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Divorced and Thriving: How to Break the Stigma Around Second Chances

  Let’s be honest; nobody walks down the aisle thinking they’ll one day be divorced. You plan the wedding, dream of forever, and hope love will always be enough. Unfortunately, it isn’t always so. And when it all falls apart, society often makes it worse. Especially here in Nigeria, where aunties at every family gathering suddenly become relationship counsellors, whispering things like, “What happened?” or “You’ll find someone soon, by God’s grace.” As if your worth expired with your marriage . Now, here’s the truth: divorce isn’t the end of your story. It’s a chapter; a painful one, yes, but also powerful. It can be the beginning of rediscovery, healing, and even thriving. So, let’s talk about breaking the stigma and embracing second chances in love, in life, and in yourself. 1. The Stigma Is Real, But It’s Also Outdated: In our culture, divorce is still whispered about like a scandal. People say “she’s divorced” in hushed tones, as if it’s a crime. Men face judgment too, t...

Health: 7 Sustainable Weight Loss Tips that Actually Work

 

African couple working out together

Losing weight sustainably can be challenging in a world filled with fad diets and quick-fix solutions. However, by focusing on healthy habits and long-term strategies, you can achieve your weight loss goals while maintaining your overall well-being.

Here are 7 sustainable weight loss tips that actually work.


1. Mindful Eating: Mindful eating involves paying full attention to your eating experience without distractions. It encourages you to savour your food, recognize hunger and fullness cues, and make healthier choices. Slow down, chew thoroughly, and enjoy each bite. This practice can prevent overeating and help you develop a healthier relationship with food.

African couple eating together

2. Balanced Diet: Instead of following restrictive diets, aim for a balanced diet rich in whole foods. Incorporate a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats into your meals. This approach ensures you get all the necessary nutrients while maintaining a calorie deficit for weight loss. Avoid processed foods and sugary beverages, which can contribute to weight gain.

African man eating balanced diet

3. Regular Physical Activity: Adding regular physical activity to your daily routine is essential for sustainable weight loss. Find an activity you enjoy, whether it’s walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing, and make it a part of your daily life. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Physical activity not only helps burn calories but also boosts your metabolism and improves overall health.

African couple walking together

4. Adequate Sleep: Quality sleep is often overlooked but plays a crucial role in weight management. Lack of sleep can disrupt hormones that regulate hunger and appetite, leading to overeating. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to support your weight loss efforts. Establish a regular sleep schedule, create a restful environment, and avoid screens before bedtime to improve sleep quality.

Young African woman sleeping

5. Hydration: Staying hydrated is vital for overall health and can aid in weight loss. Drinking water before meals can help you feel fuller, reducing the likelihood of overeating. Sometimes, thirst is mistaken for hunger, leading to unnecessary snacking. Aim to drink at least 8 cups of water daily and more if you’re physically active or in hot weather.

African man drinking water

6. Stress Management: Chronic stress can lead to emotional eating and weight gain. Implement stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or hobbies that you enjoy. Taking time for yourself and managing stress effectively can prevent unhealthy eating habits and support weight loss.

African couple riding bicycles outdoors

7. Consistency and Patience: Sustainable weight loss requires consistency and patience. Set realistic goals and understand that progress may be slow but steady. Avoid the temptation of quick-fix diets that promise rapid results, as they often lead to rebound weight gain. Celebrate small victories and stay committed to your healthy habits, knowing that lasting change takes time.

African couple cooking together


Sustainable weight loss is about creating healthy habits that you can maintain for life. By engaging in the tips explained above, you can achieve your weight loss goals and enjoy a healthier, happier life.

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