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Finding Joy in the Little Things: Make a Change this Mental Health Awareness Week

Mental Health Awareness Week is an important event that shines a spotlight on mental health. In today’s fast-paced world, with its constant hustle and bustle, it’s easy to get caught up in the pursuit of big achievements and material possessions. However, finding joy in the little things in life can have a significant positive impact on our mental wellbeing. So, let’s explore the importance of finding happiness in the everyday and how it can contribute to better mental health… 

What are the “Little Things”?

The “little things” refer to the simple pleasures and small moments that bring us joy in our day-to-day lives. They are the often overlooked or taken-for-granted moments that can be found in the ordinary routines and activities we engage in. Some examples of little things that can bring joy include…

A walk in the park, or simply sitting in a garden and appreciating the beauty of flowers can be incredibly uplifting. If you’re looking to take a walk with some company why not head to the ASKWHO outdoors group – see if other members of the community recommend a walk or even organise a group outing? 

Practising mindfulness by being fully present in the moment, whether it’s savouring a delicious meal, taking a hot shower, or just sitting quietly and observing our surroundings, can help us appreciate the present moment. If you’re looking for that extra push, why not try a yoga class? The ASKWHO wellness group is a great place to start when looking for classes. 

Spending quality time with loved ones, sharing a laugh, or engaging in a heart-to-heart conversation can bring immense joy and strengthen our social connections. This one isn’t always possible – you may have moved to a new area recently, this is where ASKWHO can help. The community is always on hand to support you. 

Why are the “Little Things” Important for Mental Health?

It’s easy to overlook the small moments that can bring us joy. However, here’s why it is essential to our wellness:

Enhances Positive Emotions: Appreciating little things in life can boost our positive emotions, such as happiness, gratitude and sense of peace. 

Cultivates Mindfulness: Paying attention to the little things in life requires us to be present in the moment and practice mindfulness. This state of awareness has been shown to reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and enhance overall wellbeing.

Builds Resilience: Finding joy in our day to day can help us develop a resilient mindset by shifting our focus from what we lack to what we have. This positive perspective can help us cope better with challenges and setbacks, contributing to better mental resilience.

Fosters Gratitude: Practicing gratitude can shift our mindset from a mindset of scarcity to abundance. Gratitude has been linked to increased happiness, improved relationships, and enhanced mental well-being.

ASKWHO supports your mental health

The ASKWHO app was designed to bring a community of like-minded individuals together and make a real connection. These connections are the foundations of stronger friendships. Your social circle is important to your mental health because where would we be without our friends? Head to ASKWHO to find someone to appreciate the little things with you.

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Discover Unique Tastes with belong: World Cocktail Day and Dubai Food Festival 2023

World Cocktail Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than by exploring the city’s best bars? Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to catch up with friends or a rooftop lounge with stunning views, we’ve got you covered. Here are our top picks for you…

Zuma Dubai

If you’re looking for a stylish spot, Zuma Dubai is the place to be. This Japanese-inspired bar boasts an impressive menu of sake, Japanese whisky, and creative cocktails that blend traditional and modern flavors. With its sleek interior design and panoramic views of the city skyline, Zuma is the perfect spot for a special occasion or a night out with friends.

If you’re an art lover, why not invite your fellow art enthusiasts on the ASKWHO arts group to join you for a drink? 

The Penthouse

The Penthouse is a rooftop bar with breathtaking views on Palm Jumeirah. Located at the Five, this bar offers panoramic views of the marina skyline and the Arabian Gulf. Sip on their signature cocktails and enjoy some Mediterranean-inspired bites while taking in the stunning surroundings. With a live DJ night every Friday, keep the energy high until the early hours of the morning.

So get ready to send your invites out to the lifestyle group to join you on a Friday night at this award-winning rooftop bar. 

Armani/Lounge

When it comes to a truly glamorous night out the Armani/Lounge is the place to be. This exclusive club, located in the iconic Burj Khalifa, offers a luxurious atmosphere and a top-notch selection of cocktails, champagne, and spirits. With its picture-perfect decor and state-of-the-art sound system, ArmaniLounge is the spot for a night of dancing and celebration.

This one is also a top pick for style enthusiasts, why not reach out on the ASKWHO fashion tag for friends to come along? The club is known to host fashion shows and events featuring local and international designers that you won’t want to miss.

Dubai Food Festival 

Now that we’ve explored where to grab some of the best drinks in Dubai, let’s talk about food. This Dubai Food Festival is a must-attend event for all foodies, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences across the city. From street food to fine dining, you’ll find something to suit your tastes and budget. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights to look out for…

  • Beach Canteen: A pop-up beachside food village featuring tasty food vendors, live music, and family-friendly activities.
  • Dubai Restaurant Week: A chance to sample some of the city’s best fine dining restaurants at special prices.
  • Foodie Experiences: A range of unique culinary experiences, from cooking classes to food tours.

Make sure to plan a meet-up with the foodies group while you’re there to experience the best of Dubai’s culinary scene together. 

With the upcoming Food Festival and World Cocktail Week, there’s never been a better time to explore the city’s great tastes. Cheers to a great World Cocktail Day, and we hope to see you at one of these amazing bars soon! Don’t forget to share pictures from your week with the rest of the ASKWHO community.

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How to Make Friends as a Digital Nomad with belong

Being a digital nomad can be the experience of a lifetime. You get to travel the world, visit beautiful locations, and have the freedom to work from anywhere. However, it can also be a lonely experience, especially if you struggle to make friends in new places. Here are our top tips on how to stay connected…

Soak in the local culture

One of the benefits of being a digital nomad is that you can work on the go. However, remote work can often be isolating so it is essential to get out and about. You’d be surprised how many people are willing to chat, especially in social settings such as at a coffee shop or local bar. Keep an open mind, and don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation. Find out local recommendations by asking the ASKWHO community about their favorite spots.

Try checking out the places that speak most to you such as attending art exhibits, joining a local book club, or booking tickets to a concert. Here you’ll be sure to come across those who have similar interests and hobbies to you. Remember that you can also connect to like minded people on ASKWHO who are ready to join your adventure. 

Try something new 

Taking a class or learning a new skill not only gives you the opportunity to make new friendships, but it’s also an amazing way to boost your confidence. Let’s take a look at some ideas…

  • Enroll in a language course
  • Attend a creative workshop 
  • Sign up for music lessons 

Working classes are another excellent way to feel part of a new city or town. Consider taking an exercise session, joining a walking group, or catching up with the ASKWHO fitness group. Not only will you be meeting fellow active people, but you’ll also be taking care of your health and wellbeing. You never know, you might even find a workout buddy to help keep you motivated.

Discover your community 

As a digital nomad, it can often be challenging to find people with similar interests or schedules. ASKWHO allows you to connect with others based on your preferences and hobbies. It’s the perfect way to find someone to go out and explore the city with or simply hang out with while working. 

Staying active with the community also means you can find out about fun networking events or remoteur conferences near you. Here you’ll have the chance to meet other freelancers, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads from all over the world. It’s a great way to learn about new trends, listen to inspiring stories, and most importantly, make friends for life.

Our ASKWHO events also provide the perfect opportunity to have fun mingling with other members at unique and exclusive meet ups. From dinner parties to yoga classes and hikes, ASKWHO events are a great way to meet other people who are also new to the area. Make sure to check out the ‘Events’ tab on the ASKWHO app to get involved in upcoming events.

So why wait? Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, try new things, and remember that everyone’s in the same boat!

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The Best Bars to Visit in San Francisco

Raise a glass and join us for some of the best beer bars in San Francisco! From enjoying a cold one with friends to relaxing after a long day, going for a beer is a great social activity. Check out our top picks for the best beer bars in the city.

Golden Gate Tap Room – If you’re a sports fan looking for a lively pub with a stunning view of the bay, look no further than Golden Gate Tap Room. This San Francisco establishment offers a wide selection of craft beers, as well as an extensive wine list for those who prefer grapes to hops.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the San Francisco Giants, 49ers, Warriors, or Sharks – Golden Gate Tap Room is the perfect spot to catch all the action. It’s also a great place to hang out with your sports-loving friends from ASKWHO – win or lose, you’ll have a blast!

The Ramp  Enjoy delicious fresh food and drinks at this waterfront bar located in Dogpatch. With unbeatable views of the Bay Bridge, this place is popular for both locals and visitors alike. If that’s not enough to tempt you, why not come down to one of their events such as…

  • Salsa Saturdays 
  • Outdoor Big Screen 
  • DJ Night Sets

Events like these are the perfect opportunity to connect with other members, make new friends, and experience something unforgettable. Don’t forget to stay up-to-date with our ASKWHO events over on the app.

Bender’s Bar & Grill – This hipster dive bar located in the Mission District is known for its music scene that features live bands seven nights a week plus DJs spinning tunes on weekends. Make sure to send out those invites to the music group and try out their famous mac ‘n cheese while you jam out together! 

Fort Point Beer Company – If you haven’t checked out Fort Point Beer Company yet, you’re missing out on a truly unique craft beer experience. Founded in 2014 by brothers Tyler and Justin Catalana, Fort Point is all about creating approachable, flavorful beers that showcase the spirit and flavors of San Francisco. Here are a few reasons to visit…

  • Their commitment to using local, seasonal ingredients ensures that every beer is packed with fresh, delicious flavor.
  • The Catalana brothers are passionate about giving back to the San Francisco community, and their partnerships with local organizations like the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy are a testament to their dedication.
  • With three locations across San Francisco, there’s always a Fort Point Beer Company nearby when you’re in the mood for a great brew.

So why not grab a nice crisp glass with friends from the lifestyle group?

Don’t forget to connect with the lifestyle group on ASKWHO and invite them along so you can all make some new friends. Cheers! 🍻

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How to Start a Book Club with belong

There is nothing better than diving into a new book. However, it can be a pretty solitary activity. We’ve all had that moment when we’ve loved a book so much we just want to discuss it with others, so why not start a book club? From discovering books to learning new things, book clubs are a great social activity. Not sure how to set one up? Don’t worry, we’ll guide you through the process of starting your own book club and explore some of the benefits of doing so.

Make new friends

One of the most significant benefits of starting your own book club is the opportunity to meet new people and make friends. Plus talking about books can be a great icebreaker – no awkwardness here. By discussing books and sharing your thoughts and opinions, you can create a sense of community and belonging.

Learn something new 

Book clubs can also be a valuable educational tool. Reading books can expose you to new ideas, perspectives, and cultures that you may not have encountered otherwise. Discussing these books with others can help you deepen your understanding of the material and broaden your horizons.

Discover your new favorite books

One of the main reasons people start book clubs is to discover new books. By reading books recommended by others in the group, you can expand your reading list and explore genres you may not have considered before. Book clubs can also introduce you to new authors and help you discover books you might not have found on your own. Why not head to the ASKWHO art group for some interesting recommendations to get you started? 

Regular Meet-Ups

Book clubs typically meet regularly, such as once a month. It’s a great way to get out and about, whilst giving you plenty of time to read your book. Meeting up at each other’s house is always fun or heading to a local café and grabbing a latte at the same time. Make sure to head to ASKWHO – we know the foodies group will have some great coffee spots in mind.

Share Your Book Club on ASKWHO

Once you’ve started your book club, you can share it with others on ASKWHO, the knowledge group in particular would be a great place to start. You’ll be bringing together like-minded people to make real connections! So whether you’re looking to make new friends, expand your reading list, or deepen your understanding of the world around you, a book club can help you achieve your goals. So why not start your own book club today and see where the journey takes you?

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Belong’s Guide to The Best Spots of Natural Beauty in Dubai

There’s no denying that Dubai is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Although it is known for its glittering skyscrapers, shopping malls, and luxury hotels, there’s much more to this vibrant city than meets the eye. From beautiful beaches to stunning wildlife sanctuaries, for nature lovers, Dubai has a lot to offer. So, let’s explore the best spots of natural beauty in Dubai…

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in the heart of Dubai, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem for nature lovers. This sanctuary is home to over 20,000 birds, including flamingos, herons, and eagles. It is free to visit and offers guided tours by foot or by boat – a great way to discover the different species of birds and wildlife. Why not head to the ASKWHO Outdoors group to see if there’s a fellow bird spotter to join you? 

Black Palace Beach

Dubai is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and Black Palace Beach is one of the best. This secluded beach is located in the Al Sufouh area and is a favorite spot for people seeking a peaceful escape from the city.

Black Palace Beach is known for its clear waters and pristine sands, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Take a stroll along the beach and enjoy the stunning views of the Dubai skyline but be warned – there aren’t many amenities here so make sure to come prepared. 

There are lots of ASKWHO members in the Lifestyle groups that would love a trip down to one of the most beautiful beaches. Make sure to let them know when you’ll be there. 

The Farm

The Farm is a unique destination in Dubai, offering visitors a taste of the countryside in the heart of the city. It is located in Al Barari, in the midst of a lush green oasis right in the middle of the desert. The Farm features a farm-to-table restaurant, an organic vegetable garden, and a nursery selling a variety of plants. During your visit, take a leisurely walk through the garden, sample fresh produce and admire the beautiful flowers. The restaurant at The Farm serves delicious meals made with locally sourced ingredients, providing you with a unique dining experience.

Are you part of the Foodies group on ASKWHO? You need to be – head over and find a fellow foodie to join you on your trip to The Farm.

Escape the bustling city life

When you’re ready to explore a different and more natural side of Dubai make sure to hit up these 3 spots. Looking for some company? Remember to head over to the ASKWHO app to see if other members recommend these hot spots or if they want to join.

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Tips on Becoming a Better Friend with belong

There’s nothing quite like having a great friend in your life. Whether you want somebody to talk to, lean on, or just have fun with – surrounding yourself with like-minded people is important. However, being part of someone else’s life isn’t always easy. If you feel like you could use some tips on how to become a better friend, then read on…

Make the effort 

Good friendships don’t just happen – they take work. You need to be proactive about maintaining your friendships. This means reaching out regularly, even when you’re busy. Checking in with your friends, making plans, and staying in touch will show them that you care and that you value your friendship. 

Reach out more

If you’re feeling like you need someone to talk to, reach out. ASKWHO is here to help you meet new people and make meaningful friendships. Connect with those who have similar interests and get involved in social events, group activities and local meet-ups. Here are just a few of the groups you could join…

  • Lifestyle
  • Foodies
  • Outdoors 
  • Fitness
  • Arts
  • Wellness

Remember active listening goes a long way when maintaining a friendship. Don’t just wait for your turn to talk – hear what they’re saying and try to understand how they’re feeling. This also allows you to give better advice and support because you know what’s going on in their life.

Be selfless and show you care

A good friendship is built on trust and mutual respect. This means thinking about their needs before your own and always being honest with them. It’s the little things that matter in friendships. Something as small as sending a quick text message or liking their post on ASKWHO can make a big difference in how valued your friend feels. 

New friends are waiting

Becoming a better friend doesn’t have to be complicated; often, it’s the simple things that count most when it comes to creating meaningful relationships. If you’re looking for somewhere to start, head to ASKWHO today and start connecting with others.

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How to Get Your Irish On this St. Patrick’s Day in San Francisco

Get your shamrocks ready and your green apparel on, it’s almost time for St. Patrick’s Day. There are so many different ways to celebrate in San Francisco and get into the spirit of this fun-loving holiday. Whether you’re looking for a wild night out on the town or a low-key evening at home with friends, here are some great ideas for how to make the most of it…

Party like the Irish

There is no shortage of events when it comes to celebrating big this St. Patrick’s Day. San Francisco loves its festivals and holidays, so it should come as no surprise that there are plenty of places to be around town this year. From the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade featuring local bands, and food trucks to pub crawls through some of this city’s hippest bars, there is something everyone can enjoy. Be sure to check out the Shamrock’n 5K, 10K and Leprechaun Dash or get your groove on at the annual block party at The Irish Bank

A Guinness (or two) 

It wouldn’t be a proper celebration without a visit to an Irish bar. Luckily, The Bay has plenty of places where you can sip on some brews and nosh on some classic pub fare. Here are some of our top venues to head to…

  • Voted ‘Best Irish Pub’ by SF Weekly, The Plough and the Stars have quite the reputation for perfecting the pour of Guinness. So if you want to be served up true Irish style head to this laid-back bar.
  • As far as authenticity goes, things don’t get much better than The Little Shamrock. Built in 1893, this bar is notorious for showing its guests a good time and remains a top spot for St Patrick’s Day cheers.

So, mark your calendars for March 17th and get ready to make some memories. Don’t forget to reach out to the ASKWHO lifestyle group and invite fellow pub lovers to join you.

Say Sláinte Mhaith 

If you prefer to stay in the comfort of your own home but still want to join in on the festivities, there are plenty of ways to do so. Here are a few ideas for you…

Food – Whip up some delicious Irish cuisine like corned beef or shepherd’s pie. Don’t forget about dessert. You can make a classic apple tart or bake some special green frosting cupcakes.

Drinks – Gather your friends (or just be merry by yourself) with some classic green drinks like Shamrock Sours, Mint Mojitos or Green Appletinis.

Entertainment – Why not throw on some traditional Celtic tunes like “Danny Boy” or “The Fields Of Athenrye” whilst having a dance to the sounds of Ireland? Dance off, anyone?

If you don’t have plans yet or want to check out what others are getting up to then join us over on ASKWHO. Plus you’ll be able to share the best bits of your day with the rest of the community. Happy St Patrick’s Day🍀

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Slow Living: Embracing a Simpler and More Fulfilling Lifestyle

In today’s fast-paced world, many people are feeling overwhelmed and stressed out. The constant demands of work, social media, and technology can make it challenging to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. That’s where the concept of slow living comes in.

Definition of slow living: A lifestyle which encourages a slower approach to aspects of everyday life, involving completing tasks at a leisurely pace. 

Let’s look into some of the benefits of slow living and what it really entails…

It’s time to get slow… 
The definition of slow living is when people decide to live a more meaningful and balanced life by completing tasks in a leisurely manner and making more time for self-care*. This lifestyle movement encourages people to focus on quality over quantity, savouring life’s moments and finding meaning in the things that matter most. Sounds relatively easy right? However, as we all tend to get swept along with the craziness of day-to-day life it can be more difficult than you think.

Improved Mental Health
One of the biggest benefits of slow living is improved mental health. When we take the time to slow down and focus on what’s important, we reduce stress and anxiety. We also have more time to connect with friends and family, and engage in interests such as… 

  • Enjoying a coffee
  • Crafting 
  • Bike rides 
  • Long baths 
  • Paddle boarding  

These activities can help boost our mood, increase feelings of happiness and contentment, and improve our overall wellbeing. If you’re in a new area and don’t have your usual support system around, head to ASKWHO and find a group that you can connect to based on your interests.

More time
By slow living, you’re removing distractions and chaotic thoughts that tend to take up much of our time. So stop with the never-ending to-do lists and create a much more manageable routine. Incorporate one or two daily tasks but leave a lot of time for hobbies and other meaningful activities. 

Love reading, sports or wellness? ASKWHO have lots of groups dedicated to the outdoors, fitness, arts and more so you can easily meet new people who have the same interests as you.

Better Relationships
Slow living can also improve relationships. When we focus on what’s important, we have more time to connect with the people we care about. Spend quality time with family and friends, engage in conversation, and strengthen the bonds that make life worth living. ASKWHO was created as the social media platform that creates meaningful friendships that last, so if you’re looking to expand your circle all you have to do is head to the app.

How ASKWHO can help 
Slow living is a powerful tool for improving mental and physical health, increasing creativity, strengthening relationships, and finding fulfilment. We have a welcoming community on ASKWHO that also want to get the most out of life and their city by spending time doing what they love. Why not head to the app and be supported by an amazing group of people? Who knows, you may find a brand new friendship group to live slowly with!

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Belong’S Guide to the Ultimate St Patrick’s Day 2023 in the UAE

Get ready to don your green, grab a shamrock, and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with friends, family, or even strangers. You may not be able to make it over to Ireland or experience the festivities first-hand, but you can still have a great time celebrating this event right here in the UAE. Here are some ideas for you…

Get your leprechaun on

What better way to get into the spirit of St Patrick’s Day than by throwing your own Irish-themed party? Check out this party checklist to get you inspired…

  • Decorations – Go all out with decorations like shamrock banners or four-leaf clover balloons. You can even dress up to match your theme. 
  • Drinks – Have a go at making some green drinks like Shamrock Sours, mint mojitos or a non-alcoholic option like pistachio milkshakes. 
  • Activity – Set up a baking station for your guests to make their own goodies like traditional Irish soda bread or Guinness cupcakes. Don’t forget to keep the Irish music playing throughout the day.

Once you have everything prepared for your big celebrations, share your plans with the community group and open up the invitation to all. 

Say Sláinte at an Irish event 

Whether you’re looking for some delicious pub grub or just want to enjoy some live music, there are plenty of traditional Irish pubs around town offering specials on Guinness and other craft brews. Here are some celebrations you can head to with the lifestyle group…

  • Fibber Magee’s is Dubai’s oldest and most iconic Irish pub so there should be no surprise that they will be celebrating true Irish style. Head here for the best Guinness in town, homely pub grub, live entertainment and sports. 
  • If live music is what you are after this holiday then look no further than The Irish Village in Garhoud where they will be hosting their annual St Paddy’s Bash with an array of bands performing a variety of traditional Irish tunes throughout the day. 
  • Nobody does St Patrick’s Day in Dubai better than McGettigan’s. The beloved pub is pulling out all the stops for St Paddy’s Day 2023 by hosting the ultimate festival at Media City Amphitheatre with The Script confirmed as headline act. With brunch & festival packages which include unlimited drinks, you can choose how hard you want to celebrate this holiday.

Don’t forget to mark March 17th on your calendar – it’ll be here before you know it. You can also find an array of events, celebrations and all around fun-times on the ASKWHO community group. Happy St Patrick’s Day🍀