how Japan's celebrated four-season culture isn't what most people think it is. This week, while researching for my latest video, I discovered something that completely changed how I understand resilience and beauty.

Just released: I dove into Harvard scholar Haruo Shirane's research about Japan's "culture of the four seasons" in this new video. Here's the shocking revelation—Japan doesn't actually have four seasons. It has five.

The genius part: Japanese culture systematically ignores the devastating rainy season with its floods and typhoons. When 8th-century nobles faced chaos and disasters, they created what Shirane calls "secondary nature"—transforming harsh unpredictability into beauty through cherry blossoms, seasonal poetry, and aesthetic rituals.

This changes everything: You can build your own "seasonal pyramid." Start simple—notice when dandelions appear, when light changes. You're not just observing nature; you're collaborating with it to create meaning from chaos.

I'm thrilled to announce the release of my latest book, "Shizen Style Flow: A Creative's Guide to Natural Living and Optimal Experience." After years of studying traditional Japanese aesthetics in Japan and training in flow state research, I've created a revolutionary approach that transforms creativity from struggle into natural expression. This isn't another productivity system—it's a return to understanding creativity as your natural state that emerges when you align with seasonal rhythms, design flow-supportive environments, and work with rather than against your creative nature.  

Whether you're dealing with creative blocks, burnout, or simply want to discover more sustainable ways to create, this book offers practical wisdom that integrates ancient Japanese principles with cutting-edge neuroscience. 

Big trend: Japanese minimalism is quietly taking over Western design. Rather than competing for attention with chaos, brands are choosing calm, space, and simplicity.

The resistance: Young Japanese designers are reviving traditional aesthetics like ukiyo-e with modern sensibilities, while climate change threatens to strip Japan down to just two seasons. This makes beauty-making skills even more urgent for an uncertain future.

Seasonal talismans: Traditional flower arrangements had specific rules—no camellia for battle (scattering = bad luck), no red flowers for new homes (suggests fire). This wasn't superstition; it was psychological technology for resilience.

Modern applications: Today's designers create devices that mimic healthy breathing patterns, bamboo furniture that exploits natural strength, sustainable materials that fold like origami. Ancient wisdom through contemporary craft.

Weekly Practice

Identify one "harsh season" you're experiencing—work stress, relationship difficulty, creative block. Instead of fighting it:

You're not denying difficulty—you're transforming your relationship with it through intentional beauty-making.

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What's your own "secondary nature"? How do you transform difficult moments into something beautiful?

Hit reply and tell me—these responses always reveal the most creative survival strategies.

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As autumn approaches, the Japanese maple transforms into a vibrant spectacle of color and light. "Momiji Sunburst" captures this breathtaking moment, showcasing a majestic tree bathed in warm sunlight, with its fiery leaves glowing like embers against the backdrop of a clear sky. 

Perfect for lovers of art and those who cherish the fleeting beauty of the seasons, this piece serves as a reminder to pause and appreciate the vibrant moments that life has to offer. 

Illuminate your surroundings—make "Momiji Sunburst" a cherished part of your home. 

P.S. I started noticing my own "seasonal pyramid"—from obvious changes like first snow to subtle shifts like afternoon light hitting my desk differently. What's your entry-level seasonal noticing?

This newsletter provides a springboard for a healthy and happy summer season. Remember, consistency is key!

By incorporating these tips and tricks into your routine, you can cultivate a vibrant and healthy lifestyle that flourishes throughout the year.

Until next time :)