Health & Fitness
Discovering the Perfect Yoga Spots in the UAE
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is renowned for its luxury, innovation, and cultural richness. Amidst the bustling cities and striking landscapes, the UAE also offers serene spots perfect for yoga enthusiasts seeking a harmonious balance between mind and body. From tranquil beaches to lush parks and state-of-the-art studios, we get down to discovering the Perfect Yoga Spots in the UAE.
Beachfront Bliss: Yoga by the Sea
1. Kite Beach, Dubai
Kite Beach is not only a hotspot for kite surfers but also an ideal location for yoga lovers. The expansive sandy shores provide ample space for yoga practitioners to unroll their mats and breathe in the fresh sea air. Many local instructors offer early morning and sunset yoga sessions here, allowing participants to enjoy the calming sounds of the waves. The beach’s proximity to cafes and restaurants also makes it convenient for post-yoga refreshments.
2. Corniche Beach, Abu Dhabi
Corniche Beach in Abu Dhabi is another stunning location for beachfront yoga. The beautifully maintained stretch of sand, coupled with the serene views of the Arabian Gulf, creates a perfect backdrop for a relaxing yoga session. Regular classes are held by the water’s edge, often attracting both locals and tourists. The Corniche area also boasts excellent facilities, including shaded areas, showers, and eateries, making it a comprehensive spot for a day of relaxation.
Urban Retreats: Yoga in the City
3. Dubai Marina Walk
Dubai Marina Walk is an urban oasis where yoga enthusiasts can practice amidst the vibrant cityscape. This picturesque waterfront promenade is lined with cafes, boutiques, and green spaces, making it a popular spot for outdoor yoga. The Marina’s tranquil waters and stunning skyscrapers provide a unique contrast, enhancing the overall yoga experience. Evening yoga sessions here are particularly popular, offering cooler temperatures and beautiful views of the city lights.
4. Umm Suqeim Park, Dubai
For those who prefer a more secluded setting within the city, Umm Suqeim Park is a fantastic choice. This lush park, located close to the iconic Burj Al Arab, offers a peaceful environment for yoga. The park’s green lawns and shaded areas are ideal for yoga sessions, especially during the cooler months. With its family-friendly atmosphere, Umm Suqeim Park is a great spot for yoga practitioners of all ages.
READ MORE: 10 Best Ways to Boost Testosterone Naturally
Luxurious Escapes: Yoga in Exclusive Resorts
5. Talise Spa at Burj Al Arab, Dubai
For a truly luxurious yoga experience, the Talise Spa at Burj Al Arab offers unparalleled facilities and services. Located in one of the world’s most iconic hotels, the spa provides a range of yoga classes, from Hatha to Vinyasa, led by experienced instructors. The serene setting, with views of the Arabian Gulf, enhances the sense of tranquillity and relaxation. The spa’s comprehensive wellness programmes also include meditation and personalised health consultations.
6. Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort
Nestled on the eastern crescent of Palm Jumeirah, Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort is another premier location for yoga. The resort’s yoga pavilion overlooks the pristine waters of the Arabian Gulf, providing a breathtaking backdrop for practice. Guests can participate in daily yoga sessions as part of the resort’s wellness offerings, which also include spa treatments and holistic therapies. The combination of luxury and nature makes it a top choice for yoga enthusiasts.
Nature’s Haven: Yoga in Parks and Gardens
7. Mushrif Park, Dubai
Mushrif Park, one of Dubai’s largest parks, offers a natural retreat away from the city’s hustle and bustle. The park’s vast green spaces and shaded areas are perfect for yoga sessions, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon. The park’s diverse flora and fauna create a serene atmosphere, making it easy to connect with nature while practising yoga. The park also features cycling tracks, picnic areas, and playgrounds, making it a versatile destination for a family day out.
8. Al Ain Oasis, Al Ain
For a unique yoga experience surrounded by history and nature, Al Ain Oasis is a must-visit. This UNESCO World Heritage site, located in the heart of Al Ain, features over 147,000 date palms and other fruit trees, creating a lush and tranquil environment. Yoga sessions amidst the shaded pathways of the oasis offer a refreshing escape from the heat and a deep connection to nature. The oasis’s historical significance and natural beauty provide a truly special setting for yoga practice.
Yoga Studios: Professional Guidance and Community
9. Yoga House, Dubai
Yoga House, located in the Greens, Dubai, is a popular studio known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse class offerings. The studio provides a range of yoga styles, including Ashtanga, Iyengar, and Yin Yoga, catering to practitioners of all levels. The experienced instructors at Yoga House focus on creating a supportive community, making it a great place for beginners and seasoned yogis alike. The studio’s serene environment and high-quality facilities enhance the overall experience.
10. Bodytree Studio, Abu Dhabi
Bodytree Studio in Abu Dhabi is a holistic wellness centre that offers a variety of yoga classes, workshops, and wellness programmes. The studio’s tranquil setting and experienced instructors make it a top choice for yoga enthusiasts in the capital. Bodytree Studio also hosts specialised classes, such as prenatal yoga and kids’ yoga, ensuring that everyone can find a suitable practice. The studio’s commitment to fostering a sense of community and well-being is evident in its diverse offerings and supportive environment.
Conclusion
The UAE is home to a myriad of perfect yoga spots, each offering unique experiences that cater to different preferences and lifestyles. Whether you prefer practising by the beach, in the heart of the city, or within luxurious resorts, discovering the Perfect Yoga Spots in the UAE has something to offer every yoga enthusiast.
For more information on yoga spots and other lifestyle events in the UAE, visit What’s Hot in UAE.
Health & Fitness
TRT Is Making More Men Bald
Male pattern baldness, or androgenic alopecia, affects a large portion of men worldwide. For those undergoing testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), the concern of accelerated hair loss looms larger due to the link between testosterone, its derivative hormones, and the health of hair follicles. In her latest video, urologist Dr. Rena Malik offers a comprehensive breakdown of the science behind TRT and its effects on hair loss, exploring whether men on TRT is making more men bald.
What Causes Hair Loss?
Hair loss is a multifaceted issue influenced by:
- Genetics: A significant determinant of baldness. A family history of hair loss can be an early indicator of susceptibility.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Testosterone and its byproducts, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play a pivotal role.
- Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Poor nutrition, certain medications, and grooming habits like tying hair tightly can weaken follicles over time.
- Age: The risk of hair thinning and baldness increases with age due to the cumulative impact of hormonal changes and environmental factors.
How Does Testosterone Affect Hair?
Testosterone, a vital hormone for male health, is partially converted into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) within the body, typically at a rate of 6 to 8 percent per day. DHT is essential during puberty, contributing to the development of secondary sexual characteristics like body hair and pubic hair.
However, as Dr. Malik explains, DHT’s relationship with hair is not straightforward. While DHT is responsible for promoting hair growth in some areas, it can contribute to hair follicle shrinkage and eventual loss on the scalp.
Key Points:
- Men genetically predisposed to hair loss are more likely to experience male pattern baldness due to DHT.
- TRT, by increasing testosterone levels, may also raise DHT levels, potentially accelerating hair loss in those already susceptible.
- Research indicates that among transgender men undergoing TRT, only 5 to 17 percent develop alopecia in their first year, and most cases are mild.
Reports suggest TRT is making more men bald
Is Hair Loss a Guaranteed Side Effect of TRT?
Hair loss is not inevitable for all men on TRT. According to Dr. Malik, while TRT can increase the risk of male pattern baldness, it primarily affects men who are already genetically predisposed. The extent of hair loss varies widely, influenced by individual genetic factors and hormonal responses.
For men concerned about hair loss, it’s essential to weigh the benefits of TRT—such as improved energy levels, libido, and overall well-being—against the potential cosmetic side effects.
Managing Hair Loss During TRT
If hair loss becomes a concern, there are steps you can take to address it:
- Consult a Dermatologist: A specialist can help identify the underlying causes of hair loss and recommend treatments.
- Medications: Options like finasteride or minoxidil may slow down or reverse hair thinning by targeting DHT or stimulating follicle activity.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for hair health can make a difference.
- Alternative Therapies: Emerging treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and low-level laser therapy offer additional avenues for hair restoration.
Balancing Benefits and Concerns
Dr. Malik underscores that the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy often outweigh the potential for hair loss, particularly for those who are already predisposed to baldness. She recommends that men who notice signs of hair thinning, whether on TRT or not, seek professional advice to explore viable treatment options.
Ultimately, TRT is a personal decision. Understanding the interplay between testosterone, DHT, and hair health empowers men to make informed choices about their bodies and well-being.
Stay informed on the latest health trends and insights at What’s Hot in UAE.
Health & Fitness
Maximizing Results in the Gym: The Power of Patience
No matter where you are on your fitness journey, staying patient can often feel like one of the biggest challenges. The desire to fast-track your progress, to reach that finish line—whether literally or figuratively—as soon as possible is a common one. After all, who doesn’t crave the sense of accomplishment that comes with hitting new personal records or seeing tangible results in the gym? But as the saying goes, “There’s no magic pill for immediate gratification.” If achieving your fitness goals were easy, it wouldn’t be called “work.”
It’s easy to feel discouraged if the results you’re after don’t appear immediately. However, it’s important to recognize that many positive changes are happening behind the scenes, even if they’re not visible just yet.
The timeline for seeing results from a workout routine varies widely from person to person. “There are numerous factors that contribute to these timelines,” says Kurt Ellis, C.S.C.S., owner and coach at Beyond Numbers Performance. “Factors such as genetics, age, gender, type of training program, and lifestyle indicators can impact how soon someone will see changes.”
How Long Does It Take to See Results from Working Out?
One might assume that seasoned gym-goers see results faster because of their experience, but this isn’t always the case. Ellis explains that beginners often experience quicker results than more advanced athletes due to their lower baseline fitness level and training age. If you’re a beginner, think of it like starting at the bottom of a ladder with more rungs to climb, each representing progress. On the other hand, advanced athletes may have already reached some of those rungs, meaning they have less distance to travel to reach new heights.
In the early stages of strength training, beginners often experience what’s known as “newbie gains,” which are rapid improvements in strength and, to a lesser extent, muscle growth. However, these gains are temporary, and progress will naturally slow down as you continue training.
A commonly referenced study from 2009 suggests it takes at least 18 days for someone to form a habit after deciding to change their behaviour. This applies to athletes of all levels, so consider this timeframe your first benchmark for progress. Deciding to make a change and sticking to it is an accomplishment worth celebrating in itself.
Typically, tangible changes, such as improvements in body composition or resting heart rate, become noticeable within two to six weeks, according to Ellis. For beginners, this timeframe is roughly two to four weeks, while for more seasoned athletes, it can take four to six weeks or more. Again, the concept of “newbie gains” plays a role here, with beginners seeing rapid strength improvements initially, followed by a plateau where progress continues but at a slower rate.
READ MORE: 5 Lifestyle Tweaks to Slash Your Cholesterol in Half
Signs You’re Getting Fitter
Weight loss might be a common goal, but the number on the scale isn’t the only metric that matters. There are many other signs that you’re getting fitter, even if the scale doesn’t reflect it right away.
1. Neurological Adaptations
The initial results from your workouts often happen at an imperceptible, cellular level. When you challenge your body with new or difficult tasks—whether it’s trying a new sport, learning a yoga pose, or starting a workout routine—your brain creates new neural pathways to signal your body to perform in ways it hasn’t before. These neurological adaptations are critical for improving strength, coordination, motor learning, and overall performance.
Ellis emphasizes that “neural plasticity,” or the brain’s ability to adapt and evolve, allows you to continue developing new pathways throughout your fitness journey. To strengthen these neural pathways, it’s beneficial to incorporate a variety of movements and training stimuli into your routine.
2. Increased Energy
One of the earliest changes people notice after starting a fitness routine is an increase in energy levels. Just as strength training causes microtears in your muscles that help them grow stronger, exerting yourself during a workout signals your body to produce more mitochondria—the powerhouses of your cells—boosting your overall energy levels.
3. Improved Mood
Exercise is well-known for its mood-boosting effects, thanks to the release of endorphins, the body’s “feel-good” hormones. While all forms of physical activity trigger endorphin release, research is still evolving on which types of exercise and intensities produce the most significant effects. A 2017 study published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology suggests that high-intensity training might be particularly effective for achieving that coveted “exercise high.”
4. Better Sleep
Another benefit you might notice fairly early on in your fitness journey is improved sleep quality. Adequate rest is crucial for maintaining motivation and long-term success in any training program. According to a 2013 study, sleep plays a significant role in overall health and fitness progress.
Quantitative Benchmarks to Track Progress
In addition to lifestyle improvements like increased energy and better sleep, more measurable benchmarks can help you track your fitness progress.
For strength training, tracking progress against absolute strength—often measured by the one-rep max (1RM) test—is a common method. This involves lifting the heaviest weight you can manage in a single exercise, such as a bench press or squat, for one full repetition with proper form. If you’re new to strength training, you might opt for a three to five rep total instead, using a training load chart to estimate your one-rep max.
For those with endurance and cardio-focused goals, VO2 max is the standard metric used to measure progress. VO2 max assesses how efficiently your body uses oxygen during exercise. While accurate tracking typically requires lab equipment, many fitness trackers and smartwatches now offer VO2 max estimates, allowing you to monitor your progress over time.
The Importance of SMART Goals
Setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Time-bound) goals can make a significant difference in your fitness journey. “Athletes typically see long-term, sustainable results when they include process goals along the way to their big-picture goals,” says Ellis.
Achieving a goal like getting stronger or building muscle requires more than just working out. “Highlighting the importance of sleep quality, proper nutrition, and community support can set habits that change your overall well-being for the better,” says Ellis. By viewing your workout routine as just one part of a comprehensive healthy lifestyle, you’ll find it easier to stay patient and motivated.
For more insights and advice on staying on track with your fitness goals, visit What’s Hot in UAE. Keep celebrating your small wins, and remember that progress, no matter how slow, is still progress.
Health & Fitness
5 Lifestyle Tweaks to Slash Your Cholesterol in Half
If you’re on a mission to Slash Your Cholesterol in Half, the good news is that you don’t need to overhaul your life entirely. With a few strategic lifestyle adjustments, you can make a significant impact on your heart health. Here’s how to get started.
1. Revamp Your Diet with Heart-Healthy Foods
Your diet is the cornerstone of cholesterol management. To make a real difference, load up on foods rich in soluble fibre, like oats, beans, and apples. These powerhouses help block cholesterol absorption in your bloodstream. And while you’re at it, cut back on saturated and trans fats—often hiding in red meat, full-fat dairy, and processed snacks. Swap them out for healthier fats found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil. Think of it as feeding your heart the good stuff while crowding out the bad.
2. Move More to Improve Your Numbers
Exercise isn’t just for shedding pounds—it’s a direct line to better cholesterol levels. Regular physical activity can raise your HDL (the good cholesterol) and lower LDL (the bad cholesterol) and triglycerides. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week—brisk walks, cycling, or even dancing in your living room counts. And don’t forget strength training a couple of times a week to maximize your results.
3. Embrace a Balanced Weight
Shedding even a few pounds can have a profound impact on your cholesterol levels. If you’re carrying extra weight, particularly around your midsection, it might be time to focus on a balanced, calorie-conscious diet and up your activity levels. You don’t need to aim for perfection—just a 5 to 10% reduction in body weight can make a big difference.
4. Rethink Your Relationship with Alcohol
While that evening glass of wine might have some heart benefits, moderation is key. Overdoing it with alcohol can lead to higher cholesterol levels and other health risks. Keep it to one drink per day if you’re a woman, and two if you’re a man, to maintain that balance between enjoying life and protecting your heart.
5. Explore Medication Options with Your Doctor
Sometimes, diet and exercise aren’t enough, and that’s okay. If your cholesterol levels remain stubbornly high, it might be time to talk to your healthcare provider about medications like statins. These drugs can help reduce the amount of cholesterol your liver produces, giving your efforts a powerful boost.
Wrapping It Up
Cutting your cholesterol in half might seem like a tall order, but with these manageable lifestyle tweaks, you’re well on your way to a healthier heart. Remember, it’s about making smarter choices every day—whether it’s what you eat, how you move, or how you manage your health with your doctor’s guidance. After all, your heart is worth it.
READ MORE: Maximizing Results in the Gym: The Power of Patience
For more tips on living your healthiest life, and to stay updated on the latest health and wellness trends, visit What’s Hot in UAE. Your journey to better health starts with the first step, so why not take it today?
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