In late March and early April, flight ticket prices to Japan surge. Why? Because people from around the world travel here to witness one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles: cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Over the years, the beauty of sakura (cherry blossom) has captured the hearts of many foreigners. But did you know that this beloved tradition goes far beyond just taking photos under the petals?
In Japan, we have a long-standing custom called hanami (花見) – literally, “flower viewing.” Families, friends, and coworkers gather under cherry blossom trees to eat, drink, sing, and celebrate the arrival of spring. Sometimes there's even karaoke involved! It’s joyful, lively, and deeply rooted in Japanese culture.
🌸 Why Cherry Blossoms Mean So Much to Us
Cherry blossoms are only with us for about two weeks each year. That fleeting beauty reminds us to treasure the present moment. As soon as they vanish, we’re already looking forward to their return the next spring.
But there’s more to hanami than meets the eye. In fact, it reflects an early form of what’s now known worldwide as the Law of Attraction.
🌾 Centuries Ago: Manifesting a Good Harvest
Around the 12th century, Japanese farmers likely began a tradition called 予祝 (Yoshuku) — which means “celebrating in advance.”
At the start of spring, they would gather under blooming cherry blossom trees celebrating a bountiful harvest before a single crop had grown. The idea was simple: by feeling and expressing the joy of a good harvest, they would attract that reality into their lives. This celebration gave them energy and motivation to work hard in the fields.
In modern terms, this was manifestation through positive emotion and ritual. A beautiful blend of belief, gratitude, and community.
✨ What Is Yoshuku?
Yoshuku is the act of celebrating before your dream or goal comes true — as if it already has.
Think of it as:
Visualizing your desired outcome
Feeling the joy as though it’s already real
Sharing that joy through food, drink, and connection
Expressing gratitude for the result (and to yourself!)
It’s simple, joyful, and powerful.
🌟 How You Can Practice Yoshuku Today
Want to try it for yourself? Here’s how:
Decide what you want to attract. A new job, better health, finding love, passing an exam—anything.
Feel it as if it already happened. Imagine the emotions you'd feel. Relief? Pride? Excitement?
Celebrate! Prepare a small feast, buy your favorite drink, or invite someone you love. Raise a glass to your “already successful” self.
Say it out loud. “I got the job!” “I met my soulmate!” “My business is thriving!”
Give thanks. To yourself, to those who support you, and to the universe.
🧠 Is There Any Scientific Proof?
Great question! While “Yoshuku” itself hasn’t been the subject of academic studies, its principles are supported by science.
Neuroscience shows that when we vividly imagine a positive future, our brain begins to “believe” it’s possible. This can lead to increased motivation and better decision-making.
Positive psychology highlights the power of emotions like gratitude and joy in shaping our outcomes.
Behavioral science supports the idea that celebrating small wins boosts momentum and persistence.
In short, Yoshuku is not only beautiful — it works.
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Let’s celebrate life — even before it happens. 🌸
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