A good night’s rest is essential for enhancing our overall quality of life. Japanese bedding has long been associated with quality sleep, thanks to its thoughtful design, natural materials, and adherence to the principles of simplicity and functionality. Key components like tatami mats, shikifutons, buckwheat pillows, and kakefutons come together to create a harmonious Japanese bedding sleep system.
In this blog, we’ll break down each component and explore the unique benefits of embracing the traditional Japanese way of sleeping.
Tatami Mats
Known for its durability and natural feel, tatami mats are commonly used in Japanese homes, tea rooms and temples to create a clean and minimalist feel. Tatami mats are traditionally made from tightly woven straw with a soft, textured surface. Easy to clean and highly breathable, tatami mats regulate moisture and airflow, creating a fresh and hygienic foundation for your bedding.
Shikifuton
Building on this breathable foundation, the shikifuton offers firm yet supportive comfort for restful sleep. A shikifuton is a traditional Japanese mattress filled with layers of cotton, offering firm support while remaining lightweight and foldable for easy storage, embracing a minimalist lifestyle. With numerous health benefits, it comes as no surprise that once switching over to a shikifuton, there is no turning back.
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Proper Spinal Alignment
Sleeping on a firm yet supportive surface, like a shikifuton, promotes proper posture by supporting the natural curve of the spine, preventing pressure points, and reducing strain on the neck, back, and hips. -
Breathable and Hygienic
Unlike traditional Western mattresses, which are often made from synthetic materials that absorb heat, sweat, and humidity, a shikifuton offers a clean and breathable alternative. Its natural materials promote airflow and temperature regulation, ensuring a cool and comfortable sleep environment when properly maintained. -
Promotes Better Sleep
The firm yet supportive surface of a shikifuton helps reduce tossing and turning, encouraging deeper and more restorative sleep. Adjusting to a shikifuton may take time initially, as your muscles and spine adapt to the new alignment. However, with consistency, many people find that their bodies adjust to the natural support. Embracing this traditional and minimalist sleeping method not only enhances physical well-being but also positively impacts mental health, preparing you for the day ahead.
Buckwheat Pillows
Complementing the shikifuton, buckwheat pillows provide personalized head and neck support. Their natural airflow regulates temperature, keeping the pillow cool and comfortable throughout the night. Additionally, buckwheat pillows are hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making them an ideal choice for those with allergies or sensitivities.
Kakefuton
To complete the system, kakefutons add insulation and comfort for a truly restorative sleep experience. Kakefutons provide superior breathability and insulation compared to other duvet options. They offer numerous health benefits that contribute to restful sleep and overall well-being.
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Temperature Regulation
One key element of restful sleep is maintaining a comfortable temperature throughout the night. Many people wake during sleep due to temperature discomfort—being too hot, too cold, or sweating excessively—all of which can disrupt the sleep cycle and reduce sleep quality. Our kakefuton is filled with hand-pulled, natural mulberry silk. The silk fibers regulate body temperature by equalizing warmth throughout the night, ensuring a comfortable and undisturbed rest.
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Hypoallergenic Properties
Made with untreated, natural silk, kakefutons are inherently hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites. Silk's moisture-wicking properties ensure a dry and comfortable sleep environment, ideal for those seeking lasting freshness and comfort.
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Easy Maintenance for Hygiene
Kakefutons are designed to be used with washable covers, making them simple to clean and maintain. This promotes a fresh, hygienic sleeping environment, which supports respiratory health and overall sleep quality. Explore our collection of removable covers to perfectly pair with your kakefuton for a stylish and functional addition to your bedding.
By combining the breathable foundation of tatami mats, the supportive comfort of shikifutons, the cooling properties of buckwheat pillows, and the warmth of kakefutons, the Japanese sleep system provides a holistic approach to rest and rejuvenation.
