On a mid-October evening, I found myself in Kyoto’s Four Seasons hotel, sinking into a cold plunge to reset my system. After experiencing jet lag, chronic insomnia, Lexapro withdrawal, and family stress, I was in desperate need of a reboot. Luckily, I was in Japan for a week of wellness with Apothékary, a herbal tincture brand. The trip couldn’t have come at a better time. The wellness industry in America is saturated with quick fixes and expensive products promising miraculous results. However, these trends often lead to excess and instant gratification, disconnecting us from nature and sustainable practices that truly support well-being.
Apothékary’s founder, Shizu Okusa, introduced us to Japanese herbal medicine called Kampo, emphasizing a holistic approach to wellness focused on aligning mind, body, and spirit. Unlike other supplement brands, Apothékary products are free from artificial chemicals and fillers, using potent ingredients like ashwagandha and ginseng in effective amounts. Okusa believes in getting back to nature and traditional practices rather than relying on synthetic compounds.
Throughout our time in Kyoto, we immersed ourselves in Japanese wellness practices. From making dashi broth with natural ingredients to participating in a matcha tea ceremony and forest bathing, every experience was designed to promote holistic well-being. We even meditated at Kyoto’s oldest temple and visited a mountainside onsen for relaxation. Studies show that spending time in nature can reduce stress levels and boost overall health.
In Japan, wellness isn’t just an individual pursuit—it’s woven into the fabric of everyday life. Communities gather for morning radio fitness sessions in parks, emphasizing the importance of communal well-being. While mental health remains somewhat taboo in Japan, there has been progress in addressing these issues. The trip to Japan reminded me that true wellness extends beyond personal health to include the well-being of our communities and the environment.
Returning from Kyoto, I realized that sustainable changes were necessary to improve my well-being. I’ve incorporated new practices like therapy, cooking at home, and meditation into my daily routine. The trip taught me that true wellness can only be achieved when we consider the impact of our actions on the world around us. By treating every living thing with care and consideration, we can create a more harmonious world for all.
