I've been hearing many references to Kintsugi lately. It's the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery by sealing the fractured parts with lacquer dusted (or mixed) with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. Thus, the finished work transforms into something even more beautiful than before. I love this analogy when we relate it to ourselves and our life journey. We have parts of us that may be "broken", yet we can choose to heal, rise above, and blossom into a greater version of ourselves. Beauty which is characterized by its asymmetry, roughness, simplicity, and humbleness— and not despite it— is called "wabi sabi." By embracing beauty in this way, we accept what is present without staying stuck in the past.
Perhaps it has been my ancestors whispering this and other ancient zen wisdom to me as a way to gently guide me back to my Japanese roots. In fact, I have decided to relocate to Kyoto in July 2020! Yes, Hanuman Yoga Retreat will soon be based in Japan. I, myself am still a bit shocked by my own news, as I did not have any intention of leaving Chiang Mai, my home for the past three years. However, the idea to move to Kyoto came to me naturally, crystal clear, and without any doubt in my mind. How grateful I am to the universe for showing me the way (because, honestly, it doesn't happen that often!). I look forward to offering my classes, workshops, and retreats in the growing international community of Kyoto. The yoga and wellness scene is steadily increasing, making it an exciting time to be part of it!
Be well,
Tammy
