Meaning ❉ Māori Hair Traditions refer to the culturally significant practices surrounding hair, or makawe, among the indigenous people of Aotearoa, where hair was held as tapu, a sacred extension of the head. This historical perspective offers a grounding lens for understanding textured hair, emphasizing its inherent value and the necessity of respectful interaction. Such traditions illustrate an ancestral approach to hair care, akin to a systematized routine, prioritizing the hair’s preservation through consistent, gentle methods and the use of natural resources. For individuals with Black and mixed hair types, this provides a framework for implementing automated care principles, focusing on consistent moisture, deliberate detangling, and protective styling. Adopting this knowledge means cultivating a mindful posture toward hair, seeing it as a living aspect of self. This encourages gentle handling, regular nourishment, and protective measures against external stressors, translating into practical routines that support natural growth patterns and minimize breakage.
