Hello my lovelies,
See what I did with the title? Wild-nature-natural? I’m so excited to announce that today officially marks my fifth year as a conscious natural. I am so honored and privileged to have this platform to share my ups and downs with you, and to document my hair journey in the hopes that it informs and inspires my fellow naturals.
What does 5 years of being natural mean to me?
I spent some time in the nature, contemplating on what being natural means to me. I have learned so much in my time as a naturalista, and I’d say above all else, if there’s one thing my hair journey has taught me is patience. Ladies, do any of the following scenarios sound familiar?
When you hydrate, deep condition, use a leave-in, follow up with coconut oil, seal with some shea butter and two days later your hair is dry…patience.
You prep for the most BOMB twist out/braid out for that swanky event you’ve been anticipating for weeks. You take down your hair and it’s the most epic FAIL in life…patience.
You’ve been detangling for what seems like eons, your arms are numb. A trip to the barber doesn’t sound bad right about now? Patience.
Casually browsing through your Explore page on IG, and you’re slapped in the face by all these natural baddies and with their flawless hair to match. Meanwhile you’re in sweats watching series on the couch…patience.
The day your hair behaves itself, you’re looking like the twist-out/braid-out/bantu knot-out goddess and you know it. Everything from your crown, to your brows all the way down to your shoes is- dare I say- on FLEEK! It then decides to rain the same afternoon!!!!!!! PATIENCE.
As for the hair, with my busy schedule juggling work, my blog and personal life, wearing my hair in up-do styles has quickly become a staple in my regime. My signature up-do style is extremely appropriate for even the most conservative work environments (of which mine is not!). Not to mention it serves as a great protective style throughout the week, sheltering my ends from daily exposure that can cause damage, splitting and breakage of the hair.
So ladies, how far have you come in your natural hair journey? What lessons have you picked up along the way? I’d love to hear, so please share in the comments below…
Happy Nappy Hair,
Yvette Kemi
Photography by: Wamwiri Kimachia
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8 Comments
I am impressed 5 years in the wilderness, I am really inspired to be strong.
Hi Lebo,
Thank you so much! I’m glad that i can be a source of encouragement for you on your journey.
xx
Congratulations Yvette! Giving us inspiration that we too shall get there. Love that updo!
Hi Silvia,
Aww…thank you so much! You too shall be here in no time!!
xx
Just stumbled on your blog! You favour Sharon Mundia of ThisisEss.
Can I just say how much I’m in awe of your hair! If this is what patience brings…it’s worth the wait!
Unconsciously natural for 5 years and consciously natural for 6months now, biggest lesson I learnt is that a proper regimen is what every natural needs. Consistency is key.
Hi Mimi,
Thank you so much! Patience is definitely the name of the game, at least that’s what my natural journey has taught me. But like the saying goes, patience pays!
I’m glad you found your way here, and I hope you’ll keep reading! I wish you all the best on your natural hair journey.
xx
Congrats for being 5 years natural. This is amazing!
I am 3 years natural now and I have learned so much about my hair. The most important thing I have learned is not to compare my hair to other Frolicious Beauties out there. Instead, I have learned to love my nappy hair.
Have you been natural all the time or did you do another big chop?
Hi Jen,
I agree completely. Comparing your hair to someone else’s can just cause unnecessary heartache. Instead, strive to embrace what you’ve been blessed with and I guarantee you’ll love it!
I’ve never had my hair relaxed, nor have I big chopped. However, my hair care practices prior to my journey as a natural were horrible. So i’ve been a conscious natural loving and caring for my hair the way it deserves for 5 years now.
xx