At KIM+ONO, our family heritage has always been an integral part of our story. As children, our co-founders, sisters Renee and Tiffany Tam, traveled with their parents on business trips to Asia. Their parents’ business included working with artisans and sourcing items inspired by their family roots. Thirty years later, as the Tam daughters took over and rebranded the family business to focus on floral kimono robes, that same connection to heritage has remained. Every flower kimono robe weaves in the history, heritage, and inspiration from the Tam family into meaningful pieces you can wear every day. And we want that connection to your roots, too.
We move fast in daily life — it’s easy to forget where we come from. When we lose touch with our roots, our heritage, and the essence of who we are, it can make us feel scattered and ungrounded. However, reconnecting with our roots can help us reconnect with the identities that bring us calm, instilling a sense of peace knowing that we are part of a larger whole. Whether it's exploring our own cultural heritage, reconnecting with nature, or simply taking a moment to reflect on where we come from, there are many ways to reconnect with our roots. Here are five powerful methods to help you embark on this journey of rediscovery:
Box breathing, also known as square breathing, is a simple yet impactful breathwork technique used to calm the mind and body. This ancient practice has been passed down through generations in various cultures, serving as a powerful tool for grounding and centering oneself. To practice box breathing, start by sitting or lying down in a comfortable position. You might slip into your long kimono robe and set an intention for your practice, based on what will feel the most calming in the moment. Then, close your eyes and take a deep breath in through your nose, counting to four as you inhale. Hold your breath for a count of four, then exhale slowly through your mouth, again counting to four. Finally, pause for another count of four before taking your next breath. Repeat this cycle for several minutes, allowing yourself to sink into a state of deep relaxation. As you breathe, imagine yourself connecting with the wisdom and resilience of your ancestors, drawing strength from their stories, their lives, and their presence in your own story.
Clothing has long been a powerful expression of cultural identity and heritage. Our maxi kimono robes and wraps were intended to be a direct connection to our own founders’ heritage. And we know that when you wear garments and accessories connected to your roots, it’s a beautiful way to celebrate your roots. Take some time to explore your cultural heritage and learn about traditional clothing styles and symbols. Whether it's a traditional garment passed down through generations or a piece of jewelry adorned with cultural significance, wearing these items can serve as a tangible connection to your roots. Don't be afraid to incorporate elements of your heritage into your everyday wardrobe. We designed our flower kimono robes to be heirloom pieces that could be worn every day. So whether it's a scarf with meaningful colors from your heritage, or jewelry featuring traditional symbols, let these pieces serve as reminders of who you are and where you come from.
Our senses have a powerful ability to evoke memories and emotions, making sensory experiences a powerful tool for reconnecting with our roots. Take some time to immerse yourself in sensory experiences that remind you of your heritage and upbringing. Whether that’s the sensory experience of wear a silky floral kimono robe, the aroma of familiar spices and flavors in cultural food, or listening to music or sounds from your ancestral homeland, lighting up your senses is a beautiful way to reconnect to your roots.
We’re all part of the earth, and being in nature can be so helpful in grounding us and connecting us to something greater than ourselves. Going for a walk in nature can be a powerful way to reconnect with our roots and tap into the wisdom of our ancestors. Create a whole ritual out of it. Slip into your long kimono robe as a lightweight jacket, set an intention, and head outside. Instead of following a predetermined path, allow yourself to wander and follow your intuition. Pay attention to the sights, sounds, and sensations around you, allowing them to guide you on your journey. As you walk, see yourself in your maxi kimono robe in your mind’s eye — then imagine yourself walking in the footsteps of your ancestors, drawing strength and guidance from their ancient wisdom. Take time to appreciate the beauty and abundance of the natural world, knowing that you are part of something much larger than yourself.
Morning pages, a practice popularized by author Julia Cameron, involve writing three pages of stream-of-consciousness writing first thing in the morning. This practice can be a powerful way to tap into our subconscious mind and connect with our innermost thoughts and feelings. Set aside some time each morning to write without judgment or censorship, allowing your thoughts and emotions to flow freely onto the page. Many people practice this as soon as they wake up. So you can set your alarm to wake up, wrap up in your floral kimono robe, and use this time to reflect on your heritage, ancestry, and the values passed down to you through generations. As you write, allow yourself to explore your identity and connection to your roots. Let your words serve as a bridge between the past, present, and future, guiding you back to the wisdom you have always been connected to.
Reconnecting with our roots is an essential part of understanding who we are and where we come from. Whether through breathwork, clothing, sensory experiences, intuitive walks, or journaling, there are many ways to tap into the wisdom of our ancestors and embrace our cultural heritage. By incorporating these practices into our daily lives, we can cultivate a deeper sense of identity, belonging, and purpose. So take a moment to honor your roots, for they are the foundation upon which your journey is built.
