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Guide to a Balanced Sleep Schedule

By 2 Mins Read

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to neglect sleep, often prioritizing work, social life, or entertainment. However, consistent and quality sleep is essential for both physical and mental well-being. A balanced sleep schedule can significantly improve your mood, energy levels, and overall health.

Why is a Balanced Sleep Schedule Important?

  • Physical Health: Sleep aids in tissue repair, boosts the immune system, and regulates hormones.
  • Mental Health: It enhances mood, reduces stress, and improves cognitive function.
  • Emotional Well-being: Adequate sleep can help prevent anxiety, depression, and irritability.

Creating Your Ideal Sleep Schedule

Determine Your Sleep Need:

  • Most adults require 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
  • Experiment to find the optimal amount that leaves you feeling refreshed.

Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule:

  • Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
  • Consistency helps regulate your body’s internal clock.

Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine:

  • Wind down before bed with calming activities like reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing meditation.
  • Avoid stimulating activities like watching TV or using electronic devices.

Optimize Your Sleep Environment:

  • Ensure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.
  • Invest in a comfortable mattress, pillows, and bedding.

Watch Your Diet and Exercise:

  • Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime.
  • Regular exercise can improve sleep quality, but avoid intense workouts late at night.

Manage Stress:

  • Practice stress-relief techniques like yoga, deep breathing, or journaling.
  • Seek professional help if stress is significantly impacting your sleep.

Tips for Better Sleep

  • Power Down: Avoid screens for at least an hour before bed.
  • Hydrate Wisely: Drink plenty of water during the day, but limit fluid intake close to bedtime.
  • Take Naps Strategically: Short naps can be refreshing, but avoid long naps, especially late in the day.
  • Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling with chronic sleep issues, consult a doctor or sleep specialist.

By prioritizing sleep and following these guidelines, you can improve your overall health and well-being. Remember, a good night’s sleep is an investment in yourself.

Having trouble with your sleep schedule? Try out these steps and let me know how it worked out for you!

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Lifestyle

Self-Care Rituals for the Busy Bee: Reclaiming Your Me-TIME

By 3 Mins Read

Are you constantly juggling work, family, and social commitments? Do you often find yourself feeling overwhelmed and stressed? If so, you’re not alone. Many of us lead busy lives, but it’s important to prioritize self-care to maintain our mental and physical health.

Why Self-Care Matters

Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. When we take time for ourselves, we’re better equipped to handle life’s challenges. It helps reduce stress, boost our mood, and increase productivity. So, how can you incorporate self-care into your busy schedule?

Creating a Self-Care Routine

Identify Your Stress Triggers:

Pinpoint the culprits: What situations or activities tend to stress you out the most?Tailor your routine: Once you identify your triggers, you can create a self-care routine that specifically addresses them.

Set Realistic Goals:

Small steps, big impact: Start with small, achievable goals. For example, aim to meditate for 5 minutes each morning.Build gradually: As you become more comfortable with your routine, you can gradually increase the time you dedicate to self-care.

Schedule Me-Time:

Prioritize yourself: Treat self-care as an important appointment. Schedule it in your calendar and stick to it.Be flexible: Life happens. If something unexpected comes up, don’t beat yourself up. Simply reschedule your me-time.

Self-Care Ritual Ideas

Quiet your mind: Even a few minutes of meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Mindful breathing: Focus on your breath and let go of negative thoughts

physical Activity: Get moving. Exercise is a great way to boost your mood and reduce stress.Find your favorite. Whether it’s yoga, dancing, or hiking, choose an activity you enjoy.

Fuel your body: Eating nutritious foods can improve your overall health and well-being.Prepare healthy meals at home to control your food intake and reduce stress.

Quality Sleep:Prioritize rest. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.Create a calming bedtime routine: Establish a relaxing routine before bed, such as reading a book or taking a warm bath.

Explore your passions: Engage in activities you love, such as painting, writing, or playing a musical instrument.

Unleash your creativity: Creative outlets can help you relax and de-stress.

Connect with loved ones: Spend time with friends and family to strengthen your relationships.

Join a community: Participate in group activities or volunteer to meet new people and give back.

Remember, self-care is a journey, not a destination. It’s about finding what works best for you and making it a part of your daily routine.

By prioritizing self-care, you’ll be better equipped to handle life’s challenges and live a happier, healthier life.

What are your favorite self-care rituals? Share your tips and tricks on our socials!

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Blog Posts

Exercise: The Ultimate Glow-Up: Health Benefits You Can’t Ignore

By 3 Mins Read

Imagine this: You wake up, throw on your favorite outfit, and glance in the mirror, only to feel like something is just… off. We’ve all been there. Maybe you’ve admired someone on social media and thought, “Why do they look so amazing in that, but I don’t?”

Here’s the secret: it’s not just about the clothes it’s about how you feel in them, and exercise plays a huge part in that. We get it, though: working out is probably the last thing on your mind. Who wants to sweat it out when you can binge-watch your favorite show or hang out with friends, right?

But hear us out. You don’t need to be a gym junkie, but adding a little movement to your day can work wonders not just for how you look, but for how you feel. And trust us, you’ll notice the difference sooner than you think.

Benefits of Exercise for Women

  • Prevents Bone Loss and Osteoporosis: Women are more likely than men to experience bone-related issues as they age. A little strength training or movement now will help protect you from future problems, and who doesn’t want strong bones?
  • Helps Counteract Mood Swings: We all know how unpredictable mood swings can be, thanks to hormones. Exercise helps to regulate those hormones and can actually make you feel calmer and more balanced, especially when PMS hits.
  • Improves Sleep: Struggling with restless nights? Regular exercise has a track record for helping you get better sleep, which means waking up feeling more refreshed and ready to take on the day.
  • Burns Calories Efficiently: Adding strength training ike a few squats here and there can help you burn calories without overthinking it, and let you enjoy your favorite meals without the guilt.
  • Boosts Confidence: There’s nothing like the feeling of getting stronger and seeing progress. It boosts your confidence, helping you feel more powerful in everything from your outfits to your everyday life.

Tips to Start Your Fitness Journey

  • Start Slowly: You don’t need to commit to an hour a day. Start with just 10 or 15 minutes, and build up gradually.
  • Break It Up: Don’t stress about doing it all at once. You can break your exercise into small chunks throughout the day like a few squats during your Netflix binge.
  • Find What You Enjoy: Hate the idea of running? Try something fun, like dancing in your room or taking a short walk with your favorite playlist. It doesn’t have to be boring.
  • Listen to Your Body: Pushing too hard isn’t the goal. Listen to your body, rest when you need to, and be kind to yourself.
  • Mix It Up: Keep things interesting! Try different activities to prevent boredom and stay motivated.

And here’s an easy challenge: try 20 squats a day. They’re quick, they build strength, and they’ll have you feeling toned and confident in no time.

So, what’s your go-to way to stay active? Have you tried any fitness challenges lately? Let’s talk about how to make staying fit fun and easy!

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Fashion

How to Style Emo Aesthetics: A Guide to Nailing the Look

By 2 Mins Read

Emo fashion is more than just dark colours and band t-shirts—it’s an expression of individuality, emotion, and alternative culture. If you’re inspired by the emo aesthetic described in our previous post, this guide will help you pull off the look with confidence and creativity.

Embrace Black and Red as Core Colours:

The foundation of emo style revolves around black, with accents of red symbolising depth and emotion. Start with black skinny jeans, skeleton print pants, or a distressed black t-shirt. Add pops of red through accessories like a scarf, beanie, or red streaks in your hair.

Invest in Band T-Shirts:

Band t-shirts are a staple in emo fashion, especially if you’ve picked them up at concerts. Choose tees from emo bands like My Chemical Romance, Fall Out Boy, or Panic! at the Disco. Pair them with skinny jeans or layer them under a flannel for added dimension.

Rock Fishnets

Fishnets can be worn under ripped jeans or skirts, giving a punk-inspired vibe to your look. You can also try fishnet gloves for that authentic emo touch.

Accessorise with Combat Boots and Beanies:

Combat boots are a must-have. Pair them with distressed jeans or a skirt for an edgier look. A black beanie adds a casual, yet cool, feel to the outfit, while staying true to the emo aesthetic.

Experiment with Fingerless Gloves and ‘Weird’ Jewellery

Spiderweb or fingerless gloves add an alternative edge to your look. Pair them with accessories like choker necklaces or unusual pendants to bring out the emotional and creative aspects of the style.

Don’t Forget Your Scary Purse

Add a spooky element to your outfit with a “scary” purse. Opt for one with designs like skulls, spiders, or other Halloween-esque elements to complete your emo look.

Let Music Influence Your Style

Emo is deeply rooted in music. Make vinyl records and headphones part of your style. Carrying a band-inspired tote or incorporating elements that reflect your musical preferences will give your look a personal touch.

Styling emo aesthetics is all about mixing emotion, creativity, and edge. By focusing on the details—from band t-shirts and combat boots to bold accessories—you can perfect the look while staying true to its roots.

Let us know what other Emo styles you may have found that inspire you. Share with us across social media.

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Fashion

7 FASHION TIPS EVERY NIGERIAN GEN Z SHOULD KNOW

By 2 Mins Read

Gen Z embraces streetwear, aesthetics, athleisure, and comfort, all centred around bold and vivid colours. They strive to make statements, express their individuality, freedom, and diversity through their clothing choices. In 2024, Nigerian Gen Zs are also leading the charge for sustainable fashion. Here are some tips on how they are rocking it!

TIPS EVERY NIGERIAN GEN Z SHOULD KNOW

  • Buy Less, Style More!: You don’t need a new outfit every day. Make sure to repeat your favourites and get creative with how you style them.
  • Get Creative with DIY: Personalising your clothes through do-it-yourself projects adds a unique touch to your wardrobe.
  • Be Minimal: Simplicity is key. Removing distracting elements from your look can make a bold statement. Today’s generation understands the environmental impact of fashion and promotes sustainability by embracing minimalism.
  • Thrifting is the New Black: Vintage stores are a treasure trove. Bring back heritage styles and bonus points if you lean into ‘90s fashion!
  • Bend the Gender: It’s 2024, and the idea that certain colours, patterns, or designs belong to a specific gender is outdated. Gen Z fashion thrives on versatility and breaking stereotypes. Don’t be afraid to blur the lines and be bold while doing it within the moral values you hold dear.
  • Accessorise :You could be wearing baggy pants, short shorts, or a tank top and still elevate your look with the right accessories. Gender-neutral jewellery, like knuckle rings, can redefine the functionality and purpose of an outfit.
  • For Brands, Show Your Eco-Friendly Side: It’s not just about the clothes anymore – it’s about the vibe.

Gen Z wants to know that the brands they support are sustainable and environmentally conscious.

Gen Z fashion is experimental, inclusive, daring, and sustainable.Which Gen Z style is your favourite? Let us know!

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Fashion

Effortless Style: Simple Upgrades to Elevate Your Look

By 2 Mins Read

Have you ever wondered why, even though you’re dressed similarly to others, their outfits seem to stand out while you feel less confident? The answer may be a simple upgrade to your look.

Upgrading your appearance doesn’t require a complete wardrobe overhaul. Small changes can make a big difference, helping you look more polished, organized, and confident with minimal effort.

HOW TO ELEVATE OR UPGRADE YOUR LOOK

An upgrade is often just about making slight adjustments or adding the right details to your outfit. These changes can elevate your style and help you stand out effortlessly.

TIPS TO ELEVATE YOUR LOOK

  • Always Tuck In: Tucking in a t-shirt or shirt instantly gives your outfit a smart, polished look. It adds structure and neatness, making you appear more put together.
  • Wear Black: Black is timeless, elegant, and professional. It can be paired with almost any colour, making it a go-to for an instant style upgrade.
  • Add Sunglasses: A great pair of sunglasses adds an element of cool sophistication and can instantly elevate your outfit.
  • Take Care of Your Smile: A bright, confident smile can transform your entire look. Invest in regular dental care—flossing, brushing, and using mouthwash not only keeps your smile fresh but also boosts your confidence.

An outfit upgrade can be influenced by trends, your personal style, or the type of clothing you’re wearing. Understanding your style will help you determine what kind of upgrade suits you best.

What’s your best style upgrade so far, or how would you like to upgrade your current look? Share in the comments!

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Beauty

MUST-HAVE BEAUTY PRODUCTS FOR DAILY USE

By 2 Mins Read

For an ‘IT’ girl, there are beauty essentials that should always be in your purse, ready to be used every day.

These must-haves are crucial for enhancing your look and adding a little razzle-dazzle to your day.

MUST-HAVE BEAUTY ESSENTIALS FOR DAILY USE

Moisturiser is the first and most important item. It hydrates and smoothes your skin, keeping it fresh throughout the day.

Product recommendations:

  • Primer: Prepares your face for makeup, helping it last longer and creating a smooth base.
  • Mascara: Always carry waterproof mascara to enhance your lashes with volume and length.
  • Lipstick/Lip Oil/Lip Gloss: Instantly adds colour to your face. Choose a shade that complements your skin tone.
  • Foundation: Sets the base of your makeup, giving you a flawless and smooth look.
  • Blush: Adds a natural rosy glow to your cheeks for a fresh, healthy appearance.
  • Makeup Remover :Having a makeup remover handy makes it easy to clean up after a long day.
  • Mirror: For quick touch-ups on the go.
  • Hand Cream: Keep your hands moisturised and soft throughout the day.
  • Sanitizer: A daily essential to keep your hands clean and fresh.
  • Perfume :A little spritz keeps you smelling fresh all day.

These beauty essentials help maintain your skin’s radiance and keep you looking your best anytime, anywhere.

Consistency is key for achieving great results!What beauty products do you keep in your purse, and how do you use them? Let us know!

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Blog Posts

HOW TO MAINTAIN STEEZE THIS RAINY SEASON

By 2 Mins Read

The word “steez” (style + ease) is all the rage right now, referring to an effortless, cool way to present yourself. There are plenty of ways to elevate or diminish your steeze, but why would you ever want to lower it, eh fine man/woman? Everyone’s looking for ways to keep their steeze high, no matter the season.Your steeze should NEVER go down a notch! Maintaining maximum steeze is crucial all year round, and right now, it’s the rainy season. Below are essential steps to follow to keep that 100% steeze intact.

MUST-HAVES IN YOUR BAG TO MAINTAIN 100% STEEZE DURING THE RAINY SEASON

Let’s go!

  • Wet Wipes: For a quick freshen-up after getting splashed.
  • Towel: A small towel to dry yourself off when the rain tries to mess with your steeze.
  • Lip Gloss: Keep your lips moisturised and looking fresh.
  • Hair Band: Essential to pull back your hair and avoid the frizz.
  • Moisturiser: The skin tends to get flaky during this season. A good moisturiser keeps it smooth and glowing.
  • Hand Moisturiser: Don’t let the rain dry out your hands!
  • Atomiser: Smelling nice is key, especially when it’s damp outside. Keep a travel-size perfume atomiser handy to stay fresh.
  • Waterproof Bag: Of course, you need a waterproof bag. Don’t let your items get soaked!
  • Umbrella: This one’s a no-brainer. You can’t walk in the rain without it.

When it’s raining, why run? With all these essentials in your bag, there’s no reason for your steeze to drop! Walk confidently through the rain with your 100% steeze untarnished.

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Beauty

WHY SUNSCREEN MATTERS FOR BLACK SKIN.

By 2 Mins Read

The myth goes “black people don’t need Sunscreen, they can go about their day, have a great time, and swim under the sun without sunscreen because they are already black”. THIS IS WRONG. Yes! People of color do have some built-in Sunscreen protection given the amount of melanin which has little Sun Protection Factor (SPF) , depending on how deep the skin tone is. This isn’t enough to protect the skin against damage from UV rays. Truth is darker skin tones are at a higher risk of melanoma which can be fatal in the long run.

WHY USE SUNSCREEN?

The benefits of sunscreen can’t be overemphasized, because of its benefits. It’s benefits include

  • Reduces risk of skin cancer.
  • Help to reduce hyperpigmentation.
  • Some sunscreens moisturizes the skin.
  • Sunscreen contains anti-aging properties (reduces wrinkles).

WHAT TYPE OF SUNSCREEN SHOULD BLACK PEOPLE USE?

It is recommended by Dermatologists for Black People, no matter the skin tone to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30. When outdoors for prolonged periods, it is advised to use SPF of 50 or greater.

WHEN SHOULD BLACK PEOPLE USE SUNSCREEN?

The answer is not far gone. Sunscreen should be used EVERYDAY. No matter weather either raining, sunny, or cloudy days. Most black people face challenges like lack of inclusivity from brands, getting the wrong sunscreen products for their skin tone, and also getting adverse effects from sunscreen because some ingredients are/weren’t included in the Sunscreen.

Most brands are expected to take note of these challenges to do better.

What’s the worst experience you’ve had with a brand’s Sunscreen? And which one do you like and which works for you?Please let us know across our socials.

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How to Use Shea Butter on Your Hair
Beauty

How to Use Shea Butter on Your Hair

By 2 Mins Read

Want to get the most out of shea butter?

It is no longer news to every African that shea butter has huge benefits and can be used for hair, skin and nails.

However, do you know the different ways to apply shea butter in your hair to get the most benefit from it?

In this post, we will dive into different ways to apply shea butter to your hair for the most benefit.

1. As a Leave-In Conditioner

Warm a small amount of shea butter between your palms and apply it to damp hair. This locks in moisture and keeps your hair hydrated all day.

2. For Scalp Treatment

Massage shea butter directly into your scalp. Leave it on for about 30 minutes, then wash it out with your favorite shampoo. This nourishes your scalp and promotes healthy hair growth.

3. To Seal in Moisture

Apply your regular conditioner, then seal it with shea butter to keep your hair super moisturized. Great for curly or coily hair.

4. For Hot Oil Treatment

Mix shea butter with other oils like coconut or olive oil. Warm it up and apply it to your hair, cover your oiled hair with a shower cap, and leave it for about an hour before washing. This deep treatment gives your hair a hydration boost.

Read: Benefits of Shea Butter for Your Hair

Fun Facts About Shea Butter

1. Shea butter has been a beauty secret for thousands of years.

2. Besides hair, you can use shea butter on your skin, and lips, and even to heal minor cuts and burns.

3. Shea trees help fight deforestation in West Africa, making shea butter good for the environment.

Shea butter is a natural, affordable way to keep your hair looking and feeling its best.

Whether you’re battling dryness, frizz, or damage, shea butter can help you achieve the hair of your dreams. It’s simple to use, and the results are amazing.

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