July Birth Bread
Birth Bread
Focaccia
Focaccia is a flat bread originating from Genoa, Italy, with a history dating back to ancient Roman times. Its name derives from the Latin 'focus' (hearth), meaning 'baked by fire.' The glossy sheen of olive oil on its surface symbolizes the Mediterranean sun, while scattered rosemary and olives represent the earth's abundance. In Italian households, it's cherished as a dish that deepens family bonds on special occasions, and in regional festivals, it serves as a symbol of joy shared among people gathering together. The salt kneaded into the dough has been considered sacred with purifying powers since ancient times, embodying the Mediterranean tradition of the 'covenant of bread and salt' that binds those who share the meal. Even today, its diverse toppings represent creativity and freedom of expression, giving us the same festive spirit and openness as July summer festivals.
Features
- Unique method of creating dimples with fingers in flat dough and soaking with olive oil
- Rich expression through diverse toppings like rosemary, olives, tomatoes, and cheese
- Harmonious contrast of crispy exterior and chewy interior texture
- Golden shine of olive oil reminiscent of Mediterranean sunlight
- Festive aroma of herbs creating a summer festival-like fragrance
Personality
- Cheerful and open personality, a natural entertainer who brightens any gathering
- Possesses a tolerant heart that embraces diversity, enjoying self-expression through various toppings
- Finds joy in sharing and possesses social charm that brings people together
- A well-balanced presence that values tradition while not fearing innovation
- Inspiring power that embraces surroundings with sun-like warmth and encourages creative expression
Symbolic Meaning
- Festive joy and community bonds - Symbol of happiness shared when people gather
- Sun's blessings and Mediterranean culture - Gratitude to nature embodied in olive oil
- Creativity and freedom of expression - Respect for individuality shown through diverse toppings
- Sacred covenant and purification - Pledge of trust and friendship bound by bread and salt
- Abundance and prosperity - Cycle of life represented by earth's harvest and hearth's warmth
Reason for Selection
- Possesses the approachability and splendor of July summer festival stalls, with a festive character that entertains people
- Diversity decorated with various toppings like Tanabata strips, and cultural meaning of embedding wishes
- Shine of olive oil reminiscent of midsummer sun and openness symbolizing Mediterranean summer
- Festival excitement created by herb fragrances and resonance with summer's cheerful energy
- Ancient relationship with fire deeply connects with the passionate spirit of July's season
Protection & Effects
- Grants the power to enjoy life and mental strength to maintain brightness even in difficult situations
- Enhances creative expression and gives courage to value one's authenticity
- Improves sociability and communication skills, helping to build good relationships
- Nurtures the spirit of sharing, fostering altruistic heart and tolerance
- Envelops surroundings with Mediterranean sun-like warm affection, bringing healing power
Trials & Growth
- Tendency to remain at superficial splendor, risking loss of deep spirituality and seriousness
- Nature prone to self-sacrifice by focusing too much on entertaining others
- Challenge of making core values ambiguous by overemphasizing diversity
- Tendency to suppress true emotions due to pressure to always act brightly
- Emptiness after festivals and weakness in seeking momentary joy over sustained effort