The Ritual of Slowing Down: Why Beauty and Hair Care Isn't a Race
Posted by YANI RICHARDS
Somewhere along the way, we were taught to rush our beauty — to treat our hair like a task instead of a sacred part of us.
But this season, I’m moving differently.
I’ve been returning to the rhythm of ritual — not just to maintain my hair, but to reconnect with it. To slow down enough to listen to what my strands and scalp need. And in that stillness… beauty always meets me.
Where Slowness Has Brought Me
When I slowed down, I stopped seeing wash day as a burden and started seeing it as a space for healing.
- I began massaging my scalp, not just applying oil.
- I paid attention to hydration — both in my products and my life.
- I created rituals that felt less like chores and more like care.
And honestly? My hair flourished… but so did I.
Slowing Down with Hair Rituals That Hold You
Here’s how I’m reclaiming my rhythm — and how you can, too.
1. Pre-Wash Scalp Check-In
Before anything touches my hair, I check in with my scalp. I ask, “How are we doing?” If there’s tension, itchiness, or dryness, I know it’s time for extra love. That’s when I reach for Nature’s Growth Oil — a nourishing blend that stimulates growth while grounding the senses.
→ Massage in slowly with fingertips. Let it sit before wash day. Your roots deserve your patience.
2. Post-Wash Lock-In
Once my strands are cleansed and conditioned, I seal in the moisture with Island Breeze — our 100% Natural Coconut Oil, Castor Oil infused nourishing spray made with the sweet smelling lavender from my garden. It gives the hair softness, shine, and that breezy “just stepped onto an island” feeling and smell.
→ Great for damp, dry or wet hair. Comes in full size and mini.
3. Midweek Refresh & Scalp Soothe
When my scalp needs a midweek pick-me-up, I go for Liquid Gold — our golden hydration oil. It glides through parts, soothes itchiness, and adds life back into styles that need a little love between wash days.
→ Use on fingertips or a nozzle tip to reach roots easily. Can also smooth frizz on ends. Acts as a hair perfume, deodorizer, nourishing spray, chakra balancing spray and room/clothing spray.
4. Edge Care + Shine Moments
I use Jam Rock Jelly on my edges or fly aways when I want a nice soft hold without buildup. It’s my go-to for sleek ponytails or just a clean, moisturized look on finger coil days.
→ Rich in nourishing oils — It has incredible hydrating properties that leave my
hair moisturized from root to tip.
5.Starting Small Is Sacred Too
Not sure where to start? Or maybe you’re simplifying your stash? Our Hair Love Starter Kit is a gentle intro to the full SayByYani ritual — with minis of all your faves (except Nature’s Growth Oil). Whether you’re traveling or trying something new, it’s the easiest way to begin again.
→ Start slow. Start soft. Just start.
Prep, Not Panic: August’s Energy
This month, I’m not rushing to meet beauty goals — I’m preparing to meet myself.
August is the season of soft resets. Of easing into intention. Of clearing the noise and tuning into what your hair (and your spirit) really need.
So if your routine has fallen off… it’s okay.
If your strands feel tired… they’re just asking for your attention.
And if you’re overwhelmed… come back to one simple ritual that feels like peace.
You’re Not Late — You’re Just On Your Time
Your hair isn’t on anyone’s clock but yours.
Your ritual isn’t less valid because it’s slower.
Your glow begins when you decide to tune back in.
One Love,
SaybyYani
