Our Story
Black Woman Owned
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Black Woman Owned ⋆
“I knew I wanted to be rooted in my culture and help women connect to theirs in every step of their self-love journey.”
Our journey began when our founder, Tijera Moffett, discovered the beauty and significance of waist beads after exploring her femininity separate from a man. She was captivated by the intricate designs, the rich cultural history of the traditional adornments, and most importantly the thought to use them as a mindfulness tool. It was then and there that she wanted to share them with others.
Anhkara Natural waist strands are all inspired by creativity, tradition, and nature.We believe that waist beads are more than just a fashion accessory – they are a powerful symbol of femininity, strength, and spirituality.
At Anhkara Natural, we are passionate about helping women feel confident and empowered. Whether you are looking for a waistbead to celebrate a milestone, honor your heritage, or simply enhance your style, we have the perfect piece for you. Each waistbead is carefully crafted to reflect your unique personality and style.
Thank you for choosing Anhkara Natural– we are honored to be a part of your journey.
Black-Owned & Proud.
We are a proudly Black and women-owned business spreading appreciation and awareness of the practice of waist beads. Our take on cultural appropriation is that anyone (White, Black or otherwise) who takes up the practices or implements of another culture should at least take the time to learn something about that culture and most importantly credit them for their historical contribution. Check out our FAQs below to learn more about waist beads.
Why Anhkara?
Anhkara Nataural grew out of a journey of self discovery. The conversation of self-love and ackowledgement of self had been a discussion I hadn’t had with myself as a woman. I was first introduced to waist beads while studying Africana Studies in school as a way to inform my art. From there, grew this deep connection to the Motherland, and questions about my identity that hadn’t yet been answered, and are still wating to be discovered. Once I tied my first strand, I knew I wanted to be rooted in my culture and help women connect to theirs in every step of their self love journey.
Since tying myself, my waistbeads have seen me in a journey of weight release of over 140 lbs and a self-love journey that I can’t wait to share with women around the world.
Meet the Founder
Tijera Moffett is a painter, graphic artist, photographer, marathoner, and fitness professional living in Chula Vista, CA. She’s passionate about connecting Africa to its diaspora through storytelling and creative expression.
FAQs
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In West African tradition, waist beads are often worn by women as a symbol of femininity, sensuality, and spirituality. The colors and patterns of the beads may have specific meanings depending on the region and tribe, but generally, waist beads enhance a woman's natural beauty and protect her womb. In some parts of the Caribbean and the Americas, waist beads are also worn as a symbol of femininity and fertility. The colors of the beads may represent different spiritual energies, such as red for passion, green for abundance, or yellow for joy.
It's important to note that these meanings are not universal or standardized, and that waist beads may have different meanings and significance depending on the individual wearer's beliefs and intentions. Waist beads have become a movement of empowerment, a way for women to express themselves, set positive intentions, and celebrate their Divine feminine energy. Ultimately, the meaning of waist beads is a personal and subjective one and can be influenced by cultural, spiritual, or aesthetic considerations.
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Traditionally, once beads are tied, they are not removed, as they are supposed to stay on. You can bathe, exercise, and do just about anything in your beads. The nylon thread will dry quickly on its own after being exposed to water from bathing and swimming.
Waistbeads are often worn for a journey, like weight loss, or any intentional journey, so some prefer to cut them once they have served their purpose. If you want the option to remove your beads, we suggest tying them at your lower hip, so they can be removed overhead.
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Our beads are made with multiple layers of ultra strong non-stretch nylon thread to create a rope like effect for durability. Most of beads are glass seed beads, but also sell strands that have select crystals and stones.
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Traditionally waist beads are worn along the hips semi-permanently, which means they are worn while bathing, sleeping, swimming, etc. until they break or they are cut off. To tie them on, you simply place them around your waist, decide where you want them to sit, remove the excess beads and tie 3-4 knots. Once you are sure the beads are secure, cut off the excess string and beads. Be sure not to tie them too tight or else they will break! Leave enough room for sitting, bending and bloating.
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Our waist beads are traditional tie-on beads made with non-stretch nylon thread. You will receive a long strand of beads that you will then fit to your waist. You do not need to know your exact measurement or select a size when ordering tie-on beads. Our standard beads are approximately 55 inches in length and will generally fit up to a US size 20. If you would like a longer length, you can choose from our extended length 60 inch beads here.
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Tie-on waist beads can be cut and re-tied to fit if you lose a substantial amount of weight. Just be sure there is enough string to make 3-4 knots.
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You can wear as few or as many waist beads as you feel comfortable in. In some cultures, like the Akan in Ghana, it is a taboo to wear a certain numbers of strands, for example, wearing only 2. In general most people wear 1-3 strands.