Loosely translated, haramaki comes from the Japanese words hara, meaning the center of the body, and maki, meaning 'to wrap up', much in the same way a maki sushi roll is wrapped up. The word haramaki refers to what was historically a Samurai armor which gradually evolved into a special tubular garment that is worn around the midsection of the body as a belly band! 

Why wear haramaki?
Haramaki belly bands are worn to increase circulation in the internal organs, which generates warmth throughout the entire body. Once worn mainly as an undergarment in Japan, haramaki belly bands have seen a resurgence in recent years in Japanese fashion, acting as both a fashion and health accessory. For more information on the benefits of wearing haramaki belly bands, click here. For information on haramaki as a pregnancy band, click here.