the altha journal
a blog for the conscious individual
Your guide to all things sound healing & wellness.
How to Regulate Your Nervous System in the UAE Desert Heat
The UAE is a land of bold contrasts: shimmering skylines and endless sand dunes, air-conditioned luxury and blazing desert heat. For many of us living in Abu Dhabi or Dubai, the climate alone can feel like a daily challenge—especially during the hotter months when temperatures soar above 40°C.
But the physical heat isn’t the only thing affecting our well-being. The combination of high temperatures, overstimulation, and relentless productivity can leave your nervous system in a constant state of overdrive. The result? Irritability, fatigue, burnout, and even sleep disturbances.
The good news is that you don’t need to escape the city or wait for winter to feel better. With the right tools, you can regulate your nervous system and reclaim your sense of calm—no matter how hot it gets outside.
Where to Find Peace and Stillness in Abu Dhabi: 5 Wellness Gems to Explore
Whether you're a longtime local or a newly arrived expat, the pace of life in the UAE can be exhilarating — and occasionally overwhelming. With the skyline constantly evolving and new opportunities around every corner, it's easy to get swept up in productivity and forget to pause.
If you're craving stillness, serenity, or just a moment to exhale, Abu Dhabi offers a number of beautiful hidden gems and intentional spaces where wellness can be experienced, not just talked about.
Sound Healing in the UAE: What It Is and Why It’s Gaining Momentum
In a fast-paced world, wellness practices that promote deep relaxation, clarity, and emotional balance are becoming more sought after than ever—especially in dynamic regions like the United Arab Emirates. One modality making waves across Abu Dhabi and Dubai is sound healing: a practice rooted in ancient wisdom that’s now gaining modern recognition.
Whether you're new to sound healing or curious why it's becoming popular in the Emirates, this guide will introduce you to its origins, how it works, and why it's worth experiencing firsthand.
Moving to the Emirates? Here’s How I’m Staying Grounded with Wellness Rituals
Relocating to a new country is both exciting and disorienting. After spending 21 years in Los Angeles, I recently made the move to the Emirates to bring Altha’s signature wellness experiences to the Middle East. When I first arrived, I hadn’t yet decided whether to settle in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. While I appreciated Dubai’s fast-paced, entrepreneurial energy, I ultimately felt more aligned with the cultural richness and more relaxed rhythm of Abu Dhabi.
The logistics of settling in have been overwhelming: applying for licenses, setting up a new home, traveling with my dog Zen, navigating cultural differences, and rebuilding community from scratch.
In the midst of this transition, I’ve leaned on the very tools I share with others through Altha — sound healing, breathwork, and therapeutic hypnosis — to stay grounded, centered, and at peace.
Goodbye LA, Hello UAE: A New Chapter Begins
Some places shape you. Others call you forward.
For the past 21 years, Los Angeles has been my home—a city of endless sunrises over the Pacific, spontaneous beach walks in Marina del Rey, and the boundless energy of creativity and entrepreneurship. It’s where I built my career, healed my body, and discovered my true calling in hypnotherapy and sound healing.
But some journeys whisper to you before you even realize you're ready. And now, it's time for a new adventure—one that leads me to the Middle East, a region pulsing with innovation, luxury wellness, and infinite possibility.
Mindfulness, Biohacking, and Nature-Based Therapy: My Experience at the Vikasa Wellness Retreat
After two months of packing, planning, and preparing for my next chapter in the Middle East, I knew I needed a moment to pause, reset, and breathe. I’ve learned to listen to those signs—and this time, they pointed me to Uruguay.
Introducing The Altha Masterclass: Your Path to Personal Growth and Transformation
The Altha team is thrilled to announce an exciting new offering: the Altha Masterclass. This Masterclass is a comprehensive educational program designed to empower individuals with the skills to heal themselves and support others on their personal healing journeys. Read on to explore what the Altha Masterclass entails, who would benefit from it, and how you can enroll in this unique educational experience.
2023 Mindful Holiday Gift Guide - Best Wellness Gifts for Black Friday and the Holidays
The holiday season is upon us, and as we seek to express our love and appreciation for those dear to us, the gift of wellness stands out as a thoughtful and impactful choice. Embracing wellness gifts not only reflects a desire for the well-being of our loved ones but also offers them the opportunity to prioritize self-care. As Black Friday approaches, consider the top wellness gift ideas that bring comfort, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Here's why you should choose wellness gifts for your loved ones, along with the best deals available.
Discover the Transformation: 7 Ways Wellness Retreats Can Revitalize Your Life
When life gets hectic and stress starts taking its toll, it's essential to find a way to recharge and rejuvenate. That's where wellness retreats come into play. These holistic getaways offer a unique opportunity to unplug, unwind, and focus on your well-being. Let's explore why attending a corporate wellness retreat can be a game-changer for your physical and mental health.
The Ultimate Corporate Wellness Program and Employee Benefit
In today's fast-paced corporate world, prioritizing the well-being of employees is not just a trend; it's a strategic necessity. Enter the ultimate corporate wellness program: wellness retreats. In this article, we'll explore what wellness retreats entail, why companies should consider them, and how to seamlessly incorporate them into your corporate wellness program. These retreats can be the key to enhancing productivity, clarity, and mental focus among your workforce.
How Singing Bowls Work: The Science of Singing Bowls
Singing bowls, particularly crystal and alchemy crystal bowls, have captured the fascination of many due to their ethereal tones and therapeutic qualities. But have you ever wondered about the science behind these mystical instruments? In this article, we'll delve into how singing bowls work, their physical effects, and the science that underpins their healing properties.
Everything You Need to Know About Sound Baths
Sound healing is a powerful and ancient practice that has gained popularity in recent years for its ability to promote physical and emotional well-being. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about sound healing, including the differences between sound therapy and sound healing, the various instruments used, and how this transformative therapy works.
Who Are Sound Baths Suitable For?
In today's fast-paced world, finding moments of serenity and relaxation can be a challenge. Sound baths have emerged as a powerful tool for achieving mental clarity, focus, and inner peace. In this article, we will explore the benefits of sound baths, who should consider trying them, and how to experience one. Whether you're an overachiever, a businessperson seeking increased productivity, or simply someone in need of tranquility, sound baths may hold the key to unlocking your inner calm.
Easy Yoga Poses For Relaxation
One of our favorite parts of our morning routine here at Altha is a relaxing 10–15-minute yoga session. Yoga is one of the best, cheapest, and most effective ways to restore the mind-body-soul connection when it is out of balance.
Awaken Your Senses: A Scent and Sound Immersive Experience in Collaboration with Still Life
We are thrilled to announce the launch of our event series, "Awaken Your Senses: A Scent and Sound Immersive Experience," in collaboration with Still Life. After the overwhelming success of our sold-out event on June 30th, we are excited to announce upcoming dates on August 20th, September 22nd, and October 21st.
Pack Your Luggage and Embark on a Journey of Wellness: Announcing Two International Luxury Retreats
Are you ready to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in a transformative wellness experience? We are thrilled to announce two upcoming international luxury retreats that promise to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. Whether you seek serene coastal beauty or vibrant cultural immersion, these retreats offer the perfect opportunity to prioritize self-care and embrace well-being. Join us on a journey to Mexico and Costa Rica, where luxury meets holistic wellness. Read on to discover the details, what to expect, and the many benefits of attending a wellness retreat.
Elevate Your Crystal Bowl Journeys: Embracing the Harmony of Harmonic Covers
As a sound healer, I am no stranger to the importance of protecting my beloved crystal bowls, and Harmonic Life covers have proven to be a true game-changer. These innovative covers provide a safe and secure haven for my instruments, ensuring their well-being during transportation. Made with utmost care and precision, they encompass the bowls in an embrace of protection, ready to carry the healing frequencies to any destination.
What is Eustress? Learn About the Positive Side of Stress
While sound healing therapy dates back to Ancient Greece when it was used in an effort to cure mental disorders, it has become one of the most popular modern wellness trends (often in the form of sound baths).
Love Is in the Air: Our Favorite Necklace for Self-Love
We are thrilled to introduce you to our favorite conscious jewelry brand, LUKI. Created by Love Water founder Ashley Frey, LUKI is an intentional fine jewelry brand dedicated to the power of love.
Water Activation Rituals at Altha
Water is an extremely powerful and divine element; it is 70% of our makeup, we need it to survive, and it has the power to transform our lives. However, did you know that water is also influenced by sound and vibration, and can make an incredible healing tool?