2025 is the Year of the Snake (Hebi 蛇), a symbol rich with meaning and interpretation. In Japanese culture, the snake is regarded as both auspicious and protective, embodying themes of renewal and transformation. There is no better time to prioritize rest and renewal than at the start of the Lunar New Year.
Just as a snake sheds its skin, the new year invites us to let go of the past and focus on our goals. Quality rest and sleep are essential to feeling like our best selves. When we are refreshed and energized, we are prepared to tackle our to-do lists and achieve our ambitions.
Rest, renewal and optimal sleep can be benefited by thoughtfully creating the right setting and mood in our bedrooms. Being selective on products and design elements in our space is a great place to start.
Lighting and Color: Setting the Stage for Renewal
Setting the mood with low, dim lighting, such as bedside lamps, reflects the natural rhythms of the day and signals to the body that it is time to rest. This is an essential practice for renewal in the Year of the Snake. Pairing this intentional lighting with the color tones we choose in our bedroom further promotes the ideal atmosphere needed to shed the stress of the day and embrace restful sleep.
Soft, muted tones such as light blues, gentle grays, or muted earth tones, are excellent choices for bedding, as they foster a sense of calm. Additionally, the materials used in the bedding can significantly impact how refreshed and renewed we feel upon waking. Selecting fabrics and textures that ensure not only comfort but optimal temperature regulation is crucial.
The Role of Temperature Regulation in Sleep
Unlike snakes, which are cold-blooded and rely on their environment for warmth, humans are warm-blooded and regulate their temperature internally. This can lead to feeling sweaty or overheated during the night, especially when using materials that trap heat. Bedding that supports ventilation and temperature regulation is essential for sleeping soundly.
For example, using a shikifuton on top of tatami mats can reduce the buildup of heat and moisture, helping to maintain a cool and dry sleeping environment. Adding a Soba Gara Makura 蕎麦殻枕 (buckwheat pillow) further aids in regulating body temperature, thanks to the natural breathability of buckwheat hulls. To complete the setup, a kakefuton provides a cozy yet breathable layer, tying together the intentional components of a traditional Japanese sleep system. For more details on this approach to sleep, read our blog.
Wisdom and Intention for the Year Ahead
The Year of the Snake encourages us to approach rest with wisdom and intention. The Japanese sleep system, with its minimalist yet highly functional components, is designed to create a balanced and adaptable sleep space. By layering these thoughtfully chosen elements, we can embrace renewal and set the foundation for a year of harmony and well-being.