Last weekend, we held a Shinkiko Retreat seminar at the KIPLACE in Ikebukuro, Tokyo. As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Shinkiko, I am delighted that—following last month’s event in Sapporo—we were able to host a training seminar at the KIPLACE for the first time. Although the Ikebukuro KIPLACE opened only about two years ago, our connection to this location traces back to the era of my predecessor. I also find deep significance in the fact that we were able to hold this gathering to receive Ki energy during Obon, a time when we turn our thoughts toward our ancestors. Stepping back from the busyness of daily life and interpersonal relationships to spend time quietly receiving Ki offers us an invaluable opportunity to look inward and connect with ourselves.
We sometimes encounter unexpected troubles or unforeseen events. There are times when nothing seems to go right, and our anxiety causes us to spin our wheels in vain. In such moments, we are prone to looking for causes outside ourselves—thinking, “Why is this happening to me?” or “It’s that person’s fault.” This is because, when caught in the midst of trouble, we easily align with negative Ki (energy), causing our perspective to narrow. Yet, from the perspective of Ki, events that appear negative at first glance often carry vital messages intended to refine our hearts and elevate our souls.
For some time now, I have felt the importance of “pausing” in our daily lives. Japan has long cherished a culture of stopping to reflect on oneself—whether by clasping one’s hands in prayer at the end of the day or centering one’s mind at the turning points of the seasons. However, modern society demands efficiency and speed, often causing us to keep rushing forward without a moment’s rest. Although this Retreat seminar is something I conduct regularly, engaging with it in a different setting and from a fresh perspective allowed me to experience that sense of pausing. If we forget to stop, not only does fatigue accumulate, but we also become trapped in the same patterns of thought, making it difficult to generate new ideas; we become more susceptible to the influence of negative energy.
These Retreat seminars offer the perfect opportunity to simply pause for a moment. By quieting the restless activity of your conscious mind in an environment filled with positive energy, the clouds obscuring your heart clear away, allowing deep insights to well up naturally. Negative energy is dispelled, while positive energy supports you, making it easier for inspired ideas to emerge.
We are expanding our venues, with sessions scheduled for Miyazaki next month and Kyoto thereafter. I encourage you to find a moment in your daily life to simply pause. Even just applying the High Genki device while letting your mind drift is enough. By taking that moment to pause and center your heart, your journey forward will become more powerful and filled with light.