A Mother's Love

Drawing on the wisdom of Zen, this book introduces us to the Japanese practice of Naikan (pronounced nye-kan), a program of self-healing through profound mindfulness. This book is a basic guide for complete beginners who wish to take the first steps on this journey.

The therapeutic system of Naikan encourages us to delve into our past to find a deeper understanding of ourselves and new hope for the future. Through Naikan, we are asked to reflect upon our mothers who gave us life and are invited to discover their love perhaps for the first time. Our journey begins with three simple questions. Searching for answers takes us on a quest which will rejuvenate our perception and encourage us to find fulfillment.

The therapeutic results of undertaking the program are not only a release from emotional pain and anxiety but also an understanding of our relationships with others and the essence of human existence. ShinkÅ Åyama demonstrates how profoundly transformational this healing practice is.

ShinkÅ Åyama grew up in the south of Japan as the eldest son of a local brewer. As a graduate of economics, he began a promising corporate career. He then unexpectedly lost his mother to an illness before discovering Naikan from its founder, Ishin Yoshimoto. Subsequently, Åyama gave up his career to become a monk. Now, as one of the most senior teachers of Zen in Japan, Åyama runs a Naikan retreat center and has spent over 31 years helping individuals find lasting solutions to their personal problems.

So, what exactly is Naikan? It is a therapy that can change our perspective on life.

The Naikan process is based upon three questions:

(1) What have I received from …?

(2) What have I given to …in return?

(3) What troubles have I caused …?

You can apply these questions to anyone in your life. However, in this book, we will focus upon these questions in relation to our mothers. The questions may sound simple, but if you answer them thoroughly, they ignite empowering insights that might not otherwise arise.