Living Consciously: Enjoy The Perks of Life Right Now.

With all that might be wrong with Nigeria, there are undeniable perks to living here. For someone who loves the outdoors and staying active, our all-year-round good weather is a privilege not to be taken for granted.

It provides endless opportunities to stay connected with nature, enjoy outdoor activities, and prioritize health without the barriers of extreme cold or snow.

The sun, often harshly criticized for its intensity, is a potent health booster. It’s a natural source of vitamin D, a nutrient that plays a critical role in bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Unlike those in colder climates who need to rely on supplements, Nigerians can soak up their daily dose of vitamin D with just 30 minutes of sun exposure.

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, “vitamin D deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies globally, especially in areas with limited sunlight during winter months.” This means we have an advantage right here at home.

During a long walk last week, I had a moment of gratitude. I realized how fortunate I am to live in a country where I never have to bundle up in heavy clothing just to step outside. No thick jackets, no scarves, no freezing temperatures to contend with. My outdoor fitness experiences are unencumbered by weather extremes.

This wasn’t always the case. When I lived in the UK, I loved many aspects of life there, but my fitness routine stayed confined to the gym. The biting cold made outdoor runs or workouts less appealing. I gave it a try a couple of times, but I quickly retreated indoors, sticking to the treadmill instead of facing the chill.

In contrast, Nigeria’s predictable warm weather has allowed me to fully embrace outdoor activities like jogging, outdoor tennis, and long walks. There’s something about breathing in fresh air, feeling the warmth of the sun, and moving your body in sync with nature that’s truly invigorating. It’s a gift I don’t take lightly.

Another aspect of life I’ve come to appreciate is the season I’m currently in—singleness. In a society where the debate between singlehood and marriage dominates many conversations, it can feel like doomsday is lurking for any woman who reaches a certain age without a spouse or children. But I’ve chosen to embrace my single years as a time of unimaginable freedom and growth.

Being single comes with perks that I’m intentional about enjoying. For starters, I have absolute control over my time. I can spend over 90 minutes every day at the gym or out running without worrying about anyone else’s schedule. My meals are exactly what I want them to be—I can whip up whatever dish I fancy and eat it without a second thought about someone else’s preferences or dietary needs.

Financially, I have autonomy. Every naira I earn is mine to allocate as I see fit, without the obligations of shared expenses or dependents. Travel? It’s as easy as booking a ticket and packing my bag. Sleep? I can enjoy uninterrupted nights, sleeping as long as my body needs.

While I appreciate that marriage and parenthood come with their own joys, they are not my current reality. Rather than longing for a life I don’t yet have, I choose to embrace and savour the perks of the life I do

The point of this reflection is simple: whatever season of life you’re in, there are perks to be enjoyed—if only you would pause long enough to notice them.

Too often, we get caught up in longing for what someone else has that we overlook the blessings right in front of us. Whether it’s the freedom of being single, the comfort of a stable relationship, the quiet of an empty nest, or the chaos of a bustling household, every stage of life comes with its unique advantages.

As author Melody Beattie once said, “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more.”
Practicing gratitude for your current season can be transformative. It shifts your perspective from one of lack to one of abundance, allowing you to see and appreciate the richness of your life as it is right now.

Here are Practical Ways to Enjoy the Perks of Your Season

1. List Your Perks: Take a few minutes each day to write down at least three things you appreciate about your current phase of life. This could be as simple as a peaceful morning routine, the ability to pursue hobbies, or the joy of raising children.
2. Shift Your Focus: Instead of scrolling through social media and comparing yourself to others, focus on your journey. Remind yourself that everyone’s timeline is different, and no one has it all figured out.
3. Maximize Your Freedom: If you’re single, use this time to explore hobbies, travel, or invest in personal development. If you’re married or have children, find joy in shared experiences and the bonds you’re building.
4. Celebrate Small Wins: Whether it’s completing a workout, cooking a delicious meal, or simply taking a moment for yourself, celebrate the small victories that make your life uniquely yours.
5. Stay Present: As Eckhart Tolle wisely said in The Power of Now, “Realize deeply that the present moment is all you ever have. Make the Now the primary focus of your life.” By staying present, you can savour the beauty of today without being consumed by worries about the past or future.

So, whether you’re basking in the year-round sunshine of Nigeria, navigating singlehood, or thriving in any other season, remember this: there are always perks to be enjoyed. The key is to open your eyes, shift your perspective, and actively seek the blessings in your current reality.

As you navigate through life, let gratitude be your anchor. Shift your focus from what’s missing to celebrating what you have. When you fully embrace the season, you’re in, you’ll discover that life holds far more than you ever imagined.

I hope this piece sparks a sense of deep gratitude within you and leaves you feeling inspired.

Thank you for reading.