Matcha Mum's

In this episode, I’m speaking with Denitsa, founder of Wabi Tabi, a holistic health and wellness practice rooted in the idea of balance. As a certified Macrobiotic Health Coach, she combines principles of Eastern healing, nutrition, and mindful living to support individuals in creating sustainable well-being. Originally from Europe and now based in Tokyo, Denitsa brings a cross-cultural perspective to health, family life, and personal growth. Her work is deeply influenced by the philosophy of finding simplicity and authenticity in everyday life.What we talk about:Why “balance” is often misunderstood, especially for mothersHow children can mirror the emotional state of their parentsNavigating motherhood and identity across different culturesThe role of imperfection and why letting go of perfectionism mattersHow Denitsa structures her daily life to create a more grounded rhythmKey takeaways for listeners:Balance is not something you achieve once - it’s something you continuously adjustEmotional awareness as a parent directly shapes the family environmentSmall, consistent lifestyle choices often matter more than big changesLetting go of perfection can create more space for connection and easeCultural perspectives can influence how we approach parenting, health, and workMore Infos of Denitsa: Webside: https://www.wabitabime.comAlongside this episode, Denitsa is hosting an intimate two-day retreat by the ocean on April 25–26 — with more retreats planned in the future. The experience includes a one-night stay in a four-star oceanfront hotel, shared meals, a boat trip to an uninhabited island, a tropical garden picnic, onsen and relaxation time, guided reflection sessions, gentle Do-In exercises by the sea, a temple visit, and a few thoughtfully curated touches throughout.Contact Information:Host: TamaraE-Mail: [email protected]

What changes once you have a baby in Japan?In this episode of Matcha Mums, I talk about everyday family infrastructure in the Tokyo area — from navigating trains with a stroller to baby rooms in shopping malls, child-friendly restaurants, and hidden playgrounds across the city.I also highlight Kosodate Hiroba (Child-Rearing Support Centers) — free community spaces where parents with young children can meet, play, and get advice from childcare professionals.This episode is especially helpful for:New parents in JapanFamilies who recently moved hereExpecting parents wondering what daily life with a baby looks likeA practical and honest look at getting around Japan with a baby or toddler.https://www.city.yokohama.lg.jp/lang/residents/en/child/20200325105507586.htmlhttps://honyaku.j-server.com/LUCFUKUSIA/ns/tl.cgi/https://www.fukushi.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/kodomo/kosodate/hiroba?SLANG=ja&TLANG=en&XMODE=0&XCHARSET=utf-8&XJSID=0Contact Information:Host: TamaraE-Mail: [email protected]

How does the childcare system in Japan work? In this episode, I explain the main types of childcare facilities and how parents apply for daycare. I walk through the differences between Hoikuen, Yōchien, and Nintei Kodomoen and private daycare options.I also share our personal experience applying for daycare, including the point system, the application timeline, and what daily life in a Japanese daycare looks like.What you’ll learn in this episode:An overview of the different day care facilities: private vs. public options How the application process works (and why timing matters)And what daily life inside a Japanese daycare actually looks likeContact Information:Host: TamaraE-Mail: [email protected]

Moving countries is one thing. Moving countries with a small child while working full-time across time zones is something else entirely.In this first episode, I share our story of returning to Japan as a family: arriving in February 2024, starting work immediately, bridging two months without childcare, and navigating the cultural shock of Japanese nursery life.I talk about:The reality of restarting work on a German contract while living in JapanThe emotional and cultural differences between German daycare and Japanese hoikuenWatching a child learn a new language almost overnightThe quiet social codes of everyday life around Tokyo and YokohamaAnd why building community as a working mother abroad can take longer than expectedThis episode is an honest starting point about transition, identity, work, motherhood, and rebuilding a sense of belonging between cultures.Contact Information:Host: TamaraE-Mail: [email protected]

Welcome to Matcha Mum’s, a podcast about raising children in Japan as an international family.Matcha Mum’s explores the everyday realities of parenting in a different country, understanding the Japanese system for families, and creating balance between career and home.This podcast is a space for honest reflections, personal experiences, and conversations about what it means to raise children between cultures. You can expect:Personal stories about building family life in JapanReflections on navigating structures and expectationsConversations about identity, belonging, and mindful working parenthoodGuest perspectives from other international mums and dadsIf you are an international parent in Japan this podcast aims to connect, inspire, and open perspectives.🎧 The first full episode is already online, where I share our story and what brought us here.