Thinking about going natural???
June,8 2012
Contemplating a more natural look and way of life these days? Are you beginning to realize that "relaxing" your hair is becoming a thing of the past, and would like to see what your hair looks like in its natural, healthy state? Not Sure? Okay, do you seem to notice natural girls out in public and wonder..."Where does she find the courage to wear her hair that way." Maybe? Well, these were some of the things that came to mind during my relaxed days, and finally I decided that it was time to change. I was beginning to experience a lot of scalp problems, my hair was shedding excessively, and my skin constantly broke out. I decided to do a BC (big chop). A big chop is when all of your relaxed ends are completely trimmed off. The first glance in the mirror after my hair cut was one that I will never forget! From that day forward, I have never looked back! You have to be mentally prepared in making the decision to become natural & ready for the journey ahead; and willing to face many obstacles along the way. Remember that we have been programmed into thinking that
Relaxed hair=Beautiful+Healthy+Desirable
Natural hair (with all its kinks, coils, and curls)=Bad+ Unmanageable+Unwanted...
Everything has its pros and cons, and becoming natural is no exception. Now with relaxers containing chemicals like:
Sodium Hydroxide
Lithium Hydroxide
Perm Salts
Formaldehyde
and other chemicals proven to cause fibroids, cancer, hair loss, dandruff, alopecia, itchy scalp and baldness...there doesn't seem to be many PROS to this product... Becoming natural takes a lot of patience and effort. You have to do a lot of research on your new texture. Research on how it grows, how to care for it, different products to use, and etc! The internet provides an array of information for you to use! I visit popular blogs like Curlynikki.com, BGLHonline.com and TheGoodHairblog.com! Also YOUTUBE! These sites are basically lifesavers for the newbie naturals! Now, I know you are thinking "Where do I begin" ? I suggest that you seriously consider a healthier lifestyle! You can decide to transition into becoming natural. Which is like taking baby steps towards a big chop. Here you would refrain from relaxers and let your texture grow out by wearing braids, sew-ins, wigs, or rods. And eventually BC after a few months. Or be daring and just BIG CHOP it all off & show off your confidence! No matter the choice, your hair, your body, and your soul will thank you! Becoming natural has made me realize how beautiful we are as black people! We were created with beautiful coils, kinks, and curls; and we should show them off! Who says something is wrong with being "nappy"? and that permanently "Straight" is the way to be? I definitely do not agree with societies standards for what a beautiful women should look like!!! With that being said, going natural is food for your soul. And when people see you out, your confidence, courage, and beauty will shine & glow naturally! That is why they stare!
So take that step, and do not let anyone stop you from embracing your GOD given beauty; become an inspiration for others to do the same!
Peace, Jessica
