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HAIR ‘DOCTOR’ MEFIKA’S FIT LIFESTYLE

03/02/2021 08:47:00 BY PHOLSILE HLOPHE

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MBABANE – He is unique and motivational.

Bonafide hair stylist, Mefika Dlamini, based at Ezulwini-Mdzimba four ways shopping complex, was hard hit by COVID-19. Like many businesses, his salon was forced to a close, leaving him to battle with depression and the stress of having to make ends meet for months without any source of income. Dlamini is also the head coach for Ezulwini Young Aces juniors’ football team. When football was suspended and out of business for over five months in 2020, exercising was the only way the hair doctor could overcome the mental distress caused by this pandemic.

The job of a hair stylist means working on your feet for an entire day and this calls for one to be physical fit and mentally ready to deal with often impatient and demanding clients. Let us hear how Dlamini manages to keep fit and healthy during the fight against COVID-19.

How do you manage to stay in shape?

“I am a football coach for juniors and a hair stylist. Exercise is part of who I am. I walk to work every day and this has become my daily workout. I exercise every morning and evening and sometimes do quick fix exercises in my salon on lousy days. My daughter sometimes joins me for road work and bodyweight training. I believe I am a good influence to her. Staying in shape for me means eating healthy food, drinking lots of water and having good habits. I neither drink nor smoke.”

Has anyone close to you contracted COVID-19 and how did you support him or her?

“My brother tested positive for COVID-19 and fortunately, he recovered. I offered him emotional support and gave him hope that he would recover. We would help him with the home remedies such as the ginger and garlic concoction. I would also advise him to do light exercises every four hours to regain strength.”

How do you sensitise people around you about COVID-19?

“In my business, the rules are clear; no mask, no entry. We have a sanitising station by the door to ensure safety. We sterilise our equipment due to the nature of our business. I preach the same gospel even at home and with my friends because you know that some people simply choose to ignore the reality of this virus.”

How has COVID-19 affected you in general?

“Last year, things were quite hectic especially on the business side. As a coach, some of my juniors have lost motivation because regional league are still suspended. I try my best to keep in touch with my players and encourage then to exercise in the safety of their homes so that when football returns, they are healthy and fit to play.”

What advice can you share with people in terms of health and fitness?

“I deal with mostly ladies in my line of work and I always tell them that beauty should be from the inside out. There is nothing more appealing or sexier than a fit lady. Exercise, eat healthy then accessories that body with a beautiful hairstyle. Ladies just love strong men so exercise should be part of our lives. This way our bodies will be strong enough to beat COVID-19.”