Waist beads are strands of beads made from crystal, bone, seeds, glass, metal and wood worn around the waist and stomach as jewellery. Waist beads have been around for thousands of years and can be traced back to the 15th century. They were called “girdles” and women in ancient Egypt wore them as a status symbol. Nigerian waist beads are believed to be made popular by Yoruba people. However, different people wear waist beads for different reasons. Some of which include:
1. For adornment
Most people who wear Nigerian waist beads wear them for beauty’s sake. It is the same reason why people wear necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.
2. For ceremonial purposes
Waist beads are a part of the ceremonial outfits of some tribes. Women wear them during cultural activities like traditional weddings and chieftaincy title ceremonies to accentuate their overall look.
3. As a symbol of love
Some people wear rings as a symbol of love for their partner and others wear waist beads instead or both.
4. Weight awareness
Some people wear Nigerian waist beads so they can control their weight
5. For religious purposes.
This is common among people who practise African traditional religions. Some people wear it because they believe it helps them get pregnant and protects the unborn baby as well.
Different colours of waist beads are associated with specific meanings. They include the following:
- White: Purity and truth.
- Gold: Wealth and good health.
- Blue: Healing and harmony.
- Black: Protection and power.
- Red: Confidence, passion and sexual energy.
- Green: Prosperity, fertility and abundance.
- Purple: Spirituality and royalty.
- Yellow: Energy and joy
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