• Health

    The Benefits of Salt: Discovering the Hidden Power of a Household Staple

    August 13, 2024 - By 

    Salt is a staple in every kitchen, an essential seasoning used in countless dishes. But did you know that this common white crystal does more than just enhance flavor? Salt has a variety of effects that we benefit from daily, often without even realizing it. Let’s dive into the many benefits of salt.

    1. Preserving Food: The Power of Salt

    Salt has been used for centuries as a food preservative. It works by inhibiting the growth of microorganisms, preventing food from spoiling. Salt curing and drying methods are just a few examples of how salt’s preserving power has been harnessed over time. Without salt, many of the preserved foods we enjoy today simply wouldn’t exist.

    2. Enhancing Flavor: The Perfect Seasoning

    Adding a pinch of salt to your dish does more than just make it salty—it brings out the natural flavors, making them more pronounced. Salt plays a crucial role in balancing the overall taste of a dish. For example, adding salt to a soup not only enhances the individual ingredients but also elevates the entire flavor profile of the meal.

    3. Maintaining Hydration: Salt’s Role in the Body

    In our bodies, salt (sodium) helps maintain proper fluid balance. Consuming the right amount of salt keeps our body fluids at the correct concentration, ensuring our cells function properly. This is why sports drinks often contain electrolytes, including sodium, to help replenish the body’s salt levels after exercise.

    4. Supporting Muscle Function

    Sodium is essential for the proper functioning of nerves and muscles. As an electrolyte, it aids in muscle contraction and the transmission of nerve impulses, which are critical for physical performance and reflexes.

    5. Managing Blood Pressure: Balancing Salt Intake

    While too much salt can lead to high blood pressure, moderate salt intake is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. In today’s world, where many diets are high in salt, it’s important to be mindful of our salt consumption and strive for a balanced diet.

    6. Other Everyday Uses of Salt

    Salt isn’t just for the kitchen—it has various other uses in everyday life. For instance, a saltwater gargle can help with oral hygiene and soothe a sore throat. Adding salt to a bath can also promote relaxation. And during winter, salt is commonly used to prevent roads from icing over, showcasing its versatility.

    Salt is a valuable part of our diet and daily life, offering numerous health benefits when consumed in the right amounts. By understanding its many uses, we can better appreciate this humble ingredient and make the most of it in our everyday lives.

    At our restaurant, we offer high-quality Greek sea salt for sale by weight. If you’re interested, we invite you to visit us and explore how this exceptional salt can enhance your cooking. We’re confident it will elevate the flavor of your dishes to new heights!

  • Health

    Breathing techniques

    November 22, 2023 - By 

    Hello! Today, I’d like to talk about breathing techniques.

    Back when I was playing football, my father often told me to master breathing techniques. Recently, these techniques have been featured in manga like “Demon Slayer,” but in the East, they have been known for their various effects for quite some time.

    History of Breathing Techniques

    Breathing techniques have been practised in various cultures since ancient times. Particularly in Yoga in India and Qigong in China, these techniques have been essential for mental calmness and physical balance. In Western medicine, they’re recognised for reducing stress, managing anxiety, and improving sleep.

    Types of Breathing Techniques

    1. Diaphragmatic Breathing

       – Method: Breathe deeply using the abdomen in a relaxed posture.

       – Benefits: Relaxation, stress reduction, improved digestion.

    2. Chest Breathing

       – Method: Expand the lungs by breathing through the chest.

       – Benefits: Increased concentration, short-term energy boost.

    3. Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana)

       – Method: Inhale through one nostril and exhale through the other, alternating between the two.

       – Benefits: Mental and physical balance, relaxation, clarity of mind.

    4. Viloma Breathing

       – Method: Inhale in stages, pausing between each breath.

       – Benefits: Mental stability, deep relaxation, autonomic nervous system regulation.

    5. Kapalabhati (Breath of Fire)

       – Method: Rapid, short breaths using the abdominal muscles.

       – Benefits: Activation of energy, internal cleansing, strengthened respiratory system.

    6. 4-7-8 Breathing Technique

       – Method: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold the breath for 7 seconds, then exhale for 8 seconds.

       – Benefits: Relaxation, improved sleep, stress management.

    7. Lion’s Breath (Simhasana Pranayama)

       – Method: Open your mouth wide, stick out your tongue, and exhale forcefully.

       – Benefits: Relaxation of throat and facial muscles, release of stress.

    Benefits of Breathing Techniques

    – Stress Reduction: Calms the autonomic nervous system, providing a sense of relaxation.

    – Improved Concentration: Settles the mind, enhancing focus.

    – Physical Health: Better blood circulation and increased oxygen supply, beneficial for overall health.

    – Improved Sleep Quality: The relaxing effect aids in enhancing sleep quality.

    Breathing techniques don’t require any initial investment as they solely involve your body, making them accessible to start immediately. Finding a technique that suits you can greatly improve both your physical and mental well-being.

  • Drink

    Japanese Sake(Nihon-Shu)

    October 2, 2023 - By 

    Hello!

    In our restaurant, sake is immensely popular. Due to numerous inquiries and feedback from our customers, we would like to discuss everything from the basics of sake to its varieties and ways to enjoy it.

    Before we delve deeper into the allure of sake, let’s start with the basics.

    Sake is a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage made from rice, koji (rice malt), water, and yeast. Here are the basic information on its production process and types:

    Production Process

    – Rice Polishing: Before brewing, the outer portion of the rice grain is removed. A lower rice-polishing ratio often results in a higher quality sake.

      – Rice Washing & Soaking: The rice is first washed and then soaked to absorb an appropriate amount of water.

      – Steaming: The washed and soaked rice is steamed.

      – Koji Making: A portion of the steamed rice has koji mold added to make koji rice.

      – Fermentation: Koji rice, steamed rice, water, and yeast are mixed and fermented, with multiple additions made over time.

      – Pressing: Once fermentation is complete, the mash is pressed to separate the clear liquid from the residual solids (lees).

    Ways to Enjoy Sake

    1. Cold Sake (Hiyazake): 

       – This method involves chilling the sake.

       – It’s especially recommended during summer or warmer seasons.

       – It allows you to enjoy a refreshing taste and aroma.

    2. Warm Sake (Atsukan): 

       – Sake is heated to between 40°C to 55°C.

       – Popular during winter or colder seasons.

       – Warming enhances its mellow taste and aroma.

    3. Room Temperature (Jouon):

       – Served neither chilled nor warmed.

       – Lets you directly appreciate the inherent taste and aroma of the sake.

    4. On the Rocks:

       – Served with ice. Enjoyed similarly to whiskey or shochu.

       – Ideal for hot days or pairing with certain meals.

    5. Cocktails:

       – Mixed with other beverages, fruits, or herbs.

       – Discover new flavors and ways to enjoy.

    6. Using Ochoko or Glasses:

       – Whether in a traditional “ochoko”, wine glass, or tumbler, the choice of vessel can influence the flavor and aroma, offering different impressions.

    Sake pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. In our establishment, we especially recommend enjoying it with dishes like mushroom isobe-age (seaweed-wrapped fried mushrooms) and tofu steak.

    With its diverse varieties, and the way its character changes based on temperature, vessel, and method of consumption, sake offers a myriad of experiences. Trying it in different ways can be a journey to find your personal preferences and pairings. We invite you to relish the profound world of sake.

  • Health

    Fasting

    September 13, 2023 - By 

    Hello!

    Today, I want to discuss fasting. I fast once or twice a year. I don’t have a fixed schedule for it, but I choose to fast when I feel my body is sluggish or when I need to focus intensely on something. Based on my experience, fasting makes me feel lighter, improves my concentration, and it seems to slow down the passage of time.

    What are the benefits of fasting?

    1. Weight loss: Limiting caloric intake through fasting can aid in short-term weight management.

    2. Improved insulin sensitivity: Enhanced insulin function can potentially reduce the risk of diabetes.

    3. Promotion of cellular autophagy: This is akin to a “deep cleaning” for cells. It helps remove old and unnecessary cellular components while facilitating the creation of new ones.

    4. Contribution to cardiovascular health: Factors that support the health of the heart and blood vessels, such as blood pressure control and cholesterol improvement, are expected.

    5. Enhanced brain health: It’s believed to stimulate brain activity and promote the growth of nerve cells.

    6. Reduction in inflammation: By decreasing inflammation within the body, there’s potential to reduce the risk of various diseases.

    Recommended foods after fasting

    The post-fast meal is crucial. Suddenly consuming a large or spicy meal can strain the digestive system. Here are some food suggestions suitable for post-fasting:

    1. Vegetable soup: Low-salt vegetable soups are gentle on the stomach and also provide nutrients.

    2. Fermented foods: Products like yogurt, natto, and miso containing lactic acid bacteria support gut health.

    3. Rice dishes or porridge: These are easy to digest and suitable for initial meals after fasting.

    4. Steamed vegetables: Softly cooked veggies offer dietary fiber and nutrients.

    5. Fruits: Soft fruits or smoothies are good for vitamins and minerals intake, but be cautious with high-sugar fruits.

    6. Proteins: Tofu aids in muscle recovery after fasting.

    It’s essential to pay attention to the quantity and choice of food after fasting. It’s advisable to start with small portions and gradually increase. Also, it’s recommended to avoid high-fat, sugary, spicy foods, and caffeinated beverages.

    Before attempting to fast, it’s strongly recommended to seek advice from doctors or nutrition specialists. Depending on the fasting method, duration, and individual health, the appropriate post-fast meal may vary. Fasting isn’t suitable for everyone and needs caution.

    Conclusion

    Many people embrace fasting for its numerous health benefits. However, to maximize its effects, a proper approach is essential. The meals before and after fasting and health management during the fasting period are keys. Above all, it’s crucial to listen to your body and practice fasting safely. Health is a lifelong treasure. By understanding and facing your body’s needs, you can lead a more fulfilling life.

  • vegan food

    Shojin Cuisine: A Buddhist Meal for Purifying the Soul and Nourishing the Body.

    August 23, 2023 - By 

    Hello, everyone! Today, I’d like to delve into the allure and profound history of Japan’s traditional “Shojin cuisine.”

    At our restaurant, we serve dishes in a unique style called “Vegan Japanese.” At the heart of this style lies the philosophy of Japan’s traditional “Shojin cuisine.” Although we do not belong to any specific religion, we truly appreciate and resonate with the philosophy of “purification of the heart” that’s ingrained in Shojin cuisine, as well as the spirit of gratitude towards ingredients. By incorporating this into modern vegan dishes, we aim to provide meals that are both healthy and soothing to the soul.

    Lately, there’s been an increasing demand from our customers for dishes that avoid the “Gokun” (garlic, green onions, ginger, rakkyo, and asafoetida). Known ingredients that are traditionally avoided in Shojin cuisine. In response, we’ve expanded our menu to include more dishes without these ingredients.

    What is Shojin Cuisine? Shojin cuisine is based on Buddhist teachings and uses only plant-based ingredients. The primary purpose of this meal is “to abstain from taking life and to remove worldly desires and disturbances from the mind.” The meal itself is seen as a form of spiritual practice. Especially in Japan, from the Heian period through the Kamakura period, this culinary culture spread alongside Zen Buddhism, forming various rules and philosophies.

    Five Tastes and Six Flavors The “Five Tastes” refer to sweet, sour, bitter, spicy, and salty. When the “mild flavor” (Tanmi), which accentuates the inherent taste of ingredients, is added, it’s called the “Six Flavors.” This philosophy is all about maximizing the natural deliciousness of the ingredients.

    Choosing Ingredients Apart from abstaining from animal-based ingredients, “Gokun” like garlic and green onions are also avoided. This is because Gokun are believed to stimulate desires and anger, thus being unsuitable for purifying the mind.

    Meal as a Spiritual Practice Manners and etiquette during meals are held in high regard. This embodies the gratitude towards food, the attitude of cherishing it, and the pursuit of self-purification as part of the meal ritual.

    Soto Zen School and “Tenzo Kyokun” Within Zen Buddhism, the “Soto Zen” school is particularly renowned for its deep teachings on Shojin cuisine. Its founder, Dogen Zenji, detailed the mindset towards cooking in a text called “Tenzo Kyokun.” Here, respect for ingredients and tools, as well as the importance of “Three Minds,” are discussed. These “Three Minds” are “Joyful Mind” (Kishin) – the joy of cooking and serving; “Caring Mind” (Roshin) – consideration and attention to detail; and “Vast Mind” (Daishin) – a generous heart without prejudice or obstinacy. Even today, these teachings continue to influence many.

    In Conclusion Shojin cuisine, which not only promotes physical health but also pursues peace of mind. Why not immerse yourself in the profound flavors and philosophy of Shojin cuisine? Stay tuned for more heartwarming and delicious stories in our next installment!