By June 12. Democracy Day. A national public holiday. For some, it means rest. For others, it’s just another day to dodge traffic or sit in it. But for all of us, it’s a chance to reflect not just on political freedom, but the kind of freedom that truly starts from within: mental freedom.
Lagos Stress is Real, But So is Mental Liberation. Let’s be honest living in Lagos sometimes feels like a mental gymnastics competition.
From the minute your alarm screams at 5am, you’re in a battle:
- You battle bus queues at Iyana Ipaja.
- You negotiate with bike men like you’re at the UN.
- You dodge flood puddles in Lekki like an Olympic long jumper.
- Then you enter work, and your boss says “we need to talk.*
But amidst the madness, **how often do we stop to ask, *Is my mind free?*
This Democracy Day, Free Your Mind Too.
Let’s celebrate not just democracy on paper, but mental democracy the freedom to breathe, to pause, to heal, to say no, and to prioritize peace.
Here’s how to start:
- Create space for your mind; Turn off your phone for 30 minutes today. It won’t die. You won’t miss anything life-changing on TikTok.
- Do one thing just for you; Not for salary, not for spouse, not for social media. Just for you.
- Speak kindly to yourself: Your mind listens to you more than anyone else. Be gentle with your thoughts.
- Rest is a right, not a reward*; Today is not a productivity contest. If your body is tired, let it win.
Celebrate Mental Freedom, Lagos-Style!
So yes, today we celebrate freedom. But not just the one politicians talk about. We’re talking about the freedom to protect your peace in a city that moves at lightning speed.
Because if you can find laughter on a flooded Thursday, or joy in a packed bus at Agege, or hope while holding your umbrella like a shield in Surulere then Lagos, you’re practicing true democracy: the freedom to stay sane despite it all.
Happy Democracy Day, Lagosians
Here’s to less anxiety, more awareness.
Less pressure, more presence.
Less noise, more peace.
From our mentally rested hearts to yours,
Dear Lagosians 💛