For my first official blog I wanted to write about something relevant. Right now the main topic that truly hits home is the catastrophic events in Japan. This topic hits home not only because Japan was once my home but because my wife is Japanese. All her family is there. I remain hopeful that the continuing efforts going on over there will be successful. The people of Japan are truly an inspiration.
I went to live there when I was in my 20’s, one year after completing a Master’s in Psychology. I had an affinity towards Japanese culture since I was a kid. At a young age I was fascinated by the Bushido code of the Samurai and the mystical art of ninjitsu. Then later on I became interested in Zen and the practice of meditation. So my impetus in going there to live was based on my desire to cultivate spiritual growth.
My decision to live in Japan was one of the best and most rewarding decisions I’ve made in my life.
I met so many interesting people there. In my experience, Japanese people are the warmest, kindest, most gracious and generous people I have ever met. When I was just a clueless gaijin (foreigner) so many people would go out of their way to help me.
It was in Japan that I had my first experience with acupuncture. My wife (who was my girlfriend at the time) found an acupuncturist in the town where I lived. I went there to seek relief from chronic back pain. I had always heard of the benefits of acupuncture and decided to give it a try. Not only did I get relief from my pain but I also felt an overall sense of calm and relaxation after each treatment.
My acupuncturist, Incho sensei, as he was commonly referred to, used many different modalities including, acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping and electric stimulation. For those of you familiar with moxibustion you know the smell. Certain smells can evoke powerful memory recall or feelings of nostalgia. The herbs in moxa have this power. Now, whenever I use moxibustion on my patients it brings back many joyous memories of my experiences in Japan.
It saddens me to think of the suffering going on there right now. But it is also inspiring to see a culture come together in this time of crisis and help each other to overcome great odds.
It is my hope to be able to visit there again in the near future.
Please continue to show your support by sending healing energy to the wonderful people of Japan. If you have the financial means, consider donating to the American Red Cross or any other charitable organization providing relief efforts for Japan.
