THEWILL DOWNTOWN June 23, 2024

C O M E D I A N S

EDITOR’S NOTE

APhoto: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

new wave of comedians is redefining humour in Nigeria. As such, the comedy scene is experiencing a transition, and these comedians are taking advantage of social media platforms to promote their work. In addition to being stand-up comedians, these emerging talents are creating skits that address social and everyday issues with a certain twist. These newage comedians have become household names with audiences across the globe via social media. They are also proof that creativity plus digital innovation equals a successful career. These new comedians mark an era of change in the industry as they have redefined comedy.

From “Real Warri Pikin” to “Taaoma”, read about the new-age comedians on pages 8 to 10.

Discover the world of hair accessories, a versatile and creative way to elevate your style for various occasions. From bun covers to hair clips, these accessories come in various sizes and styles, catering to your unique needs. Scroll to pages 4 and 5 to explore the many hair accessories and when to use them.

Our skin is most active in the morning, making it crucial to prepare it for the day’s activities. Antioxidants are our best allies in reducing damage caused by sun exposure, pollution, and stress. The beauty page delves into some significant skincare mistakes to avoid in our morning routine, empowering you to make the best choices for your skin. Find this on page 12.

Our food page, Bon Appetit, shows different ways to incorporate yoghurt into our meals. See page 11.

You can now download the magazine by scanning the QR code on the cover.

Don’t forget that you can also download our playlist by clicking on the instructions below the QR code on page 16.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

@onahluciaa + 2349088352246

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

Morning Skincare Mistakes to Avoid For a Flawless Complexion

Mixing and Matching The Art of Eclectic Decor

Understanding and Developing Emotional Intelligence

6 Ways to Overcome Sexual Compatibility Differences Underrated Global Beauties Exploring

New Age Comedians

Clever Ways to Incorporate Yoghurt into Your Daily Recipes

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

Boluwatife Adesina is a media writer and the helmer of the Downtown Review page. He’s probably in a cinema near you.

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.

6 Must-Have Hair Accessories For Effortless Looks

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Gone are those days when hair accessories were to support the hair so it didn’t get messed up. Nowadays, hair accessories are becoming more and more relevant, thanks to the ever-expanding fashion industry and unique hair styling ideas. One good thing about hair accessories is that they come in different sizes and shapes to cater to whatever need you want to use them for. Hair accessories are very important when completing an outfit for an event. Using the right hair accessory goes a long way in enhancing our overall look and even helping us to create a statement style. This article will list six must-have hair accessories for every occasion.

Hair clips come in various sizes and models most people are familiar with. The two most commonly used types are Bobby pins and claw clips. Bobby pins can be used to hold up some of your hair, most especially if you would be wearing a bun for an event. On the other hand, a claw clip can be used to clip the whole of your hair. They can also be used to deal with the heat for those with long hair. All you have to do is adjust the size according to the thickness of your hair.

2.

1. HAIR TIES HAIR CLIPS

Just like hair clips, hair ties also come in various types, ranging from simple rubber bands to ties with beautiful decorations. People with short or long hair can wear a hair tie, which is also suitable for ladies with long and thick hair. One popular hair tie type is the scrunchie, which is a hair rope covered with cloth. Scrunchies can be used before tying a scarf or wearing a hijab, making your hair look neater.

3. HEADBANDS

One major function of the headband is to hold down the hair so it doesn’t go down the face area. Although these hair accessories are mostly used for casual occasions, there are other headband types that you can use at parties. You can also use a headband when exercising to prevent sweat from getting into your eyes. They also help to give you a sporty look.

4.

5. HEADPIECES BUN COVERS

In contrast to the headband, the headpiece is restricted to specific occasions like marriage proposals and weddings. The wire headpiece is adorned with extra decorations to enhance the appearance of the person wearing it.

Bun covers are a unique hair accessory that ensures your hairdo stands out. When it comes to making a bun, ladies with long hair often complain that their hair gives them a tough time. For ladies who experience this, bun covers serve as a blessing to them. You only have to make your desired hairstyle and attach the bun cover using the stick, and that’s it; you are done. Women of all ages and professions can use hair bun covers; apart from that, they are easy on the pocket.

6.

PONYTAIL HOLDERS AND ELASTICS

Even though ponytail holders and elastics are considered hair accessories for kids, they can also be used by adults. They are great for working women, athletes, and school-going girls. These hair accessories deserve a space in your closet due to their uniqueness and versatility.

CONCLUSION

Hair accessories can completely change your lifestyle and elevate your style statement. Any girl’s wardrobe would be incomplete without these essentials. Hair accessories can significantly change our appearance from plain Jane to a stylish fashionista, whether running errands or going out for a night out with friends. You can effortlessly and confidently pull off any look with this list of the ideal six hair accessories for each occasion.

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UNDERRATED GLOBAL BEAUTIES

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Ina world blessed with so many beautiful destinations on all continents, it’s normal to overlook some places, especially if they haven’t been explored enough. Vienna, the capital city of Austria, stands as one of these many under-explored cities in the world, and it holds many beautiful

sites to admire and experience. From grand palaces and classical music venues to delightful cafes and busy markets, Vienna is a city steeped in rich history, elegant architecture, and lively cultural attractions. In this week’s travel guide, we have an exposè on a few of Vienna’s captivating destinations.

Exploring Vienna

Wiener Staatsoper

Also known as the Vienna State Opera House, this grand location is regarded as one of the world’s opera houses. Visitors can attend opera, ballet, and classical music concerts in the luxurious surroundings of this historical auditorium. It’s one of the esteemed opera houses to have witnessed performances from Richard Wagner, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Richard Strauss. Tourists also get to have an unforgettable experience when they book a guided tour to learn about the opera’s behindthe-scene operations.

Home to the Habsburg emperors in the 18th century, the Schonbrun Palace is one of Vienna’s most iconic landmarks. Renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this exquisite architectural work, together with its elegant garden, is a symbol of power and beauty. Tourists can access the Palace Park and experience the beautiful gardens free of charge during opening hours.

Historic Centre of Vienna (Innere Stadt)

A memorable centre dating back to the Roman ages, the Innere Stadt boasts architectural wonders, lovely squares, and cultural artefacts. It is also home to other landmarks such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, and more. Take a tour of this historical centre, and you are guaranteed to leave feeling both astonished and knowledgeable as you learn more about its history.

Located in the heart of Vienna, the Belvedere Palace is an architectural masterpiece thanks to its Baroque style. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains, it is known to house Prince Eugene of Savior during the summer seasons back in history. Art enthusiasts come from around the world to admire the designs created by renowned artists such as Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, and Claude Monet. If you love art, you are welcome to explore this beauty.

After a day of walking around and feeding your eyes, take some time to feed your tummy with delectable cuisines at Naschmarkt, Vienna’s largest and most popular open market. Visitors can browse through stalls selling fresh products from all around the world.

Keep in mind that this is

offer, so if you are considering

your

just the tip of the iceberg. Vienna has so much more to

visiting, you have a guide to places you could start

tour. Bon Voyage.

Schonbrun Palace and Gardens

Belvedere Palace And Museum

Naschmarkt

NEW AGE COMEDIANS

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

The Nigerian comedy scene has been and is still experiencing a dynamic transition with a new wave of comedians redefining humour in the country. These emerging talents harness the power of social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, which are reaching audiences on a global scale and gaining widespread popularity. In addition to traditional stand-up comedians, these new-age comics are creating short, relatable skits that address everyday issues, social commentary, and cultural facts with a fresh, modern twist.

This new wave of comedians have become household names, known for their unique styles and ability to connect with audiences across different age groups and backgrounds. Their comedic approach, often known by clever sarcasm and humorous storytelling, is an approach that Nigerians relate with deeply, making them entertainers and influential individuals in their fields. This new breed of comedians is not only entertaining but also inspiring a generation, showing how creativity mixed with digital innovation can create a successful career. The rise of these comedians shows a wider shift in the Nigerian entertainment industry, where comedy, with the help of digital exposure, is opening doors for diverse expressions of talent, humour, and cultural representation. As they continue to captivate audiences, the impact of this comedic revolution is felt both locally and globally, showcasing the vibrancy and versatility of Nigerian comedy. Here, we recognise a few of these new-age comedians who are influential in their fields and are a big inspiration for others.

Emmanuel “CrazeClown” Iwueke

Often referred to as the pioneer of the new age of comedy and skit-making, Craze-Clown, also known as “Papa Ade”, is a prominent Nigerian comedian and social media influencer who has had a huge impact on the comedy scene. Born Emmanuel Ogonna Iwueke, Craze-Clown started his career in 2013 while studying medicine in Ukraine. He created and shared short comedic skits on social media. His unique style, which often includes exaggerated characters, expressions, and humourous takes on Nigerian parent behaviours, quickly caught the attention of Nigerians and international audiences, leading to his earning a massive following on platforms like Instagram and YouTube.

One of Craze Clown’s signature characters, Papa Ade, is an over-the-top disciplinarian father figure who is relatable to many Nigerians as his comedic skits portray African-parental discipline. This character and his relatable and hilarious skits propelled him to internet stardom. His content consistently garners millions of views, making him one of the most influential digital comedians in

Nigeria.

In addition to his online success, Craze Clown has spread his wings in his career by venturing into acting and hosting events. He has collaborated with other notable comedians and entertainers, further solidifying his place in the entertainment industry. Despite facing personal challenges, including a near-fatal car accident in 2017, Craze Clown has remained resilient and continues creating content that brings his audience joy.

Craze Clown’s career is an example of how leveraging digital platforms can create new opportunities in entertainment, transforming personal talent into a successful brand. His ability to blend humour with cultural references has made him a beloved figure in Nigerian comedy, and he continues to inspire upcoming comedians with his creativity and perseverance.

Maryam Apaokagi“Taaoma”

Taaoma, born Maryam Apaokagi, is a leading figure in the Nigerian comedy scene, known for her versatile talent and unique style. Her career began in 2015 when she started creating comedy skits on

social media, quickly gaining popularity for her humorous and relatable content.

Taaoma’s rise to fame can be credited to her exceptional ability to portray multiple characters in her skits, most notably a strict African mother figure that has become a signature element of her comedy.

Most of the time, Taaoma’s skits revolve around everyday scenarios in a Nigerian household, capturing the spirit of Nigerian culture and parental dynamics with a comedic twist. Her ability to switch seamlessly between characters, each with distinct personalities and voices, showcases her versatility and creativity. This talent has earned her a massive following on platforms like Instagram and YouTube, where her videos consistently attract millions of views.

In addition to her success on social media, Taaoma has expanded her career by collaborating with various brands and participating in high-profile advertising campaigns. Her influence in the digital space has made her a sought-after brand ambassador, further cementing her status as a prominent figure in Nigerian entertainment.

Despite the challenges that come with being a digital content creator, Taaoma has managed to maintain a consistent output of high-quality content, endearing her to a broad audience. Her ability to infuse humour into everyday life while addressing cultural nuances

has made her a beloved comedian. Taaoma continues to inspire aspiring content creators with her dedication, creativity, and ability to turn ordinary situations into extraordinary comedy.

Sydney “Sydney Talker” Eger

Also known as “The Towel Guy”, Sydney Talker has risen to become a major influence amongst Nigeria’s social media comedians. A comic whose actual name is Sydney Eger, he is a native of Edo State who began his journey in comedy by posting short skits on Instagram and Twitter. He brought in his unique brand of humour, especially known for his expressive facial expressions and hilarious parodies, which quickly captured the attention of online audiences.

Sydney’s rise to fame came with his signature style of merging everyday happenings and trends into his comedy sketches. He showed his ability to find humour in ordinary situations and his skill of

creating viral-worthy content. He quickly expanded his following across various social media platforms.

One of Sydney’s breakthrough moments was his “corona comedy skits” during the COVID-19 lockdown, which garnered widespread attention and shot him to even greater stardom. His comedic timing, relatable content, and ability to connect with his audience made him a favourite among Nigerian youths.

Apart from his online presence, Sydney has ventured into collaborations with other comedians and entertainers, further solidifying his status in the Nigerian entertainment industry. His performances in comedy shows and events have earned him recognition and accolades, establishing him as a prominent figure in the comedy scene.

Sydney’s career has also seen him delve into acting, appearing in web series and comedy films, showcasing his versatility beyond social media. With his infectious energy and commitment to entertaining his audience, Sydney Talker continues to be a force to reckon with in the Nigerian comedy landscape, promising even greater success in the future.

Anita “Real Warri Pikin” Asuoha

Real Warri Pikin, whose real name is Anita Asuoha, has established herself formidable force in the Nigerian comedy industry. Born and raised in Warri, Delta State, her career began as a comedian and social media influencer, gaining attention for her humorous takes on everyday Nigerian life and culture. Her relatable content and unique style quickly resonated with audiences, propelling her to fame.

Anita’s comedic journey started when she began posting skits on social media, portraying a variety of characters that highlight the traits and details of Nigerian society. Her stage name, “Real Warri Pikin,” reflects her

roots and comedic persona, emphasising her authentic connection to her hometown. Her distinct Warri accent and character have become trademarks of her comedy, endearing her to a wide audience.

Beyond social media, Real Warri Pikin’s talent has excelled in mainstream entertainment. She has performed at numerous highprofile comedy shows and events, showcasing her ability to captivate live audiences with her energetic performances. Her versatility extends to acting, where she has featured in several Nollywood movies and television shows, further solidifying her place in the entertainment industry.

Real Warri Pikin’s influence is not limited to comedy and acting. She is also a motivational speaker, often sharing her personal experiences and challenges to inspire others. Her journey from battling depression and financial difficulties to becoming a celebrated comedian is a testament to her resilience and determination.

Through her engaging content and vibrant personality, Real Warri Pikin continues to be a prominent figure in Nigerian comedy. She uses her platform to entertain, educate, and inspire, making her a beloved and influential figure in the industry. Her ability to connect with audiences on a personal level ensures her lasting impact on the comedy scene.

Chukwuemeka “Sabinus” Ejekwu

Chukwuemeka Emmanuel

Ejekwu, popularly known as Sabinus or Mr Funny, has had a rocketing rise to fame in the Nigerian comedy scene.

An indigene of Rivers State, Sabinus began his journey in comedy during his university days at the University of Port Harcourt. His early skits, posted on social media platforms, showcased his talent for creating humorous content that resonates with everyday Nigerian experiences.

Sabinus’ comedic style is characterised by his exaggerated facial expressions, unique character, and witty dialogue. These elements quickly garnered him a significant following on social media, where his skits often go viral. His ability to portray relatable characters and situations has made him a favourite among Nigerian audiences.

The turning point in Sabinus’ career came with his skits featuring the character “Mr. Funny,” a naive and often unlucky person who finds himself in hilarious situations. This character became a signature of his brand, propelling him to

wider recognition. His content often addresses social and economic issues, adding a layer of satire that resonates with a broad audience.

Over time, Sabinus has had an impact that goes beyond just a social media audience. He has performed at numerous comedy shows and events across Nigeria, sharing stages with established comedians and earning accolades for his performances. His talent has also caught the attention of brands, leading to endorsements and collaborations that have expanded his influence.

In addition to his comedic endeavours, Sabinus is known for his humility and connection with his fans. He often engages with his audience through live sessions and interactive posts, maintaining a strong rapport with his followers.

Through his innovative approach to comedy and his relatable content, Sabinus has become a significant figure in Nigerian entertainment. His ability to make people laugh while subtly addressing societal issues ensures his continued relevance and success in the industry. ................................................................................................

The wave of new comedians in Nigeria marks a powerful era of change in the entertainment industry. These talented individuals, leveraging social media platforms, have redefined comedy and spread a message about society with their relatable content. From Sydney Talker’s expressive skits to Taaoma’s unique characters, these comedians have garnered widespread acclaim, reflecting Nigerian audiences’ evolving tastes and preferences. Their ability to turn everyday situations into comedic gold has brought joy and laughter to millions, both locally and internationally. As they continue to innovate and expand their reach, these new comedians are not just entertainers but cultural icons, shaping the future of Nigerian comedy. Their success story is a testament to the power of creativity and resilience, inspiring a new generation of content creators to pursue their passions and make their mark on the world.

Clever Ways to BON

Incorporate Yoghurt

into Your Daily Recipes

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Yoghurt is a pantry essential that can enhance any dish, from adding rich depth to a pan sauce to transforming a plain piece of chicken into a succulent pan-fried main course. Not only can yoghurt be eaten as a light snack on occasion, but it’s also a simple method of boosting the nutritional content of your regular meals. Here are six meals that just a small amount of yoghurt may make healthier and more delicious.

You will love how creamy everything turns out when you make this mac and cheese sauce recipe using yoghurt. If you have cheese, macaroni, and yoghurt in your refrigerator, you can make a version of this oven-baked pasta dish.

1.

Even while parfaits are obviously in the realm of yoghurt, it doesn’t hurt to remind yourself that you can make them as decadent as you like and that you’re still probably better off eating that than a preflavoured, commercial fruit yoghurt. For crunch, a tiny bit of granola and some fresh mint work wonders.

4. GREEK YOGHURT COLESLAW

There are two advantages to using yoghurt instead of mayo in homemade salad dressings and dips. In addition to saving extra calories, you’re swapping out nutrient-void ingredients like mayo for one with the added advantage of probiotics without sacrificing texture. One excellent way to implement the swap is by dressing your coleslaw with yoghurt.

5. GARLIC-YOGURT BAKED CHICKEN

Preparing chicken breasts is easy, but getting them just right is tricky. Being a sensitive protein, they can quickly turn rough when prepared incorrectly or rubbery when marinated in strong acids like lemon juice or vinegar. They don’t have much flavour by themselves. This is why marinating chicken breasts in yoghurt marinade is such a smart idea; no matter how long you leave the marinade on, it will give the otherwise boring chicken a flavour profile and perfect softness.

Another baked product that benefits from yoghurt in the batter is muffins. The yoghurt’s reaction with the baking soda promotes leavening, making your muffins fluffy and airy. The good news is that yoghurt works well in a wide variety of muffin recipes.

CONCLUSION

Yoghurt improves the flavour of many other baked items, so it was only a matter of time before it was added to pizza dough. Simply whisk it together with some selfrising flour, and you will have homemade dough for pizzas, flatbreads, and naans. That’s all there is to making pizza dough using yoghurt.

Remember to read the list of ingredients for the yoghurt you choose and choose the one with the fewest ingredients possible. The fewer additives and preservatives you eat, the better. With the correct yoghurt and recipe, you can make your meals healthier than you ever imagined!

YOGHURT PARFAIT

6. PIZZA DOUGH

2. MAC AND CHEESE

3. MUFFINS

BEAUTY

You need to wash your face in the morning. When we sleep, our faces tend to roll around in the sheet with oils from our hair, dead skin cells from the body, and even bacteria. All of these need to be washed off before we begin the process of applying our morning regimen. By washing our face first, whatever product we use afterwards tends to be more effective.

Morning Skincare Mistakes

to Avoid For a Flawless Complexion

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Just like how a good breakfast gives you the energy and coping ability to get on for the day, your morning routine centres around preparing your skin for battle. Our skin tends to be more active in the morning, so we must prepare it for the day’s activities by using antioxidants and cell energisers to reduce damaging invaders caused by exposure to the sun, smoke, pollution, poor food choices, and stress. Even though there is nothing like a correct skincare routine order, we all still make the mistake of using many products or layering on too many steps in our preparation for the day. In this article, we will explore some substantial skincare mistakes to avoid in our morning routine.

In case you don’t know, layering too many actives like lactic, glycolic, and salicylic is a big skincare mistake, especially when they are applied to your face first thing in the morning. Your morning regimen should include nothing other than antioxidants, Vitamin C, Hyaluronic acid, Ceramides, Niacinamide, Glycerin, and tinted sunscreen.

Morning is the perfect time to scrub because overnight, we’ve loosened up dead skin cells with our glycolic acid or retinol products, so the exfoliation process helps us brush them off. You should give each product you use three to five minutes to fully sink in so your skin can absorb all its benefits.

Antioxidants are important in all aspects of your routine, whether morning or night. Antioxidants can shield your skin during the day from harmful environmental rays and free radicals. When antioxidants are combined properly, they can be very effective. After applying your antioxidant, what can be applied next should be a specialised eye cream for your concerns—dehydration, fine lines, and wrinkles, puffiness, or dark circles.

5.FORGETTING TO MOISTURISE

Skipping your moisturiser will not only make your face feel tight and dry, but it will also cause the other products that you apply to your face to suffer. Even though you might need to adjust your moisturiser if your skin changes with the seasons, it is very important for you to never skip applying it.

Many of us aren’t making the most of this essential product. First of all, most people apply less than half of what is required. You are not receiving the level of sun protection you believe you are if you do not apply a teaspoon of sunscreen to your face each morning. We should be more deliberate about applying sunscreen before we start our day.

Instead of aggravating or unnecessarily treating skin with harsh actives in the morning, use this period to gently cleanse, rejuvenate, and prepare it to fend off environmental stressors. You will undoubtedly attain healthier skin if you are aware of these six skincare mistakes and strive to correct them with reasonable skincare decisions.

Mixing and Matching

The Art of Eclectic Decor

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Combining many elements to produce a unified and distinctive look is the essence of the eclectic décor style. This design allows you to express your individuality by combining furnishings, hues, and textures from different eras and aesthetics. Harmony and balance are essential for creating an effective eclectic design. You can add eclectic décor to your home with the help of these six comprehensive tips.

1. START WITH A NEUTRAL BASE

The secret to balancing the different pieces in an eclectic décor is to start with a neutral base. White, beige, grey, or gentle pastels are examples of neutral hues that can provide a soothing background for your more colourful pieces. This base keeps the room from appearing disorganised by providing a solid foundation. For instance, if your walls are a gentle grey, you may easily add bright art, patterned carpets, and unusual furniture without overpowering the space.

2. BLEND DIFFERENT STYLES

Combining different styles is what makes eclectic décor thrive. You can combine industrial with boho, rustic with glam, or modern with vintage. Finding a theme or element that unites these many styles is crucial. These could be specific shapes, materials, or colour schemes. For example, combine a vintage coffee table and a bohemian rug with your modern sofa. The contrast between the coffee table’s elaborate embellishments and the sofa’s sleek lines will produce an eye-catching and well-coordinated look.

3. INCORPORATE VARIOUS TEXTURES

Texture, especially in eclectic décor, gives any room depth and interest. By combining various textures, you can create a more lively and welcoming atmosphere in your room. Consider combining matte, rough surfaces with glossy, smooth ones. A glass coffee table on a shaggy rug or a leather armchair beside a thick knit throw would look great. These texture contrasts will result in a tactile experience that is visually and physically captivating.

Try out some bright colours and designs without fear. Making a statement is the primary goal of eclectic décor. Patterns like stripes, florals, and geometrics can be combined and matched. Maintaining a harmonious colour scheme is essential. After deciding on one or two prominent hues, add complementing tints. Use solid-coloured pillows in complementary hues, for example, if your sofa has patterns. This will prevent pattern collisions and give the impression that your space was carefully designed.

Even if eclectic design welcomes diversity, harmony and balance must always be maintained. One method to do this is to use symmetry. Put décor and furniture in groups or pairs to get a balanced visual arrangement. For example, you can arrange artwork on a symmetrical gallery wall or set identical lamps on either side of a sofa. This strategy keeps the eclectic mix grounded and prevents the room from appearing disorganised.

6. PERSONALISE WITH ACCESSORIES

Accent pieces that represent your hobbies and life experiences can help you make your home uniquely yours. These could be unique items from flea markets, family treasures, or souvenirs from trips. Without making any major significant modifications to your décor, accessories are a simple way to add personality. Put your collections on display, put your best books on display, or furnish your sitting space with interesting pillows and a soft throw. With these unique touches, your house seems lived-in and genuinely yours.

Understanding and Developing Emotional Intelligence

As humans, two crucial components contribute to a person’s overall capabilities: the Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and Emotional Intelligence (EQ). While IQ measures an individual’s cognitive intelligence and problemsolving abilities, EQ is the ability to recognise, understand, and manage emotions effectively. The ability to carefully and effectively manage one’s emotions counts as a personal skill, and having a high EQ increases the chances of making rational or logical decisions no matter the state of emotions being felt. In this week’s editorial, we have prepared a comprehensive guide on understanding the concept of EQ and why it is a crucial aspect of personal and professional success.

Understanding Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence covers a set of skills that enable individuals to recognise, understand, and manage their own emotions, and not just their own emotions but the emotions of others as well. It’s one thing to understand ourselves, and it’s another thing to be empathic toward other people’s feelings. Emotional intelligence involves self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, social skills, and interpersonal relationships. One can’t hope to understand emotional intelligence without open-mindedness or compassion towards what others feel. You could say self-awareness and empathy are the basics of grasping the concept of EQ.

Developing Emotional Intelligence

Components of EQ

Several combined elements, such as selfawareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills, jointly enable an individual to recognise, understand, and steer emotions in themselves and others. Knowledge of these components helps you understand your own emotions, control your impulses, perceive the needs of others, and build positive relationships with others.

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

While some individuals naturally have a high level of emotional intelligence, others must develop it themselves. To do so, one must reflect on one’s emotions, regulate them, build empathy, and enhance one’s social skills.

Importance of Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence plays a vital role in different aspects of our lives, and this important role helps shape us as individuals. It makes up our personalities and how people view us. Areas of our lives such as personal relationships, professional success, leadership qualities, and general well-being are all dependent on our EQ. Persons with a high EQ are better at managing social interactions, handling stress, and making sound decisions.

Applying Emotional Intelligence

As mentioned earlier, emotional intelligence (EQ) is a personal skill that can be leveraged in different aspects of one’s life. We are talking about applying EQ to be an effective leader and excel in one’s professional career. Individuals with high EQ are more likely to build meaningful and stronger relationships with people they care about. EQ can be applied in every aspect of one’s life to excel.

In conclusion, one needs to understand that the way someone else develops their EQ isn’t going to be the same way you develop yours. We are different people on different journeys; you just need to find what works best for you.

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Just as the name implies, sexual incompatibility is when two partners have differing sexual needs, desires, or preferences. Each partner may enjoy different types of foreplay, fantasies, intensity, or even frequency of sex. It can affect both long-term and new relationships and, in most, serve as a deal breaker. The inability of couples to connect on a sexual level comes with a lot of challenges, which is why couples must be willing to learn how to bridge the gap and meet each other’s sexual needs. This article will explore six ways couples can overcome sexual differences.

1. CREATE A LIST

The very first thing to do is to list your sexual needs and discuss them with your partner. This will make it easier for you both to identify what’s important in your intimate relationship, what you are both willing to work on and what’s hard for you both to improve on. Creating this list goes a long way in highlighting areas of divergence and alignment in your sexual relationship, and most importantly, it helps to lead to a constructive way forward.

It is important to try stepping out of your comfort zone. Try to explore different ways you and your partner can incorporate sexual intimacy and physical intimacy into the relationship. Look out for books, research for different positions you and your partner might be interested in, and work to explore each other’s bodies, and in no time, you will start seeing improvement in your sexual life. The more you and your partner work to explore each other sexuality, the more comfortable and familiar you will become; this will, in return, increase the sexual compatibility between you both.

2. COMMUNICATE IN A SAFE

When discussing with your partner, it is very important for you to pick a space where you both feel comfortable and relaxed. Your living room or backyard deck might be great for this conversation. Just ensure you don’t choose a space or area where past conflicts have occurred.

While addressing sexual incompatibility in your relationship, you need to be open to compromise and flexibility. If your partner is the type with a higher sex drive, you both need to agree on a schedule that you know works for both of you or maybe give them the freedom to masturbate. If your partner happens to be the type that struggles to have the desire to engage in sex as much as you’d like, try to have a discussion with them and decide on what works best for you both.

You and your partner need to communicate the needs and boundaries and how those needs can be honoured to avoid unnecessary pressure. Sex is not mainly vaginalpenile intercourse; there are other ways to reach orgasm, which include non-penetrative sex and outercourse. Some other examples are foreplay, masturbation, and the like. These options allow all needs and boundaries to be met without making both partners feel blamed or ashamed.

Each partner must be committed to improving their sexual compatibility, including having the willingness to try and have a genuine conversation about their insecurities, their desires, and what sex means to them.

Both partners need to be on the same page to increase sexual satisfaction within the relationship.

Teens might be entering those awkward years, but of all demographics, that cohort and their parents should relate the most to Inside Out 2, a wonderfully clever sequel that ages up the concept with one dreaded word: Puberty. Whatever one’s age, there’s much to like in a movie that offers the requisite laughs and sweetness while managing to feel quite profound.

Granted, Pixar,  once a can’t-miss animation powerhouse, has experienced its own awkward stretch since Toy Story 4 five years ago, thanks to some questionable choices (see Onward) and factors beyond its control (the pandemic).

Small wonder that there would be comfort in reaching back to a hit from 2015, one that highlighted Pixar’s inventiveness and its ability to tap into childhood concerns—by bringing to life the conflicting emotions within them—in a way that resonated with adults as well.

Under the stewardship of first-time feature director Kelsey Mann, Inside Out 2 re-introduces Riley (voiced by Kensington Tallman) as a now-teenager, playing hockey, excelling in school and enjoying a sense of self that hinges on thinking of herself as a good person. Joy (Amy

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Poehler) remains the maestro among her various emotions, accentuating the good and pushing the bad into the recesses of her mind.

That equilibrium is instantly thrown for a loop, however, when (in one of several laughout-loud visual gags) the puberty button lights up, unleashing a new group of emotions, including Anxiety (Maya Hawke), Envy (Ayo Edebiri), Shame (Paul Walter Hauser) and Ennui (Adèle Exarchopoulos, who is, naturally, French).

Anxiety leads the newcomers to take over the command centre, telling Joy and the old guard, “Riley’s life is more complex now.” That seems especially true as she’s dealt unexpected news on the verge of arriving at hockey camp, where her performance, she fears, could have implications for her whole middleschool-to-high-school transition.

While there has certainly been no shortage of movies dealing with those delicate coming-of-age years, the central device of Inside Out provides an especially good way of exploring questions about growing up, the desire to fit in and still preserving some sense of the child you were as you mature.

Pixar notably grappled with similar issues in Turning Red, one of its better recent efforts. The film arrived at an inopportune time and lacked the established qualities that would help lure audiences to see it.

On the bright side, even with studios struggling at the box office, there’s evidence of a notterribly-discriminating hunger for kid-friendly fare based on results for The Garfield Movie, with the latest edition of Despicable Me still to come.

Whether Inside Out 2 translates that into the hoped-for commercial success—as last year’s Elemental ultimately did after a disappointing start—the film happily meets the high creative standards and expectations that Pixar has established. Whatever Riley may be going through, there’s nothing particularly complicated about that.

War is often not just one single event but a culmination of events. It’s the final destination on a road littered with little incidents that feed into one larger flashpoint, a crossing of the Rubicon that ends in destruction and death. When House of the Dragon starts its sophomore season on Sunday, June 16, on HBO, the Game of Thrones prequel isn’t quite at this point of no return. But it’s pretty damn close.

Season 2 picks up in the immediate aftermath of the first season finale, which saw the death of Queen Rhaenyra’s (Emma D’Arcy) son Luke at the hands of Prince Aemond Targaryen (Ewan Mitchell), the realm of Westeros is bracing for the impending Targaryen civil war. While the events of the finale painted Aemond’s role in the kinslaying — a cardinal taboo in Westeros — with shades of grey, the rest of the Seven Kingdoms doesn’t see eye-to-eye with his version of events. Thus, there’s a need to choose teams before all hell inevitably breaks loose.

As a quick refresher: There’s Team Black (those who believe Rhaenyra is the rightful heir to the throne), and Team Green (those who back King Aegon II’s claim).

If all of this sounds a little hard to track, well, welcome back to George R.R. Martin’s dense world. That said, the premiere does a good job of refreshing everyone on the stakes and players of this particular era of throne games. It’s a welcome, and perhaps the only, bit of respite in the season, as once a bit of table setting is established, showrunner Ryan Condal and his team send the series into the deep end by kicking off one event after another to stoke the (dragon) fires of war. Across the four episodes provided to critics for review, “House of the Dragon” quickly takes to the sky, and the season becomes a breathlessly exciting and gripping tale. Those who quibbled with the year-spanning gaps between episodes last time around will find none of that epic sprawl, as the events depicted across these episodes unfold over a few short weeks.

While hauntingly well-executed, part of the criticism levelled at the Season 1 finale was the feeling audiences hadn’t spent much time emotionally investing in the youngest generation of Greens and Blacks, making Luke’s death feel a little more inert. In Season 2, House of the Dragon” does a much better job establishing both Rhaenyra and Alicent’s (Olivia Cooke) children. The immediate beneficiaries of this choice are the Green kids — Aegon (Tom Glynn-Carney), Aemond and Helaena (Phia Saban), who are much more involved in the early ongoings of the season as Aegon figures out how to rule and Aemond atones for his choices. It takes a bit more time to dive into the characterizations of Rhaenyra’s children, Jace (Harry Collett) and Baela (Bethany Antonia). Still, they take on active roles as the drums of war ring louder, allowing for much-needed development. There’s also a renewed focus on Mysaira (Sonoya Mizuno),

who felt cast aside and wasted in the latter portions of the previous season.

Considering the air time needed to balance two generations across two families, “House of the Dragon” could easily fall into a rut of tunnel vision. Instead, there’s a welcome development as the series continually finds moments to orient the larger stakes around the daily lives of the Westeros working class. There are a handful of moments throughout these episodes where Condal and crew — including directors Clare Kilner and Geeta Vasant Patel, who return from Season 1, and Game of Thrones stalwart Alan Taylor — take a beat to show off the lives of the “smallfolk.” By going smaller, the world of House of the Dragon feels bigger and more live, especially when bolstered by what looks to be a significant upgrade in the show’s overall production budget; Kilner and Patel’s episodes, in particular, feel much more expansive, alive and vibrant, as the series finds new and exciting nooks and crannies around King’s Landing before expanding beyond the reach of the Iron Throne to locations new and old.

of Lord Corlys (Steve Toussaint), whose arc takes a slight backseat in favour of fleshing out the children before heating back up just before the stretch of provided screeners ran out.

The show also manages to service the older cast, finding gripping arcs for all involved. In particular, D’Arcy and Cooke remain electric and magnetic to behold. Fabien Frankel finds new levels of bastardy in Ser Cirston Cole. Matt Smith’s Daemond remains unhinged, twinged with a sense of melancholy over his brother’s death. Rhys Ifans and Matthew Needham scheme and plot as Otto Hightower and Lord Lards, respectively. The one weak point is that

With so much history established between the Blacks and the Greens throughout last season, House of the Dragon soars even higher this time as it leverages the audience’s past to inform its present. Each little road sign along the metaphorical highway to war is richer, deeper and sadder because of the characters’ relationships with one another. Calling something as tragically rendered as this episode of House of the Dragon fun isn’t quite right— but it is utterly compelling and expertly crafted television.

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