konohana-noukaminsyuku

I came away feeling lighter in my head and legs, with a softer heart and fresh motivation. My mind and body felt balanced, and the day made me realize how much I need a mix of work and play. I was so glad to find a day retreat this close to home. If you're feeling worn out, I'd recommend it. I spent the day at Konohana Farmhouse Inn with close friends, stepping away from the usual routine and tuning into all five senses. We walked barefoot through the soft fields, tried a German music therapy technique, and had a cleansing lunch made by the food coordinator and her mother with seasonal organic vegetables from Konohana's fields. We also steam-distilled lemongrass for herbal water, which smelled wonderful, and made coasters with freshly picked lemongrass. To keep the sensory theme going, we ate the spiced radish curry with our hands instead of chopsticks or spoons, like people do in India. That felt so different, and was amazing. The Sugiyama couple, their daughter, and the mother who carefully grows the vegetables in the fields were all so lovely. I can see why people want to come back.

It was my first stay in a guesthouse, and I was really satisfied. The place seems ideal for a relaxed visit when you're staying with relatives in the countryside. The meals were delicious, and there were hands-on things to try, like roasting tea, cooking rice in a clay pot, and shaving bonito flakes. Kids would enjoy it, and I think city dwellers would too.

The proprietress and her husband were wonderfully hospitable, and the whole visit felt unhurried, far from the pace of ordinary days. I got to engage senses I don't usually use and enjoy a different flow of time. The next day, I realized I'd been rushing through life and ignoring my intuition, so I decided at short notice to fast. Walking barefoot during earthing felt great. I wanted to jump into the field, but I hadn't brought a change of clothes.

Lunch made with freshly picked vegetables was such a treat, and I loved taking in the fresh scent of lemongrass with all my senses. My stay at the farm guesthouse "Konohana" was a lovely experience. I'm curious what kind of event they'll plan next!