For generations, a quiet, consistent habit has been part of the daily rhythm in Japanese homes, especially among elders known for their longevity and vitality. It’s not a complicated cleanse or a bitter supplement—it’s the gentle, intentional practice of starting the day with a warm, alkaline beverage to “wake up” the digestive system.

This ritual aligns with the Japanese principle of “hara hachi bu” (eating until you are 80% full) and the belief in caring for the internal environment first thing in the morning, before the demands of the day begin.

The Core Habit: Morning Hydration with a Twist

The practice is straightforward:

Upon waking, before eating or drinking anything else, slowly sip a cup of warm liquid.

The temperature should be warm or hot, but comfortable—never scalding.

Drink it mindfully, sitting down if possible, allowing your body to ease into the day.

This simple act signals the gastrocolic reflex, gently stimulating the digestive tract to promote peristalsis (the wave-like muscle contractions that move waste through the colon). It helps hydrate the body after a night’s rest and can soften stool, supporting regularity.

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