About Sáanii Yázhí

When a Navajo woman reaches the age of maturity and receives her first menstrual, she starts her ceremonial journey, mimicking Asdzą́ą́ Nádleehé, Changing Woman (a Navajo Goddess or Deity). The purpose of the ceremony, and mimic, is for the young woman to obtain the characteristics and attributes of Asdzą́ą́ Nádleehé, Changing Woman.

Asdzą́ą́ Nádleehé is the definition of a traditional Diné (Navajo) woman. 

This brand aspires to reclaim the traditional Diné & to motivate others to preserve their traditions, and language, by practicing the acts of the matured Diné women. Occasionally there will be a hint of the modern. The goal for each piece is to symbolize Diné women. Her strength, pride, beauty, & culture is the inspiration. Crafted by the descendents of Asdzą́ą́ Nádleehé, she will remain traditional & forgiving.  

Sáanii Yázhí is a blend of homegrown wisdom, strength, resilience, & healing from the hands of generations of Naakaii Dine'é, (Wandering People Clan), women. Every piece resembles the morning offering, blessing you. With every stitch, every weave, every craft, there is a prayer & positive thought to it. 

Sáanii Yázhí means little old lady in Diné bizaad (Navajo language). Shimásaní, my grandma, calls my sister, and I, little old ladies. She refers to us as, sáanii yázhí, because of the way we are as young women. We carry ourselves with much maturity, as much maturity as the older women in our culture. My sister and I also practice the acts of the very matured women. I definitely take that as a compliment! 

Ahxéhee. Adáa aholyá.