What a beautiful journey we shared! Our recent Japanese Calligraphy Workshop was a truly inspiring experience, filled with creativity, connection, breathwork and the discovery of Ikigai. We wanted to take a moment to reflect on the wonderful moments we shared and thank everyone who participated.

During our time together we delved into the elegant art of Shodo, exploring the history of Japanese writing and mastering the delicate strokes of the brush. But more than just learning a new skill, we embarked on a journey of self-discovery, exploring the profound concept of Ikigai – our reason for being.

In the span of two sessions, participants not only mastered basic brushstrokes and learned to write their names and powerful words like “Courage,” “Strength,” and “Care” in Japanese script, but also embarked on a fascinating journey into the rich history and cultural significance of the Chinese writing system, the very foundation of Japanese calligraphy. From the traditions of the Emperor’s court and the scholars creating literary masterpieces in poetry and painting, to the creative artists making bold and dynamic statements in calligraphic form, all are based on the discipline of first learning how to write with a brush.

By learning to express themselves in a language beyond the familiar Western alphabet, participants experienced a heightened awareness of their own identity and the profound potential for creative expression to foster both personal and community wellbeing. This process, rooted in mindful focus and refined through practice, allowed everyone to create beautiful, frame-ready artworks that served as tangible reminders of their journey, their newfound skills, and the deep cultural heritage they explored. Furthermore, the act of creating these works fostered a shared sense of accomplishment and connection, highlighting the power of art to bridge cultural divides and inspire personal growth.

The workshop was a space for mindful creation, where the gentle flow of ink on paper and breathwork became a meditative practice. We witnessed the power of art to cultivate calm and clarity, as participants created beautiful keepsakes that reflected their unique interpretations of Ikigai. We were truly impressed by the beautiful calligraphy pieces created during the workshop. Thank you to everyone who shared photos of their work!

Beyond the Brushstrokes: Introspection

The discussions that arose during and after the workshop were particularly insightful. We explored how Ikigai can be a powerful tool for wellbeing, helping us navigate the complexities of modern life and find a deeper sense of purpose.

We even touched upon the “Blue Zones,” regions where people live exceptionally long and healthy lives, highlighting the importance of community and purpose in overall wellbeing. These areas offer valuable insights into the lifestyle factors that contribute to longevity and wellbeing, including strong community connections and a sense of purpose.

It was especially inspiring to see how the concept of Ikigai resonated with participants of all ages. We discussed its potential to guide younger generations, offering a more balanced and fulfilling perspective on career and life goals, especially in contrast to the often materialistic messages found on social media.

Looking Ahead:

The success of this workshop has inspired us to explore further opportunities to integrate art, mindfulness, and the concept of Ikigai into our future events. We believe that these practices can offer valuable tools for personal growth and community connection.

A Heartfelt Thank You:

We wish to extend our gratitude to our expert instructors, Suzanne Perrin and Eiko Eisai, for sharing their knowledge and passion with us. We also want to thank all the participants for their enthusiasm and creativity and to the Swiss Church for hosting us.

Stay Connected with the Swiss Benevolent Society:

Throughout the year, the Swiss Benevolent Society aims to offer a variety of enriching events, including workshops similar to this calligraphy course and our regular Swiss Coffee Mornings. We are always looking for ways to engage our community and provide opportunities for learning, connection, and wellbeing.

We would love to hear your feedback and suggestions! Please share your thoughts in the comments section below or send us an email to info@swissbenevolent.org.uk: What types of events would you be most interested in attending? Your input will help us shape our future programming.

We look forward to seeing you at future events!

Warmly,

The Swiss Benevolent Society