Browsing Tag

healthy

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!

Hotspot Recommended

Veganuary at The Four Seasons

Posted on January 16, 2019

It’s pretty self-explanatory, but Veganuary is a month-long pledge throughout the month of January where people try and live a more vegan lifestyle. The Four Seasons in Jumeirah is putting a precedence on wellness and nutrition and has decided to adopt this trend in one of its restaurants this month, which in my view, is fab news.

Let’s face it, adopting a plant-based diet with no meat, no dairy and no animal products can be for some, pretty tricky. I’m a vegetarian but I couldn’t imagine what my diet would look like if I gave up milk, eggs and bread… so I was intrigued to check out just what a vegan brekkie looks (tastes) like.

Their new ‘Get The Glow’ vegan menu unveiled this month at The Pearl Courtyard and I have to say, I was very impressed. (Check it out further down) My favourites are the Turmeric Quinoa Granola, Baobab Blueberry Yoghurt and the Superfruit Salad, share all three over a pot of England’s finest and you’ve got my winning strategy.

“Realizing the importance of a healthy and holistic lifestyle, Executive Chef Gilles has curated a dedicated menu rich in vitamins, antioxidants, minerals and nutrients which is skillfully prepared to create positive, and long-lasting change and promote overall health. Using fresh and seasonal produce sourced from a local organic farm, Chef Gilles aims to change the way we view food without compromising on the flavour.” …and he’s not wrong, with a menu like that, there really is something for everyone and I can definitely recommend it as a healthy hotspot.

Here’s what they’re serving…

Don’t miss out!

Fitness

Testing Out: Rips, Ropes & Straps at Fitness First

Posted on June 6, 2017

Fitness First is the giant of all gyms. Open everywhere and providing pretty much everything you could need for a one on one gym session with a trainer. They’ve progressed to classes as well, but let’s face it, it’s that shiny new equipment we’re most tempted by.

So when a new one popped open up in Mudon, I was first in line to check out their various HIIT regimes. One which stood out for me the most was their Rips, Ropes & Straps set up. We tried a mixture of 5 different exercises, in a group of only 6 people, so ultimately we had more one-to-one time with the instructor… in this case that meant we couldn’t cheat. Hailed as a 45 minute loaded movement training class, using TRX, Rip Trainer, Battle Ropes & Ankorr. It is designed to use 3D movement, aiming to improve your muscular endurance and core strength.

From being strapped in to a harness for elasticated resistance running to core crunches and assisted side winders, the floor became as tough as the wall. Not somewhere to be underestimated either… I always thought Fitness First would be more of a factory, churning out the gym bodies one by one, but I was pleasantly surprised at the homely feel and support systems.

Fitness

Testing Out: Aqua Biking

Posted on February 24, 2017

Ok so I have to admit, I thought this was going to be a bit like aqua-aerobics, you know, where your gran would go to the local community pool for a ‘workout’… I was pleasantly surprised. Not only is L’Atelier Aqua Biking a resistance training class, it’s also a great way to workout if you’ve got an injury. There’s 4 positions on the bike to master, as well as an off-bike section thrown in to keep you moving.

What exactly is it? Described as a mix of circuits and spinning, L’Atelier has specially designed bikes that live in the water itself. It’s not going to be an easy swim where you can keep your hair dry too, the water goes up to your chest and you get 45 mins of legs, arms and core all underwater, with LOTS of splashing about. Feeling strong? Added weights at the side will help increase the resistance, but trust me, as a first timer, it wasn’t a walk in the park.

Not only is it a fun way to workout, it’s an effective form of hydromassage, that is said to help flatten out cellulite. You’ll get less water retention with this workout and thanks to the water’s buoyancy, you’ll be supported by 50% of your body weight, so if you’re injured or over-stretched, this will reduce the risk of further injury.

It’s cold when you first get in… but after the warm up, you’ll be glad your body temperature is controlled by some cooler water. If you’re feeling particularly fit, try the more intense training or HIIT classes too where you’ll be subjected to an underwater trampoline exercise!

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

5x Reasons To Do A Juice Cleanse

Posted on December 30, 2016

A juice cleanse (three days minimum) is a great way to jump start a healthy diet. It’s been a long old festive season, with plenty of catch up’s and evening BBQ’s choc full of neeps, tatties and tarts lining the way… but it’s time to start thinking now about how I want to shape 2017. Personally, I want to get back into shape and that’s where I know a cleanse will help.

Don’t be put off by the word cleanse, it not only helps control appetite and cravings, but is naturally lower in calories, so it provides more concentrated nutrients than we would normally eat over the same amount of time. People who have tried juicing have sometimes complained about getting headaches and inevitable hunger, but they’ve also lived to revel in that second-day euphoria too, so with anything in life, moderation is key. I wouldn’t have thought a cleanse more than once every couple of months is required, but certainly with all this holiday food – i’m keen to give it a go!

Here’s the top 5 reasons why you should join me…

GIVE YOUR DIGESTIVE SYSTEM A REST

ABUNDANT ENERGY

YOUR TASTEBUDS WILL THANK YOU

REAL, HEALTHY WEIGHT LOSS

REHYDRATION!

Cheers to a healthy and happy 2017!

Recommended

Feeding Your Face with Elemis Superfood

Posted on November 17, 2016

If your diet includes less kale and more Krispy Kreme you’ll be very aware of the fact that when it comes to skin health, you are what you eat. Diet choices are directly linked to breakouts, dark circles and fine lines, so what’s a girl to do when she doesn’t want to sacrifice her burger habit for the sake of her beauty regime? Enter, the Elemis Superfood Range. With a line-up of ingredients that would have even the most obsessive clean-eating advocates standing to attention, this new launch from the spa-centric brand focuses on nourishing your face with the perfect balance of radiance-promoting superfoods.

Containing (deep breath) broccoli, poppy, cucumber, macadamia, rice bran, daikon radish, roseship, flax and meadowfoam seed oils (phew!), the cleansing wash and luxury oil contain every nutritional essential you need to fake your way to good genes. Flooding your complexion with omega rich extracts not only has an instant effect, giving your skin a fresh glow after the first application, but, applied twice daily, is clinically proven to reboot the texture of your epidermis and balance the pH level, leaving you with a fresh, glow-from-within radiance that will have everyone convinced you’ve never skipped your greens.

The Power of 9:

Broccoli Seed Oil
Poppy Seed Oil
Cucumber Seed Oil
Macadamia Oil
Rice Bran Oil
Daikon Radish Oil
Rosehip Seed Oil
Flax Seed Oil
Meadowfoam Seed Oil

Superfood facial oil: Dhs378 Available across a range of spas in the GCC.

Recommended

The Beauty Secrets of Alpha-H Skincare

Posted on November 10, 2016

So i’m not very good normally when it comes to a regimented skincare program. I often change up my cleansers and moisturisers, brand for brand, and I will admit to having used hand soap as make-up remover in the past too 🙈. I’m definitely more of a judge-a-product-by-their-packaging/celeb spokesperson kinda gal. Normally.

This is when Alpha-H caught my eye… known for stocking only the most niche products, it was their Harvey Nichols Dubai base that I was drawn to first. A proudly Australian owned and operated brand, Alpha-H is now a globally recognised skincare line.

They brand themselves as a cosmeceutical company, featuring corrective and preventative skincare, and claim to be leaders in exfoliation, resurfacing and skin renewal. Alpha-H likes to ‘bridge the gap between the beauty counter and invasive treatments’. Which suits me perfectly as my skin often needs a little pharmacology, fluctuating between a 16 year old and a 60 year old, depending on how much time i’ve spent in the sun.

Their products work on an effective delivery systems, which infuses the skin with active ingredients by adjusting the pH to stimulate action at a deeper layer of the epidermis. Their best selling product is their resurfacing treatment ‘Liquid Gold’ which has become a bit of a “cult” classic – one is sold every minute!

The nicest thing about this beauty routine is that it feels like i’m putting in minimal effort and there’s absolutely zero downtime, yet it’s a proper skincare treatment.

Fitness Recommended

Make Way for Kold Press – Dubai’s Juice Revolution

Posted on April 26, 2016

Lifting the lid on traditional juicing methods, the Kold Press Juice Kompany started it’s healthy takeover with a focus on fuelling your body with the right ingredients. With it, they’re revolutionising the way your body is able to absorb these required nutrients. I didn’t know this, but traditional juicers use a process that adds some heat and exposes the ingredients to air, two things that cut down on how many nutrients actually make their way into your bottles!

So for some science…The Kold press method extracts the juice by pressing the fruits and vegetables without adding heat and in a more stable manor (hence the term “cold-pressed”). The pressing process ensures that a rich source of phytochemicals, including live enzymes, are maintained throughout. With this method, Kold Press is able to liberate the natural enzymes from the fibers of the fruit and vegetables, ensuring you get more nutrients per sip than with any other juice! This way of extracting the juice ensures the maximum amount of liquid from the least amount of produce and because the Kold Press does not force air into the juice during pressing, the juice won’t expire as fast either…

Eat your fruit and drink your veggies!

Coupled with a team of nutritionists and creative chefs, the Kold Press menu has a variety of sculpted raw and unprocessed juices, that I can assure you, are made with complete integrity and love.

Not only that, the gorgeous glass bottles they come in help ensure that their juices are also environmentally sustainable and 100% recyclable!

Grab yours at Ripe Market, Milk & Honey, Capital D Studio, Eden beach club, H.E.A.T Cafe or why not give them a call for a juice delivery!

Recommended

Work Hard. Play Hard. Cleanse. Repeat…

Posted on November 25, 2015

Having survived the busiest month of the year, it’s high time I wrote up one of the main reasons how I have managed to stay relatively healthy here. The lovely people down at Detox Delight sent me a weeks survival kit, full of some of the tastiest soups I have ever tried! Vegan in design, these cold-pressed and pureed vegetable soups are so full of flavour… one of my favourite concoctions was the hot pink pear and beetroot combo.

Detox delight soups are neither pasteurised nor preserved in an artificial way. A healthy way to support your immune system in times of stress…

Why is cold press so good? Traditional blenders use a process that adds some heat and exposes the ingredients to air, two things that cut down on how many nutrients make their way into you directly. The cold press method extracts the goodness by pressing the fruits and vegetables without adding heat. With this method, the natural enzymes from the fibers of the fruit and vegetables are liberated. This way of extracting the goodness ensures the maximum amount of liquid from the least amount of produce.

If you haven’t tried one of their juice cleanses, then that is well worth a look, (it’s next on my list after the Christmas holidays).

The optimum balance of fruit and vegetables is crucial: Pure fruit juices contain too much fructose, which increases our blood sugar levels, triggers ravenous cravings and impairs our bodies’ ability to burn fat.

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