SANCTUARY

The literal translation of the word sankofa is "It is not taboo to fetch what is at risk of being left behind." Here at Alaiyo, Sankofa is our acknowledgment that there is immense benefit and beauty in the gifts of our ancestors. Along with that acknowledgment comes our commitment to keep the spirit of these gifts alive, even as we reshape them to meet our modern needs. Our Sankofa strands are all made from the overflow of beads collected after each woman has said yes to the

This weekend was one for the books! Up early and into bed way too late, I relished in the presence of so much life magic.  I met or saw again so many brightly lit, beautifully open women. Those who have totally changed their lives using the power of mindfulness and waistbead wearing and those that believe beyond any doubt that they can and will. I met women with unshakable faith in nature's magical wisdom and women who are taking the magic that they know themselves to be and

There are things and people that we started this year off with that no longer serve us as well as insights and inspirations that have taken hold of us and won't let go. As we enter into this collective season of reflection, consider whether ceremony for the rising and falling is in order. For clients local to the Los Angeles area, Alaiyo will facilitate group and individual tying ceremonies. A container into which you can place all of your intentions. A space where there is w

When I say that 2017 has been a startlingly generous year, it is only because the adequate terms to convey the encounters, conversations, intimacies and emotional exchanges do not exist within the phrasing of our sometimes course language.  As the creative director, waist bead stringer, administrative support, driver and customer service rep for Alaiyo, I have gotten to immerse myself in the lessons and challenges that is hands - on service work. I have taught and gleaned so

We receive testimonies about the power of waist bead wearing regularly. These stories from women who are looking to lose weight, achieve greater focus or be more present and confident in their bodies and with their sexuality, are all reasons for us to celebrate and keep at this work. But there is a special kind of glee that is born when we get the chance to see a version of so much amazing progress and inspiration with our own eyes. Gratitude and congratulations to our client