Do not over-indulge yourself this Easter

Thankfully, Easter is here again, as the first phase of the general elections has passed without any chaos as predicted by some. This year’s Easter may be celebrated at low-key for some, not just because of the ripple effects of the fall in oil prices in the international market, naira devaluation and the persistent cash crunch every other Nigerian has to endure, but more importantly it comes up between two major elections.

Festive periods are normally associated with gluttony and over-indulgence – and why not so? They are no doubt favourite times of the year, and a good number of people share this sentiment. At times like this, one is granted the luxury of the Easter break, see families, relax and then indulge in a few activities, especially eating your hearts out.

Already, a mass movement of people due to the fear of electoral violence before, during and after the elections has affected in no small way people’s plans to celebrate this year’s Easter.

For many, the simple wisdom is based on the fact that only the living can celebrate; if not this year, then next year, if one is alive to witness it. To be sure, most families have stocked their homes with foodstuffs and essential supplies.

While the heightened purchases make it look like Nigerians are on a spending spree ahead of Easter, many observers say the real reason for the frenzied buying is precautionary and panic due to the elections. Also, most households have stocked their homes with food items and other personal care items that must be purchased.

Asides eating your regular fried rice, jollof rice, pounded-yam, and so on, know it that there are a few nutritious meals also that can serve as a reliable diet, which could help keep your waistline intact.

There is no doubt that a good number of people cannot wait till the Easter celebration begins to take time out to relax throughout the long weekend starting from Friday, and to consume a handful of nutritional meals.

Anne Agbaje