I always try to keep things light in this journal, and debated writing about what I am about to share for over a month. But then it hit me: If I don’t share something that could help people, what is it all for? It is my sincere hope that this helps even just one of you. If you have a friend who can benefit from reading this, please pass it on.

This past June, I was diagnosed with lupus. It was almost a relief, as this meeting with my doctor explained health issues that had been occurring for years, such as what I thought were frequent bouts of the flu, rashes, thinning hair, fatigue, and more.

When I reviewed my bloodwork results, my mind went blank. I felt like I had been invaded by an unwelcome houseguest. I was shocked, as being in charge of my own health has always been important to me. 

I had about a month between reading over the test results and meeting with my doctor. I decided that the typical life with lupus that I was reading about was not going to be anything I allowed into my life under any circumstances. After taking many deep breaths and giving myself some time, I realized I already had all of the tools I needed. I just needed to go deeper with them.

I would like to point out that Oriental medicine does not recognize lupus as a specific disease,  but views it as an imbalance of yin and yang energy in the body. That resonated with me and played a huge role in the steps I would take next.

I decided to be more thoughtful with my Reiki and meditation practice. I have been a certified Reiki practitioner for quite some time. I knew it was time to draw on the power of this beautiful healing modality.

I knew aromatherapy would play a huge role in my health. I have an entire refrigerator of essential oils and the knowledge and resources to take my aromatherapy practice to another level. I made essential oil blends to address the deeper aspects of lupus, and used them with the Shizumi Luxury Bath Salts base formula. I also made a daily detoxifying Aromatic Body Wash and Hikaru Multi-Use Oil. Finally, I created a new product that I will be sharing with you soon.

Perhaps the most profound part of this journey for me has been the renewal of my macrobiotic practice. I was introduced to macrobiotics about 25 years ago and it stuck with me on many levels. It really is what got me interested in Japanese culture and food in the first place, and was my introduction to many of Amayori’s ingredients.

A brief summary: Macrobiotics is a lifestyle that involves living in harmony with nature. Diet plays a huge role in macrobiotics, as do many traditional Japanese foods. I will get more into this at another time, but there was a profound moment for me that I want to share with you.

There I was, reviewing my blood results with my doctor. He is nice, but like many doctors, he was immediately talking about medicine. I wasn’t even listening to him. As he was talking, I pictured Amayori’s ingredient closet. I looked up at him and said “I have a closet full of sea vegetables.” I then explained my storehouse of traditional Japanese foods such as seaweed, Okinawa sea salt, various teas, and how I knew that could help bring my body back into balance.  So, I bought a stack of books, all of which I head read when I was 20, and read them again. I reeducated myself and then put it all into practice.

From there, my new journey began. I was on a 100% macrobiotic diet and dove deeply into the macrobiotic lifestyle, waking up before the sun, eating in harmony with the seasons, and keeping in mind the balance between yin and yang. Within three days, I felt better emotionally. Within a few weeks, all of my physical symptoms subsided. It has now been three months, and I have never felt better, physically or mentally, in my entire life. I also feel this is the most profound time of growth and change that I have ever had.

I always thought the ingredients in Amayori’s products were special because of their benefits, their origins, and stories. What I can now add to this list is that they restored my health and helped bring my body back into harmony.

So, get ready to learn more and dive deeper. Amayori isn’t just about bathing and products. Amayori is about slowing down and living a balanced, beautiful life. I am even more dedicated to these ingredients and can’t wait to introduce new ones to you as well. I will also be sharing more recipes, and more on macrobiotics, Reiki and other lifestyle choices that have helped me on this journey.

I have learned so much over the past few months — more about Japan’s ingredients, cooking techniques, and recipes. Through my Reiki practice, I have experienced true oneness. Through bathing and aromatherapy, I have learned to listen to my intuition and nurture my body with Amayori's products on a more meaningful level. The whole process feels very natural to me and I feel as if I have come full circle in many ways. 

If you have health issues, or know someone who does, seek support if you need it, but educate yourself and find things that you can do to help yourself in the healing process. Don’t give your power away, and don’t look at your body as a foreign object that has failed you. Embrace yourself and walk towards health. Get to know yourself and your body better. When your health improves, help others and share your story. Most importantly, never forget that we are all our own healers.

Warmest wishes,

Françoise