An interview feature, delving into my insights, has graced the pages of TSUNAGO Vol.4, a cherished local publication. Within its pages, I shared reflections on the profound journey of 'connecting with the self'. For this opportunity, my deepest gratitude. A gentle click upon the image below will reveal a larger vista.
Presented below is the full textual essence of the featured article. I invite you to explore its depths.
The Maverick Who Unfolds 'Kanjizai' Through the Axis of Somatic Awareness
Representative Director, Authentic Self LLC
Bodyworker, Performer, Director
Graphic Designer, Copywriter, Promoter
Editor-in-Chief, Sakyo Maverick Almanac
Yasuhiro Terashima
Born in Wakayama in 1980, Yasuhiro Terashima is an alumnus of Kansai University's Faculty of Engineering. His career trajectory began in the advertising industry, where he honed his skills as a graphic designer, copywriter, and director. In 2011, a profound turning point arrived with his father's passing, inspiring him to embark on a new path as an independent bodyworker. He then pioneered "Unfolding Bodywork," a philosophy that embraces the mind and body as a holistic expression of "life itself," gently releasing stagnation and contraction to foster expansive well-being. Through engaging with the intricate landscapes of thousands of individuals, both within Japan and across the globe, he came to understand the profound significance of authentic self-expression. With physicality and art as his core themes, he crafts performances that weave drawing with dance, and curates spaces where individuals can effortlessly journey into self-discovery and expression through the mediums of painting, dance, and music.
Have you ever truly paused to listen to the subtle whispers of your own body? Yasuhiro Terashima, with his logical acumen forged in engineering and the acute perception honed in the advertising world, having dedicated over 15 years to the art of bodywork, now eloquently advocates for embracing the profound significance of "one's own innate comfort," transcending the mere calculus of economic logic. From this multifaceted individual—a performer who dances as he draws, among his many roles—we sought insights on cultivating a life of effortless grace.
——Amidst your diverse endeavors and passionate pursuits, what resonates as the single most vital essence for you now?
Without a doubt, it is the profound act of turning our awareness inward, towards our body. This journey of self-inquiry is paramount. It can begin with the simplest gestures, such as gently inquiring, "How does my body feel today?" Indeed, many of us remain largely unaware of the precise location and function of our own vital "organs" within. Where does the liver reside, and what intricate dance does the kidney perform? This conscious attentiveness extends to sensing into these very organs, acknowledging their presence and their unseen work.
——Why is it so vital to cultivate this conscious connection with our bodies?
We arrive upon this earthly plane, embodied, yet as we mature, we are often conditioned to direct our awareness predominantly outwards. Consequently, our focus becomes almost exclusively external. We find ourselves perpetually reacting to outward stimuli, shaping our actions in response to external events. Yet, throughout this singular journey of life, it is solely through the vessel of our body that we truly experience being. It is the body that allows us the capacities to speak, to behold, to nourish ourselves. The shared laughter, the profound emotions, the joyful connections we forge with others—all are made possible by our physical presence. We simply cannot escape the intrinsic limitations, nor the boundless possibilities, inherent within this sacred form.
——Could you elaborate on what you mean by the body's inherent limitations?
For instance, while we might yearn to alter our height or change our facial features, such transformations lie beyond our direct command. Nor can we consciously command the rhythm of our heart or the intricate workings of our other vital organs. As we navigate and shape our reality, the body undeniably exerts a profound influence. Yet, how often do we truly tune into the precise location and delicate dance of our internal organs? It feels as though we often neglect the very foundations of "what brings us comfort"—the quality and timing of our nourishment, the sanctity of our sleep. We often fail to dedicate sacred time to these essential self-cares. I believe that the very act of sensing—asking "Does this feel comfortable?" or "How am I feeling in this moment?"—is the profound gateway to reconnecting with the self. Our body is an exquisitely delicate sensor, yet we often fail to truly utilize its wisdom. Thus, I earnestly encourage each of you to carve out moments to truly listen to the voice of your body. When an experience feels less than harmonious, don't you notice a subtle tension held somewhere within your form? Excessive attentiveness to others can lead to a tightening of the diaphragm, resulting in shallow, restricted breaths. Indeed, the idiom "my neck cannot turn due to lack of money" finds its echo in physical reality: financial strain often manifests as tangible neck discomfort. When faced with real-world challenges, these often find their resonance within the body. Therefore, I urge you to discern, in each unfolding moment, what truly feels comfortable and what does not. That which brings discomfort can simply be released. Should certain actions be unavoidable, consider reframing your way of being to cultivate a sense of ease within them. A simple shift in perspective can also reveal the profound strength found in leaning upon others.
We are often tethered by the fixed notion that "there is but one singular answer." At this juncture, I wish to illuminate the profound concept of "Kanjizai." In the opening lines of the Prajnaparamita Sutra, "Kanjizai Bodhisattva" embodies one who can freely and fluidly shift their perspectives. The sutra recounts how the Bodhisattva, through deep contemplative practice, beheld the true nature of the world, and upon perfecting the wisdom unconstrained by any singular viewpoint, transcended all forms of suffering. Thus, Kanjizai signifies "the liberation attained by the fluid capacity to transform one's perspective." The answer may not be singular; indeed, a tapestry of viewpoints is not only permissible but enriching. I perceive that opportunities to experientially embrace this liberating truth are often scarce. To foster this, in my painting exhibitions, I have ingeniously devised a system allowing the artworks to be rotated while gracefully suspended upon the wall. My aspiration is to offer, through art, an immersive "Kanjizai" experience where the viewer themselves can rotate the pieces, thereby transforming their perception and felt sense of the work. Furthermore, I cultivate various spaces for authentic expression, such as the "Rakugaki Lab" where adults can unleash what organically wells up from within, the "Drum de Dance Club" where individuals dance freely to the rhythmic pulse of drums, and "Minna no Live" for sharing original musical creations.
Expression cannot flourish without an environment where it is received without judgment, and, as per Buddhist principles, without the concept of "". If one creates without an audience, the "circulation" of energy and meaning remains incomplete. It is only when there is a receptive audience that this vital circulation truly begins. When someone sees, hears, and feels something, and their impressions are received in turn, a beautiful loop is formed. This is the essence of the circulating spaces I endeavor to design. Such an environment empowers authentic self-expression, allowing each to live "true to their authentic self." The journey of self-discovery is not meaningful in isolation; true societal value emerges when every individual is empowered to live authentically. This is the very aspiration of Authentic Self LLC. It is paramount that society as a whole evolves into an environment where authentic living is not merely tolerated, but celebrated by all. To this end, I proactively engage in self-expression, continuously exploring and challenging my own authentic being.
——How do you define the essence of 'connecting with oneself'?
It is the profound capacity to discern the subtle nuances between ease and dis-ease. From this discernment, the journey of self-discovery unfurls, and a heightened consciousness awakens. Most likely, many of you have yet to truly encounter your deepest, most authentic self. We are often swept away by the currents of economic logic, quickly pondering, "Can this endeavor yield financial gain?" Yet, intimately knowing oneself is among life's most invaluable pursuits. When you cultivate the ability to observe yourself from a broader perspective, your viewpoint expands, allowing for multifaceted perception. This, too, is an expression of "Kanjizai."
I believe we are born not merely to accumulate "wealth," but to gather "richness of experience." When we orient our awareness towards innate comfort, a vibrant curiosity blossoms, effortlessly transcending the constraints of economic logic. To move in alignment with this genuine curiosity is to live ever more authentically, more truly as oneself. For those yearning to transcend the confines of purely economic reasoning, I suggest a profound and earnest turning of awareness towards their innermost mind and body.
It is remarkably simple to uplift and assist others, often without needing to perform grand gestures. For instance, I teach Japanese to individuals in the United States, yet I hold no formal qualification as a Japanese language instructor. By recognizing the self-imposed confinement of believing "one cannot teach without certification," we awaken to the unique treasures we already possess within.
Further still, an encounter at a bus stop with a member of the local community blossomed into an invitation to join the "Hamoha Dance and Iron Fan Preservation Society," guardians of a dance tradition passed down through generations. This connection subsequently led to enriching sessions within local elementary schools. Another thread of connection, born from a local resident learning of my performance before hundreds for a major advertising agency, unfurled into an opportunity to facilitate art and craft classes, empowering children to express themselves without inhibition. Initiating any endeavor invariably sets in motion a beautiful unfolding.
While many may harbor apprehension about embarking on new ventures, I propose that we simply begin, and let understanding follow the experience. There is no need to anticipate failure before even commencing; should it occur, no one will mock your earnest endeavor. Instead, we should embrace continuous exploration and courageous pursuit. Simply act upon those impulses that spark a genuine "this feels interesting!" within. Persist in these genuine impulses. The outcome, then, should naturally be a creation that fosters a circulation of joy. It is my conviction that as each individual courageously explores their authentic path, we collectively weave a society where all can thrive "true to their authentic selves," fostering a tapestry of shared delight. Life, truly, is for the daring who engage. So, I ask you: what exquisite unfolding shall we invite next?