205. The Japanese Art of Living Seasonally with Japanologist Natalie Leon

Natalie Leon is a British Japanologist with a Master’s Degree in Japanese Studies who has dedicated her life and career to sharing Japanese culture with the world and with the United Kingdom. Her passion lies in seasonality, and celebrating every day. She recently published “The Japanese Art of Living Seasonally” which is her love letter to seasonal living in Japan. Natalie shares her deep passion for Japanese culture, a journey that began with a childhood fascination with a kimono. The conversation explores various aspects of seasonality in Japan, such as the concept of 'shun' (eating what's in season), 'kisetsukan' (awareness of the seasons), and 'kasane' (color layering). Natalie also delves into the folklore and spirituality of Japan, illustrating how these traditions are interwoven with everyday life. If you enjoy this episode, Natalie's new book, “The Japanese Art of Living Seasonally: An Invitation to Celebrate Every Day” serves as a loving invitation to incorporate these enriching practices into our daily lives.

Topics Discussed

· Japanology

· Seasonality

· The unique

· Kimonos, Tea Ceremony, Matsuri, and other Annual Ritual Festivals

· Japanese Textiles & Symbolism

· The Idea of Vintage

· Art & The Connection and Elevation of Nature

· John Ruskin the Art Critic

· The Mingei Art Movement

· William Morris Designs

· Kisetsukan (季節感)

· Shun (旬)

· Takanoko / Bamboo Shoots

· Western Culture’s Impact on Japan

· Kasane no Irome (襲の色目)

· The Significance of Cherry Blossoms

· Dealing with Rituals, Spirituality, and the Supernatural

· Shintoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism

· The 4 Japanese Seasonal Goddesses

· The Climate & Ecosystem of Japan

· Forest Bathing in Yakashima

· Marie Kondo & Minimalist, Zero-Waste Culture

· Furoshiki (風呂敷)

· Kamikatsu - Japan’s Zero Waste Town

Episode Resources:

· Read “The Japanese Art of Living Seasonally: An Invitation to Celebrate Every Day” by Natalie Leon

Connect with Natalie Leon:

· Website: https://www.natalie-leon.co.uk/

· Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_natalie_leon/

· Newsletter: https://natalieleon.substack.com

· Links: https://linktr.ee/sakura_sister_

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Original music by John Kingsley. Editing and podcast production by Fast Forward Production.

🌿 The Good Dirt Producers:

· Wendy Gray