So far, 2024 has been a year of celebrity weddings, and I must say that celebrity weddings have always captured the public’s attention. The year has seen some lavish celebrations of nuptials that combined luxury and elegance. These weddings took social media by storm. Nigerian celebrity weddings, from Nollywood stars to musicians, display culture, fashion, and grandeur. These couples often opt for destination weddings, but this year, the story changed; they all had their wedding back home in the most lavishly decorated venues, with the guests in custommade designer outfits. Culture is not left out of these ceremonies as these celebrities infuse traditional elements from their hometown alongside modern-day ceremonies.
On pages 8 through 10, we profile some of these weddings, which set the internet ablaze. I urge you to read it, as it is exciting.
Nude colours are a timeless mainstay in fashion and provide refinement and elegance to any wardrobe. Whether warm tan or light beige, nudes can be styled in various ways, and that’s what our fashion page highlights. See different ways to style nude hues on pages 4 to 5.
Double cleansing is a technique that skincare enthusiasts are starting to use more frequently. The term describes a two-step procedure that thoroughly cleans the skin. If you are unfamiliar with this routine, our beauty pages shed more light on this technique this week. Scroll to pages 12 and 13 for this.
Our movie review page reviews the series The Penguin, and it scores a 9 out of 10. This definitely means it’s a good show, so you have to see it. But before you do, scroll to page 16 to read the review.
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 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.
Photo: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron
6 Ways to FASHION
1 WEAR NUDE COLOURS
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
Neutral hues have established themselves as a timeless mainstay in fashion since they provide refinement and elegance to any wardrobe. Nude hues, whether warm tan, creamy taupe, or light beige, are adaptable and can be styled in various ways to create gorgeous ensembles. These six easy and stylish ways to wear nude hues can keep you looking stylish and sophisticated if you’re eager to add them to your wardrobe but aren’t sure how to style them.
MONOCHROME NUDE OUTFIT
A simple yet sophisticated style can be achieved by dressing solely in nude colours. The key to a monochromatic style is to wear many items in the same colour family but in different shades. For instance, wear light khaki trousers with a beige blouse, then accessorise with nude pumps. Combining various textures is key; consider pairing a knit sweater with suede skirts or a silky top with linen leggings. This keeps your ensemble looking professional and basic while adding depth. A nude monochrome ensemble may work well for both formal and informal settings, offering a polished look that’s simple to pull off.
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NUDE AND DENIM COMBINATION
Denim is a wardrobe essential that looks timeless and wellbalanced when combined with neutral hues. A tan camisole or a nude shirt tucked into a pair of blue jeans is always a good choice. Try pairing a nude crop top with high-waisted jeans for a more carefree look. The denim adds a modern and fresh touch to the nude colour. This combo is perfect for an evening get-together, a casual
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NUDE ACCENTS AND BOLD COLOURS
Incorporating nude accents is the way to go if you’re a colour enthusiast and want to tone them down a little. Vibrant, vivid colours can be complemented without competing with nude accessories like scarves, purses, or shoes. To counterbalance a striking ensemble, you may, for example, wear a bright red dress with nude heels or carry a beige purse. Vibrant looks might benefit from the neutral base that comes with naked hues. Adding a hint of refinement and subtlety without sacrificing the fun factor of vivid colours makes this method ideal for work and play.
LAYERING WITH NUDE OUTERWEAR
Nude outerwear is a great option to give your ensemble more layers and depth. Cardigans, blazers, and nude coats are adaptable outfit components that go well with nearly anything. A white shirt and black jeans with a nude coat on top instantly transform a casual outfit into something more sophisticated and put together. You can wear a nude jacket layered over a printed top or a colourful dress for a sophisticated, fashionable style. The secret is to keep the inside attire quite basic so that the exposed outerwear steals the show. Pieces of nude outerwear are ideal for transitional weather and can elevate any ensemble.
NUDE DRESSES FOR MINIMALIST LOOK
For people who adore a minimalistic style of clothing, nude dresses are an absolute must. Even though they are straightforward, they have a carefree grace that can make you stand out without being overly dramatic. Nude dresses are classy and versatile; they may be worn as a bodycon dress for a night out or as a flowy maxi dress for a daytime occasion. You can accessorise with gold or silver jewellery and a pair of nude sandals or shoes for a stylish look. Nude dresses are easily dressed up or down depending on the setting, making them appropriate for any event, from a formal gathering to a laid-back lunch.
MIXING NUDE WITH WHITE
White and nude colours are a fashion match made in heaven. Because of their simplicity, freshness, and eye-friendliness, both hues create an airy and light outfit. You can pair a nude skirt with a white shirt or a white top with nude jeans. Try experimenting with various textures, such as lace, cotton, or silk, to add extra intrigue. Limit your accessory choices to metallic or nude colours to maintain a refined and gentle style. This combination is perfect for classy and lighthearted occasions such as brunches or outdoor parties.
Beyond just a fad, neutral hues are a wardrobe staple that can be accessorised in a million different ways. There is a method for everyone to include nude in their wardrobe, ranging from monochromatic ensembles and denim pairings to nude accents with vibrant colours and sophisticated layering. Nude colours are a versatile option for any wardrobe because they can mix effortlessly with various shades and styles. With these six ways to wear nude hues, you can look stylish, modern, and effortlessly sophisticated whether you’re striving for a minimalist look or want to balance off vibrant colours.
A GUIDE TO DESIGNING
LUXURY BATHROOMS
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Many people view their personal spaces as extensions of themselves, and the manner of decoration and design reflects their personal style.
From the living room to the kitchen, bedrooms, and even dining rooms, design matters a lot to people and it can be a good way of telling just how a person loves their aesthetics. When it comes to bathrooms, everyone wants a space where they can come in, relax, and enjoy their bath for as long as they want. Creating a luxurious bathroom doesn’t have to drain your bank account. Creativity and good choices allow you to turn your bathroom into a peaceful haven without the high price tags. Here are some budgetfriendly ideas to help you achieve a luxurious look.
Stylish Fixtures
Investing in bathroom fixtures is a good start. These small fixtures you see around can have a big impact on the overall vibe of your bathroom. Remove outdated faucets, showerheads, towel racks, or cabinet handles and replace them with more modern, sleek options that instantly upgrade your space. Look for budget-friendly fixtures for popular styles like matte black, brass, or chrome finishes. Also, make sure to keep them shiny so they last long.
Improve Lightning
Lighting is important in creating a luxurious atmosphere. Don’t rely solely on overhead lighting; that wouldn’t improve the ambience. Adding stylish sconces beside your mirror or putting up a statement pendant light above your bathtub will also be an option to consider. Smart LED strips are also choices to place under cabinets or around mirrors to add a modern touch at a low cost.
A well-designed mirror can be a focal point in any bathroom. If your mirror is old-fashioned, it’s best to replace it with a stylish framed option. Creating a DIY frame for your existing mirror is also a good alternative. Mirrors with unique shapes, like circular or arched designs, give off a more trendy look and add more visual appeal without costing a fortune.
Accessories are an easy way to make your bathroom feel more luxurious. Use stylish trays to organise toiletries, purchase plush towels, and add stylish soap dispensers and containers. Adding a few decorative elements, such as candles, vases, or artwork, can make the space feel more sophisticated.
Adorning your bathroom with a fresh coat of paint can work wonders in transforming the look of your bathing space. Neutral colours like whites, soft greys, or pastels can create a serene and elegant atmosphere that promotes relaxation. Adding an accent wall with wallpaper or a darker paint colour would be good for a more dramatic effect.
CELEBRITY WEDDINGS IN 2024
A CELEBRATION OF LOVE
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Celebrity weddings in Nigeria have always captured the public’s attention and admiration, and the year 2024 has been no different. This year has seen a series of lavish ceremonies that have taken centre stage, combining luxury, tradition, and modern elegance. From high-profile Nollywood stars to influential musicians and media personalities, Nigerian celebrity weddings are a spectacle of fashion, culture, and grand celebrations. Celebrity weddings are known to be marked by destination weddings, both within and outside Nigeria, as stars go for exclusive locations like Lagos, Dubai, and Cape Town. Mesmerising décor, custom-made designer outfits, and an inpouring of A-list guests characterise these events.
As expected, social media has played a huge role, with couples and guests alike sharing behind-the-scenes moments, glamorous outfits, and extravagant venues.
In addition to the luxury, these celebrities still show off Nigerian culture as it remains a key feature, with many celebrities making sure to infuse traditional elements, from the Yoruba, Igbo, or Hausa wedding customs, alongside modern-day ceremonies. The blending of old and new is what creates so much charm and exquisiteness about these weddings, making these weddings not just a personal celebration but a cultural event that captivates the nation. For this week’s cover, we will be highlighting some of the spectacular wedding events that had the nation watching.
Veekee James and Femi Atere
A high-profile socialite in Nigeria, Veekee James is a Nigerian fashion designer, pro makeup artist, and entrepreneur. She is also the creative director of her eponymous fashion brand, Veekee James, and she gained recognition for her stunning and elegant designs. According to Veeke James, she and Femi met through a mutual friend, as Femi was a manager to one of Veekee’s friends. That was the beginning of their attraction, which they slowly built and nurtured until they decided to make a life-long commitment. They dated for almost two years. After a year and some months, they got engaged, and the wedding took almost six months to plan.
The couple wedded traditionally on the 9th of February, and as expected, the event was star-studded as their traditional event was graced by many celebrity guests who came to share in their happy day. The traditional event was as colourful as can be. Veekee James looked stunning in the different custom-made traditional
attires which had distinctive designs. With the colours of the day being Green, the guests at Veekee James did their homework as they stepped out looking fabulous in their different unique designs for their attires.
On the 10th of February, 2024, Veekee James and her partner, Femi Atere were joined in Holy Matrimony at the Harvesters International Christian Centre by Bolaji Idowu.
It’s safe to say that Veekee James outdid herself as she walked down the aisle in an exquisite $30,000 wedding gown. A custommade lace designer wedding gown, it was dripping in diamonds and pearls with a long flowing veil that made her look so divine as she walked up to her husband.
Some big names to grace the event included Nancy Isime, Toke Makinwa, Eniola Adeoluwa, and so much more. Even before the main event, the couple had Nigerians talking about it for weeks, and their magnificent wedding just made the buzz around the couple even louder.
Kunle Remi and Boluwatiwi
Kunle Remi, a renowned Nigerian actor, tied the knot with his partner, Boluwatiwi, in a stunning traditional and white wedding ceremony. The traditional wedding took place on Friday, and the white wedding occurred on Saturday in Lagos State. The couple wore breathtaking outfits, with Kunle Remi donning a white Agbada and Boluwatiwi wearing a beautiful white wedding gown. The wedding was attended by several celebrities, including Bimbo Ademoye, Bisola Aiyeola,
Adeyemi Okanlawon, Layi Wasabi, and Nnadi Akah, among others.
The groom’s men wore white Agbada with wine caps and colourful accessories, while the bridesmaids wore beautiful outfits. The wedding was a grand celebration, marked by an overwhelming sense of joy and laughter, shared among family and friends. Guests were resplendent in colourful attire that beautifully reflected the rich Yoruba heritage of the couple. The wedding was a fusion of culture and glamour, with the couple exchanging traditional wedding vows and later exchanging their vows in a beautiful white wedding ceremony. The atmosphere was electric, with music and dance filling the air. The couple’s love and commitment to each other were palpable, and their happiness was infectious. The wedding was a testament to the power of love and the importance of celebrating milestones with loved ones. With its perfect blend of tradition and modernity, Kunle Remi’s wedding was truly a memorable event.
Sharon Ooja and Ugo Nwoke
The ever-beautiful Nollywood actress Sharon Ooja got married to her husband, Ugo Nwoke, in a beautiful traditional and white wedding ceremony. The traditional wedding took place on Thursday, June 27, in Abuja, while the white wedding took place on Saturday, June 29, at the same venue.
The traditional wedding was a colourful celebration of the couple’s love and commitment to each other. Sharon Ooja looked stunning in her traditional attire, accompanied by her friends and family. The white wedding was a grand affair, with many Nollywood celebrities in attendance, including Funke Akindele, Bisola Aiyeola, Jemima Osunde, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, and Hilda Baci. Sharon Ooja’s bridesmaids, including Jemima Osunde, Bisola Aiyeola, and Ini Dima-Okojie, looked gorgeous in their emerald green dresses. The wedding venue was adorned with opulent decorations, featuring floral arrangements, elegant lighting, and lavish table settings.
The couple’s love story is a beautiful one, with Sharon Ooja revealing that they dated for only two and a half months before getting engaged. Their wedding was a celebration of their love and commitment to each other, and it was clear that they were meant to be together.
Davido and Chioma
#Chivido, a union that had the country and the internet as a whole talking, and possibly the biggest of the year so far. Davido and his partner Chioma a.k.a Chef Chi had people eager to witness how this glamorous event would turn out.
Undeniably one of Africa’s greatest and a global superstar, Davido and Chioma Rowland, his longtime partner, recently jumped the broom in a beautiful wedding ceremony.
The wedding was a celebration of their love and commitment to each other, and it was clear that they were meant to be together.
The couple’s journey to the altar was not without its challenges. They lost their son, Ifeanyi, in a tragic accident in 2022, and Davido has been involved in cheating scandals in the past. However, their love for each other has endured, and they finally got married in a private ceremony in 2023.
The wedding was a grand affair, with many celebrities and dignitaries in attendance.
The event was practically earth-shattering, with the venue, Harbour Point Event Centre, buzzing with anticipation. Davido’s dramatic entry, where he stood in his car with the upper part of his body through the vehicle’s sunroof, accepting the songs and shouts of his fans, was indeed a highlight of the event.
The couple’s love was palpable throughout the
ceremony, with Chioma kneeling down to offer Davido a drink as part of the traditional rites. Davido also shared the vision his father once shared with him, where he would end his music career as a gospel singer. The wedding was a celebration of their love and commitment to each other, and it was clear that love conquers all.
Bliss and Marie Wiseborn
Nigerian gospel singer, Moses Bliss took his conjugal vows with his Ghanaian fiancée, Marie Wiseborn, in a stunning white wedding ceremony in Ghana. The couple’s love story is one of true devotion, and their wedding was a celebration of their commitment to each other.
The ceremony took place in Ghana, surrounded by close friends and family, including celebrities like Ghanaian actress Juliet Ibrahim, content creator Enioluwa Adeoluwa, media personality Layole Oyatogun, comedians Real Warri Pikin and Josh2Funny, fashion designer Veekee James, and gospel singers like Nathaniel Bassey, Tope Alabi, Preye Odede, Judikay, Prospa Ochimana, and Apostle Lugeba from Uganda. The venue was decorated with elegance and simplicity, reflecting the new couple’s style. Marie donned a beautiful white gown, while Bliss complemented her look with a white suit accented with a touch of brown.
In a sweet gesture of love, Bliss released an EP titled “Love Testament” just before the wedding, setting a perfect emotional backdrop for their new journey together.
Their love story began with a romantic proposal in London on January 19th, 2024, followed by a civil ceremony in Abuja, Nigeria, on February 27. The celebrations continued with a vibrant traditional ceremony in Accra, Ghana, on February 29.
In 2024, Nigerian celebrity weddings have been a true spectacle, showcasing the glamour and romance of the country’s entertainment industry. From Moses Bliss’s stunning white wedding in Ghana to Davido and Chioma’s highly anticipated nuptials, these celebrity couples brought joy and excitement to their fans. The year has seen a mix of intimate gatherings and grand celebrations, with each wedding reflecting the unique style and personality of the couple. With their love stories unfolding on social media, these Nigerian celebrities inspired their fans and set new standards for romance and commitment. As the year comes to a close, it’s clear that 2024 will be remembered as a year of love, glamour, and celebration in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Moses
A Snack in Time A Recipe For Mexico’s Nachos
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Many people enjoy snacking when doing one activity or another or maybe just relaxing, and despite having a favourite snack, it’s normal for people to want to try something different once in a while, especially something new from a different country or culture. The world has a million delicious snacks, and one of them is the Mexican delight, nachos.
A beloved snack from Mexico, nachos have gained worldwide acceptance for its delicious simplicity and versatility. Nachos are mainly made from a combination of crispy tortilla chips, melted cheese, and flavourful toppings. They can be customised to suit a variety of tastes and occasions. Here is a recipe for authentic Mexican nachos to help you prepare them from the comfort of your home.
Ingredients
• Tortilla chips: Choose good-quality, thick tortilla chips that can support the weight of the toppings.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese works well, but feel free to mix cheeses for added flavour.
• Toppings: Common toppings include diced tomatoes, green pepper, black beans, sliced olives, and green onions.
• Protein: Ground beef, shredded chicken, or beans can be added to make your nachos heartier.
• Guacamole: A mix of 2 ripe avocados, a lime, a diced tomato, salt, and pepper for taste, and your guacamole is set.
• Sour cream
• Salsa
Instructions
• Preheat The Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Layer The Tortilla Chips: Spread a layer of tortilla chips evenly across a large, oven-safe platter or baking sheet.
• Add cheese: Generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the chips.
• Add Toppings: Scatter toppings like green pepper, beans, and olives over the cheese.
• Bake: Place the nachos in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
• Serve: Remove from the oven and add a final layer of fresh toppings, like diced tomatoes and green onions. Serve with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream on the side.
Nachos are the go-to snacks in Mexico, and this delicious treat is the perfect crowd-pleaser as it can be baked however anyone prefers their nachos. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a meal, it’s a fun and delicious way to celebrate Mexican cuisine.
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DOUBLE CLEANSING
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
The first step to having healthy, radiant skin when it comes to skincare is to cleanse your face. Double cleansing is one technique that dermatologists and skincare enthusiasts are starting to use more frequently. Do not worry if you are unfamiliar with this term. This article will provide you with everything you need to know about double cleansing.
WHAT IS DOUBLE CLEANSING?
Double cleansing is a two-step procedure that thoroughly cleanses your skin with two distinct cleansers. To start, use an oil-based cleanser to get rid of any makeup, sunscreen, extra oil, and grime that has accumulated on the skin’s surface over the day. The skin is then cleansed with a water-based solution to eliminate any last bits of dirt, sweat, and pollutants. Double cleansing is like giving your face a good scrubbing to make sure all the debris is gone and your skin is ready for the following steps in your skincare regimen.
BENEFITS OF DOUBLE CLEANSING
1.
4. 2. THOROUGHLY REMOVE MAKEUP AND SUNSCREEN ENHANCES ABSORPTION OF SKINCARE PRODUCTS
For many people, wearing sunscreen and makeup is an integral part of their daily regimen. But it can be difficult to eliminate them entirely in a single cleansing. Sunscreen and leftover makeup can clog pores, resulting in dull skin and outbreaks. In the first step of double cleansing, an oilbased cleanser effectively dissolves these tough layers and ensures all traces are gone. This technique is particularly helpful for people who use waterproof products or wear a lot of makeup.
PREVENTS BREAKOUTS BY REMOVING EXCESS OIL AND DIRT
Sweat, sebum (the natural oil produced by our skin), and debris accumulate on our skin throughout the day. If not cleaned properly, these can combine with dead skin cells and clog pores, resulting in acne, blackheads, and whiteheads. By removing all debris, oil, and pollutants from the skin’s surface, double cleansing helps to avoid these typical skin issues. Your skin looks and feels fresher after using the water-based cleanser in the second phase, which helps to clean the pores more thoroughly.
3.
Other skincare products, including moisturisers, toners, and serums, are usually applied after cleansing. These products may sit on the surface of your skin if it isn’t clean enough to penetrate. Your skin will be completely clean after double cleansing, improving the products’ absorption and enabling your skin to enjoy their full advantages. Your skin is more responsive to the active components in your serums and creams when it is clear of debris and oil, allowing them to function more effectively.
IMPROVES SKIN
Double cleansing regularly can enhance your skin’s general tone and texture. A good cleansing process promotes improved cell turnover in the skin, which helps reveal smoother, more youthful-looking skin beneath the surface. The mild exfoliation that takes place throughout the cleansing procedure can soften rough areas of skin and encourage an evener skin tone. You could observe that your skin becomes softer and more vibrant as time goes on.
Many people, especially those with oily or combination skin, may be concerned about large pores. When debris, oil, and other impurities become lodged in them, your pores may get stretched and appear larger. You can keep these pollutants out of your pores by removing them through double cleansings. Over time, this can help to make your skin appear smoother and more refined by minimising the appearance of big pores.
2. 6.
After washing your face with lukewarm water to remove the oil-based cleanser, dab your skin with a tiny amount of water-based cleanser. Again, gently massage it for approximately a minute, paying particular attention to the areas where you frequently break out or get oily.
Unexpectedly, those with sensitive skin may benefit from double cleansing. You may remove makeup and grime without using abrasive rubbing or scrubbing by first using an oilbased cleanser. As a result, there is less possibility of skin irritation. To keep the skin calm and clean, the second water-based cleanse ensures no oily residue is left behind. Additionally, it keeps skin from drying out and promotes greater hydration—two things sensitive skin types frequently struggle with.
MINIMISES SKIN IRRITATION AND SENSITIVITY RINSE AND PAT DRY
Use lukewarm water to rinse your face completely, then pat dry with a clean towel. A hard facial rub can irritate your skin, so try to avoid doing so.
4. REDUCES THE APPEARANCE OF LARGE PORES RINSE AND FOLLOW WITH A WATER-BASED CLEANSER
3. 1.
For one to two minutes, gently massage the oilbased cleanser into dry skin in circular motions. This will break down makeup, sunscreen, and other oil-based contaminants.
CONTINUE WITH YOUR SKINCARE
If it’s daytime, you can go on to apply your toner, serum, moisturiser, and sunscreen for added moisture retention and skin protection.
Double cleansing is a revolutionary approach for those seeking to attain healthier, more radiant, and clearer skin. When you cleanse your skin completely with two different types of cleansers, you’re offering your skin the best opportunity to breathe, heal, and absorb skincare products. Adding extra cleansing to your skincare routine might be useful whether you have combination, oily, or dry skin. So go ahead and give it a shot and see how your skin responds. 5.
CONCLUSION
WELLNESS
Daily Self-Care Practices
That Improve Physical And Mental Wellness
Movement And Stretching
Sitting for long hours has been proven to be bad for physical and mental health. Although sitting for long may be inevitable due to office work and other factors, taking breaks to include movement in your day is advisable. Be it short walks, yoga, or a quick workout, getting your body active can contribute positively to your physical and emotional well-being.
Mindful Morning Routine
Wellness begins the minute you open your eyes to a new day, so make sure to start your day with intention. You could begin by taking a few moments to meditate, practice deep breathing, or stretch. Whatever it may be, the vital thing is grounding yourself first thing in the morning, as this helps you set a positive tone for the day. Mindfulness not only reduces stress but also fosters clarity and focus.
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Life has always been unpredictable. One can not tell what each day brings or what the situation will be like the next minute. Despite this uncertainty, we all have to make the conscious decision to do our part to keep ourselves healthy and in a good state of mind. Taking care of yourself daily is essential for maintaining physical and mental well-being. Simple self-care practices can profoundly influence your wellness and overall happiness, and many of these habits are easy to infuse into your routine.
Here are a few self-care practices you can imbue into your daily routine.
Digital Detox
In a world where almost everything we do involves a screen, it is crucial to take a break from the digital world occasionally. Spending too much time on digital devices can be overwhelming, especially for the eyes. Set aside time each day to disconnect from technology. You could do this during meals, before bed, or even for an hour in the evening. Disconnecting allows your mind to rest and improves sleep and general relaxation.
Never Skip Breakfast
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but unfortunately, many people are guilty of skipping breakfast almost every day. After having breakfast, there’s a higher chance of improved focus and concentration, especially in children and teenagers. Skipping breakfast can be risky as it could result in low blood sugar levels, leading to difficulties with concentration and mood swings. Make sure to have a protein-filled breakfast every morning to begin your day on a healthy note.
Quality Sleep
After an eventful day, your body needs all the rest it can get to function properly and repair damaged cells. So, ensure that you get enough rest each night by creating a bedtime routine and sticking to it to achieve good sleep hygiene. To create a sleepfriendly atmosphere, dim the lights, limit screen time before bed, and relax with calming activities like reading or listening to soft music.
These simple but powerful self-care practices can improve your daily well-being, so make sure to live healthier and improve your wellness.
1.RECOGNISE THE SIGNS OF BREADCRUMBING
Recognising breadcrumbing happening is the first step towards addressing it. It’s easy to ignore signs because they are frequently subtle. A person who is “too busy” to schedule anything but occasionally messages or calls to keep you waiting is what breadcrumbing appears to be. Despite their frequent compliments and expressions of interest, they never really act on them. It is vital to comprehend that this conduct is a recurring pattern rather than a one-time occurrence. It becomes simpler to acknowledge that you might be getting pushed along instead of making a true connection if you recognise the warning flags. Knowing yourself is the first step in determining what you need and desire from the relationship.
6 Ways to Deal with It
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
Overtime, the phrase “breadcrumbing” in dating has gained popularity. It describes a circumstance in which someone gives you just enough attention to maintain your interest, but not enough to truly commit to you or start a deeper relationship. You can be left wondering where you stand and feeling bewildered and frustrated. A common characteristic of breadcrumbing is a lack of consistency, with mixed signals and irregular communications. It can give you the impression that you’re waiting for something greater, but it never seems to come. Let us show you six ways to deal with breadcrumbing in a relationship.
4. FOCUS ON YOUR SELFWORTH
2.SET CLEAR BOUNDARIES
Every relationship has limits, but they become much more important when dealing with breadcrumbing. The boundaries you set for yourself are meant to safeguard your mental and emotional health. You have to determine what is acceptable to you if someone is only feeding you breadcrumbs. Ask yourself if you are okay with the occasional check-ins or if you want more consistency. Without feeling guilty, express your desires straightforwardly and forcefully. For instance, you can say, “I need more consistency and effort in a relationship, and if that’s not something you’re interested in, I think we should move on.” Setting straight boundaries helps both of you stay out of an emotional power struggle and lets the other person know where you stand.
3. DON’T MAKE EXCUSES FOR THEM
It’s easy to make excuses for someone’s actions when we like them. We might conclude they are overworked, anxious, or unready for a committed relationship. While these statements may be accurate, making too many excuses might lead to a never-ending cycle of optimism and sorrow. Accept their behaviour as it is instead. A meaningful relationship is not something they are interested in if they are not acting in a way that makes you feel loved, appreciated, or important. Understand that you deserve someone who is fully present and stop justifying inconsistent conduct. Remember that actions speak louder than words.
Your self-esteem may suffer and you may begin to doubt your value if you experience breadcrumbing. Remember that using breadcrumbs reveals more about the person using them than it does about you. Take some time to think about who you are and what you deserve from a relationship. Take part in things that bring you joy and confidence, and surround yourself with positive people. Having self-love and self-worth is the best defence against accepting less than what you deserve. When you value who you are, you don’t settle for what others might give you, and you have greater expectations for yourself.
5.COMMUNICATE DIRECTLY AND HONESTLY 6BE PREPARED TO WALK AWAY
Don’t hesitate to confront breadcrumbing when you detect it. Individuals occasionally don’t even realise how their behaviours impact other individuals. Their genuine motives might be revealed and misconceptions can be cleared up with straightforward conversation. Directly question them about the direction of the relationship. An example of what you could say is, “I’ve noticed that our communication is inconsistent, and I’d like to understand what you’re looking for”. They now have the initiative and are compelled to be transparent about their intentions. Honest communication is essential to prevent confusion and ensure everyone is on the same page.
Be ready to leave if you discover that the individual who is breadcrumbing you isn’t going to change or attend to your needs. It may be difficult, particularly if you care deeply for them, but continuing to be in such a circumstance can only make things worse for you in the long term. Walking away is deciding to put yourself first and refusing to accept anything less than what you deserve. Have faith that there exist individuals who will cherish you, be dependable, and be eager to establish a genuine bond. Being content and alone is preferable to being caught up in a neverending cycle of emotional instability and breadcrumbing.
BY BOLUWATIFE
ADESINA
Series Review: The Penguin
2022’s
The Batman was a revelation in many ways. Director Matt Reeves created a moody, intense, previously unseen version of Gotham City. This was a city of a kin to the most seedy cities in our real world. By creating this grounded version of Gotham, he had a task on his hands to make it seem as lived-in as possible, and no character embodied the mangled, twisted mess of a city than Colin Farell’s The Penguin (Oz Cobb by name). Completely unrecognizable in face, voice or gait, his performance in the film was a revelation, and he was instantly one of the most interesting characters in the entire movie.
With this in mind, it was not surprising to hear that this character would be receiving a spin-off show centred around his ascent to power. We needed more Penguin in our lives, and the minds at the newly established DCU (DC Universe, replacing the DC Extended Universe or DCEU) duly obliged and gave the people what they wanted.
The Penguin is simultaneously a character study of Oz Cobb and a record of his ascent to power in Gotham. This is classic noir. Set against a backdrop of a corrupt, waterlogged city (after the events of The Batman), mobsters scheme, plot, kill, and lie as they attempt to lay claim to the city and fill the void left by the death of Carmine Falcone in the film.
Colin Farell gives one of the most impressive performances of his career here. Deformed and unrecognizable beneath a pockmarked and scarred face, bearing the pain of a club foot that requires a brace and which gives him a waddle as he walks – hence the nickname. His grotesque appearance plays to his advantage, either when he’s threatening people with violence, or playing dumb to cover his whip-smart mind. The Penguin is fuelled by personal discontent but driven by a lust for power that lends him the charisma to control events. The world takes one look and underestimates him, while he uses people like chess pieces.
We meet Oz in the aftermath of the death of his boss Carmine Falcone (played by John Turturro in the film ). With Falcone dead, the power gap needs to be filled by his son Alberto… or someone else, as the various
crime families jockey for position over control of the ‘drops’ industry, the drug of choice for Gotham’s underclass.
The surface similarities between The Sopranos and The Penguin are hard to ignore: Both depict rival crime families, betrayals, shifting allegiances, vendettas, and both revolve around a sociopathic mobster capable of horrible violence who’s also an open emotional wound. Like The Sopranos, The Penguin is a psychological drama dressed up in mob clothing: It delivers its pulpy, satisfying thrills alongside its more esoteric, intellectual pleasures.
But the similarities don’t end there: There was always something incisive about The Sopranos – for all its brutality and soapiness, it found humanity in the inhumane and soulfulness in even the most soulless act. Its characters were crude, but the way the show understood them, and presented them to us, was elegant.
The Penguin doesn’t reach the heights of The Sopranos, but it similarly seeks to examine the roots of violence and comes away with some pretty ugly answers—compelling but ugly.
In the end, The Penguin is the tale of a thug who becomes a boss and the sacrifices he all-toowillingly makes along the way. That it succeeds as thoroughly as it does may be surprising, given its provenance as yet another Batman-withoutBatman nugget of Warner’s IP, but the creators’ refusal to coast on what has gone before and their willingness to let Farrell and Milioti dig into their characters so we can all sit back and watch them work with what they’ve unearthed is what makes for greatly satisfying TV.
Rating: 9/10
All episodes watched for review via ShowmaxNG.
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