Wellness is about more than just looking good it’s about feeling whole, connected, and cared for.
Image: Tara Winstead/pexels
Self-care is having a major moment right now and with good reason.
Whether it’s a busy schedule or the pressures of everyday life, finding ways to recharge and nurture yourself is essential. But what if your self-care routine could be inspired by centuries of wisdom?
West African wellness practices, rooted in culture and tradition, offer powerful and natural ways to care for your body, mind and soul.
Ranyechi Udemezue, a passionate beauty writer, shared her transformative journey inspired by her grandmother Elizabeth, who was raised in Ghana.
“Wellness is an integral part of the culture my grandma grew up with,” Udemezue reflects.
These ancestral practices have become integral to her self-care routine, creating a rich tapestry of self-love and holistic health.
Raw shea butter
If you’re looking for a natural product to nourish your skin, raw shea butter is a must-have.
Derived from the nuts of the African shea tree, this creamy emollient is packed with vitamins A, E, and F. Shea butter is a powerhouse when it comes to hydration.
It deeply moisturises the skin, reduces inflammation and promotes elasticity. It’s not just about hydration, though. Shea butter is rich in natural fatty acids that repair the skin’s barrier, protecting it from dryness and environmental stress.
Regular use can even improve skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and stretch marks.
Black soap is especially effective for oily and combination skin types, but it works well for anyone looking to detoxify their skin naturally. Just be sure to follow up with a moisturiser, like shea butter, as it can be a bit drying if overused.
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African black soap
African black soap has long been a staple in West African households and for good reason. Made from plantain skins, cocoa pods and palm kernel oil, this soap is known for its deep-cleansing properties.
Black soap is especially effective for oily and combination skin types but it works well for anyone looking to detoxify their skin naturally. Just be sure to follow up with a moisturiser, like shea butter, as it can be a bit drying if overused.
A pinch of activated charcoal
Activated charcoal is another West African wellness hack that’s gaining popularity worldwide. Known for its detoxifying effects, it’s often used in skincare and oral hygiene.
Charcoal is used in toothpaste to naturally whiten teeth and remove toxins. It’s also great for face masks as it works to draw out impurities from the skin.
Dancing not only improves cardiovascular health but also boosts your mood and relieves stress.
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Movement therapy: dance your way to wellness
Movement is a huge part of West African culture and dance is more than just a form of expression it’s a powerful tool for wellness.
Dancing not only improves cardiovascular health but it also boosts your mood and relieves stress. You don’t need to be a professional dancer to reap the benefits. Just put on your favourite Afrobeat playlist and let your body move freely.
These wellness practices remind us that self-care doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It’s about using natural, accessible resources and honouring the traditions that have stood the test of time.
Wellness is about more than just looking good it’s about feeling whole, connected, and cared for.
