Not long ago, the phrase “soft life” was often met with side-eyes — as if choosing ease over exhaustion meant you were unserious. But scratch the surface and you’ll find something more deliberate: a refusal to suffer unnecessarily. For many Nigerians, especially young women, the soft life isn’t a fantasy — it’s a boundary.

In a society where overworking is worn like a badge of honour, slowing down is often mistaken for weakness. But choosing a softer path doesn’t mean refusing to work. It means refusing to suffer for the sake of appearances. It means asking: Why must stress be a badge of success?

When someone says they want a soft life, they’re not saying they want to do nothing. They’re saying they want to work without being worked to the ground. To grow without losing themselves in the process. To earn without constantly chasing. That’s not laziness — that’s clarity.

And for women, the message cuts even deeper. You’re expected to work like you don’t have children, parent like you don’t have a job, and smile through all of it. So when a woman says she wants softness, she’s not chasing luxury. She’s asking for room to exist without always performing strength.

Of course, not everyone can afford to quit their job or book a beachside retreat. But softness doesn’t have to be extravagant. Sometimes it means resting without guilt. Turning down obligations that drain you. Cooking because you want to, not because you feel pressured to. It’s in the small choices — choosing stillness instead of hustle when you can, silence over noise, boundaries over burnout.

Soft living isn’t about escape — it’s about intention. It’s the choice to protect your peace in a world that constantly pulls at it. To say, “I deserve ease, too,” even when everything around you says otherwise.

So the next time someone talks about living softly, pause before you dismiss them. They’re not running from life. They’re just choosing not to let it run them over.

Life in Nigeria’s busy cities can sometimes feel like a never-ending race. From juggling work deadlines to family demands, stress often creeps in without warning—making your mind heavy and nights restless. But you don’t always need expensive treatments or fancy products to find relief. Sometimes, the simplest things around you can bring peace back to your day.

Here are some easy, natural ways many Nigerians rely on to calm their minds and regain balance — without breaking the bank or leaving your home.

Breathe Slowly and Clearly

You might be surprised how something so simple can ease your mind. When you feel tension building up, take a moment to focus on your breath. Try this: breathe in slowly through your nose for four seconds, hold for four, then breathe out gently through your mouth for six seconds. Do this a few times, and you’ll notice the tightness in your chest start to loosen. It’s a quick trick you can use anywhere—even in traffic.

Herbal Teas: Comfort in a Cup

Many Nigerian homes have long enjoyed herbal teas for more than just taste—they’re a source of calm. Whether it’s a cup of lemon grass, or mint tea, these drinks help settle your mind and soothe your nerves. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and affordable, making them a go-to after a long day.

Step Outside for a Walk

Even a short walk around your compound or to the nearby park can help clear your head. Moving your body releases natural chemicals that boost your mood and lower stress. In busy cities like Lagos or Abuja, finding a quiet spot may be tricky, but any fresh air and a change of scene work wonders.

Let Music Lift You

Music is part of our soul and spirit. Whether it’s the vibrant beats of Afrobeat, soothing highlife tunes, or soft instrumental melodies, listening to your favourite music can help you relax. Sometimes, just tapping your feet or clapping along is enough to shake off the tension.

Count Your Blessings

Stress often grows when we focus only on what’s going wrong. Try shifting your attention to what’s going right—even small things. Before bed, think of three things you’re thankful for. It could be a tasty meal, a kind word from a friend, or a moment of laughter. This habit helps your mind notice the good amid the daily hustle.

Sleep Well, Feel Better

A good night’s sleep makes handling life’s pressures easier. To prepare for rest, create a calming routine: dim your lights, avoid phones, and sip on a warm cup of ginger. These simple steps tell your body it’s time to unwind and help you sleep deeper.

Talk It Out

Sometimes, sharing your worries with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor eases your burden. Nigerians know the power of community, and opening up reminds you that you’re not alone. If things get tough, seeking advice from a professional is a sign of strength—not weakness.

Stress will always be part of life, but it doesn’t have to weigh you down. By embracing these simple, natural steps, you can find calm and keep moving forward with a lighter heart and clearer mind.

Is tea tree oil really the solution to acne or is it just another skincare trend that is overhyped?
At one point in time, a friend or colleague might have recommended tea tree oil to you during your bad skin days. It has become a common ingredient in most skincare products known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, but the real question is does it genuinely work for acne? Let’s dive in deeper.

Extraction of tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia, a plant native to Australia. The steam distillation process of the leaves is what’s been used for the extraction. It’s is said to have antiviral and anti fungal properties, meaning it is not only used in treating acne but other conditions like toenail fungus, dandruff, athlete’s foot, insect bites etc. Over time, it has been introduced into the skincare world because of its components, which makes it a great choice for treating mild breakouts. Many people have confirmed how it worked for them, saying it helps dry out pimples, reduce redness and all but let’s see what science (and experience) says.

Tea tree oil

Several studies have shown that tea tree oil has the potential in dealing with acne related issues. It has the capacity to fight off Propionibacterium acnes — the bacteria  responsible for breakouts. It has been compared to work effectively just as benzoyl peroxide, a common acne treatment. Although, it may take a few weeks to see noticeable changes, like we all know, consistency is always the key.

Before you rush to a convenience store, note this. Just as our faces are different, so is our skin type. Tea tree oil does not work for everyone. It works best on oily or acne-prone skin and is mostly effective for mild breakouts only. If your skin is really sensitive, dry, or easily irritated, tea tree oil can do more harm than good if not used correctly — especially when applied directly to the skin without dilution.

Carrier oil

It’s best to dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil, remember moderation is key. When shopping for skincare products, look out for cleansers, spot treatments, and toners that contains tea tree as one of the ingredients — and always do a patch test first before using it fully on your face.

Final Thoughts
So what’s the final verdict? Truth, tea tree oil does help with acne related issues, It offers a natural alternative to harsher treatments and works well for some skin types. But if your acne is severe or persistent, it’s best to check in with a dermatologist who can guide you to the right treatment. If you’ve been curious about tea tree oil, go ahead and give it a try — just make sure you’re doing it safely and with realistic expectations.