Stepping off the plane at Fukuoka Airport in 2005 with my three children was the start of something new for me. It was all new; a new language, a new culture. This is where the family rented an apartment to settle in for the next four years. What made that apartment the most unique and remarkable was its Tatami floor. These Tatami mats are so far of great workmanship that those who see them appreciate the work of the craftsmen who made them.
5 Amazing benefits of Japanese Tatami mats
In this article, we will try to discuss the most amazing benefits of Tatami mats.
Let’s dive in.
History of Tatami mates
At first, tatami was simply a tatami mat covering, but it later became a part of Japanese lifestyle and culture. Thanks to their distinct construction and visual appeal, tatami has been a standard feature of almost every Japanese home since ancient times, offering a close bond with the culture and comfort.
Tatami mats are believed to have first appeared in ancient Japan and were reserved for the upper class, functioning as an expression of power. These types of mats were and are still woven with sustainable and widely available rush grass and rice straw; hence, over time, they transformed in shape and materials used so that they became easily available to the public.
In the Edo period, tatami was already utilized in every traditional Japanese household as a medium suitable for lying, reading, resting, and holding tea. Their style is the practical embodiment of Japanese decor and craft, as well as the principles of harmony and clean design. There are benefits of using tatami mats made in the Japanese tatami culture.
Comfort and Insulation of Tatami mats
Comfort related to sitting and resting, predominantly sleeping, is also elevated by tatami, as it provides soft and firm bases. Traditional Japanese homes featuring tatami mats have a natural air conditioning mechanism because of the insulation properties of the materials used. Terrains and houses with such constructions stay cool in summer and warm up when cold outside and indoor weather becomes more appropriate.
Health Benefits of Tatami mats
The feature that stands out most about tatami mats is that they are made of hypoallergenic materials. They are porous and are capable of soaking up water, which encourages cleaner air indoors. This makes tatami mats helpful to people suffering from asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Aesthetic Appeal of Tatami Mates
All tatami mats can be rated thanks to their feature of the place. The earthy colors and texture of the mats create a relaxing effect hence they can suit various styles: old to new.
Sustainability of Tatami Mats
Tatami mats are produced from biodegradable materials, especially rice straw and rush grass. Producing their processes is why modern sustainable practices have little or no waste at all.
Cultural Significance of Tatami Mats
However, tatami mat Japanese culture is imbued with practical aspects and is also of great importance from the cultural point of view. They encourage people to be present, and at the same time still encourage the desire to keep doing things while paying more attention. Their use in homes and cultural activities provides a deep sense of attachment to the traditions of Japan.
The sweet fragrance of Tatami mats
Another dimension of these smart tatami mats which one realizes sooner or later is the freshness inside the mat. In addition, they are made of natural gray rush, and the bulrush has a soft and vaguely relaxing natural smell.
It is not only pleasant to have this unique smell in the room, but it also acts positively on the room, making it more peaceful, inviting, and soothing. The tatami’s clean, dry scent will take you to the interiors of traditional Japanese houses filled with air rooms that smell like nature and craftsmanship.
Conclusion
Japanese tatami mats provide the best of comfort, offer health benefits, and beautiful designs, sustain the environment, and offer culture. This persistence allows them not only to serve as floor coverings but also to be a valuable piece of Japanese culture even today.
The experience of tatami not only makes us appreciate this uncommon intangible culture but also encourages us to think and search for ways of integrating similar practices in our homes.