Therapy from Japan… Naikan Therapy and Morita Therapy
Wednesday, March 6, 2024.
A Modest Comparison of Naikan Therapy and Morita Therapy: Exploring Japanese Models Versus Western Approaches.
Naikan therapy and Morita therapy are two distinct Japanese therapeutic approaches that offer unique perspectives on self-reflection, mindfulness, and personal growth.
Let’s discuss the principles and methodologies of Naikan therapy and Morita therapy and compare and contrast them with Western therapeutic approaches.
We’ll also visit some important thought leaders along the way…
Naikan Therapy:
Naikan therapy, developed by Ishin Yoshimoto in the 20th century, emphasizes self-reflection and gratitude.
It focuses on three primary questions:
What have I received from others?
What have I given to others?
What troubles and difficulties have I caused to others?
By introspecting on these questions, individuals gain insights into their relationships and cultivate a sense of gratitude and empathy.
Ishin Yoshimoto is regarded as the pioneer of Naikan therapy, introducing its principles and methodologies to the world.
His works, including "A Day of Inner Reflection," have been influential in spreading Naikan practice globally.
Dr. Shoma Morita, the founder of Morita therapy, outlined its principles in his seminal works such as "Morita Therapy and the True Nature of Anxiety-Based Disorders," laying the foundation for its application in Japanese clinical settings.
Morita Therapy:
Morita therapy, founded by Dr. Shoma Morita, centers on acceptance of one's emotions and the importance of action-oriented behavior. Unlike Western psychotherapy, which often aims to eliminate negative emotions, Morita therapy encourages individuals to accept and coexist with their feelings while focusing on meaningful actions and responsibilities. No wonder Fritz Perls spent a week in a Morita Hospital to learn the ideas.
How Do Naikan Therapy and Morita Therapy Compare?
While both Naikan and Morita therapies originate from Japan and emphasize introspection and personal growth, they differ in their approaches.
Naikan therapy focuses on gratitude and reflection on past actions, while Morita therapy emphasizes acceptance of emotions and engagement in purposeful activities.
In contrast, Western therapeutic approaches often prioritize symptom reduction and introspection into emotional states.
Western therapeutic models, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychoanalysis, often focus on identifying and modifying dysfunctional thoughts and behaviors. In contrast, Naikan and Morita therapies prioritize acceptance and mindfulness, viewing discomfort and suffering as integral parts of the human experience rather than obstacles to be overcome.
These Japanese models both call for a more complex map of consciousness than the straightforward approach of CBT, which eclipsed these ideas. That was extremely unfortunate, as these concepts are essential for combating cultural narcissism.
The Pivotal Contribution of David Reynolds…
David Reynolds has played a pivotal role in popularizing Naikan and Morita therapy in the USA.
Through his translations and publications, including "Naikan Therapy: Naikan, Gratitude, Grace, and the Japanese Art of Self-Reflection" and "Morita Therapy and the True Nature of Anxiety-Based Disorders," Reynolds has introduced these Japanese therapeutic approaches to Western audiences.
More importantly, he trained many Americans, some of whom, such as Dr. Stan Tatkin, eventually became essential thought leaders, and incorporated these ideas into Western couples therapy.
His insightful works have contributed significantly to the dissemination and understanding of Naikan and Morita therapies in Western contexts, fostering cross-cultural exchange and enriching the field of psychotherapy.
Final thoughts
Naikan therapy and Morita therapy offer unique perspectives on self-reflection and personal growth.
Unlike Western therapeutic approaches, they emphasize gratitude, acceptance, and action-oriented behavior.
I find these ideas particularly compelling because they contradict self-absorption, and invite us to think beyond selfishness.
While Ishin Yoshimoto and Dr. Shoma Morita pioneered these Japanese models within their own nation, their contributions spread to the West due to the efforts of David Reynolds and others. As a consequence, these ideas persist and hopefully will continue to shape the landscape of psychotherapy worldwide.
As humans seek holistic approaches to mental well-being, the humble insights provided by Naikan and Morita therapies offer valuable and viable alternatives to self-preoccupied Western paradigms.
Be well, stay kind, and Godspeed.
REFERENCES:
Reynolds, D. (Ed.). (2018). Naikan Therapy: Naikan, Gratitude, Grace, and the Japanese Art of Self-Reflection. Stone Bridge Press.
Reynolds, D. (Ed.). (2019). Morita Therapy and the True Nature of Anxiety-Based Disorders: Shoma Morita, M.D., Father of Japanese Psychotherapy. Stone Bridge Press.
Yoshimoto, I. (1988). A Day of Inner Reflection. Weatherhill.
Morita, S. (1998). Morita Therapy and the True Nature of Anxiety-Based Disorders. State University of New York Press.
Reynolds, D. (1997). The Quiet Therapies: Japanese Pathways to Personal Growth. University of Hawaii Press.
Reynolds, D. (1999). A brief course in Naikan Therapy: Inclining the mind's eye. Naikan Foundation.
