Should You Walk Away From Your Relaxer? – How I Navigated The Return To Natural Decision

When that question comes knocking should I do this natural thing or not, many people are left confused or even unsure if this is the right decision for them.

I think it’s a common feeling mainly due to the fact it’s really a life changing decision. I remember as my friends one by one were returning to natural and every time I turned around I saw another natural in public I would get more and more curious about my own natural texture.

I remember thinking maybe my texture is like hers, or maybe hers or those girls or even none of them. Did it even matter what my texture was?

My creative juices definitely began to flow as my thoughts bounced around at the idea of returning to natural. At this time I was also a bit burned out with relaxers in general, the feeling of “here comes that new growth” and the need to cover it up with another relaxer.

For me becoming natural wasn’t an overnight decision but there was a point when it definitely became crystal clear which route God wanted me to take.

We all have a different purpose and journey in life so this isn’t a rant to force anyone into breaking up with a relaxer. This is just my personal thoughts from my own decision making experience.

What does it really mean to return natural? I am sure that it varies as it can mean many things to different people. I know for me it was a combination of self-discovery, mixed with embracing my natural texture, topped off with desiring a healthier lifestyle including not putting harsh chemicals on my head into my body.

I was engaged and planning our wedding and the thought came to mind, should I just stop getting relaxers and see what happens or should I just cut off all my hair now?

I started to do some research and read many stories about why a lot of naturals decided to return natural and even though there were many different reasons there was one common denominator that started becoming clear.  They all desired to be free.

Would it be as freeing for me as it was for them? What would my hair journey be like? One thing was for sure, it was going to be a bold move one worth telling the closest people I had around me.

I remember telling my fiancé what I wanted to do and accomplish and he was more than supportive and assisted me in this wonderful transition.

Supportive friends and family are important and helpful during this time. I also asked my natural hair friends questions and thoughts about returning natural which helped a great deal. It helps to have a support system whether in your family or online.