For over a millennia, the venerable temple of Horyu-ji has stood strong amidst the developing Nara province. Founded in the year 607, the main hall of this ancient temple is the world’s oldest wooden building, all thanks to an amazing type of timber with great wellness benefits. Known as Hinoki, the wood of this sacred tree is used in temples, palaces, cutting boards, children’s toys, and our own Hinoki Pillows. But what makes Hinoki so special and how does it help our health?
Enduring And Enhancing
The secret to Hinoki’s legendary durability lies in its high concentration of natural essential oils. These bioactive compounds provide the tree with resistance against decay and rot and allow it to regulate both moisture and temperature peerlessly. The wood’s tight, uniform grain pattern and high percentage of heartwood create a material that is simultaneously, lightweight yet structurally robust and resistant to warping. On top of these structural properties, the natural essential oils also provide Hinoki with anti-fungal and anti-biotic properties, making Hinoki furniture perfect for the health conscious.
Bathing In The Forest’s Fragrance
The natural wonder of Hinoki continues with its role in Shinrin-Yoku, or Forest Bathing. The soothing aroma of Hinoki wood evokes the serenity of a cypress forest, creating a relaxing atmosphere. The natural compounds that make up this fragrance are said to relieve stress levels and calm the body and when incorporated into living spaces through elements like Hinoki pillows or bath products, the wood’s calming scent creates an atmosphere of tranquillity that can help combat anxiety and promote mental well-being. Along with home use, these properties make Hinoki a popular choice for spa and wellness settings.
Stress Free Sleep
The relationship between Hinoki and sleep quality is particularly noteworthy. The calming properties of Hinoki help to ease the transition into sleep. This makes Hinoki-based products, such as pillows filled with Hinoki wood shavings, valuable tools for those seeking to improve their sleep quality naturally. The subtle, evergreen aroma can help create a sleep-inducing environment that promotes deeper, more restorative rest. The antimicrobial and antifungal properties of Hinoki also help to purify the air, making for even better sleep.
The Hinoki Pillow
With all of these natural benefits, it’s easy to see why Hinoki is so prized in Japan, and why we chose it as the material for our Hinoki Pillow. With a filling of natural Hinoki cypress wood shavings, our Hinoki Pillow remains plush and comfortable while still providing you with support for your head and neck. It also fills the air with an ethereal evergreen fragrance full of wellness benefits. The perfect accompaniment to a good night’s sleep.
