What does it mean to live well? In The Courage to Be Disliked, Ichiro Kishimi writes, “Your life is not something that someone gives you, but something you choose yourself, and you are the one who decides how you live.” 

A life well lived looks different for everyone. It’s not always about chasing grand milestones or waiting for extraordinary moments to arrive. More often than not, living well is about appreciating the quiet, everyday joys—the kind that often go unnoticed. The pleasure of curling up with a book on a rainy afternoon, the warmth of a pet curled at your feet, or the simple comfort of a familiar scent filling the air.

In this exclusive series for ANOTHER LAND, Japanese illustrator Saki Obata explores her interpretation of living well, offering glimpses into small yet meaningful rituals that cultivate a sense of peace and fulfilment.





Connecting with nature through touch

There is something grounding about feeling the world through our senses—dipping our toes into a cool stream, running our fingers across soft petals, or breathing in crisp mountain air. These small encounters have a way of bringing us back to our truest selves, reminding us that we are a small part of something much larger.

“I enjoy the scent of flowers and plants, the way trees change with the seasons,” Saki shares. It is in these quiet moments that we often feel most present and alive.



Carving out a safe and restful space

For those navigating the relentless rhythm of city life, having a place to unwind—whether a cosy, sunlit corner at home or even a favourite café—becomes essential. For Saki, living well means having a space where she can slow down, unwind, and simply be. 

A restful home isn’t about grand design; it’s about how a space makes you feel. Sometimes, relaxation comes from the simplest things—soft, diffused lighting, inviting textures, or the gentle presence of a familiar scent, whether from an aromatic spray or the flickering glow of a candle.

To refresh and restore a space, ANOTHER LAND recommends the Walking Breeze Room Mist, infused with Rose Geranium and Juniper Berry Oil, both known for their calming and stress-relieving properties. A few spritzes into the air, onto cushions, or across bed linens can transform the atmosphere into one of quiet tranquility.

Shop the Walking Breeze Room Mist here

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小幡彩貴 SAKI OBATA
illustrator / graphic designer

Graduating from the Kuwasawa Design Institute in 2009, Saki Obata worked as a graphic designer at NanoNano Graphics from 2010 to 2014. She currently works as a freelance illustrator and graphic designer. Apart from illustrating books, she has also contributed her illustrations to magazines and books. Her personal work includes illustrating seasonal themes.