Balance, inner harmony, healing and positivity: Keywords reflecting a philosophy that many are currently seeking in this rat race world we live in where consumerism is the main drive behind a seemingly unconscious existence. Where “success” is measured by the number of followers and likers we have on social media and the “good life” is merely an accumulation of more, bigger and better as compared to others.

These keywords happen to be some of the main ingredients in the Rituals brand product line as well, a brand that I had the pleasure of experiencing recently after meeting with and interviewing the man behind this concept, Raymond Cloosterman.

What really intrigued me was this very philosophy and the story telling aspect behind each collection, which is not merely a marketing tool but a true experience that you can only savor once you give it a try yourself.

As he explained, the idea to ‘Transform everyday routines into more meaningful moments’ lies at the heart of the RITUALS philosophy and forms the basis for each of its products.

“stop, breathe, connect...”

I loved the fact that the products are not made in the lab with a functional theme in mind ranging from dry to acne prone skin, but rather a wellness theme that you can connect to and choose from according to your emotional scale at the time. Giving that extra soul connection ingredient to everyday necessities just feels right as we all deserve to stop and enjoy the moment, the now, even when performing a simple task such as showering everyday.

Finding happiness in the smallest of things and transforming everyday routines into more meaningful moments lies at the heart of the brand philosophy.

So next time you need an uplift, savor the collection of the laughing Buddha. Been in Dubai for long? Focus on nourishing your Yin energy with The Ritual of Dao collection that helps you find inner peace and tranquility in your busy life. These are a few of the collections I got to sample and I can tell you one thing, they are pure luxury indulgence packed in a bottle – an affordable one I may add.

The first Rituals store in the Middle East is now open in MOE after the huge success the brand had across Europe for the past 10 years so now you can walk into the store yourself for a personal experience that will start a hand massage before contemplating which mood enhancer you would like to go for today. Please feel free to share your experience with me and remember we all need to stop, breathe and connect.

With so many trends hitting the racks every summer, shopping for swimwear can be a hard chore. To make your life easier, we have listed some basic design styles to look for to help you land the style that flatters your figure the most. Oh and we got you covered all the way to your sunscreen!

Small bust with large bottom or wide hips

#LuliFamaMiami #SS15 #Bikini

If you are heavier on the bottom and small on top, you can easily balance your proportions by going for a padded bra in a patterned design, such as an ethnic print in line with the seventies trend. The twist bandeau style is your best friend if you have a flat to small chest. As for colors, bright or light colors are your go to choice to make the area look visually larger- add embellishments, frills or ruffles on top and you’re almost full busted!

#LuliFamaMiami #SS15 #Bikini

Halter styles will enhance a small bust, it's also big on the Seventies trend right now, which makes it an ideal buy. The old faithful triangle style is suited to almost everyone - showing off both what you do and don't have.

#LuliFamaMiami #SS15 #Bikini

Keep the bottom part quiet by going for a darker solid color with no accessories. Stay away from straps and any design detail that will draw attention to your bottom. A full cover bottom is not always an ideal choice as it may make you look bigger. Look for semi coverage on the back but don’t take all the way to Brazilian bottoms.

Bigger on top and smaller at the bottom

If you are heavier on top, keep the bra simple and clean, by choosing one that fits you perfectly in a darker solid color. Look for structured styles with hidden bust support for maximum hold.

#LuliFamaMiami #SS15 #Bikini

Choose a bikini bottom with a fun print in a bold color, add frills or fringes if you’re the fun type. Another option is to go for horizontal stripes on the bottom to balance your top part. If you have short legs, stay away from boy short styles and loud colors and designs on the bottom. Take the attention away from your largest part by directing the eye elsewhere. Heart shape necklines, wrap styles and diagonal designs and prints will help to create softer lines around the bust and break up the volume a bit making you look slimmer all over.

#toastwoman #jets #laperla

Show off your curves in a Fifties silhouette - high-waisted bottoms and a retro bikini top will fit the bill perfectly. A high-waist will also help to hide any insecurities you may have with your stomach.

#soutbeach #jets #plumerias #beach #coverup

Next, think of the cover-up style that you would like to go for. You can choose from the vast kimono trend to see through tunics. Get one in a neutral color if your swimsuit is already loud or a statement color and design if your swimsuit is basic.

Some accessories add an individual style, but don’t over clutter. Your sunglasses should do the work, an anklet or a dainty necklace if you want to but nothing more.

Your flip-flops or sandals should coordinate with the style you’re wearing as well. Keep it sweet and simple for the beach. Nude colors will elongate your legs. Platforms may work if they’re not too high. High heels will not, they only look funny and out of place – like in an X-rated movie.

#beachmakeup

Beach Makeup is not an option as even waterproof will eventually smudge and go greasy. A lip stain can do. Believe it or not, men are not attracted to a contoured made up look by the pool. That goes for any glitter or shimmer on your body as well. Protect your hair with UV hair oils and a stylish hat. Wetting it before hitting the pool or the sea will save it from extra damage, as the strands will absorb less chlorine or salt when wet.

Last, your sunscreen should be your base, as you should never step out of the house without wearing it first and reapplying after swimming or showering. Try a tinted option matching your skin color if you are big on coverage, it works better than chalk white too. Finally, carry yourself in confidence -life is a beach, own it!