YOUR GUIDE TO HOLISTIC AND HEALTHY LIVING IN THE UAE
MIDDLE EAST
WINanic
cancer & holistic healing ISSUE 08 | SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2014
ISSUE 08 • SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2014
B’atude org Foam luxury Soothing ner! Cleanser + To See page 48
Gerson Therapy is an tough vegan regime featuring daily enemas and juicing. For some though, it’s preferable to chemotherapy and surgery
cancer & holistic healing Gerson Therapy is an tough vegan regime featuring daily enemas and juicing. For some though, it’s preferable to chemotherapy and surgery
Yoga for back pain How yoga makes back pain better... and worse
Meditation as medication The healing power of meditation
Holotropic Breathwork
Breathing into altered consciousness
Cranio-sacral Therapy Healing via the nervous system
ELECTRIC Y e, Cadillac… UR LUlex Po , y, BMW rsch Bent ing green yep, they’re all go
Superfoods
How to get maximum benefits
Making scents
The power of aromatherapy
BALCONY GARDENS UAE How to grow your own at ho me
AED15
ALTERNATIVE UAE DIRECTORY | BALI AND TAIWAN RETREATS | NEANDERTHAL MAN GOES NEW AGE Cover final.indd 1 page 4-5 contents_TAM.indd 1
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contents 14
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! win G R ANIC
6 & 9 What’s happening?
Recent news and upcoming events
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B’ATUDE O FOAM SOOTHING ONER, CLEANSER +T See page 48
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AWAKENED MIND
10 Meditation as medication
From eating disorders to sexual performance, the health benefits of meditation are physical as well as mental.
AWAKENED HEART
14 Holotropic Breathing
A technique for achieving healing states of consciousness, read this first-hand account of a Holotropic Breathwork session.
AWAKENED BODY
18 Yoga for back pain
How yoga can heal back pain… and when it makes things worse.
22 Cancer and holistic healing
The Gerson Therapy is a strict, all natural alternative approach to healing cancer and other chronic degenerative diseases. Can it replace chemotherapy?
AWAKENED MOTORING
26 Cranio-sacral therapy
40 Luxury green cars
28 The adventure of Superfoods
AWAKENED LIFE & LEISURE
A gentle healing modality that balances the central nervous system to deal with mental and physical conditions as diverse as headaches, depression and sports injuries. Superfoods are here to save your life; here’s a tip on how to get the most out of them.
AWAKENED BEAUTY
30 Making scents: The Aromatherapy Effect
The aroma of essential oils has a powerful effect on our psychological and physiological wellbeing.
34 Spa Review: Colour Harmonising Holistic
Experience
Tried and tested: Colour and aromatherapy combine to make this massage and facial combo at Spadunya Club one of the most feelgood treatments you’ll ever have.
AWAKENED HOME
36 Grow your own balcony garden
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t grow your own herbs, vegetables and flowers.
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Surprisingly, high-end cars like the Porsche 918 Spyder and the BMW i8 are driving greener motoring technology.
Bali healing
A visit to some of Bali’s best healing and wellness retreats.
Taiwan’s healing waters
Taiwan’s hot medicinal springs and ecological leisure farms.
48 Retail Therapy
Vegan protein mix to a new organic luxury skincare range.
50 Healing vouchers
Bag a healing bargain. Vouchers for UAE healers and practitioners.
51 UAE Holistic Listings
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The A to Z of local holistic services, products, healers, centres…
Neanderthal man goes new age
Diary of how life is changing for a 40-something caveman since he met the Tree Hugger. This issue, it’s a cowspiracy. www.awakeningsme.com
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editor’s letter
Your guide to holistic and healthy living in the UAE Published by
Managing Director TAMARA PITELEN tamara@awakeningsme.com Mob: +971 (0)50 843 3262 Art Director JUN RODRIGUEZ jun@awakeningsme.com Tel: +971 (0)56 754 0837 Subscriptions Manager & Motoring Editor ADRIAN MAUL adrian@awakeningsme.com Mob: +971 (0)56 676 9483 Advertising RIZZA INFANTE rizza@awakeningsme.com Mob: +971 (0) 55 854 6498 Contributors AMBER GARDNER ALEXANDRA SALKOVA MCKENZIE ASPEN AMAN HARSHA VARYANI JAN D’SA KAYA PETERS EDO SHONIN, WILLIAM VAN GORDON & MARK GRIFFITHS NEHA JAMANI Registered at Fujairah Media Freezone Head Office, P.O. Box 4422 Fujairah, U.A.E. Tel: +971 (0)50 8433 262 Printed by UPP PRINTING & PUBLISHING Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. © 2014 Awakenings Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any form of advertising without the prior permission in writing from the Editor. Images from www.shutterstock.com
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Welcome! Between this issue and the last one, I spent six weeks in India to do my 200 hour Yoga Teacher Training and get the bit of paper that says I’m certified to teach yoga to people. What was it like? 5am starts; four hours of yoga per day; two hours of lectures on anatomy and yoga philosophy; daily nasal cleansing with a neti pot; cold showers; monkeys, stray dogs and cows (and dung) everywhere; chanting Sanskrit mantras and lots of ‘omming’; crazy humidity and fans that kept stopping because of power cuts through the day and night All up, it was brilliant. There were people on the course from all over the world aged from 20 to 60-something. All shapes and sizes, fat, thin, tall, short, bendy and not-so-bendy – because yoga is for absolutely everyone. Before I went I kind of hoped that by the end of it I’d be one of them bendy yoga goddesses who do wheel pose in bikinis on mountain tops and post the photos on Facebook. No such luck. I did manage to master a few poses I couldn’t do before, like the headstand but I also realised that flexibility takes time… especially when you’ve been sitting at a computer about nine hours a day for 25 or so years. Anyway, now that I’ve got the bit of paper that says I’m allowed to teach, all I need to do is find somewhere that’ll let me loose on their unsuspecting clients. I’ll let you know more about the whole experience in the next issue (didn’t finish a story in time for this issue). Meanwhile, what’s hot in this issue? We tackle some big words like holotropic and cranio-sacral, find out how these healing modalities could help you. Don’t miss the story about The Gerson Therapy, a holistic approach to treating cancer – it might not be for everyone but it’s good to have options, especially when traditionally the only option for someone diagnosed with cancer was chemotherapy and surgery. Even for people without cancer, The Gerson Therapy can teach us a huge amount about the phenomenal impact of food on our physical health.
Tamara Pitelen ‘Like’ our Facebook page (please) www.facebook.com/AwakeningsME Check out our website for stories, events and a UAE holistic directory www.awakeningsme.com Join the Meet-up group and come along to a coffee morning www.meetup.com/AwakeningsME
www.awakeningsme.com Approved by the Abu Dhabi National Media Council
Where to pick up the mag
As well as in the retail space (supermarkets, bookshops...), thank you to our friends in business who stock the magazine, Holland & Barrett, Breath & Health Alternative Medical Centre, Chiron Clinic, Yoga Ashram, Yapparel, She Moves, Illuminations Centre, Third Eye Centre, Spadunya Club, Organic Glow Beauty Lounge.
THE UAE AND HEALTHY LIVING IN YOUR GUIDE TO HOLISTIC
MIDDLE EAST
cancer & holistic healing 2014 ISSUE 08 | SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER
WIN
2014 ISSUE 08 • SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER
c B’atude organi ng Foam luxury Soothi Toner! Cleanser + See page 48
juicing. regime featuring daily enemas and Gerson Therapy is an tough vegan chemotherapy and surgery For some though, it’s preferable to
cancer & holistic healing
Yoga for backpain
How yoga makes back pain better... and worse
Meditation as medication
The healing power of meditation
Gerson Therapy is an tough vegan
Holotropic Breathwork
Breathing into altered consciousness
regime featuring daily enemas and
Cranio-sacral Therapy Healing via the nervous system
juicing. For some though, it’s preferable
ELECTRIC … LUxURY Porsche, Cadillac Bentley, BMW, all going green yep, they’re
Superfoods
How to get maximum benefits
Making scents
The power of aromatherapy
BALCONY GARDENS UAE How to grow your own at home
AED15
SUBSCRIBE TO AWAKENINGS MAGAZINE! It’s just too risky. What if they all sell out at your nearest supermarket and bookstore? It’s too awful to think about. No, to make sure you don’t miss your next issue of Awakenings Middle East magazine, buy a subscription and we’ll post it straight to you. Or why not buy a subscription for a friend? It’s a great birthday or thank you gift - it won’t die like flowers and it’s less fattening than chocolates. To subscribe, go to www.awakeningsme.com and click on the ‘Subscribe’ link. You can buy an annual subscription for $15 (AED 55), which is cheaper than buying in the shops.
to chemotherapy and surgery
MAN GOES NEW AGE BALI AND TAIWAN RETREATS | NEANDERTHAL ALTERNATIVE UAE DIRECTORY | 8/13/14 10:53 PM Cover final.indd 1
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happenings&events
What’s happening in your town 27 September, Amira’s Love Oracle Workshop
Learn how to read Amira’s Love Oracle Cards and tap into your intuition to tune into relationship dynamics. Amira’s approach unlocks the ease in interpreting cards plus there are snapshot insights for all participants from Amira. The same workshop is also being held on 24 October. When: 1pm to 3.30pm Where: Hotel Boardroom in Dubai Marina Cost: AED 500. Contacts: To inquire or register, email psychic_amira@msn.com or call 055 763 7713 www.amiracelon.com
20 September, Dubai Women’s Yoga, Fashion and Beauty Day An afternoon of yoga, fashion and beauty featuring yoga demonstrations; sustainably-produced clothing and accessories from Bali, Turkey and Europe; natural, noninvasive beauty treatments and products; healthy snacks and drinks, plus raw chocolate treats. Where: Location to be announced on website Cost: AED 50 Contact: Email kaya@privateyogaindubai.com or tel/ whatsapp +971 56 212 5878. For more information and to sign up, click on Events at www.privateyogaindubai.com
Awakenings Middle East Meet-ups
Did you know that the readers of Awakenings magazine like to get together every now and then? Usually in a café over a late breakfast with a guest speaker along to talk about anything from Reiki to making your own fermented foods. Don’t miss the next one, join the group at www.meetup.com/AwakeningsME
Free meditation
Every Friday at 5pm, Yoga Ashram in JLT has free meditation classes. Where: Cluster X, 1504 Jumeirah Bay X3, JLT, Dubai. Tel. 04 360 9028 or email info@yogaashram.com. www.yogaashram.com
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10 October, Holotropic Breathwork workshop
Holotropic Breathwork is a powerful technique for selfhealing that uses your breath to access an expanded state of consciousness, resolve old traumas and issues, and experience different states of being (see page 14 for a first-hand story about the experience). Not sure? Attend the free awareness talk on Holotropic Breathwork on Monday 6 October, 7pm-8.30pm. When: Friday 10 October, 9am-7.30pm Where: Umm Suqueim (directions supplied) Cost: Workshop AED 1,200. Facilitators: Dr. Yahia Kabil and Andrea Anstiss Send an email to vanessajarnold@hotmail.com to attend the free talk and/or the workshop.
25 Sept and 2 October, Love, Dating and Marriage in Dubai
Still single and wondering why? Unlock your love life with this two-part course especially for the UAE, held over two evenings. Come with an open mind and an open heart. The same workshop will be running again on 6 and 13 November. When: 25 Sept and 2 October from 7pm-8.30pm. Or 6 and 13 November. Venue: Hotel Boardroom in Dubai Marina. Cost: AED 600 Email: psychic_amira@msn.com or tel: 055 763 7713 www.amiracelon.com
Gluten-free café
Whether you’re gluten-intolerant or just prefer eating gluten-free, check out Elken Café – Community in Dubai Marina which is now serving a range of gluten-free options. Call them on 04 432 5720. Located in Pearl Marina Hotel Apartments, B1 waterfront, Al Marsa Rd, Dubai Marina. www.elkencafe.com
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happenings&events
Volunteers and donations needed at special needs centre
Senses Residential and Day Care Centre for Special Needs is a non-profit organisation, and only residential care facility for special needs in the UAE and the Middle East. Specialised programs combine speech and music therapy, art, life skills, sports and physiotherapy for children from the age of two to nineteen with mild or severe physical disabilities and Down Syndrome. Many of the children require sponsorship to assist with medical expenses, food, clothing, 24-hour-care and equipment. To sponsor one of the children, email info@sensescentre.com. The centre is always looking for volunteers to assist with cleaning, washing, cooking, spending time with the children in the class rooms, reading stories, music therapy, painting and more. Contact: +971 4 457 26 75 / +971 55 959 03 09 Email: info@sensescentre.com www.sensescentre.com
2-9 November, Yoga, Dance and Detox in Turkey
Reconnect to your innate female instincts on this weeklong retreat at the luxury Detox Bay resort by the ocean in Bodrum, Turkey. A week of rejuvenation through gourmet raw food, mindful movement and community. Raw chocolate detox treats included. Your hosts are dance teacher Jacqui Lalita and Dubai-based holistic yoga teacher Kaya Peters. For more information and bookings visit www. kayapetersretreats.com or www.danceofthedivine.org
7-8 November, Fit Dubai
The region’s only consumer event dedicated to nutrition, wellness, sports, and fitness, Fit Dubai takes place on 7-8 November at the Emirates Golf Club in Dubai. Focusing on a healthy and active lifestyle through nutrition, wellness, sports and fitness. There’ll be exhibitions, workshops and seminars, health awareness campaigns, demonstrations, “We CAN-CER-VIVE”, health, fitness and sports competitions, retail shopping, kids zone, etc. To enquire how your company can become a sponsor or exhibitor, contact: Belle Belarmino on tel. +971 4 442 9759 or email belle@fitdxb.com www.fitdxb.com
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7 November, 5th Dubai Women’s Run
Join other women of Dubai at this year’s Dubai Women’s Run. Set your pace over 5km or 10km. AED 100 entry fee. When: 7am on Friday 7 November Where: Opposite Madinat Jumeirah on Umm Suqeim Road. Register online at www.dubaiwomensrun.com
HOLISTIC NEWS HOT YOGA DOES NOT BURN 1,000 CALORIES AN HOUR
Rumour has it that doing a hot yoga or Bikram yoga class burns 1,000 calories but a new study says that’s just not true. The study, which was carried out by the Department of Health and Exercise Science in the College of Health and Human Sciences at Colorado State University, found that a research group of 18-40 year olds burned 330460 calories per session. That being said, hot yoga is still a brilliant work-out and is great for weight-loss.
FIRST ELECTRIC HARLEY-DAVIDSON MOTORBIKE
That’s right, the brand that’s basically another word for ‘macho’ is getting on the eco bandwagon with the launch of the first-ever all electric Harley-Davidson motorbike. Called Project LiveWire, a 2014 US tour of the new bike kicked off with a journey down Route 66 in June. In 2015, the Project LiveWire Experience will expand into Canada and Europe. Although, when it reaches the Middle East will depend on how the bike is received in the initial markets. Mark-Hans Richer, Senior Vice President of Harley-Davidson Motor Company said: “Project LiveWire is more like the first electric guitar – not an electric car.” Smoothly aligning going green with rock ‘n’ roll. Nice, Mark. For more information, www.h-d.com and http://project.harley-davidson.com
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awakenedminds
Mindfulness
meditation as medication Even most traditional doctors in the UK now believe their patients could improve their health with meditation. Edo Shonin, William Van Gordon, and Mark D. Griffiths of the Psychological Wellbeing and Mental Health Research Unit of the UK’s Nottingham Trent University report. www.awakeningsme.com
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ntil recently, it was practically unheard of that doctors and other front-line health professionals would even consider prescribing their patients’ meditation rather than medication. However, according to a report by the UK’s Mental Health Foundation, 72 per cent of general practitioners in the UK now believe that patients can improve their health by practising meditation. The most popular meditation technique to be used in research and healthcare settings is mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness is the practice of cultivating a full and open awareness of the present moment. Research has shown that we have a tendency to not be ‘fully present’ and this can
sometimes leave us feeling that life is racing by too fast. If we spend most of our time dwelling on the past and/ or trying to rush towards the future, then we miss out on what is happening ‘here and now’. Given that the past is history, and the future is fantasy, the present moment is the only place where we can truly experience and appreciate the wonders of life. So how do we introduce mindfulness into our daily lives and make sure that we stay in touch with the present moment?
Mindfulness explained
Mindfulness has been used by Buddhist practitioners for over 2,500 years. Although you’d be forgiven for thinking that ‘mindfulness’ means
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that we should be ‘full of mind’, this doesn’t quite capture the essence of mindfulness practice. Being ‘full of mind’ basically means that there is a lot of mental exertion (as well as a lot of brain noise and chatter). Having a ‘full up’ mind all of the time can be stressful and tiring and it doesn’t leave room for wholesome thoughts to grow and flourish. Mindfulness helps to create space in the mind so that we can observe and nourish our being more fully. Life is an extraordinarily rare and fragile gift. If we are fortunate, it may last for 100 years. Each and every moment contained within those 100 years is profoundly unique. Nobody else will experience that moment and cont. overleaf
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it will never arise again. It was born, it lived, and it died – gone forever. If we are not fully aware of all that we see, hear, smell, taste, and touch in each and every moment then maybe we have to conclude that we are not fully alive. The Pali word for mindfulness is ‘sati’ which means ‘to remember’ – in the sense that we should remember to be aware of all that we experience in the present moment. Given the present moment is made up of countless happenings and occurrences, the Buddhist teachings on mindfulness outline four key areas that can be used as focus points for our concentration: (i) the body (starting with the breath), (ii) feelings, (iii) thoughts and mental processes, and (iv) the environment around us. Basically then, the best way to practice mindfulness is to start by becoming aware of our breathing, then expand our meditative awareness to encompass the body, then feelings and thoughts, and finally the environment in which we find ourselves. Meditation improves intellectual functioning and alleviates depression.
The trick is to not create a separation between your mindfulness practice and the rest of your life The health benefits of mindfulness
Research studies have shown that over 80 per cent of British adults believe that modern-day pressured lifestyles lead to stress and illness and that their health can be improved by slowing down and learning to be mindful of the present moment. According to the latest research findings, mindfulness meditation can be beneficial for improving a wide variety of health conditions including stress, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, eating
disorders, and even problems relating to sexual performance. In fact, some forms of mindfulness meditation are now recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence for the treatment of specific types of depression. In addition to its medical benefits, scientific research has also shown that mindfulness can improve intellectual functioning and memory capacity – including in school-age children. Engaging in mindfulness regularly has also been shown to improve people’s spiritual wellbeing as well as their overall sense of purpose in life.
Five tips for practising mindfulness effectively
1. Adopt a suitable meditation posture: The first thing to think about when starting to practice
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mindfulness meditation is to adopt a suitable meditation posture. The most important things to keep in mind are that your posture is stable and that you are comfortable (because a good physical posture leads to a good mental posture). Some people prefer to sit cross-legged on a meditation cushion whilst others prefer sitting upright on a chair. It’s simply a matter of personal preference – either position can work well. In an eight-week group mindfulness program we developed called Meditation Awareness Training (MAT), the analogy of a mountain is used to help participants understand the most appropriate posture for meditation. A mountain has a definite presence, it is upright and stable, yet at the same time it is without tension and does not have to strain to maintain
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its posture – it is relaxed, content, and deeply-rooted in the earth. 2. Follow the breath As part of mindfulness practice, observing the breath is used as a kind of ‘meditative anchor’ to help with concentration and with maintaining an open-awareness of the present moment. Being fully aware of the in-breath and out-breath helps to ‘tie the mind’ to the present moment and to slow down our thought processes. If you have difficulty concentrating, then try counting the breath from one to 10, and then back to one. Alternatively, quietly guide yourself with phrases such as: “Breathing in, I am fully aware of my in-breath; breathing out, I am fully aware of my out-breath.” “Breathing in, I am here; breathing out, I am now.” Or “Breathing in, there is nowhere I need to be; breathing out, I am already home...” It is very important not to force your breathing – let the breath follow its natural course and allow it to calm and deepen on its own. 3. Carry your meditation cushion with you Just as conditions such as the sun, rain, and nutrients are required for a seed to grow into a blossoming flower, meditative development requires us to make the ‘right effort’ at all times. Sometimes people try to cram in their mindfulness practice with all of the other activities of their lives and they make the excuse that they don’t have time to practice. However, this approach often leads to a stressful attitude towards mindfulness and for some people the practice can quickly start to become a chore. Therefore, the trick is to not create a separation between your mindfulness practice and the rest of your life. In fact, it’s when you blow out your candles and stand up from your meditation cushion (or chair) that the practice
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Engaging in mindfulness regularly has also been shown to improve people’s spiritual wellbeing as well as their overall sense of purpose in life of mindfulness really begins. While sitting or writing at the computer, tidying-up at home, cooking the dinner, or doing the weekly food shop, do your best to be mindful and to remember to observe your breathing. Real meditators are those who can practice ‘on the job’ and this is why some meditation teachers tell their students to carry their meditation cushions with them at all times. Try not to battle with yourself – make the present moment your home and simply bring your awareness to whatever you are doing. 4. Make use of mindfulness reminders Based on our experience of teaching and researching MAT, those that best manage to integrate their mindfulness practice into everyday life tend to be the ones who show the greatest improvements in overall levels of psychological and spiritual wellbeing. One helpful way of maintaining mindfulness during everyday activities is to use ‘mindfulness reminders’. An example is an hour chime (e.g., from a wrist-watch or desktop computer), that, upon sounding, can be used as a trigger to gently bring the mind back to the present moment and to the natural flow of the in-breath and out-breath.
5. Have realistic expectations and keep practicing Finally – as with many things in life – it is not uncommon for people to begin practising mindfulness enthusiastically, but then give up as soon as a minor difficulty is encountered. One reason is unrealistic expectations. Mindfulness is not a quick-fix solution. Longlasting spiritual and personal growth require perseverance and a great deal of practice. Thinking that mindfulness meditation can immediately solve all of your problems or change your life overnight is a mistake. However, just as all effects follow a cause, the day-in day-out integrating of all aspects of your life with present-moment awareness will gradually begin to soften the conditioned mind and – over time – allow rays of tranquillity and insight to slowly break through. When correctly practiced, mindfulness is extremely hard work and requires us to be patient and compassionate with ourselves. However, mindfulness also requires us to thoroughly enjoy life no matter what situation we find ourselves in. The practice of accepting and getting to know our mind and true selves during mindfulness meditation – including those parts of our character that we’d sometimes prefer didn’t exist – can be really hard work, but it should also be a lot of fun!
The authors of this article are EDO SHONIN, WILLIAM VAN GORDON, and MARK D. GRIFFITHS. They work out of the Psychological Wellbeing and Mental Health Research Unit, Psychology Division, Nottingham Trent University To get in touch, email: meditation@ntu.ac.uk
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awakenedheart
Healing with Holotropic Breathwork What on earth is Holotropic Breathwork? It’s a technique for achieving healing states of consciousness. Still don’t understand? Read this firsthand account of a Holotropic Breathwork journey by Alexandra Salkova McKenzie. www.awakeningsme.com
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I
was running through a deep forest. Everything seemed dim and dark but I felt joy. Joy from running, moving and the scents of the forest. In that moment, my consciousness moved inward and to my surprise, I realised I was a huge, black shaggy wolf… “This is crazy!” I thought to myself but in my years as a student of psychology and a practitioner of various healing therapies, I’ve witnessed enough extraordinary experiences to know that it’s best to put my intellect to the side so - with curiosity and apprehension – I allowed this experience to unfold in front of me. The wolf ran out of the forest and stood next to a village made of teepees. People were gathered around a fire. Then the music changed into a tribal song and all the villagers - as if they also heard the loud music - started to dance around the fire. The loud music set the tone and I was breathing in rhythm with the dancers and the observing wolf. I couldn’t differentiate who I was; as if I was the music, the villagers, the forest and the wolf. But at some level I also knew I was in a room with my fellow Holotropic breathers, all of us on a daylong workshop of self-exploration...
WHAT IS HOLOTROPIC BREATHWORK
Developed by psychiatrist Stan Grof and psychotherapist Christina Grof, Holotropic Breathwork is a practice that uses breathing and other elements to allow access to non-ordinary states for the purpose of self-exploration and healing. It combines the power of breathing, the therapeutic potential of music, chanting, bodywork and mandala drawing, in order to achieve nonordinary, healing states of consciousness. All of these techniques have been used for centuries in the sacred practices of ancient and native cultures.
Usually done in groups, people work in pairs and alternate in the roles of experiencer (‘breather’) and ‘sitter’. The sitter’s primary responsibility is to focus compassionate attention on the breather. Secondly, the sitter is available to assist the breather, but not to interfere or interrupt the process. Facilitators are also on hand to help if necessary. According to the Holotropic Breathwork website (www.holotropic. com): “With the eyes closed and lying on a mat, each person uses their own breath and the music in the room to enter a non-ordinary state of consciousness. This state activates the natural inner healing process of the individual’s psyche, bringing him or her a particular set of internal experiences.”
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In that very instant I noticed that I am not scared of anything. In fact, it was as if I could reach the girl’s fear and feel it too, but I wasn’t scared. The panther, me, realised my power and strength and I felt fearless instead. The challenge of being fearless seemed exciting. I looked into the darkness and called: “Bring the fear, I am ready to feel the fear!” The fear came out creeping as a dark fog from the forest, brushed off my coat and disappeared. It left me flabbergasted. “Am I truly fearless?” I started to search for the fear – I felt excitement, as if I was playing a game of emotions. In that moment, the music changed and I shifted from the black panther into a beautiful angel floating high in the sky.
I looked into the darkness and called: “Bring the fear, I am ready to feel the fear!” The fear came out creeping as a dark fog from the forest, brushed off my coat and disappeared. Practitioners can relive any stage of their own history or enter the realms of archetypes, animals, birth and death.
ANGELS AND DEMONS
Being the wolf and observing the villagers made me aware of my journey. Somehow, I knew, when I grow spiritually, I will become a black panther. In that instance, the wolf morphed into a black panther. The strength and solid power ran through my veins. Music changed and I noticed the villagers could not see me anymore. I stood facing a dark corner of the forest. A loud cry from one of my fellow breathers caught my attention. The girl screamed with fear, and her loud shriek penetrated my panther experience. The analytical, logical mind guarding my visions pointed out that she must be scared of something.
As my experience unfolded, my consciousness morphed into an angel floating above humanity. I understood human emotions from a much higher vantage point. Interestingly, Grof states that probably the most profound experience available in holotropic states is identification with the Supracosmic and Metacosmic Void (Sanskrit ‘sunyata’), primordial Emptiness and Nothingness that is conscious itself. I watched the wars across lands and thousand of humans fighting for a cause. Tremendous sadness and despair was hovering above humanity across time. Looking down at humanity, I understood… I experienced absolute nothingness of emotions; the emptiness, which was vast and sweet, and I became aware of a much deeper meaning of existence. cont. overleaf
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The music changed and the harmonic tones brought me into another scene. I was one of a group of riders on beautiful white horses galloping, as if nearly flying, through the countryside.
WHERE DID THE NAME ‘HOLOTROPIC BREATHWORK’ COME FROM? If you were thinking that ‘holotropic breathwork’ is quite the mouthful, you wouldn’t be the first. The term was coined by psychiatrists Stanislav and Christina Grof and translates as ‘moving towards wholeness’. A husband and wife team, the Grofs were researchers into the use of non-ordinary states of consciousness for purposes of exploring, healing, and obtaining growth and insights into the human psyche. Stan Grof distinguishes between two modes of consciousness: the hylotropic and the holotropic. The hylotropic refers to “the normal, everyday experience of consensus reality”. The holotropic refers to states that aim towards wholeness and the totality of existence. The holotropic is characteristic of non-ordinary states of consciousness such as meditative, mystical, or psychedelic experiences. Christina Grof died in June 2014 at the age of 73, she is survived by her husband who is now aged 83. www.holotropic.com
In this moment I became tired. I opened my eyes and released my sitter from his duties. I felt the experience was pretty much finished although the two and half hours had felt like minutes.
GIFT OF FEARLESSNESS
After a Holotropic Breathwork session, participants express their experiences through painting mandalas. At the end of my session, I was unable to speak for a while, integrating my experiences. I painted my mandala in silence and took my time to assimilate everything. I realised that the feeling of fearlessness, detaching from emotions, seeing a bigger picture behind life and living fearlessly was a true gift. I recalled Anita Moorjani’s recent book Dying To Be Me where she described “being fearless” as one of the most important steps in reaching a fulfilled life. Through my professional practice, I am aware of the wisdom of our psyche and Holotropic Breathwork’s vision further supports that it is not the healer or the therapist who is wise, but the psyche of the individual whose wisdom is tended and brought to flower.
We are not human beings having spiritual experiences, we are spiritual beings having human experiences According to Swiss psychiatrist Carl G. Jung (1875-1961), the psyche is not a product of the brain and it is not contained in the skull; it is the creative and generative principle of the cosmos (anima mundi).
Similarly, French Jesuit priest and philosopher Pierre Teilhard de Chardin (1881-1955) said, “We are not human beings having spiritual experiences, we are spiritual beings having human experiences.” [Source: Le Phénomène Humain, 1955] Holotropic Breathwork is recommended to anyone who is on a journey of self-discovery. Some sessions may not be a walk in the park however every lesson we take is another step on our way to true self. Ultimately, every part of our existence, even personal growth cannot be learnt, it has to be experienced.
Alexandra Salkova McKenzie of Inner Self Consultancy is a certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, NLP Master and Coach, EFT/EET, Reiki and ThetaHealing Practitioner and Ham-Sa Yogini. She provides private coaching for those seeking change, growth and health as well as meditation classes and workshops. Tel 050 698 46 12 or email: alexandra@innerselfconsultancy.com www.innerselfconsultancy.com Holotropic Breathwork UAE Want to try Holotropic Breathwork? Email Vanessa on vanessajarnold@hotmail.com for information on future workshops in the UAE. The next one is Friday 10 October from 9am to 7.30pm. A free awareness talk is on Monday 6 October from 7pm to 8.30pm. You can also join the Facebook group called Holotropic Breathwork Dubai for all the latest news.
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Yoga for
back pain
How can yoga help back pain… and when will it make back problems even worse? Yoga teacher Harsha Varyani explains.
Wish you could do this? Then it’s time to take up yoga...
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I
n my years of practicing and teaching yoga, I have encountered many people of all ages suffering from mild to chronic back pain. Back problems are now so common that corporates are reporting this as being the second most common ailment for missed workdays. Much of this can be traced back to modern lifestyles but yoga can reverse the damage.
Back pain causes
So what are the causes of back pain? Here are some of the ones common to everyone although sports injuries or freak accidents can also factor. 1. Poor posture: Not keeping the spine straight when walking or sitting is a major cause of back pain. In today’s fast-paced modern world where most of us multitask and spend in excess of two to three hours hunched over our computers, laptops or tablets, is it any wonder that we don’t pay any attention to our posture? How often do we lounge at the back of the chair or sofa instead of sitting with back straight on the edge of the seat or use a cushion at the back to keep the spine erect? 2. Not engaging your core muscles: The spine has to work harder when the abdominal muscles, including the oblique muscles at the sides of the waist, are in ‘relax mode’ all the time. We forget the muscles in the abdomen are meant to keep the back up! 3. Excess weight: Good spinal health also means getting rid of excess weight. The human body is not designed to carry excess weight and an increasing abdominal girth leads to excessive weight and strain on the spine and can cause back pain. 5. Sedentary living: Movement of the body is essential to good spine health and leading increasingly sedentary lives does not help .Our body movements today are
Cobra pose, or Bhujangasana in Sanskrit, is one of the many yoga postures that is good for building back strength.
HELPS OR HARMS?
Asanas [postures] maintain the health of joints and can prevent the debilitating back and joint problems that are so common with age lessened due to gadgets and other technological marvels, which help us to complete our manual tasks at hand with minimum effort. 6. Heavy lifting: Lifting heavy objects incorrectly or folding forward without bending the knees adds stress to the spine.
How yoga can help – and when does it make things worse? Yoga helps greatly with spinal health as the different poses stretch and twist the spine thereby releasing stresses from the cushioning between the vertebrae of the spine. According to the Founder of Art of Living Organization Worldwide Sri Sri Ravishankar, “Asanas [postures] maintain the health of joints and can prevent the debilitating back and joint problems that are so common with age.” When practicing yoga though, one has to maintain awareness on the posture and on keeping the abdominal muscles engaged. All this brings greater awareness of one’s own body thereby improving posture. cont. overleaf
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The warning though is that practicing yoga without due care can sometimes bring to the surface a weakness already present in the spine and make the condition worse. This happens because perhaps a person’s awareness is lacking, especially when the postures are done quickly or incorrectly and if the body is pushed beyond its capability. The mindset of ‘no pain, no gain’ has no place in yoga. It’s the same for comparing yourself to others and attempting to do the posture as well as the instructor or another student. This leads to over-stretching, pushing the body beyond its limits and to injury. Back pain can also be caused by doing a lot of forward or backward bends without sufficient counter postures. Similarly, difficult and incorrect twists can also add tension and strain the spine.
FOCUSED AWARENESS
When we get into a posture slowly with awareness, then we are better able to tell when it’s painful, at which point we should immediately ease off or come out of it. Approach a pose gently and work into the discomfort very slowly and gradually. Doing repetitions of the posture can help get into it more comfortably. To help take away additional strain on the spine, engage the hip extensors and the gluteal muscles as well as the abdominal muscles. Breathing steadily throughout also helps ease any discomfort. Practicing yoga with awareness and not over-extending while doing the postures helps to avoid any injury. Always keep in mind the limitations of your body’s flexibility and approach the posture gently using the
breath, this helps the muscles relax as you ease into the posture. According to Patanjali, the man known as the father of modern yoga as he was one of the first people to give the practice a written form and structure, the key to a correct yoga posture is stability without struggle, that is, the posture should feel stable and enjoyable. Engaging the abdominal muscles by keeping the navel slightly contracted throughout the yoga session and also at times contracting the anal muscles and tightening the hips, that is, the gluteal muscles, helps to protect the spine. Keeping the knees slightly bent or soft even when bending forward, goes a long way in protecting wear and tear of the spine as we age.
Harsha Varyani is a Sri Sri Yoga teacher at Yoga Ashram in JLT, Dubai. She is passionate about sharing all the benefits of yoga and dispelling the myth that only flexible people can do yoga. www.yogaashram.com.
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postures for back pain
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Cat and cow stretch... this part is ‘cat’
To alleviate back pain, start with simple postures like cat and cow stretch, half-spinal twists and wind-relieving pose (pawanmuktasana). Also, if you’re doing any poses lying down on your back, keep your knees bent. Lastly, fewer forward bends should be attempted until the back strengthens sufficiently. Here are details of some of the asanas for back pain: 1. Cat and Cow stretch (Marjaryasana) Come onto hands and knees. Arms perpendicular to the floor, shoulder width apart, Knees are hip-width apart. Inhale, raise chin, tilt your head back, and hollow spine. Tighten hips. Hold for five counts. Counter pose: As you exhale, take chin to chest and round your spine, pushing your upper back to the ceiling. Hold this pose for a five counts before you return to the initial table-like stage. Continue five or six rounds before you come out of this yoga posture. Benefits: Brings flexibility to the spine; massages the digestive organs and improves digestion, tones the abdomen. 2. Supine spine twist (Natarajasana with knees bent and feet together) Lie on back with arms horizontally stretched out in line with the shoulders. Bend your knees, feet together. Bring knees to chest. Drop knees to right and look over left shoulder. Then drop both knees to left and look over right shoulder. Coming out, bring both knees to chest before stretching out and relaxing. Benefits: Strengthens the spine; brings deep relaxation to the body and mind. 3. Bridge pose - modified (Sethu bandasana) Lie on back. Fold knees and keep feet hip distance apart on the floor. Keep arms beside body, palms facing down. Inhaling, slowly lift lower back, middle back and upper back off the floor; raise hips/pelvis to the level of the shoulders only. Feel bottom firm up in this pose. Keep breathing easily. Hold the posture for a minute or two and exhale and gently release the pose. Benefits: Strengthens the back muscles; relieves the tired back instantaneously, stretches the chest, neck and spine. 4. Cobra pose (Bhujangasana) with hands folded in front and forehead on hands Lie on stomach with legs together. Fold arms, hands resting on each other, forehead on hands. Breath in, slowly lift your head and chest. Breathing out, gently bring chest and head back to the floor. Benefits: Opens up the shoulders and neck; strengthens the back and shoulders; improves flexibility of upper and middle back; expands the chest, and improves blood circulation.
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Bridge pose or Sethu bandasana
Full locust pose or Shalabhasana.
5. Half Locust pose (Ardha Shalabhasana) Lie on Stomach. legs together. Breathing in, raise and extend the right leg up contracting the hips and using the gluteal muscles, not the hamstrings. Hold and keep breathing. Breathing out, bring the right leg down. Repeat all steps with the left leg. Take two to three deep breaths. For full locust, raise both legs together. Benefits: Increases flexibility and strength of the entire back. There is a whole series of postures that can be done to strengthen the back, sign up for the next Yoga for Your Back workshop at Yoga Ashram. Call 04 360 9028 or email info@yogaashram.com. www.yogaashram.com
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Cancer and
holistic healing
Can the all-natural Gerson Therapy replace chemotherapy and heal cancer? By Neha Jamani.
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he very word ‘cancer’ strikes fear and panic into the heart. In allopathic medicine, its diagnosis offers only one option for treatment and survival: a punishing regime of radiation, chemotherapy and surgery. In the world of alternative healing though, there are other approaches to treating cancer and chronic degenerative diseases, one of which is The Gerson Therapy. It’s not easy though. As well as following a hyper strict vegan, plant-based, no salt and virtually fatfree diet, people on the therapy also have to make thirteen fresh juices a day and give themselves four coffee enemas a day – and they have to do this religiously for 18 months to three years, depending on the type of cancer and its severity. Not so much as a grain of white sugar or white flour can pass your lips. For some, chemotherapy seems easier.
WHAT IS GERSON THERAPY?
Created by German physician Dr. Max Gerson in the 1930s, The Gerson Therapy is a detoxification and nutrition programme that strengthens the immune system. Born in Germany in 1881, Dr. Gerson initially developed the therapy as a treatment for his own debilitating migraines and eventually as a treatment for chronic degenerative diseases such as skin tuberculosis, diabetes and -- most famously -- cancer. Dr. Gerson believed that toxicity and nutritional deficiency were the two factors in the onset of cancer. The Gerson programme seeks to address the underlying systemic causes of cancer and activate the body’s ability to heal itself. This is what sets the Gerson Therapy apart from conventional cancer treatments. A metabolic therapy, it is based on the theory that disease is caused by the body’s accumulation of toxic substances. Metabolic therapy uses a combination of special diets,
enzymes, nutritional supplements, and other measures to remove ‘toxins’ from the body and strengthen the body’s defenses against disease. Gerson’s youngest daughter Charlotte, now age 92, energetically continues her father’s work. The Gerson Therapy activates the body’s extraordinary ability to heal itself through a strictly organic vegetarian diet, raw juices, coffee enemas, and natural supplements. The powerful natural treatment boosts the body’s immune system to heal cancer, arthritis, heart disease, allergies and many other degenerative diseases. With a whole body approach to healing, the Gerson programme aims to restore the internal terrain and fully utilise the body’s amazing self-healing ability.
HOW GERSON THERAPY WORKS
With generous, high-quality nutrition, increased oxygen availability, detoxification, and improved metabolism, the cells – and the body – can regenerate, become healthy and prevent future illness. The Gerson Therapy is a finelytuned precision instrument, where
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every component plays an important role and affects all other parts. It must be practiced in its entirety without omitting a single detail or the overall therapy cannot work to its potential.
FOOD
Food processing adds more sodium to the foods we eat, which changes the metabolism of the cells in the body, eventually causing cancer. According to practitioners of the Gerson Therapy, people who have cancer have too much sodium and not enough potassium in their cells. The Gerson diet starts out as a strict low-salt vegan diet excluding animal products and oils (except for flax seed oil). After four weeks, the diet evolves to include a small amount of protein. Nuts and seeds are initially excluded as they are too high in oils, but they are reintroduced later on. Vegetable proteins such as lentils or rice are also gradually introduced back into the diet.
JUICES
Freshly-made organic juices are one of the most important healing components in the Gerson programme. Juicing allows the body
Gerson Therapy activates the body’s ability to heal itself through a strictly organic vegetarian diet, raw juices, coffee enemas, and natural supplements. cont. overleaf
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awakenedbody cont. from pg23
to easily digest and absorb nutrients and enzymes, so the programme consists of a large volume of fresh juices. Apple and carrot juice, green juice and citrus juice are consumed throughout the day by patients on the Gerson programme. Depending on the protocol, sometimes juices are consumed hourly up to 13 times per day. Green juices, in particular, contain high amounts of chlorophyll, which releases oxygen and promotes higher oxygen availability for the body. The Gerson protocol requires a special two-step juicer or masticating juicer with a separate hydraulic press. The two-step process is best suited for the Gerson protocol because it helps extract more minerals and essential nutrients.
MEDICATION
All medication used in connection with the Gerson therapy are classified as biological materials of organic origin that are supplied in therapeutic amounts. These medications are nutritional supplements consisting of natural substances present in and needed for the normal functioning of various body systems. Some of the supplements used in the programme – such as potassium and lugol -- are added to the juices. Others, including CoQ10, liver extract, pancreatic enzymes, B-12, thyroid hormone, niacin, and flax seed oil – are taken orally with juices and food.
DETOXIFICATION
The combined effect of the food, juices and medication causes the immune system to attack and kill the tumor tissue. Detoxification is key to flushing out the accumulated toxins and preventing the risk of overburdening the liver. Coffee enemas are the primary method of detoxification of the tissues and blood on the Gerson Therapy. The amount of juice is matched to the number of coffee enemas (usually three to five daily), which are self-administered throughout the day. The coffee recommended for use in the enemas is a special lightly-roasted variety.
WHY ISN’T GERSON MAINSTREAM?
Some people may have heard of The Gerson Therapy, but many have not. This remains the case for most alternative cancer treatments. Mainstream cancer research centres feel that the available scientific evidence does not support claims that Gerson Therapy is effective in treating cancer. Furthermore, the principles behind it are not widely accepted by the scientific and medical communities yet. The Gerson Institute, which certifies centres to administer the therapy, is a non-profit organisation whose research unit maintains an extensive collection of reports documenting the research and science behind the Gerson Therapy. The Institute also conducts and collects
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research on the role of diet on cancer and claims to have documented many success stories of people whose conventional doctors gave no hope for recovery, yet were able to overcome their disease against all odds using the Gerson programme.
DIY GERSON THERAPY
Unless you check in to one of the licensed clinics in Tijuana, Mexico or near Budapest, Hungary, The Gerson Therapy is largely a do-it-yourself process, which means that you are solely in charge of administering your programme. Usually, there is no one to supervise you and make sure that you observe the rules faithfully. The Gerson Institute does not own or operate any medical facilities. Instead, it refers patients to the clinics that it licenses as properly administering the therapy. Like most alternative therapies, the Gerson Therapy is very expensive. If you are thinking of having Gerson therapy at home there are also costs involved. In addition to the initial cost of a special juicer and possibly a water filter, you have ongoing costs of the organic fruit and vegetables, coffee and supplements because this is no short-term fix. The therapy takes time. In his earlier research, Dr. Gerson specified being on the programme about 18 months. But with today’s more toxic environment, practitioners are finding that patients need to be on the therapy for at least two years, and in many cases, three. Non-
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The side effects of the treatments are harsh and the mortality rate is high. It is ultimately up to those who are faced with cancer to decide which treatment they want to undergo. The system is not a miracle cure for everyone, and even the Gerson Institute states that Gerson way of healing is neither a universal panacea nor a miracle cure. The Institute itself states that the therapy may fail for a variety of reasons, or example, if the patient comes to the therapy too late, or commences the therapy after a full range of conventional treatments has failed to produce a remission, or if the patient doesn’t observe the rules of the programme or if the patient has had an essential organ removed. Such cases aside, according to the Gerson Institute’s own research, the programme’s success rate with advanced cancer, and many other serious degenerative diseases, far outstrips that of conventional treatments. The programme is demanding, intensive, prolonged and a far cry from the pill-popping ‘instant’ ways of conventional treatments. But most conventional physicians offer only one route for cancer treatment -- drugs, radiation and surgery -- while ignoring or discounting alternative options such as the Gerson Therapy.
DAY IN THE LIFE OF A GERSON PATIENT What a typical day of therapy looks like for a patient on the cancer protocol...
Enema
Meal
Juice
6:00 AM
Coffee enema
7:00 AM
8:00 AM
Breakfast
Orange
9:00 AM
Green
9:30 AM
Carrot/ apple
10:00 AM
Coffee enema
Carrot/ apple
11:00 AM
Carrot
12:00 PM
Green
1:00 PM
Lunch
Carrot/ apple
2:00 PM
Coffee enema
Green
3:00 PM
Carrot
4:00 PM
Carrot
5:00 PM
Carrot/ apple
6:00 PM
Coffee enema
Green
7:00 PM
Dinner
Carrot/ apple
8:00 PM
9:00 PM
10:00 PM
Coffee enema
malignant diseases such as arthritis and lupus fall on the shorter end of that scale, while advanced cases of cancer fall closer to the three-year range.
PERSONAL CHOICE
According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, there were an estimated 14.1 million cancer
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For more detailed information on this allnatural approach to treatment of chronic degenerative disease, please visit www.thesacredkitchen.org/gerson and www.gerson.org.
cases around the world in 2012, of which 7.4 million cases were in men and 6.7 million in women. This number is expected to increase to 24 million by 2035. Of all diseases, cancer is undoubtedly the one that strikes the greatest fear into most hearts and minds. Its high prevalence in societies worldwide and its effects are devastating.
Neha Jamani A therapeutic and holistic chef, Neha is founder of Dubai-based The Sacred Kitchen. A graduate of Bauman College of Holistic Nutrition and Culinary Arts in California, Neha aims to raise awareness about the importance of food choices and reconnect people with their bodies and the food they eat. www.thesacredkitchen.org
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Tried and tested:
Cranio-sacral Therapy
A gentle healing modality used to balance the central nervous system to deal with mental and physical conditions as diverse as headaches, depression and sports injuries. www.awakeningsme.com
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S
o, the upshot is that years of ongoing stress have left me with decreased spinal mobility resulting in spinal rigidity; an erratic nervous system; areas where my cranio-sacral fluid is congested, as well as hyper-toned musculature, primarily around my mid-thoracic spine. That’s the diagnosis of Shivani Sarsthi, a Physical Therapist based out of Vancouver, Canada, who specialises in cranio-sacral therapy. Her clinical practise is at Breath and Health Alternative Medical Center in Dubai. Cranio-sacral therapy is a non-invasive approach to healing that deals with conditions under the umbrella of mental or physical health, from headaches to depression to sports injuries – under the premise that so much of what ails us has its root in the nervous system; the result of stress or anxiety. The UAE is rife with stress-related issues, Sarsthi says. “You get a lot of Type A personalities, everyone is super-busy, rushing about from one thing to the next until the stressed state becomes normal, which leads to health deterioration until ‘suddenly’ there’s a chronic health issue, anything from Irritable Bowel Syndrome to tendonitis, hip and back pain… all resulting from stress.”
DEEP HEALING
I’ve just had an hour-long session with Sarsthi, it was my first experience of cranio-sacral therapy (CST). It’s a little like having a massage in that you lie on a table in your underwear covered by a towel but instead of being rubbed and kneaded all over your body, she uses a very gentle pressure on just the feet, head, neck and shoulders. In particular she works on the base of the skull and the spine. The therapist’s movements are slow and light. It is amazingly relaxing and feels absolutely wonderful. A trained massage therapist and Reiki healer, Sarsthi has been treating clients with CST for about
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five years. Before that, she used a more traditional orthopaedic approach to healing. For example, if someone came in with shoulder pain, she would treat the shoulder. The frustration, she says, is that healing was often not lasting; the pain would return because the root cause of the problem was not being addressed. This is the crucial difference with cranio-sacral therapy, she says. “You’re treating the root of the problem with cranio-sacral therapy because when you focus on the nervous system, it’s a deeper kind of healing from inside out.” A lot of healing also comes down to something as simple as sleep, Sarsthi says. Most people who are experiencing pain are not getting into the deepest sleep cycles, which are the only states in which tissue healing takes place. CST helps here as well.
RHYTHM AND FLOW
Getting back to me though. How could Sarsthi tell that I’ve got stress-related issues just by holding my head and feeling around my spine? She says that she tunes into the pulses and rhythm, the ebb and flow of the cranial-sacral fluid – this is the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. According to the website of the UK Cranial Sacral Therapy Association, the practitioner “senses tensions in the body and helps to release them in a supported
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and comfortable way. During or after a session you may feel calm and energised with increased clarity of mind and a feeling of well-being.” Sarsthi says she goes into almost a meditative state and feels for the movement and rhythms of the fluid, in a similar way to how a doctor might feel for a pulse to assess blood pressure. She says the rhythm of the cranio-sacral fluid can give her remarkable insights into the client. “After doing this for a few years now, I find I can often tell what’s going on in a person’s life, for example if they’re going through a difficult time. I’m not saying I’m psychic but in this meditative state you get very sensitive.” Ultimately, Sarsthi says she is facilitating the body to heal itself. This includes teaching the body what it feels like to be relaxed. Some of her clients are ADHD children and parents have given very positive feedback regarding changes in their children’s behaviour. “It’s very rewarding, there’s no other profession in the world I’d rather be doing.” Shivani Sarsthi practises craniosacral therapy at Breath and Health Alternative Medical Centre at 1080, Al Wasl Road, Umm Suquim 2, Jumeirah, Dubai. To make an appointment, tel +971 4 3489940 or email: hello@breathandhealth.net
CHEAT NOTES: WHAT IS CRANIO-SACRAL THERAPY Cranio-sacral therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on healing modality used to balance the cranial rhythm, release tension deep in the body, and relieve pain and dysfunction. A light-touch therapy, CST is used to balance the Central Nervous System (brain and spinal cord and its surrounding fluid) in order to decrease sympathetic nerve firing (aka the biological ‘fight or flight response’) while activating the para-sympathetic state (aka the ‘rest and digest response’). The technique involves deep focus and attention to the cranial and neck regions. Some of the mental and physical conditions that can be treated include: Depression, anxiety, migraines, joint and muscle pain, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and sleep disorders.
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What is a
superfood? We’ve had supermodels and superman, now we have superfoods, but what are they? How do you fill your diet with them? And can they leap tall buildings in a single bound?
E
at well. That’s what we’re told. When we consider how closely nutrition is linked to how we look, feel, and function, it’s obviously good advice. The reality is that excellent health and vibrant wellbeing depend on good food choices. That’s why it’s worth topping up with superfoods. The idea of superfood isn’t new and, even though there’s no official definition for the term, it’s pretty much what it says – something we eat that is super good for us! So, what is it that makes a food super? For the most part, it’s the high levels of natural micronutrients it contains. In other words, it’s the presence of lots of antioxidants, essential vitamins, and special co-factors that elevate a food to that status. You see, it is things like these that mop up cell-damaging free radicals, boost the immune system, and reduce inflammation in the body. By doing this, superfoods offer a side-effect-free way of tackling and preventing common killers, such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and cancer. Apart from fatty, cold-water fish, such as salmon and sardines, superfoods are typically plants. Ordinarily, they’re the most colourful of the fruit and vegetables and are often listed online and in magazines as the 10, 20 or 50 things you can munch on and gulp down to energise your day, make you feel younger, and help you live
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longer. You know the ones. They’re the blueberries, goji berries, pomegranates, kales, broccolis, avocados, spirulinas, wheatgrasses, macas, chia seeds, beetroots, quinoas, and others that top the lists of health foods. However, as with most good things, it’s important that we not get carried away by any hype. The truth is that no food, not even a “super” one, is perfect for us – especially not on its own. You see, the nutrient requirements for optimal health are broader than what a single food can supply. This is why, to give our bodies the best shot at getting everything that’s needed, we must go with a super variety. That means the key is to consume combinations of super-foods. But, getting that right isn’t always easy. The good news is that powdered, super-food blends can make cultivating a super-diet a lot easier. By taking mixtures of organicquality superfoods, either added to a smoothie or drunk on their own,
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you can conveniently and consistently eat well. This is why, at Holland and Barrett, we stock the best super-food combinations to help you meet your personal nutrient needs. One such product is the Wellness Brothers’ LEAN95, a raw, vegan, organic blend of spirulina, maca, brown rice, and luralean. LEAN95 is a great source of protein, vitamins, minerals, and fiber and it’s extremely low in calories, making it ideal for weight-loss [see page 49 for more details]. Another convenient superfood is Jax Coco, the only 100 per cent pure coconut water in a glass bottle, it’s loved by Stella McCartney, Elton John, Sienna Miller and Jamie Oliver. Then there’s the Beet It Sport Stamina Shot, a bottle of concentrated beetroot juice, naturally high in nitrates thought to help reduce the demand for oxygen during aerobic exercise, thus enhancing stamina. So do your body and brain a favour and get your superfoods on.
The author of this article is a nutritionist at Holland & Barrett. For ways to super-charge your diet, visit one of the Holland & Barrett outlets in the UAE. Dubai has stores in Mirdif City Centre - 04 236 3574; Dubai Festival City - 04 232 5234; Dubai Mall 04 388 2401; Jumeirah High Street - 04 385 6571; Madinat Jumeirah - 04 451 0391; Oasis Centre - 04 388 3910, and City Walk – 04 344 5887. H&B also have stores in Fujairah City Centre - 09 223 6712 and Ras Al Khaimah’s Al Hamra Mall, 07 243 5245.
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awakenedbeauty
H
Making scents: the
aromatherapy effect
Straight to the brain via the nose, the aroma of essential oils has a powerful effect on our psychological and physiological wellbeing. By Amber Gardner.
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olistic aromatherapy is the use of essential oils to improve physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Essential oils are the pure essences found in flowers, berries, grasses, roots, seeds, bark, fruits and herbs, which are extracted mainly by steam or water distillation. The process is similar to steaming vegetables as opposed to deep-frying them to preserve nutritional value. This methodology ensures that the healing essence and properties of that specific plant or botanic has been preserved as it is delicately concentrated into an essential oil. All oils have their own unique character, aroma and therapeutic properties; as they are highly concentrated, a little goes a long way. Essential oils hold many beneficial qualities on all levels of wellbeing yet their most distinct feature is their aroma. Aroma works on one of the most fascinating systems in our body; the limbic system, the most primal area of our brain that controls emotions, memories, motivation, sexual arousal, sleep patterns and hormones. The simple act of ‘smelling’ activates these areas within the brain and affects us on physical, emotional and mental levels. Smelling an essential oil causes odour molecules to pass through the nose up into the brain, where it is then received by nerve receptors that trigger reactions in the body and mind. The limbic system is directly connected to hormone balance, breathing, blood pressure, memory, stress levels and heart rate. Thus explaining how and why essential oils hold such potent therapeutic qualities. Each essential oil holds its own unique collection of properties that can range from lowering high blood pressure and easing toothaches to instilling a sense of relaxation and happiness. Moreover, the majority of essential oils hold antiseptic, antimicrobial and antiviral qualities, which are beneficial on the physical level.
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awakenedbeauty
Holistic aromatherapy is effective just by smelling the essential oils. Although often associated with massage, it is also a stand-alone practice. Essential oils hold potent qualities without needing the application of massage to be effective. They are successfully used in beauty products, simple topical selfapplication, diffused, used in a bath and much more.
AROMATHERAPY FOR YOU
Even though each essential oil holds its own unique range of therapeutic properties, the limbic system and its memory response have a greater effect on how we perceive scent. Every person responds to each essential oil differently. While lemon essential oil may uplift some people, it may trigger an opposing reaction in others. This is why the consultation process in holistic aromatherapy is crucial as one must take into account the physical, mental and emotional properties of essential oils as well as the reactions of each person to those oils and scents. Moreover, over time, a person’s reactions to different scents will change as healing takes place. A simple example is how, in one person, the smell of lemon essential oil could trigger memories of citrusy lollipops from a happy childhood of summers spent at the beach while, for another person, the lemon scent
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could trigger a painful memory of being trapped in a cleaning cupboard. Consequently, these triggers affect us emotionally as we feel delighted or upset as well as physically as our body responds to the aroma and memory with a smile and relaxed muscles or with a cringe and tensed muscles. Hence, holistic aromatherapy works on the whole person for an array of emotional, mental and physical issues. Throughout history, essential oils and holistic aromatherapy have been used for both their therapeutic and aromatic properties. By design or by accident many people have found their lives were saved or their quality of life was increased through the use of essential oils. Many were revered for their mythical, magical, or religious healing abilities, all of which were made possible by the understanding of essential oils and their applications.
DIY AROMATHERAPY
Three simple and easy home remedies to get you started…
The Pimple Exterminator
• 10ml Grapeseed Oil (high in Vitamin E and antioxidants) • 5 drops of Lemon essential oil • 5 drops of Tea Tree essential oil • 5 drops of Lavender essential oil Mix together and apply on desired areas overnight and watch your pimples disappear.
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The Sunburn Soother
• 30ml of Sesame Seed Oil or Almond Oil (Aloe Vera would also work wonderfully) • 5 drops of Lavender essential oil • 5 drops of Chamomile essential oil • 5 drops of Bergamont essential oil Mix them up and apply all over your body to soothe and cool affected areas. Drink water to rid the body of excess toxins.
The Headache Alleviator
• 10ml of Base Oil (Sesame Seed, Almond Oil, Grapeseed Oil) • 5 drops of Lavender essential oil • 5 drops of Chamomile essential oil Mix together and apply to your forehead then sit with the scent in your hands. Cup palms over your nose and inhale for a few minutes. Drink water to rid the body of excess toxins.
TOP TIP – YA GOTTA LOVE LAVENDER
Everywhere I go, I carry a bottle of pre-mixed bottle lavender essential oil in a carrier of grapeseed oil (10 drops lavender to 10 mls grapeseed because pure essential oils shouldn’t be put on bare skin). It comes in handy for so many things such as cuts, bruises, burns, sunburn, scars, abscess, open wounds, eczema, psoriasis, stress, nervous tension and much more. cont. overleaf
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A BRIEF HISTORY OF AROMATHERAPY
cont. from pg31
Aromatherapy dates back to 1539-657 BC when ancient Egyptians used oils daily as perfumes and beauty products, for ceremonial purposes, as well as for medicine and mummification. They would create perfume cones out of fat and fragrant botanic oils then place them on their heads at public gatherings. The cones would melt in the heat, which would not only help with the foul-smelling crowds but the botanic properties from the oils would also protect them against disease. Oils were so much part of ancient Egyptian culture that around 48 BC when Julius Caesar returned to Rome with Cleopatra, there was a lavish parade where bottles of perfume where thrown into the crowds to symbolise Egyptian ways. Consequently the use of oils developed over thousands of years and spread throughout the world to the Romans, Hebrews, Assyrians and Babylonians. It was studied by Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine, in 460-377 BC as well as by the Persian physician Ibn Sina, aka Avicenna, in 980-1037 AD. Ibn Sina was the first person to perfect steam distillation and as a result produced rose oil. In the Middle Ages, the Black Death, also known as the Bubonic Plague, wiped out millions of people across Europe, it was one of the most devastating pandemics in human history. Interestingly, workers in perfumeries and aromatics industries had a significantly lower infection rate, arguably due to the antiseptic and antiviral qualities of the oils they handled. Also, doctors of the time wore a ‘plague mask’ a longnosed, bird-like beak mask that was filled with dried flowers, herbs and spices. In 1910, French chemist René-Maurice Gattefossé worked in his family’s perfumery business and sought out to study the medicinal properties of essential oils. During one of his experiments there was an explosion in his laboratory, which covered his hands in burning substances. He rinsed them in lavender oil and noted that the healing effects possibly saved his life. He went on to experiment on WWI soldiers in military hospitals. Gattefossé is credited with coining the term ‘aromatherapy’ in his 1937 book, ‘Aromathérapie: Les Huiles essentielles hormones vegetales’. In 1977, the discoveries and recorded workings of Gattefossé and others inspired Englishman Robert Tisserand to publish the first English book on the subject entitled, ‘The Art of Aromatherapy’. His book is now the go-to reference for any aspiring aromatherapy practitioner.
BUYING ESSENTIAL OILS
To purchase essential oils and aromatherapy products in the UAE, here are some starting points: 1. Altearah Bio is a range of organic aromatherapy products available at Spadunya on The Walk, JBR. Altearah Bio is a 100 per cent certified award-winning organic range of spa and retail products produced in the South of France in Spadunya’s own ISO certified organic laboratory. The product range comprises 14 synergies of essential oils in wellbeing perfumes, face and body oils, serums, srubs, bath salts and room fragrances. www.spadunyaclub.com 2. Tisserand Essential Oils are distributed in the UAE by Super Nature LLC, to see the range, go to www.supernaturellc.com. They are available at Planet Nutrition Stores, Park & Shop Stores, Abela Superstore in Abu Dhabi, Balance Wellbeing, The Holistic Souq, and The Medilink Pharmacy in Arabian Ranches. Or buy online at www.holisticsouq.com and www.tisserand.com. 3. Neal’s Yard Remedies Essential Oils can be purchased at the Neal’s Yard outlets through out the UAE. For locations, go to www. nealsyardremedies.com/united-arab-emirates. 4. Essensuals Essential Oils can be purchased at Essensuals Holistic Training Institute, email sunita@theholisticinstitute.org or go to www. theholisticinstitute.org.
STUDY AROMATHERAPY UAE
In the UAE, you can do a beginner’s one-day course called Basic Aromatherapy – The Art of Blending with Sunita Teckchand, Dubai’s most well known Integrated Holistic Therapist. In this course, you will learn about the 10 most common organic essential oils, understand their properties and physical uses and how to blend them together. You will also learn some common diseases and how to make blends to tackle them. Cost: AED 1,800. To register, call Sunita on 050-657-5628 or email sunita@theholisticinstitute.org
STUDY AROMATHERAPY ONLINE
Naturally Thinking at www.naturallythinking.com Young Living at www.youngliving.com/en_US Aromahead Courses at www.aromahead.com/courses/online Nature’s Gift Online Courses at www.naturesgift.com/schools.htm
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Amber Gardner is a Dubai-based IFPA certified Holistic Aromatherapist. Email her on ambergardner321@gmail.com. SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2014
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Tried and tested:
Colour Harmonising Holistic Experience Colour and aromatherapy combine to make this massage and facial combo at Spadunya Club one of the most feel-good, rejuvenating spa treatments you’ll ever have. Review by Anne Brison. www.awakeningsme.com
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arning. This review may contain gratuitous gushing. I generally frown upon overuse of terms like ‘amazing’, ‘sublime’ and ‘blissful’ but I am now in danger of extreme gushing. This afternoon I went along to Spadunya Club on The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residences to try out their signature treatment, a 90-minute massage and facial called the Colour Harmonising Holistic Experience. It was… let me recall the technical terminology… ah yes, it was ‘absolutely a-freaking-mazing’. Having worked in the world of glossy magazines for many years now, I’ve been massaged and pampered at some of the best spas in the world. If I’ve had a massage and facial better than the one I had at Spadunya today, I don’t remember it.
COLOUR VIBRATION
It all started with a personal colour consultation with my therapist Evangeline. Basically, you’re shown 14 of the organic Altearah Bio colour swatches and you choose the four colours that first attract your eye. This process accesses your subconscious and gives the therapist clues about what you need for mind and body balance. The vibration of the colours chosen, as well as their corresponding aromas, match the vibration of your body and emotions. The first colour picked indicates what you need at that moment; the second colour reveals your deeper wellness need while the third colour shows what will help achieve that. The final colour indicates your future direction. Evangeline had my file notes and, spookily, the last time I had a colour consultation at Spadunya was the exact same date and month two years earlier. More spookily, the first three colours I chose were exactly the same as two years earlier, namely green, turquoise, and blue. “This shows you still really need more peace and serenity in your life,” said Evangeline, which is what turquoise and blue represent. Armed with this information about my mental and
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Made in the South of France, the organic Altearah Bio range combines the healing powers of colour and scent. The human body recognises the colour frequency through the cellular memory.
emotional state, Evangeline incorporated my chosen colours into the massage and facial treatment through the addition of scents and serums into the massage oils.
TRANSCENDENT
The next 90 minutes or so were a transcendent blur of, yes, I’m going to say it… bliss. You can always tell when a massage therapist really knows what they’re doing. A masseuse or masseur who understands the way muscles attach to joints and bones as well as how to manipulate the different directions and textures of muscle fibre is worlds apart from one who just rubs your body without any real idea of body and mind health. Evangeline knew what she was doing; she found the knots in my muscles and gently worked them out. I could almost hear my body purring beneath her skillful fingers particularly when she worked on my head and neck. There is something incredibly pleasurable about someone doing something as simple as holding the weight of your head and gently stretching your cervical spine. Then came the mini-facial using organic oils and serums such as the Fleur de Bach anti-stress cleanser, scrub and mask together with Altearah Bio serums for facial massage. The process involves hot towels to open pores before cleansing, scrubbing, a mask and moisturisers.
The gentle pressure of the massage along with essential oils applied on reflex points improves blood circulation and leaves you with a glowing complexion and relaxed body. All up, it left me feeling amazing and rejuvenated. As well, I thought I looked a hundred times better walking out of Spadunya than I had when I walked in a couple of hours earlier thanks to brighter eyes and tighter, smoother skin. To keep a more peaceful frame of mind, I bought a bottle of the turquoise Altearah Bio perfume to spray into my palms and inhale every day. The Colour Harmonising Holistic Experience is a signature treatment at Spadunya Club. A session lasts 90 minutes and costs AED 585. To book a treatment for yourself or a friend, call Spadunya Club on 04 439 3669, email info@spadunyaclub.com. The location is Shams 1, plaza level, The Walk at JBR. Other treatments at Spadunya Club include beauty care such as hair, nails, waxing and threading; body therapy including wraps, facials, massages, lymphatic drainage, reflexology; back and spine care such as the Dorn Method; Hammam experience; water therapy, and weight-loss therapy, which includes mesotherapy slimming, sauna pants for butt and body reshaping, and Endermologie lipomassage. www.spadunyaclub.com
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Grow your own balcony garden Just because you live in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t grow your own herbs, vegetables and flowers. Aspen Aman investigates balcony gardens in the UAE.
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or many people living in the UAE, their balcony or patio is either a great gathering place for friends and family or just another place to battle dust and dirt. But there’s another way to view, and use, your balcony or patio that brings beauty, tranquility, relaxation as well as food right into your home – by creating a garden in this often-neglected space. Gardening saves you money, provides organic food, is a meditative practise, and great for involving children.
Start Small, Grow Big
While gardening can seem intimidating to the newcomer, there are plants that are very forgiving to the novice gardener, including cherry tomatoes, mint and other green herbs as well as the hardy aloe vera. As veteran balcony gardener Smitha Lobo-Mascarenhas put it, “You can’t kill a mint!” Smitha, who has over 75 small and large plants on her 3.5m x 1.5m balcony in Karama, recommends starting out with kitchen herbs such as the hardy mint, fenugreek, coriander as well as onions, garlic and curry leaf. Scouring the produce section of local stores like Choithrams and Lulu, Smitha is constantly on the lookout for ginger, lemongrass, garlic, beetroot and the like that are sprouting. She recommends using the sprouting plants as an easy and inexpensive way to get starter plants for your balcony garden. Spices such as coriander and fenugreek – found in the spice aisle of your local supermarket – can also be made to sprout to produce seedlings for your own kitchen herbs. Laura Allais-Maré, founder of the Balcony and Urban Gardening in the UAE group, advocates keeping your gardening “sustainable” – by which she means reusing existing containers like yoghurt cups and water bottles for sprouting seeds and inexpensive potting soil mixtures (see sidebar ‘Laura’s Magic Potting Soil Mix’). “My garden may not be elegant,” Laura says, “because so many of my plants are growing in re-purposed yoghurt cups, but the plants are beautiful.” Passionately committed
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to growing good food and fostering awareness of the connection between the earth, people and food, Laura established the balcony gardening group upon her arrival in the UAE in 2013. The group now has nearly 300 gardener members, roughly split between experienced and new gardeners.
How and When to Start Your Balcony/Patio Garden
With temperate winter months and scorching summers, Dubai’s optimal growing season starts in October/ November, with plants thriving on patios and balconies January-early April. Karteeka Tayyagi, a balcony gardener for the past eight years, recommends starting with soil preparation in October/November. She suggests cleaning the pots/containers with a mild cleaning solution and drying them in the sun to kill any molds/funghi or other pathogens left from the previous growing season. Karteeka mixes her old soil with fresh potting soil, chicken manure pellets, humus and red sand. Both Karteeka and Smitha encourage beginners to work with seedlings or plants you already know before moving on to more exotic (and usually more expensive) plants. Karteeka recommends sprouting seeds indoors and repotting seedlings when the plant grows three sets of leaves. After seedlings are repotted, you can move them to your balcony or patio – paying close attention to wind and sun conditions. Morning sun, per Smitha’s experience here in Dubai, is best for young plants and most varities, as afternoon sun can be very harsh. Karteeka cites strong winds – as often come to high-rise balconies in areas like JLT or Old Town – as big challenges for balcony gardeners. As the plants grow and reach maturity, you can begin to harvest the herbs, vegetables and fruit you’ve planted. Many herbs thrive on multiple cuttings – especially mint – while some cont. overleaf
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awakenedhome cont. from pg37
veggies must be harvested at a particular time. As any devoted gardener will tell you, seeds are essential to maintaining your future stock of plants – so invest in quality, organic and non-GMO seeds to ensure the best possible variety of plants and to maintain biodiversity and heirloom varieties. As the summer months approach, it is time to cull the spent plants and move those that won’t survive the outdoor heat. Collect the soil from your containers and store in sealed plastic containers until the next growing season. (Microwaving soil is a great way to kill pathogens and return it to a soft texture, recommends Karteeka.) The keys to successful container gardening – either on your patio or balcony – comes down to a few essentials: appropriate amount/strength of sunlight, proper watering, pruning and love for your garden. The most common mistakes new gardeners make? Over-watering their plants and not being patient enough with their plants. Many varieties need plenty of time for their seeds to sprout and seedlings to grow; give your plants time and you’ll harvest the rewards. The Balcony and Urban Gardening in the UAE group meets once a month to swap seeds and seedlings, exchange tips and socialise; you can join this group to gain a valuable network of gardening gurus adept at creating bountiful, beautiful gardens in small spaces here in the UAE.
Where to get your gardening stuff
Warsan Nurseries – past Dragon Mart – is a large collection of nurseries staffed by very experienced nursery staff who can help you with seedlings, plants, soil, pots and more. Blue Planet Green People in JLT is another great source of organic seeds and gardening supplies. You can also create your own compost for your soil and collect your own seeds from the organic produce available at several organic shops and markets in Dubai.
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Plants for your summer balcony or patio With some good old TLC (tender, loving care), attention and proper watering, some varieties of plants do well – and actually thrive – in the intense UAE summer months on balconies and patios. Give these ones a try: Bougainvillea, Desert Rose (Adenium), Aloe Vera, Ixora, Mint, Jade Plant, Curry Leaf Plant (Murraya koenigii).
Expert Tips
Tip 1: Black pots will get extremely hot in the summer, so make sure you repot all of your plants into non-black pots. Plastic pots are better for plants outdoors in the summer as they retain water better than porous clay pots but each type of plant will have its specific requirements. Tip 2: Some plants have highly toxic parts. All parts of the Desert Rose and Oleander, for example, are highly toxic, so keep children and pets away from these plants. When in doubt, check for potential toxicity before adding new plants to your garden, if you have young children or inquisitive pets at home. Tip 3: Don’t water your plants in direct sun! Especially during the summer months because the wet leaves can actually burn and turn brown if wetted in direct, intense sunlight.
Laura’s Magic Potting Soil Mix • 60-70 per cent red desert sand (from interior desert, not the beach) • 25-35 per cent potting soil • 5-10 per cent organic material (chicken manure pellets, compost, etc.) For the sake of sustainability, don’t use peat. A non-renewable resource, peat is an ancient form of soil found only in limited parts of the world. Peat harvesting has had devastating ecological impact on the local biosphere. Some local gardeners use ‘coconut peat’ (aka coconut coir) as a mulch or component in your potting soil to help retain moisture.
Great gardening resources
There are literally thousands of gardening websites, videos and social media groups online. Gardeners at all levels will inspiration at www.plantcaretoday.com, which links to balcony/patio gardening projects like growing carrots in a bucket. To get tips on how to garden in Dubai’s climate, swap seeds and plants and just talk gardening with other balcony and patio gardeners here in the UAE, check out the Balcony and Urban Gardening in the UAE Facebook group (https://www.facebook. com/groups/B.G.G.Dubai/) and Expat Woman’s gardening pages (http://www. expatwoman.com/dubai/monthly_gardens_gardening.aspx) as well as Agriculture Box at www.agriculturebox.com.
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HOW GARDENING SAVES YOUR LIFE Most of us know that gardening is somehow good for us but let’s look at exactly how it can improve your life: Gardening saves your money. With easy-to-grow vegetables like tomatoes and herbs like basil and mint, you can save a bit on your grocery bill while knowing exactly where those veggies and herbs came from. As your skills increase, you can graduate to a wider variety of edibles that you can grow right on your own balcony or patio, thereby decreasing your food bill even more. As one community gardener put it, “growing your own food is like printing money!” Gardening saves your sanity. Gardening is both a wonderful solitary, meditative activity and a sociable way to meet new people and have fun with family and friends. The daily act of taking care of your plants and seedlings allows you to express your nuturing energies, while self-reflecting, problem-solving, and reconnecting to nature. Gardening saves your health. The act of planning, planting and caring for your plants can powerfully impact your health through the increased amount of exercise you get (even small gardens), reduction in stress hormones like cortisol, reduction in blood pressure and reduced risk from osteoporosis, diabetes and other modern ills. Studies conducted in the US revealed that women who gardened had overall lesser risk of osteoporosis than women who exercised through jogging, aerobics or swimming. Conditions as diverse as diabetes, depression, arthritis, insomnia and obesity have less severe symptoms or impact on individuals who garden regularly. Gardening saves your brain. In addition to the protection your brain gets through overall better health you gain from gardening, the brains of long-term gardeners are more resilient and less prone to dementia. Medical researchers following gardeners in their 60s and 70s for a period of 16 years found that these seniors had a 36 per cent and 47 per cent lower risk of dementia than their non-gardening peers. Gardening or being in gardens also seems to help individuals suffering from dementia and Alzheimers by providing them restful, natural surroundings in which they can connect and de-stress. Gardening saves your planet. When you eat what you grow, you’re eating the freshest food possible. No trucking or flying in those cherry tomatoes that grew on your patio. Gardening includes a whole cycle of practices that make us more mindful of the earth and our impact on it. Planting vegetables, herbs, flowers and trees creates an intimate connection between us and our planet – and makes us more aware of our overall impact upon the earth. Practices such as organic gardening reduce the amount of pesticides and chemical fertilisers loaded on to our ecosystem; composting our kitchen scraps (fruit/veggie skins, eggshells, coffee grounds and tea bags, to name a few) positively contributes to saving the planet by keeping biomass out of the landfills and returning it to revitalise the soil.
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Luxury
green cars
Luxury cars and the environment might be odd bedfellows but in the world of motoring it’s high-end cars like the Porsche 918 Spyder and the BMW i8 that are driving greener motoring technology. Adrian Maul reports on green engineering in premium vehicles.
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elieve it or not, the manufacturers of luxury supercars and high performance cars are spearheading much of the research and development that is resulting in more fuel-efficient vehicles on the world’s roads. A number of manufacturers have started to produce hybrid cars. This includes Porsche, BMW, Ferrari and McLaren. We’re not saying all of these manufacturers are motivated by a desire to tread more lightly on the planet – most of them just want to build faster cars that use less fuel but this mission has a happy by product. All of these manufacturers are using hybrid technology and energy recovery systems to boost their efficiency and performance, and eventually this technology filters into standard production cars for the rest of us. The eco statistics for the Porsche 918 and BMW i8 are exceptionally impressive and would be even in cars with only a fraction of their performance.
Porsche 918 Spyder
BMW i8
Green stats C02 emissions: 49g/km Fuel consumption: 2.1L/100km All electric range: 37km BMW have just released their new i8 in the UAE, not quite a supercar but very pretty and fairly quick all the same. BMW have gone a different route from most of the high end manufactures in that they have used a very small engine at 1.5l 3 cylinder in their hybrid offering coupled with twin turbo chargers. This is coupled to a 96kW motor to give a combined power of over 350 bhp. This is also a plug-in hybrid and battery life is preserved using brake energy regeneration technology to top up the battery whilst braking and coasting. This car can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmh in 4.4s, has CO2 emission of just 49g/km and an impressive fuel consumption of 2.1l/100km. The all electric range for this car is 37km. BMW have pulled out the stops here and produced a car that I think is beautiful to look at, is plenty fast enough and has stunning eco friendly statistics.
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Green stats C02 emissions: 79g/km Fuel consumption: 3L/100km All electric range: 29km Porsche have been making modern hybrid cars for a few years now, and the hybrid Panamera S has been featured in previous issues of this magazine for its eco-friendly statistics. The hybrid Panamera S has a new sibling though, the 918 Spyder, a hybrid supercar with a 4.6l V8 engine combined with a 115kW electric motor. Lets face it though, this is a supercar and the technology in this car is primarily there to make it go faster, the upside of this is that as a result it is also easier on the environment due to its lightness plus the fact that it uses plug-in hybrid technology and energy recovery systems. The statistics for this car are 0-100 kmh in 2.6s, CO2 emissions of 79g/ km, average fuel consumption of 3l/100km and an all electric range of 29km. This car also currently has the record as the third fastest lap time for a production car at the Nurburgring race track of six minutes 57 seconds, beaten only by two variants of the Radical SR8 British sports car.
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McLaren P1
LaFerrari
Green stats C02 emissions: 330g/km Fuel consumption: 14.2L/100km All electric range: None Ferrari have brought their LaFerrari offering to the table. This is all supercar and has no pretentions of trying to help the environment. A 6.3l V12 engine is coupled with a 120kW motor produces a staggering combined power of 950 bhp. This car uses all of its technology for power and speed and therefore does not perform nearly as well as the other offerings on the environmental side, its electric motor is purely a device to boost the power delivered to the wheels, and it has no capability to drive solely with its electric motor. It accelerates from 0 to 100 kmh in under three seconds, has CO2 emissions of 330g/km, fuel consumption of 14.2l/100km and an all electric range of 0km. The technology in this car should not be discounted though as it uses energy recovery technology, and the technology of using an electric motor to boost power can be used by other manufacturers to reduce engine size subsequently reducing consumption and emissions figures for their cars.
ECO-MOTORING NEWS Bentley goes electric
By 2017, Bentley plans to be joining the hybrid club with its first plug-in hybrid model, a dedicated version of the all-new SUV. The Bentley Hybrid Concept was launched at the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition in April. The new Bentley Hybrid Concept car.
Green stats C02 emissions: 194g/km Fuel consumption: 6.9L/100km All electric range: None The all new McLaren P1 was described by Jeremy Clarkson on motoring television show Top Gear UK as a “game changer” due to the way that it uses technology to boost its performance. The P1 has a 3.8l twin turbocharged V8 engine coupled to a 131kW electric motor to give a combined power output of 903 bhp. It uses similar technology to the other cars here using extremely lightweight materials in its construction; the windscreen is only 3.2mm thick and made of acrylic which repels water meaning it does not require the weight or drag of windscreen wipers. The energy recovery system in the P1 is called Instant Power Access System (IPAS) and is capable of giving twice the power that the old F1 KERS system produced, and all packaged in an extremely light 26kg electric motor. So Mclaren brings lightness technology seriously to the table, its statistics are fairly good too with 0 to 100km of 2.8 seconds, slower than the Porsche 918 but it is faster to 200 kmh than it, CO2 emissions of 194 g/km and fuel consumption of 6.9l/100km.
Dr Wolfgang Schreiber, Chairman and Chief Executive of Bentley Motors, said: “There is no doubt that plug-in hybrid technology is true to Bentley’s values of outstanding luxury and effortless performance. Combining our renowned engines with electric power reinforces and enhances both principles, and so we will gradually introduce this powertrain across our model range. By the end of the decade, at least 90 per cent of our production will be available as a plug-in hybrid. We are proud to be pioneering these developments in the luxury sector.”
Green Cadillac
“Honey I just wonder what you do there in back of your green Cadillac…” That’s right, even iconic US brand Cadillac are going electric with the launch of the 2014 ELR, a luxury coupe.
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Bali Healing A visit to some of Bali’s best healing retreats. By Kaya Peters.
B
ali, the Island of the Gods, has long been one of the world’s top travel destinations. With the lively town Ubud at its cultural centre, the Indonesian island has a particular pull for those seeking healing and spiritual growth. Its community of wellbeing enthusiasts, the lush jungle-like surroundings and its abundance of health food restaurants, yoga studios and healing centres, make the wellknown town and its neighbouring villages, a must-visit for anyone looking to improve their physical, mental and spiritual health.
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DESTINATION 1: VILLA GAIA, A DETOX HOME AWAY FROM HOME
A peaceful oasis located just a few kilometres from Ubud’s busy town centre, Villa Gaia runs group Yoga and Raw Food Retreats several times a year while the remaining time is used to facilitate private and family tailor-made detox retreats. Overlooking the rice fields, the villa has seven beautifully decorated bedrooms, a private spa with infrared sauna, a cosy dining area and a salt-water infinity pool. The loving attention of the well-trained staff and home-style setting of the villa create a pleasant ambiance and are a great support in making those on a program feel totally at ease. A unique feature of this retreat is the in-house herbalist Gabrielle Schultz, who provides consultations at the beginning of every program and tailor makes herbal drinks to the health needs of each guest. Regular detox weeks at the villa consist of herbal jamus, green juices and smoothies and raw food if requested. Supplemented by oxygen therapy, massage treatments, emotional healing sessions, Yoga, breathwork and daily use of the infrared sauna, this program is guaranteed to bring on increased energy levels, weight-loss and general health improvement. In addition, Villa Gaia is linked to Gaia Holistic Centre, where guests can have colonic hydrotherapy and Traditional Chinese Medicine sessions, amongst other treatments for body, mind and soul.
DESTINATION 2: ONEWORLD RETREATS, YOGA FROM THE HEART
The signature, six-day ‘Escape the World’ retreat run by ONEWORLD Retreats offers the beginning yoga practitioner a dynamic program of quality yoga classes, Balinese culture and a community experience. The two daily yoga sessions, led by passionate teachers Iyan Yaspriyana and his assistant Wayan Partawan, are an energising combination between conscious breathing techniques, strengthening postures, restorative sessions and guided relaxation. In between yoga sessions, guests are pampered with treatments of choice in the in-house spa or in the privacy of their own en-suite rooms. The program is supplemented with several supporting activities, like yoga at
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sunrise behind the volcano Batur and a purification ceremony with a Balinese priest at the Tirta Empul, a holy water temple. Meals are healthy and delicious, carefully planned based on the food preferences of each individual participant. The retreat is very well organized and the team’s dedication to delivering something of value touches the heart of many practitioners who join Iyan and Wayan in this six-day Worldy Escape. This retreat is highly recommended for those who are beginning Yoga practitioners, love to learn about Bali’s beautiful culture and have a love for delicous food with a healthy touch. More information can be found on www.oneworldretreats.com
Kaya Peters provides private tailormade detox retreats at Villa Gaia. Go to www.kayapetersretreats.com for more information and bookings. More information about all the programs at Villa Gaia can be found at www.gaia-holistic.com.
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awakenedtravel cont. from pg43
HEALING ‘MUST DO’S IN UBUD:
w HAVE A HEALTHY BREKKIE AT ATMAN KAFE: Located on Jl. Hanuman, this cafe serves some of the best organic coffee in town. Some breakfast favourites are the poached eggs on gluten-free bread with avo-feta mash, or the grain-free porridge served with coconut milk.
DESTINATION 3: FIVELEMENTS, HEALING IN STYLE
Set against the backdrop of the sacred river Ayung, the beautiful Balinese decor of Fivelements, Puri Ahimsa is the ultimate place to experience wellness of it’s highest class. Founded upon Balinese healing traditions and supported by a specialised cuisine of high vibe living foods, this one-of-a-kind boutique retreat offers a series of wellness and detox programs designed to support their guests in a love-filled life transformation. Guided by Balinese Philosophies, Fivelements aims to share the Balinese way of life, nurturing a greater harmony with spirit, the environment and one another. The resort has nine suites, five of which are named after each of the elements in the Balinese language: Pertiwi (earth), Apah (water), Teja (fire), Bayu (air) and Akasa (ether). Decors of each room are carefully picked in harmony with nature; outdoor open-air bathtubs, wooden elements, hand-woven fabrics, and the mesmerising sounds of the flowing river, provide the perfect space for pure relaxation and a deep healing experience.
The retreat offers an extensive menu of beauty rituals and healing treatments, which take place in the exclusive Spa rooms with view on the river. Sessions begin with a signature foot- bath ritual and close with a healing tea offering, while performed by skilled Balinese therapists and healers. Fivelements Sakti Dining Room, serves gourmet vegan and raw living foods according to the highest culinary standards. Signature dishes like the Raw Zuccchini Pappardelle Alfredo and a homemade assortment of raw chocolates, add a whole new dimension to the concept of detoxing. Granted several well-known awards in the field of luxury spa and wellness travel, Fivelements, Puri Ahimsa suits those on a healing journey with a need for aesthethic excellence, ultimate comfort, and true healing from the heart.
w TREAT YOURSELF TO POWERFUL GEMSTONE JEWELLERY AT ANANDA SOUL CREATIONS: Find out your unique healing stone on founder Christina’s website and receive a free affirmation to support you in living your dreams. Alternatively just visit one of the shops in Ubud’s town center. More info can be found on www.anandasoulcreations.com.
More information can be found on www.fivelements.org
Kaya Peters is a Dubai-based yoga teacher and holistic coach, to find out more about workshops and coaching with Kaya in the UAE and Bali, go to www.privateyogaindubai.com and www.kayapetersretreats.com or call +971 56 212 5878.
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w GET PURIFIED AT THE TIRTA EMPUL: One of the most famous holy water temples in Bali. Make sure to go early in the morning or late at night, to avoid large volumes of tourists. It’s preferable to be guided by someone who knows the bathing ritual and can instruct you on what to do and what to wear.
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From healing waters to edible flowers, Jan D’Sa reveals Taiwan’s hot springs and eco farms. TAIWAN – THE HOT SPRING KINGDOM
One of the world’s top sites for hot springs, more than 100 have been discovered across Taiwan in a variety of locations including plains, valleys, mountains and oceans. It’s believed in Asia that these waters possess therapeutic properties said to have a positive effect on disorders of the nervous and digestive systems, the circulation, and the organs. The reason Taiwan has a lot more than its fair share of these magical water pools is thanks to the country’s earthquake activity. Taiwan is located next to an oceanic trench and volcanic system in a tectonic collision zone. The country also has cold springs, mud springs, and seabed hot springs. The springs are formed by natural waters deep below the surface of the earth, so when they gurgle up to the surface, they are loaded with minerals that are good for the body’s health. The properties of hot springs are determined by the chemical concentration and the water temperature. For example, the hot springs in Yi-Lan county are rich in carbon, sodium, calcium, potassium and carbonic ions. The hot springs in the Nantou county are composed of carbonic acid. Hotels displaying a ‘licenced hot springs’ sign show their springs are certified by the local county government. Prices for entering a hot spring bath vary hugely, ranging from NT$150 (AED 18) for public baths to NT$6000 (AED 730) for five-star hot spring hotels, including accommodation. For more information on Taiwan’s unique hot springs as well as map of their locations, go to http://eng.taiwan.net.tw.
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Taiwan’s healing waters Communal open air hot springs bath at Hotel Royal Chiao His, Yi-Lan County, Taiwan. Photo courtesy of Hotel Royal Chiao His.
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TAI-YI ECOLOGICAL LEISURE FARM, NANTOU COUNTY
Bees on a flower at the Tai-Yi Ecological Farm.
Flowers and sprouts seaweed wraps at Tai-Yi. Dishes using the freshest ingredients from the Shangri La Ecological Farm On the Tai-Yi. Photos on this page courtesy of Taiwan Leisure Farms Development.
The first eco-leisure farm I visited was in the Nantou County, Central Taiwan, home to the famous cycling routes winding through the Sun Moon Lake area. It was at Tai-Yi that I had my first experience of eating edible flowers and drinking honey pollen water. My hotel was the Tai-Yi Red Maple Boutique Resort, close to the farm. A resort surrounded by 13 hectares of gardens and pools. Dinner was a ten-course set meal featuring seafood dishes such as eel rice and garlic spiced calamari slivers. The seafood was sourced from the nearby Taichung fishing harbour. A stand-out appetiser was the seaweed wrap filled with fresh sprouts and edible flowers such as begonia and Chinese globeflower. The red variety of begonia contains vitamin C and antioxidants such as anthocyanins and lycopene. The meal was accompanied by endless rounds of Mount Lemmon marigold tea. The next day, after a breakfast of Assam tea eggs and local dishes, I headed to the tropical rainforest garden nearby that was filled with lilies and ferns. There were flowers everywhere I looked. Taiwan celebrates nineteen Flower Festivals on its eco farms and national parks through the year. For more information on the Tai Yi Ecological Farm go to www.taii.com.tw. Also see Taiwan Leisure Farms Development Association at www.taiwanfarm.org.tw.
SHANGRI LA ECOLOGICAL LEISURE FARM, YI-LAN COUNTY
Located on the east coast of Taiwan, overlooking the Pacific ocean, Yi-Lan is on Mount Dayuan at 250 meters above sea level. I arrived at the farm just before sunset and was greeted by a line of sakura trees in full blossom and fireflies that are
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nurtured on the farm. During the day, whilst eco-touring around the farm’s nature trail, you can see the Moltrechtis green tree frog, the Latouche’s frog, Swinhoe’s frog and butterflies. Over dinner that evening, I met Chang Ching-Lai, the man said to be Taiwan’s father of agriculture. He owns the 960 acres of Shangri La eco-farm and the 720,000 square foot resort hotel called the Shangri La Boutique Hotel. He gave up his civil servant job decades ago to make his new bride’s dream of having her own home in the midst of nature, a reality. Blending his business acumen with the needs of the agriculture and eco-tourism industry, he built the farm that now boasts huge plantations of kumquat, carambola, orange, guava, tangerine and apple. For exploring beyond the farm, there are several hiking trails and cycling routes extending to the lakes and waterfalls. I also met a nutritionist who runs detox programs that comprise toxin analysis and dietary advice. He said that apart from fruit picking and DIY activities such as making sky lanterns, the farm was a great place to detox amidst nature’s bliss. I stayed the night at the awardwinning Japanese-themed Hotel Royal Chiao Hsi, sister hotel of the five-star Hotel Royal-Nikko Taipei. Apart from the private hot springs, there are eight private aromatic spring houses, an open air bath and an aqua-therapy bath. Nearby recreation spots include nine themed gardens, Wu-Fonchi waterfalls, Turtle islands and a golf course. For more information about the Shangri La Ecological Leisure Farm, go to www.shangrilas.com.tw. Jan D’Sa is a medical writer, a mixed media artist-designer. She hosts group and corporate workshops on claiming your creative powers. Email info@ jandsamedia.com for more information or visit www.travelartslife.com.
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Retail
therapy B’atude organic skincare
B’atude stands for Beautiful Attitude and it’s the name of a new brand of organic luxury skincare committed to the values that more people are demanding from the products they buy, namely, nothing that harms people, animals or the planet. Originally from Germany, the B’atude brand strictly avoids harmful and synthesized ingredients and uses only widely tested natural products chosen for their effectiveness. The range includes a Rejuvenating Day Cream, Regenerating Night Cream, Revitafirm Organic Mask, Soothing Foam Cleanser and Toner, Eye Contour Cream, Exfoliating Organic Scrub, and Exfoliating Body Scrub.
B’atude Rejuvenating Day Cream
Green tea and Argan oil nourish the skin while smoothing, moisturising and maintaining elasticity. This cream is suitable for all skin types and also serves as an excellent base for long-lasting make-up. Contains Antarcticine, a cryo defender for restructuring and anti-wrinkle; organic green tea, an antioxidant and anti-agent; organic Argan oil with omega 6, which lends elasticity to the skin. Buy it: Prices for B’atude products range from AED 100 to 200. Available at Holland & Barrett stores (see page 27 for UAE store locations and phone numbers). www.facebook.com/Batudebrand
othing foam o s e d u t ’a b WIN WIN one of five bottles of B’atude organic Soothing Foam Cleanser and Toner, a light foam with extracts from six plants for soap-free cleansing. A horsetail astringent with ginseng cleanses and tones the skin. Hamamelis, calendula and rose extracts soothe skin. Glycerin hydrates and green tea protects. Leaves skin clear, healthy, calm and oxygenated. To be in to win a bottle, just tell us what two words the name B’atude came from? (Hint, the answer is on this page). Email your answer to win@awakeningsme.com - don’t forget to put ‘B’atude competition’ in the subject line. Include your name, mobile number and email address. Competition is only open to residents of the UAE. Good luck!
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awakenedlifestyle
RAW VEGAN PROTEIN SHAKE, LEAN95 NOUGAT NATURALS BATH AND BODY COLLECTION Nougat London has launched its in bath, skincare and well-being range, Nougat Naturals, in the UAE. The entire range is free from parabens, sulphates, petrochemicals and minerals. Combining natural aromatherapy essences; Nougat Naturals comprises natural ingredients such as Argan Oil and Shea Butter to seaweed and Aloe Vera; the collection centres around two essential oil blends – one that uplifts and revives and the other that calms and relaxes. The range includes Moisturizing Shower Gel, Hydrating Body Lotion, Nourishing Hand Cream, Refining Body Scrub, and Intensive Body Oil plus a Travel Set, a Hydrating Body Care Set and a Hand Cream Duo. Nougat Naturals Nourishing Hand Cream includes almond oil, borage oil, seaweed and cucumber extracts that repairs and rehydrates even the driest of skin.
Buy it: Prices range from AED 74 to AED 186. Available in the UAE at Jashanmal Home Stores in Dubai Mall, Dubai Festival City, Al Ghurair and Abu Dhabi Mall. At Milk & Honey in Emirates Hills Town Center 1 and in Palm Jumeriah Shoreline Building 10. Also O Concept Jumeriah 1, and Sparkle 360 in Mirdiff.
Devised by Dubai’s very own Wellness Brothers, Sean and Ryan Penny, LEAN95 is a raw, vegan, organic blend of spirulina, maca, brown rice, and luralean. It provides a hefty dose of protein, vitamins, minerals, and fibre. It’s extremely low in calories, making it great for weight-loss and is fuel for your body before and after exercise. By mixing LEAN95 with water from another superfood – coconut - you can create a pre and post-workout drink to replenish electrolytes and supply quality amino acids for healthy growth and repair of your muscles. Buy it: AED 250 for a 630gm container at Holland & Barrett stores (see page 29 for UAE store locations and phone numbers). There are 42 scoops per container and flavours are choc-mint, coconut, honey, and cinnamon.
IZIL NATURAL ARGAN BEAUTY MULTI-PURPOSE ARGAN OIL Containing 100 per cent pure Argan oil, Izil Natural Argan Beauty’s Multi-purpose Argan Oil is perfect to use on the face for anti-aging, the body for dryness, on blemishes and stretch marks, and also for repairing damaged hair. It is 100 per cent organic, chemical-free and has a very high concentration of vitamin E, antioxidants, carotenoids and fatty acids including Omega 3, 6 and 9. Here are six ways that Argan Oil can help your skin, hair and body: A nourishing facial moisturiser, it improves your skin’s vitality and elasticity. Good for pregnant women wanting to reduce stretch marks. It treats acne and pimples, and over time, can even remove unsightly acne scars. Cools and soothes sunburn when applied liberally to burnt areas as well as relieves eczema and psoriasis can be relieved with Argan oil. An anti-dryness treatment for hair. Lather the pure oil in your damp hair, leave overnight to soak in and work its magic. When combined with a dash of lemon juice, Argan Oil becomes a fantastic nail strengthener and encourages nail growth. When used regularly, Argan oil will brighten and condition all tattoos and body art. Buy it: AED 180 from the Izil Natural Argan Beauty stores in Dubai Festival City and Madinat Jumeirah. www.izilbeauty.com
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VOUCHERS
We heart therapists! Want to try a few new things without laying down loads of cash? The UAE has an army of amazing of alternative healers, complementary therapists, yoga and Pilates teachers, exercise and fitness experts, diet and nutrition specialists... and more all helping people transform their lives. This page is where you get to hear about them and bag a discounted deal through an Awakenings ‘We heart therapists’ voucher. Do you have a service that you’d like to offer for a discounted rate through an Awakenings ‘We Heart Therapists’ voucher? To get your voucher in the next issue of Awakenings magazine, email tamara@awakeningsme.com for a rates pack.
25 %
Evelin Novikova ThetaHealing® Sessions
25 per cent off a session for ThetaHealing discount! with certified ThetaHealer® Evelin Novikova. Normally AED 400, this voucher gets you this for AED 300! To book, email Evelin@thetahealingsessions.com or call +971 55 947 3697
www.thetahealingsessions.com
Valid till 1 March 2015
20 %
Look younger with this anti-aging treatment by Specialist Acupuncturist discount! Dr. Alireza Najafi Germi, an acupuncture facelift plus Jasmin organic facial. Normally AED 5,000 for a package of 10 sessions, the Awakenings price with this voucher is AED 3,500. To book, call Breath and Health Alternative Medical Centre 04 348 9940, 050 534 8267 Valid to 1 December 2014. New clients only.
www.breathandhealth.net
Terms and conditions: Offer only available to new clients. Voucher expires 1 December 2014.
Alexandra Salkova Inner Self Consultancy 50 per cent off a session for Hypnotherapy, Positive Psychology, EET and NLP coaching with Alexandra Salkova at Inner Self Consultancy. To book, email Alexandra@innerselfconsultancy.com
Terms and conditions: Offer only available to new clients. Voucher expires 1 December 2014.
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Valid till 1 December 2014
20 %
Acupuncture
Acupuncture sessions with Specialist Acupuncturist Dr. Alireza Najafi Germi. discount! Suitable for stress, pain, immune system booster, detox, men and women’s health, etc Regular price per session: AED 350.00 Awakenings price with this voucher: AED 280.00 To book, call Breath and Health Alternative Medical Centre 04 3489940, 050 534 8267 Valid to 1 December 2014. New clients only.
www.breathandhealth.net
Terms and conditions: Offer only available to new clients. Voucher expires 1 December2014.
50 %
discount!
www.innerselfconsultancy.com
Valid till 1 December 2014
NLP Practitioner and Master Hypnotherapist discount! offers Holistic life coaching to realise your full potential at work, home, or socialising or to achieve that lifetime goal. Offer: Free consultation plus 4 x 1 hour sessions for just AED 1000. For a free, nostrings consultation contact Adrian on: 056 676 9483 or email adrian@awakeningsme.com
Terms and conditions: Offer only available to new clients. Offer is limited to 10 people. Voucher expires 1 December 2014 or when all packages are sold.
Terms and conditions: Offer only available to new clients for their first session only. Voucher is valid until 1 March 2015.
Acupuncture Facelift
50 %
Awakened Potential
Awaken Your Mind, Realise Your Potential
Gong bath meditation
50 %
50 per cent off when you head discount! along for a gong bath meditation at The Gong House. Normally AED 100, with this voucher you can try it out for just AED 50. To book your session, call Aspen Aman on 050 873 3545 or email aspenyemen@yahoo.com Valid till 1 December 2014
Terms and conditions: Offer only available to new clients for their first session only. Voucher expires 1 December 2014.
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listings
UAE listings
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Alternative, complementary and holistic products and services available in the UAE. ACCESS CONSCIOUSNESS (BARS)
SJB Wellbeing Healing sessions and workshops to become a certified Access Bars Practitioner. Release old beliefs, patterns, behaviours, judgements. T: 050 6847410 E: sharon@sjbewellbeing.com www.sjbwellbeing.com Melany Oliver Release unhelpful judgement, beliefs and perceptions. Private healing sessions as well as classes to become a certified Access Bars practitioner. T: 050 794 7695 E: olivermelany@gmail.com www.melanyoliver.com
ACUPUNCTURE
Dr. Alireza Najafi Germi T.C.M.D/ Specialist Acupuncturist (Canada) working out of the Breath and Health Alternative Medical Centre. Treatments include Acupuncture Facial. T: 04 3489940, 050-5348267 www.breathandhealth.net The Chiron Clinic Traditional Chinese Medicine treatments, including acupuncture, Chinese herbals and cupping. Dr. Wang Ping specializes in fertility, hormonal & pregnancy complaints, musculoskeletal injuries, and stress. The Chiron Clinic also offers treatments for weight loss, detoxification, allergy screens & desensitization, anxiety, depression, gastrointestinal complaints, skin problems, using natural & complementary medicine. 160 2D St. Al Bada’a/Jumeirah 1 (Behind Life Pharmacy), Dubai T: 04 349 7444 E: info@thechironclinic.com www.facebook.com/TheChironClinic Dubai Mall Medical Centre Complementary and alternative medicine with Naturopathic Medicine Practioner Dr Heather Eade. 7th Floor, Dubai Mall. T: 04 449 5111 www.tdmmc.ae Beijing Tong Ren Tang Traditional Chinese Medicine Clinic offering acupuncture, cupping, therapeutic massage. T: O4 349 8188 www.trtgulf.com Dubai Herbal & Treatment Centre Conventional (allopathic), complementary and alternative medicine plus wellness treatments. Ayurveda, Beauty, Gynaecology, Homeopathy, Nutrition, Psychology, Traditional Chinese Medicine. Za’abeel, Oud Metha Rd. T: 04 335 1200 E: admin@dubaihtc.com www.dubaihtc.com
Dubai Physiotherapy & Family Medicine Clinic Comprehensive family medicine and physiotherapy. 1st Floor, Town Centre Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Road. T: 04 349 6333 www.dxbphysio.com Holistic Healing Medical Centre Eastern and western medicines. Ayurveda, acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy and Homeopathy. Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 3. E: doctor@healthholistic.com T: 04 348 7172 www.healthholistic.com Synergy Integrated Medical Centre A clinical acupuncturist, Martine (Dip. AC clin. Ac (China) Certificate in Paediatric Acupuncture) specialises in fertility, pregnancy and post-natal treatments. She uses a combination of traditional Chinese therapies including acupuncture, massage, cupping and moxibustion. E: synergy8@eim.ae T: 04 348 5452 www.synergyctrdubai.com Wellbeing Medical Centre Complementary conventional and alternative health care, cosmetic surgery. T: +971 4 348 4406 E: info@wellbeingmedicalcentre.com www.wellbeingmedicalcentre.com
ALTERNATIVE MEDICAL CENTRES & CLINICS
Aura Alternative Medicine Centre Three kinds of treatment Ayurvedic medicines, diet and lifestyle management and Panchakarma for detox, rejuvenating and relaxing. Office 201, Al Faisal 1, CBI Bank Building, King Faisal Road, Sharjah. E: info@aurahealth.ae T: 06 575 7001 www.aurahealth.ae Breath & Health Alternative Medical Centre Dubai’s premier wellness centre offers cupping, ear candling, Aromatherapy Massage, Ayurveda, Colon Hydrotherapy Cupping Therapy & Hijama, Diet & Nutrition, Ear Coning & Candling, Electromagnetic Wave Therapy, Hair care (Organic), Play & Creative Arts Therapy Pranic Healing, Quantum Biofeedback Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Stress Management, Tai Chi, Thai Massage & Therapeutic Stretching, Unani Yoga & Fitness. Villa 1080, Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 2. E: hello@breathandhealth.net T: 04 348 9940 OUR www.breathandhealth.net K! PIC
The Chiron Clinic A complementary and alternative medical clinic, the Chiron Clinic treats the ‘whole’ individual. Services on offer include anthropsophical medicine, homeopathy, clinical nutrition, herbal medicines,
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acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine (see below), spinal alignment, counseling/coaching, hydrotherapy, detoxification, and infrared-sauna therapy, to treat a wide array of family health concerns including; eczema and other skin complaints, autism/ADHD, anxiety/depression, digestive complaints, hormonal issues, migraine/tension headaches, insomnia, allergies, low immunity, ear infections, asthma, and joint & back pain. We also offer allergy screening, and a wide array of functional testing. Dr. Lanalle & Dr. Amel are NorthAmerican Board Certified Naturopathic Doctors. Open Saturday-Thursday 8:30-8:30. 160 2D St. Al Bada’a/Jumeirah 1 (Behind Life Pharmacy) T: 04 349 7444 E: info@thechironclinic.com www.facebook.com/TheChironClinic Dubai Herbal & Treatment Centre Conventional (allopathic), complementary and alternative medicine plus wellness treatments. Ayurveda, Beauty, Gynaecology, Homeopathy, Nutrition, Psychology, Traditional Chinese Medicine. Za’abeel, Oud Metha Rd. E: admin@dubaihtc.com T: 04 335 1200 www.dubaihtc.com Dubai Mall Medical Centre Complementary and alternative medicine with Naturopathic Medicine Practioner Dr Heather Eade. 7th Floor, Dubai Mall, Downtown. T: 04 449 5111 www.tdmmc.ae Holistic Healing Medical Centre Eastern and western medicines. Ayurveda, acupuncture, colon hydrotherapy and Homeopathy. Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 3. E: doctor@healthholistic.com T: 04 348 7172 www.healthholistic.com Dr Parviz Rashvand, Synergy Integrated Medical Centre Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, Dr Parviz combines natural modalities and specialises in cancer, MS, autism and other severe auto-immune and degenerative conditions. E: synergy8@eim.ae T: 04 348 5452 www.synergyctrdubai.com Wellbeing Medical Centre Complementary conventional and alternative health care, cosmetic surgery and laser treatments. Jumeirah 3. T: +971 4 348 4406 E: info@wellbeingmedicalcentre.com www.wellbeingmedicalcentre.com
ANGEL THERAPY
Angel Messages by Stella Angel therapy, intuitive guidance and more.
T: +971 50 8703639 E: stella@angelmessagesbystella.com www.angelmessagesbystella.com Angels of Light Founders Terri and Buddy are certified Angel Therapy Practitioners from the Diana Cooper School of Angels, and Angel Crystal Healers. E: angels@angelsoflightonline.com T: 050 655 4814 www.angelsoflightonline.com
AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE
Spadunya Club Award-winning holistic and wellness spa for women using the 100 per cent organic, French colour therapy spa range called Altearah Bio in holistic vibrational and energetic treatments. Hammam, hydrotherapy, beauty room and steam, sauna and showers. [See also Colour Therapy, Beauty, and Yoga & Fitness] Shams 1, The Walk at JBR, Plaza Level. E: info@spadunyaclub.com T: +971 4 439 3669 www.spadunyaclub.com Organic Glow Beauty Lounge Eco-friendly, organic salon. Organic hair treatments, ammonia-free colour, aromatherapy massage, formaldehydefree mani-pedis, fresh fruit facials, homemade scrubs and more. Stocks Simply Organic products for purchase. E: eco_lounge@yahoo.com T: 04 380 4666 www.organicglowuae.com
ASTROLOGY
Third Eye Centre Miyan is a Jyotish Maharishi (PhD equivalent research degree in Vedic Astrology) and holds a DMA (Diploma in Medieval Astrology). Private readings and group workshops. E: info@thirdeyeonline.com T: 04 326 6539 www.thirdeyeonline.com Vedic Astrologer & Numerologist, Lalit Soonderji Private readings and group workshops E: info@illuminationsworld.com T: 04 448 7043 www.illuminationsworld.com
AYURVEDA
Aura Alternative Medicine Centre Three kinds of treatment Ayurvedic medicines, diet and lifestyle management and Panchakarma for detox, rejuvenating and relaxing. Office 201, Al Faisal 1, CBI Bank Building, King Faisal Road, Sharjah E: info@aurahealth.ae T: 06 575 7001 www.aurahealth.ae Balance Wellness Centre, Ayurvedic Dr Chandy George Ayurvedic assessments and wide range of wellness services, organic and ayurvedic therapies, energy healing. Third floor, Oasis Centre
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listings
E: chandy.george@cplmg.com T: 04 5151 4051 www.balance-wellness-centre
locations: Fatouh al Khair Mall (02 628 9044) and Al Wahda Mall extension, unit OUR E239 Second Floor ! K www.nealsyardremedies.ae PIC
Breath & Health Alternative Medical Centre Dubai’s premier wellness centre offers cupping, ear candling, Aromatherapy Massage, Ayurveda, Colon Hydrotherapy Cupping Therapy & Hijama, Diet & Nutrition, Ear Coning & Candling, Electromagnetic Wave Therapy, Hair care (Organic), Play & Creative Arts Therapy Pranic Healing, Quantum Biofeedback Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, Stress Management, Tai Chi, Thai Massage & Therapeutic Stretching, Unani Yoga & Fitness. Villa 1080, Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 2. E: hello@breathandhealth.net T: 04 348 9940 www.breathandhealth.net
Dubai Herbal & Treatment Centre Conventional (allopathic), complementary and alternative medicine plus wellness treatments. Ayurveda, Beauty, Gynaecology, Homeopathy, Nutrition, Psychology, Traditional Chinese Medicine. Za’abeel, Oud Metha Rd. E: admin@dubaihtc.com T: 04 335 1200 www.dubaihtc.com
BEAUTY & ORGANIC COSMETICS
Katrina Valente Holistics A facial therapist and holistic aesthetician/healer with more than 20 years experience in the beauty industry E: Katrina@katrinavalente.com T: 050 565 7679 ww.katrinavalente.com Tanamera 100% natural hair and body care products from earth-friendly ingredients not tested on animals. Outlets in MOE, Deira City Centre, and Dubai Mall in Dubai. Al Wahda Mall in Abu Dhabi. E: info@spret-me.com T:04 399 0422 www.tanamera.ae Organic Glow Beauty Lounge Eco-friendly salon offering organic treatments. E: eco_lounge@yahoo.com T: 04 380 4666 www.organicglowuae.com Snowberry Organic Cosmetics Available at Spadunya Club, Shams 1, The Walk at JBR, Plaza Level. E: info@spadunyaclub.com T: +971 4 439 3669 www.spadunyaclub.com Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic Natural Health and Beauty. Dubai locations: Wafi Mall, Sun, Level 1 (04 324 5141); The Dubai Mall, Level 1 near Nayomi (04 325 3154); Dubai Marina Mall (050 189 3191); Town Centre Springs. Sharjah locations: Sahara Centre, Sharjah (06 554 6702) Abu Dhabi
Organic Supermarket and Café Stocks organic skincare and cosmetics. www.organicfoodsandcafe.com Herbline Essentials Ayurvedic face, body, hair, acne and slimming treatments made from natural ingredients sourced in the Himalayas. Available through Namshi.com and Mumzworld.com, UAE pharmacies including Boots, Bin Sina, Health First and United Pharmacies. www.natural.ae Aromera - Martina Hakim Organic skin care and Happiness Coach, Systemic/Family Constellations (Bert Hellinger) T: 050 141 8790 E: mhaki@aromera.com www.aromera.com
CAR HIRE
Green Car Rental A range of hybrid to 100 per cent electric vehicles to hire. From the Nissan Leaf to the BMW X6 Hybrid and Tesla Roadster. T: 04 321 7478 E: info@greencardubai.com www.greencardubai.com
CAREER TRAINING
Clinical Aromatherapy & Clinical Reflexology, The Holistic Institute IFPA and ITEC accredited for diplomas in Clinical Aromatherapy and Reflexology. E: info@theholisticinsitute.org T: 04 450 3535 www.theholisticinstitute.org Integrated Clinical Hypnotherapy, Illuminations Well-Being Centre Certified by the Universal School of Integrated Clinical Hypnotherapy Middle East. Five stages. For more information, go to www.usich-me.com or call Illuminations on 04 448 7043 www.illuminationsworld.com
COLON HYDROTHERAPY
Dubai Herbal & Treatment Centre. See Alt. Medical Centres for details. E: admin@dubaihtc.com T: 04 335 1200 www.dubaihtc.com Breath & Health Alt. Medical Centre See Alt. Medical Centres for details. 1080, Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 2. E: hello@breathandhealth.net T: 04 348 9940 www.breathandhealth.net Kay Vosloo, Talise Wellness Polyclinic, Al Qasr Hotel Flush out impacted fecal matter, toxic wastes, yeasts and other undesirable matter that build up over time and
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contribute to a variety of illnesses. To book, E: Mona at MJWellness@ jumeirah.com or call +971 4 366 6810
E: synergy8@eim.ae T: 04 348 5452 www.synergyctrdubai.com
COLOUR THERAPY
Tarnia Chapman, Spiritual Counsellor A graduate of the UK School of Metaphysics for the Expansion of Consciousness, Tarnia offers private sessions available to know yourself, be yourself and express yourself. E: Tarn.chapman@hotmail.com T: 050 2754 571
Spadunya Club Award-winning holistic and wellness spa for women using the 100 per cent organic, French colour therapy spa range called Altearah in holistic vibrational and energetic treatments. Hammam, hydrotherapy, beauty room and steam, sauna and showers. Shams 1, The Walk at JBR, Plaza Level. T: +971 4 439 3669 E: info@spadunyaclub.com www.spadunyaclub.com Katrina Valente Holistics A facial therapist and holistic aesthetician/healer with more than 20 years experience in the beauty industry. E: Katrina@katrinavalente.com T: 050 565 7679 www.katrinavalente.com Pamella Pierrepont, Colour Therapist Colour mirrors Dubai and Bio-Altearah Ascension through Colour. T: 0558097445 or email starlightpathways@gmail.com Abeer Ayash, Art Healer Abeer creates Soul Paintings for clients using colour for its therapeutic value. E: info@thirdeyeonline.com T: 04 326 6539 www.thirdeyeonline.com
CHINESE HERBAL MEDICINE (see Acupuncture) COUNSELLING (see also Life Coaching)
Helen Williams, Life Works Counselling and development. Helen is a Gestalt Therapist. 996 Al Wasl Rd, Umm Suqeim 1 E: Helen@lifeworksdubai.com T: 04 3942464 www.lifeworksdubai.com
CRYSTAL THERAPY
Pranic Healing Centre Encorporates pranic with crystal healing. www.pranichealingmea.com
DORN METHOD (Spinal therapy) Karima Nanji at SpaDunya Club See ‘Holistic Centres’
DIET & DETOX
Art of Detox, Malcolm Slyper A free online service dedicated to preventing disease through natural cleansing and detox and raw food. Detox retreats hosted. T: +12024079737 E: info@artofdetox.com www.artofdetox.com Generation Nourished Holistic Health Coaching Programs for women and teenagers looking to lose weight, gain energy, have blood sugar imbalance, or want to overhaul their diet & lifestyle. T: 055 106 7511 www.generationnourished.com Detox Delight Dubai Detox juices delivered to your door and bespoke detox programmes. E info@detox-delight.ae T: 055 5568 318 OUR www.detox-delight.ae
PICK!
Pamella Pierrepont, Starlight Pathways - Thinking into the Future Therapies and Learning Solutions for Kids, PIDDS, The Listening Programme, The Learning Breakthrough.T: 0558097445 or email starlightpathways@gmail.com Andrea Tosatto, Clinical Psychologist, Synergy Medical Centre Specialising in teens and children, Dr Tosatto uses Cognitive Psychotherapy with Jungian analysis as well as yoga and music therapy as needed.
The Sacred Kitchen Higher consciousness cooking under the premise of food as medicine, services include personal chef, therapeutic cooking classes, private dining events, retreat chef, pantry makeover, menu consultation. Specialises in vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, raw and paleo cooking as well as diets for illness or special conditions. E. neha@thesacredkitchen.org T. +97155-7771019 www.thesacredkitchen.org
To get your business listed here as well as online at the UAE Holistic Directory at www.awakeningsme.com, email the details to listings@awakeningsme.com For the full UAE Holistic Directory, go to www.awakeningsme.com
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listings
EAR CONING AND CANDLING Breath and Health Alternative Medical Centre Villa 1080, Al Wasl Road, Umm Suquim 2 E: hello@breathandhealth.net T: 04 348 9940 www.breathandhealth.net
ENERGY HEALING
Golden Energy Healings Zarine Dadachanji incorporates various modalities including Access Bars Consciousness, SRT, Theta Healing, Magnified Healing, Kinesiology, Chakra Clearings, Crystal Healing, and Sound Healing using gongs and bowls. E: goldenenergyhealings@gmail.com T: 050 650 9954. Hands in Hope Meditation Centre Barbara Jackle is a hands-on energy healer. Office 214, Jumeirah Terrace Building, Jumeirah 1 T: 04 351 7901 E: info@hands-in-hope.com www.hands-in-hope.com Noora Deen Reconnective Healing Noora does one-on-one healing sessions working with universal energy frequencies to restore balance to the body, mind, and spirit. She also facilitates The Reconnection. For information on Reconnective Healing, go to www.thereconnection.com T: +971 (0)50 400 5545 E: noora.deen@live.com
EMOTIONAL FREEDOM TECHNIQUE (EFT)
Third Eye Centre Clinical Hypnotherapist Monisha specialises in EFT and Hypnotherapy. Offers workshops such as Taking Charge, Self Hypnosis, Karma and Forgiveness. Contact Monisha at The Third Eye Centre. E: info@thirdeyeonline.com T: 04 326 6539 www.thirdeyeonline.com Cosmic Healing Centre (see Holistic Centres)
FENG SHUI
Cris Falconi Feng Shui Residential and corporate feng shui, interior design and consultancy. T: 055 362 9027 E: info@cristianofalconi.com www.cristianofalconi.com Brenda Margaret, B&C Wellness Ctr Offer Home Alignment, an energetic method to make your home a sacred space. T: +971 55 9743607 E: brendacharu@gmail.com www.brendacharu.com Cosmic Healing Centre (see Holistic Centres)
FLOATATION THERAPY Point Zero Floatation Center, Abu Dhabi
Floatation Therapy, Ayurveda and Body Works. Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi opposite Al Forsan Sports resort and next to Berlitz Language Center. Street #12, Villa 3. T: +971 (2) 445 5775, E: bookings@pointzerofloatation.com www.pointzerofloatation.com
GASTRIC MIND BANDING (see hypnotherapy) GONGING AND GONG BATH MEDITATIONS
Aspen Aman, The Gong House Private and group sessions for healing mind and body through sound meditation as well as gonging classes. Special classes also held for children. www.meetup.com/The-Gong-House Lawrence Enderle Gong Bath Meditations and Sound and Vibration sessions and workshops at various locations in Dubai. Go to www.meetup.com/Gong-BathMeditations Zarine Dadachanji Zarine facilitates private, group and corporate meditation sessions incorporating guided visualisations, gonging, singing bowls and chanting. E: goldenenergyhealings@gmail.com T: 050 650 9954.
HOLISTIC CENTRES
The Alignment Institute Aura alignment, Feng Shui, guided meditation, Tarot, NLP. P.O. Box 114350, Abu Dhabi T: 050 6811728 E: align@shivaniadalja.com www.shivaniadalja.com B&C Wellness Centre Be the Change offers SRT therapy, corporate and individual packages for anger management, personal growth and stress management. T: +971 55 9743607 E: info@brendacharu.com www.brendacharu.com SpaDunya Club Holistic wellness consultants offer therapies that include Reflexology, Iridology, Holistic Nutrition, Theta Healing, Quantum Reading, the Dorn Method, PIDDDS (Personal Integrated Dynamics, Diet and Determination), Breuss Massage, and Reiki. Shams 1, The Walk at JBR, Plaza Level. T: +971 4 439 3669 E: info@spadunya.com www.spadunyaclub.com Discover Nirvana Self-discovery workshops, yoga for kids, space clearing and feng shui for the home, Ayurvedic cooking, wellness for pets, crystal healing, Reiki, Theta healing
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and online shopping. E: info@discovernirvana.org www.discovernirvana.org The Miracles Center Icon Tower, office 306, next to Byblos Hotel Tecom (Dubai Internet City Metro) T: +971 (0)4 363 9307 E: info@miraclesworldwide.com Cosmic Healing Centre Services, treatments, events and training in various healing modalities, self-empowerment workshops and meditations, plus alternative and complementary therapies. Pranic, Theta, Reiki, Vastu and Feng Shui, Crystal, KriyaShakti, EFT, Hypnotherapy.Office No: 402; Montana Building, Home Options Building, GPO, Karama, Dubai. E: info@cosmichealingcentre.org T: 04 357 6676 www.cosmichealingcentre.org Illuminations Well-Being Centre 409, Fortune Executive Towers, Cluster T, Plot T1, JLT (next to Dubai Marina Metro). E: info@illuminationsworld.com T: 04 448 7043 www.illuminationsworld.com The Third Eye Centre 1101 Saeed Tower II, On top of Nandos/ KFC, next to Four Points Sheraton, Sheikh Zayed Road. Financial Centre Metro. E: info@thirdeyeonline.com T: 04 326 6539 www.thirdeyeonline.com The Holistic Institute A variety of holistic therapies, studies and career training. T: 04 450 3535 E: info@theholisticinsitute.org www.theholisticinstitute.org Balance Wellness Centre Ayurvedic treatments, diet, counselling, meditation, therapeutic massage, herbal therapies, yoga and Pilates. Third floor, Oasis Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road E: info.balance@cplmg.com T: 04 384 7010 www.balance-wellness-centre.com
HOMEOPATHY
The Wellness Brothers Sean and Ryan Penny offer personal training, DNA testing for health, diet and fitness; the ABC of fat-loss; 10 or 15 day detox plans, and more to individuals, groups, and companies. E: contactus@thewellnessbrothers.com www.thewellnessbrothers.com
HOUSEHOLD MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR Green Facilities Management (Green FM) Environmentally-friendly home maintenance and repair, from water tank cleaning to pest
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control, renovations, air con service and repair, 24/7 emergency call outs and more. T: 04 440 8929 or 050 5520 150 E: info@green-fms.com www.green-fms.com
HYPNOTHERAPY
Awakened Potential Adrian Maul uses NLP and hypnotherapy to help awaken your mind and realise your potential in work, home, socialising or achieving a life goal. First session free with no-strings attached. T: +971 (0)56 676 9483 E: adrian@awakeningsme.com Awakened Soul, Rachel Beavan Healer and psychotherapist E: beavanrachel@mac.com www.rachelbeavan.com Elite Mind Solutions Anna Yates is a psychotherapist, clinical hypnotherapist, licensed NLP practitioner, gastric mind band therapist, pause button therapist, and smoking cessation specialist. T: +971 (0)50 6512145 www.elitemindsolutions.com Rachel Foy Clinical and cognitive behavioural hypnotherapist, EFT, NLP, homeopath and nutritional therapist. Offers inner repatterning, hypno-birthing, gastric mind banding. Rachel offers a free 20 min session for new clients. Call 04-4503525 www.rachelfoy.com SJB Wellbeing Clinical Hypnotherapy healer and psychotherapist offering hypnotherapy for self empowerment of ones life and taking charge. Addictions, fears & phobias etc. T: 050 6847410 E: sharon@sjbewellbeing.com www.sjbwellbeing.com Sabine Poncelet Healer and hypnotherapist. Private sessions at KUUR Physiotherapy Center. Hypnotherapy for: anger, stress, anxiety management. Self confidence,self esteem, past life regression and more. T: 050 81 44 529 www.sabinetherapies.com Inner Self Consultancy Alexandra Salkova offers hypnotherapy, NLP coaching, Theta healing, EFT, Reiki, De-stress programme. E: alexandra@innerselfconsultancy.com. T: 050 698 4612. www.innerselfconsultancy.com Graca Ward Hypnotherapy for addictions such as smoking, phobias and sea-sickness. E: gracaward@yahoo.com
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IRIDOLOGY
Stephanie Niazi, Spadunya Club Stephanie uses iridology to evaluates wellness imbalances through tissue markings in the eyes which are addressed with holistic nutrition and food solutions. www.spadunyaclub.com
KINESIOLOGY
Osteopathic Health Centre Malcolm Gregory and Nargis Raza give self-help and support to people suffering from pain. Umm Suqueim and Mirdiff E: clinicsinfo@osteopathydubai.com T: 04 348 73 66 www.osteopathydubai.com
LIFE COACHING
Inner Self Consultancy Alexandra Salkova offers hypnotherapy, NLP coaching, Theta healing, EFT, Reiki, De-stress programme. E: alexandra@innerselfconsultancy.com. T: 050 698 4612. www.innerselfconsultancy.com Mind Body Dynamix MBD founder Amal Loring has counseled many UAE families on a wide range of issues ranging from social, relationship and economic matters. Location: The Citadel, Business Bay E: info@mindbodydynamixs.com T: +971 50 655 0438 www.mindbodydynamixs.com Soul mapping, Stephanie Hamilton Get help understanding your life’s purpose. T: 050 870 1927 E: connect@nektar.ae www.nektar.ae Livia Anzaldo, Liv 2 Lead Individual lifestyle coaching plus corporate coaching, wellness and adventure travel retreats, yoga classes. E: livia@liv2lead.com T: 050 1819 527 www.liv2lead.com Sushma, Third Eye Certified Life Coach, Sushma conducts coaching workshops and sessions E: sushma@thirdeyeonline.com T: 04 326 6539 www.thirdeyeonline.com
MASSAGE
Dreamworks Spa Dubai Balinese foot reflexology and massage centres in various locations E: mail@dreamworks.ae T: 800 6277 243 www.dreamworks.ae Feet First Reflexology and massage centre. Services include deep tissue massage, de-stress massage, shiatsu massage, acupressure facial, slimming massage E: info@feet1st.com
T: 04 366 9956 www.feet1st.com Heaven on Earth Med Spa Holistic Massage, Organic Essential Oil Aromatherapy and Hammam, Naturopathic & Natural Wellness Consultations, Organic Living Foods Weight Loss & Reversing Diabetes programs. Concord Tower, Media City, Dubai T: +97144542806 www.HeavenOnEarthMedSpa.com Naturopathy Touch Building Lake City Tower, opp JLT metro station, JLT. E: info@naturopathytouch.com T: 04 452 6969 www.naturopathytouch.com
MAID & CLEANING SERVICES
Eco Maid ME The region’s first and only toxin and carcinogen-free, eco-friendly cleaning service using primarily citrus and mineralbased cleaners imported from Europe and New Zealand. T: 050 158 2192 or 04 388 1292 www.ecomaidme.com
MEAL DELIVERY SERVICES Kcal Extra Healthy calorie-controlled monthly meal plans delivered daily to your door. T: 04 3395 316 or sign up at the website www.kcalextra.com HealthTrendz Healthy food to go. E: healthtrendz@dwtc.com Lively UAE Tailored meals delivered to your doorstep and continuous follow ups and body assessment. Branches in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. E: info@lively.ae for Dubai or infoad@lively.ae for Abu Dhabi. www.lively.ae Right Bite Healthy calorie-controlled monthly meal plans delivered daily to your door. T: 04 338 8763 E: info@right-bite.com www.right-bite.com U’ve Got Meal Daily meal delivery services for weightloss and well-being, international cuisines available. Call 600 544402 or SMS “FIT” to 052 877 2174 for a call you back within 24 hours. E: info@uvegotmeal.com www.uvegotmeal.com
MEDITATION
Cosmic Healing Centre - See ‘Holistic Centres’ for contacts. Illuminations Well-Being Centre Various regular weekly meditations. See ‘Holistic Centres’ for contacts.
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The Third Eye Centre - See ‘Holistic Centres’ for contacts. Discover Nirvana - See ‘Holistic Centres’ for contacts. Sahaja Yoga Meditation A method of meditation based on achieving ‘thoughtless awareness’. Free weekly sessions, T: 050 295 3571 E: uaesahajayoga@gmail.com www.sahajayogauae.com Vipassana Meditation Offering courses in Vipassana Meditation as taught by S.N. Goenka. Ten day silent meditation retreats held in RAK. E: vipassana.dubai@gmail.com www.dhamma.org
MUMS & BABIES
Andrea Balazs, Holistic Health Coach & Yoga Teacher Pre and postnatal nutrition, women’s health, and weight management. Hatha and pre/postnatal private and group yoga classes across Dubai. T: 050 584 2934. E: andrea@yoganutrition.com www.andreabalazs.com Dubai Doula Carol Unterhorst is a Dubai-based doula with a degree in Psychological Counselling and skills in acupressure. Contact her through http://ca-doula. blogspot.ae Placenta Passion For placenta encapsulation, Elizabeth Bain is a midwife, public health nurse, certified birth doula, hypnobirthing practitioner and an independent Placenta Encapsulation Specialist. E: bettybain23@hotmail.com T:. 050 4215180/ 050 456 1333 www.dubaidoulas.com
NEURO LINGUISTIC PROGRAMMING Awakened Potential Adrian Maul uses NLP and hypnotherapy to help awaken your mind and realise your potential in work, home, socialising or achieving a life goal. First session free with no-strings attached. T: +971 (0)56 676 9483 E: adrian@awakeningsme.com
Transformations Institute Using NLP, the Transformations team help clients increase their productivity, work and learn smarter, improve memory and concentration, resolve problems creatively, and enjoy greater confidence and self-esteem. T: +971 4 344 0115 E: info@transforminst.com www.transforminst.com
NATUROPATHY
Stephanie Niazi, Spadunya Club Holistic nutrition and iridology to evaluates potential wellness imbalances. Uses Reflexology, Pranic healing, Colour Therapy, Quantum Reading and Dynamic Phyto-Therapy. Shams 1, The Walk at JBR, Plaza Level. T: +971 4 439 3669 E: info@spadunya.com www.spadunyaclub.com
ORGANIC & HEALTH FOODS
Holland & Barrett An extensive range of food and supplements, health foods and herbal remedies that is constantly expanding to respond to the challenge of creating new and innovative products to enhance well-being. Dubai stores in Mirdif City Centre, Dubai Festival City, The Dubai Mall, Jumeirah High Street, Madinat Jumeirah, City Walk, and Oasis Centre. Also in Fujairah City Centre and Ras Al Khaimah’s Al Hamra Mall. www.hollandandbarrett.com Agriculture Box Grow your own fruit, vegetables and herbs. Agriculture Box provides soil, seeds, irrigation/drainage, composting system, organic fertiliser solution, installation and delivery. T: +971 52 875 1318 E: agriculturebox@gmail.com www.agriculturebox.com Be Super Natural A UAE online shop for raw, vegan, organic, fairtrade, ethical foodstuffs and groceries. www.besupernatural.com Le Petit Marché Specialty health organic food store in Jumeirah, has launched its online offering through an exclusive tie-up with Supermarketplace.ae, a new entrant to the online daily grocery space. Le Petit Marche Dept. Store, Jumeirah Beach Road, Magrudy Mall, Jumeirah 1. Tel: + 971 (04) 344 2044
To have your business listed here as well as online at the UAE Holistic Directory at www.awakeningsme.com, send an email the details to listings@awakeningsme.com For the full UAE Holistic Directory, go to www.awakeningsme.com
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listings
Email: info@supermarketplace.ae www.supermarketplace.ae Blue Planet Green People Organic and eco-home, body-care and health foods, along with fruit and veggie produce from local producers at this JLT store plus a farmer’s market on Fridays from 11am to 3pm. Where: BS4, Al Seef 2, Jumeirah Lake Towers, Dubai T: +971 4369 5209 E: info@bpgpuae.com www.blueplanetgreenpeople.com Down to Earth Organics Supplies organic food and groceries in Dubai. Store at G11, Sheikh Hamdan Awards Complex, Opposite Union Flag, Jumeirah 1, Dubai. E: info@downtoearthorganic.ae T: 04 386 3391 www.downtoearthorganic.ae The Farm House Local, seasonal , organic and fresh producuts of the farms in UAE; beef, lamb,camel, chicken, fresh organic chicken egs, fresh organic quail eggs, organic cow milk, goat milk, sheep milk, camel milk. All seasonal organic local vegetables and fruit.
Souk Al Manzil, Down Town Dubai Daily 8am until 10 pm E: bob@thefarmhouse.ae www.thefarmhouse.ae Greenheart Organic Farms Freshly harvested organic produce from UAE farms sold to Dubai residents, via designated collection points or through home delivery (minimum order Dh100). Order online or pop in to the shop in Arjan, Al Barsha 2, close to the Arabian Ranches roundabout. www.greenheartuae.com Organic Supermarket and Café Fresh organic and biodynamic food, supplements, skincare, cosmetics, baby items and household products. Stores in Greens, Jumeirah and Shk Zayed Road just past Oasis Centre. T: 04 4340577 www.organicfoodsandcafe.com Milk & Honey Premium organic brands and produce. 24/7 delivery. T: 04 432 8686 for Palm Jumeirah and 04 435 6363 for Meadows Town Centre. www.milkandhoney.ae
Ripe Middle East Supplies local organic produce in Dubai. Farm fresh fruit and vegetables delivered to your door or for purchase at the farmers markets. Warehouse 11, 6A Street, Al Quoz behind Times Square Ctr. E: info@ripeme.com T: 04 380 7602 www.ripeme.com The Green League, Dubai Garden Centre Fresh organic fruit and vegetables. Fresh Corner in the Dubai Garden Centre, Sheikh Zayed Rd and every day at Lafayette Gourmet, Second floor Dubai Mall. T: 056 176 2992 E: info@thegreenleague.ae.
PILATES
Mojo Reformer Pilates Pilates bootcamp classes. T: 800 MYMOJO (800 69 6656) E: mojopilatesdubai@gmail.com www.mymojopilates.com Real Pilates Private and Semi-Private Sessions also available, including Rehab Pilates. Two locations: Palm Strip Mall, 1st Floor, Jumeirah. JLT JBC2, Tower, Cluster V www.real-pilates.com
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The Hundred Pilates Studio Dubai Healthcare City, District 1 Al Razi Building #64, Block B, Suite 3020, Dubai T: 04 429 8433 www.thehundred.ae
PHOTOGRAPHY
Soul Photography with Nektar Lifestyle Stephanie Hamilton specialises in photography projects that heal and celebrate your life. T: 050 870 1927 E: connect@nektar.ae www.nektar.ae
PRANIC HEALING
The GMCKS Pranic Energy Healing Center Pranic healing courses of all levels and group meditations. Encorporates pranic with Arhatic Yoga, KriyaShakti, crystal healing and Feng Shui. T: 04 3688067/ 3688104 M: 050-6566547 www.pranichealingmea.com
QIGONG
Meihua Li Tai Chi Group or private lessons available weekly. See website for times. T: Anmarie 050 4698589 E: anmarie@mltaichi.com www.mltaichi.com
Why your animal needs energy healing… Sabine Poncelet Alternative Therapies
From cats to dogs, horses, camels, dolphins and wild animals, pets absorb and reflect the energy of their environment and the people around them. If the environment is healthy and peaceful, it is likely that the animals living there will be healthy and peaceful. But if the environment is one of chaos, strife and imbalance, the animals will reflect these qualities. Animals can read your thoughts and emotions and they choose to absorb your heavy and low energies such as stress, anxiety, and negative thoughts. The problem is that over time this can make them ill. The best way to prevent your pet taking on your issues is to take care of yourself physically and mentally as well as have your animal cleared of negative energy on regular basis. Animals respond intuitively to energy healing. It helps to support the healing of emotional and physical illness. Energy healing also provides comfort and relieves pain, anxiety and fear for terminally ill animals. Energy healing is used on competitive racing animals as well as on animals that have gone through emotional trauma. It is an excellent complementary treatment that works beautifully with traditional veterinary care, enabling the animal to be more relaxed and heal faster. Many veterinarians use energy healing as a support in addition to conventional veterinary medicine. What can energy healing do for your animal? • Increase performance and overcome competition stress • Behavioural issues, anxiety, fear, aggression, depression • Physical injuries, post surgical recovery • Colic, gastric and stomach disorders
• Lung and respiratory problems • Trauma, abuse, neglect, trust issues • Kidney disease and kidney failure, heart problems, hip dysplasia • Travel stress, arthritis, muscle aches and strains And much more...
Sabine Poncelet specialises in energy healing for animals. A session includes ThetaHealing, Reiki and animal communication. Rates: Consultation and home service available for Dubai, Ajman, Sharjah, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah. See the website for pricing information. To make an appointment, call Sabine on +971 (0)50 8144 529 or email: info@sabinetherapies.com. www.sabinetherapies.com
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listings
The Third Eye Qigong Instructor Ania gives personal classes and group workshops in Qigong as well as healing sessions to remove blocks from meridians and energy channels. E: info@thirdeyeonline.com T: 04 326 6539 www.thirdeyeonline.com
REFLEXOLOGY
Dreamworks Spa Dubai Balinese foot reflexology and massage centres in various locations. E: mail@dreamworks.ae T: 800 6277 243 www.dreamworks.ae Feet First Reflexology and massage centre. Services include deep tissue massage, de-stress massage, shiatsu massage, acupressure facial, slimming massage. E: info@feet1st.com T: 04 366 9956 www.feet1st.com
REGRESSION THERAPY
Awakened Soul, Rachel Beavan Healing, guidance and psychotherapy. E: beavanrachel@mac.com www.rachelbeavan.com Mimi Harding Discover your past life connections to places, people and your inner self. Member of of the Past Life Therapists Association. Adv PLR & LBL Specialist. To enquire or book, email Mimi on Mimi. Harding@gmail.com or call 056 991 8852.
REIKI
Awakened Soul, Rachel Beavan Healer and psychotherapist Rachel offers healings as well as classes in Reiki. E: beavanrachel@mac.com www.rachelbeavan.com Seda Goksel Healing Reiki Master and Theta healer. Private healing sessions and Reiki classes. T: 050 600 6968 E: sedagoksel@hotmail.com www.facebook.com/SedaGokselhealing Tibetan Usui Traditional Reiki Sharon is a Master/Teacher Healer offering Healing sessions and Reiki Workshops. T: 050 6847410 E: sharon@sjbewellbeing.com www.sjbwellbeing.com
REIKI FOR ANIMALS
Animal Reiki in Dubai Sabine Poncelet helps heal your animal and yourself with energetic care. T: 050 814 4529 E: info@sabinetherapies.com www.sabinetherapies.com Diane Taylor, Tibetan Usui Reiki Diane uses Reiki on horses to help heal their issues. T: 050 749 2566 or book through the
website at www.whitelighttherapydubai.com
RESTAURANTS & CAFES
Bestro – Live and Raw Dubai’s first raw food restaurant, Bestro’s menu is all vegan apart from the raw Yemeni honey that’s used in selected items. Galeries Lafayette, Dubai. T: +971 (0)4 441 6407 www.facebook.com/BeStroUAE Baker & Spice Salads, handmade wild bread, cakes, breakfasts and mains, all made from locally sourced ingredients where possible. Location: Souk al Bahar and Dukkan al Manzil, Downtown Dubai. Marina Promenade. Maps on website. T: 04 425 2240, 04 427 9856 and 04 362 4686 www.bakerandspiceme.com Balance cafe Vegan and vegetarian dishes as well as non-vege. The menu shows the calories, fat, carb, fibre, cholesterol and sodium content of each dish. Cooking classes also on offer, plus take-away. Third floor of the Oasis Centre on Sheikh Zayed Rd T: 04 384 7010 www.balance-wellness-centre.com Biorganic Cafe Cute cafe and juice bar within the Biorganic Supermarket. Grd floor I-Rise Towers, Tecom. www.biorganicstore.com T: 04 4433 535 The Farm Promises local and organic ingredients, where possible. Location: Al Barari, off Emirates Road - driving directions on website www.thefarmdubai.com T: 04 392 5660 Sophie’s A ‘gastro-café’ offers homemade healthy food, local and organic when possible. Location: Lower Ground Floor, Building 8, The Shoreline, Palm Jumeirah T: 04 451 5982 www.sophiesme.com Saladicious Fresh and healthy salads a speciality. Jumeirah Beach Road going towards Jumeirah Mosque, take a right turn at The One. There’s also a deli on JBR Walk. T: Jumeirah 04 345 5822 or JBR Walk 04 423 0855 www.saladicious.com Zest restaurant Natural, fresh and nutritious food and drink using the highest quality ingredients, organic when possible. Location: Tunisia Food Court, Ibn Battuta Mall. T: Call 800 ZEST (800 9378) for delivery. www.zest.ae Nathalie’s Cafe Fresh, low-fat meals in Abu Dhabi media zone, Twofour54 in Khalifa Park. T: 02 441 1330 www.facebook.com/NathaliesCafe
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SHOPPING
Elements Fengshui Candles, crystal rocks and jewellery, aura cleansers, pendulums, singing bowls and bells, new age music and more. Outlets in Al Khaleej Centre, Bur Dubai; Deira City Centre; Level 1 Mall of the Emirates; Dubai Mall. E: elementsfengshui@gmail.com T: 04 295 0988 www.elementsfengshui.com Green Bags UAE Eco-friendly bags in UAE & leading provider of jute ,cotton and juco bags. These ethically-produced reusable bags are a replacement for plastic. T: 04 370 5277 E: enquiry@greenbagsuae.com www.greenbagsuae.com Noviplus Noviplus offers members discounts on health and fitness services, tips and advice, news, fitness tools and more. T: 050 585 6948 E: info@noviplus.ae www.noviplus.ae
Anahata Spa, Abu Dhabi Beauty, health and holistic wellbeing. Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi. T: 02 557 7722 E:info@anahataspa.ae www.anahataspa.ae. Natural Healing Spa Villa 1183, Al Wasl Road, Dubai. T: +971 4 3483896 www.naturalhealingspas.com Spadunya Club, JBR Various holistic techniques from an international team of therapists and healers. Treatment suites, hammam, hydrotherapy, beauty room and steam, sauna and showers. Shams 1, The Walk at JBR, Plaza Level. T: 04 439 3669 www.spadunyaclub.com eSSensuals Aromatherapy Centre Holistic women’s spa. Treatments include massages, Facials, body treatments, reflexology, Aroma Manicure, Pedicure and more. First floor, Jumeirah Centre, Jumeirah Beach Road (next to Spinneys and Magrudys). E: essensuals1@gmail.com E: 04-3448776
Sparklefairy New age and wellness online boutique. www.sparklefairy.com
Lotus Wellness Spa, Dubai Marina Holistic treatments for men and women. Lotus Hotel Apartments & Spa, Marina T: 044402805 E: spa@lotus-hospitality.com www.lotus-hospitality.com
The Little Fair Trade Shop Products and foodstuffs made by artisans and farmers in developing or disadvantaged countries. E: thelittlefairtradeshop@hotmail.com T: Sabeena on 050 105 2813 www.thelittlefairtradeshop.com The Change Initiative, Barsha Sustainable products, from household to fashion and appliances. E: info@tci-mail.com T: 800 824 www.thechangeinitiative.com
Talise Wellness Spa, Madinat Jumeirah Blends integrative medicine and diagnostics with holistic therapies. www.jumeirah.com
SPAS & RETREATS
Kalm Holistic Beauty, Palm Jumeirah A One Stop holistic shop offering women facials, manicures, pedicures, eyelash extensions, massages, waxing, threading, hair treatments, haircut and blow drying. Palm Island Jumeira, Riva Beach Club, between Shoreline Apartments 7 and 8. T: +9714 451 9988. www.kalmbeauty.com
Zayna Spa, Abu Dhabi Well-being treatments and traditional massages in this spa hotel based in the Grand Millennium Al Wahda Hotel, Abu Dhabi. Facial treatment against aging. E: zaynaspa@grandmill-alwahda.com T: +971 2 495 3822 www.grandmillenniumalwahda.com
Supreme Chi Energy Spa, JLT Energised water therapy spa for problems like asthma, angina, hypertension, migraines, headaches, back pain, chronic fatigue syndrome, high cholesterol, morning sickness, etc. Swiss Towers, Y3, opposite Carrefour & Damas, Jumeirah Lake Towers, Dubai T: 04 3605806 / 055 8742129 E: acarroll@supremechi-energyspa.com
Mizan at Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi Traditional massages, Hammam rituals and tailor-made treatments using the worldrenowned brands Maroc and Natura Bisse www.roccofortehotelabudhabi.com
To get your business listed here as well as online at the UAE Holistic Directory at www.awakeningsme.com, email the details to listings@awakeningsme.com For the full UAE Holistic Directory, go to www.awakeningsme.com
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listings
Sisters Beauty Lounge, Dubai & Abu Dhabi A high-end chain of salons for women that offer organic facials and brands including Cowshed, Eminence and Shiffa. Various locations around Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Go to the website for details. www.sistersbeautylounge.com Six Senses Spa, Zighy Bay, Oman Holistic and pampering combining east and west therapies. T: +968 2 6735 555 www.sixsenses.com/sixsenseszighybay
SPIRITUAL RESPONSE THERAPY (SRT)
Lukas Putz An SRT practitioner and teacher, Lukas works out of Illuminations Well- Being Centre (see Holistic Centres). For SRT information, www.spiritualresponse.com www.illuminationsworld.com B&C Wellness Brenda Margaret and Charu Mathur are SRT practitioners. T: +971 55 9743607 or +971 55 5662219 E: brendacharu@gmail.com www.brendacharu.com
STRESS MANAGEMENT
Well Woman Clinic, Melanie Schlatter E: wwc@emirates.net.ae T: 04 332 7117 www.wellwomanclinic.ae Dubai Physiotherapy & Family Medicine Comprehensive family medicine and physiotherapy. 1st Floor, Town Centre Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Road. T: 04 349 6333 www.dxbphysio.com
UNANI (CUPPING/HIJAMA) Dr. Amr Farouk, Ajman Clinic at GMC Hospital. Call during business hours on +971 (0)6 746 3333
Al Hijama Alternative Medical Centre Drs. Fatima Shaheen and Syed Asaduddin Ahmed are Unani and Hijama specialists in Sharjah, 306 DeltaTower, Corniche Street, Sharjah. T: 050 804 9107 or 06 556 0500. E: docsaab@hotmail.com
TAI CHI
Meihua Li Tai Chi Group or private lessons available weekly. See website for times. T: Anmarie 050 4698589 E: anmarie@mltaichi.com www.mltaichi.com
TRAVEL (see ‘Wellness Retreats) THETA HEALING
ThetaHealing® Sessions Evelin Novikova, Certified ThetaHealer® offers one-on-one ThetaHealing sessions. Sessions are also available over Skype. T: + 971 55 947 3697
E: Evelin@thetahealingsessions.com www.thetahealingsessions.com Awakening Conferences & Seminars Organizing ThetaHealing® helps you remove your subconscious blocks allowing you to create instantaneous physical, mental, emotional & spiritual healing. Book a ThetaHealing® one-on-one session or attend a seminar with Masters and Certificates of Science Maya Badran and Tony Shoushani. T: +971 50 8491237 E: info@awakeningthemasters.com www.awakeningthemasters.com Sabine Poncelet Alternative Therapy Theta Healing, Reiki, Magnetism & Mediumship M: 050 81 44 529 www.sabinetherapies.com Theta Healing Universe Part of Third Eye Centre, offers Theta Healing courses and sessions. T: 04 326 6539 www.thetahealinguniverse.com
VASTU see ‘Feng Shui’ WELLNESS EQUIPMENT
Om Life High-end wellness, fitness and physiotherapy equipment for spas, clinics, gyms and private clients. T: +971 4 368 0994. E: infoweb@omlifeme.com www.omlifeme.com
WELLNESS RETREATS
B-Wellness Retreats Three-day retreats designed to help women jumpstart into healthy living. E: Bernadette@bernaciseme.com www.bernaciseme.com Yoga Retreats Groups taken on yoga and personal growth retreats in the UAE and abroad. T: 050 1819527 E: livia@yogaretreats.ae www.yogaretreats.ae
YOGA, GYMS & FITNESS
(see also ‘Pilates’, ‘Tai chi’, ‘Qigong’) Bodytree Studio, Abu Dhabi Yoga, Pilates and dance classes. T: +971 2 443 4448 E: info@bodytreestudio.com www.bodytreestudio.com Aura Alternative Medicine Centre Ayurvedic medicines, diet and lifestyle management and Panchakarma for detox, rejuvenating and relaxing. Office 201, Al Faisal 1, CBI Bank Building, King Faisal Road, Sharjah. E: info@aurahealth.ae T: 06 575 7001 www.aurahealth.ae Engine Health & Fitness Yoga to Zumba, Body Pump, Combat and Attack, personal training and more. Beach
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Road, Jumeirah 1. Toll Free: 800 ENGINE T: +971-4-3819999 E: customercare@ehf.ae www.ehf.ae Balance Wellness Centre Yoga and Pilates classes including Hatha, Yoga Therapy, Vinyasa Flow, Dynamic, Pre and Post Natal, Pranayama and Meditation. Third floor, Oasis Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road. E: info.balance@cplmg.com. T: 04 384 7010. www.balance-wellness-centre.com Bikram Yoga Middle East Icon Tower, 4th Floor, TECOM. T: 04 368 6287 www.bikramyoga-me.com Bharat Thakur Artistic Yoga Group classes in various locations through Dubai, Ajman, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. Book your free trial class on T: 800 9642 www.artisticyoga.com
MMA Fitness Centre, Hot Yoga Hot yoga is held at this multi-discipline fitness centre. Location, Pacific Bldg. 2nd Level, TECOM, Dubai, UAE T: 04 367 5077 E: info@mmafitcenter.com www.mmafitcenter.com Total EllipticTraining and Weight Management Centre Indoor walking machines make this training and weight management centre unique to the GCC. Location: Floor 8, Yassat Gloria Hotel, Tecom. Sunday – Thursday 0800-1300 and 1700-2100. Tel. 04 381 8931 Info@totalelliptic.com www.totalelliptic.com Talise Spa Yoga, Madinat Jumeirah Hatha, Astanga, Advanced Yoga, Fitness Yoga, Vinyasa Fit Yoga, Meditative Yoga. Also monthly full moon yoga sessions. E: MJtalise@jumeirah.com T: +971 4 366 6818 www.jumeirah.com
Club Stretch Bikram Yoga and Pilates studio. Al Mina Road, Satwa and Dubai Marina. E: info@clubstretch.ae T: 04 345 2131 www.clubstretch.ae
Rawr Bikram Yoga Dubai Al Sufouh Rd, 713 Concord Tower, Dubai Media City (same building as Lime Tree cafe and Mini Cooper showroom) E: info@rawryoga.com T: 04 4232 808 www.rawryoga.com
Exhale Fitness Ladies-only studios providing Yoga, Pilates, Body Toning and Dance Fitness. Motor City and JBR. Tel; +971 4 4243777 E: info@exhaledubai.com www.exhaledubai.com
Yoga Room, JLT Ashtanga yoga studio. Swiss Tower, Cluster Y, JLT. T: 050 518 9966 E: info@yogaroom.ae www.yogaroom.ae
Fidelity Fitness Club Gym, swimming pool and a variety of group exercise classes including yoga, Pilates, RPM, Zumba, Body Pump, Body Combat, Belly Dancing, Abs Blaster, and more. Locations at Almas Tower in JLT and Al Fattan House Club in Dubai Marina. Tel. 04 451 1133 (Almas) or 04 392 8121 (Al Fattan). www.fidelityfitnessclub.com Fitness 360 Locations at Mazaya Centre (04 330 7711), Arabian Centre (04 236 2111) and International City E: info@fitness360.me www.fitness360.me Gems of Yoga A team of yoga instructors from different parts of India impart yoga education in different styles. Suite 1701, White Crown Building, Sheikh Zayed Road T: 04 3315161, 055 6532750 E: gemsofyoga@live.com www. facebook.com/gemsofyoga www.gemsofyogadubai.com
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Zen Yoga Various forms of yoga at several locations in Dubai including Dubai Media City, Springs Town Centre and Jumeirah. www.yoga.ae TribeFit A gym, a club, a café and lounge all rolled into one. Sports facilities, inspirational Personal Training, Beach Bootcamps, and in-club DJs, Call 800 TRIBE (87423). Email info@tribefit.com www.tribefit.com Yoga Square All levels of Hatha Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga and Pilates. Location: SIT tower -1408, Silicon Oasis Dubai. Tel. 04 379 3314 or email info@ yogasquare-me.com http://yogasquare-me.com
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neanderthal man goes new age
Happy cows
and carnivores
Neanderthal Man is a 40-something, ex-British soldier who collects exotic knives and can strip down a semi-automatic rifle blind-folded. Until recently, he thought ‘chakras’ was a Latina pop star whose hips don’t lie. But things changed for the cardcarrying caveman when he met the Tree Hugger… this issue, it’s a cowspiracy…
T
ree Hugger told me the other day that that she will no longer eat meat from “unhappy animals”. For a while it was only eggs. Tree Hugger refuses to buy eggs unless they’ve been laid by “happy chickens” that are free to roam in grassy fields. She feels strongly about the mental health of poultry. No surprises for guessing that the happy chicken eggs cost much more than the depressed chicken ones. I guess the extra money is needed for building chicken
playgrounds and fun parks. Now it looks like the “happy animals” net is widening. Tree Hugger isn’t opposed to eating meat in theory so we’re not going vegetarian (thank the heavens and everything merciful); it’s animal welfare that turns her into a 5ft2 fire-spitting virago. Despite being a pacifist, hippie, throwback to the 60s, she’d happily take a machete to anyone who mistreats animals. So now, in the name of animal happiness, we have to figure out if our steak came from a contented cow and
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if we’re eating fish fillets from cheerful tuna. It adds a whole new dimension of difficulty to a trip to the supermarket, which in my book is already one of the most hellish experiences on earth. “How can you tell if it lived a happy life once it’s dead?” I asked as we stared at the rows of shelves loaded with red meat. “How am I supposed to look at a bit of ribeye steak or tray or mince meat and know if it came from a well-adjusted cow?” I continued. “And how happy does it need to have been? Just kind of contented with its lot or absolutely ecstatically happy?” And how do you tell? I know they play classical music and give massages to some of them cows in Japan for that Wagyu beef, so I’m guessing those cows are happy but frankly I can’t afford to pay the extra for all that bovine wellbeing therapy. Don’t even mention MacDonalds to Tree Hugger unless you want a lecture on the millions of cows and chickens that live traumatic and miserable lives then get killed each year to make cheap burgers and nuggets. Systemised cruelty on a massive scale, according to Tree Hugger. Apparently these animals are not happy because they are confined with thousands of others in cramped conditions and, as a result, they have to be pumped full of all kinds of drugs to keep nasty diseases at bay. Almost like animal nightclubbing. Anyway, the upshot is that we’re not buying any meat or chicken unless it’s free range. I hope that will keep Tree Hugger happy but in truth, she’d like to see every animal product come with a CV of the animal that died for it printed on the pack. It’s name (eg, Dolly the sheep) and farm of origin, Dolly’s general happiness grade, snapshots of Dolly frolicking happy in lush grass, and assurances that death was painless and unexpected. The farmer had crept up from behind, said, ‘look over there…’ and it was all over before Dolly had a chance to say, ‘baaa byeee’.
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