Wabi Sabi - The Perfectly Imperfect Podcast with Candice Kumai

• EP 191 Do We Deserve Japanese Culture & Matcha In Western Markets?

  Hi friends! If you listened to this in the first 2 hours of release - I uploaded the wrong episode -- please refresh & the EP should state 191 - thanks and wabi sabi! xx Candice Welcome to Wabi Sabi. Have we been kind to the Japanese? Do we deserve Japanese 7-Elevens in NY? How about asking a Japanese- American? In Today’s episode is about reflection, learning, and appreciation. There is so much to learn from Japanese history — from the Edo period, to the U.S. Occupation, to the reawakening of Japanese hearts in the 20th century, and the complex but resilient relationship between Japan and the U.S. If you ask me, we shouldn’t learn about Japan — we should learn from Japan. That means supporting Japanese voices, reading books by Japanese and Japanese American authors, and buying Japanese products, foods, beauty, and cultural traditions directly from their source. The research and care that goes into each episode can take me weeks, even months, to create. So if you enjoy listening, please subscribe, leave a comment, and share this podcast with two of your best friends. Now — what can we learn from the obliteration of matcha in the Western world? What can we learn from the history of Japanese Americans, wrongfully imprisoned in concentration camps during World War II, accused of crimes they did not commit? What can we learn from the resilience of a culture that endured deep suffering, only for us to now enjoy its traditions, artistry, and cuisine in all their beauty, novelty, and kawaii? We are able to appreciate Japanese culture today only because our ancestors paid a dear price. This is something we must honor, reflect on, and consider deeply in today’s episode. Thanks for listening. —Candice Kumai

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• EP 190 The Matcha Shortage & The Truth

  In this episode of Wabi Sabi, I share the historical truth about matcha — from Eisai, the monk who first introduced powdered tea to Japan, to Sen no Rikyū, who refined the way of tea during the Tokugawa era. We trace matcha’s roots through centuries of Japanese history, examining its role as a cultural and spiritual practice as well as a daily ritual. I also address the current shortage of ceremonial-grade matcha, why demand is outpacing supply, and what we can do about it. Finally, I call for better journalism around matcha — reporting that goes beyond trend-driven coverage to honor its sacred origins and the Japanese farmers and artisans who continue to protect and preserve this tradition. — Candice Kumai

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• EP 189 The Secret Power Hidden in Your Hardest Moments

  In this episode of Wabi Sabi, I open up about how we can stay grounded and strong while the world feels chaotic. Everywhere we turn right now—news, politics, social feeds—it feels heavy. But instead of waiting for the world to get better, I’ve learned we have to work on our inner world first. I take you through the lessons of kintsugi, the Japanese art of golden repair, and how those same principles can help us rebuild from the inside out. I share why I stopped waiting for someone to “save me,” how I started to see my own worth, and why self‑compassion is one of the most powerful tools we have. You’ll hear real strategies for catching negative self‑talk in the moment, shifting it toward forgiveness and love, and refocusing your energy on what you can control. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or stuck, this episode is a reminder that the cracks in your life aren’t flaws—they’re where your gold goes.

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• EP 188 Watch out For: Performative Healing & the Rise of the Shamefluencer

  This week, I’m peeling back the glossy filters and calling it like it is. Why are so many individuals on social just shaming machines in disguise? I’m talking about the rise of the shamefluencer — creators who weaponize wellness language to judge, call out, and divide. It’s a culture that prioritizes perfectionism over progress, comparison over compassion, and fear over freedom. In this solo episode, I’m chatting performative wellness is hurting real healing, and what true self-work actually looks like — beyond the highlight reels and hashtags. Healing isn’t about shaming others to feel better about yourself or to grow a following or get clicks. It’s about embracing imperfection, owning your journey, and showing up with honesty and vulnerability. Be gentle with you and with all. It’s time to reclaim wellness as a space for growth, connection, and kindness — not judgement. A gentle reminder from me to you: everybody’s trying their best — and if you can be kind, be kind. You can always be kind. x Candice

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• EP 187 Let Nature Heal You

  After a 8 days offline, I was reminded that the deepest healing doesn’t come from doing more—but from being more present. In this episode, I share why immersing yourself in nature for just 3 to 4 days can reset your nervous system, clear your mind, and bring you back to yourself. This isn’t about escape—it’s about return. To the quiet. To stillness. To the real you. I’ll walk you through how to take a restorative break in nature, what to expect emotionally and physically, and why this kind of reset is essential in today’s overstimulated world. Let this be your reminder: nature always welcomes you back—with mercy, with grace, and without judgment. Benefits of Immersing in Nature for 3–4 Days 1. Nervous System Reset – Reduces cortisol (stress hormone) – Activates the parasympathetic (rest and digest) system – Lowers heart rate and blood pressure 2. Mental Clarity & Focus – Boosts cognitive function and memory – Reduces mental fatigue and brain fog – Encourages clearer, calmer decision-making 3. Emotional Detox & Healing – Allows space to process emotions without distraction – Supports mood stability and lowers anxiety – May bring suppressed feelings to the surface (a healthy release) 4. Enhanced Creativity – Being in natural environments stimulates creative thinking – Encourages new ideas, inspiration, and problem-solving – Helps reconnect to your inner artist or writer 5. Better Sleep – Resets circadian rhythm – Natural light exposure improves melatonin regulation – Physical movement + no screens = deeper rest 6. Physical Vitality – Encourages gentle, natural movement (walking, hiking) – Clean air and natural light nourish your cells – Anti-inflammatory effects from phytoncides (plant compounds released by trees) 7. Spiritual Reconnection – Deepens your sense of purpose and gratitude – Quiet moments in nature often lead to insights or breakthroughs – Helps you remember you are part of something larger 8. Digital Detox – Clears digital overload and constant stimulation – Rebuilds attention span and presence – Creates time for journaling, reflection, or silence 9. Self-Compassion & Presence – Nature does not judge—she invites you to just be – Encourages a softer internal dialogue – Teaches patience, humility, and trust

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