Book review : Mental Hygiene Kunle Pelemo

One of the greatest outcomes that the covid-19 pandemic has had on my life was welcoming the gift of friendships. I connected with so many people across the world and to date I call them my friends. Some, I have not  yet met physically because of the distance. However, at some point in my life I know that we will meet when grace permits. 

Kunle Pelemo, affectionately known as KP, is one of those people. We e-met online I believe three years ago. We would casually talk about the importance of mental health. At the time, I was very apprehensive about sharing my mental health journey. Well, it used to be a very daunting experience just talking to someone, especially about my mental wellbeing. There he was KP,  the mental health expert and my friend. The rest is history, well for now. 

From a professional point of view, I will tell you that KP is not only passionate. He understands the importance of a sound mind being associated with a healthy mental state. He personally has had the experience of not only coaching and supporting individuals who seek mental health guidance. However, has made mental wellbeing a priority for himself. That for me personally is one of the greatest accomplishments. 

Now before, I digress and get overly excited please ensure that you reach out to him personally. Get his book Mental Hygiene, read it, write to him and keep spreading the message of mental health matters. Your gift to yourself this 2025 must be prioritizing your mental health. Yes, sometimes we forget about our mental health, myself included, this book is your guide. In my case KP is just a phone call away. 

My encounter with Mental Hygiene 

Two of the most very important lessons that KP himself has taught me concerning my mental health is mindfulness and gratitude. In the beginning of his sessions with me, I would silently get mad. You ask whyʔ My answer, when the world seems to be caving in on me, you mean to tell me that I must be mindful and gratefulʔ Come on really nowʔ 

I want to burn the entire place up, there is no time for practicing mindfulness and gratitude.  I mean why must I be mindful and at the same time gratefulʔ

A very good question. The answer is simple, well it never used to be simple. I have had to do the inner work. When one faces mental health challenges, it is essential for your well being to remain mindful and practice gratitude.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a state of awakening your inner consciousness. Mindfulness is a tool that you must use to confront yourself. You have difficult, uncomfortable and honest conversations with yourself. You make discoveries about yourself both beautiful and flawed. You interrogate your actions towards yourself and others. You forgive yourself for the burdens you have carried. You forgive yourself for not being who you are supposed to be to yourself. You forgive others and make peace with that many are still trying to discover themselves. With the help of my dear friend KP, to date I still practice mindfulness.

Gratitude

For years, KP has insisted that I have a gratitude jar. Yes, I am guilty of not having one yet. However, I have changed that in 2025. The whole notion of having a gratitude jar is to write down any good, small or big aspect in your life that you are grateful for. You toss it in the jar and whenever you feel the world caving in on you. You open that jar and read the tiny pieces of paper that you tossed in the jar. This jar is supposed to remind you that even on the not so good days, there is something to always be grateful for.

There is power in gratitude. I believe in the power of being grateful. Having a gratitude mindset enables you to live in the present. You learn to appreciate life as it unfolds. You appreciate people and understand the concept that life indeed is a gift. Gratitude opens doors. Gratitude nourishes your mental wellbeing. I think I should park it right here.

Overall it is an honour to review your work KP. You have taught me so much over the years. Your work is just a testament of your commitment to mental health and people. Now through your book many people will be inspired and uplifted by your wisdom. This is because you have placed yourself on every page of the book. I am truly honoured to be associated with you and thank you for giving me the gift of friendship. It is only fair that I share you with the world now. 

To the moon and back.

Makukhanye KP

Kuyakhanya manje. 

What a wholesome read.

Book 3 of 2025.

Phiwe Mncwabe is storyteller, blogger and voice in Africa.

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