August 5th Event Report

Mindfulness Inspired by Japanese Culture
～Session 1: Shakyō (Sutra Copying)～

On the day of the event, we successfully completed the session while taking measures to prevent infections, such as ensuring proper ventilation.
Once again, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the participants who attended and to everyone involved for their cooperation and support.

Topics Covered

・Breathing techniques and the benefits of sutra copying, taught by Mr. William Reed

・Mindfulness as a method for stress relief

・The connection between mindfulness and Zen

“The Number of Breaths in a Lifetime Is Limited”

It is said that the number of breaths a person takes in their lifetime is approximately 500 million.
In India, there is a belief:
“Those who take fewer, longer breaths each day tend to live longer, whereas those who take shorter, rapid breaths tend to have shorter lives.”

Moreover, in Japanese, the term for longevity, “nagai-iki” (長生き), also implies “long breath” (長息き).

“Short Breaths Reflect a Troubled Mind”

When people are under stress, they unconsciously take shorter (shallower) breaths.
Conversely, by intentionally lengthening (deepening) their breaths, they can achieve a calmer and more composed state of mind.
During the event, participants measured their resting respiratory rate for one minute.
Most attendees fell within the average adult range of 12–18 breaths per minute, with no one exhibiting exceptionally short or long breathing patterns.

“An Astonishing One Breath Per Minute”

Breathing is one of the essential actions for living.
In martial arts and calligraphy, breathing is also considered highly important.
Mr. Reed, who trains regularly in disciplines such as Aikido, astonished everyone with his extraordinary ability to take just one breath per minute.
While this feat is beyond most of us, we practiced breathing techniques with the goal of achieving longer (deeper) breaths than usual.

“A Breathing Technique Using Mudras (Hand Gestures)”

When participants measured their breathing using this method, many found their respiratory rate decreased compared to when they weren’t using the technique.

“Breathe Like a Sunrise”

Inhale through your nose, pause for about three seconds to savor the feeling, and then begin to exhale. After exhaling, pause again for about three seconds before starting your next inhale.
This method allows for even longer (deeper) breaths.
The “pause for about three seconds” after each movement does not mean holding your breath.
Rather, it is about transitioning naturally and smoothly, much like the quiet, gradual movement of the sunrise.

“Focus on Your Breathing”

Sutra copying is said to help relax the body and mind by achieving a meditative state.
It also promotes the release of beta-endorphins, a substance in the brain that encourages positive thinking.

By focusing on your breathing while performing sutra copying, you can guide your mind and body to a better state.
Additionally, incorporating this breathing awareness into everyday life and various activities may lead to improved performance.

Sutra Copied: “Kegonkyō Ichijō Hokkai Zu”

For this session, we copied the Kegonkyō Ichijō Hokkai Zu, a diagram of seven-line, 30-character teachings (totaling 210 characters) from the Kegon school’s founder, Gishō.
The characters are arranged in a square format, forming a maze-like design to be read from the center outward. It is a fascinating and unique composition.

Some participants displayed incredible focus, completing all 210 characters in a short time.

The event benefited from the spacious and open atmosphere of CrossBe, where participants could comfortably maintain appropriate distancing.


Next Session: “The Way of Tea”

The next session in our series on mindfulness inspired by Japanese culture will focus on chanoyu (the tea ceremony).
Details about the event will be shared on the CrossBe website, LLC WANOMORI’s homepage, and social media such as Facebook.

We look forward to seeing you there!