Decolonize Your Wardrobe
Western nations buy, wear, and discard at a dizzying pace. Much of that waste end up in places like Ghana, where neighborhoods have become dumping grounds for second-hand clothing. Accra’s Kantamanto Market is a perfect example – once a place for locals to find quality second-hand goods, now overwhelmed with mountains of discarded fast fashion, much of it made from synthetic fibers that won’t break down. The results are overflowing landfills, polluted beaches, and a struggling local economy.
Sustainable brands focus on eco-friendly materials, fair labour, and reducing their carbon footprint. These clothes are often made to last longer, meaning you won’t need to replace them as often. It’s better for the planet, better for workers, and aligns with a conscious lifestyle. But sustainable clothing often comes with a higher price tag. It’s a great investment if you can afford it, but not everyone can. And even then, do we really need to keep buying more, even if it’s eco-friendly?
Living in a capitalist world while trying to be anti-capitalist isn’t easy. It’s never a 100% thing. But we can make mindful choices where we can 🙏🏽 I believe some of our misalignments and mental health issues today stem from living in a state of awareness that our way of life isn’t right.
Buying second-hand, upcycling, or swapping clothes are great options. But even then, we need to ask ourselves: Are we using second-hand as an excuse to keep consuming, or truly embracing less is more?
In Indian yogic philosophy, there’s a principle called Aparigraha – non-possessiveness. It teaches us to let go of what doesn’t serve us and break free from the constant need for more. It’s about focusing on what’s essential.
So, before you click “buy”, ask yourself: Do I really need it, or am I just feeding a habit? Decolonizing our consumption means challenging the habits that keep us stuck in cycles of overconsumption. It’s about choosing consciously, respecting people and the planet, and aligning our actions with our values - both on and off the mat. 🌱
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