Lifestyle
Unlearning the Relationship Myths We Grew Up With

From childhood to adulthood, we’ve been taught so many ideas about love and relationships—through our parents, religious teachings, cultural norms, and Nollywood. Some of these beliefs are helpful, but many are myths that lead to confusion, pain, and unrealistic expectations. In Nigeria, where love and family are held in high regard, it’s time we start unlearning the relationship myths we grew up with—and replace them with healthier truths.
“True Love Conquers All”
We grew up hearing that as long as you truly love someone, everything would somehow work out. But in reality, love by itself isn’t always enough. You can love someone deeply and still struggle with communication, clashing values, financial stress, or personal growth. Thinking love fixes everything can make you overlook real issues that need to be addressed. Yes, love is the foundation—but it needs honesty, respect, and effort to thrive.
“Marriage Is the Ultimate Goal”
In Nigerian society, Marriage is often seen as a final achievement or prize. Once a woman reaches a certain age, family members start asking, “When are you getting married?” But the truth is, marriage is not the end goal of life. It’s a journey shared with another person, not a final stop. Rushing into marriage to meet expectations or or avoid pressure can lead to unhappy unions. It’s okay to focus on personal growth, build your career, or take time to heal before choosing a life partner.
“You Must Marry Within Your Tribe or Religion”
This myth still persists in many homes. Some families believe love should only happen within your tribe or faith. But love often defies those boundaries. People from different backgrounds can have strong, happy relationships if they share the same values and are willing to respect each other’s differences. While family input is important, your happiness and peace should come first. Love should be about connection, not just culture.
“One Person Must Always Lead”
Traditionally, we’re taught that the man leads while the woman follows. But in today’s world, a relationship should feel like teamwork. Decisions should be made together, with both partners feeling heard. Whether it’s finances, parenting, or life plans, both voices matter. Respect and understanding make relationships stronger—not control.
“Jealousy Means You Care”
Many people mistake jealousy for love. Some believe if their partner isn’t jealous, then they must not care. But jealousy often comes from fear and insecurity, not love. Monitoring phones, interrogating, or arguing over harmless friendships can damage trust. Real love is built on trust, not control. If something is bothering you, have an open conversation instead of jumping to conclusions.
“Stay No Matter What” vs. “Leave at the First Fight”
We’ve often been stuck between two extremes. Some believe you should stay no matter what—even when it’s toxic. Others think that any problem means it’s time to leave. But the truth lies somewhere in between. Not every argument means the relationship should end, and not every relationship should be saved. The key is learning to tell the difference. If the issues are fixable, work through them together. If the relationship becomes harmful, it’s okay to walk away.
How to Unlearn These Myths
Unlearning doesn’t happen overnight. It starts by asking yourself where your beliefs came from and whether they’re still serving you in a healthy way. Talk with people you trust about what you’re discovering. Watch couples who have balanced and honest relationships—not perfect couples, but real, emotionally honest ones. Set clear boundaries for what you want in love, and communicate them with your partner. Listen more. Talk openly. When you both navigate conflict or tough conversations with more care, celebrate those moments.
Love is beautiful—but to truly enjoy it, we must unlearn the myths we’ve been told.
The truth is, every relationship is different. What works for others might not suit you—and that’s perfectly fine.
By letting go of beliefs like “love conquers all” or “marry before you run out of time,” you give yourself a better chance at finding real, lasting happiness. Choose what works for you.
Build a love that fits your heart—not just society’s script.
Lifestyle
Could Side-Sleeping Be Shaping Your Face?

Most people have a go-to sleeping position. For side-sleepers, that comfort might come with a hidden price: subtle changes to the face that last longer than the pillow marks you see at dawn.
The Science Behind “Sleep Wrinkles”
When you sleep on your side, your face presses into the pillow for hours. That repeated pressure can lead to what doctors call sleep wrinkles. Unlike expression lines that follow the path of a smile or frown, these wrinkles form in unusual directions, shaped by the way your skin is compressed against the pillow.
Younger skin usually recovers quickly because collagen and elastic fibres are firm. As the years pass, skin loses some of that flexibility. The result is that marks which once faded by noon can eventually become permanent lines.
Why Your Sleeping Side Matters
Back-sleepers rarely face this issue since their faces barely touch the pillow. Side and stomach sleepers, however, are more exposed. Research shows that people who favour one side often develop more creases or slight sagging on that side of the face.
This does not mean your bone structure is shifting; adult skulls remain fixed. What changes are the skin and soft tissues, which can show subtle differences after years of nightly pressure.
What We Still Don’t Fully Know
The science is clear on the link between pressure and wrinkles, but gaps remain. Most studies have been carried out in Western populations, and less is known about how these effects play out in African or darker skin types. Melanin offers some natural protection, and thicker skin layers can resist wrinkling for longer, yet constant pressure can still leave lasting impressions.
Climate and bedding are also important. In hot countries like Nigeria, heat, sweat and the type of pillow fabric used may influence how much friction the skin endures at night.
How to Reduce the Impact
If you prefer side-sleeping, you do not have to change everything at once. Small adjustments can help:
Try sleeping on your back more often.
If you must sleep on your side, switch sides regularly.
Use silk or satin pillowcases to cut down on friction.
Choose pillows that support the head while reducing facial pressure.
Protect your skin with daily moisturiser and sunscreen, since sun damage combined with sleep pressure can speed up ageing.
The Bottom Line
Side-sleeping can, over time, affect the skin by creating wrinkles or soft-tissue changes, but it will not alter your bone structure. The effect is subtle for many people and becomes more noticeable with age.
In short, your pillow does more than cradle your head. Over the years, it may be quietly shaping your face.
Sex & Relashionships
Can Your Partner’s Scent Actually Reduce Anxiety?

Ever noticed how just catching a whiff of your partner can make a stressful day feel a little lighter? That comforting smell isn’t just in your head; science suggests it can have real calming effects.
Research indicates that familiar scents, like your partner’s perfume, cologne, or natural body odor, may trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone linked to bonding and relaxation. Simply hugging your partner, snuggling, or keeping a worn T-shirt nearby can help you feel calmer after a tense day.
Our brains are wired to connect smells with memories and emotions. The olfactory system interacts closely with areas of the brain that regulate fear and anxiety, such as the amygdala. That’s why a partner’s scent can give an almost instant sense of comfort and safety.
For couples in long-distance relationships, these effects can be especially valuable. Swapping clothing items or using shared-scented products can create a sense of closeness even when physical hugs aren’t possible. In daily life, this subtle connection can strengthen emotional bonds while easing stress.
Of course, the effect isn’t the same for everyone. Personal preferences, past experiences, and even genetics can influence how soothing a partner’s scent feels. But for many people, a familiar fragrance is a simple, quietly powerful way to feel more relaxed and connected.
Lifestyle
Nigeria’s First Treehouse Restaurant

Port Harcourt just got a dining upgrade, and it is literally above the rest. TreeHouse Afriq, Nigeria’s first treehouse restaurant, offers a one-of-a-kind experience where good food meets fresh air and leafy views.
A Meal with a View
Forget ordinary tables and chairs. Here, you will enjoy your jollof rice, grilled fish, or plantain fritters while perched among branches, with the gentle sway of trees adding a calming soundtrack. It provides a quiet escape from the city’s hustle without leaving it behind.
Modern Flavors, Local Roots
TreeHouse Afriq specializes in Afrofusion cuisine, blending traditional Nigerian flavors with a contemporary twist. Every dish is thoughtfully prepared, and the drinks menu features cocktails that enhance rather than compete with the flavors on your plate. It offers familiar food, served from a fresh perspective.
The Atmosphere Matters
The magic of TreeHouse Afriq goes beyond the food; the setting takes center stage. Open-air seating, soft lighting, and natural greenery create a warm, intimate space perfect for casual dinners, small celebrations, or simply enjoying a quiet evening out.
Setting a New Standard
While Lagos has its share of treehouse-themed spots, TreeHouse Afriq stands as the first in Port Harcourt to bring this concept to life fully. It reflects how Nigerian dining is evolving, offering experiences that extend beyond food and appealing to both locals and visitors seeking something memorable.
Plan Your Visit
Located at No. 1A Bank Road, Old GRA, beside the NBA House, TreeHouse Afriq is easy to find and impossible to forget. Whether you are a local resident or just visiting, a meal here promises an experience that will linger in memory long after the last bite.
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