Locing My Hair During the Pandemic

HAPPY LOC ANNIVERARY TO MEEEEE. CELEBRATED TWO DAYS AGO AND IM STILL IN AWE OF MYSELF AND MY HAIR.

Something magical happened on 7/31/2020. For the first time ever, I experienced what it was like to be in true partnership with someone--MYSELF.
The pandemic brought many unexpected challenges, but for me, it also brought a beautiful transformation. I decided to start locing my hair.  I wanted to do it after graduation high school but something in me wasn't ready for the level of care of commitment it would take to maintain locs. I also had not fully prepared for the spiritual commitment, awakening, and attachment.

Weeks prior to the 31st I started with coils, and I absolutely hated my hair, so I combed them out. I needed to change my mind set for this commitment and the first thing was vanity, this idea that I needed to look good or be presentable constantly. I watched 100s of YouTube videos, listening to journey after journey. Finally, I was ready. I did it and I stuck it out this time. 

As the weeks turned into months, I found myself falling in love with my locs and the journey of learning how to care for them.
Discovering the Art of Locs I spent countless hours now watching YouTube tutorials, joining online forums, and experimenting with different techniques. The process was sometimes frustrating, but it was also incredibly rewarding. Each twist, each palm roll, and each new growth brought me a sense of accomplishment. I learned the importance of patience, consistency, and the right products. My locs became a symbol of resilience and self-care during a time of uncertainty.

Extending the Journey to others as my confidence grew, so did my desire to share what I had learned. Friends and family began noticing my locs and asking for advice. I was always happy to oblige. Now I maintain and style other people's hair--sometimes for fun, sometimes for more practice, and even sometimes for money. If you are hesitant to start your locs, JUST GO AHEAD AND DO IT NOW. You won't regret it. Since having locs I have transformed as a human. 

One of the first things I learned when I started my loc journey was patience. Locs don't form overnight. They go through stages—some messier than others—and require time to mature. In the beginning, I was eager to see them fully formed, but I quickly realized that this process couldn't be rushed. Just like anything meaningful in life, locs take time to develop. This taught me to be patient not just with my hair but with myself and the things I want to achieve.

My locs have gone through so many changes since I first started. They’ve grown, thickened, and taken on a life of their own. At first, I was nervous about how they would turn out, but as time passed, I learned to embrace the changes. It made me realize that change is a natural part of life. Just like my locs, I too am evolving. Instead of resisting, I've learned to go with the flow and trust the process.

When you have locs, especially in the early stages, there's a tendency to want them to look perfect all the time. I used to be obsessed with every stray hair and every bump. But locs are inherently imperfect, and that’s what makes them beautiful. They’ve taught me to let go of the need for perfection—not just in my hair but in all aspects of life. It's okay for things to be a little messy, a little out of place. That’s where authenticity lives.

Having locs has forced me to confront my own insecurities. Locs are bold and noticeable, and they challenge societal beauty standards. Wearing them means standing out and, sometimes, being subject to judgment or misunderstanding. Through this, I’ve learned to stand firm in my choices and accept myself fully. My locs are an extension of who I am, and embracing them has helped me embrace my true self.

Locs require regular maintenance, and over time, this routine has become an act of self-care. Washing, twisting, and nourishing my locs isn't just about keeping them healthy; it's about taking time for myself. It’s become a ritual that reminds me of the importance of caring for my mind, body, and spirit. This routine has taught me that self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.

One unexpected benefit of having locs has been the sense of community it has brought me. Locs are more than just a hairstyle; they’re a cultural and spiritual symbol for many people. I’ve connected with others who share similar experiences, and these connections have enriched my life. I’ve learned the value of community and the importance of sharing our stories and supporting one another.

Lastly, having locs has given me a sense of confidence I didn’t know I needed. They’re a statement of individuality and a celebration of my uniqueness. Through this journey, I’ve learned to take pride in what makes me different, to walk with my head held high, and to embrace the fact that I’m not like everyone else—and that’s a good thing.
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In the end, my locs have been more than just a hairstyle. They’ve been a teacher, guiding me through lessons of patience, self-acceptance, and personal growth. I’ve come to see them as a symbol of my journey—a journey that’s still unfolding, just like my locs. And as I continue to grow, so do they, reminding me that life is about the process, not just the destination.