As the name implies, a big chop is when a large amount of hair is cut off to start a new hair journey.

Usually a big chop involves removing chemically treated hair as a way to mark the beginning of the natural hair journey. It can involve the removal of chemically straightened (relaxed/texlaxed hair) or even color treated hair. But sometimes a big chop can even be used to refer to cutting off long locs (natural hair) to start anew.

More important than the name for removing a large amount of hair, is what it represents. A big chop is more than just a physical experience. It is also an emotional experience. Many of us are emotionally tied to our hair.. Our self esteem and even self worth can be intertwined with our hair. Major events in our lives can be connected to our hair.

A big chop can be a very memorable experience because of what it can represent. Use the big chop moment to celebrate yourself and to reflect on your life. It can be a profound moment when you look at yourself in the mirror after your hair is cut off and realize that you are letting go of the past so that you can start a new journey. The past has helped to shape you, but does not define you.