Harmonize from within at Nifu Fermentation Bath, enhancing natural circulation

As the heat intensifies, escaping indoors from the scorching outdoor temperatures that seem to reach 40 degrees, we are greeted by overly aggressive air conditioning, making it uncomfortably cold and seemingly prone to catching a cold. In fact, throughout the year, we are plagued by such temperature fluctuations. In this situation, it’s easy for us to lose our ability to independently balance our body’s inner state.

What is “fermentation bathing”?

To counteract the weakened self-regulating power of our bodies, there is a method known as “fermentation bathing.” This method utilizes the natural power of fermentation to warm our bodies from within. You can expect it to contribute to fundamental improvements in factors such as basal metabolism, core body temperature and immune system strength, leading to the overall enhancement of our physical constitution.

“Nifu” utilizes Hinoki sawdust for their fermentation bath

Nifu is a specialized bath facility exclusively for women, with nine branches in the Kanto region, including Jiyugaoka and Kichijoji, and one branch in Osaka. What sets it apart is its unique approach to bathing, using only natural fermentation heat derived from sawdust (Ogakuzu in Japanese), sourced from the lush mountainous region of Yoshino in Nara Prefecture. This allows them to provide a bathing experience that does not rely on electricity or gas.

Nifu’s original development, the “Nifu seed culture,” is used to ferment a unique blend of Hinoki powder mixed with rice bran in Hinoki leaf. This Hinoki powder generates heat at temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 degrees Celsius. As a result, during the bathing experience, the powder creates an airy, fluffy sensation, with the perceived body temperature reaching around 40 degrees Celsius. Alongside the pleasant aroma of Hinoki, it also effectively warms the body from deep within. The materials used in the bathing facility are recycled by transporting them to agricultural fields and utilizing them as compost for vegetable cultivation or as bedding material in livestock sheds, ensuring a circular and sustainable approach.

Nifu, the fermentation bath facility, was established in 2013. The Ogakuzu used as a bathing material since its inception is the “ground powder” discharged during the processing of Hinoki (Japanese cypress) lumber. In Yoshino, Nara, where the production of lumber from century-old giant Hinoki trees is not uncommon, the finely textured ground powder of Hinoki is of exceptional quality. With its fine texture and abundant essential oil content, it offers a pleasant fragrance and potential beauty and health benefits, making it the highest quality material for Nifu.

A bath facility that tackles local forestry challenges

Furthermore, they not only procure such Ogakuzu but also have their own lumber processing facility in Yoshino, Nara Prefecture. They collaborate with local forestry workers to address the issue of neglected forests, undertaking tasks such as pruning branches, thinning and utilizing residual materials from forested areas. Through their activities with Nifu, they aim to convey the appeal of forestry in Yoshino while tackling various challenges faced by the local forestry industry.

Improving one’s own “bodily circulation” also enhances the “natural circulation.” Why not visit and experience the fermentation bath that not only benefits yourself but also contributes to the well-being of nature? Take the opportunity to try it out for yourself!

[Official site] Nifu

Originally published on Livhub.