Japanese Headbands - Hachimaki

Japanese hachimaki (headbands) are cotton bands tied around the head. Originally - and still today - worn at festivals to ward off evil spirits, they also serve the purpose of keeping hair and perspiration out of the wearer's eyes.

Hachimaki also help the wearer to gather his/her spirits and show determination and resolve. The slight pressure around the forehead helps to improve concentration and speed of thought.