Diving into the Essence of Japanese Culture: A Personal Journey into the Art of Sakudō

Good morning, dear readers! Today, I invite you on an intimate exploration of my recent experiences and the profound insights I’ve gained from immersing myself in the heart of Japanese culture. Our focus is on Sakudō, an art form that beautifully encapsulates the essence of Japanese aesthetics and philosophy. However, this journey transcends mere artistic expression; it is a path of self-discovery, learning, and embracing a unique approach to mastering a craft.

A First Encounter with Sakudō: Navigating the Classroom

Just yesterday, I embarked on a new adventure by attending an art-making class for the very first time. The anticipation was palpable as I stepped into the classroom, where I was warmly greeted by Ema-sensei, our instructor. Ema-sensei was strict, but not in the way one might initially perceive. Her strictness stemmed from a profound dedication to her craft, a passion that she seamlessly wove into the fabric of her teaching.

As I entered the classroom, a wave of nervousness washed over me, but it quickly dissipated under Ema-sensei’s cheerful disposition. She was engaging and approachable, often striking up conversations that extended beyond the confines of the art form. This made the learning experience not only enlightening but also deeply enriching. The classroom buzzed with the energy of eager students, and as I joined them, I felt an immediate sense of camaraderie.

The Art of Sakudō: A Symphony of Movement and Knowledge

Sakudō, I soon discovered, is not merely a series of physical movements; it is a discipline that requires a deep understanding of Japanese culture, its history, and the philosophy that underpins its aesthetics. Ema-sensei guided us through the intricacies of how to walk, how to make tea, and the proper use of various tools. Yet, it was not solely about the physical actions; it was about the knowledge and the language that accompanied each movement.

The details were overwhelming—Japanese sweets, the significance of certain words, and the cultural meaning behind every gesture. At that moment, I realized that mastering Sakudō was akin to unraveling a complex tapestry, where each thread represented a piece of knowledge that needed to be carefully understood and woven together. The challenge lay not just in learning these details but in retaining and applying them in a way that truly honored the tradition.

As I delved deeper into the art of Sakudō, I found myself captivated by the intricate connections between movement and meaning. Each gesture, no matter how subtle, carried a deeper significance rooted in Japanese philosophy and aesthetics. The way one holds a tea cup, the angle at which one’s body is positioned, and even the rhythm of one’s steps—all of these elements contribute to the overall harmony and beauty of the art form.

Ema-sensei’s teachings went beyond the physical realm, touching upon the spiritual and emotional aspects of Sakudō. She emphasized the importance of finding one’s inner calm and focus, allowing the movements to flow naturally from a place of tranquility. This concept of mindfulness, so deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, resonated with me on a profound level.

Embracing the Concept of Shihari: A Path to Mastery

During my session with Ema-sensei, one concept stood out prominently—Shihari. This Japanese term, composed of three characters, encapsulates the essence of learning and mastery in Japanese culture. Shihari can be broken down into three stages: copy, break, and leave.

Copy: The Foundation

The first stage, copy, involves faithfully reproducing the techniques and knowledge imparted by the teacher. This period is marked by intense observation and replication, where the student’s focus is on absorbing foundational skills and understanding the core principles of the art form. This stage is crucial, as it builds the base upon which future innovations can be constructed.

As I immersed myself in the copying stage, I found myself developing a deep respect for the tradition and those who came before me. I understood that by faithfully reproducing the movements and knowledge, I was honoring the lineage of Sakudō and the countless individuals who had dedicated their lives to preserving and refining the art form.

Break: The Evolution

Once the foundation is solid, the next step is break. This does not mean discarding what has been learned; rather, it involves questioning, refining, and integrating new ideas. It’s about finding one’s own voice within the art form. This could involve subtle modifications to existing techniques or the incorporation of fresh perspectives. The goal is to create something original—a reflection of the individual’s unique interpretation and understanding of the art.

As I progressed through the breaking stage, I encountered moments of both struggle and exhilaration. It was challenging to strike a balance between honoring the tradition and allowing my own creativity to flourish. However, with Ema-sensei’s guidance and the support of my fellow students, I began to find my footing. I experimented with different variations of the movements, played with the rhythm and timing, and allowed my own personality to shine through.

Leave: The Legacy

The final stage, leave, is about creating something entirely original that stands apart from the teachings of the master. It’s about leaving your mark on the art form and contributing to its evolution and legacy. This stage requires a deep understanding of the art, mastery of the techniques, and the courage to innovate and express oneself authentically.

As I contemplated the leaving stage, I felt both excitement and trepidation. The prospect of creating something entirely new, something that could potentially influence the future of Sakudō, was both thrilling and daunting. I knew that I had a long way to go before reaching this level of mastery, but the journey itself was filled with endless possibilities for growth and self-expression.

Applying Shihari to Life: A Universal Philosophy

The concept of Shihari is not confined to the realm of art or craftsmanship; it is a philosophy that can be applied to various aspects of life. Whether it’s cooking, learning a new language, or personal development, the stages of copy, break, and leave offer a structured approach to growth and mastery.

Copy: Learn the Basics

In any new endeavor, the initial phase is about learning the basics. Whether it’s following a recipe in cooking or grasping the grammar of a new language, establishing a solid foundation is crucial. This stage is where one absorbs the fundamental rules and principles that will guide future explorations.

As I reflected on the copying stage in my own life, I realized that it was a necessary step in any learning process. It’s about humbling oneself, acknowledging that there is much to learn, and being open to guidance from those who have walked the path before us. By faithfully reproducing the basics, we lay the groundwork for future growth and innovation.

Break: Innovate and Adapt

Once the basics are mastered, the next step is to innovate and adapt. This could mean experimenting with different flavors in cooking, personalizing language use to better suit one’s communication style, or finding unique ways to apply knowledge in real-life situations. It’s about taking what has been learned and making it one’s own.

The breaking stage in life is where we begin to find our unique voice and expression. It’s about questioning the status quo, challenging assumptions, and daring to be different. It’s a stage of exploration, experimentation, and self-discovery. By breaking free from the confines of the basics, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and avenues for growth.

Leave: Create Your Legacy

The ultimate goal is to leave a mark—to create something that is uniquely one’s own. This could be a signature dish, a distinctive way of speaking a language, or a personal philosophy that guides one’s actions and decisions. It’s about contributing to the world in a way that reflects one’s unique perspective and experiences.

The leaving stage in life is about making a lasting impact, leaving the world a little bit better than we found it. It’s about using our skills, knowledge, and creativity to make a difference, whether it’s through our work, our relationships, or our contributions to society. By creating something original and authentic, we leave a legacy that will continue to inspire and influence others long after we’re gone.

Conclusion: A Journey of Self-Discovery

My experience with Sakudō has been a journey of self-discovery, teaching me not just about the art form but also about the essence of learning and mastery. The concept of Shihari has become more than just a philosophy; it is a guiding light that illuminates the path to personal growth and creative expression.

As I prepare to attend my next class, I am filled with a renewed sense of excitement and purpose. I look forward to continuing this journey—learning, evolving, and perhaps one day, leaving my own mark on the world of Sakudō and beyond.

Throughout this experience, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of Japanese culture. I have learned that true mastery is not about perfection but about embracing the journey, celebrating the process, and finding joy in the act of creation. Sakudō has taught me to slow down, to be present in the moment, and to approach life with a sense of mindfulness and reverence.

As I continue to explore the rich tapestry of Japanese culture, I know that I have only scratched the surface. There are countless other art forms, traditions, and philosophies waiting to be discovered and experienced. But for now, I am content to immerse myself in the world of Sakudō, knowing that the lessons I learn here will continue to shape and enrich my life in countless ways.

Thank you for joining me on this exploration. Until next time, may your journeys be filled with discovery, growth, and the joy of learning.

Stay tuned for updates on my experiences and insights as I continue to explore the rich tapestry of Japanese culture and its many facets. Your support and engagement mean the world to me, and I look forward to sharing more of my journey with you.