Wisdom of Shoma Morita | Generated by AI

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Shoma Morita was a Japanese psychiatrist and the creator of Morita Therapy, which focuses on acceptance and mindfulness rather than trying to control or eliminate emotions. His approach draws heavily on Zen Buddhism and integrates ideas around human suffering, personal growth, and the nature of life itself.

Here are a few key aspects of his wisdom:

1. Acceptance of Feelings

Morita believed that emotions, such as anxiety, fear, and sadness, are natural parts of life. Instead of trying to control or suppress them, we should accept them as they are. He emphasized that we cannot “feel” in a controlled or ideal way; emotions come and go, and trying to fight them can actually worsen the problem.

2. Focusing on Action

Morita therapy encourages people to focus on action and living life, regardless of the emotional state they may be in. He believed that rather than becoming preoccupied with “how I feel,” people should take steps toward meaningful tasks and goals. By engaging in life fully and focusing on what needs to be done, we naturally find a sense of purpose.

3. Living with the Present Moment

One of Morita’s core teachings was about living fully in the present. He advised people to stop worrying about past failures or future uncertainties and focus instead on what is directly in front of them. Life is happening now, and engaging with the present moment is a path to peace.

4. The Role of Suffering

According to Morita, suffering is an inevitable part of life. Instead of trying to eliminate or avoid suffering, we should learn to live with it, understand it, and find ways to grow from it. Suffering often leads to personal development when we accept it and move forward despite it.

5. The Importance of Self-Discipline

He also emphasized that self-discipline is crucial in facing life’s challenges. While emotions are inevitable, our response to them is within our control. Morita advocated for cultivating the inner strength to keep moving forward, no matter what emotions or challenges we encounter.

6. Living in Harmony with Nature

Morita integrated a lot of wisdom from Zen Buddhism, where one seeks harmony with nature, both the natural world and the internal nature of the self. By understanding ourselves and the world around us, we can live more fully and authentically.

His approach was counter to the modern Western ideas of therapy that emphasize the need to understand or eliminate mental distress. Instead, he suggested that by accepting our emotional states and focusing on meaningful actions, we can lead a fuller, more grounded life.


Shoma Morita (1874–1938) was a Japanese psychiatrist who developed Morita therapy, a unique approach to psychotherapy influenced by Zen Buddhism. His wisdom centers on accepting life as it is and understanding the natural flow of emotions. Here are some key aspects of his wisdom:

Core Principles of Morita Therapy:

Key Insights from Morita’s Wisdom:

Practical Applications of Morita’s Wisdom:

In essence, Shoma Morita’s wisdom encourages a shift from trying to control inner feelings to accepting them and focusing on purposeful action in the present moment, aligning oneself with the natural flow of life.


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