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wellness

travel

Why book an Ayurvedic 3-day detox in the Maldives this year

Posted on January 16, 2025

Looking to improve your sleep, relationships and mood this year? Who wouldn’t want to start 2025 with an Ayurvedic 3-day detox. Especially when it’s somewhere as relaxing as the Maldives.

Designed to align with current demands for a more holistic retreat, this exclusive program is curated with natural botanicals brand TheraNaka. A personalizable real blend of traditional healing practices and modern-day wellness insights, that focuses on Ayurvedic dosha identification, balanced nutrition, mindful movement.

What can you expect?

Day 1: Personalised wellness

A 45-minute private consultation to identify your unique dosha—the body’s elemental energies—and a nutrition consultation tailored to your individual needs.

Day 2: A day of movement and nourishment

A rejuvenating yoga session followed by indulge in a dosha-balancing breakfast and refreshing detox juice created specifically for your dosha. The day culminates in a 90-minute treatment crafted to harmonise your body and senses.

Day 3: Empowerment and transformation

Dive deeper into your detox journey by taking part in a hands-on DIY class led by chef, where you will learn to create your own nutrient-rich, dosha-aligned meals. Then onto a two-hour chakra balancing treatment to realign your energy centres and leave you feeling grounded and restored.

Milaidhoo Maldives, nestled in the heart of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll, is a sanctuary committed to preserving the natural wonders that make the Maldives a coveted destination. Perfect for nature lovers as their own coral reef, which encircles the island, is a protected area and noted as an outstanding snorkelling and diving site.

Employing sustainable practices that include; Coral planting and cleaning, where guests, along with the resident marine biologist collaborate, to nurture loose coral fragments and restore damaged areas. Responsible water management by repurposing and using treated water for irrigation, the resort champions sustainable landscaping practices, reducing freshwater consumption and caring for its surroundings. Local product sourcing to keep a lid on carbon footprints, and farm t0 table cooking using organic farming techniques, Milaidhoo produces fresh greens on their own island for guest and staff consumption.

3 reformer pilates studios to try in 2025!

Posted on December 30, 2024

Here’s 3 reformer pilates classes for you to try in 2025!

Matcha Club

A boutique wellness hotspot nestled in the heart of Al Quoz, is offering yet another reason to come and check out this hidden gem, unveiling their brand-new reformer pilates studio.

Already loved for its chic cafe and padel courts, it boasts seven state-of-the-art reformer machines amidst a beautifully designed interior – think large mirrors and windows letting in lots of natural light with views of lush greenery.

To mark the launch, Matcha Club is offering an exclusive introductory package: three reformer Pilates classes for just AED 250. (Regular class pricing is set at AED140.) With up to eight classes offered daily, including a dedicated ladies’ class every day, guests can easily find a session that suits their schedule any day of the week.

Transformer Pilates at Karve

From London to Alserkal Avenue, Dubai’s newest fun and fast-paced workout sessions are redefining the pilates you all know and love.

A studio “inspired by the Big Apple, on the pulse of the Big Smoke.”

The classes are performed on a large custom-made resistance-based, reformer-esque machine. Each class is 50-minutes long and starts with a warm-up, followed by a full body high-intensity workout and completed by a stretch and a mindfulness session allowing for a full reset.

Blended Wellness

This multi-wellness destination caters to health, fitness, and beauty experiences on the shores of the Palm Jumeirah.

A room with a view… the small pilates studios face the ocean, giving way to bright and energetic classes. It’s the perfect way to start the day, and would recommend it’s followed by a trip to their salt room, sauna and indulge in a post-workout massage too!

fashion Recommended

The Clean Beauty Brand At Sephora You Need To Know

Posted on December 5, 2024

The beauty industry impacts us in a whole range of environmental ways, Saie is Sephora’s newest clean beauty brand to really focus on a sustainable future.

Current practices can deplete natural resources, damage oceans, hurt wildlife, and produce harmful microplastics. One of the biggest challenges the beauty world faces is post-consumer packaging waste.

But what’s the answer?

Well one way is using more sustainable packaging, which is typically made from materials that are either biodegradable or recyclable. This includes materials like glass, paper, cardboard, metal, and certain types of plastic, like bio-based or plant-based plastics.

Saie, Sephora’s newest clean beauty brand, focuses not only on clean, good-for-you ingredients, but has also established their own ‘Saie Climate Initiative’ to take direct action to combat climate change.

“As a lifelong lover of Mother Nature, I believe it is our duty to be responsible for the impact we at Saie make on the planet. This unprecedented commitment is our way of taking action, because action is the only way to enact change. I know this is just the beginning, and I couldn’t be more excited to start this journey.” – Laney, Founder & CEO of Saie.

Saie is also committed to cleaning our planet of plastic waste through a three-year partnership with rePurpose Global. This initiative targets the impact of global plastic waste on communities while also investing in women’s development and empowerment. To put it into perspective, their goal is to reduce existing plastic waste by the equivalent of 120 million single-use plastic bottles that eventually end up polluting our oceans.

As well as production changes, Saie are also working towards net zero across all supply chain emissions by 2039 with the following:

Shipping Boxes
Kraft mailers are biodegradable and 100% recyclable.

Cartons
Their product cartons are 100% Recycled FSC-certified paper made in a carbon-neutral facility.

Cotton Balls
Their cushy, comfy cotton balls aren’t just for removing makeup; they actually use them as padding for the inside of the packages.

Paper Tape
Saie use kraft paper tape to safely secure all of their products in transit. The glue on the tape is made of water-activated cornstarch.

Eco Friendly Sustainable

Thankyou, Consumerism Reimagined

Posted on November 29, 2024

We all shop, we shop for what we want, need and also don’t need. But the idea that a product is shoppable solely to do good in this world is the main idea of Thankyou. (Currently) an Australian and New Zealand only based social enterprise, that bring’s consumers a product choice, for one reason only; “to help create a world where not one person lives in extreme poverty.”

In 2008, Daniel, Justine & Jarryd co-founded Thankyou to help bridge the gap between two of our world’s extremes; extreme poverty & extreme consumerism.

Still not quite sure how it works?

Step one: Thankyou makes necessary home, baby and body products you’ll love, like hand-washes, cleaning supplies, baby wipes and deodorants, that are designed to be kind to humans and the planet.

Step Two: Thankyou gives every cent left (after the costs in step one) to help end extreme poverty.

Thankyou is a social enterprise owned 100% by their own charitable trust, with 18.55Million AUD raised so far and donated!

How else are they sustainable? Thankyou focuses on consumer packaging by adopting goals to ensure packaging uses less resources, is more easily recycled, and uses materials which can be returned and reused, with the goal of minimising waste. As of 2020, Thankyou is a certified carbon neutral organisation for its operations by Climate Active. Carbon emissions associated with their products and supply chain estimations were also included and offset as part of this assessment.

Their new plan is to rapidly expand far beyond Australia and New Zealand, with their sights set on the U.A.E. in 2025!

Adventure Fitness Recommended

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!

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