COURSE

Kintsugi Art - A Metaphor For Healing And Transformation

Kintsugi is the Japanese art of putting broken things back together again. Kintsugi can teach us to find new perspectives in challenging situations for personal growth. The Kintsugi philosophy is a rejection of perfectionism and perceived external beauty, and at the same time an acceptance and demonstration of acceptance and demonstration of the courage to face brokenness. Kintsugi also means committing to a longer process - because repair takes weeks and months and involves longer periods of rest. We will walk you through the Kintsugi Process along the acronyms: K — Kindness: I — Investigate N — Notice T — Time and Touch S — Stillness and Solitude U — Urushii G — Gold I — Intention

Healing Forgiveness Grief Secular Mindfulness Insight Meditation Recovery & Healing Relationships Secular Mindfulness

Meet your Teacher

Motoki

Lisbon, Portugal

Born in 1973, Motoki has travelled to Japan to research and document the origins of the art of Kintsugi. He is an author and has published short films on Kintsugi and Ikigai, and is passionate about guiding people to find meaning and new possibilities even in the midst of life's challenges. His Japanese roots led him to train as a Kintsugi and Ikigai Life Coach. He has since turned his passion into a career, helping people and organisations to develop a sense of values in their everyday and professional lives.

9 Days

2.0k students

4.8 stars

8 min / day

Healing

English

Lesson 1

Introduction To This Kintsugi Course

Welcome to the Introduction to This Kintsugi Course, guided by me, Motoki. In this opening session, we set the foundation for a transformative journey through the ancient art of Kintsugi, a practice that not only mends broken ceramics but also offers profound lessons in healing and personal growth. Kintsugi, meaning "golden repair," teaches us to find beauty in imperfection and strength in vulnerability. Throughout this course, we will explore how the principles of Kintsugi can be applied to our lives, helping us to embrace our flaws and transform our broken parts into unique testimonies of our resilience. As your guide, I will walk you through each step of the Kintsugi process, drawing parallels between repairing ceramics and healing the self. We will delve into the art of noticing and accepting our fractures, tenderly piecing them back together, and highlighting our scars with gold, symbolizing the beauty in our healed wounds. To enrich this introduction, I will also offer a meditation designed to ground us in the present moment, connect us with our inner selves, and prepare our hearts and minds for the journey ahead. Together, we will breathe, reflect, and set intentions for our exploration of Kintsugi and its application to our lives. Join me in this journey of discovery and renewal, as we learn to see our imperfections not as flaws, but as opportunities for growth and transformation. Let's embrace the Kintsugi way, finding wholeness and beauty in the pieces of our lives.

Lesson 2

K: Kindness And Care

In the first chapter of our Kintsugi journey, we explore the profound meanings of "Kindness and Care." As your guide through this transformative process, I emphasize the importance of extending to ourselves the same compassion and understanding we would offer to a close friend. This foundational step is crucial for healing, allowing us to embrace our imperfections and vulnerabilities with grace. We delve into the concept of care, rooted in the ancient word "KARU," and its significance in nurturing our well-being. Reflecting on Gabor Maté's insight, we recognize that disconnecting from our natural self-compassion can significantly hinder our healing journey. By observing the meticulous attention a Kintsugi master gives to each broken piece, we learn the value of treating our own 'breaks' and 'cracks' with delicate care and respect. I invite you to open your heart to self-kindness and self-care, pondering what might be holding you back from fully embracing this nurturing voice. Imagine the supportive words a compassionate friend would offer you in your situation. This chapter is an invitation to sit with these reflections, perhaps journaling your thoughts or simply allowing them to resonate within you, as we prepare to mend our broken pieces with the golden light of kindness and care.

Lesson 3

I: Investigate

In the "Investigate" chapter of our Kintsugi journey, we delve into the process of closely examining the broken pieces of our lives. This stage is about introspection and understanding, mirroring the careful examination a Kintsugi master undertakes with each fragment of broken ceramics. The emphasis here is on curiosity and openness, allowing us to see the full extent of our 'damage' not as a flaw but as part of our story. This investigation lays the foundation for healing, as it brings to light the truths we need to confront and accept to move forward in our personal transformation.

Lesson 4

N: Notice

In the "Notice" chapter, we embrace the art of mindful observation, much like a Kintsugi master examines each shard with care. This meditation guides you to gently focus on a significant moment from your life, inviting you to breathe deeply and observe it without judgment. Through this process, you're encouraged to notice the emotions, thoughts, and sensations that arise, allowing the simple act of observation to become a pathway to healing and insight. This meditation is about connecting deeply with a chosen moment, understanding its nuances, and finding peace in the present observation.

Lesson 5

T: Time And Touch

In this chapter of our Kintsugi course, we explore the profound role that time and touch play in the healing process. This chapter delves into the understanding that healing, much like the art form of Kintsugi, cannot be rushed. It emphasizes the importance of giving ourselves the time to heal, mirroring the Kintsugi practice of allowing repaired pieces to rest so that the materials can heal and strengthen.

Lesson 6

S: Silence And Solitude

In this chapter, we explore the profound impact of Stillness and Solitude on our healing journey. Embracing the notion that "Silence is the fertile ground for growth," we recognize the transformative power of quiet reflection and the peace found in solitude. This practice isn't about inactivity but about engaging deeply with the present moment and ourselves, without any specific expectations. We're invited to seek solace in solitude, to tune into our inner voice, and to uncover the insights and wisdom that emerge from silence. This approach reminds us that in moments of stillness, we're intimately connected with our deepest selves, where the essence of healing and understanding resides.

Lesson 7

U: Urushi and Utensils

To mend broken pieces in the Kintsugi process, specific tools and materials are essential. We need things like special brushes, spatulas, and most importantly, Urushi lacquer. This unique lacquer, derived from the sap of the Urushi tree, is fascinating due to its toxic raw state. Yet, when it dries, it becomes safe and contributes significantly to the strength and solidity of the repaired item, creating a new whole that's both durable and aesthetically pleasing. Urushi, combined with rice sap, acts as a strong adhesive, bonding the shattered fragments. The transformation from its hazardous raw form to a hardened, non-toxic state is a crucial part of the process, ensuring the repaired piece is not just visually enhanced with gold but also structurally sound. Reflecting on this, it's worth considering the 'tools' and 'resources' we have in our own lives. These could range from tangible tools and learned skills to intangible resources like life experiences, wisdom, support from friends, or guidance from mentors. These 'tools' are what we use to navigate life's challenges, mend our own 'breaks', and emerge stronger, much like the Kintsugi pieces. What 'tools' do you find yourself reaching for in times of need? What resources, experiences, or people in your life help you piece things back together?

Lesson 8

G: Gold

In the "Gold" chapter, we reflect on turning our life's challenges into valuable lessons, akin to Kintsugi's art of beautifying breaks with gold. We're encouraged to identify the 'golden lines'—the growth and wisdom emerging from our setbacks. By revisiting past experiences with a 'golden pen,' we highlight events that have shaped us, recognizing the beauty and strength in our scars. This process helps us see the meaning in our struggles, embodying Haruki Murakami's insight that pain with purpose can be endured, transforming our narrative into a unique masterpiece adorned with lines of gold.

Lesson 9

I: Intention

What is possible now? This final chapter on "Intention" invites us to reflect on the transformative possibilities that lie ahead after our journey through Kintsugi. It's an opportunity to ponder how the healing we've experienced can deepen our connection with ourselves and, by extension, with others. As we embrace this newfound understanding, we might feel inspired to assist those facing similar challenges, sharing the valuable insights we've acquired. Moreover, this chapter encourages us to express gratitude towards those who have supported us through our trials, highlighting the importance of companionship in navigating life's adversities. It's a call to apply the golden wisdom of our healing journey, fostering enrichment in our lives and the lives of those around us.

4.8 (126)

Recent Reviews

Sylvie

February 9, 2026

Really interesting perspective 🙏✨

May

January 15, 2026

Absolutely beautiful!

sherrie

November 22, 2025

A beautiful course which softly embraces your brokenness and provides the tools and insights to repair it.

Peggy

November 13, 2025

A beautiful metaphor, artfully described throughout the course. Thank you.

sher

September 17, 2025

Beautiful!

Sheena

September 14, 2025

I have been going through a difficult medical situation and this course has helped me greatly stay calm through my healing and view my journey with a new golden perspective. As an artist this course has also inspired me to create new art and has rekindled my love for Japanese culture. Thank you Motoki.

Jeannie

September 5, 2025

Beautiful course.

Glenn

August 25, 2025

Thank you 🙏🙏

Arani

August 2, 2025

Beautiful and profound. Thank you 💜🙏

Hope

July 7, 2025

Very inspiring and interesting course. I love the gentleness with which it was presented. No hurry. No rush. Take your time to reflect and heal. I had many insights and am eager to share this course with others.

Susan

June 16, 2025

The metaphor of kintsugi for healing is a powerful one. Thank you for this peaceful and contemplative journey.

Zachary

May 22, 2025

I liked the prompts that encouraged me to slow down and reflect, to imagine a new narrative within brokenness. This started me journaling again and thinking more intentionally about the tools I already have to heal myself

Janet

May 18, 2025

🙏

Barb

May 8, 2025

Beautiful message and voice. I loved using the letters to break down this idea for deepest exploration. Thank you. I plan to listen again soon to help setting my intentions. I highly recommend this short, profound course.

Helene

May 2, 2025

Wow! I absolutely loved this!! I looked forward to each new day of your teachings.. such a gentle but powerful message delivered by you! You are a gentle wise master who has opened me to these beautiful teachings.. wonderful, so insightful and with such a dignified but gentle way.. you are a beautiful beautiful soul! I will embrace more of your teachings and redo this course! The piano beginning and ending, is just so so beautiful! Ahh.. it enhanced and completed your teachings beautifully !! I feel so grateful I’ve been exposed to your teachings.. Thank you, Thank you! Helene 😊❤️👏🏻

Vicki

April 30, 2025

A beautiful metaphor and so well presented. Thank you

Cheryl

April 29, 2025

A kind loving meditation in your voice.. Thank you for this healing philosophy ….

Kelly

April 19, 2025

I am grateful 🙏 🥲 Enjoyed these 9 days!

Alison

April 16, 2025

This teacher brings a gentle radiance to this idea and practice. His soothing manner felt like a caring friend offering to explore some pretty traumatic events with me. I truly appreciate him and his course. Thank you so much sensei!

Olivia

April 6, 2025

Knowing I can come back to this brings me joy. Many thanks for the lessons.

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