Mildred Xorlali Babantsi

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

LinkedIn

A sea of mourners, admirers, and well-wishers filled Black Star Square in Accra on Saturday, 30 August 2025, for the one-week observation of Ghanaian highlife legend Daddy Lumba.

The atmosphere was steeped in emotion as family, friends, and fellow musicians paid tribute through music, prayers, and heartfelt recollections of the man whose songs defined generations.

The commemoration drew influential figures from across the creative arts and other sectors, underscoring the enormous impact Daddy Lumba had on Ghana’s cultural and social landscape. Born Charles Kwadwo Fosu, the celebrated musician passed away on 8 August 2025 following a prolonged illness, a loss that reverberated throughout the nation and beyond.

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/entertainment/your-weekly-pulse-top-5-entertainment-stories-in-ghana-you-may-have-missed-25-29-august-2025082916090001356">Your Weekly Pulse: Top 5 entertainment stories in Ghana you may have missed (25–29 August)</a>

With a career spanning over four decades, Daddy Lumba’s artistry shaped the trajectory of highlife music, producing countless classics such as Makra Mo that continue to inspire. His unmatched contribution earned him recognition as one of Ghana’s most influential performers, leaving behind a musical heritage that will long endure.

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/entertainment/is-daddy-lumba-a-legend-everything-to-know-about-being-a-legend-2025081311395172822">Is Daddy Lumba a legend? Everything to know about being a legend</a>

The one-week ceremony forms part of a series of events planned to honour his memory. According to family sources, a state-assisted funeral and further commemorative activities will follow in the weeks ahead, ensuring the highlife legend is celebrated with the dignity and reverence befitting his legacy.

Legacy of Daddy Lumba celebrated at solemn one-week observance at Black Star Square

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has announced the detection of 22 new cases of Mpox, pushing the country’s cumulative total to 446 infections as of 25 August 2025.

According to the Service, there have been no additional deaths or hospital admissions, with the national fatality figure still at one.

READ ALSO: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/how-stress-affects-your-sex-drive-2025082913342676699">Ways Stress Affects Your Sex Drive</a>

This update follows the 14 August report, when 37 new cases were confirmed, bringing the tally then to 409. Health experts continue to stress that Mpox spreads mainly through close physical contact with an infected individual. Common symptoms include fever, skin rashes, and swollen lymph nodes.

The GHS is urging the public to maintain strict hygiene practices and to seek immediate medical attention if they experience early signs such as fever, persistent headaches, muscle or body pains, and unusual rashes.

READ ALSO: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/here-are-5-safety-precautions-you-should-take-to-avoid-contracting-mpox-2025072716263853783">Safety precautions you should take to avoid contracting Mpox</a>

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease first identified in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Ghana, the first confirmed cases were reported in June 2022, during a global surge that prompted the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare the outbreak a public health emergency of international concern.

The country recorded its first set of recoveries just a month later, in July 2022, offering some reassurance that early treatment could help limit the spread. Since its arrival, Ghana has seen intermittent flare-ups of the disease. By November 2023, 34 cases had been reported across the country. The situation resurfaced in May 2025, when four new cases were detected in Accra and other regions, although no deaths were recorded.

By the end of May that year, the national tally had risen to 45. A significant spike occurred on 27 July 2025, when Ghana recorded its first Mpox-related death and total infections surged to 257.

READ ALSO: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/entertainment/gta-denies-replacing-akan-and-ewe-greetings-with-ga-inscription-at-nkrumah-memorial-park-2025082812133873220">GTA denies replacing Akan and Ewe greetings with Ga inscription at Nkrumah Memorial Park</a>

Despite these fluctuations, health authorities emphasise that the current situation remains under control. The confirmation of 22 new cases brings the total to 446, but with no additional deaths or hospital admissions, officials remain hopeful that continued vigilance, hygiene measures, and timely medical intervention will help prevent further escalation.

Monkey pox is a rare disease caused by monkeypox virus [WHO]

Ghana confirms 22 new Mpox cases, total infections hit 446

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has revealed that the government is holding discussions with 13 countries to secure employment opportunities for Ghanaian nurses abroad.

This initiative, he explained, is designed to tackle the increasing backlog of unemployed health professionals.

Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh

According to a report by Adomonline.com on 29 August 2025, Mr Akandoh highlighted that thousands of nurses and midwives who graduated as far back as 2020 are still without placement.

ALSO READ:<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/entertainment/your-weekly-pulse-top-5-entertainment-stories-in-ghana-you-may-have-missed-25-29-august-2025082916090001356"> Your Weekly Pulse: Top 5 entertainment stories in Ghana you may have missed (25–29 August)</a>

“We have a huge backlog of nurses from 2020 who are still waiting for employment. The government is negotiating with 13 countries to export our nurses, and once these agreements are signed, it will open doors for many of our health professionals,” he said.

He added that the arrangement would not only ease pressure on the limited job opportunities available locally, but also provide Ghanaian nurses with valuable international exposure and pathways for professional advancement.

READ ALSO: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/news/filla/angry-man-sets-cafe-ablaze-for-not-serving-him-mayonnaise-2025082915343539067">Angry man sets café ablaze for not serving him mayonnaise</a>

The Minister further reassured staff and students of the government’s commitment to strengthening the health sector through both domestic recruitment and international collaborations.

In addition, he announced that the government will fund 15 nursing and midwifery tutors each year to pursue PhD programmes, as part of efforts to boost capacity in health education.

Government in talks with 13 countries to employ unplaced Ghanaian nurses

Beginning a new relationship is both exciting and daunting. While the chemistry may feel instant, lasting partnerships are built on something deeper than attraction alone.

Trust and intimacy form the bedrock of a healthy relationship, and they take time, patience, and conscious effort to develop. Below are ways to nurture both qualities as you embark on a new romantic journey.

<h2>How to Build Trust and Intimacy in a New Relationship</h2>

<h3>1. Communicate Openly and Honestly</h3>

Clear and honest communication is the foundation of any relationship. In the early stages, it is easy to gloss over concerns or avoid difficult conversations out of fear of rocking the boat. Yet, this is the very moment when openness matters most. Share your thoughts, feelings, and expectations with your partner.

Whether it is about how often you’d like to see each other, your <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/5-ways-to-set-healthy-boundaries-so-you-dont-end-up-in-another-toxic-relationship-2025062914013463081">personal boundaries</a>, or your long-term aspirations, expressing yourself truthfully helps establish transparency. In return, listen attentively when your partner shares, and validate their perspective even if you disagree.

READ ALSO: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/hard-truths-about-life-after-nss-in-ghana-2025082911162294325">Hard Truths About Life After NSS in Ghana</a>

<h3>2. Be Consistent with Your Actions</h3>

Trust is not built on words alone — it is reinforced by consistent behaviour. If you make promises, follow through on them. If you say you will call, make the effort to do so.

Small gestures of reliability, such as being punctual or remembering details your partner has shared, send a powerful message that you can be counted on. Consistency eliminates uncertainty and reassures your partner that your intentions are genuine.

Every individual carries different comfort levels when it comes to physical and emotional closeness. Some may be ready to share deeply very quickly, while others take more time. Respecting these boundaries is key to building intimacy.

Do not pressure your partner into moving faster than they are comfortable with — whether that involves emotional disclosures, physical affection, or lifestyle commitments. Trust grows when both people feel their boundaries are understood and respected.

ALSO READ:<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/5-warning-signs-of-academic-burnout-and-how-to-overcome-them-2025082711345533284"> Warning Signs of Academic Burnout and How to Overcome Them</a>

<h3>4. Share Vulnerabilities Gradually</h3>

True intimacy goes beyond physical closeness — it involves emotional connection. Allowing yourself to be vulnerable is a powerful way of deepening trust, but it should be done gradually. Opening up about your fears, insecurities, or past experiences shows authenticity and invites your partner to do the same.

Vulnerability, however, is not about oversharing immediately; it is about choosing the right moments to reveal parts of yourself in a way that feels safe for both of you.

Shared experiences are a powerful catalyst for intimacy. Dedicate time to enjoy activities together, whether it is cooking a meal, exploring a new place, or simply talking without distractions.

<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/relationships-and-weddings/if-your-boos-love-language-is-quality-time-heres-how-to-make-them-happy-always-2024080116161179181">Quality time fosters emotional bonding</a> and creates memories that strengthen your sense of connection. Intimacy thrives when couples invest in moments that bring them closer, rather than focusing solely on the physical side of the relationship.

READ ALSO:<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/how-money-affects-romantic-relationships-2025082912512203158"> Ways Money Affects Romantic Relationships</a>

Disagreements are inevitable in any relationship, but how they are handled determines whether trust is damaged or strengthened. Avoid blame, shouting, or shutting down communication. Instead, approach conflict with a mindset of resolving rather than winning.

Practise patience, listen to understand rather than react, and work together towards solutions. Couples who can navigate conflict respectfully often come out stronger and more united.

<h3>7. Show Appreciation and Affection</h3>

Trust and intimacy flourish in environments where both partners feel valued. Express gratitude for the little things your partner does and let them know you appreciate their efforts.

Affection, whether verbal or physical, is also crucial — a thoughtful compliment, a warm hug, or a reassuring hand-hold can communicate love more deeply than words alone. When both partners feel appreciated, they are more likely to let down their guard and build closeness.

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/how-to-know-if-your-boyfriend-is-cheating-2025082510310325887#google_vignette">Red Flags That Suggest Your Boyfriend May Be Cheating On You</a>

Trust and intimacy cannot be rushed. They evolve over time as two people learn more about each other’s values, strengths, and weaknesses.

Be patient with the process, and avoid comparing your relationship’s pace to others. Every bond is unique, and giving it room to grow naturally ensures a stronger, more genuine connection in the long run.

Building trust and <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/signs-of-intimacy-in-relationship-2025060216351972753">intimacy in a new relationship is less about grand gestures</a> and more about consistent, everyday efforts. By communicating openly, respecting boundaries, and showing genuine care, couples can create a foundation that not only withstands challenges but also nurtures a lasting sense of closeness. Trust is earned, intimacy is nurtured, and together they make love resilient.

8 Ways to Build Trust and Intimacy in a New Relationship

Romance often feels effortless in the early stages of a relationship, but as time passes and routines set in, keeping the spark alive requires conscious effort. Long-term relationships thrive on intimacy, affection, and a willingness to grow together, yet many couples struggle to maintain that same sense of excitement.

The good news is that with a little creativity and commitment, partners can keep the flame burning and strengthen their bond over the years.

Here are some imaginative and effective ways to nurture romance in a long-term relationship.

Just because you are years into a relationship does not mean dates should stop. Instead of limiting outings to predictable dinners, try creating experiences that feel fresh and exciting.

Surprise your partner with tickets to a play, organise a picnic in the park, or <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/womens-health/26-couple-games-for-a-fun-romantic-date-night-2024081004005090732">plan a themed date night at home</a>. Treating each other as if you are still in the early stages helps reignite passion and reminds you both of why you first fell in love.

<h3>2. Express Love in Small, Meaningful Gestures</h3>

Romance is often sustained through the little things. A heartfelt note in your partner’s bag, preparing their favourite meal, or sending a thoughtful text in the middle of the day can go a long way.

These simple actions signal appreciation and affection, keeping emotional intimacy alive. Over time, these gestures create a culture of care that strengthens the relationship.

<h3>3. Keep Physical Intimacy a Priority</h3>

Physical closeness is essential in long-term partnerships. Beyond sex, this includes holding hands, cuddling, kissing, and gentle touches that foster connection. Intimacy should not be reserved for special occasions—it thrives on consistency.

By making physical affection a regular part of daily life, couples can maintain a deeper sense of closeness and desire.

READ ALSO: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/essential-things-you-should-be-doing-in-your-20s-2025082512324962255">Essential Things You Should Be Doing in Your 20s</a>

Monotony is one of the biggest enemies of romance. To combat it, couples should engage in activities that spark joy and curiosity.

This might mean travelling to new destinations, trying out dance lessons, exploring new cuisines together, or starting a shared hobby like painting or gardening. Engaging in unfamiliar experiences helps couples create new memories, reinforcing their bond.

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/benefits-of-spiritual-cleansing-2025082911461624787#google_vignette">Physical benefits of spiritual cleansing</a>

<h3>5. Communicate with Depth and Openness</h3>

Romance flourishes when partners feel emotionally safe. Regularly taking the time to talk about hopes, fears, and aspirations keeps the relationship dynamic and intimate.

Rather than focusing solely on daily logistics, couples should carve out time for heartfelt conversations. Honest communication strengthens trust and prevents emotional distance from creeping in.

<h3>6. Celebrate Each Other Frequently</h3>

Acknowledging milestones, both big and small, can inject joy into long-term relationships. Celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, promotions, or even the completion of personal goals.

Marking these moments shows your partner that their growth and happiness matter to you, keeping romance active and meaningful.

READ ALSO:<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/signs-of-a-healthy-relationship-2025082811401432282"> Subtle Signs You’re in a Healthy Relationship</a>

<h3>7. Keep a Sense of Mystery and Surprise</h3>

Predictability can dull excitement, but small surprises rekindle that spark. This could be as simple as planning a spontaneous getaway, sending flowers unexpectedly, or trying something new in the bedroom.

A balance of stability and surprise keeps the relationship both secure and thrilling.

Romance thrives when both partners feel fulfilled as individuals. Pursuing personal goals, <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/food-and-travel/7-signs-you-need-to-practice-more-self-care-2024072416015994643">maintaining self-care routines</a>, and cultivating passions outside the relationship prevent stagnation.

A partner who continues to evolve brings fresh energy and inspiration into the relationship, making it easier to sustain attraction and admiration.

READ ALSO: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/entertainment/your-weekly-pulse-top-5-entertainment-stories-in-ghana-you-may-have-missed-25-29-august-2025082916090001356">Your Weekly Pulse: Top 5 entertainment stories in Ghana you may have missed (25–29 August)</a>

Romance is not something that fades with time—it is something that requires nurturing. By being intentional, playful, and considerate, couples can transform ordinary moments into opportunities for love and intimacy. A long-term relationship does not have to lose its spark; instead, with creativity and effort, it can grow into an even deeper and more rewarding partnership.

8 Creative Ways to Keep Romance Alive in Long-Term Relationships

What should have been a quiet afternoon in Los Palacios y Villafranca, a town in Seville, Spain, turned into chaos when a disgruntled customer allegedly set fire to a café—all because he was told there was no mayonnaise.

According to reports, the man, believed to be in his fifties, entered the café with his son last Wednesday and ordered two sandwiches. Surveillance footage captured him rising from his table to speak to a waiter, where he requested mayonnaise for his meal. When informed that the condiment was unavailable, he approached another member of staff only to receive the same response.

READ ALSO: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/news/speaker-bagbin-calls-for-ceasefire-urges-calm-amid-fatal-land-clashes-in-gbiniyiri-2025082909170681606">Speaker Bagbin calls for ceasefire, urges calm amid fatal land clashes in Gbiniyiri</a>

Frustrated, the man stormed out of the café and walked to a nearby petrol station. Minutes later, he returned carrying a 1.5-litre bottle of petrol. Witnesses say he once again asked if the café had mayonnaise, and when the staff repeated their earlier answer, he doused the bar with fuel and ignited it.

ALSO READ:<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/how-money-affects-romantic-relationships-2025082912512203158"> Ways Money Affects Romantic Relationships</a>

The café, which was busy with patrons at the time, was thrown into panic as flames erupted. Diners and staff fled the premises, including the enraged man himself.

Fortunately, the café workers acted swiftly, using fire extinguishers to control the blaze before it spread further. Damage was estimated at around $9,500, but miraculously, no customers or staff were harmed.

Ironically, the would-be arsonist managed to set his own left hand alight while escaping. He was later arrested by local police and is now awaiting sentencing. The café described the bizarre episode as “something surreal” and commended the quick actions of its staff for preventing greater destruction.

The peculiar case has left locals baffled, with many struggling to comprehend how a lack of mayonnaise could provoke such extreme behaviour.

Angry man sets café ablaze for not serving him mayonnaise

Stress is an inevitable part of modern life, but when it lingers unchecked, it can impact far more than your mood or productivity. One of the lesser-discussed consequences of chronic stress is its effect on sexual desire. A healthy sex drive is influenced by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors, and stress can disrupt all three.

Below are six key ways stress affects your sex drive, supported by scientific and medical insights.

When you are under stress, the body releases cortisol and adrenaline – hormones designed to help you cope with immediate challenges. While useful in small bursts, prolonged elevation of these hormones can suppress the production of oestrogen and testosterone, both of which are crucial for<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/foods-that-increase-libido-in-women-2025032415552135970"> sexual arousal and libido</a>.

In men, lower testosterone levels may reduce sexual desire, while in women, hormonal shifts can interfere with both arousal and lubrication.

Stress triggers the “fight or flight” response, redirecting blood flow to vital organs like the heart, lungs, and muscles. This survival mechanism reduces circulation to the reproductive organs.

Over time, this can lead to difficulties such as erectile dysfunction in men and reduced genital sensitivity in women, making sex less enjoyable and therefore less appealing.

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/hard-truths-about-life-after-nss-in-ghana-2025082911162294325">Hard Truths About Life After NSS in Ghana</a>

<h3>3. Mental Distraction and Fatigue</h3>

Psychological stress consumes mental energy. Constant worrying, overthinking, or exhaustion leaves little room for sexual desire. Individuals often report feeling too mentally drained to engage in intimacy.

For many, sex requires a relaxed mind, but stress interferes by keeping the brain in a hyper-alert state, diminishing sexual responsiveness.

<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/how-to-fall-asleep-fast-2025062414181065036">Stress frequently disrupts sleep by causing insomnia</a> or restless nights. Poor sleep affects the production of sex hormones and reduces overall energy levels.

Lack of rest also heightens irritability and emotional sensitivity, which can negatively affect how partners relate to each other. When energy is low, the desire for intimacy naturally decreases.

READ ALSO: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/signs-of-a-healthy-relationship-2025082811401432282">Subtle Signs You’re in a Healthy Relationship</a>

Chronic stress can spill over into relationships, leading to arguments, lack of communication, or emotional distance. These tensions may make partners feel disconnected, which lowers sexual desire.

For couples, the emotional bond is a vital foundation for physical intimacy, and when stress weakens this bond, sex often suffers.

<h3>6. Lowered Self-Esteem and Body Image</h3>

<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/foods-you-should-avoid-to-gain-weight-2025080107143810112">Stress can affect self-perception, sometimes leading to weight gain</a>, skin issues, or fatigue, all of which can damage confidence. When people feel unattractive or insecure, they may shy away from intimacy. This creates a cycle where stress reduces sex drive, and the lack of intimacy can in turn contribute to more stress.

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/6-reasons-why-you-should-normalise-drinking-okro-water-2025082810355542155">Reasons Why You Should Normalise Drinking Okro Water</a>

Stress is an unavoidable part of life, but being aware of how it affects your sex drive is the first step towards managing it. Techniques such as mindfulness, regular exercise, open communication with a partner, and professional counselling can all help reduce stress and restore a healthy balance in one’s sex life.

6 Ways Stress Affects Your Sex Drive

Money is often said to be one of the most sensitive topics in relationships, and for good reason. While love may be the foundation of a partnership, financial realities can shape how couples interact, make decisions, and plan their future.

From small disagreements about spending habits to major conflicts over long-term goals, money has the power to strengthen or strain a bond.

Here are five key ways finances affect romantic relationships.

<h2>Ways Money Affects Relationships</h2>

<h3>1. Spending Habits Can Cause Tension</h3>

Every individual has a unique relationship with money. Some are savers, others are spenders, and when these differences collide in a relationship, friction often follows.

A partner who enjoys spontaneous shopping may frustrate someone who prefers careful budgeting. Without honest conversations, even <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/money-habits-that-turn-partners-off-2025050515283782842">small spending disagreements can spiral into larger conflicts</a>.

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/stop-wasting-money-8-things-you-buy-monthly-that-you-dont-really-need-2025052922523492022">Things you buy monthly that you don't really need</a>

<h3>2. Financial Transparency Builds Trust</h3>

Honesty about income, debt, and financial responsibilities is crucial in a romantic partnership. Hiding financial problems — such as secret debts or reckless credit card use — can quickly erode trust.

On the other hand, being open about money matters creates a sense of security and allows both partners to work towards common goals with clarity.

<h3>3. Income Differences Can Shift Power Dynamics</h3>

When one partner earns significantly more than the other, it can subtly (or openly) affect decision-making in the relationship. The higher earner may feel entitled to make more financial choices, while the lower earner may feel undervalued.

Healthy couples acknowledge this imbalance and find ways to ensure both voices are heard, regardless of income level.

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/5-reasons-you-should-not-leave-your-fathers-house-too-early-in-ghana-2025082801451270963">Reasons Why You Should Not Leave Your Father’s House Too Early in Ghana</a>

<h3>4. Shared Financial Goals Strengthen Bonds</h3>

Saving for a home, planning a holiday, or even building an emergency fund — these shared goals bring couples closer. Working as a team towards financial milestones fosters a sense of partnership and unity.

Couples who align their goals often report stronger, more stable relationships, as they view themselves not just as lovers but as partners in building a future together.

<h3>5. Debt and Financial Stress Can Create Emotional Distance</h3>

Money problems can weigh heavily on any relationship. Debt, late payments, or living paycheque-to-paycheque often lead to anxiety, which may spill over into communication and intimacy.

Couples under financial stress sometimes argue more frequently, and in some cases, the strain can create emotional distance. Tackling financial challenges as a team, rather than placing blame, is key to preserving harmony.

<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/how-to-protect-your-money-in-the-bank-2025040814450738043">Money is more than just numbers in a bank account</a> — it represents security, freedom, and future possibilities. When couples avoid financial discussions, misunderstandings and resentment can build. But when money matters are addressed with openness and respect, it becomes a tool that strengthens rather than weakens love.

5 Ways Money Affects Romantic Relationships

Spiritual cleansing is often associated with emotional healing, energy renewal, and mental clarity. However, its impact extends beyond the unseen, influencing physical health in profound ways.

By addressing inner blockages and aligning the mind, body, and spirit, spiritual cleansing can create tangible improvements in overall well-being.

Here are six physical benefits of engaging in spiritual cleansing practices such as meditation, energy healing, fasting, prayer, or smudging.

<h2>Physical Benefits of Spiritual Cleansing</h2>

<h3>1. Reduced Stress Levels and Lower Blood Pressure</h3>

One of the most immediate physical benefits of spiritual cleansing is the reduction of stress. Cleansing rituals often involve calming techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or prayer, which lower cortisol levels in the body.

Reduced cortisol directly contributes to lower blood pressure, improved cardiovascular health, and a general sense of calmness. A balanced spirit translates into a more relaxed nervous system, <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/5-ghanaian-drinks-that-can-help-you-relax-and-release-stress-2025051615402388660">protecting the heart from the long-term effects of stress</a>.

The immune system thrives when the body is free from chronic stress and emotional blockages. Spiritual cleansing promotes relaxation and emotional release, which reduces the likelihood of stress-related illnesses.

For instance, practices like energy healing or fasting are believed to reset the body, encourage detoxification, and restore vitality. When the body is free from tension, it produces healthier immune responses, making it more resilient against common infections.

READ ALSO:<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/people-you-should-never-sleep-with-2025072115064395248"> People you should never, ever sleep with</a>

Many people who engage in spiritual cleansing report better sleep. This is because cleansing rituals often eliminate mental clutter and energetic imbalances that cause restlessness. Deep sleep is essential for physical repair and hormonal balance.

By fostering a sense of inner peace, spiritual cleansing allows the body to enter restorative sleep cycles more easily, leaving individuals feeling refreshed and energised upon waking.

Emotional stress is closely linked to digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Spiritual cleansing practices that focus on calming the mind and body can<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/mens-health/6-common-causes-of-an-unhappy-gut-2024080619122239100"> ease tension in the gut</a>.

For example, fasting and mindful eating during cleansing rituals allow the digestive system to reset and function more efficiently. A cleansed spirit often reflects in improved digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall gut health.

<h3>5. Increased Energy and Vitality</h3>

Negative energy, emotional baggage, and mental fatigue can weigh heavily on the body, causing lethargy and a lack of motivation. Spiritual cleansing lifts this weight, leaving individuals feeling lighter and more energised.

Activities such as smudging, prayer, or meditation restore balance to the body’s energy systems, which in turn revitalises physical stamina. This renewed energy often translates into higher productivity and improved physical activity levels.

READ ALSO: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/6-reasons-why-you-should-normalise-drinking-okro-water-2025082810355542155">Reasons Why You Should Normalise Drinking Okro Water</a>

There is growing evidence that spiritual and mindfulness-based practices help in reducing the perception of physical pain. Techniques such as meditation and energy healing promote the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.

By cleansing emotional and energetic blockages, individuals often report a significant reduction in tension-related headaches, muscle aches, and chronic pain conditions.

In essence, spiritual cleansing is not just a ritual of the soul but a powerful tool for <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/habits-for-a-happier-life-2025070209083344061">physical well-being</a>. By nurturing the spirit, you naturally care for the body, leading to a healthier, more balanced life.

6 physical benefits of spiritual cleansing

This month, another batch of graduates will complete their one-year mandatory National Service (NSS). For many, it marks a transition into what is often called the “real world” — a world of independence, career pursuit, and adulthood. But while the service period may come with challenges, the phase that follows is often more daunting.

Life after NSS in Ghana carries a reality that is rarely discussed openly, even though thousands of young people live through it every year.

Here are seven hard truths about life after NSS that every graduate should be prepared for.

<h3>1. Jobs May Not Come Immediately</h3>

Contrary to popular belief, completing NSS doesn’t guarantee a job. In fact, data from Ghana Statistical Service shows that a staggering 22.3 percent of people who remained unemployed between Q1 2022 and Q3 2023 held tertiary qualifications—a clear indicator that even educated graduates struggle to find work.

Moreover, only 5 to 10 percent of Ghanaian graduates secure employment within the first year after graduation, according to ISSER. <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/strategy-12-bad-and-outdated-job-hunting-tips-you-should-stop-believing-2024072400522834533">Job hunting</a> can take months or even years, with graduates competing in an already oversaturated job market. This waiting period can be frustrating and disheartening.

During NSS, the monthly allowance may not feel like much, but it provides some consistency. Once that allowance stops, graduates often realise how quickly their savings vanish in the face of transport costs, rent, feeding, and job search expenses.

Without immediate employment, many are left depending on family or struggling to make ends meet.

<h3>3. Pressure From Family Increases</h3>

The end of service often coincides with rising family expectations. Parents and relatives begin to expect financial support, forgetting that the graduate may still be unemployed.

Some are pressured to contribute to household expenses, pay school fees for siblings, or even move out. This added weight makes the transition period mentally and emotionally draining.

ALSO READ:<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/20-animals-that-cant-be-found-in-africa-2025082908215782010"> Animals that can't be found in Africa</a>

<h3>4. Graduate Status Doesn’t Guarantee Opportunities</h3>

The reality hits hard: a university degree alone no longer opens doors the way it once did. Employers increasingly look for specialised skills, practical experience, and professional networks.

<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/careers/3-reasons-why-taking-online-courses-is-a-good-idea-2024080809060501829">Many graduates discover they must return to short courses</a>, internships, or volunteering just to stay relevant in the job market.

<h3>5. Side Hustles Become a Lifeline</h3>

Because formal jobs are scarce, many graduates resort to side hustles to survive. From selling clothing and food to offering digital services or learning trades, side businesses often provide faster and more reliable income than the careers graduates studied for.

In fact, side hustles are no longer just optional; for many, they are essential.

The uncertainty of life after NSS can be overwhelming. Repeated job rejections, financial hardship, and constant comparisons with peers who seem to be advancing faster can create feelings of inadequacy.

Mental health issues were seen as weaknesses or signs of personal failure [Internationalcommunity]

Anxiety and depression are not uncommon, yet these issues are rarely spoken about. Graduates are often expected to “be strong” without the support systems they desperately need.

<h3>7. Networking Matters More Than You Think</h3>

In Ghana’s job market, who you know often counts as much as what you know. Many graduates discover too late that building strong networks during school and service could have made a difference.

Career growth often comes through mentorship, professional associations, or recommendations from contacts — opportunities that can’t always be found through online job postings.

ALSO READ: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/business/5-side-hustles-that-can-pay-you-more-than-a-9-5-job-dont-miss-no-2-2025040814001687158">Side hustles that can pay you more than a 9-5 job – Don’t miss no. 2</a>

Despite the struggles, life after NSS is not all bleak. Many graduates eventually find their way—through jobs, <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.com.gh/articles/lifestyle/side-hustles-for-9-to-5-workers-2025050912511176338">side hustles</a>, further studies, or entrepreneurship. With persistence, adaptability, and continuous learning, some go on to achieve even more than they imagined during their service year. The journey may be difficult, but it can also be a stepping stone to long-term success.

As another class of service personnel prepares to hang up their boots this month, the truth remains: life after NSS is tough. But by acknowledging these realities, graduates can plan better — whether by saving wisely, diversifying their skills, embracing side hustles, or intentionally building strong networks.

Life may not unfold as expected, but with resilience and strategy, this difficult transition can become the foundation for long-term growth.

Mildred Xorlali Babantsi

Articles written by the author

Legacy of Daddy Lumba celebrated at solemn one-week observance at Black Star Square

Ghana confirms 22 new Mpox cases, total infections hit 446

Government in talks with 13 countries to employ unplaced Ghanaian nurses

8 Ways to Build Trust and Intimacy in a New Relationship

8 Creative Ways to Keep Romance Alive in Long-Term Relationships

Angry man sets café ablaze for not serving him mayonnaise

6 Ways Stress Affects Your Sex Drive

5 Ways Money Affects Romantic Relationships

6 physical benefits of spiritual cleansing

8 Hard Truths About Life After NSS in Ghana

7 Subtle Signs You’re in a Healthy Relationship

6 Reasons Why You Should Normalise Drinking Okro Water

Two dead, several injured in clashes at Teshie Kpokpoi sprinkling festival

'I will not contest in the 2028 elections' - President Mahama

5 Reasons Why You Should Not Leave Your Father’s House Too Early in Ghana

ASK PULSE: "My Parents Threaten To Disown Me If I Do Fashion Rather Than Study Law — What Should I Do?

5 Warning Signs of Academic Burnout and How to Overcome Them

5 Reasons Why Boring Love Is Often the Healthiest Kind of Love

7 Honest Reasons Why You Should Not Keep Multiple Partners

5 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Bathe in Sea Water: The Hidden Dangers Explained