My Underarms Led Me To Minimalism
- Mixed/synthetic fibers were inhibiting my body's ability to detox and irritating my underarms
- Understanding what fabrics and products work for my underarms led me to minimalism
- A simple liquid roll-on with coconut oil and essential oils is the best application for me
The modern expression of minimalism invites us to simplify and purify so that we arrive at a fuller life experience. Minimalism as a life practice would have found me eventually, given my desire to embody simplicity in an increasingly complex world. Though I must give my underarms the credit for arriving at this stage of my life. Yes, not a very romantic way to decide on minimalism, but let me tell you how it came to be.
It wasn’t until 2017 when I learned my body negatively reacted to certain fabrics I wore. From irritated skin to body odor, these issues were all related to the interaction of my skin with specific textiles. Through experimentation, I found out that mixing synthetic and natural fibers were not good for me, especially not near the major sweat glands. When I wore pure natural fibers, I faced no irritations, and body odor was minimized. The mixed and synthetic fibers were inhibiting my body's ability to detox appropriately.
This was such good news to know there was a path of irritation-free underarms. However, it was also a news alert that I would have to adjust how I shopped for clothes. I became 'that woman' who reads every label on every item of clothing. Yet it was also a blessing in disguise - I fully embraced my passion for circular fashion. I did a complete overhaul of my closet, getting rid of excess and condensing down to several basics for where I am today. The de-cluttering of my closet has been a welcome step into a simpler way of life.
The rashes and irritation of my underarms eventually became overbearing. I was forced to find a better path. Managing body odor also led me to think through my daily routine, from the technical to the emotional. I needed to have a product I could discreetly carry around in personal bag. What would be kind to my skin and functional at the same time? There was a lot of time and effort spent seeking out the answers to this question. I’ve tried everything from a charcoal paste to natural ingredient spray to your standard deodorant stick. I'm happy to report nothing serves my underarms better than a good roll-on or homemade spray application.
Now I understand what product types I can and cannot use on my underarms. A liquid roll-on with coconut oil and essential oils is the best application for me. I apply two to three times throughout the day, depending on my activity level. I use coconut oil wipes in between applications if necessary. These wipes are so soothing to the skin and are a fantastic way to refresh, especially when traveling. Nothing more, nothing less.
As a principle of nature, we adapt, change, and evolve. I’m certain my body's response to the changing environment will continue to change. Despite this reality, I do believe that practicing the principles of simplifying and purifying is here to stay.