Perceptions of beauty(beautiful but strange)

From Mauritania we travel all the way to Kenya!

Source: Wikimedia Commons

When we think about Kenya, with regards to culture, tradition and related segments, one tribe that usually comes to mind is the massai tribe, and you guessed right.... They are going to be our focus for this episode.

The massai tribe is located in central and southern Kenya, and they can also be found in northern Tanzania. They are a proud and resilient tribe whose culture has stood the test of time. In this tribe being attractive is not left for the women folk alone; the men among them take body adornment equally as serious as the women-if not more.

source: Wikimedia Commons

For the Massai tribe, jewellery is a necessary component for attractiveness-intricately beaded necklaces, anklets, headresses, bracelets and chokers. Wearing these beads is deeply embedded in their way of life as it represents everything about the Massai tribe. Despite individual differences in the quality of jewellery worn, beads are common, easy to acquire and provide a standard of beauty that does not discriminate against the class structure in the Massai tribe.

The Massai tribe also have a culture of stretching or elongating their ears, although ear stretching is not particular to the Massai tribe alone. It is a tradition that has been passed down through the generations, and it is still practiced in the 21st century.
This may seem like body mutilation to some people but it is and has been an integral part of their culture. It is believed that the stretched ears is a sign of age and wisdom. Although this particular practice is being phased out, it is still practiced amongst the Massai tribes.

When it comes to hairstyles,both men and women go on traditional lowcut.They wear it proudly and it often represents their social status. The Massai warriors on the other hand are allowed to maintain long hair.The warrior's hair represents the Africans lion's strength and masculine beauty.

Something beautiful I read about the Massai is the fact that they believe morality or good behaviour is also a standard for being attractive; thus, implying that beauty is not only skin deep.

So if you asked an average Massai lady what she thought to be attractive in the opposite sex, she would probably give you an answer that is a blend of some physical attributes on one hand and behavioural characteristics on the other, which for her would make a complete man.

source: Wikimedia Commons

Culture is important because it expresses the beauty of our diversity. So much to learn from so many cultures around the world.

Sadly, we have to call it a day. 😅

But as it was on the last entry, be on the lookout for the next. 😎

I truly hope you enjoyed reading this. Have a brilliant day or night.

xoxo.

P.S: Incase you missed Episode One, you can read it here