8 Japanese Concepts That Can Transform The Way You Work
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Dear Friend,
I’ve been thinking a lot about the wisdom from Japan this week.
As I reflect back on my trip to Japan last year, there are several concepts that left a lasting impact.
One such concept is Ichigo Ichie, which I experienced at a beautiful tea ceremony in Kyoto.
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Legend has it that tea master, Sen No Rikyu, back in the 16th century would instruct all his apprentices to observe a particular mindset while serving tea to their guests.
He would tell them to give their guests a level of attention and respect as if the meeting with them was a singular meeting taking place only once in a lifetime.
In other words, to practice ICHIGO ICHIE, which loosely translates as “one time, one meeting.”
Because even if you were to meet your guests again,
It would be a different moment.
You would be different.
The people you meet would be different.
And the interaction between the two of you would be different.
And so this moment right now, right here, will never be repeated.
While the expression Ichigo Ichie became associated with tea ceremonies, it is also strongly linked with Zen Buddhism and the idea of impermanence or transience.
Which reminds us that every moment, every experience, every interaction is fleeting.
And so each moment deserves our appreciation and mindful attention.
Each moment with your loved ones…
Each interaction with your colleagues….
A shared meal with friends…
A walk in nature…
ICHIGO ICHIE is really an invitation to embrace each moment as if it really were once in a lifetime.
My 9-year old son and I loved the expression so much that to this day, whenever we want to savor any moment, we look at each other and say out loud, “Ichigo Ichie!”
Tell me, have you had an Ichigo Ichie moment recently?
P.S. I recently shared a small carousel about this and 7 other Japanese concepts that I love, and that can help you live and lead consciously. That post went viral, and was deeply appreciated by many. If you have not seen it yet, and would like to get a high-quality copy of the PDF, you can simply click below. 
As we head towards the weekend, I wish you many Ichigo Ichie moments!
Warmly,
Bhavna Toor
Chief Mindfulness Officer
Shenomics
