Japan. Oh where do I even begin! I first visited this country when I was 16 years old, as my sister had moved to the quaint & beautiful town of Himeji for a year, so I decided to visit her! I didn't think much of it, I just missed my sister & wanted to see her. Little did I know it would sparked a love affair within my soul & I would continue to return to this country many times. 

Japan is a country I hope to live in for a short time later in my life. The culture, the people, the devotion to kindness, mindfulness & tradition, everything about this incredible country is truly profound. This was my first non work-related international exploration in 4 years, & even though I worked a little (life of a CEO!) it felt so restorative to simply be able to explore, wander & dream. I spent a lot of time out I'm nature during this trip, which was quite nurturing & healing. The last time I visited Japan, I wrote a song whilst walking through the Japanese Alps, on a snowy afternoon, & this time I wrote another song whilst wandering the streets of Nagano one windy evening. 

I do feel there is a bit of myth around where people can source inspiration. Unlike a lot of society, I do not choose to believe in 'escapism', I do not believe that only travels to far & distant lands & 'holidays' away from the 'daily grind' will spark inspiration, happiness & contentment. I believe that this is our ego always searching for more, instead of harbouring stillness & peace within our present moment; I've spoken more about this here. In saying that, I do believe that there is power & transformation in removing ourselves from our daily rituals & immersing ourselves in the zone of discomfort. Travel, for me, definitely puts my out of my comfort zone, for those that know me personally will know I am a home body at heart & enjoy the simple pleasures in life. 

I've had a people ask for my Japan recommendations or where I've visited, & even though I do not think I have even cracked the surface yet with this magical country, I will definitely share another post that details where I have been & what I would recommend :) 

With love & light, 

Fabienne x