For me the special warmth, freshness and magic of this time of year is beautifully embodied in its piny scents. The pine of Christmas trees and wreaths segues nicely into the pine of Japanese New Year displays.
Both sources of pine are laden with ritual meaning and talismanic potency, but the plant also has a respectable history in both medicine and beauty.
The pine tree, in many belief systems, is symbolic of eternal rebirth, purification and new beginnings.