My name is Joshua Smith, PhD. and I am a photographer, shakuhachi player, and small business owner. My goal is to inspire others in their search for their own Shizen lifestyle - that's a modern life filled with creativity, flow, and nature.

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I received my Master's and Doctoral degree in Cultural Sociology (Japanese Studies) from

Osaka University, in Japan.

 

Having lived, worked and studied in Japan for many years, this is the inspiration I draw upon for this melding of styles.

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My studies in flow state science and Japanese aesthetics and concepts like Wabi-sabi & Ikigai, inform the way I help guide others in growing their photography, Japanese garden design, and overall wellbeing with a balanced lifestyle of nature and flow.

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My wife Satomi is the head chef at our Japanese restaurants and has a deep understanding of nutrition and Japanese culinary traditions. My daughter Miana is also a budding photographer and part of the team. My son Kazu is currently finding his flow in playing the electric bass. My family and I split our time between Buffalo, NY and Japan.