Lifestyle

From Stigma to Support: Youth Mental Health Transformation

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From Stigma to Support Transforming the Landscape of Youth Mental Health

Conversations on mental health remain shrouded in silence because the majority do not seek help owing to stigma, a lack of understanding, and insufficient access to services. This article aims to shed light on the significance of mental health among youth, explore the barriers to achieving a stigma-free conversation, and offer insights into how education, support, and open dialogue can transform the landscape of mental health for the better. Recent figures present a worrying picture; according to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 20% of young people worldwide have a mental health disorder, while one in four Nigerians is estimated to be living with a mental disorder. The mental health landscape among Nigerian youth, characterized by an increasingly intricate array of challenges, is underscored by escalating rates of anger, anxiety, panic attacks, stress, and other mental health conditions among young individuals. This spectrum encompasses other disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, anorexia, body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), borderline personality disorder (BPD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), paranoia, and issues related to personality disorders, among others. The implications of these mental health problems are profound, extending beyond the affected individuals to impact their families, communities, and the broader societal fabric. A confluence of contemporary causes, reflecting both global trends and context-specific variables, are leading factors in the prevalence of mental health disorders among Nigerian youth. Several are listed below: Economic Instability and Unemployment: High unemployment and poverty levels lead to stress and depression due to financial pressures. Educational Pressures: Intense competition among students and limited educational resources cause stress and anxiety among students. Social and Cultural Expectations: Cultural norms and societal pressures regarding marriage, career, and gender roles induce stress and feelings of inadequacy. Political and Social Instability: Fear and anxiety stem from safety concerns, political unrest, and social violence. Health Challenges: Diseases and limited healthcare access exacerbate mental health problems. Substance Abuse: Increased use of psychoactive substances results in substance use disorders and mental health issues. Family Issues and Domestic Violence: Instability and violence in the home environment lead to psychological distress. Social Media and Cyberbullying: Cyberbullying and the pressure from social media contribute to self-esteem issues and mental disorders. Stigmatization and Lack of Awareness: Stigma and insufficient understanding of mental health prevent young people from seeking help, exacerbating mental health conditions. Understanding and addressing the stigma around youth mental health is pivotal in encouraging young individuals to seek help. This stigma, deeply entrenched in cultural and societal norms, manifests as misconceptions, fear, and silence, leaving youths feeling isolated or ashamed. The consequences of the stigma are significant, deterring individuals from accessing necessary care, which can worsen mental well-being and negatively impact academic performance, social relationships, and overall life quality. Moreover, the importance of awareness and education in mental health plays a critical role in combatting this issue. Initiatives aimed at increasing awareness and normalizing mental health conversations can diminish stigma and encourage help-seeking behaviours. Education, particularly when integrated into school curriculums, equips students’ understanding of mental health complexities and fosters empathy, promoting a supportive environment. This combination of demystifying mental health issues, challenging stereotypes, and incorporating mental health education in schools, along with public awareness campaigns, is essential for dismantling barriers and changing the stigma landscape, enabling young people to freely discuss their experiences and seek the necessary support to overcome their challenges. Addressing the mental health crisis among youth requires a holistic approach that encompasses raising awareness, enhancing education, and ensuring access to support tools and resources. It also involves advocating for systemic changes and promoting both personal and collective responsibility towards mental health. Ensuring youth have access to information and tangible services, such as hotlines, counselling, mental health apps, and safe spaces for sharing and support in both online and community settings, is crucial. These resources should be widely promoted in youth-centric venues like schools, social media, and community centres to enhance accessibility and awareness. At the policy and societal levels, advocacy for increased funding, better access to mental health services, and the integration of mental health education into school curriculums are critical. Efforts must be made to challenge media narratives to ensure positive and accurate representations of mental health. This includes implementing workplace policies that support work-life balance, such as flexible work arrangements and mental health days, which demonstrate a societal commitment to prioritizing mental health. Conclusion Tackling the youth mental health crisis demands salient strategies encompassing awareness, education, resource accessibility, policy advocacy, and a supportive culture via individual and community efforts. By collectively addressing stigma and fostering an open, supportive environment, we can pave the way for a future where mental health is openly discussed and prioritized. This commitment to change and mutual support is essential for enabling everyone to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Let’s all be part of the solution in our journey towards improved mental health. ALSO READ: From Hobbies to Personal Effectiveness

NIMASA At 18 : A New Ever Revolving Body

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NIMASA AT 18: AN EVER REVOLVING BODY

On a calm, cold night, I was standing right beside the river. The warm water rushing onto my feet as I wondered how far we had come. How we went from being very insensitive when it came to water bodies to indeed knowledgeable individuals. This is definitely all thanks to NIMASA for enforcing the laws of MARPOL. The pollution of marine bodies, which had been a subject of concern for so many years now, even became more serious around the mid-20th century when industrialization, increased shipping activities, chemical spills, and sewage spills led to an incredible rise in marine body pollution. To an extent, we could say everyone was really carefree, and all we cared about was actually getting rid of our waste. None of us cared to know the damage it was doing to where we dumped it. The ocean, which covers more than 70 percent of the earth’s surface, is definitely far larger than what the land covers. We turned it to an enemy where we could go ahead and dump whatever we wanted; the big factories were also passing out their waste directly into the water bodies. So, when it turned on us and started its wrath, I was not surprised. From experiencing all sorts of waterborne diseases to the effect on aquatic life and, at the end, the effect on us. Shall we even talk about the destruction of properties caused by this? I have an experience to share. We used to live near a river body, but not so close, as it was at least two streets from ours. People automatically turned it into a dumping ground. So when a heavy storm started that night, windows rattled and roofs drummed, and we all, unaware of the heavy rain falling, had nowhere to go. Blocked by the waste that had been dumped in it, the river tore its banks, and, oh my! The destruction it caused was so indelible. People’s houses were stripped, properties carted away, and even the piggery farm near the river was not left out. There was not one single pig left when we all got there the next morning. That was the day I saw elderly people cry like babies; it was really bad. It was the first case I experienced, and it will definitely remain evergreen in my memory. I guess this and several other cases broadcast on TV made NIMASA swing into action, inculcating values from the MARPOL and thereby coming to our rescue. They brought up laws binding the oil spillers, the refuse and sewage dumpers, and the industries that had turned the ocean into waste land. Everyone who contributed to the pollution was held under these laws. If you refuse to obey, you face the consequences. Sometimes I try to imagine what Nigeria might have been like if not for the timely and consistent interference of NIMASA. Oh boy! Disastrous would have been an understatement. Although, we are not where we want to be yet but the level that has been achieved is indeed very significant. We now have to an extent, peaceful ocean bodies, safe and healthy aquatic lives, conscious humans, and, overall, an undisturbed marine life. This indeed leads us to the theme of this year’s World Maritime Day, which is “MARPOL @ 50: Our commitment goes on.” This theme, aside from outlining the achievements of MARPOL, was also to enunciate the need to decarbonize maritime transport for sustainable development. I believe this theme was chosen to highlight the need to reduce carbon emissions from the maritime industry and find ways to make it more sustainable. It is definitely a big challenge, because carbon fuels keep being one of the most dangerous and yet unavoidable fuel of this century. Its effect on the ecosystem has been quite distinct and it has even led to the depletion of our ozone layer. With this, I believe one can only imagine its effect on the marine body. Though it might still seem quite oblique to some people, marine transportation is gradually becoming the new normal, and it has definitely evolved from the traditional one majority of us are used to. The use of ships and vessels, ferries, tourist cruises, and even our naval and military vessels makes use of carbon fuels. These carbon fuels release carbon monoxide, which can be very toxic when inhaled, and also carbon dioxide, which can affect the climate adversely when emitted in high amounts. So when acidification of marine bodies, climate change, a rise in temperature, a gradual destruction of the marine habitat, and the likes kicked up, it served as a wake-up call that carbon fuels were not only depleting our ecosystem but had also started depleting our rivers too. This increased the need to go carbon-free, which I must say that it is about time. There are several other aspects we can venture into and even biofuels are not left out. According to Web Search, “biofuels are fuels derived from renewable biological resources, such as plants, algae, or organic waste. They are considered a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuels because they can be produced from biomass, which is a replenishable resource.”. There are different types, which include bioethanol, biodiesel, biogas, and even advanced biofuels. Based on my research, venturing majorly into biogas as fuel for our transport system would totally not be a bad idea. This is because biogas is produced through a natural biological process called anaerobic digestion, which involves the breakdown of organic materials by microorganisms in the absence of oxygen. Since biogas includes a selection of feedstock like agricultural residues, manure, sewage sludge, food waste, and other organic material, it would serve as a really great method of transferring our wastes into something useful while also not endangering the sea and our ecosystem at large in the process. When the gas is generated through the step-by-step process, it could either be liquefied or compressed and then used as fuel in vehicles. Biogas is renewable … Read more

Fruits, When Best to Eat Them

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Fuits, When Best To Eat Them

Fruits! I was just entering the door of my room after a hectic day’s work when I received a call from my father. He said he was calling to report my mother to me, and I was like, “Ha! Why me? Why not report her to your firstborn? Moreover, what has she done this time?” He said he was calling me to tell me that my mom never listens to what he says. Because he wanted to imbibe the culture of healthy living, He told me that that morning, momma ate a whole medium-sized pawpaw he brought in from the pawpaw tree in the house’s backyard immediately after her breakfast. Now, she is complaining of constipation at around 6 pm, the same day. He said he saw a WhatsApp broadcast that one is not supposed to eat fruits immediately after a meal as it causes a slowing emptying of the stomach that can lead to the food taking so longer in the stomach than usual that it can cause the food to start rotting slowly in the stomach. Due to the type of lifestyle we lived while I was still living at home, I asked to speak with momma, and she told me that I should not listen to my father, that she was not feeling constipated, that she was just a little problem passing out stool that she was not constipated at all. Dad was then complaining that she had not been to the toilet for “number 2” for the past 3 to 4 days and that she usually goes almost every other morning. What are the stories that are been told online? That your fruits should not be eaten after a meal because it causes more work for the digestive system and causes slow emptying? That you should not eat it on an empty stomach because you will not be able to utilize the nutrients in them. You should not eat your fruits towards the end of the day because it increases the acidity of your stomach and causes ulcers, and so on. My stand and take on all these? There is absolutely no human being on the face of the planet that should be restricted on their fruit intake only except if they have related disease conditions where they cannot digest the sugar present in them (sucrose) or there is the presence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and even in the case of DM, their intake is closely and strongly monitored, they are not completely restricted. There is no specific stipulated time for the consumption. Also, people diagnosed with duodenal ulcers are told to restrict their intake from the citric family, which includes orange, lemon, lime, grape, clementine, pomelo, tangelo, etc. You can take your fruits hours before your next meal, you can take them a few minutes before your next meal, a few minutes after your meal, the first meal of the day, the last meal of the day, as a snack, as a dessert, or whenever you see it fit. This is because there has been no scientific backing that their consumption at any time of the day negatively affects the digestion of your meal to such a large extent that will you need urgent medical attention. It is beneficial to the body to eat at least 2 servings daily as they contain vitamins and minerals, which are micronutrients needed by the body to help metabolize macronutrients in our main meals. Moreover, eating them combined with vegetables is usually termed as the soldiers of the body that help with the immune function of the body system to help the body fight against infections and illnesses. After a quick clerking of my mother, I asked about her 72-hour dietary recall, water intake, activity level, fruit intake, and general oral intake, including medications. My dear mother took a medication that helps stop stooling about 3 days ago because she had a job screening, she was so nervous that she had to medicate herself because she has a nervous stomach. So, after her screening, she had been eating fruits with all her meals. Just because, not even because she wanted to visit the toilet for “number 2”. My father just happened to notice that she had not been going to the toilet early in the morning like always. He was not aware that she had medicated herself. So, it was never about how and when she ate her fruits. If you notice that after eating a particular fruit, you get a running stomach or start to pass watery stool frequently, you should refrain from eating the specified fruit. My Rendition of the Essay. Are you caught in the endless cycle of confusion about the “right” time to eat them? It’s time to clear the air and debunk the myths that have long dictated our fruit consumption habits. The widespread misconceptions about eating fruits only at certain times of the day have led to unnecessary dietary restrictions and anxiety. Here’s why these myths are unfounded and detrimental to our health and well-being. Myth 1: Don’t Eat Fruits Right After Meals The belief that consuming them immediately after meals slows down digestion and leads to food rotting in the stomach is a myth that lacks scientific evidence. Our digestive system is well-equipped to handle various foods, including fruits, regardless of the timing. Myth 2: Avoid Fruits on an Empty Stomach Another popular myth suggests that eating fruits on an empty stomach is harmful and prevents nutrient absorption. This myth is not entirely true. Fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber; the body can utilize these nutrients effectively, whether consumed on an empty stomach or not. Myth 3: Eating Fruits at Night Causes Acidity The idea that consuming fruits towards the end of the day increases stomach acidity and leads to ulcers is another unfounded claim. Fruits are generally alkaline and can help neutralize acidity in the body, not cause it. The Reality: Fruits are Flexible Friends The truth is, … Read more

The Secret to Having An Improved Quality Life

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The Secret to Having An Improved Quality Life

Quality life occurs as a result of the small decisions we make for ourselves every day. The secret to having a perfect day is knowing that it starts the night before. Usually, a perfect day translates to a productive day, right? Ticking tasks off your to-do lists and revelling in the satisfaction that comes with it. Below are things you can do to improve the quality of your life daily: Do away with your phone 30 minutes before you sleep. I know we can’t tell when we fall asleep but hear me out. You might have fixed your sleep time to 10 pm. So by 9:30 pm, ensure your phone isn’t in your hand. Silence it too so you won’t be tempted by notification pings. Even if you don’t have a fixed bedtime, your body will tell you it’s tired, it needs rest and that’s what you’ll work with. When you’re on your bed, try to recount how you spent your day, what you did well, what you need to improve on, and so on. When you wake up in the morning, DON’T TAKE YOUR PHONE IMMEDIATELY! I had to yell that, I’m sorry. Instead, grab a notepad and your pen, write down all the things you hope to accomplish, and time-box them. Here are examples of what that should look like; Pray – 6:00 am Brush my teeth immediately after praying Change into my exercise clothes immediately after brushing my teeth and do 20 jumping jacks Breakfast Wash my toilet Check my mail – 4:00 pm Zoom meeting – 5:30 pm If at any point I feel idle and catch myself about to start/scrolling through my phone with no purpose, here are things I can do: Open the Udemy app and catch up on my online course Write a linked-in article Send cold emails Tidy up my room Fold my laundry I hope I’ve been able to encourage you from what I’ve written so far to start keeping a to-do list. But when you’re writing it, keep these things in mind; Make your goals clear and specific. You can add extra columns to yours; “What? Why? When?” like in the example below ???? WHAT? WHY? WHEN? ·       Read economics note ·       Because I have a test next week ·       As soon as I wake up from my nap ·       Tidy my room ·       Because I feel happier when my space is clean ·       At 10:30 am ·       Call my mum ·       Because it makes her happy ·       At 5 pm   Be realistic with your time and effort. If you write 20 tasks and each of them will take 2 hours on average, not only is it impossible for you to finish it, but you might also feel overwhelmed and disappointed with yourself when you see there are still lots of things you haven’t done. Nothing is too silly to be on your list. This is about you, no one else. It’d be more effective if you write it on a piece of paper and pin it on the wall in a central location. this way, whenever you pass by it, you review it. Mark the ones that have been done, and note the remaining ones. Lastly, if you’re a believer, you must engage in an act called ‘Shukr’. Shukr means ‘Thanks’. It’s just acknowledging your helplessness and giving full credit to God for the gift of life and making it easy for you to achieve all you’ve accomplished. Then pray for Him to make you consistent and bless you in it. READ ALSO: 10 Habits That Will Change Your Life Positively WHEW! That was a lot, but I hope you get the idea. Everything boils down to discipline and self-awareness. Most times, our phones are nothing but a mere distraction and source of anxiety so if we can all learn to detach our souls from it, there would certainly be great improvement in the quality of life.

Healthy Ways of Burning Fat in the Body (Part 1)

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Healthy Ways of Burning Fat in the Body (Par

I want to prepare your mind before reading this article that you should not expect a mysterious n immediate miracle, yes! You!! God works in a way but never forget that while you pray, you work because prayer without hard work is fruitless. You should be committed to your workout or diet series before expecting a result. Don’t expect to see “how to slim down in 60 days.” Presently, more than 80% of humans are battling with loosing fat, not only stomach, common parts of our bodies. It is sad to see people easily scammed by loose fat in a week without going to the gym, of course it may work for some people, but not all. Before I go further, I would advice that you know what works best for, what your body likes, hates, and cannot accommodate. You should treat your body with utmost care the same way you value your skin and how it looks. Jim Rohn said: “Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” Also, be selective of the information you entertain. We are told that the internet has all the needed information but we must sieve and not act on all. The Honest and Healthy ways to lose fat, which have been proven genuine. They include: • Try Intermittent Fasting: Intermittent fasting (IF) involves short period of fasts and consuming little meals during the day. Several Studies Trusted Source have shown that short-term intermittent fasting which lasts for 24 weeks duration, leads to weight in an individual. The most common IF methods are: a. The 5:2 Diet: Fast on 2/3 out of every 7 days. It is advisable to eat 500-600 calories when fasting. b. The 16/8 method: Fast for 16 hours and eat only during an 8-hour window. For most people, the 8-hour window would be around noon to 8 p.m. c. Alternate Day Fasting Trust Source (ADF): Here, it is advisable to eat a typical meal on non-fasting days and fast every other day(s). More so, there are great apps which are helpful when doing an intermittent fast. • Get Enough Sleep: Studies have shown that sufficient sleep helps maintain a healthy weight. Going to bed early and setting alarm to wake up a bit late is effective for a healthy weight. Also, little research has shown that sleeping for about 1 hour per night leads to weight loss in people. While some object that lack of sleep may contribute to alterations in hunger hormones, increased appetite, and a higher risk of obesity. As I earlier said, you should know what works best for you. Everyone needs a different amount of sleep, at least 7 hours of sleep per night beneficial for weight management. I would advise you stick to a regular sleep schedule, limit your intake of caffeine in the evening, and minimize your use of electronic devices before bed. • Begin a Strength Training Plan: This kind of exercise helps muscles contract against resistance. It increases strength and builds muscles, it mostly requires lifting weights. Studies reveals that strength training has numerous health benefits, particularly loss of fat. Doing bodyweight exercises, lifting weights, and using gym equipment are a few easy ways to get started with strength training. • Have an Eating Plan: You need to pick and stick to a healthy eating plan. The benefit of a low-carb approach is that it involves learning better food choices, no calorie counting is necessary. Generally, a low-carb way of eating shifts your intake away from problem foods, those high in carbs, and sugar, and without much fiber, like bread, and sodas. Conclusion There are endless things to do to lose fat, which I will further discuss in my subsequent articles. The brutal truth is losing fat is not easy, but with consistency you will get a great result.  

The Magic of Laughter: How Smiles Spark Happiness

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The Magic of Laughter: How Smiles Spark Happiness

Did you know that everybody laughs in almost exactly the same way? Robert Province, a neuroscientist and professor of psychology while observing humans, discovered that when we laugh, we have a short burst of sound about a fifteenth of a second long. If we try changing the rules of laughter, it suddenly doesn’t sound like laughter anymore. Laughter is similar to a secret love language we all share. It’s a special way we connect and feel joy together. Did you know that laughter does more than just make us happy? It actually helps our minds and hearts stay healthy. Let’s take a closer look at how laughter and humor can make us feel better inside. Importance of Laughter It lifts our Mood and makes us Feel Good: When we laugh, our brains release special chemicals that make us feel happy. It’s like a tiny party happening inside our heads! These chemicals, called dopamine and endorphins, help lift our moods and make us feel good. It makes us Work Better: Laughter also makes our brains work better. It’s like a workout for our minds! When we laugh, different parts of our brains start talking to each other, helping us think in creative ways. So, not only does it make us feel happy, it also makes our brains super smart! It defeats Stress: Have you ever noticed that after a good laugh, you feel relaxed and happy? That’s because laughter is like a superhero that fights against stress. When we laugh, our bodies chill out, and stress hormones (the things that make us feel worried) take a break. It strengthens our Immune System: It is like a superhero for our immune system. It helps our bodies make more immune cells, the ones that keep us healthy. So, by laughing, we’re not just having fun; we’re also making our bodies stronger! Research also proves that 10 to 15 minutes of daily laughing burns 10 to 40 calories. It helps us Handle Tough Times: Think about a time when you found something funny during a not-so-great moment. It’s like a little light in the darkness, right? Humor is like a special tool that helps us handle tough situations. When we find something funny in a challenging moment, it’s like our minds take a break from feeling upset. Humor is like a friend that helps us see things differently. Instead of feeling really serious, we can laugh a little and feel a bit better. So, next time you’re going through a tough time, try finding something funny—it might just make things a bit easier to handle! It brings People Together: Have you ever noticed how laughter brings people together? When we laugh with others, it’s like we’re sharing a special secret. It helps us feel close to the people around us. It’s not just about the laugh we have in the moment; it’s also about how it helps us make good friends. When we share a laugh, it’s like we’re saying, “We’re in this together!” Laughter makes our friendships stronger and helps us feel like we belong. In the end, laughter is like a magical song that makes us feel happy and healthy. It’s not just a sound we make when something is funny; it’s a special way we connect with others and ourselves. So, next time you hear laughter, join in! Whether it’s a big belly laugh or a tiny giggle, know that you’re not just having fun—you’re also giving your mind and heart a little gift. In the song of life, let laughter be the tune that makes your days brighter and your heart lighter!

Conquer Insomnia: 6 Effective Strategies for Restful Sleep

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Conquer Insomnia

According to Meriam Webster dictionary, Insomnia is prolonged and usually abnormal inability to get enough sleep especially due to trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. Insomnia, often fueled by stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges, robs us of the precious sleep we need. Unhealthy habits, such as excessive screen time and poor eating choices, can exacerbate the problem. Here are six proven ways to combat insomnia and welcome restful nights. 1. Limit Screen Time Exposure to blue light from devices disrupts sleep. Combat insomnia by setting a technology curfew before bedtime to improve sleep quality. 2. Mind Your Late-night Diet Avoid Heavy Foods: Heavy meals before bed can cause discomfort, hindering sleep. Opt for lighter evening meals to promote restfulness. Say No to Sugary Snacks: Steer clear of sugary treats like cakes, sweets, and coffee before bedtime. These can trigger sugar rushes, leading to insomnia. 3. Bedtime Elixirs Sip Warm Milk: Calm your nerves with a comforting glass of warm milk before bedtime, aiding in a peaceful night’s sleep. Bananas for Stress Reduction: Combat stress and anxiety, the culprits of insomnia, by adding bananas into your evening routine. Or you can have both banana and milk and sleep like a baby.  4. Embrace White Noise: Introduce soothing white noise, such as radio static or steady water sounds, to distract and relax your mind. Numerous apps and online resources offer these calming sounds. 5. Comfort is Key Ensure your bed and pillow provide comfort. Uncomfortable bedding can contribute to sleep disturbances, so invest in a cozy sleep environment. 6. Pray for Peaceful Sleep Drawing inspiration from Psalm 127:2, “…For so he giveth his beloved sleep.”consider incorporating prayer into your bedtime routine. Seeking solace in spiritual practices can provide a sense of tranquility. Conclusion: Prolonged insomnia can lead to constant daytime fatigue, irritability, depression, problems involving concentration/memory and so on. Being intentional about your habits is crucial in overcoming insomnia. Manage your diet, screen time, and bedtime routine with purpose, bidding farewell to insomnia and welcoming rejuvenating sleep. Remember, conquering insomnia is a gradual process, so be patient and consistent in your efforts for lasting results.

6 Easy Tips to Ease the Daunting Move from Home to Hostel

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6 Easy Tips to Ease the Daunting Move from Home to Hostel

For many students, the move from home to hostel can be a daunting exercise. Few days ago, I embarked on this transition, and I would say of all the transitions I’ve ever made, this seemed to be the most difficult one. Perhaps, because I did not plan ahead, and was juggling other assignments together with this movement, it was very strenuous. If not for the timely intervention of a Good Samaritan in my hostel who assisted me in carrying my belongings, I would most likely have fainted from carrying heavy loads. From my recent experience, this essay came into light to explore easy tips to make this daunting move from home to hostel less overwhelming. 1. Early Preparation: Laying the Solid Foundation for Success One thing I’ve observed is that once you prepare ahead for something, you are most likely going to be successful in it. My own initial failure was that I was unable to prepare the night before because there was power failure in my area which is not an excuse because I could have done it when the day was still bright. My first tip when you plan to move from home to hostel is that you begin by creating a checklist that outlines the tasks you need to complete before, during, and after the move. This could include sorting and packing your belongings, and preparing necessary documents. 2. Streamline Belongings: Travel Light, Live Light This point is very crucial to your movement. Hostel rooms often come with limited space, making it important that you reduce the number of things you carry. Note for the ladies: “you are not yet moving into your husband’s house.” Ensure that you carry only the things that you would need while in school. I’ve been a victim of carrying excess loads that will just remain fallow in my box until the end of the session. It would not be useful for me throughout the time that I’m in the hostel until I return home. Select only the essential items that would make you comfortable in school. Donate or store the other items that won’t be immediately necessary, so that your new living space can be organized and clutter-free. 3. Efficient Packing: The Art of Organization While packing, put similar items together in a box to make unpacking at the hostel more straightforward. If you are likely to forget where you place your items, label your boxes clearly. This not only eases the unpacking process but also helps you keep track of your belongings in the hustle and bustle of hostel life. 4. Building Connections: Creating a Support System Building connections with roommates and neighbors is an essential aspect of hostel life. Reach out to your new roommates, introduce yourself, and establish open communication. Building a positive rapport with those around you fosters a supportive living environment. Looking for ways to be comfortable with your roommates? You can check these tips on how to sail through the hostel life smoothly. 5. Essentials Kit: Your Comfort Corner Ensure that you pack an essentials kit containing items that you’ll need right away. You might be exhausted while moving your belongings around, and would not have the energy to begin to unpack all the loads you’ve taken to the hostel, this is where the essentials kit is needed. This can include toiletries, bed lines, study materials, and any comfort items. Having these essentials readily available will make the initial days in the hostel more comfortable and stress-free. 6. Positive Mindset: Embracing the Change Finally, approach the transition with a positive mindset. Moving to the hostel is not just a physical change; it’s an opportunity for personal growth and independence. Focus on the opportunities for personal growth and independence that hostel brings. Establish a routine that allows for freedom and responsibility. Conclusion The move from home to hostel may seem daunting, but with these easy tips and a proactive mindset, it can be transformed into a less stressful and more manageable experience. You can easily embark on this new chapter of your academic journey with confidence, creating a living space that reflects both comfort and independence.

Gaming: Balancing the Joys and Challenges

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The Impact of Gaming: Balancing the Joys and Challenges

Gaming has become an integral part of modern culture, providing entertainment, social interaction, and even career opportunities. While gaming offers numerous benefits, It is essential to explore both the positive, and potential negative effects it can have on individuals and society. Positive Aspects of Gaming: Gaming fosters creativity, problem-solving skills, and strategic thinking. Many games encourage teamwork and collaboration, promoting social skills and communication. Additionally, the gaming industry has become a significant economic force, creating jobs, and driving technological advancements. Cognitive Benefits: Research suggests that gaming can enhance cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and spatial reasoning. Certain games challenge the mind, providing a mental workout that may have positive effects on cognitive abilities. Social Connections: Online gaming platforms enable individuals to connect with others globally. Gaming communities provide a sense of belonging and camaraderie, breaking down geographical barriers and fostering friendships. Virtual worlds can become spaces for social interaction and support. Potential Risks and Challenges: Excessive gaming, however, can lead to negative consequences. It may contribute to sedentary lifestyles, sleep disturbances, and, in extreme cases, addiction. It is crucial to strike a balance and be aware of potential risks associated with prolonged gaming sessions. Gaming Addiction: Gaming addiction, recognized as a mental health disorder by some health organizations, involves persistent, and excessive gaming that interferes with daily life. Understanding the signs and symptoms is crucial for early intervention and support. Parental Guidance and Regulation: Parents play a crucial role in monitoring and guiding their children’s gaming habits. Establishing reasonable time limits, encouraging a variety of activities, and fostering open communication can help maintain a healthy balance. Educational Opportunities: Some games are designed to be educational, teaching valuable skills in science, mathematics, and problem-solving. Exploring these educational opportunities within that gaming realm can contribute positively to learning experiences. Read Also: Playing Smart: How to Make the Best Use of Social Media for Business Opportunities Conclusion Gaming is a multifaceted phenomenon with both positive and negative aspects. Embracing the benefits of gaming while being mindful of potential risks is essential for individuals, parents, and society at large. By fostering responsible gaming habits, encouraging a diverse range of activities, and staying vigilant to signs of excessive gaming, we can harness the positive potential of gaming while mitigating its challenges. Striking a balance is key to ensuring that gaming remains a source of joy, learning, and connection for individuals of all ages.

Healthy Ways of Burning Fat in the Body (Part 2)

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Healthy Ways of Burning Fat in the Body (Part 2)

As promised earlier to deliver a subsequent article, here it is! I know you are excited to know what this article holds, and its details. The Part 1 of my article gave a concise understanding of healthy activities to do which helps with burning fat in the body. This (Part 2) will conclude the article, and highlights all necessary factors. In my previous article, I stated some ways and gave an introduction which will not be needed in this article. They are numerous ways to burning fat, which include: Stress Management: Chronic stress can contribute to weight gain. Try practicing stress reducing activities like yoga, deep breathing, and meditation. Limit Alcohol Intake: Chronic Alcohol intake can impact the body’s ability to burn fat, and contribute to weight gain. Alcohol is high in calories, and can hinder fat loss. If you must drink, do so in moderation. Increase NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis): Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (NEAT) refers to the energy expended for activities that are not considered formal exercise. It encompasses the calories burned during daily activities, such as walking, standing instead of sitting, fidgeting, and even activities like gardening or household chores. Understanding and optimizing NEAT is important for overall health and weight management. Hydrate with Water: Drinking enough water is crucial to human health, and can help control appetite. Most times, thirst is mistaken for hunger. Limit Sugar Intake: Minimize you sugar intake, this includes sugary foods, and beverages. High consumption leads to fat accumulation. Stay Consistent & Patient: Consistency and Patience are key virtues while on a healthy journey. Adopt healthy habits, and avoid drastic measures that promise rapid results, because they are often unhealthy, and difficult to maintain. Accountability & Support: Lastly, I encourage you to share your goals with family members, friends, and consider a fitness or nutrition professional. Honestly, having great cheerleaders, and support can help you stay accountable, and motivated. Read Also: Healthy Ways of Burning Fat in the Body (Part 1) Conclusion Remember that individual responses to diet, and exercise can vary, and it is essential to find a best approach that works for you. More so, focus on overall health and well-being rather than solely on the number on the scale.  If you have specific health concerns or conditions, it is advisable to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance.