Halo Dyed Hair: Channeling Your Inner Angel

hair highlights
A new hairstyle is an easy way to change your look, giving your hairstyle a fresh, new feel. And your next hairstyle adventure just might involve looking like an angel because this trend is called halo dyed hair.  During the COVID-19 pandemic, the boredom and anxiety of lockdowns have led to more creativity and experimenting with new hair trends. With salons closed, even those not usually up to the task of the DIY hairstyles decided to try out new looks for themselves. And the modern woman is stepping out of her comfort zone, beyond basic styles and colors. After all, if there’s no need to go into the office, who’s going to tell you no? Well, as we step out into the sunshine, it’s time to go big and bold with the latest trends in hair.

What is Halo Dyed Hair?

Plenty of women went with different highlight styles, extensions, or new, edgy cuts. One such trend was the halo light or halo dyed hair. Whether you are a dedicated do-it-yourselfer or plan to return to the salon, we want to give you all the information you need to try this new, angelic look if you’re itching to try something new.  You’ve heard of highlights or low lights to describe hair dye techniques. The halo dyed hair takes away the need to choose between the two. Halo dyed hair is intended to accentuate certain cuts and highlight the face, giving the appearance of a “halo” (hence the name).

How it Works

The technique works light colors throughout the top of the hair, creating a halo effect around the top of the head. It might sound complex, but according to Glamour, the technique itself is actually pretty simple. The idea is to create a more dimensional look since highlights tend to give the hair a more flat, 2D appearance. However, the halo dye technique gives you the appearance of a more voluminous style. Combined with the right cut, it’s a look bound to leave you feeling fresh and confident this year.  To achieve this look, you’ll want to section off your hair into four parts. If you have darker hair, you’ll need to lighten up the strands near the front of the head. This is where you’ll add the blonde. Basically, you’ll section off the top layer of hair and work the blonde into the hairline surrounding the face, accentuating the front of the face. From here, ensure you are following the instructions on the dye, and other than that, it’s fairly simple. 

Hair Dye Tips for a DIY Halo

If you’re about to dye your hair at home, you might want to think about taking advice from the experts. Stylist Jason Hogan of Josh Wood Color recommends those using this halo technique do apply a gloss every six weeks or so to keep the hair looking fresh and healthy. If you want to find tips about general hair care and taking care of your dyed hair at home, one guy to check out is the stylist and YouTuber Brad Mondo. Brad suggests anyone who doesn’t feel confident in what they’re doing go ahead and just see a stylist rather than risk messing up their hair in a spur-of-the-moment burst of creativity. If you decide to go the DIY route,
  • Don’t overbleach your hair.
  • Make sure you clip the top layer of your hair up, so you don’t end up with spots.
  • Section off your hair, preferably into four parts.
  • When you pull hair to color it, use paper-thin sections. 
  • Use your natural hairline to guide you. 
  • Work backwards from the hairline
Not only will this prevent a giant mess all over your house or apartment, but it’ll help you avoid stray hair dye getting into the wrong places and leaving you looking like a cheetah instead of the angel you are. And you want the hair to look just as good pulled back as it does framing your face. If you feel like you have no idea what you’re doing, go to a stylist. At the end of the day, it’s just hair—experiment, be confident, and just have fun with it.

Is Facial Cupping the Next Big Thing?

cupping
Botox, plastic surgery, intermittent fasting—they’ve all gained their 15 minutes of fame in the last few decades. People are always looking for ways to preserve their appearance and fight off good ol’ father time. And acupuncture, yoga, and massage therapy all fall under this same umbrella of “self-care.” The benefits of these practices are all debatable, and some of them carry significant risks if we’re being honest. But if you’re not opposed to a little bit of pain for the sake of beauty (or you just like to try new things) let me introduce you to the next big sensation: facial cupping. Facial cupping is an alternative therapy that uses suction to stimulate target areas of your facial skin. The benefits and risks are still being evaluated. Though facial cupping is gaining popularity, it’s actually been around since early Chinese and Egyptian civilizations. Hijama (as cupping is sometimes called) fell out of practice for the most part in the 17th and 18th centuries. Like intermittent fasting and acupuncture, this practice may involve a serious health risk. So you’ll definitely want to weigh out the pros and cons before making a decision. 

How Does Facial Cupping Actually Work?

If you’ve heard of cupping therapy, you probably get the idea. Facial cupping is basically the same technique, it just focuses on the facial area. Traditional cupping is often used to ease aches and pains, while facial cupping is more of an exercise in vanity. Facial cupping follows a basic set of principles. Suction on your skin pulls additional blood to the area of suction. Think of a vacuum cleaner clinging to a specific part of your skin. According to Healthline.com, this suction triggers “an inflammatory response, flooding the area with white blood cells, platelets, and other healing aids.” In other words, you are tricking your skin into a pain response, flooding more blood to the targeted area. And this concept isn’t too far from pinching your cheeks for a last-minute blush—just more extreme. It’s important to keep the suction cup moving from place to place to avoid potential unsightly bruising. Otherwise, you’ll give an entirely different meaning to the phrase, “moon-faced.”

Potential Benefits of Facial Cupping

When it comes down to whether the effects of this therapy are beneficial, it’s a hot-button issue. And there’s actually an array of positive outcomes reported by long-time cuppers. According to them, facial cupping has been shown to increase circulation, strengthen skin and connective tissues, relax muscle tension, and more. Facial cupping may lead to decreased puffiness, brighter skin and minimize the appearance of wrinkles and scars.

Potential Risks of Facial Cupping

After facial cupping, many people have experienced lightheadedness, dizziness, nausea, and cold sweats. As mentioned earlier, improper facial cupping may also lead to bruising and discoloration. In general, many people consider facial cupping to be a risky activity despite the benefits. 

DIY Facial Cupping

Like many beauty trends, it’s about your tolerance to risk. Feel free to experiment; just consider the risks involved and make an educated decision. Plenty of people do facial cupping on their own, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea. Consider using a professional, especially for your first attempt.

Where Can You Buy Facial Cups?

You can buy facial cups just about anywhere online. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. As with any health product, be sure to research thoroughly and make the best choice for your body. If you’re not comfortable doing facial cupping therapy on your own, don’t risk it. 

Finding a Facial Cup Therapist

The Acupuncture Today Directory allows you to search for qualified facial cup therapists. You might even find an acupuncturist or another traditional Chinese specialist. Depending on the specialist, your session could vary in length. Your session may be as short as 10 minutes, and your therapist will probably suggest that you continue the therapy weekly for ten weeks, then once monthly going forward.  You’ll want to be careful when you’re picking a therapist, just like you would with any healthcare provider. Don’t make any choices that you are not completely comfortable with when it comes to your body. But a quality cupping session could give you that youthful glow. After all, whoever said, “beauty is only skin deep” obviously never tried facial cupping.

EMS Machines: Shocking Muscle Gains

muscles
People are always looking for a way to burn more calories and gain muscle. Traditionally, a good diet and exercise are the best ways to achieve these goals. But with the growing popularity of Electronic Muscle Stimulation technology (EMS), you may be able to accomplish some of your fitness goals with less effort. Or a different kind of effort, at least. Electronic Muscle Stimulation involves electrical impulses directly stimulating your neurons. The stimulation from the EMS unit can be fast or last longer—up to several minutes at a time. The idea is that your body (specifically your muscles) activates your neurons without you needing to use your joints and muscles.

Why People Use EMS Machines

Electronic Muscle Stimulation seems almost too good to be true. Being able to trigger your neurons without actually exerting yourself may sound like science fiction. However, EMS provides an opportunity for more muscle training while removing adding tension on joints and tendons.  While the science is somewhat up in the air, the Journal of Strength and Conditioning concluded that EMS is a “promising alternative to traditional strength training for enhancing the strength parameters and motor abilities.” 

How Does Electronic Muscle Stimulation Work?

The EMS device works on muscle directly. You place the sticky pads directly on your skin at either end of a muscle band. Once the EMS device is activated, an electrical current runs from pad to pad, completing a circuit. Basically, you become a human battery.  EMS devices have a variety of frequencies and settings. Changing the frequencies can activate different muscle fibers. The electronic pulse supplied by an Electronic Muscle Stimulation device can help with fat burning, strength building, and warm-up.

Benefits of EMS

Electronic Muscle Stimulation workouts can be highly efficient, saving you time. As we mentioned before, EMS workouts are also relatively low impact. Your joints may be in significantly less pain after an EMS workout. Because of this, EMS is usually seen as a great option for athletes with back and knee pain.  Another benefit of EMS devices is their impact on auxiliary areas. Unlike most workout routines, the EMS targets all muscles, making you feel some muscles more intensely than others. This targeting can enhance your core strength. EMS is also beneficial for recovering from injuries. Increasing numbers of athletes use EMS technology to stimulate blood flow to a particular area and speed healing.

Potential Dangers of EMS

The scientific community is still somewhat divided on the benefits of EMS. EMS technology will not help your cardiovascular system the way that traditional exercise might. EMS devices are also pretty expensive. Even getting an EMS session from your local gym can be pricey. It is also important to remember that EMS is not for everyone. Pregnant women and children should not use EMS technology. Consult with a medical professional if you are not sure that EMS is appropriate for you. 

FDA Regulations for EMS

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the use and sale of EMS within the United States. Their website indicates that they will receive reports of device malfunctions through MedWatch. The FDA has received reports of shocks, burns, bruising, skin irritation, and pain associated with EMS devices.  The majority of EMS treatments take place as prescription treatments for specific medical conditions. Doctors may use electrical muscle stimulators for muscle re-education, relaxation of spasms, prevention of muscle atrophy, and more (according to the FDA’s website). The FDA has only approved one over-the-counter EMS device. That device is the Slendertone Flex marketed by BMR NeuroTech, Inc. It’s cleared specifically for toning, strengthening, and firming abdominal muscles. 

EMS Considerations

The scientific community is divided when it comes to the pros and cons of this technology. While under the use of a medical professional, it seems that electronic muscle stimulation can be beneficial technology. EMS devices have helped with recovery, muscle spasms, and a whole lot more. But the idea that EMS will burn all of your belly fat while you sit and watch television is, sadly, just a myth. It’s simply not the function of this technology. EMS currently represents a relatively unproven and costly technology. Before considering the use of EMS, educate yourself and have a conversation with your healthcare provider.

What is Doga? A Brief Introduction to Dog Yoga

dog yoga
One day, a smart yogi woke up and said, “Let’s add animals to our yoga classes.” Good move, yogi, good move. One of these animal-based yogas is dog yoga. The incredibly reductionist version of dog yoga is yoga with dogs. It is the dog equivalent of goat yoga, where you do your usual yoga routine in a roomful of animals that can interrupt you in a number of hilarious ways. Some studios may allow you to bring your dog to yoga class, too.  But the real dog yoga is called doga. Doga is just as beneficial for dogs as it is for humans and is a great way to start and stick with the practice. It’s easy to set up at home and it’s never too late to start. Let’s learn more about this twist on the traditional practice.

Why You Need Doga (doe-guh)

Doga involves you and your dog and engages both of you in a way that improves your relationship, eases stress, and still gives you a complete yoga workout. The hope of doga is that it helps resolve any dog behavioral issues stemming from stress and anxiety (eating the couch, jumping, barking, etc.). Typically speaking, if your dog is healthy enough to introduce a new form of exercise, isn’t on any prescription medication, or suffering from an ongoing disease, they are a good candidate for this form of doga. All you need is an open space, a mat, and a dog!

The Benefits of Doga

When you practice doga, you want to consider the benefits to your dog first. Fortunately, there are potentially several benefits for your dog even in doga’s simplest form.
  • Relaxation
  • Can improve physical and mental health
  • Bonding and socialization
  • Allows you to see how your dog is moving (a health check-in)

Doga Positions

The yoga positions for doga aren’t as varied as they are for human forms of yoga, as you will need to be your dog’s yoga partner. However, this may be a great way to enter into the practice with your animal yoga partner. Start small with the following poses and then see what else you can do. With better training techniques involved in your routine, you could have them doing downwards facing dog with you!

Seated Positions

If you’re in a seated yoga position, encourage your dog to come and sit beside you. Focus on your breathing, taking visible deep breaths and gracefully exhaling. Of course, you don’t have to exaggerate. Remain peaceful and watch as your pup becomes interested in what you’re doing. This may encourage your dog to reach a peaceful place, too–they may end up laying down in front of you.

Child’s Pose

Enter into a traditional child’s pose, toes touching and arms reaching over and in front of your head. Have your pup lay down facing you. Lower your face towards them and gently touch your nose against theirs. Just a note, be careful that your dog is comfortable with close contact–you don’t want any accidental bites to the nose.

Happy Baby

This doga pose is definitely more for your dog’s entertainment–and maybe they’ll even start to mimic you! Start in a ball on the floor with knees pulled up to your shoulders (you don’t have to bring them up that far, but keep them in line with your shoulders. Now reach to your feet and pull your legs apart. You can gently rock side to side for a back massage or enjoy stretch as you press down on your tailbone. For your dog, they could do one of many things:
  • Rollover on their back
  • Sit and watch you
  • Walk away uninterested in what you are doing
  • Attempt to play with you, making you break the pose and show your pet a little love

Uttanasana

The Uttanasana is another easy move that easily engages your dog. Bend down as to touch your toes and reach out to your dog. They will eventually understand that you bending down is their time to receive the loving pets they want. 

Downward Facing Dog Yoga is on the Way Up

Dogs provide a special kind of chaos in that their innocent charm, high energy, and need to interact pleasantly disrupt our practice with laughter, smiles, and cuddly sunshine. In other words, dogs help us live in the moment and they don’t judge us if we stumble at the simplest of yoga poses.

A Freudian Snuggle Session: All About Cuddle Therapy

couple cuddle
Life is emotionally hard, and sometimes all you need is someone to hug, or better yet, cuddle with to get you through it all. You know, someone to cozy up to, close your eyes, and exchange body heat and platonic care and concern for each other. Unfortunately, this resource isn’t readily available to all of us—even people who have a qualifying significant other can’t always get the cuddles they need. That’s why there are cuddle therapists, trained cuddle professionals.

What is a Cuddle Therapist?

Cuddle therapy isn’t new, but it certainly hasn’t been around that long. Its specific audience also makes it less known than other touch therapy practices like massage therapy. Despite its limited appeal, the quirky nature of the practice has resulted in increased attention over the years. In a basic sense, cuddle therapy is a nonsexual physical intimacy service. It is a holistic treatment for loneliness, stress, anxiety, touch deprivation, and other turbulent emotions. You know how there is dog therapy for stressed-out college students during finals? This is like that, except with people (and obviously, you don’t play with them like a dog).

How Does Cuddle Therapy Work?

A typical session would involve a meeting before the cuddle session begins between the therapist and the client. They would discuss any hesitations, anything that makes them uncomfortable, etc. Once specific guidelines and boundaries are set, and the client discusses how they would like to be cuddled, the cuddling begins! During the session, there could be music, talking, silence, or all three, and the therapist is there to hold and listen. Sessions could last anywhere between 30 minutes to two hours, and some cuddle clinics offer virtual cuddling sessions.

Virtual Cuddling Sessions

Strange to think about, I know. Touch therapy you would expect to be touch—how else could it work? Well, it does, somehow.  Virtual cuddling therapy is more of a mental cuddling, offering companionship and traditional therapy and stress management techniques. A client may experience guided meditation, deep breathing, active listening, experience exchange, and consent training. Virtual is a great option for those who cannot leave their homes or dislike physical touch. The idea of virtual cuddling, though weird now, holds a lot of promise for the future. Who knows what virtual cuddle therapy solutions the world of VR will come up with?

What’s the Science Behind Cuddle Therapy?

Cuddle therapy is technically a form of touch therapy, so there is quite a bit of science to back the practice up.  Touch therapy operates on the idea that physical touch activates the orbitofrontal cortex. This part of the brain sits right between the eyes (orbits, being your eyes; frontal being the front part of your brain). The orbitofrontal cortex plays a major role in social-emotional behavior. It is also linked to feelings of reward and compassion.  Even a simple touch can activate this part of the brain and ultimately increase the positive outcomes of certain situations. For instance, Tiffany Field, Director of the Touch Therapy Institute, found that, unlike the stigma that surrounds autistic children and touch, they enjoy being massaged. Another study conducted at UC Berkeley showed that a teacher’s eye contact and a friendly pat on the back can boost student participation rates. Touch therapy also increases the body’s production of oxytocin and dopamine. These hormones help with cognitive function, relaxation, focus and attention, memory, and social bonding. 

Benefits of Cuddle Therapy

That said, the benefits of cuddle therapy are many.
  • Aids in pain management
  • Helps sleep for those with insomnia
  • Improve immune system and heart health
  • Lower cortisol levels. Cortisol is the hormone responsible for stress
  • Restore a feeling of connection to the world around you
Of course, the results of cuddle therapy depend on the person. A) not everyone will enjoy it simply because not everyone is a “toucher,” and B) physiological responses to touch hinge on pre-existing conditions, mentality, experience, etc.

Only if You’re Comfortable

Cuddle therapy is not for everyone, but you shouldn’t rule it out entirely. Even if your physical space bubble is small, this is still a form of professional touch therapy. A therapist will do all they can to make you feel comfortable during your snuggle. And hey, maybe you’ll walk out of their office feeling a little more right with the world! Or you can still avoid it altogether—the only good touch therapy is consensual.

Wake Up Your Senses with Coffee Enemas

black coffee
How do you take your coffee? Every day, millions of people across the world wake up to a hot, steaming cup of Joe. The effects of coffee are well-documented. Coffee gives you a burst of energy, dehydrates you, and in many cases, can cause you to evacuate your bladder and bowels. However, for some people, this just isn’t enough. Coffee enemas are considered an alternative medicine technique by some and complete madness by others. Coffee enemas are for constipated people, much like a laxative. Overall, an overwhelming majority of doctors don’t recommend this “procedure” for any reason.

What are Coffee Enemas?

A coffee enema involves the same techniques as a traditional enema. A medical enema is used to relieve constipation. Liquid is inserted into the rectum in a sort of desperate attempt to dislodge major constipation. According to Medical News Today, people will commonly use water, mineral oil, or soapy water for a traditional enema. But for some, this is not enough. In coffee enemas, liquid coffee is inserted into the rectum in the place of water or oil. While a coffee enema is said to potentially have some health benefits, there is danger involved as well.

Diving into Gerson Therapy

If you are looking into coffee enemas, you may have heard of Max Gerson. Max Gerson was an early advocate of coffee enemas. Gerson also advocated for a plant-based diet. According to the Gerson Institute, Gerson did not invent coffee enemas, and they have been around since the late 1800s. The “Gerson Therapy” today consists of cleansing and detoxifying the body through the use of coffee enemas and a plant-based diet. 

Potential Benefits of a Coffee Enema

As mentioned before, Coffee Enemas are not medically recommended. Having said that, people have reported some benefits. According to Dr. Danielle Saunders, many have used coffee enemas to treat a variety of conditions, including IBS, constipation, cancer, and liver dysfunction. She indicates that coffee enemas may also lead to boosted immunity, increased energy, improved clarity, and restored bowel function. Always consult a healthcare professional before considering a “procedure” of this kind.

Potential Dangers of a Coffee Enema

When prepared incorrectly, a coffee enema can cause a host of issues. According to Saunders, pregnant women and children are most at risk. Potential dangers from a coffee enema include rectal tears, infection, dehydration, burns, and even death. Please consider that other enemas are commercially available before attempting a coffee enema.

Steps to Perform a Coffee Enema

This is going to be repetitive but please consult a medical professional before considering a coffee enema. According to Medical News Today, here are the general steps when performing a coffee enema.
  1. First, the coffee should not be hot at all. Burns are a real concern here.
  2. Mix 2 tablespoons of coffee in one liter of distilled water. Make sure there are no grounds left in the coffee. Allow the coffee to cool completely.
  3. Arrange the seating so that the person receiving the enema can lie on their left side. Consider an area near the bathroom.
  4. Instill the coffee mixture into the rectum using an appropriate enema system, pouring in as much of the solution as possible.
  5. The person receiving the enema should hold the solution for at least 10 minutes.
  6. Finally, they should try to use the bathroom.
Be sure not to do enemas too often. Overdoing it can be dangerous as well. According to Medical News Today, not much is known about the potential long-term benefits and risks, so most doctors will not recommend the practice. There are other, safer enemas available. There are also more practical and less invasive means of treating constipation. If a person has consistent constipation, they likely have an underlying medical need.

Before You Grind Those Beans

If you are thinking about coffee enemas for yourself, don’t rush out to your nearest Starbucks just yet. Before making any health decisions, it is a good idea to consult with a medical professional that you trust. Ask if there’s an easier treatment for your condition and if the dangers really outweigh the “rewards.” And most of all, is this really the best use of that Cinnamon Dolce Latte?

Dating During COVID – What to ask

couple during dinner date
Many women feel uncomfortable dating during COVID, and that’s understandable. During this time, dating becomes more difficult because it’s more serious and requires more effort without as much one-on-one personal contact. If you’re planning to date during this time, there are some tips you can follow. Read on to learn more about dating during COVID.   One thing to keep in mind is that the first thing you need to do is ask yourself if you’d feel comfortable meeting someone during this time. Obviously, you don’t want to put yourself in harm’s way, but you should be honest about your fears with your date. You should think about if you would be comfortable meeting in person, where and how frequently. You should also be upfront and communicate that to your date.

Step 1: How Are You Handling the Pandemic & Health Status

While dating during a pandemic can be an unnerving experience, it’s also a unique opportunity to learn more about yourself and your date. While the first video chat may seem awkward, it’s important to be upfront about your health status and you should probably let your date know your thoughts on what precautions you are taking as well as if you have had Covid. If you are not sure, try asking them if they’ve had any exposure to the virus. Afterward, you can decide if you want to meet them in person.

Step 2: What to Ask

Meeting In Person

During a pandemic, it’s important to remember that you’re putting your safety first. This means that you’ll need to ask the right questions and be especially cautious about exposing yourself to other people. You should also ask if the person is willing to meet you with a mask and if that person has been vaccinated. Once you feel comfortable with the answers you receive, you’ll be able to decide whether or not to meet in person. There are plenty of ways to avoid COVID during a date.

Who Else Are You Dating?

During a pandemic, you should never meet more than one person in a close time period. This is especially true if the person is dating other people. It’s best to limit new relationships to a single person, as this may put your health in jeopardy. It is definitely worth asking if your date is meeting multiple new people and if they have recently taken any COVID tests. It’s ok to ask these questions as it is keeping you safe and healthy, which should be your number one priority.

Lifestyle

Another great way to stay safe while dating during a pandemic is to ask about a person’s lifestyle. This will help you determine if the other person makes informed decisions, takes unnecessary risks, exposes himself or herself or is conservative with social contact.

Conclusion

When dating during a pandemic, you should always put your health and safety first. It’s important to ask questions about the health risks your date may be taking and who he or she has been exposed to. If you’re dating someone with a COVID infection, be sure to ask them about the procedures they’ve gone through in case you contract the virus. It’s also smart to ask if the person is wearing a mask. Once you have taken the necessary precautions and asked the right questions, then it’s time to have some fun and lighten the mood. We wish you luck!

2022 In The Workplace: What To Expect

One obvious thing about work is that it has changed over the past two years. With this, the question that has been brewing recently, in the minds of many people is, what will work diversity look like in 2022. Situated at an inflexion point, we are currently thriving in a whole new reality where things ranging from work tools and collaboration methods to communication methods have taken a new turn. Companies are looking at several ways to make work more flexible, inclusive and convenient for employees. Let’s look at some projected workplace adjustments to look out for in 2022.

More Hybrid Jobs

With hybrid work already a thing in 2021, the future of it being solidified as a workplace norm is glistening. However, more planning and structure will be needed to designate the perfect day for remote work and the day employees’ physical presence is required. For some innovation, a simple zoom facetime may just be what is needed. In some other cases, employees may have to jump into their car and zoom right into the office. In 2022, employers are certainly looking at making this the case. Hoping to hit a multinational job in your chosen firm? Get ready to live a dual life. If done properly, the potential of having a more inclusive as well as diverse work structure will greatly depend on the flexibility in-person/remote work hybrid offers.

Virtual Meetings Will Improve

With the omicron variant spreading faster than any other variant we know now, no employer is willing to risk the lives of the staff members by holding real-time meetings. This communication pattern has seen wide adoption and growth in 2021 and is looking at being improved on in 2022. Of course, organizations that can effectively establish great communication across all work hierarchies will fair better in their productivity. Most companies have test-run their virtual meeting platforms and several teams are figuring out already, a better way to reach all work divisions promptly and enhance their productivity.

Artificial Intelligence may Take Some Work Off your Hands

With more attention-getting paid to AI, we are looking at a year with better technology-based decisions. Most companies are already running artificial intelligence inclusion solutions. This takes the responsibility of creating equity initiatives in the hands of the HR team. They no longer have to do it manually, but can rely on AI for the best approach and results. In 2022, there will be a slight to a mild increase in the use of AI to build reports with clear and concise data. Also, with a world pandering towards flattening gender recruitment gaps, artificial intelligence will be relied on greatly for this. Most companies are also looking at improving their imagery as regards the hiring ratio between men and women as well as the pay gap. Scandinavian countries have taken the lead and most countries are looking at following suit.  The question of “how to do this” will greatly depend on your AI’s inclusion and utility.

Human Resource Roles will be Taken More Seriously

Hiring people who have flexibly adjusted to the current work trend is one thing. Hiring people to hire people who can adjust to the current work trend is another. Human resource roles have suddenly, over the years become more diverse and demanding, and 2022 won’t be an exception. Companies now pay more attention to making sure they find suitable individuals who understand the intricacies of dealing with the abrupt change of work framework caused by the pandemic. Also with more companies now seeing diversity and inclusion as a concern, CEOs are more interested now than ever in finding candidates that can help identify gaps and disparities with data-based evidence on pay and recruitment.

More DEI Training amongst Staff

Diversity, equity and inclusion training is one of the top diversity trends we’ve witnessed over the last few years. It is the simplest way to communicate what to do and what to stay away from in the workplace. Most training though may feature virtual meetings rather than in-person ones. Certain key concerns like understanding systemic racism, spotting implicit biases as well as creating action plans are some modern-day companies’ mantras. These have driven higher productivity and tolerance among employees.

Conclusion

Companies are certainly going to double down on hosting training that allows individuals to feel safer in their workspace. Recruitments for marginalized groups or genders are also opening up to foster better inclusivity. All these advancements in the workplace are definitely going to inch a step further to create a safer and more flexible workspace for different employees across diverse groups, races and gender.