Skip to main content

Featured

Stress Unplugged: Transformative Strategies for a Balanced Life

 Stress is an unavoidable aspect of modern life, impacting mental and physical health. However, it is possible to manage stress effectively and improve overall well-being with the right strategies. Various approaches, from natural remedies to professional support, can help mitigate the effects of stress. Understanding the role of family dynamics, social media, and personal hobbies can also provide valuable insights into stress management. By exploring these diverse methods, individuals can find personalized solutions that promote a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Recognizing Stress and Its Physical Impact Stress can manifest in various physical symptoms that disrupt your daily routine. Common signs include headaches, often caused by muscle tension or altered blood flow, and muscle tightness in the neck, shoulders, and back as your body gears up to face perceived threats. Additionally, stress may lead to fatigue, leaving you feeling draine...
Read more

CULTURAL BEAUTY: The fattening room!

In many countries, the term "fat" is used as a derogatory term. It is also stereotyped to mean "unattractive" and "lazy." However, not every culture is the same. In some African societies being heavier is a symbol of wealth, status, beauty and power. In countries such as Nigeria and Uganda, many young brides are taken into "fat houses" or "huts" in order to prepare their bodies to be bigger before they marry. During this time frame, the woman is generally required to eat until their bodies are at an acceptable heavier weight. The women are shut off from society and are only allowed minimal movement. This can take several months.They are also taught how to be a wife which includes cooking, cleaning and caring for a future family. It is not until the woman is at an acceptable weight that she is taken back out into society and ready to wed. 

This practice is ancient among tribes such as the Annang, Efik and Hima. Currently, this ancient practice has been condemned by some because of the impact on health. Despite all of the health risks that may occur with gaining an excessive amount of weight, many of these tribes believe that being overweight is beautiful. In fact, those who are not as heavy are not respected as much and the husbands can be seen as not caring for his family properly. Being called skinny is believed to be mean and disrespectful.

One woman commented "When you are fat, it makes you look healthy. People respect you. People honor you. Whenever you go, they say, your husband feed you fine. If you go to a village, people can come to look at you because you are healthy." (BBC News, 2012)

The "fattening room"


ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

RELATED TOPICS:





Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. — Romans 4:8 (KJV)
Email Post