woman this month JANUARY 2012 ı NEW YEAR, NEW YOU ı www.womanthismonth.com home subscribers copy ISSUE 107 Bahrain Edition BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES January 2012 | Issue 107 www.womanthismonth.com New Year, New You A Bright Start for 2012 The Parental Resolutions Fresh Ideas for Mums and Dads Shoe-Boot Mania The Perfect January Staple A Year in the Stars Predictions for 2012 Bite This Bucket-List A Foodie’s Must-Have for the New Year
2 | January 2012 | woman this month 16 68 20 70 60 contents | January 2012 Shopping 08 This Month’s Most Wanted: Watch Those Resolutions 10 Squares and Stripes: Fashion Does Geometry 12 Shoe-Boot Mania: Fancy Footwear Features Women of Inspiration: 14 Cabin Crew Turned Inventress 16 Young and Restless: Wafa Takes on the World 18 10 Tips: How to Achieve Greatness Fashion 38 Fashion Forward: New Year, New Style 40 Fashion News: The Bulletin Briefing 44 Fashion Feature: Find Your Angle Fitness 20 Brand New Bahrain: Fitness Day Out Report Beauty 48 News: January Picks 52 Fragrances: New Year, New Scent Wellbeing 54 Campaign: Make a Difference 56 Feature: Wake Me Up! Parenting: 60 Feature: Parenting in 2012 63 Column: Resolve to do More Regulars 06 Write Here, Write Now 68 Travel: Must Sees for 2012 70 Recipes: The Foodie’s Bucket-List 72 Horoscope: 2012 Predictions 80 Columnist: Wendy Syndrome! JANUARY 2012, issue 107 Dunnes Stores have got cool down pat. More inside! Bahrain Edition BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | PARENTING | LOCAL ISSUES JANUARY 2012 | Issue 107 www.womanthismonth.com New Year, New You A Bright Start for 2012 The Parental Resolutions Fresh Ideas for Mums and Dads Shoe-Boot Mania The Perfect January Staple A Year in the Stars Predictions for 2012 Bite This Bucket-List A Foodie’s Must-Have for the New Year 38 44
4 | January 2012 | woman this month Welcome EDITOR's letter Much as the millennium had people worrying that a technology bug would shatter all of our systems and leave us in turmoil, so the advent of 2012 has been a cause for some concern. The Mayan calendar predicts that, at the end of 2012, some cataclysmic event will wipe out the human race as we know it. While I don’t generally put much faith in this sort of superstition or premonition, I think that there is certainly something that we can take from this feeling of apprehension. If we aren’t sure about the future, it becomes all too important to make sure that our life in its present state is what we want it to be. If, looking back over the last 12 months, or even the last 12 years, you feel that there is something missing from your list of achievements, now is the time to make a pledge with yourself to do it. This doesn’t have to mean taking a risk, such as jumping out of a plane or climbing Everest. It might have more to do with being the sort of person you can be proud of. Let 2012 be the year that you become the best possible version of yourself. Dig deep, find that spark, be a good friend, a dedicated lover, an equal partner, a strong example and, most of all, be good to yourself. Indulge in things that make you happy, put aside time to spend with those that bring you joy, work hard but don’t overdo it and enjoy life with every month that passes. This issue is the New Year, New You issue. Inside, you will find a great array of fashion tips, self help articles, female inspiration and parenting advice. Everything you need to make 2012 count! Natasha Bird Editor For of the moment news, tips, advice and fun links, follow Woman This Month on Twitter @WomanThisMonthB responsible editor Jubran AbdulRahman chairman & publisher George F Middleton publishing director David M Robertson editorial consultant Dr Paul Balles editor NATASHA BIRD contributors Dr Claire McInroy george r vaughan James Claire staff writers Elma Bartholomew Maryam A. Toorani ALISON COLDBRIDGE print production manager Sabu Sebastian layout & graphics RODOLFO A. REYES JR. Dalal Al-Sabbagh RomEO San Miguel media coordinator SARAH ANSARI media executives ESKY Girmay SHANI DAVEL sales manager Mayukh Majumdar circulation FAWAZ AL BALOOSHI photography editor anil Ravi Shankar photographers Shankar Kunhambu Subeesh Kumar NS printing press Union Press, Bahrain Contents copyrighted 2004© Reproduction in whole or in part by any means without the express written consent of the publisher is prohibited. ISBN No: 1 899348 11 5. Licensed by the Ministry of Information, Directorate of Publication and Press. Code: SWTM 410 woman this month is for women in Bahrain wishing to celebrate a unique cosmopolitan lifestyle and community spirit in an objective and proactive manner. For subscriptions visit www.womanthismonth.com Advertising rates are available upon request. Please e-mail [email protected]. The publication of any advertisement in woman this month is not necessarily an endorsement of the advertiser or of the products or services advertised. Although every effort is made to ensure factual information, woman this month cannot be held responsible for errors in contributors’ material, nor do the opinions expressed by individual writers necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. editorial Submission of articles is welcome. Send queries, letters and articles to the editor at the address below. The publisher reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all material contributed. bahrain office address Red House Marketing p.o. box: 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain telephone: (17) 813-777 fax: (17) 813-700 email: [email protected] website: www.womanthismonth.com published monthly by Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. P. O. Box 641, No. 1 Seaton Place, St. Helier, Jersey JE4 8JJ, Channel Islands, U.K. in association with Al-Hilal Publishing, P. O. Box 224, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Woman This Month is a member of BPA Worldwide that Spark Find
6 | January 2012 | woman this month Letters Live Like There’s No Tomorrow STAR LETTER Write Here Write Now 63 woman this month | December 2011 | 62 | December 2011 | woman this month 8FMMCFJOH "MJTPO $PMESJEHF 5he Christmas period can be a rollercoaster of emotions and activity. Over-indulging and extensive socialising can leave even the keenest shopper and hard core partier feeling exhausted. You need to make sure that you take some time to pamper yourself so that it really does remain the season of goodwill! wSimple beauty remedies can have a huge impact on you both internally and externally, and, let’s face it girls, sometimes we do just need to spoil and beautify ourselves. The Woman This Month team has selected 12 treatments for the 12 days of Christmas to ensure you stay looking and feeling fabulous. Best of all, the treatments are all at-home remedies, so you don’t even need to leave the comfort of your own house. 1. The glowing honey and apple face mask Start off the 12 treatments with a face mask that simultaneously moisturises, cleanses, removes dirt and fights against premature signs of ageing. The honey exfoliates the skin whilst retaining moisture and the apple gently hydrates and tones for an instant glow. Blend an apple and add two tablespoons of honey. Refrigerate the mixture for ten minutes. Pat the mixture onto your face lightly and leave on for 30 minutes. 2. The voluminous banana hair mask Your hair needs deep and attentive nourishment in order to become supple, shiny and strong — just what you need for all of those Christmas events you have coming up. Bananas are great for softening hair whilst promoting growth by soothing the scalp. Peel two bananas and puree them in a blender. Add three tables of mayonnaise and one tablespoon of olive oil. Apply to the hair and leave on for 30 minutes. 3. The relieving lemon hand cream As the two external parts of your body that do the most work, your hands need special attention. So on day three, wrench them out from the washing up bowl and massage them with some of this relieving hand cream. Peel one banana and blend. Add four tablespoons of honey, three tablespoons of lemon juice and two tablespoons of margarine, and blend until smooth. Rub mixture onto hands. Leave overnight. 4BJM UISPVHI $ISJTUNBT TNPPUIMZ CZ USZJOH TJNQMF USFBUNFOUT UP FOTVSF ZPV SFNBJO DBMN BOE GSFTI UISPVHIPVU UIF FOUJSF GFTUJWF TFBTPO $ISJTUNBT 5IF 5SFBUNFOUT PG 4. The soothing cucumber eye gel This treatment will give you instantly brighter eyes. The cucumber calms and cools tired eyes by soothing the eye contour and simultaneously encouraging plumper skin, so that you look and feel fresher throughout day four. Blend quarter of a large cucumber until a little pulp is left. Transfer into a glass bowl and mix in one ounce of aloe vera gel. Gently apply to the under eye area. 5. The cleansing blueberry toner Blueberries are one of the strongest sources of antioxidants, which effectively neutralise damaging free radicals that can create skin cell damage and premature skin ageing. This toner will clear skin for a smooth and undamaged complexion. Blend three tablespoons of blueberries. Add half a cup of sour cream or plain yoghurt. Refrigerate for one hour. Apply to the face and leave for 15-20 minutes. 6. The firming egg anti wrinkle cream Surprisingly, egg whites act as a mask upon the skin and encourage firming and tightening of the facial skin. This cream is ideal as a quick fix on day six and helps minimise visible signs of ageing. Beat one egg white until crisp. Blend in two tablespoons of cucumber juice, one tablespoon of lemon juice and one tablespoon of rum or brandy. Keep the mixture in the fridge for two hours. Massage into the face and neck, leave on for 15 minutes and rinse off. 7. The detoxifying floral steam treatment Heating the facial skin with hot steam opens all of the pores, allowing for all the dirt to be removed. As well as being a great detox treatment, the process will also calm you. Drop some lavender flowers into a large pan of warm water and add a few drops of lavender, patchouli and tea tree essential oils. Heat the ingredients for a few minutes and pour into a large bowl. Cover your head with a towel and lean over the bowl to breathe in the aroma for about 10-15 minutes. 8. The gentle hair remover Waxing can be expensive and painful and, quite frankly, something entirely unenjoyable! This treatment uses only natural products that are good enough to eat, and allows you to take your time in the comfort of your own home. Dust the area to be waxed with cornstarch. Mix together the juice from half a lemon, one cup of sugar and quarter of a cup of honey in a glass bowl and microwave for two minutes. Stop and stir the mixture every 20-30 seconds and then let it cool down until gently warm. Use a wooden stick to spread a thin layer onto your skin. Cover the mixture with a strip of cotton fabric and stroke the strip in the direction of the hair growth. Pull the skin taut and rip away the strip against the direction of the hair growth. 9. The healing peppermint lip scrub The harsh winter weather conditions often prompt chapped and sore lips which need tending to. Take day nine to get lippy; scrub away the dry skin and build up and soothe the under skin with calming oils and Vitamin E. Pour half a teaspoon of brown sugar and half a teaspoon of caster sugar into a bowl. Add a few drops of peppermint oil, almond oil and Vitamin E oil. Dab a small amount onto the lips and rub together to gently exfoliate. Leave for a few minutes and then wipe off. 10. The divine Champagne bubble bath Champagne is always a treat and an even bigger one when you are bathing in it. This remedy has to be the ultimate in luxurious relaxation, giving you an excuse to soak and a chance to unwind on day ten. Heat water and stir in quarter of a cup of foaming soap concentrate and one tablespoon of glycerine until completely dissolved. Add quarter of a teaspoon of champagne fragrance oil and half a teaspoon of salt and stir. Allow mixture to cool and then add to your bath. 11. The energising ginger skin crème One of the most festive spices is a wonder for skin. Ginger invigorates and boosts circulation in the skin so that your complexion is smooth and glowing, giving you the appearance of vitality (even when you aren’t feeling it). Grate a two-inch piece of fresh ginger and squeeze over a small glass bowl to extract the juice. Add in two teaspoons of light sesame oil, two teaspoons of apricot kernel oil, two teaspoons of vitamin E oil and half a cup of cocoa butter. Heat the bowl until the cocoa butter has melted. Let the mixture cool and then apply to the face. 12. The brightening nail treatment Women can often end up being the ones chained to the kitchen stove during Christmas and day twelve’s treatment gives your hardworking fingers that little bit of attention they really deserve. Saturate one denture tablet with a few drops of essential oil. Drop the tablet into a small bowl of warm water. Soak fingertips for ten minutes. A Great Variety I like the article “The 12 Treatments of Christmas”. It was really fun to read and it made it so easy to get involved. Alison provided some amazing, simple treatments which can help you be a fabulous version of yourself. The remedies were all very straight forward and easy to make at home — such fun! I also thought the “Health in Check” article was really informative. Thanks to Dr. Shahid for stressing the need for regular medical checks as so many women neglect to do this and it can lead to bad problems down the line. I love the magazine. Keep it up! Samina, by email. WRITE IN AND WIN Send your letter to editor@womanthismonth. com, by fax to 17 813-700 or by post to PO Box 20461, Manama. The star letter will get the chance to attend three free classes of their choice at Life-Fit — the brilliant lifestyle and fitness centre in Budaiya. Choose between Zumba, Dance-Fit, Boot Camp and many more! I attended the Woman This Month Fitness Day Out on December 10 and I just wanted to say that it was a really great day. The event was really unique and unlike any that I have seen or visited in Bahrain before. I think it is so great that WTM was putting effort into helping the women in Bahrain achieve their health and fitness goals. I enjoyed taking the free Zumba class — the instructor was really lively and it was a good workout. I also liked looking around all the stalls and testing out the beauty, spa and nutrition products. I really hope that WTM does more of these events in the future as I think it was a really worthwhile day and should definitely be repeated. I would definitely come again! Sarah, by email. Fitness Fun for Everyone! My regards to the team of Woman This Month. While browsing through December edition of the magazine, I came across “The End is Nigh”. The excitement of New Year filled my bones as I read the article. The write-up is remarkable. The concern about whether 2012 will be our last one is very pervasive and it is something we have all been thinking about. With a continuous feeling of alarm and apprehension about Bahrain, due to all the unrest, this article was a great antidote. It lightened my mood and made me think of life in a more relaxed way. The magic of the article is its enthusiasm; it challenged me to follow my dreams. It redefines the phrase “every cloud has a silver lining”, in order to help us realise the worth of every moment on this earth. The writer cleverly concludes with mixed feelings and keeps us wondering what might happen next and encourages us all to go out there and get what we want. There are so many dreams waiting to be fulfilled. It was an amazing boost for the coming year. Heena, by email. 88 | December 2011 | woman this month 8hen I call my mother every New Year’s Eve, she always says: “I just don’t know where the year has gone.” Apparently, the years go by faster for her than for the rest of us. Had she lived in Bahrain this past year, 2011 could not have gone by fast enough. It was a year we have simply had to endure since February. Most of us, at some point, came to terms with the idea that 2011, in Bahrain, wasn’t going to be the year we wanted it to be. And so we enter 2012. This year, the phrase “Happy New Year” will be shouted with more than just a little joy and anticipation. “H.N.Y. my BFF’s” and may the following twelve months be filled with everything you want from life. It had better be! According to the Mayan calendar, 21.12.2012, is supposed to be the date marking the end of our planet. Although we might all be a touch sceptical about this sort of declaration, sometimes it can feel like it might be worth living each day as if it were your last. And who’s to say that it isn’t? Over the last decade, it has felt a bit like the earth is pitting itself against us. Tornadoes have raged with destructive force, earthquakes have caused Tsunamis which have wiped the earth clean of entire cities. The force of the planet seems to be getting stronger, volcanoes have shut down airspace numerous times in the past few years and wreaked havoc with entire industries. Is this the year we all go up in smoke? And if it is, how should I spend the twelve month countdown? Personally, I’d prefer to take my entire life’s savings and spend the last 300 or so days left on the planet aimlessly wandering it, seeing as many cultures and cities as possible. I’d buy those Prada skirts and dresses I always wished I could afford, buy the shoes I dream will make me a tall strutting goddess and accessorise with the handbags of the rich and famous. )BSE IFBEFE 8PNBO 5IF &OE JT /JHI The only hiccup with that thought, though, is what happens on the 22nd of December? What if the world does not end? I would have been the silly one, having spent a life’s savings. I would have no house and be broke, only to have to work and toil away the rest of my days because I went wild and spent everything in 2012. Mind you, I would look fabulous while doing it! But on the other hand, if I save my cash, stay in my job and continue paying the mortgage and the world ends on 21st December, then even the aliens in outer space are going to be laughing at my stupidity. Who, having had centuries of forewarning about the world’s end date, would continue to bank their cash in full and not have as much fun as they possibly could? As they say: “You can’t take it with you.” So what to do? The same as every other year, month and day I presume. You see, even though this time we have been given a precise date, the fact is we could be on a countdown today or tomorrow or any day. We never actually know when the last day could be for any of us. Why should we wait to live life? You don’t have to be utterly frivolous and illogical about it, but you can be sensible and at the same time make an effort to do something fun and enjoy yourself each day that you have. Live every day with no regrets. Do it your way, ungoverned by the pointless rules of others. Be free in mind and spirit and do that which challenges you, excites you and makes every day worth waking up for. Do it for yourself. You are the Queen of your world. Whether today, tomorrow or December 21st 2012 is the last day, live life to the fullest, be responsible and let whatever happens, happen. I’m off to put a deposit on a sexy little mini skirt I’ve had my eyes on for weeks. Happy New Year girls! 8P.FOUBMJUZ
8 | January 2012 | woman this month Shopping It’s 2012 at last. The turkey leftovers have all been gobbled up and you have partied your socks off in celebration of all that the New Year will bring. It’s time to start paying attention to your resolutions, so how about starting with being everywhere on time? You’ll probably need a brand new watch for that! Next. Available in Bahrain City Centre Michael Kors. Available in Bahrain City Centre Gucci. Available in Moda Mall. Longines. Available at Modern Art Studio on Al Khalifa Ave. Bvlgari. Available in Moda Mall NEW THIS MONTH Time for the New Year D&G. Available in Moda Mall Piaget. Available in Moda Mall Very.co.uk
10 | January 2012 | woman this month Shopping W hat other way to bring in the New Year than with a dabble in fashion’s most daring designs. The likes of Holly Fulton and Mary Katrantzou have inspired a wash of futuristic and architectural designs. Geometric shapes are appearing all over the fashion spectrum, from panelled evening dresses to casual skirts and t-shirts. Look for bold colour blocks and stick to the more simple shapes and lines. Rectangles Squares & Asos Jonathan Saunders at Debenhams Kenneth Cole at House of Fraser Marks and Spencer East Missguided.co.uk Pied a Terre at House of Fraser New Look
12 | January 2012 | woman this month Shopping If the Shoe-Boot Fits Shoe-boots have been all the rage for absolutely ages and our lust for them isn’t looking to die down any time soon. So many designers and brands have invested heavily in the shoe-boot with some truly unique designs making their way into a store near you. We are especially loving the fetish-inspired creations— buckles and studs a plenty! Christian Louboutin Dune Dorothy Perkins Alexander McQueen Pilot Shoe Zone Carolina Herrera New Look Next Louis Vuitton
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Interview In-flight to In-vent From Gaynor Morgan speaks to Annabelle Godwin of her journey from Gulf Air Stewardess to inventress of one of the most useful female products on the market. Gaynor Morgan is something of a phenomenon. At the age of 20 she decided to up and leave the safety of the UK to take up a position as a Gulf Air stewardess in Bahrain. Although many women have made similar decisions before her, it is what she did with the opportunity that really strikes a chord among the ambitious and independent women among us. It is fairly common for women in the Gulf to slip into a well-paid position, especially one with the benefit of travel, and to stay in the same job for a decade without noticing the time pass. While this is a fine idea if it suits you and keeps you satisfied, there are others who use these sorts of jobs as a platform or leverage to further themselves even more. Not satisfied with remaining a member of the in-flight crew, Gaynor decided to look at what else Gulf Air might be able to offer her. “Gulf Air has one of the toughest training programmes for safety and survival”, she recalls. Speaking of this training, Gaynor says, “It taught me a great deal about discipline and self-control”. Her career progression within the famous airline didn’t stop there, however. Within four years Gaynor was promoted to purser in charge of cabin crew flying on B737 B767 and L1011 aircrafts. She continued in her 14 | January 2012 | woman this month
15 woman this month | January 2012 | role of safety and survival instructor at the same time. “Gulf Air made me who I am today”, says Gaynor. “It taught me management skills, which I still use today in my own business. It shaped the way I am now able to deal with all sorts of people from all walks of life”. During her time at Gulf Air she came in to contact with the full spectrum of humankind. “One day I would be serving a Royal and the next I would be interacting with a labourer who earned about 50BD a month for hours of arduous work”, she remembers. This experience proved entirely invaluable. “Now, dealing with large retail stores and distributors with C&G Medicare Ltd., I need the best sort of negotiating skills. Living in Bahrain, dealing with tricky customers and haggling in the souk gave me a great head start!” Unfortunately for Gaynor, although her career in Bahrain had been looking to bear some exciting fruit, the region hit troubled times and her situation changed. Her time in the Middle East was interrupted by the first Gulf War, during which she helped evacuate passengers to safer, nearby countries. “After the Gulf War things were very difficult for everyone in Bahrain,” says Gaynor, “Bahrain changed, leaving many local people jobless. Gulf Air were encouraging Bahrainis to apply for jobs within the airline. All the expatriates holding teaching positions in the safety school were made redundant.” After a stint as an English teacher for the British Council, Gaynor realised that her career in the Gulf was drawing to a close. Although she didn’t immediately move back to the UK, she still made regular trips back to the place of her roots. It was during one of these visits back that she became inspired to embark on the most important venture of her life. “My mother Carole had started having problems with incontinence around the age of 40. At 45 the incontinence was such an issue she had the TVT operation (a procedure to help women with stress incontinence). Although this worked on a temporary basis, a few years later the symptoms returned”, she explains. Gaynor, witnessing her mother’s embarrassment, set about trying to find a solution. Millions of women experience incontinence, largely due to insufficient strength of their pelvic floor muscles. Some may lose a few drops of urine while running or coughing, while others may feel a strong, sudden urge to urinate just before losing a large amount. Many women experience both upsetting symptoms. Incontinence can range from slightly bothersome to totally demoralising and, for many women, the risk of public embarrassment stops them enjoying many activities and impacts on their quality of life. Additionally urine loss can also occur during sex and cause tremendous emotional distress. As incontinence isn’t a life threatening condition, very little money is spent on research. The most common solution offered for incontinence is pads, which only hide the problem but never solve it. Gaynor and Carole were looking for a more permanent solution. Carole and Gaynor began brainstorming. During one of their discussions about the intricacies of the condition, Carole mentioned that the problem was not so bad when she was menstruating. After some research they discovered that when Carole wore a tampon it went some way to support the urethra and the exerted pressure was able to gently suppress the loss of urine, while not interfering with the normal flow. Knowing the dangers of using a tampon outside the recommended period they decided to look for a re-usable tampon. There was nothing available, and so they made their first working prototype in 1998. Testing the design, “she started doing star jumps in the middle of the kitchen,'’ says Gaynor, “and though she had a full bladder, she didn't leak at all. ‘It works, it works!’ she yelled. She wore it every day after that, and started to go out again without the slightest leak.” Gaynor financed her business with savings earned with Gulf Air. The product they developed grew from strength to strength. What started as a daughter’s attempt to help her mother with an embarrassing condition has now won many international awards [DASH] and has transformed the lives of thousands of others who suffer from incontinence and pelvic floor weakness. Gaynor works on a personal level with her distributors, ensuring that the right information and advertising is given. She supports them in promotions and raising awareness about the incontinence issue and has been commended by her government for the amazing work she is doing. For more information visit www.incostess.com
Interview Totally in Charge Young, Fun and Woman This Month Editor Natasha Bird chats to journalist, designer and talented entrepreneur Wafa Alobaidat about creativity, social media and the key to early success. Post millennium we have seen a wonderfully steady increase in daring, young entrepreneurialism. This is fantastic because it means that the shape of modern business is continually transforming. The success of the latest generation of super-youths is largely down to a clever ability to take advantage of new media environments. Social networking, digital artwork, viral advertising — these are the key components of efficacy in the 21st century. There is a dangerous trend, though, that sees new media as an exclusively “young” concept. If older businesses are to compete with their younger rivals, they are going to have to get on board, but can you really teach an old dog new tricks? I sat down with Wafa Alobaidat who, in her early 20s, has already set up and oversees popular niche magazine Sketchbook and runs successful design agency Obai and Hill, to talk about her own achievements and the need for better understanding of social networking and digital design in Bahrain. 16 | January 2012 | woman this month
17 woman this month | January 2012 | Tell us a bit about your businesses: I set up Sketchbook magazine in 2009, after having worked for a number of luxury magazines, including Vogue China. I just felt that there was something missing in many of these high-end magazines; something that was going unexplored. I think that interactivity is really important and I was getting frustrated by the need to conform to strict word counts and space allowance. I wanted to find a way to marry blogging, social media, art in the city and fashion under one roof, so to speak. I used my experience from my art degree and we got people to draw and sketch some of the most current and respected voices — Susie Bubble, Henry Holland, the Sartorialist, for example. It was creative and, incidentally, it was also one of the cheapest ways we could have chosen to be productive! I think part of Sketchbook’s success is down to sheer determination and persistence. I met with at least five people a day for about a year. Obai and Hill grew organically out of the process that I had started with Sketchbook. People began requesting the illustrations. They wanted us to make t-shirts, cards, invitations and eventually advertising packs. I saw a new gap in the market and I moved in to fill it. I set up an agency which concerns itself with graphics, illustrations, websites and design consultancy. How do you think your youth has affected your work? In the beginning it was really hard. Website designers and illustrators would laugh when I asked them to work for me. I had to do a lot of problem solving. I had to convince hundreds of people to put their faith in me and do work for free. I began emailing people so that they wouldn’t see me face-to-face and underestimate me. I had to be proactive about it and I didn’t let myself get fazed by people not being interested. I’d just say, “Okay, thank you for your time, don’t worry if it’s not for you”. But I always wanted to do it this way. I know that in my 20s I have the most energy and passion that I will ever have. I needed to set up my businesses quickly so that I could develop the brands and maintain them. What do you think explains the success of your two businesses? With Sketchbook, we aren’t in the business of telling people what to do. We ask them what they would like to do for us. It is about celebrating people’s unique individualities, the talents that make them special. Once you take an interest in someone else’s work, they become incredibly willing to go above and beyond for you. We ended up receiving some of the coolest and most unique content, purely because we took the time to check out their previous work, their blogs and their interests before talking to them. Obai and Hill is willing to take on all sorts of challenges. We have helped to shape brands, providing them with fun newsletters, advertising packages and web designs. We’ve produced custom t-shirts, put tearaway lyrics on canvas bags. It’s a constantly creative process and it generates a different, interesting impression for companies. What do you think of Bahrain’s relationship with online technology? I still feel that people in Bahrain tend to be relatively uneducated about what PR and social media is all about. They don’t often look past the basics and people see it as a luxury rather than a necessity. There is a bit of a cultural gap. Islam is a very reserved religion and people worry about too much information being disseminated, but there are ways to prevent things being out of your comfort zone and, at the end of the day, if you don’t embrace these sorts of online advances, you’ll be left behind. Online tools are completely invaluable. Sketchbook is available online, in PDF and in print, we have our own online video channel and we keep track of all our users and subscribers via Twitter or Facebook. Content can be offered in so many different ways, so why not take advantage of all of them? People love new and different experiences — it keeps them hooked. What do you reckon is the most useful online tool? Twitter, without a doubt. It gives you the fastest record of response. You can tell very quickly whether an idea is appealing or destined for success. People love to feel like they are being heard. We had a follower who kept sending us Twitpics of her artwork as she developed it. I didn’t know what to make of it at first, but it turned out to be dedicated to Sketchbook and we loved it so much we did a whole piece on it for the blog! It also gives you an amazing, direct access to many of your idols and allows you the immediacy of being able to see what other creative people are up to at any time. It’s not too difficult to get the hang of Twitter. You just have to be willing to give it a go. Do you think online resources will eclipse print publishing? No, I think they work hand-in-hand. I read about ten to 20 blogs a day, but I don’t keep them or go back to them. Whereas I love to buy Brownbook, Monacle, Wallpaper or, of course, Woman This Month. Sometimes you want to collect things and savour them. Print is a different experience — there is an association with quality and durability. I make room for both print and online publications in my life. Final message? The online world has changed, in fact made, my career, My experience wouldn’t have been possible without all the amazing online resources. So my advice is to always have an online strategy. Don’t be left behind, assuming social networks are just for young people or personal use. Get with the programme!
18 | January 2012 | woman this month 10 Tips 1. Identify your goal This is the most significant step. Everyone has a different vision of success in life. Do some self-reflection to decide what is most important to you. Think big and aim high. Be ambitious and break out of your comfort zone. 2. Plan it out It doesn’t really matter what you’ve chosen as your true calling. Your next step is to form an action plan for achieving this goal. It may take a lifetime, but the only way you’re going to get there is by thinking ahead. 3. Think possible You are limited by what you think you can do. You never know what you are capable of until you do it. Don’t give yourself excuses. Be positive, go ahead and just do it. 4. Think less, do more You won’t get anywhere by daydreaming alone. You need to take some powerful action to get there. Greatness isn’t just going to fall in your lap. 5. Baby steps Yours might be a very intimidating and daunting task. But it doesn’t have to be when you divide things into small, manageable steps. It’s vital to take life day by day and, at the same time, keep the bigger picture in mind. This way, you’ll build momentum without getting too overwhelmed. Remember, baby steps add up, become habits and build confidence and certainty. 6. Surround yourself with positive people When you have someone you can look up to and model yourself on, you’re bringing yourself one step closer to your target. It’s always better to be in the company of those who can inspire, motivate and encourage you. 7. Face your challenges It’s common to face setbacks. Things are not always going to turn out like you expect, but that is part of the journey. When you hit a snag in the road, you need to pick yourself up, change course, and move on. If it has got you down in the dumps, take a short break, then get back on that horse! 8. Be passionate, be enthusiastic Enjoy what you do. Be focused. Do your work every day and be down-to-earth. Do not think of what you can get in return for any task. When you give your best, the rest will take care of itself. 9. Perseverance is key Achieving greatness is a continuous journey. There is no real destination. Working consistently and persistently is the way to go. It is about working hard and working smart over a long period of time. 10. You are already there Every once in a while, it’s important to take a step back and reflect. Are you enjoying your life? If so, then you’re actually already living your dream. Remember, all you’ll ever have is the present moment. If you like where you are and where you’re going, greatness is already yours. Believe it or not, everyone has the potential to achieve greatness. Here are 10 ways to tap into and channel your strengths for success. Steps to Greatness 10 Elma Bartholomew
20 | January 2012 | woman this month WTM Walking up to the roof of the InterContinental Regency in Bahrain, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were about to spend the day lazing around by the glistening waters of their enormous pool, basking in the warm glow of the winter sun and enjoying the soothing sound of the poolside music and the gentle breeze as it seeps through the bamboo wall coverings. Think again. At the Woman This Month Fitness Day Out, rest and relaxation was not the aim of the game! The team over at the Red House offices had an entirely different idea in mind for this particular sunny Saturday. Armed with a good sports bra and some shiny new trainers, the women who attended the fitness day out got a healthy dose of freebies, fitness and a whole lot of fun! The Fitness Classes The WTM team put together a stellar line-up of FREE classes, instructed by some of the best and most experienced personal trainers from a variety of great venues in Bahrain. To kick off the day, we started with an excellent Yoga and Pilates breathing class from Rasila Savani. We moved on to an extremely useful physiotherapy class from VLCC gym — which taught us how best to prepare our bodies and muscles for cardiovascular activities and how to stretch them afterwards in order to prevent stiffness. Some Good Old Cardio Towards lunchtime, we cranked it up a notch by getting stuck into some cardiovascular exercises. The wonderful ladies from Fitness First taught a high-energy, motivational “body attack” class, wherein they had us jogging, squatting, dancing and whooping with delight Woman This Month strives to inspire the female population of Bahrain to get fit, healthy and feeling great! Here’s a look at our brilliant December Fitness Day Out. A Brand New Bahrain
21 woman this month | January 2012 | as we worked up a sweat. They followed this with a great “body balance” session, to soothe each muscle group. Other cardio and toning classes included the innovative Tabata interval training session from Kate at Kinetix, Elite Seef Residence; a fantastic and truly enlightening Shotokan Karate session from Sensei Amr and Debbie Al Asfoor over at the Bahrain Karate Academy; a good and gruelling power abs class from Ryan at the InterContinental Regency and an extremely exciting and terribly fun jumping class from Alina Comanici at Kangoo Jumps. We had a great time watching Alina and her jumping girls strap on their special boots for a demo by the pool and it was even more delightful to be able to join in her special aerobics routine afterwards in the studio. Get Your Groove on! It wouldn’t have been a women’s fitness day without some dancing now would it? To satisfy all the women out there who love a good boogie, we had not one, not two but THREE dance-style fitness classes! The gorgeous Adriana Costa from Life-Fit in Budaiya came and gave us a latin and aerobics inspired Dance-Fit class, to the sound of some seriously catchy beats. Then later on, we hosted an overwhelmingly popular Zumba class, brought to us by the wonderful Dessange. To finish off the day, we were delighted to take part in a fun-filled salsa class, taught by Ali Madan from Pars Hotel. Ali and his beautiful assistants had us shaking our hips, wiggling our thighs, jumping, clapping and grinning from ear to ear — we couldn’t recommend the experience more! While You Were Waiting As if a day of free fitness sample classes wasn’t enough! Whilst the women at the event were waiting for one class to finish and the next to start, they had the fantastic opportunity to wander around, having a look at all the stalls. We brought you some of the most experienced experts to talk about nutrition, spa treatments, new machines, personal training, sportswear and, if you were very lucky, to treat you to a free sample massage The Diplomat, Sofitel and Regency were all present to lead you through a variety of health and beauty treatments, such as the Sofitel’s thalassotherapy massages and the Diplomat’s incredible menu of facials. We also had a beautiful, specially designed and built woodland scene from the lovely ladies over at Flo Motionwear, who were present to show us their trendy fitness threads, perfect for day or night. Nanda and Binu from Gulf Pharmacy had a range of products for you to test out and talk about and Sheikha Lulwa from Equilibre spent the day being an absolute saint — offering us samples of her green tea sweeties and her fresh fruit arrangements.. We even had the amazingly stylish girls from Toni & Guy salon come along to show us their GHDs, great products and to demonstrate some cool hair styles on their models. Until Next Time… We have had some amazing feedback from many of the women who attended our first EVER Fitness Day Out! Thank you to everyone of our fantastic clients for your participation and your continued support. We hope to see even more of you next time, for some more fitness fun in the sun!
22 | January 2012 | woman this month Social Butterfly WTM Fitness Day Out On December 10 Woman This Month hosted an amazing one off event at the InterContinental Regency. The Woman This Month Fitness Day Out was a day-long combination of fabulous FREE fitness classes from some of the best and most experienced instructors in the region, coupled with some exciting fitness demonstrations and heaps of great stalls, offering health, fitness and product advice. Everyone who came left with a grin from ear to ear! Debbie Al Asfoor, Shaikha Fajer, Shaikha Haya, Alison Coldridge, Anne Middleton & guests who attended the event Shubha Justine & Gillie Binu, Amal, Rafiya & Nanda Kumar Julie & Lubna Ameena & Habiba Pauline & Aliona Sita, Andrea & Wafaa Cap Kim, Justine, Karen, Amby & Liezyl
23 woman this month | January 2012 | Rose, Joseph & Babie Lubna, Adriana & Rose Louise, Sue & Deanne Debbie, Wafaa, Loubna, Sadeqah & Ilhem Haya & Amani Mrs Kanoo gets a massage, seen here with Anne One of the classes in session Blessy & Anna Shani & Lavina Esky & Natasha Marianna, Alina, Samar & Oana
24 | January 2012 | woman this month Showcase Whatever your dermatological needs are, Sofitel’s exclusive sea-water treatment spa will be sure to satisfy them, thanks to a huge range of packages and experiences to choose from. Sofitel's Thalassa Sea & Spa is a blissful world of complete tranquility. Entering into the spa, you are instantly engulfed by a sense of calm which stays with you throughout your experience. Sea views surround the treatment rooms and soft aromatic scents fill the air. The spa is entirely unique to Bahrain, and offers treatments that are innovative and effective. The component around which all of the products and treatments are centred is sea water; the sea contains all the trace elements, minerals and vitamins that are vital to the balance of our body and Sofitel’s Thalassa Sea & Spa harnesses these active ingredients to be absorbed by the body. The result is all-encompassing — a more balanced, healthy and serene you with smoother, clearer and glowing skin. You can take advantage of the spa’s treatments through a number of packages available. Each package has been designed specifically to achieve a different goal and you are entitled to free access to the wellness area; indoor seawater and infinity heated pools, steam room and sauna. Exquisite beauty breaks If you are feeling slightly un-radiant and need some sprucing up, chose a Beauty Break package. Be ‘Simply Spoiled’ in a three-day programme where you will be cleansed in the under water shower massage and body scrub, followed by complete relaxation in aqua yoga and a full-body massage ending with a deep cleansing purifying facial and a head massage. Or indulge in an oxygenating break for the senses, where you will spend two and a half hours undergoing an O2 intensive oxygenating facial, plus an oxygen bubble body treatment by the Spa’s brand of choice, Aquascience. Let’s not forget that men also need some pampering. They can select the ‘Gentleman package’ — a specialised treatment inclusive of a deep hydrating facial and an invigorating body scrub, followed by an anti-stress body massage to ease muscular discomfort. Or take advantage of a couple’s pampering package, which is the most romantic way to spend a day, with a body scrub, massage, deluxe facial and some tea to finish up. Renewing marine breaks If you want to completely unwind, the ‘Absolute Rejuvenation’ is a comprehensive package that allows you to select the three treatments you have. Decide between an underwater massage, body scrub with Vichy shower, hydro massage bath and hydro body mass. Just what you need Aside from the pre-formed packages, you can of course book any one of the beauty expertise facials, body treatments by Aquascience, marine scrubs and wrap experiences, massages and spa essentials — which are all perfect for slotting into an hour’s gap, targeting the specific area that you feel needs revitalising. Call 16 636-363. A Sea Break SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA
Thalassa sea & spa, The wellfare brand of accor group. 16 ThalassoTherapy and spa desTinaTions in france, iTaly & morocco relaxation & rejuvenation at “sofitel Thalassa sea & spa” Thalassa treatments are based on seawater & sea products. The sea contains all the trace elements, minerals and vitamins that are vital to the balance of our body. The extensive Thalassa sea & spa complex covers 2,000 square meters. The complex features 14 treatment rooms, seawater hydrotherapy, massages and wellness programs. Facilities include a seawater hydrotherapy pool, a freshwater pool, saunas, steam rooms, hairdresser for men and beauty salon for women. 105 Zallaq HigHway, Building 2015, Block 1055 Zallaq TEl : +973 17 636363 For rEsErvaTion : +973 17 636391 E-mail : [email protected] www.sofiTel.com www.Thalassa.com now open Thalassa sea & spa at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq first hotel in the gcc to offer thalassotherapy
26 | January 2012 | woman this month Showcase Gianne Middleton heads to Dessange for a complete head-to-toe makeover. Here’s her full report… A s the new-year rolls in, rich winter temptations are poised and ready to undo the hard work we have put in during the summer months. However, instead of lamenting that extra mince pie you scoffed, take the time to allow yourself to indulge and reflect in the positive accomplishments of last year. Why not start 2012 as you mean to continue — by being really, really good to yourself! When it comes to attention, relaxation and pampering, I was lucky enough to be given the full works! The Dessange Paris Health Club is a real gem. Nestled in the bustling streets of Adliya, this oasis of calm is a treat for all the women who enter. To start the day, I was introduced to Marian, my personal trainer with over several years of experience. We began with the power plate, where the goal was to tone my muscles, reduce cellulite and help me lose weight. While initially apprehensive about using such an imposing looking machine, after carrying out a series of exercises, including 30 second lunges, squats, kicks and planks, I was a total convert. I am a runner who doesn’t shy away from an athletic challenge, however after 30 minutes my heart rate had substantially increased as with any standard circuit-training regime. The power plate machine vibrates at around 900 contractions per 30 second, which intensifies the various movements carried out atop the platform. At the end of the session I was told to lie upon the vibrating plate while Marian intensely massaged both my thighs. Aside from increasing metabolic rate and improving blood flow, it takes only several sessions for members to see fitness and weightloss results. Following my workout, I was led to a private steam room where I was treated to a full, authentic 45 minute Moroccan bath, complete with an exclusive range of Moroccan oils, herbs and black soap. A wonderful way to exfoliate the skin, the attendant identified my skin type and then proceeded to use a kassa glove, which you are able to keep with you after the sessions and re-use upon subsequent visits, to slough away my dead skin. Feeling refreshed, I then experienced an aromatic massage, coupled with the Precious Care facial, an energising ritual using clay and precious stone extracts, which left my skin with a wonderful healthy glow. My indulgent experience culminated with a combination manicure and pedicure treatment, followed by delicate makeup and an elegant up-do, preparing me completely for a night out on the town. It was a truly brilliant day and the staff showed infinite expertise. So, whatever the New Year brings you, be sure to celebrate its advent with a trip to the wonderful Dessange! Call 17 713-999. The Complete Works DESSANGE
28 | January 2012 | woman this month Showcase O ver the years, it seems that plastic surgery has become a moneymaking business, rather than a branch of medicine. However, Dr. Abeer Isa Alkebaisi plans to bring it back to its ethical roots. The former consultant in plastic and reconstructive surgery in Saudi Arabia’s well known Saad Specialist Hospital opened her own clinic in 2009. Providing individualised aesthetic surgical care, the clinic’s in-house services include chin liposuction, face injections, cheek augmentation or filling, facial filling in general, elevation of the eyebrows, nose job through fillers, lip injection and a wide variety of laser machines. Apart from laser hair removal, using the most up to date technology, the clinic also uses laser machines for skin rejuvenation, resurfacing and weight loss. “The Ematrix is also an exciting service offered here, by generating heat under the skin, new collagen is created. It’s used for a number of things; including tightening of the skin and reducing stretch marks,” explains the doctor. As part of the Dr Abeer’s awareness initiative, the clinic will be holding a workshop this month, highlighting the benefits of the Ematrix machine. The latest version of the already well known Vela shape machine is also available; where two types of radiations are used; radio frequency and infrared, along with massage to re-circulate the blood. As for the surgical services, she offers head-to-toe procedures, including face and neck lifts, lower and upper lid blepharoplasty, cosmetic breast surgery, breast reduction, rhinoplasty and liposuction. “The most commonly asked for procedures have so far been liposuction and breast augmentation. As for office procedures, injections and botox are very popular. When a patient comes to me, I consider and analyse their problem, look into the pros and cons of the solution and also what suits the patient best. If someone comes in with an unreasonable expectation then we explain to them that the surgery will affect their health. I’m very selective with my cases. If I know that it may lead to post-surgery complications, then we won’t continue, my patient’s safety comes first.” Dr Abeer holds her consultations at the clinic and performs her surgeries at the Bahrain Specialist Hospital. The first female plastic surgeon in the region of Bahraini origin, the surgeon completed her medical education in both Ireland and France with three masters’ degrees in burns and the surgical treatment, cosmetic and therapeutic injections and surgical treatments and reconstruction of skin tumours. Specialising in cosmetic surgery and cosmetic medicine, Dr.Abeer also has an AFS/AFSA France fellowship in plastic and reconstructive surgery as well as an AFRC from Ireland. Call 17 820-988. As the cosmetics field keeps evolving, a new and improved you is only a visit away with Dr.Abeer Cosmoplastic Clinic. Plastic Surgery at Its Best DR. ABEER COSMOPLASTIC CLINIC
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