Blessings of nature.

Spirit of the Wind 🍃

During this season, seeing the golden fruits in the garden makes me feel the blessings of nature.

The other day, I harvested yuzu.

The thorns on the yuzu are sharp.

Even with gloves for roses, if  I'm not careful, my hands will end up covered in scratches.

I spread persimmon leaves at the base of the yuzu for next year.

The persimmons have also shed their leaves and entered winter preparations.
It seems like we've finally caught up with the season.

Why do we take yuzu baths on the winter solstice?

Search results:

"Taking a yuzu bath on the winter solstice is a traditional purification ritual.
It is done to cleanse the body before inviting good fortune.
Yuzu, in season during winter, has a strong fragrance, and there was a belief that evil spirits would not approach such a strong scent. Additionally, since yuzu takes a long time to bear fruit,
it symbolizes the hope that one's long years of effort will bear fruit."

In our home, we use whole yuzu fruits.

Search results:

"When people think of yuzu baths, many envision this method.
Place several whole yuzu fruits in the bathtub.
To ensure that the components of yuzu are released effectively,
you can make incisions in the skin or puncture it in several places with toothpicks."

When there's a surplus of yuzu, here's what we do:

I thinly slice the yuzu peel and cut it into strips.

Put it in a sealed bag, flatten it, and freeze it.
When needed, unfold the amount you want.

Next, cut the yuzu in half and extract the juice.

Store the juice in the refrigerator.

After extracting the juice, make jam using a pressure cooker.

It looks like we'll be able to enjoy it for a while.

Today is the winter solstice. Tonight, I'll take a yuzu bath to cleanse myself,
ward off evil spirits,
and warm both body and soul.

I'm grateful for the ability to live peacefully every day.

I wonder if this tradition will continue in Japan for a long time.

The everyday life in Tokyo continues.