In the latest episode of the “Yellow Chair Collective Podcast,” host Helen Garcia sits down with Asuka Garcia, LCSW, to delve into the ancient Japanese art of Taiko drumming and its remarkable impact on mental health.
The conversation takes listeners on an insightful journey, touching on both personal and professional aspects of this powerful practice and its relevance to the Asian American experience, particularly when it comes to mental health and the challenges of seeking help.
Taiko Drumming: A Mindfulness Practice from Japan
Taiko drumming is not just a rhythmic performance but a deeply mindful practice that connects the body, mind, and soul.
With its roots in Japanese culture, this physically demanding art form requires intense concentration and synchronization, creating an immersive experience. Helen and Asuka explore how this ancient tradition can serve as a tool for mindfulness, helping individuals to center themselves and stay present.
For Asuka, who has been learning and performing Taiko, the practice became more than just a way to engage with her cultural heritage—it was a form of self-care that grounded her in the present moment. She shares how each beat of the drum brought her
- clarity and calm
- process emotions
- reduce stress through the mindful rhythm of the drum.
Asian American Mental Health and the Stigma of Asking for Help
Mental health struggles within the Asian American community often carry a heavy stigma, with many individuals feeling shame or guilt when seeking help.
Asuka brings her professional expertise to this topic, shedding light on how cultural expectations, family dynamics, and societal pressures play a role in preventing many from asking for assistance. However, she also highlights the importance of breaking through these barriers and normalizing the conversation around mental health. Taiko drumming offers a safe space for expression, giving participants the opportunity to connect with their emotions and release feelings that may be hard to articulate.
In this sense, Taiko serves not only as a mindful practice but as a bridge to deeper emotional healing.
The Role of Community in Taiko and Personal Growth
Both Helen and Asuka reflect on how Taiko fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie, where individuals support each other in their personal growth.
Taiko, in this way, is much more than a solo practice—it’s a shared experience where drummers come together to create something powerful, both physically and emotionally. Asuka’s journey with Taiko has been transformative, teaching her valuable lessons about perseverance, discipline, and vulnerability. It is a challenging art form that requires dedication, practice, and a willingness to learn.
Conclusion: The Healing Power of Taiko Drumming
As the episode draws to a close, Helen and Asuka reflect on how Taiko has enriched their lives, both personally and professionally. For Asuka, Taiko is more than just drumming—it is a journey of self-discovery, mindfulness, and healing. The discussion is a reminder of the power of art to transcend cultural barriers, foster community, and provide a space for emotional expression.
Tune in to this episode of the Yellow Chair Collective Podcast to explore the intersection of Taiko drumming, mindfulness, and mental health, and gain valuable insights into the Asian American experience.
Key Takeaways:
- Taiko drumming is a mindful practice that connects the mind and body.
- Mental health challenges in the Asian American community often involve cultural stigmas around asking for help.
- The Taiko community fosters a sense of belonging and personal growth.
- Sharing personal experiences in art forms like Taiko enriches the learning process and deepens self-understanding.
Chapters:
- 00:00 Introduction and Cultural Identity
- 04:39 Journey into Mental Health
- 12:36 Mind-Body Connection and Personal Experiences
- 13:33 Exploring Taiko as Self-Care
- 21:28 The Role of Community in Taiko
- 26:25 Navigating Relationships and Cultural Expectations
- 38:43 Closing Thoughts and Reflections
Seek An Individual Therapist at Yellow Chair Collective in Los Angeles or New York
If you are seeking therapy specifically tailored to your needs, consider reaching out to the therapists at Yellow Chair Collective. We understand that there may be unique contextual factors that may influence your experiences.
At our Los Angeles, CA, and New York City, NY-based therapy practice, we have many skilled, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive therapists who can provide an empowering therapeutic experience. For your added convenience and simplicity, we offer online therapy for anyone in the state of California or New York. We know that beginning your healing journey and learning mindfulness practices can be challenging, and we want to support you along the way. Follow the steps below to begin.
- Fill out the contact form to get connected with us.
- Get matched with one of our individual therapists.
- Start the next step in your career journey.
Other Services at Yellow Chair Collective
There are many options for treatment using online therapy in California and New York, it just depends on what you’re needing. And while we certainly service Asian American folks, we also work with individuals from other cultures, too. So, whether you’re needing support in overcoming anxiety, burnout, trauma, or PTSD, we can help. Likewise, we serve teens and couples in need of support, too. So when you start online therapy with us, you can bring your whole self, including past struggles, cultural impacts, and more.