Breaking Barriers in Entertainment
EDITOR’S NOTE
Elozonam Ogbolu came into the public’s eye when he contested in the Big Brother Naija show. Since then, he has made a mark in the entertainment industry, advancing significantly, particularly in the movie industry. Ogbolu’s transformation from a reality TV star to a significant force in the creative industry proves his hard work. Elozonam Ogbolu wasn’t always into acting; he was more into his music. It wasn’t until he entered the workforce that he transitioned into acting. “I think it was when I got to school that people told me that I’m such a dramatic person I would do well in acting, but I didn’t think about it then because all I cared about was music at the time, and it was when I got into the workforce that acting became like a thing but there wasn’t a moment I went off in my head that I would like to be an actor. I think acting just sort of found me.” Read our cover story on pages 8 to 10. Don’t forget that you can now scan the QR code on the magazine cover to download the latest issue.
Expressing your style and personality through tailoring is a unique and personal experience. Small details like the lining and fabric can be customised to your taste, making you stand out. Discover how tailoring can elevate your style on pages 4 and 5.
Our décor page offers exciting suggestions to transform your kitchen into a visually stunning space. Get ready to be inspired on page 11.
As always, you can click on the instructions below the QR codes on page 16 to download our playlist.
Until next week, enjoy your read.
@onahluciaa + 2349088352246
12 04-05 FASHION
Wanderlust Wonders 6 Must-Visit Bucket List Destinations in Africa 07 The Power of The Perfect Fit
Elozonam Ogbolu Breaking Barriers in Entertainment
FITNESS BEAUTY
Boluwatife Adesina is a media writer and the helmer of the Downtown Review page. He’s probably in a cinema near you. Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron
Skincare Tips For Men Addressing 6 Common Misconceptions
Place: Day One 8-10 11 15 16 13 14 REVIEW DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL
Home Designs Elevating Your Kitchen Area
DOWNTOWN ZODIAC
Fitness Guide on Healing Gentle Exercises For Recovery
Astrological Movements The Deep Waters of the Cancer Sign
Couples Therapy What it is And How it Can Help Your Relationship
A
AUSTYN OGANNAH
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa
Writer: Johnson Chukwueke
Graphic Design: Olaniyan John ‘Blake’
Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun
Guest Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’
www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown
Odun Ogunbiyi @oddbodandthecity
- Contributing Editor
Odunayo Ogunbiyi is an ex pharmacist with a passion for food and pampering. Writing about her exploits wherever in the world she may find herself is just her way of staying sane in this zany world.
Boluwatife Adesina @bolugramm
- Contributing Writer
Dorcas Akintoye
Dorcas Akintoye is a dedicated writer with more than 2 years prolific experience in writing articles ranging from food, entertainment, fashion and beauty. She has a National Diploma in Mass Communication from Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin. She loves writing, listening to music and playing scrabble. She is a highly-skilled, enthusiastic, selfmotivated professional writer.
Splendid
The Power of The Perfect Fit
Why Tailoring is Worth it
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
When it comes to personal style, what you wear greatly influences how you express yourself to the outside world. Even though off-the-rack apparel is convenient, it sometimes doesn’t have the elegant fit that can make an impression on how you look. Here’s where tailoring becomes important. Purchasing fitted clothes will change your wardrobe and give you more self-assurance. This article will explore six ways that tailoring makes your style stand out.
1. ENHANCED COMFORT PERFECT FIT FOR YOUR UNIQUE BODY
Tailored clothing considers the uniqueness of each physique. Since nobody is ever properly fitted in an off-the-rack garment, it is designed to fit a typical size. A tailor adjusts clothes to your exact measurements, making sure the fit accentuates the contours of your body. A wellfitting shirt can emphasise your shoulders, and properly hemmed pants can make your legs appear longer.
2.
Being comfortable in your clothes is essential to feeling confident and at ease. Wearing clothing that is too small or too tight can be uncomfortable and possibly impact your posture. To solve these problems, tailors make sure that your clothes fit properly—not too tight or too loose. Thanks to this improved fit, you feel more at ease in any setting, whether it’s a formal function or a casual outing.
3. IMPROVED DURABILITY
Custom-made garments typically have a longer lifespan than store-bought clothing. When a garment fits properly, the chance of rips and wear decreases since there is less strain on the fabric and seams. To further increase the clothing’s durability, several tailors also employ premium materials. Investing in tailored clothing that can withstand repeated washings and wear can provide more value for your money.
4. TIMELESS STYLE
Despite changing fashion trends, a well-tailored piece of clothing never goes out of style. Timeless items such as a well-fitting dress or a fitted suit stay fashionable year after year. Tailoring lets you put together a classic wardrobe with well-tailored clothes that work for various settings, . This adaptability guarantees that, despite shifting fashion trends, you’ll always have something appropriate and fashionable to wear.
5. PERSONAL EXPRESSION
Your style and personality can be expressed through tailoring. Depending on your tastes, you can alter small features like the linings, buttons, and fabric. You can design clothes with tailoring that expresses your style, whether you like a sleek, modern appearance or a more traditional, classic one. Your outfit will make a statement and help you stand out thanks to this customisation.
FASHION
6. BOOSTED CONFIDENCE
You can feel so much more confident when you wear clothes that fit and look amazing. One’s mannerisms and self-assurance reflect when they believe they appear their finest. Whether in professional settings, social events, or casual events, wearing a welltailored attire always helps you make a good impression. Given that people are drawn to those who radiate confidence, this improved confidence can open new opportunities and doors.
CONCLUSION
More than just a wardrobe modification, tailoring is an investment in your style and general well-being. Tailored clothing offers many advantages, including better durability, timeless style, and the ideal fit and comfort. It’s a valuable addition to anyone’s wardrobe because it greatly increases confidence and promotes personal expression. The next time you think about buying new clothes, remember the importance of well-fitting clothing and why tailoring is worth it.
Page
550, 000
Double Spread Half Page N1, 200, 000
10X6 N700, 000
10X5 N650, 000
10X4 N600, 000
10X3 N500, 000
9X6 N440, 000
9X5 N395, 000
9X4 N335, 000
9X3 N310, 000
8X6 N410, 000
8X5 N380, 000
7X5 N320, 000
7X4 N315, 000
6X5 N280, 000
6X3 N145, 000
6X2 N85, 000
5X2 N70, 000
4X4 N160, 000
4X3 N95, 000
4X2 N65, 000
3X3 N60, 000
3X2 N50, 000
2X2 N30, 000
2X1 N15, 000
1X1 N7, 000
000 9X4 N380, 000
WANDERLUST WONDERS
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
Africa, the birthplace of civilisation, never fails to astound visitors with its diversity, deep history, and stunning landscapes. For the adventurous traveller, Africa offers a range of must-see locations, such as stunning deserts, lush rainforests, vibrant cities, and remote tribal communities. Set out on a voyage of a lifetime as we reveal six must-see locations that will ignite your wanderlust and astound you.
2.VICTORIA FALLS, BORDER BETWEEN ZAMBIA AND ZIMBABWE
1. SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK, TANZANIA
For a glimpse of the wild, go to Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Watch how millions of animals battle crocodile-infested rivers and predators on their annual journey to find greener pastures. This migration includes the majestic zebra and wildebeest. The huge savannahs and recognisable acacia trees provide an outstanding setting for the African wildlife extravaganza.
6 Must-Visit Bucket List Destinations in Africa
3.PYRAMIDS OF GIZA, EGYPT
Time travel to the era of Pharaohs and the wonders of antiquity. As a lasting example of human creativity, the Giza Pyramids stand tall. Let the mysterious Sphinx protect your voyage through history as you marvel at the great pyramid, the only remaining example of an ancient marvel.
4.MAASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE, KENYA
Enter the Maasai Mara, a wildlife sanctuary home to the “Big Five” and a variety of other animals. See giraffes, elephants, cheetahs, and lions prospering in their natural habitat. Don’t miss the chance to converse with the Maasai tribe, renowned for their lively culture and historical ties with the land.
5.TABLE MOUNTAIN, SOUTH AFRICA
Table Mountain is a towering mountain that guards the city and the sea from its vantage point in the middle of Cape Town. For breathtaking panoramic views, take a cable car or hike to the summit. The mountain’s silhouette against the setting sun is stunning to behold.
The “Smoke That Thunders” - Victoria Falls - will cover you in its mist, so be prepared. Its descent into the Zambezi River, one of the world’s most majestic waterfalls, creates a deafening show of unadulterated natural power. Embark on a river boat for a personal encounter with the fall’s splendour, or take a thrilling helicopter trip to catch the falls from above.
CONCLUSION
6.CAPE WINELANDS, SOUTH AFRICA
The Cape Winelands in South Africa call to those who appreciate good wine and delectable cuisine. Surrounded by gorgeous vineyards, this area is a sanctuary for wine enthusiasts. Enjoy tasty cuisine combined with top-notch wines at lovely estates for a unique gourmet experience amidst picturesque vistas.
Africa is a region that entices travellers with its diversity of civilisations, incredible animals, and unmatched natural beauty. These six places on Africa’s must-see bucket list are the tip of the iceberg. Whether you are looking for close encounters with wildlife, historic wonders, or breathtaking landscapes, Africa provides a captivating tapestry of experiences that will make an everlasting impression on your soul. Prepare for an exciting adventure across the centre of this gorgeous continent by packing your baggage now. The wonders of Africa await.
ELOZONAM OGBOLU
Breaking Barriers in Entertainment
Withcreatives breaking boundaries and attaining unprecedented success, Nigeria’s entertainment sector is experiencing a renaissance. Nigerian artists are leaving a mark on the world stage with everything from award-winning movies to chart-topping music hits. In addition to winning people over, they are reinventing what it means to be a storyteller in the modern era. These creatives are shattering boundaries and establishing new benchmarks for greatness with their unwavering determination and extraordinary talent.
Leading this movement is Elozonam Ogbolu. He originally came to the public’s attention when he appeared as a contestant on the Big Brother Naija show, where his charisma and talent shone through. Since then, Elozonam has advanced significantly in the entertainment industry, particularly in filmmaking. So far, he has produced his own songs, taken on challenging roles, and produced captivating content that has won over many fans. His transformation from being a reality TV star to a major force in the creative industry is evidence of his commitment and foresight. Known for his captivating performances and inventive content, he has gained a reputation as a renowned personality. In this interview with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Dorcas Akintoye, Elozonam Ogbolu opens up about his journey and his challenges. He shares his creative process, his career’s evolution, and insights on the future of Nigerian entertainment.
What first sparked your interest in acting and music? Was there a particular moment or influence that set you on the path?
I can’t pinpoint a particular moment that did this. I just know that it was a combination of things my brothers and I did while growing up. We were learning how to do the arts as hobbies, making music, watching a lot of TV, a lot of movies and so on. We were exposed to pop culture at a very early age, and we were given a chance to play around with it, you know, in terms of making music and everything. I think it was when I got to school that people told me that I’m such a dramatic person I would do well in acting, but I didn’t think about it then because all I cared about was music at the time, and it was when I got into the workforce that acting became like a thing but there wasn’t a moment I went off in my head that I would like to be an actor. I think acting just sort of found me.
“I think my challenges with the music industry would have to be my kind of music versus what the Nigerian market requires or needs, so that’s my challenge. There’s a lot of money that has to go into gaining exposure, and there’s the music business of things, which is different from the art of music.”
What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the Nigerian entertainment industry today?
I think the entertainment industry is very broad, so the music and movie industries both have their struggles, and they are very particular to each other. For instance, the music industry will take your money before it gives back, whereas in the movie industry, if you know what you’re doing and you have the right funding or even just a little money to start, you can start making some money right off the bat if you know what you’re doing. But the music industry would take from you because you would have to nurture your talent, grow a fan base, get popular, and work on exposing yourself. I think my challenges with the music industry would have to be my kind of music versus what the Nigerian market requires or needs, so that’s my challenge. There’s a lot of money that has to go into gaining exposure, and there’s the music business of things, which is different from the art of music. So I feel like a lot of artists go into music without the knowledge of the business of music, and that is where they set themselves up for failure because you can have the talent, but if you know nothing about the business of music, there’s only so much you can put yourself. Well, for the entertainment industry and in terms of movies, I think it’s the state of the Nigerian economy that’s dealing with the movie industry because the talents are there, but everything is expensive. Airbnbs to shoot your movies, indoor to outdoor locations, restaurants, and places like that to give the film a whole elevated look are costly; even if you want to shoot on the streets, you would still have to pay. Equipment is expensive, so even before you even think about telling certain types of stories, doing VFX, doing special effects, and everything all your money has gone. So making a blockbuster film like the Americans or Germans or Koreans is very expensive in Nigeria and almost inconceivable. So it’s the Nigerian economy that’s honestly ruining the movie industry.
How do you deal with criticism and feedback? Do you have any strategies or mindsets that help you stay positive and focused?
That one is hard because you have to not care about these things to a degree, and you still have to care because you’re creating content and like building a community, so you have
to care about the people that you are catering to, and you have to also care about their feedback. The problem is that many people don’t know how to give constructive feedback. If you successfully build your community, your community will give you constructive feedback because they’re there for you. So I think it’s just left for you to understand who you’re supposed to listen to and who you’re not supposed to. You shouldn’t listen to people who throw jabs and insults; people who give you constructive feedback are the ones that you should listen to. Every once in a while, it’s okay to check some people who are just bad belle, but other times it’s just best to ignore because the minute you ignore, the very next second you’ve forgotten to be very honest and that’s personally how I handle criticism.
Who are some of your biggest influences in both music and acting and how have they shaped your approach to your craft?
My biggest influence in music would be Pharrell Williams. He has been my biggest influence in making music, right from when I was a teenager. I knew who he was and for people who have known me and my music for a long time, they know that he is my biggest thing because they can hear him in my music. In terms of filmmaking, I would say, Guy Ritchie, he’s a movie director. In terms of acting, I like a lot of Hollywood actors and a few Nollywood actors as well, but I wouldn’t say anyone of them particularly influence the way I act or how I want to portray myself on camera.
How do you navigate the evolving landscape of the music industry, particularly with the rise of digital streaming platforms?
when it comes to making music, and it’s often more expensive for me to produce; I make my music when it comes to the beats and everything, and that’s time-consuming and expensive too because I don’t like writing my music, so I get people to write for me. I tell them what I want to talk about and then I record and then I send it to the mixer to mix, I pay him as well. A lot of money is been spent on creating music that you know that the returns coming back right now are not sure. So I decided to start making music for fun, and then life got real, and I started to focus my efforts on growing something else that I was more passionate about, which is filmmaking. I also realise that in life, you have to pick a struggle, you can do different things, but you have to focus on one thing at a time to properly grow exponentially because if you’re doing one or two or three things at a time, you’ll grow slowly but if you pick your focus and you focus on that thing you’d grow faster. By putting all your energy and resources into that thing, you grow faster, and that’s what I realised, so I picked one that I was more comfortable with and could do, that I felt like, you know, generated more interest for me, and that was filmmaking and I decided to stay there.
Can you discuss the importance of networking within the entertainment industry and how it has impacted your career?
Networking is great for any industry because you just never know what somebody’s looking for, if somebody’s looking for you as a craftsman, or if you don’t know what you are looking for as an employer. So networking is a great tool to get anywhere in life, to be very honest, which is why I always advise people to take the opportunity to always try to sell themselves whenever they’re out in a social space, anywhere, whether it’s an event or a dinner party. Wherever it is, just let people know what you do and how best you can do it. You never know where your next bread or your next big break will come from.
“Well, I don’t think you have to slip your way through the entertainment industry to actually make it or maybe kiss ass. I don’t think you have to kiss ass in the entertainment industry for you to make it”
As we speak, I am not making music anymore. The last production I put out was in 2022, and I used social media to my advantage because I understood that I wasn’t ready to sync all I had or even all my time, energy, and everything into music. I just used all my social media from Twitter to Instagram to TikTok and Facebook to push my music out there, and so obviously. I was just catering to my community, and I feel like social media is a great way for people to actually make money from their music immediately and also gain a lot of recognition and a whole fan base from the craft.
Why did you decide to stop music?
Music takes a lot out of me to create. I recognise my strengths and weaknesses
What are some of the biggest misconceptions people have about working in the entertainment industry? Well, I don’t think you have to slip your way through the entertainment industry to actually make it or maybe kiss ass. I don’t think you have to kiss ass in the entertainment industry for you to make it. I mean, those things are general misconceptions because, to a degree, there’s no smoke without fire, but I don’t think that must happen to you before you can make it in the entertainment industry.
What impact do you think international collaborations have on the Nigerian entertainment industry?
For music, we’ve seen how Nigerian artist’s collaboration with international artists has exposed Nigerian music and African music generally to the entire world because if the likes of Davido, Wizkid, Burna Boy, weren’t striving to be on the world stage a lot of people will not know about Afrobeats and the amazing energy behind it. So I feel like collaborating with international artists and actors and everything just sheds a lot more light on the fact that Nigeria and Africa as a whole have amazing talents, and we have a rich culture when it comes to entertainment. So I encourage more international collaborations whether it is with Nigerians and other Africans or Nigerians and Africans with the rest of the world.
What steps do you think the Nigerian entertainment industry can take to improve its presence on the global stage?
In terms of music, we’re already doing the best we can to be very honest. Music video directors are doing amazing topnotch work that rivals even international music. We’ve heard how Nigerian music has evolved from the content of the music to how it is to the quality of it , so right now, I think we’re at par with any side of the world when it comes to the quality of our music. So let’s just keep doing our thing we can even surpass. In terms of movies, that’s going to be a little tricky because everything is expensive in Nigeria and until that problem is dealt with, we’re still going to struggle. Even if we put out top-quality movies they won’t be that many of them compared to how Koreans are putting out their series. Every other week, a new Korean film or series is out, and you can see the quality of the work. We cannot be that consistent in Nigeria,
it’s tough because of how expensive everything is. It’s not as if we don’t have the technical knowhow, we have the skills, many filmmakers in Nigeria studied abroad. They learned in the same schools that other Koreans, Americans, and Germans are learning, so the skills and the knowledge have been passed to our Nigerian filmmakers; we just don’t have the facilities or the infrastructure to be able to produce top-quality films because everything is expensive, so until that problem is dealt with then we’re still going to struggle behind.
With your busy schedule, how do you stay grounded and maintain a balance between your professional and personal life? I think it’s about being intentional because my schedule is busy but the good thing is that it is also seasonal, so there are up times and there are down times. So during the down times, I relax and do whatever I like to do, take a break, hang out with friends, party, and engage in selfcare. The good thing about my work is that it’s seasonal, so there are times that are crazy, and sometimes it’s not crazy at all. There’s just silence, and you can sit in the silence and enjoy it.
HOME DESIGNS
Elevating Your Kitchen Area
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Styling is a vital beautification aspect of any building, be it an office, an event centre, or a school; we all want the most appealing design there is. The very same can be said about our homes. As individuals, as much as we all have unique preferences and tastes, one thing is sure: we want every room in our homes to be beautifully styled, and one of these critical places is the kitchen. Considered to be the heart of the house, where culinary magic happens, your kitchen’s designs can transform your kitchen space into a visually stunning area.
SUBWAY TILES
A classic and elegant choice for many homes, these timeless kitchen tiles are loved for their vintage and classy appeal. Subway tiles are shaped rectangularly and typically laid in brick patterns. One significant advantage is just how versatile they are. If you are a fan of traditional or modernised kitchens, subway tiles blend smoothly into both kitchen designs. You could opt for the classical white coloured tiles, or if you want a bit more colour, it’s also available in other shades.
Making a bold statement in your kitchen should be considered, and one of the best ways of doing this is with Chevron flooring. This stylish pattern adds a sense of movement with its V-shaped design and adds more sophistication to the room with an appealing visual style, making it an exemplary choice for kitchen floors. It comes in hardwood, lamination, or, if you prefer, just tiles.
MOROCCAN TILES
If you like walking into a room and being welcomed with colourful patterns, then Moroccan tiles are just the thing for you. You may decide to use it for your countertop or the walls; either way, Moroccan tiles add a bit of rich cultural flair to your space. From intricate mosaics to bold geometric designs, you can choose from an array of mesmerising patterns.
GEOMETRIC WALLPAPER
Style up your kitchen with geometric wallpapers and enjoy the beauty it brings with its bold colour combinations, sleek lines, and modern allure. These wallpapers come in different patterns to keep up with contemporary trends, and if you prefer a more classic look, they’re also available to you.
FLORAL FRESHNESS
If you love nature and would like to incorporate greenery into the aesthetics of your kitchen, then feel free to bring a bit of nature to your kitchen. Add potted herbs on windowsills or countertops, or hang a row of cascading plants above the sink for a touch of natural beauty.
Keep in mind that your kitchen is your canvas. Unleash the artist within you and show your creativity. With these captivating styles for your kitchen, you are guaranteed to transform it into a beautiful and inviting space.
CHEVRON FLOORING
BEAUTY
MYTH
2
MYTH
1
SKINCARE IS ONLY FOR WOMEN
A common misconception is that skincare is exclusively a feminine pursuit. This is untrue. Regardless of gender, one’s skin requires care as it is the largest organ in the body. Men have unique skincare needs, such as greasy skin and discomfort after shaving, which require careful consideration. Your skin can remain young and healthy by using simple products like moisturisers, cleansers, and sunscreen.
Many men think that washing their face with soap and water is enough. Even though this could clear away surface debris, it might also deplete your skin’s natural oils, which can cause irritation and dryness. The skin on the face is more sensitive than the rest of the body. Therefore, regular bar soap is too harsh for it. Use a face cleanser made specifically for your skin type. There are various cleansers for dry, sensitive, and oily skin types. Doing this will make you confident that cleansing your face won’t harm it.
MYTH 3
MEN DON’T NEED MOISTURISER
Many men, particularly those with oily skin, believe their skin doesn’t require moisturising. But moisturising is a must for all skin types. Dehydration can cause your skin to try to compensate by producing even more oil. Over time, moisturising can lessen oiliness and help keep the skin in equilibrium. If your skin is oily, opt for a moisturiser that is not too thick or greasy. A richer formula is better for dry skin. You may protect and soothe your skin by using a moisturiser after shaving.
Skincare Tips For Men
Addressing 6 Common Misconceptions
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
More men have started paying attention to skincare in recent years. Still, many myths prevent men from adequately caring for their skin. These misconceptions may result in neglect, inappropriate care, and even skin issues. This article will dispel six common misconceptions about men’s skincare and offer advice on keeping the skin looking great.
MYTH
4
SUNSCREEN IS ONLY FOR SUNNY DAYS
Another widespread misconception is that sunscreen is only required in sunny weather. Even on cloudy days and in the cooler months, UV radiation can harm your skin. Over time, sun exposure can result in sunspots, wrinkles, and a higher chance of developing skin cancer. Wear sunscreen regularly. Regardless of the weather, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day. Use a liberal amount on all exposed skin, and reapply if you plan to spend a lot of time outside.
MYTH 5
SKINCARE PRODUCTS ARE TOO EXPENSIVE
For financial reasons, many men steer clear of skincare products. While some goods are pricey, many equally efficient but more reasonably priced alternatives exist. A few essentials will be enough; you don’t need an entire shelf full of beauty products. Look for well-reviewed, reasonably priced items. Sunscreen, moisturiser, and cleanser are necessities. Additionally, you can simplify your routine and save money by using multipurpose products.
MYTH
6
SKINCARE IS COMPLICATED
For many men, skincare is associated with complexity and time commitment, but in reality, a basic skincare regimen can be quick and easy. A complex routine is not necessary to see improvements.
CONCLUSION
Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated or costly, and it’s not only for ladies. Men can maintain healthy, young skin by dispelling these widespread misconceptions and sticking to a straightforward regimen. Over time, you will reap the rewards if you start with the fundamentals and maintain consistency. Never forget that caring for your skin is crucial to caring for yourself.
FITNESS GUIDE ON HEALING
Gentle Exercises For Recovery W
NECK ROTATIONS AND SHOULDER ROLLS
Whatever level of exercise you’re about to do, it’s important to prepare your body by loosening up. A perfect way to start is by engaging in neck rotations and shoulder rolls. They are simple but effective exercises that relieve tension and improve flexibility and relaxation in the neck, shoulders, and upper back.
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
e often see and hear of patients who have been involved in some accidents or are recovering from ailments but still want to exercise at the gym. This could be a personal decision or something recommended by the medical professional. Recovering from an illness or accident requires a lot of rest and sufficient physical activity. Listening to your body and recharge through sleep is essential, but engaging in gentle exercise routines would also help build your body’s immunity. This fitness guide will point out gentle exercise routines to help you recover.
WATER AEROBICS
This form of treatment is also known as hydrotherapy and is very common with patients with spinal injuries. This routine involves using water and its unique properties, such as buoyancy and resistance, to provide a lowimpact and highly effective workout that can benefit individuals recovering from injuries and surgeries. Aquatic aerobics gives patients a rehabilitation environment for neuromuscular strengthening and decreases muscular pain. Immersing the patient in warm water increases blood circulation and lowers heart rate.
CORE STABILITY EXERCISE
The pelvic tilt is an effective core stability exercise that involves lying on your back with your feet flat on the floor or gym ball. You gently tilt your pelvis upwards, flatten your lower back on the floor, and then release. Do this as much as your body can take.
DEEP BREATHING EXERCISES
This involves laying on your back, knees bent with hands on your abdomen, inhaling deeply through your nose, letting your tummy rise, and then exhaling through pursed lips. This particular breathing exercise is called diaphragmatic breathing.
STATIONARY CYCLING
Also known as indoor cycling or spinning, patients use this form of exercise during recuperation as it’s highly beneficial for their recovery process. It’s a low-impact exercise routine mainly for the well-being of the patient’s heart. Since it’s for a recovering patient, therapists and physicians advise that such exercise is done in an indoor environment that can be adjusted to suit the patient’s needs. Another benefit of this exercise is that it helps to improve joint mobility in patients.
These exercise routines help those looking to get back after an injury or sickness and also double as a guide to beginners seeking gentle exercises to help them blend into the ways of the gym culture. Incorporating these gentle exercises into your recovery routine can help promote healing, reduce discomfort, and improve overall well-being. Remember to listen to your body, start slowly, and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as you progress on your journey to recovery.
Astrological Movements The Deep Waters of the Cancer Sign
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
The season for the fourth zodiac sign is upon us.
That’s right, it’s the Cancer season. A season ruled by the Moon, represented by the Crab and spanning from June 22 to July 22, the Cancer sign is represented by water. It is deeply connected to emotions, intuition, and the essence of nurturing. People born under the Cancer sign are often known for their empathetic nature, strong familial bonds, and tendency to protect those they care about. Without much ado, let’s understand the traits of these Cancer-born individuals and what makes them special.
Emotional Depth And Sensitivity
Cancer individuals are known to possess a natural ability to tune into their own feelings and the emotions of those around them. This empathetic trait allows them to be exceptionally compassionate, offering a comforting presence to friends and family in times of need. However, their heightened sensitivity can also make them prone to mood swings and make them become emotionally vulnerable. This sudden emotional switch makes them retreat into their protective shells to recharge.
Intuition And Loyalty
It is believed that the Moon influences Cancer with a strong sense of intuition. They have an innate ability to read people and situations, often relying on their gut feelings to guide them. This intuitive nature and a rich imagination make Cancerians highly creative. Cancerians also form deep, lasting bonds with their loved ones and are fiercely protective of them. Family is of utmost importance to Cancerians, and they often prioritise the well-being of their relatives and close friends above all else.
Challenges And Growth Areas
Despite their many positive traits, Cancerians face challenges from their intense emotions and need for security. Their sensitivity can lead to overprotectiveness and clinginess, making it difficult for them to let go of people or situations that no longer serve them. This can hinder their ability to move forward. Cancer individuals need to balance their emotional needs with a sense of independence and learn to set healthy boundaries to grow.
ELEMENT: WATER
RULING PLANET: THE MOON
SYMBOL: THE CRAB
FLOWER: WHITE ROSE
BIRTHSTONES: MOONSTONE, EMERALD, RUBY, PEARL.
DATE: JUNE 22ND - JULY 22ND
Cancer zodiac, with its rich emotional landscape and nurturing nature, is a sign that embodies empathy, loyalty, and creativity. Cancerians are intuitive and imaginative, making them skilled at understanding and caring for others. Their adaptability and tenacity allow them to navigate life’s challenges, though they must be mindful of their tendency to cling to the past. By embracing their unique traits and working on their growth areas, Cancer individuals can create a harmonious balance in their lives, enriching the lives of those around them.
Kate Henshaw July 19th
Peter Obi, July 19th
What it is And How it Can Help Your Relationship COUPLES THERAPY
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
Similar to the individuals within them, relationships undergo constant transformation. These adjustments can occasionally result in miscommunications, wounded feelings, and disputes that are hard to work out. Couples counselling can be helpful in this situation. Couples therapy provides a space to enhance your relationship, regardless of whether you’re going through a serious crisis or want to get closer to your partner. We will explore what couples therapy is, including six key benefits it can provide.
WHAT IS COUPLES THERAPY?
In couples therapy, spouses work with a therapist to strengthen their bond. This can entail having focused conversations, picking up new communication techniques, and figuring out how to work together more successfully. Couples therapy aims to build a better and healthier relationship.
1. IMPROVED COMMUNICATION
Learning how to communicate properly is one of the biggest advantages of couples therapy because misunderstandings and poor communication are the root causes of many disagreements. A therapist can teach you more effective ways to communicate your wants and listen to your partner. By doing this, you both will feel heard and understood, and the frequency and intensity of arguments will decrease.
2. ENHANCED EMOTIONAL CONNECTION
Therapy can enhance the emotional level of reconnection. Over time, spouses may drift apart due to various stressors, including the everyday hustle. Therapy sessions offer a safe space to discuss your experiences and feelings to improve mutual understanding and reignite emotional intimacy.
3. CONFLICT RESOLUTION SKILLS
Disagreements arise in all relationships; how you respond to them matters. You learn how to handle arguments positively in couples therapy. You will acquire skills for lowering the intensity of disagreements, identifying points of agreement, and settling disputes amicably. These abilities are crucial to preserving a happy relationship.
4. STRENGTHENED TRUST
Though extremely difficult, therapy can aid in rebuilding trust once it has been broken. A counsellor can help you work through the process of healing and reconstruction after maybe an infidelity scandal or other types of betrayal. Restoring trust requires that you learn how to communicate honestly and openly with one another.
CONCLUSION
5. BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF EACH OTHER
In therapy, you will understand each other’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviours more deeply. Learning your spouse’s underlying hopes and concerns or the reasons behind their reactions to certain things can develop empathy and compassion. This deeper understanding can strengthen your relationship and help you support each other more effectively.
6. RENEWED COMMITMENT
Going through couples counselling can strengthen your bond with each other. By resolving your conflicts and coming up with solutions jointly, you strengthen the idea that you two are committed to your relationship for the long run. This revitalised dedication can offer a strong basis for tackling obstacles in the future as a team.
Couples therapy can help troubled relationships and may also help any couple that wants to strengthen their bond and understanding. Therapy can provide helpful techniques and insights, regardless of your struggles with communication, trust, or just wanting to connect on a deeper level. Keep in mind that asking for assistance shows strength and dedication to your partner. A healthier, happier relationship where both partners feel respected and understood might result from investing in couples therapy.
BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA
A Quiet Place: Day One
Monsters from beyond the stars that destroy anything that makes a sound above a whisper have decimated New York City, rendering it silent within a matter of hours. And before the dust has even settled, Sam (Lupita Nyong’o), faced with the prospect of horrifyingly certain death, has probably the most quintessentially New York reaction ever captured in cinematic history: She’s determined to make it to Harlem for a slice of pizza.
That moment is played for a quick laugh, but writer-director Michael Sarnoski, fresh off the similarly and unexpectedly moving Pig, lets it linger. Sam is serious about the pizza, and we’re invited to find her quest preposterous, but over the next hour or so, the full weight of why the pizza is so important to Sam comes into view, and by then, A Quiet Place: Day One has morphed into a bittersweet tale of what it’s like to genuinely and fully live with a death sentence.
And, no, that’s not as much about the sound-sensitive space monsters as you might think. While Sarnoski is able to mine some harrowing terror out of their arrival, the aliens are the least interesting part of Day One. Sam is dying before they get here. The film opens at the hospice care facility where she’s staying, disgusted by the varying faces of death around her and annoyed by the nurse (Alex Wolff) who constantly prods her to be social. But most of all, she’s disgusted with her tired, embittered self for the way she holds her pain at bay with a steady dose of fentanyl patches while also knowing the end can come quite literally at any minute.
So, while Sam’s survival instincts kick in when the aliens start landing and tearing New York and its population to shreds, there’s an eerie calm that settles over her and the film as a whole in the aftermath, when the streets are silent and sound means death. Nyong’o has a hell of a tightrope to walk here. There’s such futile weariness to Sam as she engages in every aspect of the act of continuing to live, and it threatens to make her a miserable protagonist to follow in the apocalypse. And yet, she also
embodies a certain humanist mindset— that of people who, despite being hopelessly down and out, still share their food with a starving neighbour, give directions to the lost, and find deep wells of gallows humour in the worst possible situations.
At first, it feels like that humor is what puts Sam back on the streets of New York the day after the aliens arrive, looking for pizza with little more than a bag of food and books, her service cat Frodo in tow. What seems like a fool’s errand eventually takes shape as her last purposeful act, one that comes into even sharper contrast when Eric (Joseph Quinn) crosses Sam’s path.
In any other movie, Eric would fall so quickly into cliché, as the frightened, quivering British coward who makes the mistake that gets people killed. But Quinn etches Eric as a poignant, empathetic soul, a man who finds himself in the wrong country at the wrong time for the wrong reasons and clings to Sam as the last frail thread between him and insanity.
The new world doesn’t give the two of them much reason for optimism. Day One is dutifully bound to its horror franchise trappings, and the begrudging requirement to show us something we haven’t seen from the invaders, but at least Sarnoski proves himself a patient, steady hand with the fearsome aspects, bringing more of the subtlety that he brought to Pig into this film in unexpected ways. His vision of a ruined New York quickly moves past the initially 9/11-flavoured terror of the invasion and leans into otherworldly images of an utterly dead and unrecognisable city that quite often recall the uneasy, sorrowful beauty of Steven Spielberg’s War of the Worlds.
But in the end, it’s in the moments between the alien attacks, when it homes in on the very real, diseased spectre of death, that Day One finds its true power. Lonelier, sadder, and ultimately more powerful than A Quiet Place and A Quiet Place Part II, Sarnoski is fascinatingly fixated on people figuring out what life even means, given the chances of it ending at the drop of a dime. Like most of this series’ best action, the big bombastic noise is often a distraction from something far more intimate and, in Day One’s case, something far more existentially beautiful.
Rating:8/10
The Boys began with an intriguing question for our superhero-infused pop culture: what would happen if extraordinary powers were wedded with corruption and corporate greed? Yet that dark, satirical take on the genre has blossomed into TV’s most political drama, a quality even more overtly on display in its much-anticipated fourth season.
Put more simply, don’t let the masks and capes fool you. The fact that the latest episodes drop as the US braces for a presidential campaign only magnifies elements that have existed throughout the show’s run on Amazon’s Prime Video, becoming the service’s signature series, including the spinoffs Gen V and The Boys Presents: Diabolical.
The fourth season features the usual conflict between superheroes in the uneasy employ of Vought International and those who oppose them. The former cohort begins with the near-invincible, psychopathic Homelander (Antony Starr), whose Superman-like public persona is carefully manicured to hide those qualities, while the latter take their lead from Billy Butcher (Karl Urban), even if they frequently question his methods.
The Butcher-Homelander standoff is complicated by their battle for the soul of the latter’s biological son, Ryan (Cameron Crovetti), which itself encompasses consideration of the question of nature versus nature.
More than any season before it, the new arc leans into the political realm thanks to the involvement of politician Victoria Neuman (Claudia Doumit) and efforts by Vought and Homelander to impact the political debate.
That includes thinly-veiled references to a group clearly intended to represent QAnon, the American conspiracy-minded movement, and the use of propaganda tactics to manipulate the public and voters. At one point, the characters attend
an event called Truthcon, where a banner that reads
“There are no conspiracies – or coincidences” is prominently flown.
The show also reveals the private disdain of those in (and with) power toward their supporters, a point made in a uniquely The Boys-esque manner.
To punctuate that, there’s a new hero, Firecracker (Valorie Curry), whose political leanings echo Vought News’ conservative commentators (she even gets her own show).
Dispensing with subtlety, series creator Eric Kripke and company have surrounded that satire in violence and excess, qualities that feel organic to this world, where the traditional ideal of heroism is used to obscure brutal realities. Although The Deep (Chace Crawford), an Aquaman-like member of the Vought-backed superhero team known as the Seven, is often a semi-pathetic source of derision, he
sums that mentality up when he comes to the realisation, as he puts it, “Violence is power.”
Inevitably, the new season involves new, unexpected and uneasy alliances, as well as the thorny (and seemingly perennial) issue of finding ways to neutralise Homelander, which hardly feels like a fair fight.
Having earned its reputation as the most gruesome and kinky show on television, “The Boys” grapples with a certain pressure to fulfil those expectations for the faithful. In its totality, the eight-episode season largely manages to clear that bar (or, should one prefer, limbo under it), including a few explosively funny (and not incidentally, grisly) visual gags.
Success has also enabled “The Boys” to play a long game, meaning nobody should expect too much closure from this season when there’s a fifth and final season to come.
From that view, the series might have lost some of its freshness but not its ability to surprise and provoke, peeling back its mask a little further to issue a warning about the danger of brightly coloured fascism, a message clearly intended to echo beyond its world and into ours.
KAYTRANADA; PinkPantheress
Snap My Finger (feat.
Tom Misch - Cinnamon Curls
Hiatus Kaiyote - Everything’s Beautiful
NxWorries; Anderson .Paak; Knxwledge - Daydreaming
Orion Sun - Antidote
Essosa - Waste My Time
L’Impératrice - Fou
NxWorries; Anderson .Paak; Knxwledge; Snoop Dogg;