One day off with things I love: Yoga, reading, friendship
Tuesday, July 15, 2025
This morning I woke up early and rolled out my yoga mat in my room. The mat was cool against my feet as I began my stretches in the soft morning light. I moved slowly through each pose, breathing deeply and enjoying the quiet before anyone else was awake, and I felt my mind clear with each moment of balance and focus. Starting my day with yoga gives me a calm strength – a quiet confidence I carry through the day.
After yoga, I made a traditional breakfast of miso soup, tamagoyaki, yakimeshi and some vegetables (books about japanese breakfast on Amazon). The comforting aroma filling our kitchen and reminding me of childhood mornings when Mom cooked for us. I made some more to have something to eat for lunch as well. I listened to the egg sizzle in the pan as I whisked miso paste into hot dashi. The meal was humble but satisfying. As I ate, I felt grounded by these little routines. Taking time to nourish myself makes me feel responsible and independent – a small daily practice of self-care and tradition.
Quiet time in the garden
Later in the morning, I sat on the wooden porch (engawa) by our garden to read, enjoying the scent of summer flowers in the breeze. The garden was peaceful – I could hear distant birds and the soft trickle of water from my grandfather’s old stone fountain. I read a chapter of a novel called breast ans eggs by Mieko Kawakami about a young woman finding her path, and her hopes and struggles felt close to my heart (Buy on Amazon). In the quiet garden, I reflected on my own journey. Reading outside makes me feel connected to something larger – nature and ideas intertwining – inspiring me to stay curious and brave.
Being a friend of Yuki
In the afternoon, I met my best friend Yuki at a bright, buzzing mall downtown. We browsed shops and later sat with iced coffees at a cafe, talking about our futures. Our conversation reminded me that I’m not alone in figuring things out. We share similar hopes – to travel, build meaningful careers, and live life on our own terms – and it was empowering to say our dreams aloud. By the time I left, I felt proud of us: two young women boldly imagining a future beyond the traditional expectations of our mothers’ generation.
Now the day is winding down, and I’m writing by my bedroom window as crickets sing softly outside. Reflecting on today makes me feel peaceful and grateful. Each experience – the calm of yoga, the warmth of breakfast, the inspiration from my book, the encouragement of a friend – has gently shaped me. I know I have big dreams, but I also know to stay realistic and patient. In this quiet moment, I feel my own voice growing steadier and more confident. These simple moments are helping shape me into the woman I want to be. As I close this entry, I feel hopeful for tomorrow.
