What It’s Like Living In The Netherlands With Natural Hair

Known for its tasty cheese, lenient marijuana-smoking policy, and the Red Light District, one thing I know is that I love The Netherlands for its diverse culture. I enjoy hanging out with my friends and learn more about their cultures and religions, as well. However, there is something else about the Netherlands which I find amazing: approximately 49% of the population here has naturally curly hair!

How Vegetarianism Changed My Natural Hair

“If you would speak with a vegetarian you often hear stories of how great the life of a vegetarian/vegan is and how their skin and hair improved. Well, in my case that is partly true.”

How my natural hair journey changed my self-consciousness

Approximately four years ago I decided to transition my hair, I wanted to play with the elasticity of my hair: better yet I wanted to rock my natural hair. However, I was not fully prepared for this journey. My expectations were far above the reality. I expected my hair to be 3a, long and very easy to take care of. I already imagined myself walking through the streets; receiving compliments from everyone and doing some hair flips. But then I bumped into reality.

Personal: My battle against chronic anxiety

Unfortunately I suffer from anxiety which is something that I learned to live with during the last few years. This topic is something which is not really spoken about within our community although it is important. I believe it is partly because some cultures immediately mark these people as crazy. On the other hand, it is not really something people feel comfortable talking about. I would like to communicate to the latter group: pay no attention to such ignorant judgment and speak up.

Transitioning and My Dominican Family

I remember telling my mother that I wanted to stop relaxing my hair as if it was yesterday. My mother was not really thrilled with this decision and asked me to reconsider my choice. During her teenage years she started relaxing the hair of her mother, sisters and herself. However, as soon as she reached mid-thirties she decided to transition, because her hair was loosing density. Her background made it more difficult for me to understand why she did not accept my decision.