Wabi Sabi - The Perfectly Imperfect Podcast with Candice Kumai

What actually keeps your body fit for decades? In this episode of the Wabi Sabi Podcast, I’m sharing the workouts and wellness practices I have returned to for nearly 30 years, from barre, Pilates, cycling, yoga, surfing, swimming and strength training to the practice I now consider my special sauce: meditation. I break down the science behind what really helps your body stay strong, mobile and resilient over time, why consistency matters more than quick fixes, and why training your nervous system may be just as important as training your muscles. After nearly three decades in modeling, fitness, food and wellness, I have seen trends come and go, but the practices that truly last are usually the simplest ones. This is a candid conversation about movement, longevity, body image, recovery, meditation and what it really means to take care of yourself for the long haul. Thank you for listening! Please share with two best friends. x Candice

In this special Japan episode of Wabi Sabi, I’m sharing the unwritten cultural rules every traveler should know before visiting Japan. Drawing from my Japanese American heritage and a lifetime of traveling throughout the country, I’m opening up the thoughtful customs, quiet gestures, and insider knowledge that can completely transform the way you experience Japan. From showing respect at temples and shrines to supporting local businesses, understanding omamori, honoring elders, and moving through sacred spaces with care, consider this your guide to experiencing Japan with greater depth, beauty, and connection, from your Japanese American best friend. Thank you for listening! Please share this podcast with two friends! xx Candice

In this episode, I’m sharing my Ultimate Summer Glow-Up Guide and everything I genuinely rely on to support healthy-looking skin, stronger hair, steady energy, recovery, and long-term wellness.
This is not about crash diets, expensive powders, or chasing one magic ingredient. It is about the small, cumulative habits that actually matter: eating enough protein, choosing healthy fats, adding more color to your plate, hydrating properly, protecting your skin, sleeping well, and building meals that keep you nourished and energized.
I’m also breaking down four of my newest TODAY Show recipes, including my iced strawberry matcha latte, creamy avocado pesto pasta, chili-lime miso sweet potatoes, and honey-miso glazed salmon, plus easy ways to adapt each one throughout the week.
With lessons from my Japanese family, more than 20 years as a chef and wellness journalist, and everything I have learned through my own recovery, this episode is a practical guide to helping you look and feel your best all summer and for years to come. Thank you for listening xx ck

Hi Friend, today we're talking about something that's incredibly close to my heart: healing.
Whether you're recovering from surgery, healing from an injury, navigating illness, moving through grief, burnout, or simply trying to feel like yourself again, I hope this episode reminds you that healing is never about perfection. It's about giving yourself the time, grace, and nourishment your body deserves.
Over the past few weeks, I've been reminded just how extraordinary the human body really is. I recently underwent hip surgery, and while I intentionally kept much of my recovery private, I spent that quiet time doing what I've always done best: learning, reflecting, cooking, and listening to my body.
As a classically trained chef I believe food is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. It can't replace a great surgeon, physical therapist, or medical care, but it can provide the building blocks our bodies need to repair, recover, and regain strength. Every meal is an opportunity to nourish ourselves from the inside out.
Today, I'm sharing the healing foods that filled my kitchen during recovery and the science behind why they matter. We'll talk about protein, leafy greens, berries, sweet potatoes, ginger, turmeric, bone broth, healthy fats, hydration, and simple meals that are comforting, nourishing, and easy to make. I'll also share a few lessons this season has taught me about slowing down, accepting help, and finding gratitude in the smallest moments.
If this episode resonates with you, I hope you'll share it with someone who needs a little encouragement today. Maybe it's a friend recovering from surgery, a parent caring for a loved one, someone feeling burned out, or simply someone who could use the reminder that healing takes time and they're not alone.
So make yourself a cup of tea, take a deep breath, and let's spend a little time together. This is an episode about nourishing your body, honoring your resilience, and remembering that every small act of care is a step toward healing.

As we step into June, I wanted to share a little slice of joy, strength, and perspective. For anyone who has been criticized, overlooked, misunderstood, embarrassed, rejected, or quietly left wondering, Do I still have what it takes?
I know that feeling.
I know what it feels like to keep showing up, to do the right thing, to give 150%, to stay gracious, to work hard, and still feel like the world does not always meet you with the same care. I know what it feels like to be exhausted and still have to perform. To be strong and still feel unseen. To wonder whether you should keep walking the same path, or finally stop, recalibrate, and begin again.
And recently, strangely enough, the thing that reminded me not to give up was basketball.
More specifically, the New York Knicks.
I’ve lived in New York for 14 years, so yes, this team has become part of my story. But this season, watching them felt bigger than being a fan. It felt bigger than a game. It felt like watching a group of people carry their scars openly and still choose to fight.
That is why sports can move us so deeply.
Because the game becomes a mirror.
We see ourselves in the player who was underestimated.