When a Navajo woman reach the age of maturity and receives her first menstrual, she starts
her ceremonial journey, mimicking Asdzáá 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 Asdzáá Nádleehé, Changing Woman. Asdzáá Nádleehé is the
definition of a traditional Diné (Navajo) woman.
This brand aspires to reclaim the traditional Diné & to motivate others to preserve the traditions
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 and all her beauty. Her
strength, pride, beauty, & culture is the inspiration. Crafted by the descendants of Asdzáá Nádleehé, she will remain traditional & forgiving.
Sáanii Yázhí is a blend of homegrown ideas, wisdom, strength, resilience, & healing from the
hands of Naakaii Dine'é, (Wandering People Clan), women. Every piece resembles the morning offering, blessing you. With every stitch, every weave, every creation,
there is a prayer & positive thought to it. Sáanii Yázhí aspire to bless you with beauty, all around, by adding to your individual style with
pieces of tradition.
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 take that as a compliment!
Ahxéhee dóó adáa aholyá.
