I enjoy seeing Japan through your genuine/honest experiences. I'm 66 and my wife of 20+ years is Japanese, so we have been to visit family in Japan, many times. Regarding futons: When I was in my 40's the futon on tatami gave me surprisingly restful sleeps, but when I was about 55 I started to get lower back pain, after about 2 weeks on a futon. (No problems at home on my Canadian bed -- Comically, the only way I found to relieve my pain at night was by sitting with my back resting against a firm surface, but my wife's family didn't have any hard-backed chairs, so I sometimes had to sleep, sitting up, in a corner, propped against a wall, in the hallway. Freaked out her father one time when he made a late-night trip to the bathroom.) This last trip (a few weeks ago) I think I figured out that it was a change in pillow that caused the problem. Originally I slept on a traditional buck-wheat (I think) filled pillow but my troubles began when the household switched to newer, flatter, foam-filled ones. This time, I doubled up the pillows to make them taller and had no problem for the first time in years. Just a suggestion for anyone who has a similar experience.
Excellent video again Chani. Beautiful to see a good mix of what you have happening in Japan. Pasta looked fantastic!! YUM Great to see Millie...I have Midnight trying to climb all over me :) I love having my Friday nights be extra special with you latest video :)
Regular yoga, high dose magnesium (400mg elemental) and an extra firm mattress are essential for relief of my chronic back pain. Milly is adorable. I love how you care for her ☺️
making very slow but steady progress with the course. In the bedding store I recognised some of the Hiragana symbols that I have learnd. Was wondering If it might be appropriate, in future videos, to reference/use some of the learned material, in order to more understand/make more sense the enviroment in which the video is recorded. Just small references. it would be very gratifying/reenforcing to deploy/use what I am learning.
I like a firm mattress, but some of the hotel beds in Japan were a little too firm for even me. I have NEVER liked memory foam mattresses..I feel like they are swallowing me! So I guess I probably could get used to the harder ones in Japan. I need a really good supportive work chair, especially if my back isn't feeling great. Everyone is different, so a good chair for one person may not be great for another.
I was sleeping on a cot in Japan and one day it broke! I was moving soon, so I didn't want to buy anything new. I ended up using the memory foam kitchen mat I'd recently bought to put in front of the sink--it was quite long and almost brand new (v clean). It worked a charm!
Upside of floor life from childhood. Strong thick knee tendons. Knee injuries were rare before western furniture took off. I’ve been shocked number of Americans with bad knees. Our bottom layer foam was about 4”, then 2 thick cotton futon. You can add a feather topper to a firm bed & still have good support.
might be lack of exercise. I also was raised on western furniture but walked, biked and hiked a ton during my childhood, so my legs are strong. Driving everywhere wasn't as common as it is now and I still prefer long walks where most people will rather drive.
Funny that you mention back pain at middle age: I live in Aichi and I ended up with the nerves in my lower back pinched. The result was that for months I almost could not walk. 😭 Now, a year later, after very light continuous exercise as perscribed by my doctor, I can walk a little bit. I hope that if I continue, that I will regain control of those nerves and, thus, control of the muscles that go with them after a year or so.😊
I have back issues too 😢, unfortunately, it's osteoarthritis. I take 2 supplements daily. Each tablet contains 600mg calcium and 10 micrograms of D3. It really helps women that are going into the early Autumn of their lives 🍁🍂. The futon is an excellent suggestion 😊. Miss Millie is definitely an outdoor cat 😻. She looks so calm and confident. I hope that she likes her new bed 🐾🥰. Thank you Chani for another excellent video 🫶
I love to see that Millie is always supervising changes around the house. Adorable! I am one of beginners Japanese students, and am enjoying a lot. Teacher Chani has a great way to help in the learning process. She gives plenty of time to learn and feedback responses. On the backaches subject, I enjoy a hot bath with Epson Salt (Magnesium Sulfate). Also walking 30 min on a steady pace.
I had such a back issue too. I couldn't move for about 2 weeks without pains . I was told - not by my doctor since she was happy to fill me up with medication - by a Holistic healer that these kind of backpain happen if you are not exercising enough. Walking is the best medicine I was told and since I stick to the 10000 steps per day I had no issues with my back. Also I changed my mattress to a much harder one. I'm so happy now. The backpains were so cruel that I could not move or walk at all. Try to increase the seps you do per day and you'll see how much better it is getting.
I injured my back a couple of decades ago when I fell down some stairs. It didn't give me much trouble but in my 40s with the usual deterioration of muscles etc it became more of a problem. I found a firmer bed helped a lot, and going to gym now with some core work has been great, but one thing that was a game changer a few years ago was doing some gentle yoga as soon as I woke up (I felt everyone discovered the benefits of yoga before me). Still in my PJs, I put on a 10-minute session from TH-cam and it helps straighten everything out before the day starts. It's also great to do before bed too.
Here's an odd thing: When I lived in Japan in the late 1980s, I had a regular futon on tatami mats, and I'd wake up in the exact position I'd gone to bed in, and I could tell that I hadn't moved at all over the past six or seven hours. Granted, I was in my late twenties, but even at that age when I slept on any normal mattress, I'd move around a little while sleeping. Also, my apartment would sometimes get as hot as 40°, and all I had was a small fan. I got used to sleeping without a sheet over me.
Wow I love your little outing - I'd never think bout brining my own little table, that car is really handy - nature is really our bounty. If you make ice coffee, you could set up a riverside stall 😂
I would also suggest you to paint your bricks white in your backyard . It will open up space and will brighten it up visually. Also it will give a feeling like it is brand new and clean. And at last I would put some planter box in front of your entrance door with some mix of outdoor plants or flowers.
Millie is just too cute. I use an inexpensive ($7 USD) sisal doormat for the cats to scratch--they love it and pay no attention to my furniture. I always regret when I neglect my core exercises--it's made a huge difference for my back and even helps eliminate morning tightness. Thank you for another lovely video.
I don’t have much back issues, but I often sleep poorly, so I am always eager to hear people’s reports on sleeping on a futon. I slept on a futon a few times when I visited Japan and slept very well. I’m 78 now and getting up from a futon on the floor would be difficult, so I’ve been thinking of a raised platform as you have. Thanks for showing us your bed arrangement.
Yes, mattresses & core strength are very important, but so are the right SHOES. Shoes should have soles of materials & thickness to absorb the impact of walking or standing for any length of time on concrete or hard surfaces. Our hips & spines (which work together) are designed for grass/earth surfaces.
I strained my back badly. It was the worst pain I've ever had. I slept on my yoga mat that evening. I healed after a week and a day. I loved the experienced of having deeper sleeps and waking up with energy. I will keep on sleeping on my yoga mat.
Thanks for your explanation of Japanese futons. This looks v. comfortable. Millie is so brave! We tried the harness and leash with our indoor cats when they were still kittens, and they were terrified of being outside.
Having back issues also, I force myself in the morning and in bed, to abdominal exercises . It hurts too much on the floor. So, gently and regularly uplifting my legs, count the breathing and I feel results. Muscles are essential, they support us. It is simple , stop if it hurts. Same for the shoulders, joining them in the back... Counting, resting.. Millie I am sure would be a good gym teacher, she is beautiful. I follow you and I am very interested about what you tell us about adjusting to Japan. Beautiful place and garden . All the best from France!
❤Thank you Chani. Ive moved and my new room has a mattress and underneath wooden long shallow crates, i forget the name.... it is surprisingly comfortable after a quality good base, bed and mattress... im interested in futons! How lovely to be in a pretty setting with Milly❤
In Sweden I grew up with very similar beds with a foam mattress on top of a bed with wooden slats. When moving to my own place I had a wooden slat very low futon sofa bed with a cotton filled mattress on top. Moving to the U.S using these to me weird metal frame with a box spring and spring mattress on top i find it to not support the back and not very comfortable. I also think that training the muscles around the core is very important.
I’ve been trying to sleep on my back more to help with back and neck pain. I’ve always preferred firmer mattresses but it’s been harder to do if I sleep on my side. While sleeping on my back I’ve been putting two pillows under my knees to reduce pressure in my lower back which has been helping
I've had a foam topper on my futon mattress for years and recently I developed pain in my upper arm and shoulder. The sad thing is that during the day, it would start feeling somewhat better, but after a night's sleep I'd wake up with it hurting again. I took the foam topper off several days ago and have been sleeping much better--my shoulder situation has def improved.
We love Nitori for all sorts of home wares and furniture. Because furniture is ordered with a 2 week delivery date we bought several ‘beds in a box’ futon sets from Nitori. I also love that Japanese doona covers have ties to attach to the doona for easier making.
I had Japanese futons for years-- I loved the safety and grounding feeling of sleeping on the floor (except when you're in the way of the spider road!). And I recently switched to hammock sleeping which instantly got rid of my hip pain and helped the back pain too (and cool for summer). It's fun to try new things and find out what works best for you huh ! Always enjoy your videos ( ◠‿◠ ) ♡
Interesting that the futon is helping your back...I've been seeking out accommodation that has regular western beds or at least the extra thick luxury futons for my upcoming trip as I do have current back issues...(physio said likely herniated disc and weak piraformis muscle as sciatic nerve sensations, so specific stretches daily and no bending)...but I guess I'll only be there for a month so my priority is comfort....when I noticed you bend over in the video I thought gee your lucky haha, but maybe it's due to the futons...sugoi ! Bless dear Millie she is a treat to watch...adorable
Such a lovely video to watch this Saturday morning over breakfast. It looks like Milly is enjoying the trips out and it's such a good idea to get her used to it. I have to say I smile every time I hear "destructo-cat". At 62 I have had a spinal fusion, so on chilly days I have a plug in thin heated mat that I can sit behind me and it just gives some warmth and relief to my lower spine. It's also nice on a chilly day! I think mine came from New Zealand but you can get them anywhere. They are probably good even if you have just had a very busy day in the garden or doing DIY projects. Have a wonderful weekend to you and Milly.
I remember the heat and humidity when we lived in Japan. So glad there are items that can help with the mold which can be bad. So nice seeing you and Millie out enjoying the lovely day. She has beautiful blue eyes. TFS
Be careful about taking Millie outside. When a cat is seriously spooked, it can lash out and run away to safety. Even if Millie has been okay in your "dry runs," if something should spook her - especially in the middle of the night - she might run off. Just something to think about.
At the end of the video you ask about how people handled back issues. I'm 68 and have had fibromyalgia for many years, with a constant backache, especially at night in bed. I tried everything imaginable to fix it. Then I saw some video recommending an acupressure mat (search US Amazon, I'm sure they have them in Japan too). They are mats with thousands of spiky plastic "spikes" sticking up. Sounds horrible, and it is when you first try it. You wonder how you can ever stand the torture, like lying on a bed of nails. But you can see so many YT videos of people lying on them nonchalantly. After a couple of days you get somewhat used to lying on it for 15-20 minutes each evening before bed. For me, it was magic. All my back pain, all my fibro disappeared. I think so much blood rushes into your back, providing much needed oxygen, and now I look forward to lying on it. Your mileage may vary. My opinion is that the inexpensive ones work just about as well as the expensive ones. I got one for about $20 on Amazon (and another for about $80 that I actually like much less and never use anymore). For me, it was the best investment.
When moving houses before, I've slept on just my mattress on the floor for a night or two, and I think I liked it. In the bed, the mattress would normally rest on some slats that were flexible, and so the mattress feels stiffer on the ground. I'll need to investigate this further....
@Chani Japan. Actually i have a very bad lumber spine now for 10 years!and I even had a disc operation,I spent over $5000 on a bed!my back still hurt. anyway, a friend of mine said to try sleeping on the floor with just a very thin futon,the first night was agony but after that my back was pain free!.
Have you ever tried an AI interior design generators (like midjourney) to help you to style and decorate your home? You simply have to take a photo, choose a style and it does all the furnishing and decorating for you. Some people say it helps them to find their style and get ideas after moving. :)
Now, that you are in a Shiatsu 'home country', wondering if you have visited any Shiatsu clinics for your back and general well-being...been sleeping on a futon for nearly thirty years (not the same one, ofc)but unfortunately, in a densely populated city...both on the tatami itself and on raised 'drawer bed'. Belly rubs to Millie ❤
We bring our cats to get hair cuts in the summer here in Arizona. It’s so hot even with a/c. They don’t mind looking silly, and it also helps with the shedding.
Im getting rid of my old bed and have decided to get a tatami mat and futon. But I am in the states and need to purchase them here. How often does the futon need to be aired out? I hope a full size isn’t too heavy for me to take downstairs and to the screened porch.
I slept on the floor for 14 of my 15 years in Japan. I have no back problems and believe it’s because of this. But, I got to the stage where I just couldn’t get up off the floor easily or fast enough anymore. I did have a spare bed - a mattress on legs - that I bought from Rakuten a few years before. I moved it into my room and slept on it for my last year in Japan - no-one could visit anyway because of Covid. Now that I’m back home, I love my big bed. It has a hard mattress and getting up during the night is no problem at all.
Such interesting info on Japanese bedding culture Chani. And there's nothing cuter than the Millie content on your vlogs. Watching her deftly playing on her cat wall .... beyond adorable! Millie looks like she's a natural camping companion!
Another good one! Watching you shop for practical home items was fun and interesting. The humidity buckets are new to me! Already in June your garden looks great.
Thank you Chani! I have been interested in a futon for back pain too and found your experience quite similar- I found a company that will send to Australia- so am researching The makeover looks great and Millie seems to be a docile cat to take on a day out!
Thank you for the video. I was just thinking about buying one for myself next time I’m in Japan :) since I’m already commenting I’ll add that I love your channel so much. It’s inspiring and comforting at the same time. Have a lovely weekend 🫶🏻
The thing about western beds is that they're way too soft for us Japanese😂 I used to travels abroad all the time and that was a big problem for me. Soft beds caused me to get back pains that I didn't have. I think beds are more popular than futon even in Japan, but the matresses are so much firmer here.
When we went to Japan I didn’t sleep very well because of the hotel beds. They were so hard! I sleep on my side so I kept waking up with hip pain. When we stayed in the ryokan, I put 3 futons together to sleep😆
weight lifting will help with strengthening your core and your back muscles It doesn't have to be huge amounts but squats & dead lifts will do wonders. combined with agile 8 which is a simple set of flexibility exercises you can do with a foam roller.
I'm in my 40's and I too have had plenty of back pains....and neck pains. Not to sound like a hippie but have you heard of grounding? There are numerous amounts of grounding items such as bedsheets, mats for your workspace, yoga mats, etc. It not a cure all, but it has help with easing my pains and lessen them. I was SKEPTICAL at first but I felt it made a difference after a couple of months of trying it, but you'd have to keep grounding as a new daily habit to see the results. This isn't spam by the way. Just sharing. 😂 And, ah yes my doctor also said to work out the core muscles.......😑
Hello from Sydney, Chani 😊 If you're from Cairns and you say that the summers in Japan are brutal, then they *must* be bad 😜 I have back issues as well. Years of carrying a heavy school bag in my right hand, and then a rather sedentary work life haven't helped. Then a bad whack that misaligned two of my vertebrae made it worse. I might look at getting a firmer mattress when I can. My bed is a slat bed not unlike yours. Incidentally, in one of the Japanese channels that I watch, the lady in question replaced a broken bed with...a "Koala" brand bed from Australia 😛 It came with a little plushie koala, who recently got his own pyjama top :D From my own research some years ago, Koala beds and mattresses aren't cheap 😳 You said that Millie is a bit of a "destructor" cat...I wonder if the Japanese have a Yokai for that 😸 She's gorgeous. It's been raining here in Sydney, and none of "my" strays have been yet for a feed. It's nice that Millie sleeps on your bed 😺 When I had my own I usually had at least one on or in the bed. I was in bed with the flu once, and woke up with the least friendly of the 5 leaning against me. She would also wake me up "for no reason" in the middle of the night, but not for food. I have sleep apnoea, so that might have been it. Good luck with the insulation installation. Remind me not to come to Japan and visit Wakayama when you're planning some work on your house 😂
Hi Chain, I have muscle issues as well, they are very tight. I have found doing daily stretches for lower back, sides, legs and very importantly through the hip area. Holding deep squats works wonders and a simple exercise called sciatic nerve glides/flossing is great before bed. I love going to Nitori.
Can you put the items in the details? I want to get the pillow cover and blanket. Im 68 but think Ill just sleep on the floor. Do you think its better sleeping on the wooden frame? We have high humidity here all year long. Its over 100 with the heat index. Thanks for the video and help.
Thanks for this very interesting video. I've only just found your channel but I'm look forward to watching more videos in the future. Would you consider posting a links to the mattress that goes under the futon please? I'm interested in finding something similar if possible.
Hello Chani, I am a first time viewer. I am interested in more information on the cooling blanket you purchased. I live in the United States and I would like to see if I can find that blanket here at one of our specialty stores. I am looking forward to watching more of your videos ❤❤ subscribing now 😊
If you want to ease back pain, consider loosening the muscles in your thighs and buttocks. Tightness in these muscles can lead to tension in your lower back, resulting in pain. Having a firm base with soft padding on top is beneficial for your spine, which is why Japanese-style Futon are great for spinal health. My doctor recommended using a wooden base with a soft mattress. Maintaining muscle flexibility and elasticity is crucial. Pay attention to muscle tightness, as it is the root cause of spinal issues.
![Cat's First Kei Van Camping Trip in Japan: Nighttime Scare! [猫とキャンプ]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/130HmCij9us/mqdefault.jpg)
If you want to learn Japanese from the very beginning, join my beginners Japanese course today www.chanijapan.com/
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I enjoy seeing Japan through your genuine/honest experiences. I'm 66 and my wife of 20+ years is Japanese, so we have been to visit family in Japan, many times. Regarding futons: When I was in my 40's the futon on tatami gave me surprisingly restful sleeps, but when I was about 55 I started to get lower back pain, after about 2 weeks on a futon. (No problems at home on my Canadian bed -- Comically, the only way I found to relieve my pain at night was by sitting with my back resting against a firm surface, but my wife's family didn't have any hard-backed chairs, so I sometimes had to sleep, sitting up, in a corner, propped against a wall, in the hallway. Freaked out her father one time when he made a late-night trip to the bathroom.) This last trip (a few weeks ago) I think I figured out that it was a change in pillow that caused the problem. Originally I slept on a traditional buck-wheat (I think) filled pillow but my troubles began when the household switched to newer, flatter, foam-filled ones. This time, I doubled up the pillows to make them taller and had no problem for the first time in years. Just a suggestion for anyone who has a similar experience.
Excellent video again Chani.
Beautiful to see a good mix of what you have happening in Japan.
Pasta looked fantastic!! YUM
Great to see Millie...I have Midnight trying to climb all over me :)
I love having my Friday nights be extra special with you latest video :)
Thank you 😋
Regular yoga, high dose magnesium (400mg elemental) and an extra firm mattress are essential for relief of my chronic back pain. Milly is adorable. I love how you care for her ☺️
Thanks for the tips!
making very slow but steady progress with the course. In the bedding store I recognised some of the Hiragana symbols that I have learnd. Was wondering If it might be appropriate, in future videos, to reference/use some of the learned material, in order to more understand/make more sense the enviroment in which the video is recorded. Just small references. it would be very gratifying/reenforcing to deploy/use what I am learning.
That is a great idea! If I see some hiragana I will point it out. Good thinking ✨
I like a firm mattress, but some of the hotel beds in Japan were a little too firm for even me. I have NEVER liked memory foam mattresses..I feel like they are swallowing me! So I guess I probably could get used to the harder ones in Japan. I need a really good supportive work chair, especially if my back isn't feeling great. Everyone is different, so a good chair for one person may not be great for another.
I really need to get my master set up.
04:46 Cats always help making the bed 🛌 🐈 😍
So true 😺
I’m so impressed by Millie’s brave spirit going in the car and outside. You really are giving her confidence!
Thank you Chani for sharing a little bit of your life with us. I really enjoy watching your videos.
I'm so glad!
I'm 67 and sleep on a gym mat + a cover on top and that's it! Love it. And a roll for a pillow, it's wonderful
I was sleeping on a cot in Japan and one day it broke! I was moving soon, so I didn't want to buy anything new. I ended up using the memory foam kitchen mat I'd recently bought to put in front of the sink--it was quite long and almost brand new (v clean). It worked a charm!
You are amazing!
I tried futon for a few days and my back hated me for it instantly. My memories of Japan are all accompanied by back pain.
Upside of floor life from childhood. Strong thick knee tendons. Knee injuries were rare before western furniture took off. I’ve been shocked number of Americans with bad knees. Our bottom layer foam was about 4”, then 2 thick cotton futon. You can add a feather topper to a firm bed & still have good support.
might be lack of exercise. I also was raised on western furniture but walked, biked and hiked a ton during my childhood, so my legs are strong.
Driving everywhere wasn't as common as it is now and I still prefer long walks where most people will rather drive.
Funny that you mention back pain at middle age: I live in Aichi and I ended up with the nerves in my lower back pinched. The result was that for months I almost could not walk. 😭 Now, a year later, after very light continuous exercise as perscribed by my doctor, I can walk a little bit. I hope that if I continue, that I will regain control of those nerves and, thus, control of the muscles that go with them after a year or so.😊
Oh wow! Must have been very painful. Glad you are getting better ♥️
I smiled when I saw the thumbnail. How did you get that shot?😁
I put my phone on timer and balanced it on the light 🤣🤣
Millie did so well! 👏🏻👏🏻
I think it was good training 😺
Love your videos! I really wanna live in Japannnnn tooo
Go for it!
I have back issues too 😢, unfortunately, it's osteoarthritis. I take 2 supplements daily. Each tablet contains 600mg calcium and 10 micrograms of D3. It really helps women that are going into the early Autumn of their lives 🍁🍂. The futon is an excellent suggestion 😊.
Miss Millie is definitely an outdoor cat 😻. She looks so calm and confident. I hope that she likes her new bed 🐾🥰. Thank you Chani for another excellent video 🫶
🫶
腰痛持ち(時々ぎっくり腰)なので、たたみに敷き布団だと起き上がるのが大変で😂
すのこベッドにかためのマットレスと敷き布団で寝ています。
除湿剤に除湿シート、ニトリのNクール製品、と本当に高温多湿日本の生活を熟知していらっしゃる！
梅雨を乗りきったらいよいよ夏のキャンプシーズン、楽しみにしています😉
Millie looked soooo happy! She’ll love camping hopefully 💚🩵❤
I love to see that Millie is always supervising changes around the house. Adorable!
I am one of beginners Japanese students, and am enjoying a lot. Teacher Chani has a great way to help in the learning process. She gives plenty of time to learn and feedback responses. On the backaches subject, I enjoy a hot bath with Epson Salt (Magnesium Sulfate). Also walking 30 min on a steady pace.
Epson salt is helpful! You are doing so well on the course 🫶♥️
日々の生活を楽しんでいらっしゃるようで、とても素敵です。
I had such a back issue too. I couldn't move for about 2 weeks without pains . I was told - not by my doctor since she was happy to fill me up with medication - by a Holistic healer that these kind of backpain happen if you are not exercising enough. Walking is the best medicine I was told and since I stick to the 10000 steps per day I had no issues with my back. Also I changed my mattress to a much harder one. I'm so happy now. The backpains were so cruel that I could not move or walk at all. Try to increase the seps you do per day and you'll see how much better it is getting.
Very good advice. I agree that increasing movement is so important. Walking is a great way to keep up the movement! ♥️
I injured my back a couple of decades ago when I fell down some stairs. It didn't give me much trouble but in my 40s with the usual deterioration of muscles etc it became more of a problem. I found a firmer bed helped a lot, and going to gym now with some core work has been great, but one thing that was a game changer a few years ago was doing some gentle yoga as soon as I woke up (I felt everyone discovered the benefits of yoga before me). Still in my PJs, I put on a 10-minute session from TH-cam and it helps straighten everything out before the day starts. It's also great to do before bed too.
I never knew how complicated owning a futon in Japan is. I wouldn't have thought that a video about futon arrangements would be interesting.
Was that Vegemite I saw on the bread lol.
Yes 😋
Millie is such a destructo cutie!!! ❤
Here's an odd thing: When I lived in Japan in the late 1980s, I had a regular futon on tatami mats, and I'd wake up in the exact position I'd gone to bed in, and I could tell that I hadn't moved at all over the past six or seven hours. Granted, I was in my late twenties, but even at that age when I slept on any normal mattress, I'd move around a little while sleeping. Also, my apartment would sometimes get as hot as 40°, and all I had was a small fan. I got used to sleeping without a sheet over me.
Wow I love your little outing - I'd never think bout brining my own little table, that car is really handy - nature is really our bounty.
If you make ice coffee, you could set up a riverside stall 😂
Millie is absolutely beautiful! Those blue 💙 eyes! Great wall space for her! My cat climbs my curtains. Lol
I would also suggest you to paint your bricks white in your backyard . It will open up space and will brighten it up visually. Also it will give a feeling like it is brand new and clean. And at last I would put some planter box in front of your entrance door with some mix of outdoor plants or flowers.
That is a lovely idea. I do need something at me front door.
Millie is just too cute. I use an inexpensive ($7 USD) sisal doormat for the cats to scratch--they love it and pay no attention to my furniture. I always regret when I neglect my core exercises--it's made a huge difference for my back and even helps eliminate morning tightness. Thank you for another lovely video.
Your video topics are always so interesting.
I appreciate that!
I don’t have much back issues, but I often sleep poorly, so I am always eager to hear people’s reports on sleeping on a futon. I slept on a futon a few times when I visited Japan and slept very well. I’m 78 now and getting up from a futon on the floor would be difficult, so I’ve been thinking of a raised platform as you have. Thanks for showing us your bed arrangement.
Yes, mattresses & core strength are very important, but so are the right SHOES. Shoes should have soles of materials & thickness to absorb the impact of walking or standing for any length of time on concrete or hard surfaces. Our hips & spines (which work together) are designed for grass/earth surfaces.
I strained my back badly. It was the worst pain I've ever had. I slept on my yoga mat that evening. I healed after a week and a day. I loved the experienced of having deeper sleeps and waking up with energy. I will keep on sleeping on my yoga mat.
Oh! I’m glad you found a solution 🤔
I have to have a blanket too even if is a hot day, I’m trying to get a cool blanket or something but I can’t find it where I live. Take care. ❤
I have never seen them in Australia either.
Get her a GPS collar when you go camping . Just in case
I will for sure 👍
Sitting here at 530am with a coffee and Mochi on my lap watching you guys❤
Cute 🐱🩷
Lovely..
Thanks 😊
Glad to hear you'll be working on more intermediate and up courses, looking forward to it!
That's the plan!
Thanks for your explanation of Japanese futons. This looks v. comfortable. Millie is so brave! We tried the harness and leash with our indoor cats when they were still kittens, and they were terrified of being outside.
Having back issues also, I force myself in the morning and in bed, to abdominal exercises . It hurts too much on the floor. So, gently and regularly uplifting my legs, count the breathing and I feel results. Muscles are essential, they support us. It is simple , stop if it hurts. Same for the shoulders, joining them in the back... Counting, resting.. Millie I am sure would be a good gym teacher, she is beautiful. I follow you and I am very interested about what you tell us about adjusting to Japan. Beautiful place and garden . All the best from France!
Thank you 😊
❤Thank you Chani. Ive moved and my new room has a mattress and underneath wooden long shallow crates, i forget the name.... it is surprisingly comfortable after a quality good base, bed and mattress... im interested in futons! How lovely to be in a pretty setting with Milly❤
In Sweden I grew up with very similar beds with a foam mattress on top of a bed with wooden slats. When moving to my own place I had a wooden slat very low futon sofa bed with a cotton filled mattress on top. Moving to the U.S using these to me weird metal frame with a box spring and spring mattress on top i find it to not support the back and not very comfortable. I also think that training the muscles around the core is very important.
Millie will be a great camping companion. She looks ready and will enjoy it.
The better your house is insulated, the better your air conditioning will work. Don't be afraid to blow insulation in the warmer months.
I’ve been trying to sleep on my back more to help with back and neck pain. I’ve always preferred firmer mattresses but it’s been harder to do if I sleep on my side. While sleeping on my back I’ve been putting two pillows under my knees to reduce pressure in my lower back which has been helping
I've had a foam topper on my futon mattress for years and recently I developed pain in my upper arm and shoulder. The sad thing is that during the day, it would start feeling somewhat better, but after a night's sleep I'd wake up with it hurting again. I took the foam topper off several days ago and have been sleeping much better--my shoulder situation has def improved.
Agreed! I’m the same way and have been that way all my life! I like being cool (hence why I live in North Pole Alaska) but I need a blanket.
We love Nitori for all sorts of home wares and furniture. Because furniture is ordered with a 2 week delivery date we bought several ‘beds in a box’ futon sets from Nitori. I also love that Japanese doona covers have ties to attach to the doona for easier making.
Yes the ties are so good for keeping everything in place. 😀
Have a great weekend!
You too!! Thank you very much 🩷👋
いつも、面白いトピックをありがとうございます！
和歌山、いいところでせすよね、
I had Japanese futons for years-- I loved the safety and grounding feeling of sleeping on the floor (except when you're in the way of the spider road!). And I recently switched to hammock sleeping which instantly got rid of my hip pain and helped the back pain too (and cool for summer). It's fun to try new things and find out what works best for you huh ! Always enjoy your videos ( ◠‿◠ ) ♡
thank you chani for another inspiring video to move to japan 🥰 hope the rainy season will be easy and cozy 🫶🏻
Interesting that the futon is helping your back...I've been seeking out accommodation that has regular western beds or at least the extra thick luxury futons for my upcoming trip as I do have current back issues...(physio said likely herniated disc and weak piraformis muscle as sciatic nerve sensations, so specific stretches daily and no bending)...but I guess I'll only be there for a month so my priority is comfort....when I noticed you bend over in the video I thought gee your lucky haha, but maybe it's due to the futons...sugoi ! Bless dear Millie she is a treat to watch...adorable
Such a lovely video to watch this Saturday morning over breakfast. It looks like Milly is enjoying the trips out and it's such a good idea to get her used to it. I have to say I smile every time I hear "destructo-cat". At 62 I have had a spinal fusion, so on chilly days I have a plug in thin heated mat that I can sit behind me and it just gives some warmth and relief to my lower spine. It's also nice on a chilly day! I think mine came from New Zealand but you can get them anywhere. They are probably good even if you have just had a very busy day in the garden or doing DIY projects. Have a wonderful weekend to you and Milly.
I sleep on the hardest mattresses available. I probably wouldn't mind sleeping on a futon that much!
I remember the heat and humidity when we lived in Japan. So glad there are items that can help with the mold which can be bad. So nice seeing you and Millie out enjoying the lovely day. She has beautiful blue eyes. TFS
Be careful about taking Millie outside. When a cat is seriously spooked, it can lash out and run away to safety. Even if Millie has been okay in your "dry runs," if something should spook her - especially in the middle of the night - she might run off. Just something to think about.
At the end of the video you ask about how people handled back issues. I'm 68 and have had fibromyalgia for many years, with a constant backache, especially at night in bed. I tried everything imaginable to fix it. Then I saw some video recommending an acupressure mat (search US Amazon, I'm sure they have them in Japan too). They are mats with thousands of spiky plastic "spikes" sticking up. Sounds horrible, and it is when you first try it. You wonder how you can ever stand the torture, like lying on a bed of nails. But you can see so many YT videos of people lying on them nonchalantly. After a couple of days you get somewhat used to lying on it for 15-20 minutes each evening before bed. For me, it was magic. All my back pain, all my fibro disappeared. I think so much blood rushes into your back, providing much needed oxygen, and now I look forward to lying on it. Your mileage may vary. My opinion is that the inexpensive ones work just about as well as the expensive ones. I got one for about $20 on Amazon (and another for about $80 that I actually like much less and never use anymore). For me, it was the best investment.
Did you tell anything about what happened to your back pain?
Yes. Much better with the futon and some careful exercises.
@@ChaniJapan ❤️
When moving houses before, I've slept on just my mattress on the floor for a night or two, and I think I liked it. In the bed, the mattress would normally rest on some slats that were flexible, and so the mattress feels stiffer on the ground. I'll need to investigate this further....
I simply don't understand the standard advice of a firm mattress for back pain. Firm mattresses give me back pain! lol
@Chani Japan. Actually i have a very bad lumber spine now for 10 years!and I even had a disc operation,I spent over $5000 on a bed!my back still hurt.
anyway, a friend of mine said to try sleeping on the floor with just a very thin futon,the first night was agony but after that my back was pain free!.
Amazing. Yes first few weeks were uncomfortable for me.
Have you ever tried an AI interior design generators (like midjourney) to help you to style and decorate your home? You simply have to take a photo, choose a style and it does all the furnishing and decorating for you. Some people say it helps them to find their style and get ideas after moving. :)
Could you put picnic ice blocks in the fridge and put them under Milly's cat bed?
Noup I must have a bed. That's the few luxury I can afford 😂
Now, that you are in a Shiatsu 'home country', wondering if you have visited any Shiatsu clinics for your back and general well-being...been sleeping on a futon for nearly thirty years (not the same one, ofc)but unfortunately, in a densely populated city...both on the tatami itself and on raised 'drawer bed'. Belly rubs to Millie ❤
30 years on a futon! Now I'm used to it I probably won't go back to a soft bed. 🐱
It seems that Millie had a great outing!❤
I think she enjoyed it 😺
Plan to sign up for your course. Had to get a new printer before starting the course. Very excited!
Awesome! Thank you! It is a great start to get the foundation for learning.
Thankyou Chani & Millie, very interesting & informative video. Love catching up with how your going ❤
Thank you 🩷👋
Maybe you should get awnings for your windows to help mitigate the heat
We bring our cats to get hair cuts in the summer here in Arizona. It’s so hot even with a/c. They don’t mind looking silly, and it also helps with the shedding.
По статистике 61 процент японцев сейчас спят на кроватях. А только 39 процентов продолжают пользоваться футонами, это в основном люди 60 и старше.
Im getting rid of my old bed and have decided to get a tatami mat and futon. But I am in the states and need to purchase them here. How often does the futon need to be aired out? I hope a full size isn’t too heavy for me to take downstairs and to the screened porch.
Milly is so adorable and beautiful. She has such beautiful blue eyes too.❤❤❤
Very interesting thanks for this Chani my back is very bad had an accident so couldn't sleep on the floor.
I slept on the floor for 14 of my 15 years in Japan. I have no back problems and believe it’s because of this. But, I got to the stage where I just couldn’t get up off the floor easily or fast enough anymore. I did have a spare bed - a mattress on legs - that I bought from Rakuten a few years before. I moved it into my room and slept on it for my last year in Japan - no-one could visit anyway because of Covid. Now that I’m back home, I love my big bed. It has a hard mattress and getting up during the night is no problem at all.
Such interesting info on Japanese bedding culture Chani. And there's nothing cuter than the Millie content on your vlogs. Watching her deftly playing on her cat wall .... beyond adorable! Millie looks like she's a natural camping companion!
I've been sleeping on futon, on the floor since i was 16.. Still prefer it more than an western style bed.
Millie is gorgeous. Hope to see more closeups of her in future videos .😊
Another good one! Watching you shop for practical home items was fun and interesting. The humidity buckets are new to me! Already in June your garden looks great.
Awesome! Thank you!
Thank you Chani!
I have been interested in a futon for back pain too and found your experience quite similar- I found a company that will send to Australia- so am researching
The makeover looks great and Millie seems to be a docile cat to take on a day out!
Wonderful! So good you can get a futon in Australia ❤️
I am learning so much from your videos and look forward to each new one, every week!
I'm so glad!
Thank you for the video. I was just thinking about buying one for myself next time I’m in Japan :) since I’m already commenting I’ll add that I love your channel so much. It’s inspiring and comforting at the same time. Have a lovely weekend 🫶🏻
Have a great weekend ♥️
Thank you, this is wonderful and the kitty is so sweet!
Thank you 😀
The thing about western beds is that they're way too soft for us Japanese😂
I used to travels abroad all the time and that was a big problem for me. Soft beds caused me to get back pains that I didn't have.
I think beds are more popular than futon even in Japan, but the matresses are so much firmer here.
Yes. Much firmer 😆 I agree 🩷
When we went to Japan I didn’t sleep very well because of the hotel beds. They were so hard! I sleep on my side so I kept waking up with hip pain. When we stayed in the ryokan, I put 3 futons together to sleep😆
It took me a while to adjust 😆
weight lifting will help with strengthening your core and your back muscles It doesn't have to be huge amounts but squats & dead lifts will do wonders. combined with agile 8 which is a simple set of flexibility exercises you can do with a foam roller.
Good ideas. I will keep slowly working at it 😀
Your home and your video is amazing. I love your adjustable table? What is it called. I would love to get one. I’m watching from Colorado USA 🇺🇸
I made this one. Got the parts from a second hand furniture shop.
I'm in my 40's and I too have had plenty of back pains....and neck pains. Not to sound like a hippie but have you heard of grounding? There are numerous amounts of grounding items such as bedsheets, mats for your workspace, yoga mats, etc. It not a cure all, but it has help with easing my pains and lessen them. I was SKEPTICAL at first but I felt it made a difference after a couple of months of trying it, but you'd have to keep grounding as a new daily habit to see the results. This isn't spam by the way. Just sharing. 😂 And, ah yes my doctor also said to work out the core muscles.......😑
Sounds amazing 🩷 The core muscles seem to be mentioned a lot by the drs
I recommend getting insulation blown into the attic space. It has helped my house tremendously. It has helped with my utility bills!
I can’t get it blown in here but I can buy some think padding that can be installed.
Hello from Sydney, Chani 😊 If you're from Cairns and you say that the summers in Japan are brutal, then they *must* be bad 😜
I have back issues as well. Years of carrying a heavy school bag in my right hand, and then a rather sedentary work life haven't helped. Then a bad whack that misaligned two of my vertebrae made it worse. I might look at getting a firmer mattress when I can. My bed is a slat bed not unlike yours. Incidentally, in one of the Japanese channels that I watch, the lady in question replaced a broken bed with...a "Koala" brand bed from Australia 😛 It came with a little plushie koala, who recently got his own pyjama top :D From my own research some years ago, Koala beds and mattresses aren't cheap 😳
You said that Millie is a bit of a "destructor" cat...I wonder if the Japanese have a Yokai for that 😸 She's gorgeous. It's been raining here in Sydney, and none of "my" strays have been yet for a feed. It's nice that Millie sleeps on your bed 😺 When I had my own I usually had at least one on or in the bed. I was in bed with the flu once, and woke up with the least friendly of the 5 leaning against me. She would also wake me up "for no reason" in the middle of the night, but not for food. I have sleep apnoea, so that might have been it.
Good luck with the insulation installation. Remind me not to come to Japan and visit Wakayama when you're planning some work on your house 😂
I heard that cats can sense when we are sick and so on. One subscriber said she might even be able to give warning of an earthquake.
Hi Chain, I have muscle issues as well, they are very tight. I have found doing daily stretches for lower back, sides, legs and very importantly through the hip area. Holding deep squats works wonders and a simple exercise called sciatic nerve glides/flossing is great before bed. I love going to Nitori.
Thanks for the tips!
Can you put the items in the details? I want to get the pillow cover and blanket. Im 68 but think Ill just sleep on the floor. Do you think its better sleeping on the wooden frame? We have high humidity here all year long. Its over 100 with the heat index. Thanks for the video and help.
It’s from a store here in Japan called NITORI
Thanks for this very interesting video. I've only just found your channel but I'm look forward to watching more videos in the future. Would you consider posting a links to the mattress that goes under the futon please? I'm interested in finding something similar if possible.
It’s from a shop in Japan called NITORI. Sorry I don’t have any links. As I bought it in store b
No More Salt
Hello Chani, I am a first time viewer. I am interested in more information on the cooling blanket you purchased. I live in the United States and I would like to see if I can find that blanket here at one of our specialty stores.
I am looking forward to watching more of your videos ❤❤ subscribing now 😊
Thanks for subbing!
Your pasta looks yummy!😊.
If you want to ease back pain, consider loosening the muscles in your thighs and buttocks. Tightness in these muscles can lead to tension in your lower back, resulting in pain.
Having a firm base with soft padding on top is beneficial for your spine, which is why Japanese-style Futon are great for spinal health. My doctor recommended using a wooden base with a soft mattress.
Maintaining muscle flexibility and elasticity is crucial. Pay attention to muscle tightness, as it is the root cause of spinal issues.
Good tip 🩷