Widows participating in the Rose of Sharon Foundation (RoSF) program have received crucial guidance on rebuilding emotional strength and rediscovering life purpose through intentional self-care practices.
Healing Through Self-Awareness and Connection
During the "Trauma Management and Psycho-Socio Support" program held recently in Lagos, Founder and Clinical Psychologist at Elus-Rapha Psychological Services, Judith Gbadebo, delivered a powerful keynote address emphasizing the journey toward emotional wholeness. The event, which commenced with early morning exercises, specifically targeted widows under the foundation's care.
Speaking on the theme "Becoming Whole Again: Nurturing Emotional Well-Being Beyond Life Difficulties," Gbadebo identified self-awareness and reflection as the foundational steps toward healing. She encouraged participants to practice positive self-talk, maintain regular quiet time for contemplation, and embrace self-acceptance without judgment.
"You define your truth; nobody can tell you what your truth is," Gbadebo asserted, highlighting that comprehensive self-care extends beyond physical appearance to encompass emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well-being.
Practical Steps Toward Emotional Recovery
Oloruntosin Taiwo, RoSF Coordinator, addressed the critical importance of forgiveness and emotional release in the recovery process. She explained that numerous psychological and physical health concerns affecting women often originate from unresolved emotional pain and bitterness, which can manifest as stress, hypertension, or depression.
Taiwo emphasized that releasing resentment and learning healthy emotional expression—whether through tears, conversation, or professional counseling—significantly contributes to restoring mental peace and physical health. She warned that unaddressed emotional burdens can compromise immune system function and disrupt sleep patterns, thereby exacerbating existing challenges.
Participants received practical advice to prioritize their mental and emotional health, seek professional assistance when needed, and prevent past hurts from controlling their current happiness.
Nutritional Support for Emotional Balance
In a separate session, team member Ayomide Fatoki educated attendees about the vital connection between proper nutrition and emotional stability. She introduced the Mediterranean diet approach, describing it as a plant-based nutritional strategy emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, nuts, and healthy fats while minimizing processed foods and red meat consumption.
Fatoki explained that adopting such dietary patterns not only supports physical health but also assists in stress management and mood regulation. She highlighted specific nutrients—including Omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and probiotics found in fish, spinach, and yogurt—that help calm the nervous system, improve sleep quality, and enhance brain function.
The nutrition expert recommended consistent, manageable dietary adjustments such as regular fruit consumption and reduced intake of sugary and fried foods. She also stressed the importance of adequate hydration and daily physical activity, particularly for women in their later years.
Throughout the program, facilitators emphasized maintaining spiritual connection and practicing daily gratitude as essential components for strengthening inner peace and emotional resilience.
