Five Sources of Workplace Violence and How To Prepare For Its Prevention and Response

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Five Sources of Workplace Violence and How To Prepare For It

Workplace violence is an inevitable security risk which your organization should get ready to deal with. Having emergency preparedness plan in place will provide formidable leverage for your business risk and resilience team. Workplace violence is any act of verbal, physical or emotional assault and harassment carried out against a victim within the confines of a workplace. It may include abuse and shout, hitting, beating, or attack, bullying and intimidation, and sexual harassment. Here are five key questions to get your team started for this security threat. Does your organization believe workplace violence poses a security risk to be taken seriously? Does your organization have response plan in place for workplace violence? How confident is your organization in dealing with workplace violence? What kind of workplace violence have been identified to be common to your industry? What kind of workplace violence has your organization experienced in the past five years? Providing answers to above questions should not be done loosely. It requires thoughtful insight which must consider size, assets, industry, complexity, experience, capabilities and resilience of the organization. Note also, factors that could possibly motivate persons to lunch acts of violence in workplace vary; however, it may include frustration, revenge, crime, rejection, and mental instability. Here is highlight and description of five sources of workplace violence to prepare for: Criminal intent: violence of this nature oftentimes originates from an external criminal who aims to obtain by force from a target inside the workplace. This may result to injury or fatality, and damage to assets. Customer based: is when a customer aggressively acts or reacts to a situation connected to the business transaction in the workplace. Such aggression may target a worker, a fellow customer or others. For instance, when a customer assaults an employee because their expectations are not met. Worker based: violence occurs when employee attacks, assault or harasses a customer, a fellow employee, the employer or others in the workplace. For example, a worker punches a fellow worker who has offended him/her beyond breaking point or attacks a superior who has refused to recommend a promotion or pay rise. Domestic based: occurs when a relative of a worker, employer, customer or others traces them to a workplace and carries attack. For instance, a jilted or rejected lover who visits and attacks a partner in the workplace.   Ideological based: violence is a situation where an adherent of a particular belief or faith lunches attack in workplace perceived to provide or promote a service that offends such faith. For instance, a religious fanatic who carries out assault on workers or customers in a brothel and disrupt its business activities. How to prepare for inevitable workplace violence: Prepare with PPT – activate emergency response plan through people, process and technology. This requires having in place a capable security team who can follow a process backed by technology to deter, detect and promptly respond to acts of violence in the organization. Build strong security culture – strong security culture demands strong tone from the top. When an organization does not tolerate permissive behavior, it will send message that support strong security culture. In such organization, policies and standards are enforced regardless of whether an act is considered a serious one or not. Enforce background check – background check gives insight to past behaviors and profile of a candidate. It also, provides a red flag of what such person can do if granted access to join organization. For instance, someone who has history of rape in the pass will likely attempt sexual harassment in a workplace. Provide workplace violence awareness – training employees to recognize signs and safety risks associated with workplace violence and encourage them to speak up against it is a good prevention method. For example, Human Resources unit should have a dedicated channel for people to freely and fearlessly report acts of violence. Have onsite security visibility – having security personnel physically seen in a business premises promotes sense of safety, deters some would-be attackers from attempting to attack and generally promotes peace and security. Promote data driven security operation – when a security team is being guided by a verifiable data; trends and patterns can be used for planning, execution and insightful delivery.  Data driven security operation can show connection between violence and a particular season e.g. weekend, evening, end of month, festive period, etc. Integrate CCTV surveillance to security visibility – CCTV camera have strong deterrent effect on occupants of its space. The system serves to caution people to be law abiding or make attempt and get caught. Encourage open communication – “see something, say something” is a safety and security slogan that must be encouraged amongst workforce. Sometimes a victim of covert workplace violence may not have the courage to speak up, especially if the avenue for such communication is not explicitly provided. Train your team for threat identification – employees and others in the workplace should be trained to easily recognize threats of workplace violence and report same without fear or inhibition. Deploy weapon detection technology – deploying weapon detection devices at company’s main access points will prevent entrance of lite weapons into the premises. With this in place, the risks of lethal attacks will be very low. Workplace violence can originate from five main sources. However, it preventable through application of some security measures outline above. ALSO READ 10 Ways To Prevent Workplace Violence

Friendship Lost and Lessons Learned Too Late

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Friendship Lost and Lessons Learned Too Late

Clutching my bouquet of roses with trembling fingers, I stood at the edge of Ozoemena’s grave, hemmed in by a sea of mourners. Familiar faces of coursemates blurred with strangers, all united in grief for a man whose friendship I had carelessly overlooked. The weight of the flowers in my hands felt like a mockery of the connection I had failed to nurture in life, now painfully clear in death’s unforgiving light. Ozoemena. A guy I disliked because of hair. He had too much hair. Boy would cut his hair and have it growing the next minute; on his head, face, hands and legs. I saw it as an insult to my non-growing hair, how could a guy be so graced? Something a woman should have and right there my dislike for him found a base so I nicknamed him in Igbo Ozo ntutu — chief of hair, removing the last part of his name. But here I am now with flowers, one I didn’t give when he was alive but one I could afford to give at his death. I thought about the many times he had been nice, the many times he had gone out of his way to help people and the many times he had smiled. “You better be nice to me,” he would always say to me, “now that you can still see me.” He wanted to leave for Canada after our degree exams so he would run his master’s program and whenever he said that to me, I would frown and reply, “They won’t give you a visa!” I also wish I never told him in Year 1 that he was a lab experiment, “I bet you were created in a Petri dish!” I said out of anger when he pulled my cap in public revealing my short scattered hair. It was supposed to be a playful stunt but it got me annoyed. I should not have said those words to him. I should have been a little kind towards him. I should not have left him behind, sleeping that night we all went to read in school. I should have woken him up as I left at dawn but I did not and he told me it was the students who came later by 9 am for their lecture that woke him up. He was so embarrassed. I had simply replied, “What kind of sleep is that?” Without any form of pity. Ozoemena was a good man, a great class representative to us, and he ensured that we were happy. He saved us countless times from the hands of our lecturers and would sometimes take the blame. We became quite close in our final year, I don’t know but we seemed to sit together more often, were in the same group for assignments and ultimately had the same project supervisor. There he started his joke, “Mary, the mother of Jesus, pray for me so I won’t fail my degree exams.” “This Mary lives in Nigeria and she’s Igbo and not Jewish,” I would reply. “It’s the same thing, just pray!” He would tell me. On the last day of the exams, he was not present in my hall and I assumed he was in the second hall. Others in the second half assumed he was in our hall until we finished the paper and discovered he did not come to school at all. The HOD called us together and after giving a one-week ultimatum to submit four copies of our finished project, he told us about Ozoemena and that he was dying at the hospital. Dying? What? I could have sworn he was okay, I mean, he comes to class every day, makes me laugh and buys me food on several occasions, how could he be battling with his liver all this while? His last days were spent in the hospital. Dying yet laughing and trying to make a joke out of everything. “How much does this wheelchair cost? I’d take it home and sell it, they gave it to me but we have to pay for it, you know,” He told one day. I blamed the numerous drugs they were giving him, it seemed to weaken him and make him say all manner of things like a little child. I wanted to tell him to rest and stop talking but he preferred I listened to him and so he went on and on. “Promise me, you won’t die,” I asked him on his last night in the hospital. He smirked and closed his eyes. I trusted that smile and I trusted even the way he closed his eyes. That was a sign. A yes that he would survive. I had left reasoning behind and became a seeker of signs. “What will you do for me if I do not die?” He asked. “I’ll join you to sell this wheelchair to the highest bidder.” He laughed now, a weak laugh. We stood up to sing yet another hymn in church and that was when I noticed I had been crying. It didn’t feel like it though, it felt like I wasn’t there and I was caught in between the two emotions, weeping and being dry-eyed. Ozoemena died in the early hours of the next day. I was at the business centre binding my project work when I received the text from the assistant class rep – “He has gone to be with the Lord.” Rage and hate suddenly filled my spirit for everyone: for the girl at the business centre for not having my complete change, making me stand to wait for her to go and look for it; for the bike man who drove me to the teaching hospital and for driving so slowly, for even the nurse I met on duty with her pink lipstick. I also hated the colour pink at that moment. I hated the fact that I was wailing loudly when I saw his parents and that … Read more

Oral Health: A Guide to Oral Hygiene

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Oral Health: A Guide to Oral Hygiene  Maintaining good oral health is very important for an overall wellbeing of a person. A lot of times, people tend to overlook the importance of oral hygiene, ignorant of the fact that poor oral hygiene can lead to various oral conditions and even systemic disease. The oral cavity(mouth) is a portal of entry into the body and therefore, proper care is crucial. This article will provide practical guide to ensure optimal oral hygiene and maintain oral health. What is Oral health and hygiene? A state by which the oral cavity is completely free from disorders or diseases that can impact its function is referred to as Oral health. Oral health includes the health of the teeth, gums, cavities and surrounding tissues in the oral cavity. Oral health can be achieved by proper Oral hygiene. Oral hygiene refers to practices that are ensured to maintain oral health. These practices have to be carried out daily, and it’s in fact a long term commitment. Oral hygiene practices such as brushing twice daily, flossing, use of mouthwash etc. can help achieve a healthy oral cavity. Here are some healthy hygiene tips to improve your oral health;   Regular Teeth Brushing Brushing your teeth regularly is very important for achieving oral health. Brushing twice a day is advised- in the morning before eating and at night before going to bed. This practice will help remove dirt, bacteria and food particles from your teeth to help prevent tooth decay and diseases. The use of soft toothbrush and a fluoride toothpaste is highly recommended. And hard toothbrush can affect or injure your gums. To ensure proper brushing, the entire surface of our teeth should be brushed, and this should be for at least 2 minutes.   2. Dental Flossing Proper oral hygiene also involves dental flossing as it is also required to achieve oral health. Flossing helps to remove dirt, bacteria or food particles that are stuck in between your teeth or underneath your gums. For proper flossing to be done, you have to gently guide the floss in between your teeth and underneath your gums to prevent injury to your teeth and avoid bleeding. Flossing your teeth daily helps prevent bad breath, tooth loss and gum diseases.   3. Rinsing with Mouthwash Mouthwash is used for oral hygiene as it helps to kill bacteria in the mouth, prevents bad breath and also, remove plaques. Mouthwash was not made to replace tooth brushing but it is like a supplement for oral hygiene maintenance. Mouthwash with fluoride are highly recommended for use. To use a mouthwash, pour into the mouth, and let it stay for 60 seconds before spitting it out, and do not swallow it!   4. Proper tongue cleaning Tongue cleaning is an important part of oral hygiene. The tongue is a muscular part of the oral cavity and therefore can accumulate dirt/debris. A tongue scraper or toothbrush can be used to clean the tongue regularly, and this should be done twice daily to prevent bath breath, infections or decay of the tooth.   5. Regular Dental check-up Visiting your dentist is strongly advised. A regular Dental check-up is important for thorough examination of your teeth, gums and entire oral cavity. Oral advice and treatments can also be carried out. This check-up can be done twice a year.   6. Healthy eating habits Eating healthy can also promote good oral health. A well balanced diet supports healthy teeth, gums and an overall oral health. Food such as fruits, vegetables, milk, protein and even water to stay hydrated, should be incorporated. Sugary and acidic food should be limited to prevent tooth decay. The key to having a healthy oral cavity lies in good oral hygiene practices. Brushing, flossing, use of mouthwash, tongue washing, dental check-ups and eating healthy can help you achieve an overall oral health. A daily practice of the tips mentioned above will ensure you a lifetime of strong teeth and healthy gums. Also Read: Wearable Devices: The Impact On Personal Health

When Born Again Beliefs Collide With Mental Health Issues

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When Born Again Beliefs Collide With Mental Health Issues

As a counselling psychologist, I’ve learned to read between the lines, to hear the unspoken in a trembling voice or a hesitant pause. Yet, the complexity of faith-based denial especially from those who claim they are born again never ceases to amaze me. I’ve witnessed countless struggles but nothing could have prepared me for the case that was about to walk through my door—I was expecting the young woman who put a call across a few days back confirming her appointment and asking if her doctor transferred her case to me or if it was her nurse. It was a bit confusing. Why bother about who sent in her file? I confirmed it was her doctor and she heaved a sigh of relief over the phone. “I’ll be there first thing on Monday morning, that nurse is such a gossip. Thank God she knows nothing of this,” she said, a bit frantic, sounding almost like she couldn’t wait to see me already and for me to perform my miracle on her. I was no miracle worker, just a counselling psychologist who started practising about two years ago and who managed to pull much weight in the field. My booking rates increased just as my clients did to the extent that I started rejecting some calls and told my assistant not to take some bookings. This woman should have been among those I would normally reject but the referral came from the state hospital and I couldn’t say no to Dr. Gbenga. He was my schoolmate from the University. I found myself thinking so much about her, turning her story in my head countless times and even trying to place her voice over the phone and the story on her file. Her name is Iniobong, 32 years old, married with a 2-year-old son. Her life and marriage were perfect until she discovered her husband carried out a vasectomy on himself without telling her, just after their son turned two. Their only child. And they agreed to have three children. Monday came; she didn’t even wait for me to let her in before opening my office door a little, shoving her head in and asking if she was disturbing. “Oh no, come in please, you must be Iniobong?” “Yes,” She said, smiling. She made herself comfortable on the chair in front of me and faced me. We exchanged pleasantries, she commented that she was glad I was a woman and that she could relate with me better, a man may not know how she feels. Then she told her story. She got married to her husband and they were so in love. They agreed to do everything together and never kept secrets from one another until she discovered the hospital test papers that he signed agreeing to carry out a vasectomy operation. “Why would he do that? Why? We just had our first child and he decided to cut his sperm tube off? Why?” Iniobong was getting apprehensive as she talked. I wanted to tell her to calm down but it was not the time, she needed to let off the steam so I kept quiet while I took down my notes. “He loves me, at least he said he does and I believe him. This is a Christian and a church worker. Why should he choose to do that without informing me? I have rights over his body as the Bible commands, he has no right to do that!” She continued. “I thought one has to agree and sign with their partner in the hospital before such operations are done?” I asked. “That’s it, he took another lady that posed as his wife and they teamed up to stop me from having more children.” Iniobong broke down in tears. I watched as she desperately tried to clean off her tears and pull herself together. I wasn’t going to stop her from crying, whatever emotion she had in there needed to be unlocked. “Can I speak with your husband?” I asked her after a few seconds. The next time she visited, she came with Darey, her husband and Nifemi, their son. I only needed her husband but it was fine anyway. Then he told me his side of the story. He loved his wife, she was everything good he had prayed for and he showered her with all his care and attention. His world shattered when they had their son. Iniobong changed, she spent more time with Nifemi, fussing over him so much. She expelled him from their bedroom and Nifemi took over his space on their bed. Her life practically evolved around their son so much that she neglected him and made him look so non-existent. If one baby could do this, he decided not to have any more. He wanted his wife back so he agreed to take the operation, it wouldn’t stop him from making love to her, she just wouldn’t get pregnant again. Iniobong cried as he talked while Nifemi, oblivious of whatever his parents were going through, took to the magazines on the low stool, flipping through the pages as if he knew what was there. I looked at Darey, handsome and smart looking and I looked at Iniobong, young and attractive. Attractive enough to make her husband carry out such a stupid decision. I asked him other questions which he answered and I confirmed his intense fear of abandonment, rapid change in self-identity, loss of contact with reality which lasts for a few minutes sometimes, his ongoing feeling of emptiness, inappropriate feelings of anger and bitterness, mood swings and his impulsive behaviour to carrying out a vasectomy on himself because of his imagined rejection from his wife. I called Dr. Gbenga after they left. “I referred them back to you, please see to Iniobong’s husband. He is suffering from a borderline personality disorder.” “Are you sure? The man is born again,” Dr. Gbenga said. “Same thing he said to me when I told him what … Read more

Your Email Security Best Practices

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Your email security best practices

Email has become a significant part of modern-day digital relationships. You can hardly have online presence without a functional email address. Most digital interactions in one way or the other would require sign-in, sign-up, or both using email address. For instance, handheld mobile device like iPhone or android cannot function without optimizing it through email sign-in. What this means is that if you do not have working email address, you cannot fully access and activate the capabilities of these mobile devices. Our email; whether private or professional one deserves special security attention. Hackers knew the importance of this tool as introduced above, hence it has become their main route to scout for unsuspecting or ignorant online users from whom confidential private information is generated for criminal acts. For instance; through emails these hackers deploy phishing, spoofing, whaling, and baiting as popular methods to gather private information from online users. having said this, note your email can be safely used when you are conscious of the presence of cybercriminals who are targeting victims in various ways through it. Make effort to protect your emails by following best security practices. See below list and brief description of some best practices for your email security. Use strong password: for password to be considered strong, it must have minimum of eight letters. These letter must contain alphanumeric characters like abc123&*@. Strong password is a good security practice that will keep your email protected from cybercriminals who may attempt to have unauthorized access to such it with intent to steal confidential information. Keep your password confidential: your password is part of your private information, as such it should never be disclosed to anyone. protect and keep it confidential. Review and update password periodically: to use one password too long will make your email vulnerable and expose it to avoidable security risk. Change and update your password from time to time. Active two-factor authentication: this is an electronic access authentication method whereby a user will be asked to present two or more levels of private information as proof of identity and ownership before access is granted to an application. Activating two-factor-authentication (2FA) will further protect your email from unauthorized access by criminals. Avoid opening strange links: online shared links received from unexpected and unknown sources should first be seen and treated as malware. Cyber space is full of malicious files, codes, applications and software. These malwares are oftentimes shared to unsuspecting and ignorant online users as links. To protect your email; open only links received from known and trusted source, and delete the ones from unknown sources. Avoid public wifi network: free public wifi is a potent avenue for security attack. Cyber criminals sometimes provide and use it to monitor and generate confidential information from unsuspecting and ignorant users. To play safe and protect your information requires you should avoid it. Pause and check before you click: the human error of unconscious surfing internet is what hackers take advantage of to share malwares.  It is a good security practice not to haste to click on anything, e.g., pop-ups, links, download, etc. Always stop, check, and verify what it is before you decide. Avoid download from strange source: it is a good security practice to avoid random online downloads. Files shared from unexpected and strange sources should be seen and treated as malware. Download files from trusted source. Avoid strange sign-in or sign-up: most online transactions would require you to sign in or sign up. In either case, use of email is a precondition. When this request come from unexpected and strange source, it should be avoided. Update system software periodically: to keep a system (computer or mobile device) safe, its software and applications need to be updated from time to time. Such updates can enhance its security capability to protect against malwares and other security threats. Review and update security and privacy setting: your email contains privacy and security setting where it is required that updates should be carried out periodically. It is a good security practice to routinely check it and activate necessary updates. Email has become a very important part of our digital lives. It has also become prime target for cyber criminals. To use it safely requires conscious security practices. ALSO READ: Cybersecurity Threat Of Social Engineering

Domains Of Security And How They Impact Lives

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Security appears to be synonymously connected to almost every aspect of human existence. Sociologically; society, in all ages has been functioning through contribution of interdependent human interactive silos. Every arears of human interactions although has exclusive social identity, is however, inherently designed to be mutually inclusive of others. To maintain effective functionality, such endeavor must not be threatened by any variable. Whenever any aspect of human interaction is faced with existential threat, it becomes a security concern to the society. Today’s world is increasingly becoming insecure; filled with threats from many fronts. Failed state and political instability, protracted crises and violent conflicts, persistent poverty, natural disasters, epidemics and pandemics, economic meltdown, etc. have imposed hardships on people and decrease chances for peace and stability. The above scenario is challenging to contemporary society; and it posses multiple forms of threats that overlap to create a complex domain of safety concern. Security in the context of this piece refers to a state of freedom from all threats. The concept of threat points to any person, group of persons; and any activity carried out by human, or act any of nature, etc. that has potential to disrupt or terminate the functionality of a subsystem. This “freedom from threats” is expected to translate to efficiency, peace, harmony, growth, development, increase/abundance, progress, advancement, fulfillment, happiness, joy, etc. See below, areas of human endeavor where perception of threat is oftentimes a significant source of concern to society. Human security: this aspect is concern with overall safety and security of people. United Nations refers to it as freedom from want, fear and to live a life of dignity. Anything that threatens dignity of a people is principally robbing such a group their safety. Any society deprived of human security will stagnate and be very far from peace and stability. Job security: this area deals with one’s source of livelihood and the chances that it will remain gainfully active for a reasonably long period without threat. Where this longevity is perceived to be uncertain, fear of insecurity would become the order. Food security: this aspect refers to when all people, at all times have unhindered access to sufficiently safe and nutritious foods that meet their daily needs. Any situation that disrupts food value chain is serious threats to life. Cultural security: this aspect deals with respect and regard for traditions and cultural values, and norms that are unique to a given people in a society. Health security: refers to control measures and activities required to be in place in a society to keep public health system functioning well to guarantee a healthy people. Where there is loss of confidence in public health; such a place is under threat of failed health system. Wealth security: this exists when the treasured possessions of a people are free from threats. Such possession may include technologies, buildings, money, innovations, and other assets. Financial security: this areas refers to freedom from monetary worries and debts, ability to comfortably meet all financial obligations, and availability of enough money for safekeeping. That is a condition of having stable income especially from two or more legitimate sources. Economic security: this domain points to when a society has stable, interrupted and trusted mode of wealth creation and distribution. In order words; it means a system that promotes well-regulated and unhindered flow of value creations, commercial transactions, productions, positive market forces and exchange of values. Information security: in this information age; this aspect focuses on activities centered on keeping information technology and other related infrastructure free from threats. Environmental security: refers to healthy practices of a community that assist to keep the environment free from man-made hazards, and generally promotes sustainable development. These domains highlighted above, and others not mentioned are significant to continue survival of contemporary society. Whenever they are threatened by either activity of human or by natural forces, the impacts can affect society in negative ways. ALSO READ: Determined Attacker – The Secret Destroyer

How Love Turn

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How love turns

I still get this question to date, “How did I fall in love?” I still remember the day I met Matthew like it was yesterday. I was unpacking boxes in my new apartment, trying to make sense of the chaos around me. The doorbell rang, and I wiped the sweat from my forehead before making my way to the door. I wasn’t expecting anyone so soon. I opened it to find a charming smile and warm eyes. It was strange how my heart responded to his appearance. “Hey!” “Hey, I’m Matthew,” he said, extending his hand. “Welcome to the building.” I shook his hand, feeling a spark of sweetness. “Thanks, I’m Richard. Nice to meet you.” I admitted within me that he had the best soft hands in the whole world. A few days later, we met each other at the bus stop, waiting for the bus. We sat next to each other and that was when it all began. As we chatted, I couldn’t help but notice the way his eyes crinkled at the corners when he laughed. We talked about everything from our jobs to our favorite TV shows. I found myself looking forward to our subsequent conversations. ALSO READ: Religion creates no boundaries in love It wasn’t awkward. I felt good. I really wanted to have more discussions with him. I could shake off the feelings that I had for him. They were sexual feelings and I hoped he felt the same way. One evening, Matthew invited me to a party. “Hey, Richard, I want to come with me to Alex’s party tonight?” he asked, knocking on my door. I did not hesitate. I agreed, and we spent the evening dancing and laughing together. As we talked, I realized I was having more fun than I’d had in weeks. Matthew was easy to talk to, and I found myself opening up to him in ways I never thought possible. As the night wore on, we found ourselves lost in conversation. Matthew told me about his passion for photography, and I shared my love of writing. It was like we’d known each other for years. We blended and the moments were golden. I will forever cherish them. Then, suddenly, he locked his eyes with mine. I melted in the seat. My heart throbbed, I felt it At one point, Matthew turned to me and said, “Richard, can I tell you something?” I nodded, feeling a sense of anticipation. “Yeah, come on.” He answered giving him a smile. “I think I might have feelings for you,” he said, his voice low and serious. My heart skipped a beat. I looked into his eyes and saw something there that I hadn’t seen before; a yearning and a desire. “Matthew, I have feelings for you too,” I said my voice barely above a whisper. Richard’s face lit up with a smile, and he took my hand. We sat there for a moment, looking into each other’s eyes. Then, he came closer, tilting his head, and went straight for my waiting lips. We kissed. It was mutual and we loved it. What was strange was that I thought Matthew was straight. He had a girlfriend, one he had told me about. “I want to be real to myself and to every other person out there.” He responded when I asked about Emmie, his alleged girlfriend. As the days turned into weeks, our relationship blossomed. We explored the city together, holding hands and laughing. We tried new restaurants, visited museums, and even took a weekend trip to the beach. One evening, as we sat on the couch watching the sunset, Matthew turned to me and said, “I’m so glad we met, Richard.” I smiled, feeling grateful. “Me too, Matthew. I never thought I’d find someone like you. I don’t deserve you.” His smile was contagious and I could never have enough of it. I drew him closer and planted a kiss on his lips and as I looked into his eyes, I knew that I had found my forever love. We talked long into the night, sharing our hopes and dreams. We laughed and joked. As the night drew to a close, Matthew leaned in and kissed me. It was a soft, gentle kiss, but it sent shivers down my spine. “I love you, Richard,” he whispered. “I love you too, Matthew,” I replied, my heart full of joy. And as we hugged each other tightly, I knew that I had found my soulmate. How love turns! I did not know it could be better with the same gender.

Four Impacts of Indoor Plants and Flowers On Mental And Emotional Well-being

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Four Impacts of Indoor Plants and Flowers on Mental and Emotional Well being

This article outlines the various impacts of indoor plants and flowers on our mental and emotional well-being. In today’s fast-paced world, finding ways to nurture our mental and emotional well-being has become more important than ever. One simple and effective way to do this is by incorporating indoor plants and flowers into our living spaces. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, indoor greenery offers a host of psychological and emotional benefits, making it more than just home décor. Studies have shown that the presence of plants and flowers can help reduce stress, boost mood, and create a more serene and peaceful environment. Stress Reduction and Relaxation: One of the most immediate benefits of having indoor plants is their ability to reduce stress levels. Numerous studies have found that being around plants, or simply seeing them in your space, can lower cortisol, the hormone associated with stress. This natural reduction in stress can lead to a more relaxed and calm state of mind, especially in environments where tension tends to build, such as busy offices or homes with high activity levels. Also, the act of caring for plants has therapeutic effects. Watering, pruning, and tending to them encourages mindfulness, a practice that is known to reduce anxiety and help people stay focused on the present moment. Mood Enhancement: Beyond just reducing stress, indoor plants can boost your mood. The vibrant colours and fresh scents of flowers, in particular, are known to evoke positive emotions and lift spirits. Research has shown that people who live in environments with plants, report feeling happier and more content, often with higher energy levels and reduced feelings of depression. Flowers, especially bright ones like sunflowers, tulips, and daisies, are linked to feelings of joy and happiness. Their natural beauty brings a sense of vitality to any space, creating an atmosphere of warmth and positivity. Even small potted plants, such as succulents or ferns, can evoke a feeling of well-being by improving the overall ambience of a room. Improving Focus and Productivity: For those who work from home or spend a lot of time in their study or office, indoor plants can also enhance focus and productivity. Studies have found that people who work in spaces with plants tend to be more productive, have higher levels of concentration, and are less likely to feel fatigued throughout the day. The presence of greenery can improve cognitive performance by promoting a sense of calm and reducing mental clutter. The improved air quality that plants provide, by filtering toxins and releasing oxygen, also contributes to a healthier work environment, reducing headaches and boosting overall well-being. Creating a Serene and Soothing Environment: Indoor plants are excellent at creating a serene atmosphere, which is essential for emotional well-being. Living in a space filled with greenery can mimic the calming effects of nature, helping to create a sanctuary within your home. This is especially beneficial for those who live in urban environments where access to nature may be limited. They introduce calming scents that promote relaxation and improve sleep. These plants release soothing aromas used to reduce anxiety and improve mood. Additionally, plants can create a sense of life and movement in a room, which can counteract feelings of loneliness or isolation, creating a connection with nature that promotes emotional well-being. In conclusion, Indoor plants and flowers have the ability to positively impact our mental and emotional well-being. From reducing stress to enhancing mood and creating a calm atmosphere, their presence in our living spaces provides more than just visual appeal. By incorporating plants into your home, you’re not only beautifying your space but also investing in your mental and emotional health.   Also read: 5 Ways to Overcome Stress and Reclaim Your Well-Being

5 Effects Of Car Emissions On Our Lives And Environment

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5 Effects of Car Emissions on Our Lives and Environment

This article focuses on the effects of car emissions on our lives and environment . In today’s world, cars are a vital part of our lives, getting us, to different places. But every time we get in our vehicles, we contribute to a growing environmental problem, car emissions. The gases released from cars may seem invisible, but they have very real and long-lasting effects on the ours and environment. The following are some of these emissions that affects the environment. Acid Rain: This is a real consequence of vehicle emissions. When cars release nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide, these pollutants can mix with water vapour in the atmosphere to form acid rain. Acid rain can damage forests, lakes, and even buildings. It affects the pH of bodies of water, making them uninhabitable for fish and other wildlife. Hence, affecting living bodies in water. Air Pollution: One of the most immediate effects of car emissions is air pollution. Have you ever walked down a busy city street, only to be overwhelmed by the smell of exhaust? That’s just a tiny part of what cars release into the atmosphere. Cars emit a range of harmful pollutants, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and other dangerous compounds. These pollutants lead to smog, particularly in urban areas with heavy traffic. Smog is not just an eyesore—it’s dangerous to our health. It can cause breathing problems, aggravate conditions like asthma, and even lead to more serious respiratory diseases. The elderly, children and those with pre-existing conditions are especially vulnerable. Disruptions of Ecosystems: Car emissions don’t just affect the air—they also disrupt ecosystems. Pollution from vehicles can settle in the soil and water, harming plants and animals. Additionally, climate change caused by car emissions is putting many species at risk. As temperatures rise, animals that can’t adapt to the changing conditions may face extinction. Even the simple act of building roads and highways for cars fragments natural habitats, cutting animals off from food sources and migration routes. Driving Climate Change: Beyond air pollution, car emissions are a significant driver of climate change. Cars that run on diesel, release carbon dioxide (CO2), one of the major greenhouse gases. These gases trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, leading to rising temperatures.  The effects of climate change are everywhere. This is leading to more extreme weather events like hurricanes, floods, and droughts. All of this can be traced, in part, to the emissions that come from the billions of cars on the road. Economic and Health Costs: The environmental impact of car emissions goes hand-in-hand with public health concerns. Air pollution from cars has been linked to a rise in illnesses like asthma, heart disease, and lung cancer. This, in turn, puts pressure on healthcare systems and costs the economy billions in medical expenses and lost productivity. Moreover, climate change caused by vehicle emissions has an economic toll. Dealing with natural disasters, repairing damage from storms, and managing droughts and floods all drain resources from economies around the world. To curb these impacts, we could begin to invest in greener public transport systems and implement stricter emission standards, by ridding faulty vehicles. On a personal level, being mindful of our transportation choices, like opting for fuel-efficient cars or using alternative forms of transport—can make a difference. In conclusion, the environmental implications of car emissions are clear. By making smarter transportation choices and supporting cleaner technologies, we can help reduce the damage done to the planet. Every action counts, and together, we can steer toward a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable world. Let’s drive the change, one ride at a time! Also read: Climate Change: 10 Major Effects On Human Life

5 Nutrient-Rich Foods for a Powerful Skin Glow. 

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Healthy Skin;5 Nutrient Rich Foods for a Powerful Skin Glow. 

Good food is the gateway to a healthy skin. It can’t be overemphasized that good nutrition is needed to achieve good health. An unhealthy diet can cause a lot of damage to the body system such as nutrient deficiencies, organ damage and weight related issues. Do you know that what you eat also affects your skin? Well yes, it does, that is why it is important to eat your way to healthy skin. To achieve a healthy and glowing skin, incorporating some food and its nutrients into your daily nutrition plan will be very helpful. Tell me who isn’t happy when their skin is glowing and reflecting a healthy life? This article takes a look at 5 nutrient rich foods that will help your skin get the glow it needs. Vegetables Vegetables are very essential to achieving healthy and glowing skin vegetables contain antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and hydrating contents that help to boost skin health. They also help to reduce inflammation and improve elasticity. Examples of vegetables that can be incorporated into diet are spinach, carrots, tomatoes, garlic, onions, broccoli, cucumbers and so many others. Adding vegetables to your diet will protect your skin from damages, reduce ageing, improve hydration and promote healthy digestion. 2. Fatty Fish Fatty fish are an essential source of food for healthy skin. They mostly contain Omega-3 fatty acid that are important to maintain a glowing and healthy skin. Fatty fish such as mackerel and salmon, are very rich in omega-3 fatty acid. It helps to reduce inflammation, improve skin elasticity and hydration. Deficiency of the fatty acid causes dry skin, dehydration and premature ageing. Fatty fish contains high level of vitamin E, zinc needed for skin health and a very good source of protein. 3. Sweet potatoes Sweet potato contains beta carotene, that can be converted to vitamin A in the body. It also contains vitamin C. All of these important nutrients help to protect against skin damage, promote collagen production and supports skin elasticity. Sweet potatoes can be eaten mashed, boiled, baked or roasted according to individual taste to unlock the benefits of healthy skin. 4. Avocados Avocados are fruits with natural abundance of healthy fat. This is very beneficial to the body and especially the skin. It protects the skin from ultraviolet damage, contains vitamin E, an important antioxidant needed by the skin, and also, vitamin C, which is needed to create collagen that helps the skin to be strong and healthy. 5. Almonds Almonds are naturally embedded with unsaturated fatty acids. They are a very rich source of antioxidants and vitamin E, both of which are important to protect the skin from damages, improve elasticity of the skin and soothes dry skin. Eating almonds daily will help unlock its rich skin benefits leaving your skin glowing and smooth. In conclusion, get the glow with these 5 nutrient-rich foods for healthy skin! Incorporate omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins from fatty fish, sweet potatoes, almonds, fresh vegetables, and avocados into your diet to boost collagen production, reduce inflammation, and promote skin elasticity. Say, no to dull skin henceforth and embrace a glowing skin complexion! Also Read: What is a Plant Based Diet and its Benefit?