Slow Waters: with Mai Izumitani

Welcome back to Slow Waters, our new series where we slow down and talk all things soft living, rest and rejuvenation with some of our favourite Homebodies.

This month, we’re chatting with Mai Izumitani, a yoga teacher and ceramicist based in London. Mai's work bridges movement, mindfulness, and creativity - bringing a deep sense of presence to everything she does.

In our latest Slow Waters interview, Mai shares how simplicity, ritual, and stillness shape her world.

 Let's get into it...

Hey Mai! Let's get straight to it -  what does rest mean to you and how does it show up in your life right now?

Do you have a body care ritual - big or small - that helps you come back to yourself when the world gets too loud?

On hair-wash days, I exfoliate head-to-toe, starting with a scalp massage and finishing with a generous layer of moisture (I have a lot of body creams but MIRROR WATER SMOOTH Body Oil is truly my favourite). Evening showers are a ritual for me - the feeling of washing the day away as a release.

Rest can be so much more than sleep! What are some unexpected ways you’ve learned to recharge?

Talk to us about the power of yoga! How does your practice support your relationship with rest? Is there a particular pose or breathing technique you turn to in moments of overwhelm?

Stepping onto my mat is a physical reminder I can step away from being switched on. When life feels overwhelming, I lean towards slow, restorative yin practices; other times, I choose something more dynamic to shake off any stagnant feelings. The beauty of yoga is there's always something to meet you where you are.

We’re such big fans of your ceramics -  how does creating with your hands support slowness and stillness in your life?

What’s a scent or texture that brings you deep comfort?

The feeling of warm water when I step into a bath after a long, busy day - it's so soothing. 

What’s a book, tv show, podcast, or song that helps you relax?

What does your ideal slow day look like?

Rolling around in bed with a matcha, moving my body through a workout or yoga, playing with clay, making dumplings and a post-dinner evening stroll.

Connect with Mai ↓

maizustudios.com
Instagram