Craft Your 2025 Wishes in Japanese Calligraphy: Get a Free Personalized Art Piece!
Celebrate the New Year with a Handcrafted Calligraphy Piece that Reflects Your 2025 Aspirations.
As we bid farewell to 2024 and welcome the promise of a new year, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude. This year, I've had the privilege of starting something new—this very newsletter! To everyone who has been reading and supporting my journey, thank you. Your interest means a lot to me, and I look forward to sharing more meaningful experiences with you in the year to come.
Today, on the cusp of a new beginning, I want to offer you something special—a small gift to help usher in 2025 with hope and positivity. In the spirit of the Japanese New Year, I’d love to help you turn your aspirations for the coming year into a timeless work of art, through the beautiful tradition of Kakizome (書き初め), the Japanese New Year’s calligraphy.
Ever Dreamt of Turning Your Wishes into a Work of Art?
Imagine your most heartfelt hopes for 2025, beautifully written in the flowing strokes of Japanese calligraphy. That's exactly what I'm offering today—a chance to have your personal New Year’s resolution or aspiration transformed into a Kakizome piece, entirely customized to your vision.
This isn’t just any newsletter. It’s an opportunity to step into the enchanting world of Shodo (Japanese calligraphy) and make your wishes for the new year come alive as a lasting gift. Join me as we unlock the magic of this ancient art form, and together, we’ll craft something uniquely yours!
What is Kakizome? The Tradition of Writing the First Calligraphy of the Year
Kakizome is the Japanese tradition of writing the first calligraphy of the New Year. Dating back to the Heian period (794–1185), it originally started as a formal court ritual but has since evolved into a cherished practice across Japan.
The act itself is deeply symbolic—through the art of writing, individuals express their hopes and intentions for the coming year. Often, people write auspicious words or short poems, with each character carefully crafted to reflect their desires for the future. The first strokes of the year are said to carry the energy of one's resolutions, setting a positive tone for all that lies ahead.
The Art of Shodo and Kakizome Today
Though the art of Shodo—or Japanese calligraphy—has ancient roots, it remains a vital part of Japanese culture today. Young children learn it in school, and many take part in Kakizome at the start of the year, carefully selecting words that resonate with their goals for the year ahead.
While modern-day Japan often uses ballpoint pens and digital devices for everyday writing, the practice of Shodo continues to be deeply revered. It’s not just about penmanship; it’s about mindfulness, tradition, and the power of intention. Writing by hand, especially with a brush and ink, is an act of focus and meditation.
My Personal Journey with Calligraphy
As for me, Japanese calligraphy has been a lifelong passion. I began studying Shodo at the age of 7, and continued for more than a decade until I moved abroad at 17. Calligraphy became more than just an art form for me—it was a source of peace and reflection, teaching me the beauty of Japanese words and how they can shape one's way of thinking.
Throughout my youth, I dedicated myself to mastering Shodo, eventually achieving the highest grade in Japanese calligraphy and winning national competitions. I even considered pursuing a career as a professional calligrapher. To this day, calligraphy remains a core part of my life, shaping my perspective and fueling my creativity. Sharing my artwork on Instagram was a way to connect with others who appreciate this art form as much as I do.
Words for Your Kakizome: What Will You Write?
For Kakizome, people often choose words that symbolize their hopes for the year ahead. Here are a few popular examples:
一期一会 (Ichigo-Ichie): "Once in a lifetime encounter."
This phrase reminds us to cherish the fleeting moments and relationships in life, and to live fully in the present.
初志貫徹 (Shoshi-Kantetsu): "Maintain the original resolve."
A powerful reminder to stay true to our intentions and not to be swayed from our goals, no matter what challenges arise.
有言実行 (Yugen-Jikko): "Actions speak louder than words."
This phrase encourages us to follow through with our promises, emphasizing the importance of action over mere intention.
But the words that resonate with you may be completely unique to your personal journey. And that’s where I come in!
Your Free Kakizome Session: A Personalized Gift for You
I’m excited to offer you a complimentary 30-minute session where we’ll craft a custom Kakizome piece based on your own aspirations for 2025. Whether it's a single word, a short phrase, or an expression that embodies your goals for the coming year, I’ll bring it to life in the art of Japanese calligraphy.
Here’s some of my calligraphy work below ↓
Here’s how you can apply for your personalized session:
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Comment below with “I want a Kakizome piece for 2025!” or share your resolution for the new year.
Once you’ve completed these steps, I’ll get in touch with you to schedule your session and start creating your unique calligraphy piece!
Please note: Due to the personalized nature of this offer, spots are limited and may close sooner than expected. So don’t wait—secure your spot today!
I can’t wait to help you start the year with a beautiful, meaningful gesture that honors your goals for 2025.
Wishing you a joyful and prosperous New Year ahead!
Warmly,
Japan Wellness Lab