read a statement from the brand. “Attracted by her cosmopolitan spirit and artistic background, the House of Chanel chose her for its Allure fragrance advertising campaign in 1996; then again for the ParisBiarritz bag advertising campaign, shot by Karl Lagerfeld in 2007.”

The 36-year-old German actress will turn her attention to the beauty range with a new advertisement due to be released later this year. This is her first foray into make-up for Chanel, where she’ll be joining their other beautiful ambassador — Gisele Bündchen, the face of the brand’s Les Beiges make-up line.

Kruger has known Chanel creative director Karl Lagerfeld since she was 16 and frequently wears his designs on the red carpet, describing him as being “like a godfather” to her. The new face of the skincare collection has a few tips and secrets to spare.

“The one thing I always travel with is my concealer,” she revealed. “No matter what I do, whether it’s playing up my eyes or creating a bold lip, the skin is the most important thing.

It has to look flawless and have an even tone.”

The woman is an absolute natural for a skincare brand ambassador, boasting the kind of unmarked, pristine complexion we envision in our dreams.

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www.womanthismonth.com

Showcase RAMADA PALACE HOTEL

A Royal Palette

For authenticity and ambience Akbar Restaurant is your number one choice for the ‘royal taste of India’, a cuisine fit for kings.

C

onnoisseurs of the northern India culinary experience — enhanced from the palettes and tastes of royalty — know that some of the best North Indian cuisine to be found on our shores is at the Ramada Palace Hotel, in Gudaibiya.

Featuring authentic Mughlai dishes, this fine dining concept boasts a warm family atmosphere with nightly live entertainment, featuring melodious Ghazals and songs.

The restaurant fills the senses with music, mood and delicious dishes transporting diners to the homely villages where sumptuous describes the food, the atmosphere and the memories.

A weekend of luxury On Fridays, enjoy a lunch time buffet and on Saturday a dinner buffet where guests will be served up a superb array of starters, sizzling, kebabs, curries and variety of dishes prepared especially by the chef.

Friday lunch and Saturday dinner buffets are priced at just BD 5++ per person, making the experience both affordable and great value for money.

Numerous à la carte dishes can be found on the menu; Chef Younus brings more than two decades of culinary skills to delicacies such as tandoori kebabs, toofani jhinga and lobster, and Hyderabadi seekh kebab along with dum pukht biryani, the infamous dal Makhani dumdar and so much more. Call 17 296-660.

Akbar Brings back the royal taste to Bahrain

Friday special Lunch Buffet and Saturday Dinner Buffet BD 5++

aayy rryydd

Li ve Ghazals E ve

leave the rest to us

SM

Tel: +973 17296660 email:info@ramadapalacehotel.com www.ramadapalacehotel.com

www.womanthismonth.com

June 2013 |

49

Celebrity Lifestyle

Throw a Celeb-worthy Bash

By Maryam Toorani

Do you want to party like a rock star? Here’s what you should do to bring the Hamptons or Miami lifestyle to our little island.

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www.womanthismonth.com

1.

Multiple day party. Having one party to celebrate a special occasion is a thing of the past. Did you know that Naomi Campbell enjoyed a USD1.8 million three-day bash in Dubai for her 36th birthday?

2.

Location, location, location. To party like a Hollywood star, you will have to spend like one. Instead of getting your friends together at home, why not plan a weekend getaway?

3. All about the music. These days, everyone can hire a DJ at a party. Stand out from the crowd and get some live entertainment. Didn’t President Obama have Beyoncé belt out at his inauguration?

4.

Keep your guests entertained. To make sure your friends don’t leave right after dinner, it’s essential to have some fun games and entertainment lined up like a videogame challenge. Katy Perry asked her guests to wear all white and then had a cake frosting fight at one of her parties.

5.

Hire help. A-listers do not go around serving snacks to their guests and neither should you. Spend some cash and hire ushers, servers and maybe a valet too!

6. Don’t cook. Food is one of the key elements of a gathering, so don’t mess it up with your mom’s mac and cheese recipe. Have a professional do the cooking.

7. Paparazzi action. One thing you can count on at a celeb party

is the paparazzi. Give your guest that five-star treatment and bring in a professional photo booth or have a photographer take shots of everyone throughout the night.

8. Party favours. If there is one thing stars love, it’s giving away

free stuff — and getting them too! Let your guests walk away with a little show of appreciation. A make-up goodie bag for the girls, perhaps?

Nothing too drastic though.

9. Invites are key. First impressions last. That’s why your

invitations should make a statement. Keep it bold but simple enough so as to not seem desperate for attention.

10.

VIP treatment. Nothing says luxury like an after party. Send out a special VIP invite to your close circle of friends. For a celebrity this could mean a quick midnight getaway to Paris, but we will settle for an exclusive ‘girls only’ sleepover.

11. Roll out the red carpet. Yes, literally.

12. Interview your guests. Ask them what they are wearing.

Take a picture of them and post it on your Instagram account.

13.

MasterChef presentation. Don’t just order pizza and pass it around. If you are aiming for a ‘high-end’ feel, you will have to have a good presentation of your food and beverages. Be creative and also have bite-sized snacks going around.

14.

Have a theme. Another thing that could add to the hype of your party is having a specific theme. Given that summer is finally upon us, you can’t go wrong with a pool party.

15. Loosen up. The key to being a fun host is actually having fun.

Don’t take the night too seriously and loosen up! We are sure partyhoppers like Lindsay Lohan and Paris Hilton will vouch for that.

16.

Make an entrance. Many celebrities don’t wait around to greet their guests and instead make a grand entrance. You know how Lady Gaga got carried into the Grammys by shirtless men? Yeah, don’t do that.

17. Rent out a venue. It may be more expensive but it’s also

much more convenient. If you rent out a restaurant or ballroom, guests will find it easier and there will be no parking space issue.

18. Have your guests arrive in style. Go all out and offer

your friends and family a limo pick-up service.

19.

Introduce a signature drink. Get the bartenders to mix up a drink that sticks to your theme and name it after yourself. Also, have premium brands available for alternatives.

20.

Prepare a toast. Personalise your party by addressing your friends and family. Having a spotlight on you while you speak isn’t too much, is it? www.womanthismonth.com

June 2013 |

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Celebrity Lifestyle

Inside Celeb Homes

By Elma Bartholomew

They decide our wardrobes and our looks; let the designers call the shots to decide what your den should look like. Here are two contrasting interior choices for those of you who’d like to live the high life.

Crate & Barrel

A Loft Spot Living in an apartment shouldn’t stop you from residing in luxury. For those with a keen eye and good taste, opulence can be created with the simplest of things. Take a look at Derek Lam’s loft. His usage of clean, crisp silhouettes on the ramp is exercised in his NYC home as well.

Using single statement pieces, he has given new life to the minimalist trend. Apparently, you can’t have enough vases, chairs and tables in the same room. For Lam, it seems ‘more is less’. The trick is to avoid block-like pieces and opt for furniture with legs.

Try Adliya for a Persian carpet; they work wonders while dividing large areas without compromising on space. Never completely ‘ditto’ a look. It isn’t your home without your personal touch. For instance, Lam has a chess board lying around. With this décor choice, you can pull off framing frames as a real thing!

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THE One

Roche Bobois

Versace Home Zara Home

www.womanthismonth.com

Zara Home

THE One

Versace Home

The Old Country Tory Burch did not want a typical modern glass house when she moved to her Southampton manor. She wanted some place that looked lived in, actualising the concept of ‘some place like home’. Although, at first sight, it looks like way too much is going on, each space in this house offers one factor consistently — comfort. You feel at home.

Burch’s signature preppy-boho style is loudest in her living room. Think nature when shopping for this look. If it’s got botanical or animal prints, it’s perfect. What we love most about it is the vintage floral tins that have been recycled into vases.

Do you have souvenirs and collectibles stashed away with no ‘right place’ for it? Well if you’re looking to adopt ‘hippiedom’ in respect to your interiors, it’s ideal to have your travel buys lying around. Remember, there’s no such thing as ‘too much’.

Roche Bobois Versace Crate & Barrel www.womanthismonth.com

June 2013 |

53

Celebrity Lifestyle

A-List Escapes

By Elma Bartholomew

Now that you know how to travel like a star, why not do your summer shopping in a starstudded location? Who knows, you might even get to spot celebs catching up on some R&R! Start packing; we’re sending you to three of the most glamorous hideouts.

The Kingdom of Bhutan The Low-down: In the landlocked state of Bhutan, a smile on your face is more valuable than a coin in your pocket. And this isn’t just a saying; it is a commitment of one of their kings to the concept of Gross National Happiness. Sounds like a fairy tale? Well, it should with a land that calls to mind a fantasy land.

Nicknamed The Land of Thunder Dragon, The Kingdom in the Clouds and The Last ShangriLa, this country invites those in need of a reality check (which seems like the perfect idea for those who’ve let fame and success get to their head). With a majority of Buddhist population, it’s the ideal destination for those who want to connect with their inner self.

X-Factor: The reasons for visiting Bhutan are manifold. It has a rugged and mountainous landscape with snow-capped peaks and glacier-covered terrain in the north, spurs of the Himalayan peaks in the centre and heavily forested foothills and subtropical plains in the south.

Bhutan has long maintained a policy of strict isolationism, both culturally and economically and as a result its culture is one of the oldest and well-preserved ones in the world.

In fact, it has only been in the recent decades of the 20th century that foreigners have been allowed to visit the country and only in limited numbers. The extensive range of touring and trekking holidays in Bhutan have been developed to offer unlimited opportunities to enjoy the warmth of the people, the unique cultural heritage, as well as the stunning mountain vistas and untouched wildernesses.

Best For: Don’t be fooled by the largely simplistic aura of Bhutan. With a USD200 tourist fee per day, it is one of the most expensive travel destinations in the world. There are several luxury lodges that make up for the otherwise modest setting.

Amankora in Paro will enhance and nurture your journey, creating a stay that takes you to the soul of the land in country-styled luxury. Uma Paro in the same district is also frequented by stars. The Taj Tashi in Thimphu pays homage to Dzong architecture, along with world-class service and outstanding cuisine.

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www.womanthismonth.com

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

The Low-down: Water signs, this one’s for you. What began as a small fishing village, Cabo is one of the top tourist destinations. Filled with adventure and plenty of sun, it’s no wonder this city is the ultimate hotspot for vacationers all year round. This tropical hideaway is luxurious enough to spoil even the most seasoned traveller.

Capturing the essence of the Baja Peninsula, this Mexican city is a mustvisit, especially between November and February. There are three districts in Cabo: San Jose del Cabo, where you can find the old world charm of Mexico spotted with resorts; Cabo San Lucas, the entertainment hub where the famous arch rests; and The Corridor, which is the highway that connects both towns now lined with condos and golf courses that hug the stunning coastline.

X-Factor: By night, Cabo San Lucas is one of the hottest party towns in North America. The glittering nightlife and a plethora of dining options make the ‘main town’ an all-time favourite. It isn’t nicknamed Cabo San “Loco” without reason! If you’re out to party in this town, you’ll be caught saying, “I did what last night?!” very often! It’s crazy out here, so prepare to toss your inhibitions at home.

That’s not all Cabo has to offer of course. It’s bustling with water sports aficionados. You name; it they’ve got it!

Best For: Extravagant resorts like One & Only Palmilla. Expect luxury, privacy and service beyond your wildest imagination. Celebrities love this place. Good luck sneaking a photo here, the security is tight! Other A-list favourites here are Esperanza An Auberge Resort, Las Ventanas, ME by Melia Cabo and The Nowhere Bar.

Dubai

The Low-down: City vacations are no longer limited to London, New York, Paris and Milan. Hollywood has got a whiff of Middle Eastern luxury and its inmates are pouring in by the scores. With opulence in every corner, amazing beaches, shopping destinations and desert safaris all in the same city, Dubai is now topping the A-listers holiday spots.

From a trading port to global gateway in 25 years, the Middle East metropolis of Dubai sprung up out of the desert sands. Once centred on the bustling Dubai Creek, from where old dhows still sail to Iran, the city now sprawls south towards the United Arab Emirates’ capital, Abu Dhabi.

X-Factor: While oil revenues fuelled its early development, now trade and tourism power this city-state’s phenomenal growth rate. Travellers come for sun, sand, shopping and a touch of the exotic; and Dubai delivers. While it might not have the ancient sites of Cairo or Damascus, Dubai just gets on with making history as one of the fastest growing cities in the world.

Forget the world’s tallest tower and its manmade islands; what the city really knows how to create are headlines. It has managed to turn itself into a must-see location. Dubai has its virtues. So if you find yourself with 24 hours (or more) in the city, you’ll have no shortage of things to do.

Best For: Anyone who has visited Dubai before will have quoted, “It’s the perfect place for any one with disposable money.” People visit the ultramodern city for one reason — to splurge! Whether you are staying at Atlantis The Palm Hotel & Resort, Burj Al Arab or at Armani Hotel Dubai in the world’s tallest building, the way to make the most of your trip is by indulging in the luxury on offer.

www.womanthismonth.com

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Celebrity Lifestyle

The High Ground One night you see her rocking a Valentino gown; the next morning you see her in skintight white jeans; the day after that she’s caught walking bare-faced in casuals.

G

wyneth Paltrow started the digital media and e-commerce company, goop, in the autumn of 2008 to share all of life’s positives. From creating a delicious recipe to finding a perfect dress for spring, the actress began curating the best of lifestyle to help her readers save time, simplify and feel inspired.

She is determined to publish a genuine and resourceful issue each week; for many, goop. com has become their most trusted girlfriend on the web.

The first labels Over the past five years, the website has grown into an eminent lifestyle publication, dedicated to informing and positively inspiring its audience.

It gives readers exclusive access to recipes, travel guides, fashion, wellness tips, cultural notes and more. Incorporating the knowledge of expert contributors and tastemakers, along with its own editorial eye and uncompromising style,

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issues are delivered straight to your inbox every Thursday. Additionally, the publication in its entirety can be found on the site at any time, making goop.com a wealth of knowledge and an indispensable resource for all who love to ‘make’, ‘go’, ‘get’, ‘do’, ‘be’ and ‘see’.

The collection After years of seeking out the best in any particular category for the weekly issue and finding must-have items for goop readers, their passion for collaboration and design grew.

Rather than talking about the products they loved, they chose to apply the same discerning philosophy to create their own products.

Each week, goop premieres one exclusive limited edition collaboration and their edit of a favourite brand. Whether it’s a wardrobe staple, a home accessory or a beauty must, they believe these are the essentials for you, your wardrobe and your home.

What we love Let’s take a moment to appreciate its clean layout. It’s chic, it’s simple; most importantly, it’s user-friendly. For those of you who wouldn’t want to go check out the website every time you want to catch up on the star’s picks of the week, all you need to do is subscribe via email.

It only takes the amount of time you need to type out your email id.

For travel enthusiasts, download her city guide app — especially if you’re off to London, New York or Los Angeles. Taking goop’s popular journal category ‘go’ to the next level, the app is filled with all of the much-loved and under-theradar places, along with classic favourites, that they have discovered over the years.

Foodies (like us) could get addicted to the recipes section. Browse by ingredient or category to find the perfect dish for any craving or occasion, or simply scroll to get inspired (and seriously hungry). www.womanthismonth.com

Showcase

Actualise Your Dreams LEAVES

Are you nervous about planning everything that has to do with your big day as a bride?

Fret not; here’s a company that would love to take care of it all.

The Leaves Checklist

Essential tips for a perfect day: l Wedding Venues Almost any place can be considered a wedding venue, but there are many hidden things to consider when creating your own location.

Many locations offer facilities for your catering companies to prepare your food. They might even provide areas to get ready. l Wedding Cake Many bakers are more like designers.

At Leaves, they design your wedding cake any way you might choose, from classic to quirky. l Floral Decoration Finding the right wedding florist can be a time-consuming task. Leaves works with the best wedding florists in the country.

E

stablishted in 2005, the sole objective of Leaves is to provide premium products and services to its discerning clientele through innovation and originality.

The company imports, exports and retails high quality chocolates, along with a wide range of flora.

In addition, Leaves is the premier event manager in the Kingdom of Bahrain, providing clients with complete solutions for all events from weddings to conferences.

Events by Leaves are further excelled by the attention to detail from the design staff, who are more than happy to customise all our products to suit the clients’ requirements.

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The big day Are you getting married? There’s no better onestop destination to rely on for your wedding party than Leaves, which is dedicated to make your dream setting a reality.

“We help you alleviate the stress that comes with planning your special occasion. Choosing a wedding theme, location and decoration can be confusing and frustrating to say the least,” explains Fayka Bastaki, Leaves founder. “We strongly recommend you first choose a budget you are comfortable with. Next, write a wish list.

Then call or visit our office to appoint a meeting with our councillor and start planning your dream wedding and reception.” Call 17 599-055.

l Photographer and Videographer Having the right wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions a bride will make.

Remember that you will enjoy these memories for the rest of your life; make sure you hire a professional.

When hiring a videographer, ask them what type of format they will be filming your wedding video in. High definition is a great way to capture your wedding reception in a crystal clear format. l Wedding DJ Having the right entertainment will make or break your reception. Hire a professional DJ that has the right personality to interact with your guests and family. At Leaves, they double-check if they have the proper equipment and music. Your guests are not going to remember wedding flowers or the wedding cake, but they will remember if they had a great time.

www.womanthismonth.com

Social Butterfly

Firyal Al Adhamy Art Exhibition

Under the patronage of HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al-Khalifa, Culture Minister, The Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture & Research held an exhibition titled 'Darwish - An Altar of Poetry' by artist Firyal Al Adhamy. The exhibition was held at the Bu Zaboon House in Muharraq. The event was attended by HE Sameera Rajab, Minister of State for Information Affairs and art lovers Firyal Al Adhamy with guests at the event

Sahara & Reem

HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, Firyal & Asmaa Adnan, HE Sameera Rajab & HE Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa

Lesley & Lahib

Ahmed Al Zain & Firyal Al Adhamy

Harish & Rajan One of the arworks on display Mayss, Sara & Ammar

Amal & Omar

www.womanthismonth.com

Samar & Ridhab

Zainab & Mohammed

June 2013 |

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Campaign

Time for Action

By Simi Kamboj

For a desert island surrounded by the ocean, it’s remarkable how little attention we pay to the coastal environment and marine life in Bahrain. Khawla Al Muhannadi speaks of her undertaking to mobilise resources within the Kingdom.

Khawla Al Muhannadi

A

s the first female president of a mixed gender NGO, Khawla Al Muhannadi comes across as an articulate environmental evangelist who specialises in coaching youth and children.

“This initiative was launched in response to a lack of awareness towards environmental issues, especially those related to people’s behaviour, lifestyle and attitudes towards wildlife and natural resources,” says Khawla, president of Environment Friends Society (EFS). “We decided to make a difference by helping people understand the impact of their actions,” she says.

At EFS, close attention is paid to environmental education and awareness, especially among the younger generation. Her brief includes visits to schools, taking school children on environmental trips to threatened habitats and holding environmental contests in schools. She also conducts public seminars and lectures as well as campaigning to protect threatened habitats and species.

The rescue of marine animals in distress is an area close to Khawla’s heart. Earlier this 60

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year, EFS volunteers rescued a loggerhead turtle from a beach on Amwaj Islands after a local resident raised alarm.

“The animal was covered with seaweed and unable to keep afloat. After rescuing it from the sea, we took it to a safe location, where it’s being cared for. We plan to release it on another beach where it has a better chance of survival,” she says.

She rescued another turtle, this one was a hawksbill, from the beach at Seef; this animal, though, was badly injured and will need a few months to recover before it can be released into the sea.

“We’re worried and alarmed over the instances of dead dolphins, dugongs and sea turtles in recent years. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of a few minutes. If people can alert us the moment they spot a marine animal in distress, the chances of its survival are much higher,” she notes.

Having grown up in the green neighbourhood of Riffa, Khawla derives her inspiration from childhood memories of the sea, the trees and

birds and the lost natural heritage since then.

“Already, many birds that were visible in Bahrain in my childhood have vanished. We don’t want our natural world heritage to disappear entirely,” she says.

The Reem programme launched for little environmental leaders (aged between 5 and 17) aims to create awareness, where every child volunteers time to contribute something, either in the form of a painting, an essay or a poem dedicated to nature. The society also holds a bi-annual event for families, the Child and Environment Festival.

The EFS will mark World Environment Day in June with a two-day workshop for training the trainers in water conservation.

“Around 30 participants will learn how to lead a water-wise lifestyle and get trained to teach others. Participants will include teachers and civil societies working with housewives, hoteliers and environmental educators. Those wishing to participate can send their request to efs.bahrain@hotmail.com or through our Facebook page,” Khawla adds. www.womanthismonth.com

Social Butterfly

International Ladies Association Charity Breakfast

The International Ladies Association held a charity breakfast for members & guests at the Tea Club Restaurant on Amwaj Islands Rabab, Fawzia, Fatima, Naima, Goli, Nahid, Fatima & Nadia

Rabab & Dr Soniya

Mariam, Ashrat & Fawzia

Fawzia, Gillie & Wendy

Naima, Nahid, Majida, Nadia & Goli

Naheed, Huda & Zeeba

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Ameena, Mozia, Nadia & Mona

Zubaid

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Social Butterfly Ilham Astrid, & Nanda Kumar

LANGE Paris Product Launch

A reception was held to mark the launch of a new range of French Derma Products named LANGE. The event was held at Trader Vic's, Ritz-Carlton Bahrain Hotel & Spa

Dr Mehta

Angela & Dr Anwar

Dr Khalid, Astrid, Eric, Ilham & Nanda Kumar Chitra & Nanda

Dr Aaliya & Ahmed

Fatima with Tim Makintosh Smith

Tim Mackintosh-Smith Talk

The La Fontaine Center for Contemporary Art in Hoora, held a Tim Mackintosh-Smith lecture. The lecture was titled - How To Travel Well: A Masterclass On Travel Writing With Tim Mackintosh-Smith Rohit, Rasha & Nazli

Gordon & Anurag

Katrina

Anne & John Steve & Victoria

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Wellbeing

Building Stronger Bones

By Simi Kamboj

As age catches up with you, chances are you have ignored the health of your bones until a tiny trauma one day results in a painful fracture you can’t explain. Osteoporosis continues to baffle many women and take them by surprise, but our experts assure us that it’s a treatable and reversible condition.

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part of the normal ageing process, osteoporosis is, simply put, a condition where the bones may become porous and waste away. In average human beings, the bone density gradually starts wearing off from the age 30 onwards, but for some, this bone loss is more rapid. Women are more likely to develop this condition since they have lighter frames and smaller bones to begin with.

Breaking a bone due to osteoporosis is tougher to deal with compared to fractures in those who do not have the condition.

Osteoporotic bones often heal more slowly and less completely than normal bones, probably because they contain fewer bone minerals and other materials essential for healing.

Often, osteoporotic spinal fractures can have a devastating impact. They lead to chronic back pain, loss in height, deformity, immobility, increased number of bed ridden days, and even reduced pulmonary function. Their impact on women’s quality of life can be profound, resulting in a loss of self-esteem and development of a distorted body image and depression.

Two experts in Bahrain give us the lowdown on this condition and provide tips on keeping it at bay.

Preventing Osteoporosis Our expert: Dr Jamal Saleh, orthopaedic surgeon, founder Orthocare Centre “Certain individuals are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis earlier than others.

These include people who have medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lactose intolerance, cancers, multiple sclerosis, and diabetic bone disease or mal-absorption syndromes. Too much smoking, abuse of alcohol or the use of corticosteroids also puts the bones at a greater risk,” he observes.

However, from his own experience Dr Jamal knows that osteoporosis should not be confused with low bone mineral density, a condition that can arise out of Vitamin D deficiency.

“I was only 41 when I was diagnosed with osteoporosis. I’d been suffering from a malabsorption syndrome for years and had stopped consuming dairy products since then. I had been on corticosteroids, which put me in the high risk category. I started exercising and took regular doses of Vitamin D and calcium supplements in addition to the medication.

Now, my bone mineral density levels are back to normal. I’m not sure whether it was osteoporosis or just Vitamin D imbalance, which resulted in weak bones,” says Dr Saleh. www.womanthismonth.com

The most effective way to prevent osteoporosis in this high-risk group is to have optimal levels of Vitamin D levels, at around 75 ng/dl.

“More than 80 per cent of people in Bahrain are deficient in Vitamin D and without this essential nutrient, the intake of calcium is useless,” says Dr Jamal. “A campaign is now underway in Bahrain to have food such as wheat flour fortified with this vitamin to serve the interests of the larger population.”

Managing Osteoporosis Our expert: Dr Sumod Sukumaran, orthopaedic surgeon, KIMS Medical Centre Family studies show that there’s a motherdaughter link in the development of osteoporosis, so if your family members have a strong history of a thin body frame, hormonal imbalance, unexplained fractures and trauma, chances are you have inherited this condition.

Women with such a family history should opt

for early screening, including bone density tests from the age of 40 to get an early diagnosis.

Once they’ve started undergoing treatment, annual checkups and screenings are recommended to keep track of their progress.

Know your medication According to Dr Sukumaran, osteoporosis is a highly treatable condition, which can be reversed substantially through medication and changes in lifestyle.

Osteoporosis medications are primarily of two types, medicines that slow bone loss and drugs that increase the rate of bone formation. It’s the hormones that primarily assist in bone building, as they transport minerals and nutrients to the bones. Parathyroid hormones which increase the rate of bone formation form a distinct category of anabolic drugs, and are currently the only osteoporosis medicine approved by the FDA that rebuilds bone.

Treatment to boost parathyroid hormones aims at not only building bone but also lowering the risk of bone breakage.

Doctors will sometime prescribe bisphosphonates, which act directly on the bone structure to reduce the rate of bone loss.

It is mostly prescribed for post-menopausal women with low bone density or to prevent osteoporosis that is induced by corticosteroids.

Hormone replacement therapy is another treatment option for post menopausal women, depending on whether they’ve had their uterus removed; in which case, only estrogen is prescribed. However, there are side effects to the treatment and patients need to consult their physician before embarking on any longterm medication.

Bone-building exercises Women who are active and especially those June 2013 |

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Wellbeing who do weight-bearing activities at least three times a week are far more likely to keep osteoporosis at bay than ladies who lead a sedentary lifestyle. Muscle pulling on the bone builds bone, so weight-bearing exercise – that is, exercise that involves your body supporting its own weight - builds denser, stronger bones.

The more bone mass you build before the age of 25 or 30, the better off you will be during the years of gradual bone loss. Exercise can also help you maintain bone density later in life.

“A 30 minute workout six times a week is optimal. Those who have associated problems such as knee pain or arthritis can design their own regimen by opting for safe workouts such as swimming or Yoga to strengthen their bones,” says Dr Sukumaran.

The best exercises for building bones include lifting light weights, jogging, hiking, stairclimbing, step aerobics, dancing, racquet sports, and other activities that require your muscles to work against gravity. Thirty minutes of weight-bearing exercise daily benefits not only your bones, but improves heart health, muscle strength, coordination, and balance.

Those 30 minutes don’t need to be done all at once; it’s just as beneficial for you to do ten minutes at a time.

Super foods A common belief in the medical fraternity is that most degenerative diseases are caused, to an extent, by a modern diet which is a combination of too much sugar, fat, refined flour, salt, caffeine, alcohol and processed foods.

Considering that bones are living tissue, what you eat affects the health and strength of your bones. Ultimately, it all boils down to a healthy lifestyle, which begins with eating healthy,

notes Dr Sukumaran. Take good helpings of milk, tofu, cheese and dairy products, which are rich in calcium, as is shell fish, clams, sardines, soy beans, soy milk and dark leafy greens. Vitamin K is as important for your bones as calcium, and for this reason you must top up on green leafy vegetables such as broccoli, green beans and Brussels sprouts.

Fatty varieties of fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna and sardines are packed with Vitamin D. For a healthy dose of essential minerals such as magnesium and potassium, try to include more of tomatoes, okra, bananas, oranges, papaya, prunes and raisins in your diet.

Say 'yes 'to the sun, in small doses Sunlight is good for you. Twenty minutes of exposure to the early morning or evening sun every day can help your body synthesise the much needed vitamin D, also known as the sunshine vitamin. Vitamin D is primarily responsible for the absorption of calcium and phosphate by the intestines and is highly beneficial for the health of bones, says Dr Sukumaran.

Alarmingly for a country like Bahrain which is blessed with over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, the majority of the population is deficient in Vitamin D. A study performed between February 2011 and February 2012 by doctors at BDF Hospital found that out of 500 healthy

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Bahrainis tested, only 68 had optimal levels of Vitamin D in their bodies. This vitamin deficiency is found to be significantly higher in women than in men, which may well explain the early loss of bone density in females.

Fall-proof your home Small slips and falls are the main source of fractures in the elderly and they should be watchful in this regard, observes Dr Sukumaran. Try to keep the clutter off floors, have the rooms in the house brightly lit and ensure that the stairs have handrails.

“Make sure there are no slippery surfaces in the house and that the washroom is skid-proof.

Bath mats on the floor and sturdy footwear is essential. A supportive frame around the toilet bowl and a walking stick or crutches will help maintain the balance,” he says.

Seek Help Our support group: Bahrain Osteoporosis Society The Bahrain Osteoporosis Society is a major support group offering guidance and campaigning for awareness about the condition in Bahrain. The group conducts bone density tests and screenings annually and also undertakes research projects. Visit the society’s Facebook page for more details. www.womanthismonth.com

Showcase BAHRAIN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL

Managing Bruxism

Do you wake up with pain around your jaw line or suffer from severe headaches? If you don’t know the cause, there may be an underlying issue you’re missing.

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haracterised by the grinding of the teeth and typically includes the clenching of the jaw, Bruxism is one of the most common sleep disorders. In most cases the condition is mild enough not to be a health problem; but when it regularly occurs during sleep, it can be cause for alert. “Most people are not aware that they are suffering from the illness and studies even show that only an estimated five per cent go on to develop symptoms that are noticeable,” says Bahrain Specialist Hospital’s (BSH) general dentist Dr Ghada Al Anni. Some of the symptoms include anxiety, stress, tension, earache, eating disorders, migraines, loose teeth, neck pain and insomnia. Usually it’s a sleeping partner that notices the behaviour first. Since the condition is not the only cause of toothaches, it is hard to diagnose with visual evidence. Testing methods used at BSH include electromyography measurements and biofeedback headbands. Curing the cause can permanently rid a patient of the symptoms; two of the most common treatments are the use of dental guards and splints.

“These can reduce tooth abrasion where guards protect the teeth and can reduce muscle strain by allowing the upper and lower jaw to move easily with respect to each other,” adds the doctor. Botox has also proven to lessen Bruxism’s effects. An extremely diluted serum is injected to weaken or partially paralyse muscles to prevent clinching and chewing. Call 17 812-000.

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AMERICAN MISSION HOSPITAL

Summer Safety

Bahrain’s summer can take a toll on the healthiest adult; imagine what it can do to a new born baby.

Dr Mohammad Hourani www.womanthismonth.com

Dr Ghada Al Anni

xposure to prolonged amounts of heat and humidity, without relief or adequate fluid, can cause various types of heat-related illnesses. One of the most common conditions faced at American Mission Hospital (AMH) during summer is heat cramps, the mildest form of heat injury which results in painful muscle spasms.

Exhaustion, on the other hand, is a more severe condition that results from a loss of water and salt in the body. It occurs as a result of excessive sweating due to a combination of an inadequate fluid intake and salt replacement. “If left untreated, this can lead to heat stroke, which occurs when the body’s self-regulating system is overwhelmed by high temperatures. It is a lifethreatening emergency and requires immediate medical attention,” says Dr Mohammad Hourani, a paediatric specialist at AMH The hospital’s advanced facilities are fully equipped to deal with all matters of general paediatrics and neonatology. Another common problem during summer is sunburn, which can be alleviated by using ibuprofen to ease the pain, if the child is older than six months.

Applying steroid cream for two days on the affected areas is another effective form of relief.

“Where sunburns are fairly severe, take a cool bath for ten minutes; but do not use soap to wash your body,” advises Dr Mohammad.

If the sunburn results in blisters, these should be left alone to avoid infection. Should the pain become unbearable, then you should consult a doctor. Call 17 248110/121.

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Parenting

Professional Help

and Support

By Dr Clare Beckett-McInroy

There are times, as a parent, that you need to seek professional help and guidance to ensure you are not only making the right decisions but so that whatever health, social, emotional or other concerns you have about your child are addressed appropriately.

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ou may feel pressured, isolated or confused about what to do next. You may listen to family and friend’s advice or you may search for professional advice. Bahrain has a vast amount of people advertising their services.

Great! You have choice from a number of fields to seek help. However, how can you ensure that the ‘professional’ help you receive is just that? Is their marketing literature accurate? This article will help guide you in the right direction.

What professional do you need?

Initially, once you clarify the problem you and/ or your child is experiencing, you then start searching for answers and solutions. At this stage be aware of any ‘internet diagnosis’ because, although there are many sites that are up-to-date with professional advice, there are also so-called ‘experts’ writing their opinions as well, quite often unaware that they are not qualified or experienced to an appropriate level to do so.

Once you have an idea of the type of help you need (which may lead you to more than one initial choice), it’s important to ask the right questions before you book an appointment. Ask such things as what do they do, how do they do it, where, when, with whom, do they work with a team of professionals or in isolation, can you see references about their work?

Getting to the bottom of qualifications and experience It’s not easy to work out the benchmark for qualifications in fields that you are not familiar with so do ask a few professionals about what qualifications they have so that you can see what the ‘standard’ is like.

Local and international standards can be found on-line and medical professionals as well as teachers can also advise about the qualifications required by educational psychologists, psychometrists, counsellors, tutors, physiotherapists and the like.

Getting the right help is especially important and practitioners need to have experience working with children. In Australia, for example, psychologists must be registered with the Psychologists Registration Board to practice.

Other fields, such as coaching, require qualifications and a set number of supervised hours including reflection on practice.

Only then coaches can work towards being certified professionals which allows for registration with international professional bodies. This allows a person to be certified and appropriate logos from professional bodies can subsequently be used.

You may also wish to check that professionals are legally allowed to practice; i.e. do they www.womanthismonth.com

have a company registration as an individual, or are they working for a company on the island or overseas which means they can practice in Bahrain?

It is also important to examine your ‘gut reaction’ as a parent when you engage in initial conversation because knowledge and experience is important but the right attitude is essential, too.

Ask yourself would you or your child be happy working with this person? Are they following a professional code of ethics from the onset with regards to clarifying their views on confidentiality?

There are a growing number of alternative therapies that parents are turning to for themselves and their children. How can you ensure what you are getting is the best services and advice?

treating a patient will need to have some sort of certificate or diploma and have basic knowledge and understandings of energy and the body. This will look after the patient and the therapist.”

As Julie explains “I am often horrified about things I hear and see as well as the poor standards of life coaching and counselling of holistic and complementary therapies in the Middle East as well as other countries I teach.

“This is because there are no enforced governing bodies or required standards and so anyone can set themselves up in a so called ‘healing’ business or practice; no one is accountable. In such cases like these, where laws are not present or enforced, it’s the practitioner’s responsibility to register internationally and to keep themselves up-to-date.”

Holistic therapies Julie Lomas who owns Conscious Connections, based in Bahrain, explains that “there are many on-line courses and face-to-face schools based in the UK that teach individual holistic therapies. To become a practitioner with a professional diploma usually takes a minimum of two years.”

In you practice in the UK, this benchmark is needed for insurance and liability purposes, health and safety awareness, ethical awareness and abiding by laws such as the Data Protection Act. The same would apply in many European Countries and the USA, Julie goes on to say that “standardisation of all complementary therapies and practices will eventually become the norm over the next couple of decades. This will mean that anyone June 2013 |

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Parenting

To be a really good and responsible life coach or holistic practitioner takes years of training.

Often people fail to realise that holistic therapies deal with people’s health and mind, body and spirit.

“People’s lives are not for playing with,” adds Julie. “When I discuss these things or speak out about them I have people say to me ‘I don’t believe in training; either you have the gift or not, I use my intuition and that’s all that is needed, it does no harm’.

“However, this is not true in any way. In the old days, before today’s modern medicine, those who did all the healing would have been apprentices for many years, working alongside an experienced healer. They would learn the trade, the pitfalls and good things, and understand how the body works as well as the minimum. This would be followed by lessons about herbs, crystals and antidotes; it would be a gradual process.”

Not surprisingly, Julie believes that holistic therapists and practitioners — when taught properly — learn very quickly that they are just there to help facilitate the healing process.

“There is no place for the ego. A properly trained life coach would know and do the same. In their case the moment their ego steps in or they decide they know what the client needs, over the clients inner knowing or ‘agenda’, they are no longer doing their job correctly; they are probably mentoring or even just telling!”

Julie goes on to say that “...if you are going to visit a holistic therapist, check their credentials.

You would not visit a medical doctor who was not fully trained and passed all the necessary qualifications. Why would you want to be healed/treated/coached by someone who has no professional qualifications?

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“It is these untrained and often egotistic therapists/coaches that give the industry a bad name. In the Middle East I am often asked if I can give people a qualification without them doing all the learning, both practical and theory. I get very upset with this because people think it is acceptable practice to cheat at anything and not learn anything fully, or the parts they don’t want to know or find difficult.

“When I say no, they simply get cross or no longer want to learn. It’s like buying a degree, there needs to be learning” Reiki “Reiki these days is everywhere and most people have heard of it,” Julie comments.

“When this amazing therapy is taught properly, its healing power is simply amazing — both physically and emotionally. However, it is about healing the self before others; properly trained reiki therapists are taught this and understand it.

“There are principals that a reiki practitioner lives by and they can bring that peace to all. It is so misused and wrongly taught, with people being attuned over the Internet with so many myths and tales around it, that it too has become the source of very bad press and weirdness.”

Julie believes that holistic therapies, often know as new age, have a bad reputation because of some of the people associated with it and their lack of responsibility and yet complementary and alternative therapies are extremely powerful and when used alongside modern medicine and ways, anything wonderful can happen and does. Julie says she has seen this many times.

Top Tips Take note of these tips to maximise the benefit to you: l You must like the holistic therapist or life coach you are working with. They are there to help you help yourself. l Check credentials to see if they are registered with an affiliated body or recognised institution/school/college. There are professional qualifications in all therapies that provide access to additional help, information and support for practitioners. l Check how long they have been practicing, who they were trained by. If you feel uncomfortable or you feel something is not right, leave! l Ask for references and the best ones usually come by word of mouth. Good therapists will be busy and their reputation will follow them. l A responsible and professionally trained holistic therapist will never diagnose an illness, or tell you to stop taking any medication you maybe on. They will always work with you alongside medical doctors and they will always recommend you seek medical or other help if they feel you need it.

For further information about Julie, visit www.consciousconnections.com. www.womanthismonth.com

Column

A Fresh Start

Human milk is an intricate dynamic and biological fluid that evolves as your baby grows to meet their needs. It contains the precise quantities of nutrients, in the right proportions for your infant.

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study of 2,195 children up to six years concluded that less breastfeeding leads to the increase of asthma and atopy at a young age. The American Academy of Paediatrics reviewed the evidence in respect to the development of atopic dermatitis, asthma and food allergies in early life. They concluded that it is related to the diet of babies and mothers during pregnancy and the lactating period.

For infants at a high risk of developing atopic diseases, there is proof that only breastfeeding for at least four months, compared to feeding intact cow milk protein formula, cuts the collective incidence of dermatitis and allergy in the first two years. It has been proved that exclusive breastfeeding for at least three months protects a child against wheezing as well.

Nursing has been associated with improved neurodevelopment in children. A study in Spain established that a high percentage of feeding during the first 14 months is associated directly with a child’s mental development. Maternal education, social class, and IQ only partly explained this association. Additionally, the level of LCPUFA (essential fatty acids) seems to play a beneficial role in mental growth.

Breastfeeding has been found to generally reduce the risk of obesity. A number of studies concluded that every month of breastfeeding is found to be associated with a four per cent decrease in risk.

A study carried out in Greece found that infants who were exclusively breastfed for six months presented fewer infectious episodes than their partially breastfed or non-breastfed peers. Prolonged exclusive breastfeeding showed there were fewer admissions at hospitals for infection in the first year.

The mother’s health Researchers found that exclusive or mostly breastfeeding groups had lower prevalence of diabetes or pre-diabetes. Authors argue that lactation may have favourable effects on glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity that may reduce diabetes risk after gestational diabetes in pregnancy.

Women who had never breastfed were more likely to develop hypertension than those who

exclusively breastfed their first child for more than six months.

The World Cancer Research Fund published the most comprehensive report on the link between cancer and diet, as well as physical activity and weight. One of the 10 recommendations is that women should aim to breastfeed their baby exclusively for six months, and then continue with complementary breastfeeding after that.

There is convincing evidence that breastfeeding protects women against preand post-menopausal breast cancer. There is limited evidence that it safeguards them from ovarian cancer. Both short- and long-term breastfeeding reduce the risk of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and acute myeloblastic leukaemia (AML).

Understanding Colostrum

Colostrum is a yellow, sticky fluid which is secreted during the first three to five days postpartum. It contains over 60 components, 30 of which are exclusive to human milk. It offers the immunities that were available to your baby via the placenta.

Colostrum is high in protein, in addition to fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K, and minerals. Additionally, it contains high amounts of sodium, potassium, chloride and cholesterol thought to encourage optimal development of your baby’s heart, brain and central nervous system.

The yellow colour is due to B-carotene, one of the many antioxidants present. Its natural laxative benefit encourages the passage of meconium, which lessens the risk of jaundice in your baby.

This fluid is rich in immunoglobulins, which protect your infant from viruses and infections. It continues to be secreted in breast milk for up to two weeks postpartum.

For feedback, comments or questions contact Dr Jinan Darwish via email at: editor@womanthismonth.com www.womanthismonth.com

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Showcase

On a Road Trip ALMOAYYED MOTORS

You can sense immediately from the design of a great car what you’re about to experience at the wheel. Find your new ride at a good price this summer.

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lmoayyed Motors, the authorised dealer of Ford in Bahrain, has launched its summer campaign that will run until June 15.

The promotion is focused on three of Ford’s most popular and innovative cars: the 2013 models of Edge, Escape and Taurus, offering customers the chance to drive away in a new Ford for a highly competitive price.

“Ford has built its brand reputation around a platform of technology and innovation, including features such as the voice-activated SYNC and MyFord Touch systems. This summer, we want to be able to give customers the chance to experience this for themselves, by offering great deals on our range of SUVs and sedans,” says Sandeep Mathur, general manager at Almoayyed Motors.

A look inside The 2013 Ford Edge offers unique style, a V6, 3.5-litre engine and 286 hp. With SYNC and 72

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MyFord Touch, the Edge also provides the driver with technology at their fingertips, from only BD10,795.

The crossover is available in four daring models: SE, SEL, Limited and Sport. From the bold front grille through the fluid shapes and smooth lines that run the length of its body, it looks like nothing else on the road. With a sleek roof, an aerodynamic shape and a commanding profile, Edge is ready for action.

Alternatively, the 2013 Escape comes with a powerful L4, 2.4-litre engine and 168 hp.

Starting from only BD8,600, this SUV also utilises the SYNC and MyFord Touch technologies in addition to keyless and pushbutton start advancements.

The SUV has an eco-friendly side. For example, there are two available EcoBoost engines that are designed to be efficient. The seat cushion and head restraint foam is derived from soybeans, while the carpet is

produced using a blend of post-industrial fibres and post-consumer fibres derived from recycled plastic bottles.

The shape of the Escape and the use of the active grille shutters help make the vehicle more aerodynamic for enhanced fuel economy.

The 2013 Taurus, Ford’s fierce sedan, comes with a V6, 263 hp engine a six-speed SelectShift automatic gearbox plus MyFord Touch. With a starting price of BD9,950 and a newly accentuated hood design, the Taurus is the ultimate powerful and innovative sedan.

With chiselled good looks from every angle, the new Taurus appears more aggressive and assertive than ever.

Sharp, clean lines accentuate the new hood design, drawing your eye to the bold new grille.

To book your test drive, visit Almoayyed Motors in Sitra. Call 17 737-373. www.womanthismonth.com

Keep in Touch VIVA

The 21st century woman is continuously on the go and in demand. Here is how VIVA helps you stay connected.

Samsung Galaxy S4

VIVA My-fi

iPad

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eing at the forefront of innovation by introducing the latest devices first in the Kingdom, VIVA keeps their customers fully equipped to take on the high-tech world of today. Offering the fastest broadband on the island, you can surf the net, download your favorite music and watch movies enjoying unmatched speed and seamless connectivity making your life more enjoyable.

Women on-the-go are spoilt for choice when it comes to practical ways to stay online. Dongles provide wireless connection via tablets and laptops, while the VIVA My-Fi offers the possibility to have various devices connected to one hot spot providing remote connection. You can download a work presentation in your smartphone, talk via skype with your family and friends and watch your favorite TV series in your tablet, while on the go and with your devices easily connected to your My-Fi. If you are looking to give your broadband speed a good boost, the Repeater is light, portable and easy to connect to enhance your www.womanthismonth.com

Broadband Router broadband experience at home.

For the tech savvy woman who always likes to be updated with the latest gadgets, the options are endless. On offer are a host of Samsung devices including the latest S4, Galaxy Note 2 and Galaxy S3. Loyal Nokia fans can enjoy the Lumina Series that features a Windows 8 OS platform. With this or any other devices running on Windows 8 OS, you can download the VIVA Windows 8 app and be able to view VIVA’s products and services. The app works wonders for the woman with a full schedule; you can pay your bills, view the latest promotions, find suitable packages based on your usage and many other options by accessing the app anytime and from anywhere.

Customers can also choose between the latest iPhone, iPads, Blackberries and a number of other tablets. Don’t miss the best value for your money with the fastest speed and high data threshold, all available with flexible price plans. Call 124.

Dongles

Routers June 2013 |

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Showcase YAQUBY STORES

Mopping Made Easy Want to replace your broom, mop and bucket with something more convenient? This appliance will have you brushing off dirt like never before.

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ith the new innovative gadget from Bissell, spring cleaning has never been this easy — or fun. If you thought the tedious task of household chores was difficult, the Steam and Sweep Hard Floor Cleaner will change your life.

The gadget allows you to sweep up debris and mop surfaces using the power of steam. The result? Clean floors in just one swipe.

With a two-year warranty from Yaquby Stores, the cleaner boats a rotating sweeper brush that picks up dirt and dust and is 100 per cent chemical free. What’s more is that you are not only left with a clean four but a sanitised one too!

How is all this possible you ask? The head of the Steam and Sweep can brush and mop at the same time — so you can get all this done in half the usual time. The rotating soft bristle sweeper brush sweeps dirt and debris into the cleaner’s bin.

When you press the steam on demand trigger, the mop releases powerful hot air that will loosen grime while the washable micro-fibre mop pad wipes it away. This entire process can be done simultaneously, so you only have to go over your floors once.

The device can be used on sealed hard floor surfaces like vinyl, linoleum and tile.

Call 17 582-250.

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www.womanthismonth.com

Baked Goodness LULU HYPERMARKET

From muffins for breakfast, bread for lunch and biscuits for afternoon teas, baked items are a staple in Bahrain’s dining culture.

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ulu Hypermarket — the largest retail chain in the region and in the Kingdom — boasts a bakery that will leave you begging for more.

Lulu uses the best quality ingredients to offer everything from French bread, quiches, pizzas all the way to cakes, croissants and tarts.

Having gained a reputation for their renowned catering services, the bakery takes all kinds of special requests, like designed birthday cakes and plates of delicious savouries for any occasion. The expert team of chefs use only French based products and ingredients unique to the hypermarket in all of their products.

Health conscious shoppers can also enjoy a host of diabetic friendly baked goods.

The newest branch, located in Hidd and is spread over four floors, proved to be a milestone for the international retail chain. It brings variety, quality and Lulu’s signature excellence in customer service to the Muharraq Governorate.

The store’s fashion section is stacked with the latest high-street trends across apparel, accessories and footwear for all age groups and the whole family.

There is a colourful school supplies section, a www.womanthismonth.com

department for home accessories, home fabrics, décor and furniture. The electronics section showcases everything from state-ofthe-art-home theatre systems to laptops and mobile phones.

Other grocery shopping items range from only the freshest fruits and vegetables from around the world, the best cuts of meat and a wide range of local and imported fish is offered. In addition, Lulu also serve a niche market with exotic cheeses. With a dedicated team of professionals responsible for maintaining the

highest standards throughout the stores, the hypermarket boasts best practices with regard to hygiene, food safety, waste disposal and quality control.

The popular hot food section shelves stock a wide range of popular ready-to-eat foods including pizzas and pastas, fried snacks, sandwiches, biryani, as well as kebabs and grills. Delicious Arabic, Indian and Continental cuisine offers shoppers the most tasty and healthy delights to complement their shopping experience. Call 17 553-555.

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Party Food

Food

By James Claire

Not all of us love to cook, but we sure all do enjoy to party. And, a party with great food is one to be truly enjoyed and remembered.

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une is one of those months with nothing really to celebrate within its calendar of days, so we must find our own reason for enjoyment.

‘Down Under’ they have for many years preferred to enjoy a mid year ‘Festive Bash’ in June, considering that it is far cooler weather and more climatically welcoming for such treats as hot turkey, steamed festive pudding and the heavy treats of the usual season. Christmas and

all its tidings in Europe and England are one thing, as it is usually snowbound or at least freezing during December. But for the poor folks of the Antipodes isles, it’s usually weather from which to get heat stroke, and not a time to languish in the kitchen for hours over steaming pans and stoves.

We may not celebrate anything in particular this month in this region, but we should find our own reason to party for a mid-year celebration

for ourselves. Half-way through 2013 is a celebration in itself. Considering that our climate here is warm all-year round, party food should be simplistic, quick and easy, as well as appropriate to prepare and, of course, ultimately delicious.

This month I give to you my June party treats, from which any party would be a sure fire winner no matter the reason for celebrating or the month you do it in.

l For the cupcakes, cream the butter and sugar together in the bowl of an electric mixer, until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, and then the sifted flour. l As this mixes through, trickle the milk and vanilla and seeds of the scraped vanilla pod down the side of the bowl. Mix until all are well combined. Fold through the chopped mint. l Spoon the mixture into greased and paper- lined cupcake trays and bake at 185 degrees for 20-23 minutes. l When cooked, remove from pan and cool

individually on cooling wire. l To make the icing, place the softened butter and icing sugar into the bowl of an electric mixer and combine until the butter is well incorporated. l Add the milk and vanilla and seeds of the vanilla pod. Increase the speed of the mixer and beat until icing is white and light in texture. l Fold through the chopped mint before spreading the finished icing on the cooled cupcakes and serve.

Mint and Vanilla Cupcakes

Ingredients, cupcakes: 210g unsalted butter 400g caster sugar 4 large eggs 375g self-raising flour 250mls milk 1 tspn vanilla essence ½ vanilla pod, scraped 2 tspn fresh mint chopped

Ingredients, icing: 210g soft unsalted butter 900g icing sugar 125ml milk 1 tspn vanilla essence ½ vanilla pod, scraped 1 tspn fresh mint chopped finely

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Savoury Basil and Coriander Muffins Ingredients: 400g plain (all-purpose) flour 20g sugar 6g baking powder 3g baking soda 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil leaves, crumbled 40g fresh coriander, finely chopped 80g parmesan cheese, finely grated 310g laban 60g unsalted butter, melted 1 large egg

Chicken and Vegetable Vietnamese Rolls

Ingredients: 1 packet rice paper wrappers for spring rolls 60ml cooking oil 2 chicken breasts, boiled whole in salted water and then sliced 1 clove garlic, crushed and chopped finely 1 white onion, diced finely 1 carrot, grated finely 1⁄4 fresh purple cabbage, washed and shredded finely 1⁄2 yellow capsicum cleaned, sliced finely 2 tbsps chopped spring onions 1⁄2 lettuce, washed and shredded finely Salt and pepper Fresh coriander Fresh mint 1 tbsp chopped chives 100 ml sweet chilli sauce

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Heat the oven to 185 degrees Celsius.

Using a 12-cup muffin pan, lightly spray with grease/oil and then line with paper muffin cases. l In a large bowl, combine the sifted flour, baking powder, baking soda, with the sugar, the basil, coriander and cheese. l Toss everything together with your hands to ensure even distribution.

l Add together the laban, the melted butter and lightly whisked egg. l Add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring just until everything is mixed. l Deposit the mixture into the prepared muffin cups evenly. Bake at 185 degrees for 20-25 min. l Serve these warm for a snack or a light meal, with sour cream and chutney.

l Chop the boiled chicken breast and season lightly with salt and pepper. l Heat a saucepan with oil and sauté the chopped garlic and diced onions. Add the chicken and quickly stir fry. l Add the carrots and cabbage, capsicum and spring onions. Season the mix to taste with additional salt and pepper and toss over the heat. Remove to cool.

which has been covered with plastic wrap to protect the food preparation surface. l Sprinkle some of the chopped, fresh lettuce on top of the wrapper, followed by a tablespoon of the cooked chicken filling. l Add some picked mint and coriander leaves and a sprinkling of chopped chives. l Sprinkle a little of the sweet chilli sauce over the filling components last. l Leave about four centimetres uncovered on each side. Fold uncovered sides inward and then tightly roll the wrapper up. l Repeat this for the remaining wrappers and mixture.

l l

To roll spring rolls l Fill a large bowl with ice cold water. Unwrap the wrappers and dip them one at a time into the ice water to soften. l Lay the wrappers flat on the work bench

June 2013 |

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Horoscopes

Gazing Star

Find out what June has in store for you…

Raphael

Gemini May 22 - June 21

Scorpio October 24 - November 22

You are about to enter a personal lottery as your private affairs will be made public this month, leading you to assess whether your partner really has your best interests at heart. Not that you are blameless of course.

Your feet have been itching to move and some time away this month should be considered, which all points towards you looking to end a relationship.

Sagittarius November 23 - December 21

Balance is important in all aspects of life, but none more so than when organising your finances. The central part of your problem appears to be close to any major property purchase and your subsequent desire to furnish it, without taking the cost element too seriously in mind. You should give some thought to doing things one step at a time.

June sees you acting rather than threatening to act as you set Capricorn December 22 - January 20 Time spent in reflection will allow you to see just how the wheels of change into motion where a dream or idea is much things around you have changed. However, your concerned. Your sign is often in two minds when it comes to current state of mind should not be particularly gloomy as there is much to look forward to, especially if you are most things; you cannot help it this is just your nature. As the planning a move to a new property. Something could first half of the year closes, reflection finally acts as the appear out of nowhere and answer all your prayers! catalyst to inspire action. Get that long-talked about project off the drawing board and give it some legs!!

Aquarius January 21 - February 19 Cancer June 22 - July 23

June will prove to be a very good month for many of you and there is every indication that a trip overseas will leave you with some memorable moments to ponder over. You could find yourself encountering romance in a very unlikely setting.

Moreover, some highly charged emotions might be set free in what promises to be a most enlightening period of your year.

Leo July 24 - August 23

Your continual defence of a current housemate has brought about conflicts at home which need to be sorted out once and for all! It seems that as the decision-maker, you have been undermined without even realising it and now is the time for you to stand firm. Don’t be fooled by someone’s meek smile or fluttering eyes.

Virgo August 24 - September 23

There is a new concern brewing on the horizon and you will have to have your wits about you to deal with it. The problem lies with a financial decision you took back in January that now returns to haunt you. You appear to have invested heavily in something that had all the signs of success, but which now may sink a lot of your profits very quickly.

Libra September 24 - October 23

Your thoughts have been drifting recently and you might be going through a feeling of isolation because a loved one has been neglecting you. The truth is that you are in need of a change of scenery and the best solution to your current problems might be to get away for a little while. Visit a friend or relative.

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Someone who likes to stir up trouble has reluctantly set their eyes upon you this month. You need to prepare for some fairly disruptive weeks ahead as they set about blowing rumours. It would seem you have been spending a great deal of time with someone of the opposite sex on a professional basis; this has caused gossip amongst those closest to you.

Pisces February 20 - March 20

A new partnership could be on the horizon, but it may not be the kind you were expecting and may serve more as a bridge to other things rather than develop into any kind of long-term relationship. Still, the offer of companionship could be exactly what you need at the moment. You would be foolish to turn away the company of others.

Aries March 21 - April 20

Your pioneering spirit comes to the fore as a major project is placed in your hands to develop. This is your opportunity to elevate your status in the eyes of those with influence so be sure not to lose focus. There will be others who might seek to ‘drop a spanner in the works’ and jealousies will abound. So, give it your very best shot.

Taurus April 21 - May 21

Nothing in life is more potent than true love. The pain of separation from those we love most of all can be quite possibly the most difficult thing to endure. However, this time apart is going to allow you to assess whether the person you are seeing is someone you want to make a commitment with.

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June 2013 |

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WoMentality

Staying Positive!

By Hard-headed Woman

I returned to ‘big corporation’ USA recently; I had once before as well. Short time, long story; let’s just say I have seen the light and won’t be going there again. Not in this life time anyway!

C

olleagues shared the same sentiment when I recounted my recent ‘adventure’, with one close friend stating how they were tired of the pretence of remaining permanently positive! Personally, I’d rather just be me than to be positive all the time.

Being positive is one thing; but, like most things, Newton’s law of physics stands firm — what goes up must come down. Anything positive must go negative otherwise the world would never work; our atoms and particles would fall apart if rules were not followed.

I found it funny that those within the corporate wheel were all dying to be viewed as positive, all the time! I can think of a few reasons not to be; pregnancy and HIV, two positives I don’t really wish to achieve.

Back in the 90s I moved continents, moving half a planet from home and working for ‘big corporation’ USA. The first interview I went for, 80

| June 2013

they gave me seven pages of something called a psychological examination for ‘compliance with corporate standards’. A psych test, it appeared to me, to see if I was of the mental brain trust they wanted of corporate employees.

The test amused me with stupid questions which were full of what ifs and what would you do scenarios? If you were a brick in a wall of bricks which brick would you be?

I’m a writer not a brick layer? If I where a brick, I’d be the one lobbed at the wall to break it down. Proof, to me, of my anarchist tendencies and not the corporate ‘take one for the team’ mentality the potential employer would have preferred!

In tests where every participant gives a different answer I have no idea how they could ever score such an examination.

The corporate head of human resources

stated that I was indeed correct, but that each person that wanted my position would answer similarly — a ‘corporate sheep’, so to speak.

Apparently, potential managers would answer in conformity of the corporation, not with the arrogance of the individual.

So, I answered their spaced-out questions true to my life’s work, with absolute blunt honesty, as arrogant an individual as I could be and, somehow, I still got the job. What makes me laugh, though, is that those who conducted the tests deceived the company and bankrupted it the following year.

Three hundred employees and thousands of shareholders lied to by those who dared test us, for our corporate conformity! We should have been psych testing our employers, not the other way around.

Now, years later, I tried again to return to ‘big corporation USA’ with a positive attitude. I told myself it would be different this time.

It was not. In many ways it was worse; I was positive and yet ‘big corporation’ brought me down again. And there you have it, and this month’s point.

With all the dishonesty in the world, the corporate shenanigans and the financial ripoffs, why do we stand by and allow others to judge us?

It’s just a job for cash to send home after all, a means to an end. Our employers are so worried about trusting us that we forget to ask if we can actually trust them!

We try so hard to think that it is us who need to feel positive and, yet, there comes a time when you have to just see the world for what it is — a corrupt, ‘dog eat dog’ fight to the finish.

Seven billion of us are fighting to survive; for every positive there has to be a negative, and so the war rages on.

Being permanently positive is a lie unto ourselves; being true to ourselves and seeing the world for the way that it is, rather than the eyes of sceptics, has to be a better way to live a life.

So, I’ve concluded that being positive and being happy is not one and the same thing. I am sceptical, I am negative about a few things and I have doubts. But within myself, I am the happiest woman alive, for I depend upon no one for my daily dose of reality. I believe what I see with my own eyes and I draw my own conclusions. These may not be the mainstream norms and I know that ‘big corporation’ USA is not for me. I am, though, content and happy in my world.

In the words of Oscar Wilde, “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.”

And, the next time I hear someone tell me that they are positive, I’ll just tell them how sorry I am. None of us, after all, really want to catch what they have! www.womanthismonth.com