The Principles

  • The deep rooted sense of humility and appreciation.

    Embody the recognition of the interconnectedness between people. It encourages a mindset of gratefulness for every experience, whether big or small, fostering a sense of community and mutual respect.

    What if we saw every interaction as a gift? Arigato teaches us that gratitude is not just about saying "thank you," but recognising the deep connections we share with others.

    What if we embraced this interconnectedness, appreciating both small and significant experiences as part of a larger whole?

  • The principle to find beauty in the imperfect and the transient.

    It celebrates the flaws and the natural aging of objects, reminding us that life’s impermanence and imperfections make it all the more beautiful.

    What if we stopped striving for perfection and instead found beauty in flaws?

    Wabisabi invites us to embrace the natural cycle of growth, decay, and aging.

    What if we celebrated the imperfections in life, realising that these are what make things truly unique and beautiful?

  • The practice of maintaining an open, eager attitude, free of preconceptions, even when studying at an advanced level.

    It values curiosity and humility, encouraging lifelong learning and the continuous pursuit of knowledge.

    What if we approached every situation with the wonder of a beginner?

    Shoshin encourages us to stay curious and open, no matter how much we already know.

    What if we dropped our preconceptions and allowed ourselves to learn, grow, and evolve continually?

  • The understated beauty that doesn’t overwhelm but instead reveals itself gradually.

    It values simplicity, subtlety, and a restrained elegance, often found in natural materials and quiet aesthetics.

    What if we appreciated the quiet, subtle beauty around us?

    Shibui reminds us that true elegance often lies in simplicity and restraint.

    What if we slowed down, took in the details, and found joy in the things that reveal their beauty gradually, rather than demanding immediate attention?

  • Repair broken pottery with gold, emphasising the cracks rather than hiding them.

    It symbolises resilience and the idea that brokenness can lead to greater beauty, highlighting the value of healing and renewal.

    What if we viewed our scars and brokenness as marks of beauty and resilience?

    Kintsugi teaches us that there is value in our imperfections, and that healing can create something even more beautiful.

    What if we honoured our struggles as integral parts of our journey, rather than hiding them?

  • The philosophy of continuous improvement, both in personal and professional life.

    It advocates for small, consistent changes that compound over time, leading to significant growth and development.

    What if I made small, consistent changes every day?

    Kaizen shows us that personal and professional growth doesn’t have to come in big leaps, but through steady, gradual improvements.

    What if we focused on incremental adjustments that, over time, lead to monumental progress?

  • The profound, mysterious sense of the beauty of the universe that triggers deep emotional responses. It’s an appreciation for the subtle and the sublime, evoking feelings of awe and wonder.

    What if I opened ourselves to the deep, mysterious beauty of life?

    Yugen evokes a sense of awe for the unseen, the subtle, and the profound.

    What if we allowed ourselves to be moved by the quiet magnificence of the universe, appreciating its vastness and mystery?

  • The freedom from comparing oneself to others, emphasising that each individual blossoms in their own time.

    It encourages personal growth based on one’s unique path and timing, fostering self-acceptance.

    What if I stopped comparing ourselves to others and embraced our own journey?

    Oubaitori reminds us that everyone blossoms in their own time.

    What if we nurtured our unique paths, knowing that our growth, like nature, unfolds at its own perfect pace?

  • The unification of heart, mind, and spirit. It’s the essence of one’s being, the seat of emotions, thoughts, and intentions.

    It guides our actions and reflects the depth of our character.

    What if I lived in harmony with our whole being—heart, mind, body, and spirit?

    Kokoro calls us to align our thoughts, emotions, and actions with the essence of who we are.

    What if we tapped into this balance, using it as a guide to navigate the world with integrity and purpose?

  • The concept of finding purpose in life, the reason you wake up each morning.

    It is a balance between what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for, providing a sense of fulfilment.

    What if we found our true reason for being?

    Ikigai encourages us to live with purpose by discovering the intersection of what we love, what we’re good at, and what the world needs.

    What if we dedicated our lives to pursuing our passions and fulfilling our potential in a way that serves others?

  • The spirit of selfless hospitality, where one anticipates the needs of guests and provides service with sincerity and care, reflecting deep respect and consideration for others.

    What if we anticipated the needs of others with genuine care?

    Omotenashi is the art of selfless hospitality, where service is not just an obligation but an expression of respect and empathy.

    What if we approached every interaction with a heart of service, seeking to make others feel seen and valued?

  • The living in the moment, detached from the burdens of life.

    It’s about embracing the present, enjoying fleeting pleasures, and appreciating the transient beauty of life.

    What if we lived fully in the present moment, detached from life’s stresses?

    Ukiyo teaches us to embrace the fleeting joys of life, savoring the now without worrying about the past or future.

    What if we allowed ourselves to float in the moment, finding freedom in the beauty of the present?

  • The practice of being considerate and empathetic, understanding and respecting the feelings of others.

    It is taking actions that reflect compassion and sensitivity toward others’ needs.

    What if we made a conscious effort to understand the feelings of others?

    Omoiyari is the practice of mindful compassion, where empathy and kindness shape our interactions.

    What if we took the time to truly listen and act with consideration, creating a world of deeper connections?

  • The principle that each moment is unique and will never occur again in the same way.

    It encourages us to cherish every encounter and experience, appreciating its uniqueness and transience.

    What if we treated every moment and encounter as if it were the last?

    Ichigo Ichie reminds us of the uniqueness and fleeting nature of life’s experiences.

    What if we cherished every moment, recognising its irreplaceable value and embracing the magic of each encounter?

  • An exclamation of awe and admiration, used to express what is incredibly impressive or remarkable.

    It reflects an appreciation for excellence and extraordinary experiences.

    What if we allowed ourselves to be amazed by the extraordinary around us?

    Sugoi expresses wonder and admiration for the remarkable things we encounter.

    What if we celebrated the awe-inspiring moments in life, appreciating the brilliance that exists all around us?