5 Ways to Overcome Stress and Reclaim Your Well-Being.

by
stress and wellbeing

In today’s world, it’s not uncommon to find ourselves buried under an overwhelming workload, constantly racing against the clock. The result? Stress. The relentless pressure of too much work without adequate rest can lead to a host of physical and mental health issues. But the good news is, you don’t have to be a victim of stress. In this article, we will explore why too much workload without rest can cause stress, and most importantly, we’ll discuss 5 effective ways to overcome stress. Why Too Much Workload Without Rest Causes Stress Stress is your body’s natural response to a perceived threat or pressure. When you’re continually bombarded with work and have no time to recharge, your stress levels can soar. Here’s how too much workload without rest can contribute to stress: Overwhelming Pressure: A relentless workload can create a sense of constant pressure. When you’re under pressure all the time, your body responds by releasing stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can lead to stress. Lack of Work-Life Balance: When work takes over your life, you might neglect other crucial aspects like family, friends, hobbies, and relaxation. This imbalance can exacerbate stress. Sleep Disruption: Long working hours and tight deadlines can disrupt your sleep patterns. Inadequate rest can make you more susceptible to stress. Mental and Emotional Strain: Too much work can lead to mental and emotional exhaustion. The constant strain can contribute to stress and burnout. 5 Tips for Overcoming Stress 1. Take a Break: Taking regular breaks is essential to combat stress. Short breaks during the workday and longer vacations when possible can help you recharge and refocus. 2. Exercise Regularly: Physical activity is a powerful stress buster. It releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. 3. Eat a Balanced Diet: A well-balanced diet provides your body with the nutrients it needs to manage stress effectively. Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into your meals. 4. Employ Good Time Management: Effective time management can help you organize your tasks and reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed. Prioritize your work, set realistic deadlines, and break tasks into manageable chunks. 5. Outsource or Delegate Tasks: If you’re swamped with work, don’t be afraid to delegate or outsource tasks. It can lighten your load and provide you with more time for self-care and relaxation. Conclusion: Overcoming stress caused by too much workload without rest is crucial for your overall well-being. By implementing these five tips, you can regain control of your life and reduce the harmful effects of stress. Remember, a healthy work-life balance and self-care are not luxuries but necessities. By taking steps to manage stress, you can lead a happier and more productive life.     Evelyn Temitayo Ajimuda is a versatile creative writer, content creator, poet, and captivating storyteller. With her words, she weaves narratives that inspire hope and spread boundless joy to her readers.

FOOTPRINTS

by
footprints

To Ada, nature seemed to be the only thing life could not mess with, as it does with humans. At 16, the sea had become her favorite. It was like a balm to her soul, easing her pain. The recent experience with Papa began to replay in her mind, gaining passage into her thoughts. She wished she could stop them, she wished her brain would delete the traumatizing encounters with Papa, instead of hitting replay anytime her mind wandered. She had done more than wishing. On many occasions, she always tried to stop thinking about the traumatic life with Papa but somehow, it was always a futile effort.It was market day, Papa had given her money to purchase foodstuffs but unfortunately, robbers attacked her on the way. Papa’s wrathful shouting and cussing filled her ears and pierced her heart. Tears rolled down her cheeks, as his words came back to taunt her.‘Do you want to kill me like you killed my wife? Eh, joy killer!” He shouted, landing quick successive slaps on her right cheek before using his belt on her scarred body. She had outgrown physical pain but the emotional assault would always sting, no matter how many times he repeated the same phrase without mincing a word.The constant reminder that her mother died while giving her life, was a pain she couldn’t express with words. The pain was deeper than the jagged, ugly scars riddling her body. She would have cared less if her father’s hatred wasn’t inclusive. He didn’t even make any efforts to disguise his hatred, he made it obvious for everyone to see, even the blind.To him, she killed his loving wife and caused his wretchedness. She wished her father would accept that it was not her fault Mama kicked the bucket the instant she ‘pushed’ her into the world. She desired her father would open his eyes and see she was not an evil child. Who wouldn’t want to be showered with motherly affection? Just as he craved a wife’s love, she too craved a mother’s love! Why wouldn’t he see that?Sometimes, she earnestly hoped he would realize she was just as unlucky as he was. After all, she lost a mother, his acceptance, and his love.Her phone vibrated, jolting her out of her reverie, and confirming it was time to leave. Just like every other footprint staring at her, she stared back, noting the size and imprint of each one.She stood up, shook out her flowing skirt, and took a final glance at the different sizes etched on the sand. It spoke of the different souls with diverse situations, who had also walked across the white sands of the seashore.She wondered if people’s life torments were measured by foot sizes as well. Has someone who lost everything, treaded here? Has someone with mild physical pain sought the peace only serenity can give?There was no way she would know for sure, but she was grateful for the footprints, it was a reminder that she wasn’t alone in her struggles.“A footprint holds the story of an overcomer.” She murmured to herself. The strength to continue living, and the courage to dream and hope for a better life, came from these footprints. These soldiers who had gone before her didn’t give up.“I won’t give up.” She said into the chill air, “One day, my story will change. I will come here again, press my feet deep into the sand, and leave a story of hope.”Wiping a lone tear that escaped her eyes, she pulled her foot from her worn rubber slippers and pressed it into the cool sand.“One day, this sand will bear testimony of my story.” She said as she turned to leave for home; a building that reeked of sorrow, anger, and bitterness, and a family she never got to know.

Ethical Issues Of Artificial Intelligence In Healthcare

by
Ethical Issues Of AI In Healthcare 300x200

Ethical Issues Of Artificial Intelligence In Healthcare The role of artificial intelligence in healthcare is fast becoming prominent. However, ethical issues such as data privacy, data handling, biases, patient confidentiality, and more have raised concerns about the reliability of AI in healthcare.  Over the past decade, AI and technology (machine learning) have helped to provide new insights into clinical cases and drug discovery. With AI, health workers, particularly nurses, are more well-rested and overburdened with problems machines can solve. This is a massive breakthrough for the healthcare sector.  In this article, we will discuss some of these ethical issues. Data handling and Security  Drug development  Biases  1. Data handling and Security In healthcare, medical personnel use electronic records or data collected from patients can be used for scientific purposes such as clinical and academic research to improve healthcare quality. However, there are risks of these data being hacked by cybercriminals and third parties.  This ethical issue leads to a break in patient-doctor confidentiality. In some scenarios, sensitive data has been sold to unprofessional sources. 2. Drug Development  In drug development, artificial intelligence helps in drug development, which used to be strictly human-led. Data generated from patients can be used to develop specific drugs and models that are gene, organ, and tissue specific depending on the needs of individual patients.  However, concerns are being raised about the current regulatory laws and whether there is a need to implement more rules to allow data privacy, especially in drug development. This is to protect the patient’s privacy.  3. Biases  AI biases are another ethical issue that threatens the growth of AI in the health system. These biases are anomalies that arise when human designers unknowingly introduce them to the AI model during creation. Another instance of bias occurs during incomplete data collection. Although these biases are not intentional, they can lead to differential treatment, improper diagnosis, and less effective treatment. Conclusion  In conjunction with policymakers, the government at all levels needs to work together to ensure that ethical issues, such as data privacy, the safety of patient information, and informed consent, are tackled promptly to have a beautiful working system.  

Peace

by
sunguk kim JhqBxsORuXA unsplash 300x210

  “Never be in a hurry; do everything quietly and calmly. Do not lose your inner peace for anything whatsoever, even if your whole world seems” Saint Francis de Sales. Peace is a precious commodity that must be jealously guarded for progress in an individual’s life. Other schools of thought define peace as the presence of harmonious friendship and the absence of violence, conflict, or war. Types of Peace There are two types of peace recognised globally. They are: Internal peace (Individual peace) External ppeace 1. Internal peace Internal peace can also be described as peace within oneself. Achieving internal peace is a gradual process that requires much effort and positivity. In the religious context, internal peace can be achieved through meditation, solemn prayers, and reflections. Internal peace is vital as it reflects true peace and is the foundation of external peace.   2. External peace External peace occurs in a community or society. In a broader sense, external peace is the absence of war, violence, social injustice, social disturbances, inequality, etc. The bedrock of external peace is internal peace and vice versa. The absence of peace in an individual contributes largely to disrupting external peace. This is because we make up a society. On the other hand, external peace contributes to inner peace as it affect the community or society and can contribute to internal peace due to its influence on human life. Importance of Peace Peace contributes to maintaining composure in all situations. Peace brings about inner calmness. Peace eliminates anxiety, worries, uncertainty, and doubt. Peace promotes the growth and development of a community.   Conclusion Peace is a fundamental aspect of human life that contributes significantly to building a better world. It provides a foundation for social and economic progress, political stability, and the promotion of human rights. By promoting cooperation and unde7rstanding among nations and fostering social justice and equity, peace contributes to achieving a harmonious and prosperous global community. It is up to all of us to work towards peace in our lives, communities, and world and make it a reality for everyone.      

The Role Of AI In Transforming Healthcare

by
The Role Of AI In Transforming Healthcare

The healthcare sector constantly faces a growth in demand in all parts of the world. This demand has prompted the use of AI to transform the healthcare sector.  An increasing population drives this demand, the outbreak of zoonotic and non-zoonotic diseases, a rise in genetic conditions, lifestyle changes, and a continuous cycle of innovative technology. With all these demands, it is difficult for the healthcare sector to keep up without structural and transformational modifications. This is where AI comes in. In combination with machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing. AI contributes to better diagnosis, treatment prevention and management, personalised care, and delivery of accurate prediction of diseases in the population, all of which have transformed the healthcare sector. Here are some of the uses of AI in healthcare. 1. Imaging and diagnostics The use of AI and diagnostic imaging, especially in radiology, helps to improve imaging analysis and provide adequate care and treatment based on diagnosis. The introduction of AI reduces the chances of error in diagnosing clinical conditions. Examples of diagnostic tools used for imaging include Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT), and Positron Emission Tomography (PET). 2 Precision medicine Precision medicine focuses on diagnosing and treating patients based on genetic makeup rather than signs and symptoms. The evolution of AI aids healthcare providers to personalise treatments and improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, pharmaceutical companies use precision medicine knowledge to develop more potent drugs with limited side effects. READ ALSO: Wearable Devices: The Impact On Personal Health Conclusion AI in healthcare has come a long way and gives promising solutions for using AI in diagnosis, treatment management, and data collection, which can improve patient outcomes. In the next few years, they have taken over the healthcare sector, thereby improving efficacy and efficiency, reducing the cost of production, and the rise of certain medical conditions. However, concerns and challenges, especially about the ethical indications of AI centered around patient confidentiality, data privacy, and others, should be addressed to have an effective system.

Empathy: A Vital Ingredient In Parenting

by
Empathy A Vital Ingredient In Parenting

To feel someone’s pain has far too often been considered empathy. However, a standard definition of empathy by emotion researchers is the ability to sense other people’s emotions, coupled with the ability to imagine what someone else might be thinking or feeling. Empathy is a choice and the product of a dynamic decision-making process based on motivation. Growing up, there were many occasions I wished my parents could see things from my point of view but they could not understand and instead superimposed their opinions on me and my siblings. These actions pushed me into the hands of peer influence, cold-hearted adolescents, bold enough to defy their parent’s instructions. My parents constantly reprimanded me, but I cared less at some point. Statistics show that empathetic parenting involves parents guiding children to become emotionally aware. Rather than disciplining a child for wrongdoing, providing explanations as to why discipline is needed will help the child recognise right from wrong. It has been suggested that parents’ empathy plays an important factor in the parent-child relationship, by moderating child behaviour. In academic research by the National Centre for Bio-Technology Information, school and home are the two main living environments of school-age children. Parents structure children’s home environment and implement family parenting. Their ability to handle their emotional problems and accept and cope with their children’s emotional problems can substantially affect children’s social competence and mental health. Research has shown that parental negative emotional expressions can trigger childhood destructive behaviour problems. Parents of children with a persistent tendency to disobey cannot accurately perceive their own emotions and have poorer emotional regulation and management skills. Parental empathy may be another factor that affects children’s social abilities. In addition, parents with strong empathy provide their children with a safe foundation from which children can explore their emotional experiences and seek comfort when experiencing emotional distress. A case study shows that children and adolescents with high levels of empathy are more accepted by their peers. Preschoolers aged between 3 and 6 years who are perceived by their teachers as defenders and mediators ( pro-social role) have better affective empathy, although cognitive empathy is not taken into account. ALSO READ: Parent-Child Communication: Vital Reasons to Build Bonds that Last In conclusion, empathy is beyond a value I believe in but a principle that is needed in life and parenting. We should all be empathetic, with empathy is healing. Start today to truly listen to the soul of a person more than their words and share their pain, joy and laughter. Live by being empathetic.

6 Essential Tips on Building Healthy Relationships and Setting Boundaries

by
Healthy relationships

Have you been struggling with building healthy relationships and setting boundaries? Worry no more. Here are some essential tips on building healthy relationships and setting boundaries. Healthy relationships and well defined boundaries are the two main factors in life that determine peaceful cohabitation and happy existence (whether with family, friends, lovers, or neighbors). When thoughtfully combined, these elements promote happiness, personal development, and an enhanced quality of life. In order to provide you a compass for a more fulfilling existence, we will cover the art of creating healthy connections and setting up effective boundaries in this piece. How to Build Healthy Relationships Love and Give Unconditionally The concept of giving love without expecting anything in return may seem old fashioned. But it’s the basis for creating wholesome connections. We foster relationships that are stronger over time when we give our affection freely. Relationships become deeper and more satisfying when selfless love is present. Be appreciative Relationships thrive when we acknowledge and express gratitude. Appreciation isn’t merely a kind gesture; it’s what fuels the growth of bonds. When we appreciate others, we not only strengthen our connections but also create a positive atmosphere of love and support. Learn to use the Magic Words: Thank You and I’m Sorry. In relationships, these two simple words carry weight: “thank you” and “I’m sorry.” These phrases act as bridges to maintain harmony. Saying “thank you” acknowledges the kindness of others, and “I’m sorry” mends the broken bridges. Setting Boundaries Don’t Start What You Can’t Finish Limits and personal space are defined by boundaries. Setting realistic expectations is crucial since going overboard can stress us out and disrupt our relationships. Before accepting duties or responsibilities, we should think about the art of capacity assessment to make sure our commitments are in line with our abilities (No go Dey do pass yourself). Know When to Say No Learning to say “no” is an invaluable skill.  Polite declines are not selfish but vital for maintaining our well-being. Express Your Stance Bottling in feeling, creates rifts and misunderstandings. Effective boundaries rely on open communication. Don’t be scared of expressing your stance. If they agree, Fine. If they don’t, it is still all well and good. Setting your boundaries will be much easier if you state them clearly. Conclusion: The path to peace and happiness is paved with good relationships and clear limits.  Keep in mind that the secret to living a happy life is finding the right balance between showing love without conditions and establishing boundaries with care.   Evelyn Temitayo Ajimuda is a versatile creative writer, content creator, poet, and captivating storyteller. With her words, she weaves narratives that inspire hope and spread boundless joy to her readers.

Resilience and Healing

by
istockphoto 1173451503 612x612

I’m the mistake of my father, The naivety of my mother, The exuberance of teen age that yielded fruit; A seed planted in a soil not ready to hold a root. I need healing, I need to dive in resilience   I’m not the mistake of my father, The willingness of my mother, From a matrimonial bed, I am the fruit; A seed that sprouted from good soil to hold its root. I need healing, I need to dive in resilience   I’m the victim of abandonment; at birth, they left, Tales like Cain and Abel, my world melted. Death was a thief; my father died, my father became a wanderer, Two worlds in the same scene; in its shadow, I became a sojourner. I need healing, I need to dive in resilience.   Starting from the constant reprimand of my father’s mistakes, A bond from the connection of ruthlessness breaks. I’m depressed from his demise without goodbye, Watching the glitter of the sparse stars, hoping he comes by. I need healing, I need to dive in resilience   I’m searching for healing, Resilient in my quest to be saved. Hold me closer, my soul in quest of peace. Daddy, Mummy, when will it seize.

4 Proven Strategies to Prevent Writer’s Block.

by
IMG 1350

Writer’s block is every writer’s worst nightmare. Are you battling writer’s block or tired of constantly running out of creative ideas when you’re writing? It’s a common challenge for many writers, and I’ve been there too. Here are 4 proven strategies to prevent writer’s block and fuel your creative writing. Read, Observe, and Listen: Stimulate your creativity by immersing yourself in different sources of inspiration. Reading not only provides valuable information but also generates mental images that can fuel your creative writing. Watching movies and visuals related to your niche, as well as observing your surroundings, can spark fresh ideas. Additionally, listening to various forms of content can stimulate your brain in unique ways. By combining these activities, you’ll find your pen flowing effortlessly. Keep a Digital Notebook:  Taking the previous tip a step further, it’s crucial to capture those fleeting moments of inspiration. Our minds can get overwhelmed with daily activities, making it easy to forget brilliant ideas and experience writer’s block. Thankfully, we now have electronic notepads that allow us to jot down thoughts on the go. With a simple press of a button, you can record your ideas, ensuring you never miss an opportunity to nurture your creative content. With this, you can say farewell to writer’s block! Write, Write, Write: Once you’ve gathered your creative ideas in their raw form, it’s time to refine them through writing. Remember, these ideas won’t refine themselves. Consistency is key. Commit to writing regularly, as creative content thrives when you nurture it consistently. Consider embarking on a writing challenge, whether it’s for 10, 20, or even 100 days. Don’t worry about the length; focus on maintaining a steady writing routine. The more you write, the more your creative well will deepen and overflow with fresh ideas. Writer’s block worst enemy is consistent writing.   4.  Ask for feedback: Working with other authors and getting input from your peers is one of the best methods to keep your original work flowing. Working with others in your niche might provide you new insights and concepts that you might not have thought of on your own. It’s a fantastic way to stretch your imagination and broaden your perspectives. Don’t be afraid to share your work for helpful feedback, participate in writing clubs, or join writing forums. Accepting comments and participation might act as a catalyst for your creative content writing and bid writer’s block farewell. By implementing these three strategies, you’ll not only avoid the frustration of writer’s block or of running out of creative content but also enhance your writing skills and productivity. So, grab your pen and start creating the magic your audience is waiting for. Happy writing!   Evelyn Temitayo Ajimuda is a versatile creative writer, content creator, poet, and captivating storyteller. With her words, she weaves narratives that inspire hope and spread boundless joy to her readers.

Unmasking the Silent Epidemic (Human Papilloma virus)to Guard Your Health through HPV Vaccine and Regular Screening

by
HPV Vaccine and Regular Screening

Studies show that the HPV epidemic is the most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide. This silent epidemic is spreading, and the majority of sexually active individuals will contract at least one type of the disease during their lifetime. There is a prevalent viral infection that affects millions of people worldwide. They are a group of related viruses that affect various parts of the body, with more than 200 different types identified. This disease is Human Papillomavirus (HPV). If you have heard of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), you will know that understanding it plays a crucial role in sexual health and can have implications for various aspects of well-being. HPV is a DNA virus that affects the skin and mucous membranes. HPV is highly contagious and affects people of all genders and ages. It is spread through intimate skin-to-skin contact, including vertical transmission (pregnancy), sexual and non-sexual means. HPV is classified into low-risk HPV and high-risk HPV. Potential health risks include genital warts, cancer, and pre-cancerous changes for cases of cervical cancers. It is important to understand that HPV can be prevented when you protect your health through safer sexual practices, regular screenings, and get vaccinated. Prevention is your personal responsibility by making proactive healthcare choices. HPV Vaccine over the years have proven highly effective in preventing HPV infections and the associated health risks. The effectiveness also varies based on vaccine type and the number of doses administered. The vaccines have proven their effectiveness by preventing HPV infections, reducing the risk of cervical cancer, and regulating the incidence caused by genital warts. They are for both genders, provide long-lasting protection, and reduce the prevalence of the targeted types of HPV in the population. Receive your vaccine according to the recommended schedule. Regular screening is a proactive means of prevention, and while it can’t directly reduce the risk of HPV, it contributes to early reduction and treatment, prevents cancer development, promotes education and awareness, protects sexual partners, and promotes community health. HPV prevention is your responsibility; make wise decisions! Lily learned she had cervical cancer at 27. Know that HPV causes almost all cervical cancers. She is encouraging parents to protect their children/wards from HPV-related cancers by getting them vaccinated. Regular screening and vaccination are essential to prevent cervical cancers. Contact your local hospital and healthcare provider to inform you where you can get access to HPV screening and vaccines. There are ongoing campaigns in Nigeria to combat the spread of HPV, and they also offer vaccines and screenings at an affordable rate.   Get Screened Now. Schedule your HPV Vaccination Today. Share the Knowledge, Spread the Protection.