Entry #48: 2022 March 31

Every season, I study under a tea farmer and blender who goes into the fields and mountains to pick and prep and package everything by hand. He does this out of the pure interest in bringing tea back into the cetner of the Japanese home. With the invention of bottled teas sold in every corner of Japan, as well as preference toward coffee, proper steeping and enjoyment of tea has taken a backseat in Japan. But the health benefits, both physical and emotional, as well as the health of the natural world around us is very much dependent on our relationship with tea. When was the last time you steeped a pot of tea? It might be the perfect pairing to your meditation practice, journaling practice, or for the daily toilet.

♡ momoko

Microseasonal Stars

March 31 - April 4

Spring > Spring Equinox > Thunder Calls

What is your anthem? The music that empowers you.

Entry #47: 2022 March 28

What a joy! These cherry blossoms came into full bloom in about 24 hours. There was one day of rain and harsh winds so I ended up staying in for an entire day, and it those 24 hours, the cherry trees across Tokyo went from buds to full on blooms. Sakura are always a great reminder as to how fleeting it all is. We are always a winner if we choose to savor each and every fleeting moment. Now. Now. Now. Because in the next 24 hours, these cherry blossom will become ha-zakura or leaf sakura, as the petals fall away and vibrant leaves begin to take their place. My personal favorite phase of cherry blossom season are these ha-zakura. This beautiful picture of ever-changingness and how this motion, this very powerful motion of the natural world is expressed visually for us to understand. And as such, we too are in constant change.

♡ momoko

Microseasonal Stars

March 26 - 30

Spring > Spring Equinox > Cherry Flowers Blossom

What’s that one thing you notice that only exists this week?

Entry #46: 2022 March 22

This past week, I’ve been in Kyoto, as it is Ohigan. Ohigan takes place at the Spring Equinox and the Autumn Equinox, which are both bank holidays. Spring Ohigan is about the circle of life, that as animals that are part of the natural world, our livelihood is an absolute gift. We are here because of everything else. The entire ecosystem allows our existence. And so we take a moment to visit our family grave and express gratitude for letting us be here just as we are. I went on behalf of the people of my generation: my sister, my brother, and my cousins. Purifying the grave stone with temple water and setting new flowers for my ancestors. It was the most beautify Spring day. Crisp air, but a warm breeze, and bright blue skies. It was the most perfect setting to share, with all of the family members who can before me, my personal little updates.

♡ momoko

Microseasonal Stars

March 21 - 25

Spring > Spring Equinox > Sparrows Nest

What are the ways in which you make a house, a home?