What are waistbeads?

Waistbeads are a traditional African adornment worn around the waist or hips. They come in variety colors and shapes and may also include stones, crystals, or charms. Waistbeads have been worn for centuries in many  African cultures. Recently waistbeads have gained popularity worldwide. Waistbeads can be a symbol of femininity, fertility, sensuality, and spiritual well-being.

• Intentions

Waistbeads can be completely intentional. Wrapping waistbeads around one’s waist can  lead to feeling sensual grounded and confident. Waistbeads can be  a constant reminder to be more aware and loving to your physical  self. Waistbeads often serve as a connection to culture. Wearers are encouraged to speak (outload or silently) your prayers/intentions while waistbeads are being tied. This places your intentions into something tangible. 

• Maturity

For some cultural traditions the waistbeads are often associated with womanhood, maturity, and growth. In Ghana, babies are traditionally adorned with waistbeads during their naming ceremonies.

• Weight awareness

Waistbeads are associated with body positivity. Wearers of all sizes and shapes can wear waistbeads to adorn their body. Waistbeads are often used to gauge weight transformations. People can use waistbeads to stay aware of any weight gain or loss in the waist or hip area. Our waistbeads do not stretch. If you gain weight, the waistbeads will sit higher on the waist or feel tight. If you lose weight, the waistbeads will feel loose and fall lower on the hips.

How to measure your waist & tie your waistbeads.

• To measure yourself  to wear  waistbeads first decide where you want your beads to rest on your body. (high waist, mid waist, high hips)
• Begin by wrapping a measuring tape or string around the area of your body that you want your waistbeads to rest. 
• To use a string, mark on the string where the two ends meet, then measure that length with a ruler. Do not wrap the string or tape too tight around your body. this may make our waistbeads too tight.
• We suggest that you measure the widest area of your waist. Doing so should give you plenty of space to decide how you want the waistbeads to rest on your body,

Here is a tying tutorial.