These three new perfumes are a direct result of my journey – my deepest dive yet into translating powerful Japanese words into evocative, meaningful fragrances. They are more than just scents; they are invitations to experience the profound energies held within these words, bottled for you to wear and cherish.
It feels like just yesterday that we were celebrating the launch of my new book Kotodama of Scent and the Kokoro Collection - a range of five beautiful essential oil blends crafted with immense passion and intention. I am so excited to unveil three new creations, born from the very essence of my book, Kotodama of Scent.
Kotodama is a beautiful, profound Japanese concept - the belief that words possess a spiritual power, a soul, that can influence our reality. In Kotodama of Scent, I explore how this Japanese wisdom can be applied to the art of perfumery, transforming words that nourish the soul into perfumes that uplift, ground and inspire.
These three new perfumes are a direct result of this journey – my deepest dive yet into translating powerful Japanese words into evocative, meaningful fragrances. They are more than just scents; they are invitations to experience the profound energies held within these words, bottled for you to wear and cherish.
Furusato literally translates to ‘hometown’ or ‘birthplace’, but its true meaning goes far deeper. It embodies the nostalgic feelings, the comfort and the sense of sanctuary associated with the place we call home – not just a physical location, but a feeling of refuge, safety and belonging.
At the very heart of Furusato is vetiver. This incredible essential oil, with its deep, earthy and grounding aroma, perfectly embodies a connection to one's roots. It evokes the feeling of returning to solid ground, to the embrace of nature and to the cherished memories of a simpler, idyllic country life. Blended with serene woods, warm resins and a whisper of nostalgic florals and spices, Furusato is a fragrant journey back to your most cherished emotional landscape. It's a hug in a bottle, a reminder that home is always with you.
Heiwa is the beautiful Japanese word for ‘peace’. In a world that often feels chaotic, finding our inner peace is more important than ever. Designed to soothe the spirit and quiet the mind, this perfume embodies tranquillity.
The signature essential oil in Heiwa is the exquisite yuzu. This vibrant yet profoundly calming Japanese citrus fruit offers a unique aroma that is both uplifting and serenely balancing. It promotes a sense of clarity and harmony, perfectly embodying the concept of Heiwa. I've blended yuzu with the vivacious scent of pink grapefruit and lemon; the meditative woody aromas of hinoki wood and sandalwood; the deep spiritual scent of frankincense, and the soothing scents clary sage and lavender to create a perfume that acts as your personal sanctuary, a reminder that peace resides within.
Shibumi is a profound aesthetic principle in Japanese culture, signifying a beauty that is subtle, unobtrusive and possesses an inherent, timeless elegance. It’s the beauty found in understated refinement, in what is felt rather than overtly displayed.
The heart of Shibumi is oakmoss absolute, an essential oil that perfectly embodies a connection with the elegance of the natural world. Its deep, earthy and sophisticated aroma speaks of ancient forests and quiet strength. There is a profound depth and yet subtle beauty to Shibumi. Oakmoss has been carefully blended with florals notes of rose and geranium, warm and evocative spice notes of ginger and coriander seed; the serene woody scents of hinoki and Virginian cedarwood, and verdant green notes like galbanum and violet Leaf. Shibumi is for those who appreciate a beauty that unfolds slowly, revealing its depth and grace over time. It is the essence of quiet confidence, an elegant whisper rather than a shout.
These three perfumes represent a deeply personal journey into the soul of words and the power of nature's essences. Each bottle holds a piece of Japanese wisdom, translated into a wearable art form designed to connect with your own inner emotional landscape.
It is my hope that they will nourish your soul, bring you comfort and inspire a deeper appreciation for the subtle beauty of life. I invite you to explore Furusato, Heiwa and Shibumi and discover which kotodama resonates most deeply with you.