I began my journey of wearing and creating waistbeads in June 2020. During the start of what we know to be the Covid-19 pandemic, I began my personal journey of monitoring my intake and being mindful of how I treated my body. This included the foods that I consumed and I began a walking routine several times a week. During this time, I decided to research the history and benefits to adorning my waist with waistbeads. As I embarked on this journey of self-exploration, self-love and self-worth, adorning my waist with handmade waistbeads seemed fitting.
As an African tradition dating back to the 15th century, waistbeads are used to celebrate a right of passage into womanhood, fertility, sexuality, healing, spirituality, body shaping, protection and wealth.
As a plus size woman and the owner of Jae’s Jewels, our waistbeads are designed for all regardless of race, religion and/or body type. It is my belief that we should learn to accept and embrace our bodies in their current state, making any changes that WE deem necessary. We are the steward of this body that God entrusted us with and it is our responsibility to treat it with dignity and pride.
I will remain passionate about sharing my experience with those that are curious about the waistbead experience and those that are not familiar at all.
Remember, we are accepting and embracing our bodies at its’ current state, making any changes that WE deem necessary!