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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 The Stigma Is Real, But It’s Also Outdated: In our culture, divorce is still whispered about like a scandal.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...
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Wellness: 10 Daily Habits that Can Improve Your Mental Health

 

African man resting on a pillow

Maintaining good mental health is essential for overall well-being, regardless of which stage of life you find yourself.

Simple daily habits can significantly improve your mental health, helping you manage stress, enhance mood, and increase resilience. 

Here are 10 daily habits that can make a difference:


1. Start Your Day with Mindfulness: Begin your day with a few minutes of mindfulness or meditation. This practice can help clear your mind, reduce anxiety, and set a positive tone for the day. Just five to ten minutes of focused breathing, guided meditation, or praying, can increase your awareness and keep stress at bay.

African lady on a sofa

2. Prioritize Sleep: A good night’s sleep is crucial for mental health. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Establish a regular sleep schedule and create a bedtime routine to signal your body that it’s time to wind down. Quality sleep helps regulate mood and improves cognitive function.

African man reclining on a sofa

3. Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters. Whether it’s a brisk walk, low impact work out, or a gym session, physical activity can help reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. Try to include at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise in your daily routine.

African lady working out outdoor

4. Eat a Balanced Diet: What you eat directly affects how you feel. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and flaxseeds, are particularly beneficial for mood regulation.

African man eating a salad

5. Connect with Loved Ones: Social connections are vital for mental well-being. Make it a habit to reach out to friends or family daily, even if it’s just a quick text or call. Positive social interactions can reduce feelings of loneliness and boost your mood.

Young African family

6. Practice Gratitude: Take a moment each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for. Whether it’s jotting down three things in a journal or simply acknowledging them mentally, gratitude practices can shift your focus from what’s wrong to what’s right, fostering a more positive outlook.

Young African girl writing

7. Limit Screen Time: Excessive screen time, particularly on social media, can negatively impact mental health. Set boundaries for your screen usage, especially before bed, and engage in offline activities like reading or spending time in nature.

African guy strolling outdoors

8. Manage Stress with Healthy Outlets: Develop healthy coping mechanisms for stress, such as deep breathing exercises, journaling, or engaging in hobbies. Avoid turning to unhealthy habits like overeating or excessive alcohol consumption, which can increase stress.

African couple cycling together

9. Set Realistic Goals: Break down your tasks into manageable chunks and set realistic daily goals. Achieving small goals can give you a sense of accomplishment, boosting your confidence and reducing overwhelm.

African lady checking her wristwatch

10. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Everyone has off days, and it’s essential to treat yourself with the same compassion you would offer a friend. Acknowledge your efforts and avoid self-criticism when things don’t go as planned.

African man journaling

Making these habits a part of your daily routine can create a solid foundation for better mental health. Remember, small, consistent actions can lead to significant, lasting changes.


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