LESSONS FROM MOUNTAINS
Welcome to Lessons From Mountains, reflections and insights related to the life and mindset of the Yamabushi, and mindful ways of living and self development.
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RECENT LESSONS FROM MOUNTAINS
What The Trees Teach
Strength lies not in what we hold onto but what we are willing to release.
ZANSHIN 残心 - The Lingering Mind
Describing your emotions after a yamabushi training is never easy.
What is the purpose of Yamabushi training?
‘The purpose of yamabushi training is yamabushi training.’
- Master Hoshino.
How do you know when you’ve become a Yamabushi?
It’s not the white clothes.
It’s not the yamabushi name.
It’s not even the Uketamo.
The Essence of Yamabushi Is Prayer
July 1st marks the opening of Mt. Gassan, the highest and most sacred of the Dewa Sanzan. For centuries, Yamabushi and pilgrims have awaited this moment, not just to walk the mountain, but to reconnect with something deeper than ourselves.
The Spring Ritual Bringing Community Together
Each spring, in a ritual called Haruyama Daisan (春山代参, lit. Spring Mountain Pilgrimage), a group of about 20 people return the Kami to its rightful home atop Mt. Gassan.
KEEPING THE SACRED PATH SACRED
Since the early 17th century, the people of Toge village at the base of Haguro-san have come together every spring for the Haraigawa Bushin (払川普請), a massive communal clean-up.
“Don’t be fooled—‘basic’ is demanding.”
Testimonial from N.M. (2024 Basic Yamabushi training participation)
Lessons From Mountains is written by members of the Yamabushido team, based on direct experience through training and life in the mountains of Yamagata, Japan.
For those who feel called to experience this path directly, you can explore our Yamabushi training programs.
LESSONS FROM MOUNTAINS
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