Things have been so busy around the Amayori loft. I wanted to take a moment to say hello, as this will probably be the last journal entry of the year. I have always been someone who easily becomes overwhelmed, especially when it is work-related. I feel that so much in my life has changed and I have grown so much in the past year that getting frazzled, eating poorly, and eventually burning out as I normally would during the busy holiday season no longer serves me. With a bit of planning and commitment, I am planning for this to be the most enlightened holiday season yet. Here are a few ways I am staying centered and grounded this season. These...
Spring is such a beautiful time of the year. Moods are lifted, and there is a flow of positive energy that seems to permeate everything we do. I always love to revamp my bath routine at this time of year by adding a few spring-like touches to my evening rituals. Given below are a couple of seasonal tips that will help turn your time with Amayori’s products into a tranquil spa-level experience that will nurture every aspect of your being. Seasonal Spa Water: This time of the year, be creative with your spa water. Try infusing water with fresh strawberries and mint. During your soaks, keep a large glass on hand. This small, simple touch adds an ultra-luxe vibe....
As you are reading this journal post, I will be en route to Japan. One of the highlights of this trip is that I will arrive right in the middle of the beautiful sakura season. Cherry blossoms are a reminder of life’s fleeting beauty or mono no aware - the transience of life. I have also heard mono no aware described as capturing the essence of a long sigh. This concept of impermanence is not one we often think about in the West, where we strive for constant perfection and happiness. However, in Japan, this sentiment has been a strong part of the culture for quite a while. Cherry blossoms bloom quickly, almost as if they are coming out of nowhere. They...
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...
