As the weather gently shifts and the flowers begin to bloom in earnest, we find ourselves enveloped in the refreshing embrace of spring. This season, more than any other, is a time of fresh beginnings. With this atmosphere of transformation and the promise of brighter days, why not embark on a new endeavor? Perhaps you could start a new project or journey in your TRAVELER’S notebook, accompanied by the comforting 10-minute aroma of hibi incense.
The staff of TRAVELER’S COMPANY USA would like to share a few comforting rituals when sitting down with their TRAVELER’S notebook. From starting a new notebook to setting the atmosphere for reflection, there are many ways to enjoy a relaxing moment with yourself.
Lighting up hibi, a scent that sets the scene
Scent is a powerful, evocative tool that is intimately linked with our memory. Creating a comforting, serene space can be achieved by filling it with an aroma that is familiar and linked to positive memories. Using hibi, a unique incense shaped like a matchstick, you can easily create a comforting space, whether at home or on a short trip.
“hibi” is a new style of incense that can be lit and used like a match It was created through a collaboration between the Kobe Match Corporation, which has been making matches since its establishment in 1929 as a local industry in Himeji, and an incense manufacturer on Awaji Island that makes 70% of all incense in Japan. The matchbox-like package comes with a special non-flammable mat on which the incense can be placed so that you can easily enjoy 10 minutes of pleasant fragrance anywhere in your daily life.
Take out a stick of the hibi incense and press its top tip against the brown rough area on the back side of the inner box at an angle 45 degrees, and strike in the direction of the arrow in the photo (diagonally down) to light it as you would a regular match. Hold the stick at its mid-point to avoid it breaking.
Once the incense stick is ignited, hold the incense stick with your fingers slightly away from the flame and keep holding it until the flame spreads away from the head and onto the incense stick. At this point the flame will subside. Keep in mind, if you extinguish the flame too quickly before it settles, the fire may not spread to the incense.
Finally, place the supplied mat and foil paper (silver cardboard) in a non-flammable tray. Lay the incense stick on the mat and enjoy the fragrance for around 10 minutes. If you do not place the foil paper under the mat, tar will stick to the tray. Also, please do not place the mat directly on a table.
Connecting aroma to memory
The most comforting spaces are those that evoke a sense of ease and relaxed energy because they transport us back to a happy memory or time. Lighting hibi incense while working on your projects in your TRAVELER’S notebook can be a wonderful way to create a comforting, peaceful space as you work on your spring projects.
The power of scent and aroma can allow us to be transported to different locations or past experiences, like how looking at old travel journal refills from your TRAVELER’S notebook can transport you back to your past travels. The “Hinoki”, or Japanese Cypress hibi incense, can teleport you to your previous travels in Japan. For our staff, it reminds us of a serene temple visit during the cool fall days.
Similarly, the delightful “Geranium” hibi Incense might whisk you back to Italy, where “Geranium” flowers litter the historic streets with their rose-like fragrance.
The refreshing “Tea Tree” hibi incense might transport you to a lush garden teeming with herbs and produce, its cool and herbaceous aroma filling your senses.
An invigorating way to start new projects
As we welcome spring, embrace the journey of new beginnings with your TRAVELER’S notebook. Let the comforting aroma of hibi incense fill your space, evoking cherished memories and inspiring progress.
Starting a new TRAVELER’S notebook refill is always exciting and refreshing. This spring, consider dedicating a new refill to your springtime projects. It could be as simple as planning a spring-cleaning task that revitalizes your surroundings, or maybe you’d like to document a memorable trip you took earlier in the year. This spring season provides the perfect backdrop for new challenges and experiences.
After a busy first quarter, the staff took some time to reflect on their recent trip to Tokyo and the fun memories they’ve gathered. For another team member, she started a fresh refill to plan out exciting summer adventures ahead. No matter what project or trip lies ahead, remember that each step is a part of your unique journey.
Whichever hibi incense you choose; rest assured it will envelop you in a calming scent to accompany your projects.
Have a nice trip!
