Reina Tanaka, a Japanese actress known for her unwavering dedication to her craft, has been captivating audiences for 26 years. Even after welcoming motherhood and entering her 40s, her passion for acting burns as brightly as ever. In this intimate look into her world, Tanaka reveals the personal items she can’t live without – the tools that support her in her daily life and artistic pursuits.
The Bag That Holds It All:
The Row’s ‘Large N/S Park Tote’Tanaka’s go-to bag is a testament to her appreciation for simplicity and quality. The Row’s ‘Large N/S Park Tote’ features a relaxed, graceful silhouette and luxurious materials, highlighted by a rich, warm brown color that complements any style. “It’s the large size, and it’s a bucket shape, so it’s really big,” she explains. “It can hold absolutely everything, so I chose it because I wanted a work bag where I could just throw things in without thinking.”
Three Essential Items:
1.
A Love-at-First-Sight Phone Case:
Tanaka’s first pick is a vibrant red phone case, a bold statement piece. With its detachable chain, it can be worn around the neck or shoulder, adding a touch of personality to her look. “The AJEW phone case is incredibly practical, with a coin purse and card slots attached,” she shares. “I bought this heart-shaped one because I was drawn to its design. I was originally going to get black, but my daughter insisted on red, so I went with that.” Its generous size and a zippered side pocket provide ample space for essentials like pens, lipstick, and cards.2.
Gentle and Thoughtful Self-Care:
Tanaka believes in harnessing the power of nature through herbal teas and aromatherapy oils. “I use various essential oils, each with its own benefits. For example, eucalyptus is good for the respiratory system, while lemon helps to clear the head.” For this particular occasion, she opts for Shigeta’s Deep Breath, an essential oil that delivers a refreshing and invigorating experience, encouraging deeper breathing. Alongside her Shigeta oil, Tanaka keeps a pouch filled with a personalized roll-on oil blended by a friend and Shigeta’s Herbism Nail Oil, ensuring that self-care is a constant, accessible practice. For those pesky cuticles, she uses the Filimili cuticle pusher from Korea, praising its ideal firmness. “It’s easy to use and perfect for pushing back cuticles. Then, I apply nail oil to keep them looking neat. It’s also great for use during hair appointments when I’m having my hair done.”3.
Finding Connection Through Literature:
“I love reading and always have a book with me,” Tanaka says, sharing her current read – a book about parent-child relationships by a British psychotherapist. This international bestseller, translated into 46 languages and selling over 2 million copies, provides guidance and advice on parenting and relationships, resonating with readers worldwide. “I was intrigued by the title and felt a connection to it, so I picked it up. It has helped me to find a sense of calm when interacting with my daughter.”Reina Tanaka’s dedication to self-care, from her meticulously chosen items to her thoughtful approach to her craft, reflects a deep understanding of her own needs and a commitment to fostering meaningful relationships. This dedication translates into her acting, where her authentic performances resonate with audiences. See more of her insightful selection and behind-the-scenes glimpses in the accompanying video.
