As a business owner, my mind is always running. There’s always something to plan, fix, or figure out—another decision to make, another opportunity to chase. Even when I try to relax, my brain won’t shut off: What’s next? What if? How can I make this better? It’s exhausting, but that’s the reality of building something you care about.
But no matter how crazy the week gets, there’s one thing I always look forward to: my Sunday morning reset ritual. It’s not just a routine—it’s my lifeline. And it revolves around three simple yet refreshing elements: onsen, Imabari towel, and green tea.
My Onsen Escape
For those unfamiliar, an onsen is a traditional Japanese hot spring, often surrounded by nature and designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. The second I sink into that steaming water, everything else just... fades away. The heat works its way into my body, and the quiet of the space makes me stop. No emails, no spreadsheets, no mental to-do lists. Just me, the water, and the moment. It’s like hitting a reset button, and honestly, I need it more than I like to admit.
The Comfort of an Imabari Towel
When I step out of the onsen, that’s when the real magic happens. There’s nothing like wrapping up in my Imabari Towel—a light, absorbent, and unbelievably soft Japanese towel. Made in Imabari City, the towel capital of Japan, it’s my go-to for comfort. More than just drying me off, it holds onto the warmth, letting me carry that after-onsen glow a little longer. There’s something special about the way it feels against my skin—like a small piece of comfort I can take with me.
Sipping Green Tea
Then comes the favorite part: a warm cup of green tea. I’ve always been particular about my tea, and nothing compares to the smooth, earthy flavor of high-quality green tea. It’s the perfect balance of refreshment and comfort, giving me just enough caffeine to feel awake without the jitters or dehydration that coffee sometimes brings.
But it’s more than just a drink—it’s a ritual. The earthy aroma, the way the warmth spreads through my body, the quiet moment to reflect—it’s the final piece of the puzzle. Green tea has a way of grounding me, reminding me to slow down and savor the present.
Create a Ritual That Feels Like Yours
It’s funny how rituals like this become such a big part of who we are. They’re small, sure, but they hold so much meaning. It’s about giving yourself permission to slow down and savor the moment. It’s simple, but it’s perfect. And I wouldn’t trade it for anything
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck in the grind, I encourage you to create your own reset ritual. It doesn’t have to involve an onsen—it just needs to be something that helps you pause, recharge, and reconnect with yourself. Maybe it’s a morning walk, a warm bath, or a quiet moment with a cup of tea. And if you’re looking for a way to elevate that experience, I can’t recommend an Imabari towel and a cup of green tea enough.
Whatever your ritual is, make it yours. Give yourself permission to slow down, even if it’s just for a few minutes. You deserve it.
About the Author : Yoshiharu Shiozawa
Yoshiharu Shiozawa is the founder of Japarcana, a company dedicated to introducing premium Japanese products to the world. Inspired by his experiences abroad, where he often gifted Imabari towels from his hometown as tokens of appreciation, Yoshiharu recognized the potential of these high-quality towels on the global stage.
This led to the establishment of Japarcana, aiming to make Imabari towels, renowned for their softness and absorbency, accessible worldwide.
Tea & Tranquility Giveaway
We are happy to be doing a joint giveaway with Japarcana.
Win a Japarcana Luxury Towel Set & a Award-Winning Japanese Green Tea or our Sumiyake Coffee
To participate in the giveaway, follow the steps below.
- Follow @japarcana_towel and @shopDreamofJapan on Instagram
- Follow @japarcana_towel and @shopDreamofJapan on Facebook
- Like the giveaway post on Instagram, tag a friend & share your favorite self-care ritual in the comment section.
- Like the giveaway post on Facebook, tag a friend & share your favorite self-care ritual in the comment section.
- Bonus: Share to your Stories!
- Extra entry: Sign up for the Japanese Green Club Newsletter here
- Extra entry: Sign up for the Japarcana Newsletter here
Good luck, and thank you for participating!
The giveaway ended on April 30, 2025.
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