Browsing Tag

wellness

fashion

Turning ocean debris into activewear

Posted on April 24, 2025

When performance is as important as environmental integrity, you get sportswear with a conscious.

Founded by Alexandra Knight and Nujood Khaled, Me & My Activewear is locally designed in the U.A.E. and crafted from recycled ocean waste and eco-friendly fabrics in Italy, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of the collection.

The collection features breathable fabrics, muscular containment and sweat-proof technology to support you throughout your workout. With clothing for women, teens and girls, that’s built to thrive in the Middle East’s hot climate, each piece also features a UPF 50+ rating for ultimate sun protection.

With OEKO-TEX® and Bluesign® certifications, customers have the peace of mind knowing that Me & My Activewear fabrics are free from harmful substances, rigorously tested for safety and uphold the highest environmental standards.

Here’s what the founders said when I spoke to them about their new label;

Why is it important for you to design a collection sustainably

Sustainability was key at the very beginning of this project and something I was not going to pivot from, it had to be the core of our business, a part of its foundations. This was driven by my personal passion for doing what I can to make a difference and a positive impact on the environment. 

In my previous role I made a decision in 2019 to remove all plastic water bottles from the offices and site at Zayed Sports City and negotiated a partnership with No More Bottles to install filtration systems across site inside and out, we were the first sports and recreation facility in the Middle East to implement this and the impact was huge, in the offices alone it was saving at least 300 plastic bottles of water a day.

When it came to establishing Me & My Activewear it took 17 months from concept idea to creation, we needed to produce activewear that performed, but was kind to the person and the planet. Sustainability isn’t just about a fabric that has been recycled or an organic cotton, it’s about how the fabric was created, where it was created, it’s quality and durability to ensure we are crafting activewear that is made to last. Our customers deserve to have the choice to be wearing the same kit in 10 years, a timeless, high-quality range that is custom designed. 

Our main collection is made from ECONYL®, Regenerated Nylon from recycled waste, including fishing nets, carpets, industrial plastic and clothing take back programmes. Boosting the same qualities as brand-new nylon, but unlike tradition nylon it can be recycled, recreated and remoulded over and over again. Every 10,000 tons of ECONYL®, 70,000 barrels of crude oil are saved and 65,100 tonnes of CO2 emissions are avoided. 

Do you feel there is still space for more fitness clothing in the market here?

I feel that the market is currently flooded with activewear brands and I hear of more soon to enter the market. So, my answer to this is no but also yes…

No, I don’t believe there is no room for anymore brands that are founded on the same USPs and share the same strategic profile. They are focused on core attributes of what the current market tells us customers want, such as muscle compression, soft fabrics, moisture wicking and supportive. They are often made in similar production houses, where they have a catalogue to select the style, colour, fabric and on goes their logo. 

However, there is space for brands that want to step out of the crowd and create activewear that diverges from the current norm, and adds value to the customer. Brands that want to lead rather than follow, seek inspiration rather than focusing on competition, and work towards change.

Me & My Activewear has maintained the product attributes that are the base of sportswear and have created a brand that gives our customers more, is made to last and is eco-friendly. 

  • UPF50+
  • OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 meaning that it has been tested for harmful chemicals and is deemed safe to human health
  • Bluesign® certificate meaning that the fabrics have been manufactured to strict work safety and environmental standards to minimise the impact on people and planet
  • Designed here in the UAE and made in Italy with Italian fabrics that have been specifically selected for the Middle East climate
  • Made from regenerated waste – Ocean waste such as fishing nets, discarded carpets and plastic bottles, as well as waste that would otherwise end up in landfills

How important is the sustainability factor for your clientele?

Customers are looking for sustainable options but are not willing to compromise on quality and performance. 

Specifically for our clients we have found that people are truly pleasantly shocked when they know the fabric is made from regenerated waste, they love the feel of the fabric on the skin and once they try it, they buy it. There is no compromise, they are simply getting more and making a sustainable purchase. 

Beauty

Green dentistry with Dr. Apa

Posted on March 19, 2025

Smiling for all the right reasons after a Q&A with Hollywood’s smile specialist Dr. Apa.

If you don’t know the name by now, Dr. Apa is famed for creating those perfect smiles you see on celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Kendall and Kylie Jenner, Uma Thurman, Kyle Richards to the Olsen Twins, and more. Focusing on minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry and smile makeovers that are more than just a set of veneers.

Here’s what he has to say about an industry that’s not often known for focusing on sustainability, but like any other, has waste to manage and greenwashing to navigate.

How do you integrate more sustainability within in your practice?

There are different ways to think about sustainability. The most obvious way I integrate it into my practice is by ensuring precision and longevity in our work. Limiting the need for redos reduces material waste, lab work and unnecessary procedures. We are continually finding ways to integrate technology into our workflow, without compromising our signature aesthetic. By digitizing some of the early steps in a smile makeover, we can minimize material waste.      

Is there any greenwashing within the industry to be aware of?

Like any industry, dentistry isn’t immune to marketing buzzwords. There’s a lot of talk about ‘natural,’ ‘eco-friendly,’ and ‘biocompatible’ materials, but not all of it is backed by real science. I always encourage patients to ask for transparency—what’s actually in the products, how they perform, and whether they truly deliver on their promises. At the end of the day, our focus should be on both aesthetics and long-term oral health, using materials and techniques that are safe, effective, and backed by research.

How do you encourage a more sustainable mindset for your patrons?

Sustainability in dentistry starts with making choices that last. My approach has always been to use the highest quality materials and techniques to create smiles that stand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements or corrections. We also educate our patients on proper oral care, so they can maximize their results. 

With toothbrushes being one of the biggest single use plastic products out there, how would you suggest we reduce our footprint here? (What do you think of alternative products?)

It’s true that toothbrushes contribute to plastic waste, but the key is finding a balance between sustainability and effectiveness. While there are bamboo and biodegradable options out there, not all of them provide the same level of performance when it comes to truly maintaining oral health. My recommendation is to invest in a high-quality electric toothbrush with replaceable heads—this reduces overall waste while ensuring the best care for your teeth.

Has AI helped shape your practice moving forwards?

There is a lot of potential with AI but it’s all still a work in progress. Technology, in general, is an incredible tool, but the human element—our expertise, creativity, and attention to detail—will always be at the heart of what we do.

What other advances are helping to ensure more effective dentistry for 2025?

Dentistry is evolving fast, and 2025 is bringing even more exciting advancements. We’re seeing major improvements in digital scanning, AI-driven diagnostics, and 3D printing, which allow for more precise, customized restorations with faster turnaround times. Minimally invasive techniques are also becoming more sophisticated, helping us preserve more of the natural tooth structure while achieving incredible aesthetic results. We’re experimenting with digital wax-ups as a more efficient preview of the patient’s new smile. Ultimately, the goal is to make treatments more efficient, long-lasting, sustainable, and patient-friendly without compromising on quality or artistry.

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.

Fitness Recommended

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.

The UN reports that women not only bear the brunt of climate change’s global impacts but are also key drivers of sustainable purchasing and community-wide transformation. That’s why Saie has formed an all-women board of cross-industry experts, with diverse perspectives and proven leadership to help them meet their goals.

 

 

 

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!