Category: How To

  • What Studies Say About Hugs

    What Studies Say About Hugs

     

     

    A hug might seem like a small gesture, but research shows it has big benefits for our health and well-being. Science confirms that hugging goes beyond just showing affection—it actually improves both our body and mind.

     

     

    1. Hugs Reduce Stress

    Studies show that hugging triggers the release of oxytocin (also called the “love hormone”), which helps reduce stress and anxiety. It also lowers cortisol levels, the body’s stress hormone.

     

     

    2. Boosts Immunity

    According to research from Carnegie Mellon University, people who received more hugs were less likely to get sick, even when exposed to cold viruses. Hugs may strengthen your immune system by reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

     

     

    3. Improves Heart Health

    Hugging has been linked to lower blood pressure and a slower heart rate, which helps protect your heart. Physical touch creates a calming effect that supports cardiovascular health.

     

     

    4. Strengthens Relationships

    Hugging improves bonding and trust between people. It makes both partners or friends feel secure, supported, and emotionally connected.

     

     

    5. Improves Mood

    Even a quick hug can lift your spirits. Hugs increase levels of serotonin and dopamine—“feel-good” chemicals in the brain—which help fight loneliness and sadness.

     

     

    6. Helps With Conflict Resolution

    Interestingly, one study found that people who received a hug after a conflict felt better and were more likely to resolve the issue calmly.

     

    Final Thought:

    Science proves what we already feel—hugs are healing. They’re free, simple, and powerful. Next time you’re feeling stressed, down, or even happy, share a hug—it’s one of the easiest ways to boost your health and happiness.

  • How to Subscribe for DStv in Ghana

    How to Subscribe for DStv in Ghana

     

     

    DStv is one of the most popular satellite TV services in Ghana, offering a wide range of channels for sports, movies, news, entertainment, and kids. If you’ve installed DStv and want to renew or subscribe to a package, here’s a simple guide to help you.

     

     

    1. Know Your Smartcard Number

    •Your DStv smartcard number is usually found on the decoder card.

    •You’ll need this number for any subscription or payment.

     

     

    2. Choose a Package

    DStv offers different packages in Ghana, such as:

    •DStv Premium – Full access to all channels.

    •Compact Plus / Compact – A mix of sports, movies, and entertainment at a lower cost.

    •Family / Access – Affordable packages with essential channels.

    Check the official DStv Ghana website or MyDStv app for the latest prices.

     

     

    3. Ways to Pay for Your DStv Subscription

    a) Using MTN Mobile Money (MoMo)

    1.Dial *170#.

    2.Select Pay Bill.

    3.Choose General Payment.

    4.Enter DStv or MultiChoice as the merchant.

    5.Enter your smartcard number as the reference.

    6.Enter the amount (based on your package).

    7.Confirm payment.

    b) Using the MyDStv App

    1.Download MyDStv App (available on Android/iOS).

    2.Log in with your smartcard number and details.

    3.Select your package.

    4.Pay using mobile money, debit card, or other options provided.

    c) Bank Payments & Online Options

    •Some banks in Ghana (like Ecobank, Fidelity, GTBank) allow direct payment.

    •You can also pay online via Quickteller or MultiChoice Ghana’s website.

     

     

    4. After Payment

    •Your subscription is usually activated within minutes.

    •If channels don’t appear, send a reset command by:

    •Dialing *759# (for DStv Ghana reset option) or

    •Using the MyDStv app.

     

    Tip: Always make sure you pay before your subscription expires to avoid interruption of service.

  • How to Get Rid of Warts on the Face

    How to Get Rid of Warts on the Face

     

     

    Warts are small, rough growths on the skin caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). While they are usually harmless, having them on the face can affect your confidence and self-esteem. The good news is, there are safe ways to manage and remove them.

     

     

    1. Consult a Dermatologist First

    Since the face is a sensitive area, the safest option is to see a skin doctor (dermatologist). They can recommend the best treatment and ensure no scars are left behind.

     

     

    2. Medical Treatments for Facial Warts

    Some effective options include:

    •Cryotherapy: Freezing the wart with liquid nitrogen.

    •Laser treatment: Burning the wart tissue using focused light.

    •Minor surgery: A doctor carefully removes the wart.

    •Prescription creams: Special creams that boost your immune system to fight the virus.

     

     

    3. Home Remedies (With Caution)

    If the wart is small, some people try natural methods, but be careful on the face to avoid scars:

    •Aloe vera gel – soothes skin and may help with healing.

    •Garlic paste – has antiviral properties but must be used carefully to avoid burns.

    •Vitamin C paste – crushing a vitamin C tablet and applying to the wart may help.

    Avoid harsh acids or over-the-counter wart removers meant for feet/hands on your face, as they can damage delicate skin.

     

     

    4. Boost Your Immunity

    Because warts are caused by a virus, a strong immune system helps prevent them from spreading or coming back. Eat a healthy diet, get enough sleep, and manage stress.

     

     

    5. Prevention Tips

    •Don’t pick or scratch warts (it can spread the virus).

    •Keep your face clean and dry.

    •Avoid sharing towels or razors.

    •Treat warts early before they multiply.

     

     

    Final Thought:

    Facial warts can be stubborn, but with proper medical care and good skin hygiene, they can be treated safely. Always seek professional advice before trying removal methods at home, especially on sensitive areas like the face.

  • How to Openly Talk to Your Partner About Sex

    How to Openly Talk to Your Partner About Sex

     

    Sex is an important part of a healthy relationship, but for many people, talking about it feels uncomfortable or even embarrassing. The truth is, open communication about sex can strengthen intimacy, build trust, and make your relationship more satisfying. Here’s how to approach the conversation with care and confidence.

     

     

    1. Choose the Right Time and Place

    Don’t start the conversation in the middle of an argument or right before sex. Instead, choose a relaxed, private moment where you both feel comfortable and open to talk.

     

     

    2. Start with Your Feelings, Not Complaints

    Use “I” statements instead of blaming. For example:

    • “I’d love if we could try…”

    • “You never do this…”

    This keeps the conversation positive and focused on building intimacy, not criticism.

     

     

    3. Be Honest, But Gentle

    Talk openly about what you like, what you’re curious about, and what makes you uncomfortable. Be clear, but also respectful of your partner’s feelings.

     

     

    4. Encourage Their Input

    Ask questions like:

    •“What do you enjoy the most?”

    •“Is there something you’d like us to try?”

    •“How can I make you feel more comfortable?”

    This makes it a two-way conversation, not a lecture.

     

     

    5. Normalize the Conversation

    The more you talk about sex in a healthy and respectful way, the less awkward it will feel. Make it part of your normal discussions about your relationship.

     

     

    6. Respect Boundaries

    Not everything has to be a “yes.” If your partner isn’t comfortable with something, respect that. Consent and mutual understanding are key to a healthy sex life.

     

     

    Final Thought:

    Talking openly about sex doesn’t just improve your bedroom experience—it also deepens trust, love, and emotional connection. The more you communicate, the more fulfilling your relationship will be.

  • Protecting Yourself From Contracting Diseases When Stepping Out

    Protecting Yourself From Contracting Diseases When Stepping Out

     

     

    Every time we step outside, we come into contact with germs, bacteria, and viruses that can cause illness. While you can’t avoid all risks, practicing good hygiene and safety habits can greatly reduce your chances of contracting diseases. Here are simple steps to protect yourself when going out.

     

     

    1. Practice Good Hand Hygiene

    •Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

    •If soap and water aren’t available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

    •Avoid touching your face (eyes, nose, mouth) with unwashed hands.

     

     

    2. Wear a Mask in Crowded Places

    •In busy areas such as markets, public transport, or events, a mask can help protect against airborne diseases.

    •Always carry one with you in case you find yourself in a crowded space.

     

     

    3. Keep a Safe Distance

    •Maintain at least 1 meter (3 feet) distance from people who are coughing, sneezing, or showing flu-like symptoms.

    •Avoid unnecessary close contact, especially with strangers.

     

     

    4. Avoid Sharing Personal Items

    •Do not share items like water bottles, cutlery, phones, or face towels.

    •Germs spread easily through shared objects.

     

     

    5. Boost Your Immunity

    •Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

    •Stay hydrated and get enough sleep.

    •Regular exercise keeps your body strong and ready to fight infections.

     

     

    6. Be Cautious in Public Restrooms

    •Use tissues to turn off taps or open doors if possible.

    •Wash hands thoroughly after using the restroom.

     

     

    7. Sanitize Frequently Touched Items

    •Wipe down your phone, keys, and wallet regularly.

    •Carry a small sanitizer to clean your hands after touching public surfaces like door handles or railings.

     

     

    Final Tip: Prevention is always better than cure. By practicing these small but powerful habits, you’ll stay healthier and reduce your chances of getting sick when stepping out.

  • How to Track Your Lost Phone Safely

    How to Track Your Lost Phone Safely

     

    Losing your phone can be stressful. Our phones hold personal information, contacts, photos, and even banking details. The good news is, with the right tools and steps, you can track your lost phone safely and increase your chances of finding it—without putting yourself at risk.

     

     

    1. Use Built-In Phone Tracking Features

    For Android Users

    •Use Find My Device (by Google).

    •Visit google.com/android/find on another device.

    •Sign in with your Google account.

    •You can:

    •See your phone’s location on a map.

    •Make it ring (even if on silent).

    •Lock it with a message and phone number for anyone who finds it.

    •Erase data if you’re sure it’s stolen.

    For iPhone Users

    •Use Find My iPhone.

    •Go to icloud.com/find or use another Apple device.

    •Sign in with your Apple ID.

    •You can:

    •Play a sound to locate it nearby.

    •Activate Lost Mode (locks your phone with a custom message).

    •Erase your iPhone remotely.

     

     

    2. Call Your Phone or Send a Message

    •Sometimes your phone is just misplaced. Call your number from another line.

    •If someone finds it, they may pick up or call you back.

    •You can also send an SMS offering a small reward (without sharing sensitive info).

     

     

    3. Contact Your Network Provider

    •Inform your service provider (MTN, Vodafone, AirtelTigo, etc.) immediately.

    •They can block your SIM card to prevent fraud.

    •In some cases, they may assist with tracking using your IMEI number.

     

     

    4. Report to the Police

    •If you suspect theft, don’t try to confront the thief yourself.

    •File a report with the Ghana Police Service (or local police in your country).

    •Provide your phone’s IMEI number (dial *#06# on your phone to get it and write it down somewhere safe).

     

     

    5. Protect Your Data Immediately

    •Change your Google/Apple account passwords.

    •Log out of apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and banking apps from another device.

    •This ensures no one can misuse your personal information.

     

     

    Important Safety Tip

    Never put yourself in danger by going alone to retrieve your phone. Always involve the police or trusted authorities if it’s in someone else’s hands.

     

     

    Final Thought

    Losing your phone doesn’t have to mean losing everything. By acting quickly, using built-in tracking tools, contacting your provider, and protecting your data, you can safely track your phone and minimize the risks.

     

  • How to Use WhatsApp Backup to Save Your Chats

    How to Use WhatsApp Backup to Save Your Chats

     

     

    We all use WhatsApp to stay in touch with friends, family, and colleagues. But imagine losing your phone and with it, all your important chats, photos, and documents. That’s where WhatsApp Backup comes in—it helps you save your chats safely and restore them anytime, even on a new phone.

    Here’s a step-by-step guide:

     

     

    1. Why You Should Backup WhatsApp

    •Prevents loss of important messages and media.

    •Makes it easy to switch to a new phone.

    •Stores your data securely on Google Drive (Android) or iCloud (iPhone).

     

     

    2. How to Backup WhatsApp on Android

    1.Open WhatsApp.

    2.Tap the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner.

    3.Go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup.

    4.Choose your Google Account for backup.

    5.Tap Back Up to manually save your chats.

    6.For automatic backups, select Backup to Google Drive and choose daily, weekly, or monthly.

    You can also decide whether to include videos (note: this takes more storage).

     

     

    3. How to Backup WhatsApp on iPhone

    1.Open WhatsApp.

    2.Go to Settings > Chats > Chat Backup.

    3.Tap Back Up Now to start a manual backup.

    4.For automatic backups, select Auto Backup and choose daily, weekly, or monthly.

    5.Make sure you’re signed in to your iCloud account and have enough storage space.

     

     

    4. How to Restore WhatsApp Chats on a New Phone

    •Install WhatsApp on your new device.

    •Verify your phone number.

    •WhatsApp will detect your previous backup.

    •Tap Restore and wait for your chats and media to load.

     

     

    Tips to Remember

    •Always connect to Wi-Fi before backing up (saves data).

    •Ensure your Google Drive/iCloud has enough storage.

    •Keep your phone connected to power during backup for large files.

     

     

    Final Thought

    Backing up your WhatsApp chats is one of the simplest ways to protect your memories and important information. Set up automatic backups today, and you’ll never have to worry about losing your chats again.

     

  • How to Store Fresh Tomatoes and Onions to Avoid Wastage

    How to Store Fresh Tomatoes and Onions to Avoid Wastage

     

    Tomatoes and onions are kitchen essentials in almost every Ghanaian (and global) home. But they also tend to spoil quickly if not stored properly—leading to wasted food and money. The good news is, with the right storage methods, you can keep them fresh for longer.

    Here’s how:

     

    How to Store Fresh Tomatoes

    1.Keep Them at Room Temperature (if unripe)

    •Place unripe tomatoes on the counter, away from direct sunlight.

    •To speed up ripening, put them in a paper bag with a banana or apple (they release natural gas that ripens tomatoes faster).

    2.Don’t Refrigerate Unripe Tomatoes

    •Cold temperatures stop ripening and affect their natural taste and texture.

    •Only refrigerate tomatoes once they are fully ripe and you want to extend their shelf life for a few more days.

    3.Store Ripe Tomatoes in the Fridge (Short-Term)

    •Place ripe ones in the fridge’s crisper drawer.

    •Let them sit at room temperature for a while before using—this helps restore some of their flavor.

    4.Preserve by Blending or Freezing

    •If you bought too many tomatoes, blend and store in freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays.

    •Frozen tomato paste can last for months and is handy for quick cooking.

     

    How to Store Onions

    1.Keep Them in a Cool, Dry, and Ventilated Place

    •Store whole onions in a basket, mesh bag, or netted sack—not in plastic bags, as they need air circulation.

    •Avoid direct sunlight and moisture, which cause sprouting or rotting.

    2.Don’t Refrigerate Whole Onions

    •The fridge makes onions soft and moldy faster.

    •Only store chopped/sliced onions in an airtight container in the fridge (for up to 7 days).

    3.Separate Onions and Potatoes

    •Never store onions and potatoes together—gases from potatoes make onions spoil quickly.

    4.Freeze for Longer Storage

    •Chop onions and freeze them in small portions.

    •Use directly in stews, soups, or sauces—no need to thaw!

     

     

    Quick Tips to Avoid Wastage:

    •Buy only the amount you can use within a week.

    •Check onions/tomatoes regularly and remove spoiled ones immediately to prevent spread.

    •For big bulk purchases (like market shopping), process and freeze extras.

     

    Final Thought

    With just a little care, you can make your tomatoes and onions last much longer. Whether you keep them fresh, blend and freeze, or store them in the right containers, these small steps will help you cut down waste and save money.

  • How to Spot and Avoid Phishing Emails

    How to Spot and Avoid Phishing Emails

     

     

    Email is one of the most common ways scammers try to trick people into giving away sensitive information. These fake messages—called phishing emails—often look like they come from trusted companies or even your bank. If you’re not careful, you could accidentally share your passwords, bank details, or personal data.

    Here’s how to spot and avoid phishing emails before they fool you.

     

     

    1. Look at the Sender’s Address Carefully

    •Scammers may use emails that look similar to official ones (e.g., support@paypa1.com instead of support@paypal.com).

    •Always double-check for spelling mistakes or unusual domain names.

     

     

    2. Beware of Urgent or Threatening Language

    •Phishing emails often say things like:

    •“Your account will be suspended if you don’t act now!”

    •“Confirm your password immediately!”

    •These are designed to make you panic and act without thinking.

     

     

    3. Don’t Click Suspicious Links

    •Hover over any link before clicking—it will show the real website address.

    •If it doesn’t match the official website, don’t click.

    •Instead, go directly to the company’s website by typing the URL in your browser.

     

     

    4. Check for Poor Grammar and Spelling

    •Many phishing emails contain awkward wording, misspellings, or grammar mistakes.

    •Legitimate companies usually proofread their emails carefully.

     

     

    5. Don’t Download Unexpected Attachments

    •Attachments in phishing emails can contain malware or viruses.

    •If you weren’t expecting a file, don’t download it—even if the email looks real.

     

     

    6. Watch Out for Requests for Personal Information

    •No legitimate company will ask you to share passwords, bank PINs, or social security numbers over email.

    •If an email requests this, it’s almost certainly a scam.

     

     

    7. Use Security Tools

    •Enable spam filters in your email account.

    •Use antivirus software to block malicious attachments.

    •Activate **

  • How to Store Food Properly to Avoid Waste

    How to Store Food Properly to Avoid Waste

     

    Food waste is one of the biggest problems in homes today. Not only does it waste money, but it also affects the environment. The good news is that you can save both money and food by learning how to store food properly. With the right storage tips, your groceries can last longer and stay fresh.

    Here are some smart ways to store different types of food:

     

     

    1. Store Fruits and Vegetables the Right Way
    • Keep bananas, apples, and tomatoes separate from other produce, as they release ethylene gas that makes foods spoil faster.
    • Wrap leafy greens like lettuce and spinach in a paper towel before putting them in the fridge to absorb moisture and keep them crisp.
    • Store potatoes and onions in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place—but not together, as they cause each other to spoil.

     

     

    2. Make the Most of Your Fridge
    • Keep your fridge at the right temperature: below 5°C (40°F).
    • Store raw meat, fish, and poultry on the bottom shelf (in sealed containers) to prevent juices from dripping onto other foods.
    • Use airtight containers for leftovers to keep them fresh longer.
    • Don’t overcrowd your fridge—air needs to circulate for food to stay cool.

     

     

    3. Freeze Smartly
    • Freeze food in portions so you only defrost what you need.
    • Label frozen food with the date so you know how long it has been stored.
    • Wrap bread, meat, or cooked meals tightly to avoid freezer burn.
    • Remember: Most foods can last 3–6 months in the freezer.

     

     

    4. Use Airtight Containers and Jars
    • Store dry foods like rice, beans, pasta, and cereals in sealed containers to keep away pests and moisture.
    • Use glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers for snacks and pantry items.

     

     

    5. Understand “Best Before” vs “Use By” Dates
    • “Best Before” means the food may lose quality but is still safe to eat.
    • “Use By” means the food should not be eaten after that date for safety reasons.

    Knowing the difference helps you avoid throwing away good food unnecessarily.

     

     

    6. Plan and Rotate Your Food
    • Practice FIFO (First In, First Out): Eat older food before newer ones.
    • Plan your meals so you only buy what you need.
    • Keep frequently used items at the front of your fridge/pantry and less-used items at the back.

     

     

    Final Thought

    Storing food properly is all about organization and smart habits. By using these simple tips, you can keep your food fresh, reduce waste, and save money. Remember, every small step helps both your wallet and the planet.