Living Life in the Slow Lane: How Relocating to Nigeria from Canada Reduced My Stress Levels Significantly

In an increasingly globalized world, the allure of Western countries like Canada can be intoxicating. The promise of better education, healthcare, and quality of life often entices us to make that significant move. However, what’s often neglected is the high-stress lifestyle that comes along with living in these developed countries. My name is Victoria, the founder of NaijaGists.com, and I am here to tell you about my life-altering experience of moving back to Nigeria from Canada. Less than two weeks after the move, I am genuinely living life in the slow lane, and my stress levels have plummeted. Here’s why.

High Cost of Living in Canada

One of the most immediate reliefs I experienced after relocating to Nigeria was the significant reduction in the cost of living. While living in Canada, my family and I were under constant financial stress due to the sky-high living costs. A monthly bill of $3500 was a regular occurrence, not to mention the added expenses of private healthcare, transportation, and other day-to-day essentials. The need to generate this much money every month left me overworked, stressed, and with little time to enjoy life.

Educational System: A Comparative Analysis

Another striking difference between living in Canada and Nigeria is the educational system. In Canada, my children faced learning difficulties, as the educational framework did not suit their needs. However, in Nigeria, I can afford extra teachers for them, and they are thriving in a system that is, to my surprise, more efficient for their specific learning styles.

The Health Factor: Mental and Physical

Canada’s cold weather and lack of abundant sunshine contributed to my overall stress and well-being. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a real issue in countries like Canada. The lack of sunlight can significantly affect your mental health, which in turn affects your physical health. Since returning to Nigeria, the ample sunlight and warm climate have not only elevated my mood but also contributed to my physical well-being.

Real Estate: No Place Like Home

In Nigeria, I own a mansion, a stark contrast to the rental apartments in Canada. Owning my own home in Nigeria has eradicated the stress associated with monthly rent payments, landlord issues, and the instability that comes with not having a permanent residence.

Community and Social Life

While the diaspora community in Canada offers some comfort, it lacks the innate understanding and cultural context that I find back home in Nigeria. Since my return, I have reconnected with old friends and family, and my social life is booming. The sense of community in Nigeria is immensely comforting and has had a positive impact on my mental health.

Creative Upliftment

Interestingly, my creativity has soared since I returned to Nigeria. The absence of constant financial pressure, along with the inspiration that comes from being in my homeland, has significantly increased my creative output. I have more time to think, more freedom to explore, and the mental space to generate new ideas.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes, the grass may seem greener on the other side, but it’s essential to remember that every pasture has its own set of challenges and advantages. The Western world is not a utopia. If you, like me, are contemplating a move back to Nigeria, consider the untapped opportunities, the benefits to your mental health, and the unparalleled freedom you’ll experience.

Living life in the slow lane in Nigeria has not only reduced my stress but has also enriched my life in ways I hadn’t imagined. Sometimes, the key to a better life might just be a flight ticket away, back to your roots.