A healing space away from everyday life

I joined because I was fascinated by Sensei's work, sensibility, and way of life. I go to practice twice a month on my way home from work.

The classroom is a healing space where Sensei and her students are always smiling, and where I can get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and compose my spirit while learning calligraphy. I feel that Sensei's guidance leads us to beautiful writing by respecting the individuality of her students, reading our hearts from the characters we write, and nurturing our sensibilities. In addition, because she proceeds according to each person's pace, I was able to continue comfortably and grow to become a master.

I would like to continue attending and devoting myself to it.

She supports me wholeheartedly

Sensei is close to, interacts directly with, and sincerely supports each and every one of her students. A few years ago, I gave birth to my child, and it became difficult for me to go to class, so I was worried about whether I could continue calligraphy. She told me to "relax and go at your own pace," suggesting that I participate in online practice. It's been 3 years since I've been receiving her teaching in this way. I was able to attain the master level, which was one of my goals. I am glad that I didn't give up, and I am filled with gratitude for Sensei for taking the time to teach us remotely.

There are still times when I can't write as I want to, but even that is fun now, and I would like to continue writing.

When I go through difficult times, I want to write

“Compose your spirit,” Ai-Sensei often says during lessons. I often remember these words in my daily life. Recently, when I go through difficult times, I want to write. "Time just for myself", where I straighten my spine, quietly face the paper, and concentrate on the tip of my brush is like meditation, like therapy... it seems to have become greatly healing for me. Compose your spirit in order to write, and by writing it becomes even more composed. It seems that while studying in the classroom, I learned not only how to write characters, but also how to self-reset without realizing it. (Lucky!)

My spirit becomes calm and composed during practice

It's been more than 10 years since I started going to Takaoka-Sensei's class. During practice, Sensei gives exquisite guidance according to the personality and condition of each student.

When she corrects me, she praises the good points and clearly informs me of the bad points, so I can see my writing objectively and have fun while improving. It's strange how when I write with a clear mind and receive guidance, my spirit becomes calm and composed during practice. Practice is a precious healing time. It is also a pleasure to be able to join the other students at practice and calligraphy exhibitions, among other occasions. I am deeply grateful for the connection I have with Sensei and everyone in her class.

Thank you for everything.