One of my greatest hopes with Amayori is that it will pique your interest and inspire travel to Japan. Should you ever make the journey, I highly suggest spending at least part of your trip at a ryokan (a traditional Japanese inn). The hospitality at these establishments is unlike anything else. From the second you arrive, it’s as if your every desire is anticipated and cared for before it even crosses your mind. Below are a few of the subtle, small touches that all contribute to a harmonious stay. I love to incorporate these into my home, especially during the holiday season. Seasonal Flowers and/or Art: Most ryokan rooms, and Japanese homes for that matter, have a special outlet called...
Earlier this August, I had an experience in Japan that shifted my perception on bathing. I was staying at the house of a friend’s family and, as in true Japanese culture, I was offered to use the bath first. In Japan, where almost everyone bathes every night, it is traditional for families and guests to share bath water (perfectly OK since in Japan one showers off first). I took my soak and lingered as I often do — for 30 minutes or so. When I got out of the bath I had a sense I did something wrong. I begged my friend to tell me if I made a cultural faux-pas. She pulled me aside and explained that I had...
Little moments of tranquility can have such a rejuvenating impact on our lives. There are so many ways to make everyday moments more beautiful and mindful. All that’s required is a bit of effort, creativity, and intention. I love to read after I meditate and exercise on weekend mornings. I just sit on my couch for 30 minutes or so and read whatever book currently is holding my attention, or I pick a random book and just dive in. What makes this moment go from “reading on the couch” to a weekend ritual is this: Tea: I always make a cup of tea to sit down and read with. Tea stops us and takes us out of the day-to-day. I...
For most of us, the summer heat is in full swing and it seems almost impossible to step out of the humidity. Here at the Amayori loft, we have a summer treat that is too amazing not to share. I also love to do this at home, especially after a day outside in the sun. Stepping out of the heat is really a two part process. There is the physical sensation of cooling down and there is also the mental or emotional aspect of allowing yourself the space and time to let your thoughts cool off. Many of Japan’s traditional homes are not equipped with air conditioning, and so surrounding oneself with cooling foods, drinks, fabrics and even design elements...
I write about this topic every summer. I just love it, and as the heat takes hold, the bath becomes my cooling oasis. When most people think of slipping into a bath at the end of a long day, they think heat and steam. The summer bath is so much more: it’s cooling, quenching, and rejuvenating. I have always believed that a summer soak is the next best thing to a refreshing dip in the ocean. Here is how to take a cooling summer bath at home: Set Up: Get a cool glass of water ready and place it near the bath. Bring in your iPad so that you can listen to Amayori’s music playlists while you bathe. Turn down...
