Archipelago Announces New Havana Hotel with Wellness Spa

Archipelago Announces New Havana Hotel with Wellness Spa

Archipelago, Southeast Asia's largest privately owned and independent hotel management group, today announced the expansion of its Cuban portfolio with the opening of the 600 room GRAND ASTON La Habana Hotel. Rising to the Havana Malecón sky, this urban oasis is ideally located in the bustling Vedado, the capital's central commercial district, close to offices, shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Vedado is much more than a commercial district, it also has an electric nightlife, with clubs like La Zorra y el Cuervo, the Yellow Submarine, and the Cabaret Parisien providing quality entertainment.

GRAND ASTON La Habana takes modern living to the next level, revealing uniquely designed architecture, fresh rooms, eclectic dining, inspiring event spaces, and beautiful wellness facilities, including the city's only 24-hour fitness center and an amazing 56-meter long swimming pool overlooking the sparkling waters of Havana Bay. With an innovative design, its interior decoration is a perfect fusion between the Havana style of the 1930s and the Asian refinement of GRAND ASTON.

For a unique experience of rejuvenation and relaxation, its Wellness Center by Spa Ubud offers exotic Asian healing techniques, the only one in the city offering massages with authentic Balinese techniques. The hotel is also the first in the capital to house a bank branch (BFI).

"We're delighted to be opening what will become a true icon in the Havana hotel scene. One of the most creatively designed hotels is ready to welcome guests to experience the fusion of Asian and Cuban hospitality in a fantastic location," said John Flood, President & CEO of Archipelago.

Southeast Asia's largest privately owned and independent hotel management group, operates more than 150 hotels, with a further 50 hotels under development across Southeast Asia, the Caribbean and the Middle East. A trusted hotel company with a long track record and more than 30,000 rooms operating or under development in over 60 destinations with brands including ASTON, Collection by ASTON, The Alana, Huxley, Kamuela, Harper, Quest, NEO, favehotels and Nordic.

Sports Fitness and Wellness Trackers Leading 2022

Sports Fitness and Wellness Trackers Leading 2022

During the COVID-19 pandemic, wearables became a tool for tracking, monitoring, and combating the spread of the disease throughout the world. According to a recent study from global technology intelligence firm ABI Research, the number of wearables shipped worldwide in 2020 increased to 259.63 million, with sports, fitness, and wellness trackers accounting for 112.15 million and Smartwatches 74.30 million. Now, due to the increasing number of use cases and improved features, the upward trend is predicted to continue. In 2021, 304.69 million wearables shipped globally. In 2022, the wearable market is projected to reach 344.9 million of shipments worldwide, a growth increase of 13.2%.

"While the wearables sector has witnessed strong growth so, too, has mobile accessories, where demand for wireless headsets has risen dramatically in the past year. This increase has been driven by the growing availability of more stylish, feature packed and technically capable devices, notably the use of true wireless, on the market and, once again, the pandemic's impact on consumer behaviour and lifestyle," states Filomena Iovino, 5G Devices, Smartphones, and Wearables Research Analyst at ABI Research.

Wireless headset shipments reached 502.7 million at the end of 2021 and are expected to exceed 700 million units in 2026, with a CAGR of 7.6%, and leading the smart accessory market. Features such as noise cancellation technology will improve the user experience and offer a more extensive range of future use cases. "Furthermore, as voice control becomes the dominant user interface for hands-free control of smartphones and smartwatches, true wireless headsets will also become significant drivers for the growth and adoption of voice assistants," Iovino says. According to ABI Research, global TWS headset shipments will reach more than 600 million units in 2026 and a growth rate of 19%.

Additionally, certain segments of the mobile accessories market are set for fundamental change as total "in-box" shipments are to decline further due to the removal of items, notably chargers and headphones, by some leading smartphone vendors. Similarly, directives aimed at harmonizing charging ports to the use of a USB-C connector to reduce e-waste and improve consumer convenience could also alter the accessories market, potentially accelerating progress towards greater use of wireless charging and free-port devices. However, the wireless charging ecosystem is still relatively immature, and time will be required to improve specific features, such as charging times and the high costs of accessories, to ensure it can offer high-quality performance and enhanced user experiences.

Despite the introduction of 5G networks as a premium feature, many device types in the wearables and accessories sector will not become completely self-connected, instead they will still need to be tethered to a smartphone or hub. Indeed, the 5G attach rate for wearables and accessories will remain low of about 0.6% by 2026 and will be mainly related to sectors such as smartwatches and headsets. "High data gathering and low power efficiency will be the key strengths for these smart gadgets, raising demand and increasing popularity, particularly in the healthcare industry," explains Iovino. As a result, wearable technology might be transformed, as gadgets shrink while gaining new capabilities.

"Although 5G is likely to appear in in greater numbers of smartwatches in 2023, volume is expected to remain low at 3.55 million by 2026 while 4G will still represent the highest volume with 45.4 million shipments and a CAGR of 31.7% by this stage," says Iovino.

Healthcare wearable devices will remain another dominant sector throughout the forecast period and one that lends itself well to cellular connectivity. These devices enable consumers to track vital healthcare information in and beyond a hospital setting. "Some healthcare devices are currently shipped with LPWA-LTE connectivity or 4G technology, expected to reach by 2026 0.86 and 0.72 million of units, respectively. Moreover, this could be a good sector for 5G owing to its low latency, reliability, and broadband speed connectivity," Iovino concludes.

These findings are from ABI Research's Mobile Accessories and Wearables Market Share and Forecasts market data report. This report is part of the company's 5G Devices, Smartphones & Wearables research service, which includes research, data, and analyst insights. Market Data spreadsheets are composed of deep data, market share analysis, and highly segmented, service-specific forecasts to provide detailed insight where opportunities lie.

Magnesium Sleep Therapy

Magnesium Sleep Therapy

Can magnesium improve your sleep? Undoubtedly millions of people have trouble sleeping. It can be a mighty challenge trying to break the cycle of persistent insomnia. Some have tried changing their sleep routine or curbing caffeine intake in vain. Yes, sometimes, these practical lifestyle interventions may come a cropper and fall short of an effective therapy. Another popular option is the use of supplements.

One specific supplement that has really gained attention in recent years is magnesium. Some hail magnesium as a potentially beneficial sleep aid. Experts suggest that the mineral has wide-ranging therapeutic effects in the body. Many insist that magnesium can positively influence the processes that promote positive sleep quality. Hence, it's crucial to learn the connection that exists between magnesium and enjoying a good night's sleep. But first, we need to find out: What is magnesium? Well, magnesium is essentially one of the most commonly found minerals on earth. It is generally present in many types of food. Magnesium is essential for good human health. The human body uses the mineral in more than 600 cellular reactions. Indeed, each cell and organ in the human body needs this mineral to function well. Magnesium contributes to healthy bone quality, proper brain function, and excellent heart and muscular function.

Experts have linked magnesium supplements to several benefits. This includes fighting inflammation, lowering blood pressure, and relieving constipation. Further, experts believe that magnesium can help alleviate sleep problems. You can get many types of magnesium supplements readily available on the shelves. Some of these supplements are magnesium oxide, magnesium citrate, and magnesium chloride. Overall, magnesium is-undoubtedly- an essential mineral. The supplement is certainly useful in promoting good health. The benefits of magnesium range from helping to fight inflammation, lowering blood pressure to- perhaps- improving sleep.

So, why can we link magnesium to good sleep? First, the mineral can help the body function well; it can also help the brain relax. Keep this in mind- your body and brain need to relax well before you fall-and stay- asleep. Magnesium enhances such processes at a chemical level. It does this by stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system. This is the system that's primarily responsible for helping people stay calm and relaxed. Magnesium also regulates neurotransmitters- these usually send signals throughout the brain and the nervous system. The mineral also helps in the regulation of melatonin- a hormone that guides the body's regular sleep-wake cycles. Experts further suggest that magnesium generally binds to GABA (gamma- aminobutyric acid) receptors.

Essentially, GABA is the primary neurotransmitter that's responsible for slowing down and calming nervous activity. The same neurotransmitter is generally used to prepare some common sleep drugs like Amibien. Thus, experts suggest that magnesium may help prepare the body and mind for sleep. In a nutshell, magnesium generally helps stimulate neurotransmitters that are primarily responsible for calming your mind and body.

Further, those who don't have sufficient levels of magnesium in the body cannot expect to enjoy good sleep. Indeed, many have disturbed or troubled sleep. Some even have a worse experience- insomnia. Recent studies in mice have come up with interesting conclusions. The studies established that humans generally need optimal levels of this mineral to enjoy normal sleep. Beware though- studies show that having high levels of magnesium can also result in sleep problems.

Specific groups of people have been shown to be at a higher risk of suffering from magnesium deficiency. This includes those with digestive diseases. Certainly, having issues with the digestive tract can sometimes interfere with the body's ability to absorb minerals and vitamins. This can cause the body to have certain deficiencies. Also, those suffering from diabetes may be at high risk. Experts generally link diabetes and insulin resistance with excess magnesium loss. Those having alcohol dependency may also experience magnesium deficiency. Older adults tend to consume a diet with less magnesium compared to younger people; older ones may also experience less efficiency with magnesium absorption. So, those who don't have enough magnesium will likely suffer from sleep issues.

Magnesium not only helps people sleep- but also enhances sleep quality. Studies show that magnesium promotes the achievement of deep, restful sleep. In one study, a group of adults with insomnia was given a supplement that contained 225mg of magnesium, 11.25 mg zinc, and 5 mg melatonin. The subjects experienced better sleep compared to a control group.

Treating Chronic Back Pain

Treating Chronic Back Pain

How can you know you're suffering from back pain? Experts suggest you have chronic back pain if it continues unabated for three months. The pain may come and go, and you may experience temporary relief. However, frustration often follows. It can be especially challenging trying to deal with chronic back pain if you're not sure about the causes. Dr. Andrew Nava, who's a back pain rehabilitation expert, offers a few insights into some common causes of chronic back pain. He provides several nonsurgical options and advises sufferers never to give up.

What causes chronic back pain? Such pain may be related to ageing; it can also result from injury or accident. But- by far- some of the most common causes include spinal arthritis. Arthritis of the spine refers to the gradual thinning process on the cartilage inside the spine. Another cause is spinal stenosis- this refers to the narrowing process of the spinal canal. It may also lead to nerve pain. Also, there is the issue of disc problems (herniated or bulging disc). Finally, there is myofascial pain syndrome- a general unexplained tenderness and pain in the muscles. Dr. Nava says it can be difficult trying to pinpoint the exact cause of chronic back pain. If the doctor seems to have exhausted all diagnostic options, it might be time to try and seek a second opinion, specifically from a back pain expert.

Do not make rushed decisions, however. Further, it's important not to undergo extensive medical procedures (or surgeries) if the cause of the pain hasn't been established. Disregarding such advice can make the problem worse, the doctor warns. You should try managing the pain with nonsurgical processes if the source of the pain isn't known or if the pain isn't subsiding. Try to collaborate with the doctor to reduce the flare-ups.

So, what are some practical nonsurgical treatments for such pain? First, try physical therapy. The primary foundation of any chronic pain treatment is one: Exercise. Indeed, this should be among the first treatments anyone should try. Ensure you do this under the spinal therapist and physician's supervision. Ensure you tailor the exercises to your symptoms and general condition. Try to maintain the exercise regime at home- this constitutes a big part of your success.

Some practical physical therapy for chronic includes the following: Aerobic exercises, mindfulness, and meditation, core strengthening, restraining the body posture, stretching and flexibility exercises, testing the pain tolerance limits. Undoubtedly, the problem of chronic back pain can be physically and emotionally straining. You may likely- get referred to an expert in rehabilitation psychology to help you deal with some other symptoms. Some of these may include depression, irritability, frustration management, and other psychological elements of dealing with such pains. Your specialist may recommend a range of actions, including yoga, meditation, and tai chi. He may recommend other cognitive relaxation strategies that might help keep your mind from excessively concentrating on the pain.

Another practical option is diet. Keep in mind that some diets can be highly inflammatory. This is especially true of diets that are high in refined sugars, processed foods and trans fats. Ensure you consult your doctor to determine if your diet might be the contributing factor to the chronic back pain. The doctor may suggest ways to change your diet. Try to maintain a healthy body wait. This could help lessen the back pain- it reduces the pressure on the back (and the spine). You can also try to modify your lifestyle.

Try to accept your limitations- adapt to the realities of your situation. Dr. Nava suggests that patients should listen to their bodies and learn to pace themselves. For example, why not take a break when mowing the lawn? Also, try to do several trips when carrying your groceries. Try to identify activities that tend to worsen the pain and avoid them at all costs. This will help you feel much better and prevent the basic underlying condition from becoming worse. Try to stop smoking; experts have flagged off nicotine as a contributor to various pains- this may possibly include your nagging back pain. Further, nicotine may delay your natural healing processes.

Alternative Treatments: Ultimately, some have used a variety of treatments to manage chronic back pains. Some of these include massage, acupuncture, laser therapy, biofeedback therapy, and electrical nerve stimulation. As earlier noted, try to pursue non-surgical spine treatments. Try to talk to your spine specialist- he might suggest other practical alternative therapies that could very well benefit you.