Browsing Tag

wellness

Retreat Yourself

Posted on February 11, 2020

The concept of going on a retreat has always sounded pretty unique to me, somewhere you go with a specific goal in mind, be it weight-loss or strength building, or even a more meditative soul seeking trip away. Finding one however has only seemed to come through a studio you follow who’s hosting one, through social media, or even friends of friends who went and had a great time…

Now though there’s a real game changer for those seeking some substance on their next trip. Retreat MI is the easiest way to source your own retreat, searchable through your preference of fitness, food, location or maybe you aren’t even sure and just want to see what’s on offer? The great thing is, these are packaged per nights you want to escape, so you can see exactly what’s on offer and book accordingly.

I visited a lovely little retreat called Nirbana in Sri Lanka last month that put precedence on surfing and Voga. No that’s not a spelling mistake either… Voga is the latest yoga craze to test your comfort level (and balance), with recognizable movements punctuated by more fun dance-y rhythms, to the tune of vibey 80’s favourites. It’s catchy and a don’t-take-yourself-too-seriously is an important mindset to have going in.

With a busy mix of fitness and fun, there was also some time to relax poolside in their picturesque inland setting. I’m used to more beach front Sri Lanka views but waking up with the monkeys in the trees chattering and a relaxed breakfast schedule was a welcome alternative to my usual little weekend getaway. From a sunset river SUP to early morning surfing, we didn’t lack adventure or options.

I’ve got my sights set on a Pilates retreat in Sicily next so if you fancy a wellness weekend, I’ll see you there!

travel

A Wellness Weekend at EDITION Abu Dhabi

Posted on March 21, 2019

It’s not often we venture out of our highly captivating city, but in my view, the capitol has some of the most underrated hotels out there! For example, a wellness weekend away to Abu Dhabi with celeb chef Tom Aikens is my idea of a holiday. The brand new EDITION is a beautiful new addition to the city and brings with it a wealth of destination dining hotspots.

Positioned in the downtown district on the waterfront of Al Bateen Marina, it’s truly my new home away from home. A couple of beautiful gyms, spa and restaurants surround a three-story social space that has literally everything under one roof! We arrived to join Michelin-starred Chef Tom Aikens at Market, his all day dining concept which focuses on imaginative, no waste, healthy lifestyle options in an open kitchen setting.

After a well-rested start to the weekend, we ventured out to the Eastern mangroves with Seahawk to kayak around on their crystal clear waters and get some vitamin sea. A new favorite of mine, the mangroves are a beautiful eco hotspot just teeming with life.

Heading back for the evening, we sampled the modern menu of Oak Room, which celebrates world-class ingredients with ‘British rock ‘n’ roll flair’. All whilst either seated or standing in their very communal setting. Paired with exclusive French wines from MMI, the tasting menu offered a selection of everything from a carvery to a la carte options too.

Not wanting the evening to end, the rooftop of The Annex is the place to be, with it’s perfectly positioned sunset views and fire pits for the chillier nights too, it’s a favorite for residents and guests alike.

Waking up with the sunrise was how we greeted our last day at the resort, enjoying not only the warm welcome from the rooftop of the residences, but the spirited yoga session and sound healing with Eastern Vibrations. The EDITION is really a dream staycation that feels more like a vacation.

Fitness Recommended

An Extra Drop Of Health

Posted on May 7, 2018

I’ve been uber hectic recently and fearing for my health and that i’m going to fall prey to the dreaded Dubai flu from the AC’s, I thought i’d look into getting a little top up as a pre-emptive measure. I’m no stranger to needles, (8 tattoo’s so far), but i’m definitely new to the idea of a lifestyle-based additive.

Down in Healthcare City is a small cozy little doctors office that houses the Révitalife Drip; an individually tailored multi-mineral and vitamin intra-venous drip. Putting precedence on bespoke packages, from the pH, to the tonicity and osmolarity, it’s the only Ministry of Health approved IV infusions out there.

It’s the fastest and safest way to feed your body with vitamins and minerals.

Why would you supplement your health with a drip before you’re actually sick? Well, with a wide mix of super antioxidants, immunity boosters and detox cocktails to choose from, you’ve got a rout to total wellness and prevention is of course the best cure. They’ve been clinically proven to stimulate and increase immune system function, increase cellular repair, regeneration and accelerates the process of recovery too.

It’s not without merit either, you are first treated to an on-site doctor’s consultation, which allows deeper understanding of what you may actually need, rather than self-diagnosing yourself.

My first experience was the Anti-Stress and Antioxidant Révitalife Drip

Essential to fight against oxidative stress caused by naturally-occurring free radicals. Free radicals are found in anything from drinking to walking the streets. Unfortunately, plenty of free radicals are unavoidable, for instance all the pollution in the air. This I.V. helps your body to detoxify such toxins, as well as reducing aging and development of degenerative diseases. Research has also shown that raised glutathione levels decrease muscle damage, reduce recovery time, increase strength and endurance and shift metabolism from fat production to muscle development.

I have to say, Barry’s Bootcamp seemed a little less tough the next morning, plus I had tonnes of energy and got a full night sleep too!

I then tried the GUT Healer Révitalife Drip

This drip is rich in glutamine and folic acid, essential for healing the digestion and leaky gut. The L-glutamine in this I.V. drip is essential for the synthesis of the mucoproteins present in the mucous secretions of the GI tract. I am intolerant to all sorts of food so i figured this would be a great one to help with any food sensitivity too.

Last but not least, I hooked up to the Glowing and Radiant Skin Révitalife Drip

Rich in Vitamin C and glutathione, which is vital for detoxifying the skin. Not only is glutathione a powerful antioxidant, but it is essential for helping your skin recover from the daily damage caused by sun exposure and great at combating visible signs of ageing. All helping with my sun-soaked day-to-day routine as I battle the damage of my naive youth on sensitive skin.

It’s really a worthy and cost-effective option to help boost your body and it’s natural balances, as I for one am not good at all at sticking to supplements!

Recommended

ESSE Live Probiotic Plus facial

Posted on May 1, 2018

Now i’m all for packed probiotics in my breakfast for a healthy, happy tummy, but probiotics on my face? I envisioned being caked in a yoghurt-y mask when I first heard about this new facial at SensAsia Urban Spa, but it boasts the latest in prebiotic and probiotic technology. This certified organic, vegan, ethical and cruelty-free facial is heralded as a ‘live’ skincare revolution that slows the signs of ageing.

SensAsia Urban Spa is Dubai’s go-to day hotspot, and this budget-friendly new facial, featuring South African-born brand ESSE with probiotics (live microorganisms), is now firmly on my beauty radar.

The first in the region to offer a range of ESSE facials and products, “ESSE works with the science that our skin is alive with naturally occurring probiotics – live bacteria and yeasts…

Just as research has proven probiotics can help maintain a healthy gut, we now know that optimal skin condition also depends heavily on the probiotic microbes living both on and inside it. Microbes permeate deep into the skin’s structure, and work with each unique make-up of cells to perform the complex chemistry, that equates to that unrivalled outer radiance we all strive for.

Without microbes, skin cannot perform even its basic functions, and the rate of noticeable skin ageing increases sharply. ESSE products create an environment on the skin to promote the growth of these hugely bene cial probiotic microbes. They then form a ‘barrier’ on the surface of the skin (think of it as a completely natural coat of body armour!), which not only protects, nourishes and feeds the skin, but also actively delays the visible signs of ageing.”

Who doesn’t want to try this!? Use the code ESSE AMANDA and get a FREE 15-minute back, neck & shoulder massage when you book any ESSE treatment at SensAsia Urban Spa!

Fitness Recommended

How Fit Is Your DNA?

Posted on January 9, 2018

Is this even a thing? Can your DNA really predetermine how fit you can be? I wasn’t so sure at first, but a consultation with specialist Intercare Wellness doctor, DR. Nas Al-Jafari, sat around a cosy table in a cafe in Al Serkal gave me a lot more faith in the process… he was less mad-scientist and more professor X.

Based in Al Marina, Abu Dhabi, Intercare Wellness takes a holistic and ‘whole person’ approach to health. Offering a unique range of testing and treatments, the centre highlight’s these genetic screening processes:
• Advanced Preventative DNA & Genetic Testing aimed at identifying a range of hereditary diseases from cancers through to a variety of long-term illnesses, including cardiovascular disease and dementia.
• Lifestyle DNA profiles including ancestry genetics, diet and exercise profiles, skin DNA and personality genetics.

“DNA & Genetic testing goes far beyond learning about ancestry, 90% of diets fail because each person’s body reacts differently to various foods, exercise, and micronutrient levels, which is somewhat down to our DNA. Your genes don’t just determine your eye colour; but determine diet and nutrition, physiological traits like endurance, fat burning ability, metabolism and undiagnosed nutrient deficiencies. They can also help determine if you’ve got more of a predisposition for certain illnesses, based on testing how our skin will age!” DR. Nas

For myself, I wanted more of a focus on fitness & sport, so I chose to try out their DNAFit genetic testing. Recommended for those who are already fit and looking for a more indepth analysis, DNAFit can tell you what your recovery nutrition needs, your aerobic potential and your power endurance response is.

It’ll also tell you your potential for optimal fitness, such as regimes that will help you meet your health goals and whether you’re at risk for certain vitamin deficiencies that can affect your heart, memory and energy levels. It can also give you insight in into traits such as sodium intake, lactose and alcohol metabolism and gluten sensitivity.

My results arrived after 6 weeks:

You get a much larger, much more in-depth analysis online, accessible with your log in details and you can enter a world of DNA, including chat rooms and Olympic medalist comparisons, that will help give you a much better understanding of your overall DNA design, all from a simple little cheek swap.

Recommended

The Science in Face Reading

Posted on February 28, 2017

From “Dragon” face Angelina Jolie, to the “Deer” face of Robert de Niro, there really is some truth to the idea that your face is an open book. Face reading is an ancient form of transcribing one’s health, wellbeing and career potential that dates back through centuries and cultures. Most people think they can control how they are perceived outwardly to the world, but if you’re like me then that certainly isn’t the case. I’m often told to ‘watch my face’ with regards to expressions… more often than not my face will say something only my mind is supposed to be thinking, or perhaps i’ve drifted off and am thinking about another subject completely, I have no poker face.

As part of the Talise Spa celebrating their 10 year anniversary, they’ve invited global wellness experts in to amplify their activities. I met with internationally recognised Face Reader Eric Standop who works with a variety of industries globally, from potential employees in Silicon Valley to criminal investigation units in Europe.

Love it or hate it, we’re stuck with these eyes, cheeks, chin, and nose and Eric is able to decipher your potential from reading a minutia of expressions, shapes and connect these dots to help tell you (if you didn’t already know) why you are the way you are. With 30 different facial shapes out there, you can be two or three of these combined, giving you an interesting way of seeing inside your personality (personology). I was a combination of three, a king, a tree and also a fire face, giving me an ‘almost complete’ dragon face.

A snippet from my reading… My high forehead and pointy chin are characteristic of a “Fire” face which indicates passion, motivation and inspiration, as well as quick thinking and swift communication, but also represents overexertion and impatience. I also display an expressive jawline that is typical of a “King” face. Which translates as a person that never rests and is accustomed to fighting – somebody determined to succeed. The tree is more of a giver, who likes to shade those underneath the branches and reach out to those in need.

What interested me the most was the total evaluation, which can last anywhere up to 6 hours for one reading on its own, there’s so much history and science behind the method of reading faces that it can an all-encompassing experience… Eric is definitely someone you want to listen to.

Check out what else is on at Talise this month here!

Fitness

Testing Out: TRX

Posted on February 17, 2017

So i’m bored of my normal daily fitness routine… I joined one of the gym apps this year as part of my fit plan for Jan and i’m having fun trying out some new studios. Motion Fitness is just across from the Burj al Arab, so it’s really easy to get to, and you won’t have to fight for parking either.

Designed as a home away from home, this villa is setup with various rooms and studios to become a one-stop-shop for women looking for a workout. They’ve got a whole host of different classes you can try out too, so I jumped in to one of their TRX classes in their upstairs studio.

I hadn’t really taken a TRX class before so it was nice to be guided through the setup, and my god we were put through our paces in there. But why is TRX such a great way to workout?

If you’re a fan of circuits (i’m not really), it’ll help you reduce the time spent pacing from one training station to another if you want to train different parts of the body. As well as the obvious time benefits (we only get an hour to exercise in our busy schedules don’t you know), you’ll feel it the next day as it works muscles you had totally forgotten about…

Your core is challenged in every exercise and that means more than just your abs! We’re talking pelvis, shoulders, back and chest muscles, it engages the whole body. There’s an instability in the swinging suspension system of the TRX that means you have to keep your core tight at all times, as your body is using the TRX to help keep you stable. You’ll also work more than one or two muscles as a jump squat involves you pulling/pushing on the TRX too.

Rather than buying one and pretending to use it at home, i’d rather pop in here weekly for a class.

travel yoga

Life Well Travelled in Oman

Posted on February 7, 2017

I’m all for a weekend away, but they aren’t always as glam as Instagram makes out. More often than not, they are choc full of busy days and business dinners, so every now and then I like to take a little time out. Not just from work, but from my phone too. It’s important in this day and age to learn to switch off. There’s a new online portal H Retreats that will help take care of your digital detox too… I love Oman as a place of constant peace and tranquility, it is my go-to getaway that’s also super easy to get to!

Here’s where i’m thinking to retreat to this year:

Beachside
They work with global certified healers, guides, therapists, health and fitness experts to create bespoke programmes to comfort, strengthen and support you along your retreat. This beautiful adventure is set aside the Indian Ocean on the south coast of Oman at Al Baleed Resort in Salalah, surrounded by mountains and the sea. A great place to unwind, recharge, discover and de-stress. Whilst enjoying the perks of a luxury five-star hotel too.
When: Wednesday 22nd March – Monday 29th March 2017
What you get:
Full board – breakfast, lunch and dinner
Airport transfers
8 yoga classes
Up to 6 one-to-one holistic treatments with world renowned healers and therapists
4 therapy workshops
2 luxurious spa massages
1 group Tibetan singing bowls session
1 nutrition workshop

Mountain High
An idyllic retreat, perched 2,000 metres above sea level on the curving rim of a great canyon in the Sultanate of Oman’s vast Saiq Plateau, Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar is everything Instagram says it is. Hike through valleys bursting with date palms and orchards of pomegranate, practice sun salutations atop a mountain, try abseiling, mountain climbing, archery or mountain biking!
When: Wednesday 7th June – Monday 12th June 2017
What you get:
Full board – breakfast, lunch and dinner
Airport transfers
8 yoga classes
Up to 6 one-to-one treatments with world renowned healers and therapists
Up to 4 therapy workshops
2 luxurious spa massages
1 Qigong workshop
1 group gong meditation/sound therapy session
1 nutrition workshop

Recommended

How to Look Good in a Bikini at Any Age

Posted on January 31, 2017

Relaxing travels, lounging on a beach and enjoying life in general is something we all appreciate regardless of age. Still, social and aesthetic norms can sometimes create an unjustified obstacle when it comes to your desire to soak up the sun, while reading a good book under a palm tree. Your physical appearance may make you feel uncomfortable in such surroundings. In order to avoid that, take a look at the following tips – with a few healthy habits, your age won’t stop you in having great beach body and attractive confidence while rocking a bikini.

Skin care
It’s essential that you step up your beauty and skin care routine. Your skin’s elasticity and texture change as you age, which is why products that worked for you in your 20s and 30s won’t do much good later on. Using the right products regularly, will surely improve your skin and prevent dryness. What’s more, sunscreen should be a staple in your routine. Even during winter months, sun can damage your skin, which makes an effective sunscreen an important part of your skin care. You can also experience various beauty benefits by using DIY face masks. Half an avocado and one tablespoon of honey effectively moisturize, rejuvenate and brighten the skin.

Light exercise
You don’t have to engage in challenging exercises if that’s not something appropriate for your age. Still, regular physical activity is essential for your health as well as muscle strengthening and body toning. In that respect, you can take up walking as a daily habit, discover the benefits of swimming or try some aerobic exercises. These workouts will boost blood circulation, release toxins, brighten up the skin and make you fitter without putting too much strain on your joints.

Choose the right swimwear
Your age is not the factor that you need to consider for choosing the right swimsuit – your body shape is. Regardless of age, you should always strive to wear garments that flatter your body type. For example, high-waisted bikini bottoms are perfect for people who want to hide lower tummy, while low-cut bikini bottoms are great choice if you have wider hips. Moreover, strapless bikini tops would look fabulous on smaller bust. On the other hand, bra-like fitted tops would offer proper support for big-busted ladies.

Great beach look
There’s a lot more to your beach look than the right choice of swimsuit. If you want to draw attention to your face, wear your hair down and style it in a way that suits your face shape the best. On the other hand, wearing your hair up will accentuate other areas such as your shoulders and bust. What’s more, accessories such as sunglasses and sarongs can complete your look in a flattering and interesting manner. Therefore, let yourself enjoy the process of getting ready for a lovely beach day.

Boost your confidence
If you find certain aspects of your body straight up bothersome and you’re positive that you can’t hide these shortcomings with effective swimwear and exercise, there’s nothing wrong with opting for plastic surgery. For example, undergoing abdominoplasty, also known as tummy tuck, will effectively remove and tone your sagging skin in the stomach area. If this is what you need to retrieve your self-esteem, feel free to go for it. You can also engage in some confidence-boosting exercises that include self-encouraging mantras. As you meditate, say sentences such as I’m beautiful, I’m strong, I love myself out loud and let them sink in.

In essence, you will find the confidence that you need within yourself. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t use other means to help you find it. Taking proper care of yourself and loving your body enough to make levelheaded decisions about plastic surgeries will put you at the top of the world. And rocking a bikini will be both natural and comfortable.

Written by: Claire Hastings

Recommended

Holistic Home Furniture with 24:35

Posted on December 13, 2016

24:35 Dubai is a home grown start-up furniture brand specialising in one-of-a-kind, handmade, unique statement pieces for the home and we’re in LOVE! The name derives from the Qur’an, from a passage about light, which is where the design house began… candles.

The pieces are made for both one-off purveyors and collectors, with designs hand-made using vintage timbers and unique marbles. 24:35 now boasts a collective of furniture, lighting, home accessories and olfactory home fragrances in its inventory. Currently showcasing in Concept-Me in al Quoz, Hiba Sher is the curator behind this incredible design-house.

All of their pieces are inspired by nature and they are super passionate about the environment, ensuring never ever to purchase freshly cut trees. They only purchase very high quality aged timber that they refurbish themselves or trees that have fallen due to natural calamities. Not only that, for every piece of furniture made of wood, they plant 3 new indigenous trees!

They have a wonderful ethos too, providing complimentary healthcare and education for all company dependents, as well as grants for those who wish to pursue their higher education.

Here are some of their incredible pieces… i’m tempted to redecorate already!

Assorted mulberry logs, the bark was gently removed to preserve the natural form of the pieces. Inlayed with tribal etching inspired Brazilian marble. Methodically and meticulously polished with multiple treatments to recreate the the bark of the wood.

Trays and platters adorned with semi precious stones and natural crystals. Lined and framed in pure brass, every piece is one-of-a-kind, impossible to replicate.

Inspired by Sufi philosophies & arabesque ingredients, 24:35 aromatherapy candles offer a mystical holistic escape from the stress and speed of contemporary life. Harmoniously blended with therapeutic grade essential oils that release positive and healing vibrations, our bespoke fragrance bouquets work to gently comfort and revive the energies and aura of the mind, body and soul. Hand poured into raw monochrome marble and himalayan salt vessels, each distinctive olfactory combination ignites a positive emotional response to leave you relaxed, revived and rejuvenated.

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