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My shaded past...

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𝔞𝔩𝔩 𝔱𝔥𝔢𝔯𝔢 𝔦𝔰

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This summer: less noise, more nuance.

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A summer of unspoken things—cold drinks, warm thoughts, silk sheets.

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check out my first account!

My ideal routine in Japan would be structured, purposeful, and self-empowering. I crave efficiency, mental and intellectual stimulation, independence, and control. I hope this can be an inspiration to plan out your routine in your ideal destination!

5:30 AM – 8:00 AM | Morning Discipline & Prime the Mind

Wake up in a clean, minimal ryokan or capsule hotel: There’s something profound about waking up before the world moves. At 5:30 AM, Tokyo is hushed and efficient. The chaos hasn’t started yet—and that’s exactly when I want to start. The air feels crisp, almost untouched, as the city slowly stirs to life. I grab a quick coffee from a vending machine, its warmth cutting through the cool morning. The streets are nearly empty, save for a few early risers and delivery workers. This is the perfect time to wander, to soak in the quiet beauty of Tokyo before its energy surges.

essential skin care, clean outfit, stretch in silence: I take a moment to stretch in silence, letting my mind settle and my body prepare for the day ahead. I'm not the type of person to have a 15-step skincare routine; I like a basic and efficient routine. After, I am most likely to wear an academic, androgynous, minimalist outfit catering to my personal style that I got from a Japanese thrift store.

1:30 PM – 4:30 PM | Intellectual Deep Dive & Tactical Exploration

Every morning has a target. I don’t wander; I hunt insights. On Monday, I go to Miraikan. Study exhibits on AI, robotics, and space; take notes on Japan’s vision of the future. On Tuesday, I will analyze philosophy in Kyoto’s gardens. On Wednesday, I visit some of the best of Japan's Brutalist buildings. I treat each location like a case study.

Eat quietly at a minimal spot (a soba bar or bento cafe): Journal about what I learned that day, After lunch, I might take a stroll through a nearby park or visit a local art gallery. These moments of leisure are vital for recharging my mind and sparking new ideas. They remind me of the beauty that exists in everyday life and the importance of taking time to enjoy it.

4:30 PM – 6:00 PM | Reflective Transition & Tactical Planning

As the afternoon transitions into evening, I carve out time for productive solitude. This is when I reflect, strategize, and plan for the future. I find a quiet café or a library, an atmosphere that fosters focus. With a cup of matcha or hojicha by my side, I delve into my personal projects or professional goals. Around this time, I might head to a serene yet functional gym in Tokyo. Alternatively, I could participate in a martial arts class, such as kendo or aikido, immersing myself in the discipline and philosophy behind these practices.

I also use this time to plan the next day meticulously. Whether it’s mapping out the logistics of visiting a cultural site, scheduling work or study sessions, or noting down books or articles to read, this planning phase is essential. It allows me to maintain control and ensures that each day has purpose and direction.

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Culinary Simplicity & Evening Calm

Back at my accommodation, I prepare a minimalist but satisfying meal—perhaps a fresh salad, miso soup, or rice with grilled fish. Cooking in a small, functional kitchen feels meditative, and I enjoy the process as much as the result. I eat slowly, savoring each bite, while reflecting on the day’s experiences. If I’m not in the mood to cook, I might visit a quiet izakaya or a cozy soup shop nearby, enjoying the ambiance of the space.

8:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Solitude & Creative Play

By this time, the city outside begins to wind down, and so do I. I retreat to my room, dim the lights, and create a cozy atmosphere. I put on a jazz record or some other music, letting the sound wash over me. This is my time for creative play—building a space-themed LEGO set, sketching ideas in a notebook, or even writing down thoughts and plans for the future. The tactile nature of these activities feels grounding and satisfying, allowing me to unwind in a way that’s both productive and restorative.

10:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Wind Down & Prepare for Tomorrow

As the day comes to a close, I focus on winding down my mind and body. I take a warm shower, enjoying the sensation of the water washing away the day’s stresses. My evening skincare routine is quick and efficient, just enough to feel refreshed. Before bed, I might read a few pages of a book—something thought-provoking with darker themes but not too heavy—or listen to a relaxing podcast. By 11:00 PM, I’m in bed, ready to recharge and prepare for another purposeful day ahead.

This structured yet flexible routine allows me to balance productivity and leisure, independence and connection, stimulation and tranquility, all while embracing the unique rhythm of life in Japan.

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Jan Smuts Airport, Johannesburg, South Africa, 1970

(Unknown Architect)

FYB is going on indefinite hiatus to rethink and retool. Back soon. In the meantime you can revisit more than 2500 posts in the archive.

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THIS IS FOR THE C O O L.

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S U N D A Y.

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hello, you 🤺͟ ㅤ ׄ

⭑ gracie, minor, american, entj 6w5, wannabe academic, stem & literature enthusiast.

⭑ favorites: literature, STEM, anime, learning, cats, music, windy autumn weather, books, clean spaces, art, philosophy, dark humor, typology, thrifting, & typology.

⭑ dislikes: overdramatic people, insects, victim complexes, hot weather, loud music, overstimulation, inefficiency, ignorance, stereotypes, pseudo-intellects, & small talk.

⭑ blog style: moodboards, dark academia, study motivation, book recommendations, polls, & other random things...

☕︎ listening. a lot of beach house, tamino, CAS, and cocteau twins

☕︎ watching. criminal minds.

☕︎ reading. crime and punishment.

[ 1 ] Read 6 books this summer - 2 books per month to expand knowledge, start with 15 minutes and build up to 45 minutes a day.

[ 2 ] Spend 1 hour daily doing online learning courses. (5 - 20 minutes per course). feel free to recommend me books you think I would like!

𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨...

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