In our hectic and tumultuous world, where convenience often trumps tradition, there’s a quiet resurgence happening—one that celebrates the timeless allure of natural materials and their many benefits. Renowned for its comfort, sustainability, and health benefits, Tatami – a traditional Japanese material used in flooring and furniture, is making a comeback.
The source of traditionally crafted Tatami’s benefits comes from the natural fibre used to weave it, the Igusa rush. Harvested in the fields of Kumamoto, Kyushu, Igusa has been used for centuries in Japan for various purposes, including the weaving of Tatami mats.
A Journey Through The Ages
Each Igusa reed we use undergoes a journey that spans over two years. From the moment the seeds are sown in the fields of Kumamoto, they are treated with care and respect. Farmers carefully harvest the reeds and dry them slowly over several months.
Growing up to 1 metre in length, the elegant reeds of Igusa are expertly crafted by a family of Japanese Artisans into 88cm wide Tatami weaves. Bound by high-quality threads, the woven reeds form a durable yet flexible mat that can last for over a decade.
Cooling And Calming
Central to Igusa’s allure is its unique composition, harbouring a spongy core known as toshin. This core serves as the linchpin for Igusa’s remarkable properties, adeptly regulating moisture levels in the surrounding environment. In times of high humidity, it absorbs excess moisture, offering a respite from clammy discomfort. Conversely, in drier conditions, it relinquishes moisture, fostering an atmosphere of soothing tranquillity.
The same structure that gives Igusa these unique moisture-regulating properties also provides it with an exceptional cooling effect. In Japan, these properties allow it to remain warm during winter, and cool during the summer. Due to these two characteristics, Tatami woven from Igusa stays at a temperature that is comfortable for our bodies regardless of the external temperatures. It also stays cool no matter how long you sleep on it, compared to regular spring mattresses which can become uncomfortably warm at night.
Moreover, Igusa doubles as a natural purifier, filtering the air of carbon dioxide and harmful gases and imbuing it with a rejuvenating grassy fragrance. With every breath, the pleasant aroma of Igusa invigorates the senses and calms the mind, helping us to focus our thoughts and live with clarity.
Timeless Traditions
Rooted in centuries-old traditions, Tatami serves as a tangible link to Japan’s cultural heritage, inviting us to embrace a way of life steeped in mindfulness and appreciation for the natural world.
Tatami is a symbol of simplicity, elegance, and harmony—principles deeply ingrained in Japanese aesthetics and philosophy. Its clean lines and minimalist design resonate with the concept of “wabi-sabi,” which celebrates the beauty of imperfection and impermanence.
This beauty within imperfection is reflected in each Tatami piece. Woven by hand, no two Tatami mats are truly identical, with varying widths in the reeds. The silky smooth surface of the Igusa catches the light differently depending on the angle, giving the impression of varying shades that change throughout the day. Even the colour of Tatami echoes this concept, shifting from a mellow green to a golden yellow over the years as the Tatami ages.
Age too does not diminish Tatami. Where synthetic materials grow brittle with age and use, Igusa grows seasoned and more durable. By taking in the natural sunlight, the ample ventilation, and with body contact, the Igusa weave grows more flexible with age. Treated with love and cared for, this wonderful natural fibre returns the affection many times over, providing you with cooling comfort and firm support throughout a decade of use.
