Winter beauty regime
Snow isn't common to all of Japan in winter, but the season's cool temperatures and dry air feature throughout the country.
As a result, the body's metabolism slows and the skin dries out.
It is Japanese custom to bathe every day, usually at night. Washing is followed by a leisurely soak in hot water. Bathing improves blood circulation and removes the fatigue of the day, while also encouraging a good nightﾕs sleep.
A range of modern products can be added to the bath, however dried mandarin skins have long been used for their fresh scent as well as sake, for its moisturising qualities.
There are also many hot springs in Japan, which are highly effective in moisturising skin.
Japanese women use steam from a hot bath to massage their face, speeding up the skinﾕs metabolism and removing impurities from the skinﾕs pores. Although modern facials are now readily available, steam massages have long been a tradition for Japanese women. Massages are now said to tone muscle and make one look slimmer, so they are even more popular.
Text courtesy of Shiseido Australia
www.shiseido.co.jp/e/index.htm
(Photo: JNTO)
Shiatsu
Shiatsu massage uses finger pressure to loosen people's muscles and improve blood circulation in their bodies.
Improving circulation alleviates pain and can prevent future problems with internal organs.
Shiatsu, which directly translates as ''finger pressure'', uses the sensitivity of the fingers and thumb to seek out pressure points and muscle tightness all over the body. Since fingers alone can detect such problems, this form of massage was once a common profession for blind people.
A person's blood circulation deteriorates over time for many reasons, of which bad posture is considered to be one of the most significant. People working in offices often experience tight shoulder and neck muscles from sitting at their desk and typing away all day long, five days a week. Those who have a habit of folding their arms are also obstructing blood circulation, sometimes leading to pain in their stomach. Sitting or lying on a sofa for long hours in a bad posture can also be the source of bad circulation. Holding a book using both hands, with elbows sharply bent, obstructs blood flow to the neck and head and can sometimes lead to migraine headaches.
Shiatsu massage loosens those tight muscles that are often a product of bad posture, restoring blood circulation all over the body.
Tokyo fashion
Nautical style, skinny-leg jeans and floral prints are in fashion this summer .
Summer fashion in Japan this year is all about having fun. With gorgeous bold prints and bright colours, you'll find "sailor chic" a stylish way to dress. Stripes in white and pale blue and other nautical inspired designs are captivating the young and beautiful of Tokyo.
Look lean and casual in skinny-leg jeans accompanied by slim-cut t-shirts this season. Tuck your jeans into calf-hugging boots and dress your top with a close-fitting blazer. Or try the more feminine look of retro-style floral dresses or skirts matched with tights and boots. Guys are wearing cargo pants and jeans teamed with colourful retro-design
shirts.
For girls
Floral skirts
Look cute this summer by pairing a vibrant floral skirt with a neutral-coloured top. White, beige or different shades of blue will give your look a cool summery feel. Throw in some tights or boots to dress-up the look and accompany with an oversized tote bag.
Design by
LEELA Harajuku Shop
Address:4-28-5 Jingumae,
Shibuya Ward, Tokyo 150-0011
Tel: +81 3-5770-3905
http://leela.co.jp
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For guys
The fitted look
The latest look for guys this summer is matching a fitted t-shirt with skinny-leg jeans. The jeans now come in lots of great washes, lengths and styles. Dress-up your look further with a white striped shirt, or give it a more punk or rockabilly look by accessorising with a wristband and layering two belts. Smart, sleek boots will finish this look off beautifully.
Design by 666
Address: Harajuku H Bldg., 4-26-22
Jungumae, Shibuya Ward, Tokyo 150-0001
Tel: +81 3-5411-0988
http://www.666jp.com |
Healthcare & Massage
WARAKU
 A Japanese-style clinic located in Chatswood which offers a range of services including remedial massage, authentic shiatsu massage, aromatherapy, reflexology, natural health care and acupuncture.
Ground Floor Shop 5 & 49, Lemon Grove Shopping Centre
427-441 Victoria Ave., Chatswood NSW
Tel: (02) 9410-3413 / 9410-2258 Web: www.waraku.com.au
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