Since ancient times, Yamabushi were believed to acquire supernatural powers through the practice of rigorous mountain ascetics. In the 16th century, Christian missionaries to Japan regarded them with hostility, as "sorcerers in the service of the devil." Our spiritual explorers Andrea and Mandy seek to understand the spirituality of Yamabushi through a three-day ascetic program.
Yamabushi literally means Mountain (Yama) Warrior (Bushi). They are mountain hermits with a long tradition, endowed with supernatural powers in traditional Japanese mysticism that there are even legends of them killing demons, so you could say they were the original Demon Slayers. They were also among the first few to climb Mount Fuji, which pretty much tells you how fearsome they were being able to climb such a mountain without the technology of modern hiking.
Join the two hosts as they embark on a 3 days journey in becoming a Yamabushi and discovers that it’s not as easy as it seems. Trying to harness the power of nature and be one with it, is both physically and mentally challenging. And watching the the two, feels like you’re watching a real life anime.
Physical endurance is one thing but mental endurance is another.
Although Andrea managed to complete the training but not Mandy, I still respect her for her bravery in actually trying and it takes great courage to admit your own weakness than pretending to be fine for fear of being judged by others. I mean, how many of us can actually confront ourselves with the hard truth?
And it’s not about conquering the mountains but more appreciating it’s raw power and absorbing it, making you feel as if you are a part of it. It’s when you no longer feel tired when climbing or cold when you endure under the freezing waterfall that feels like sharp needles hitting your body that you know you’ve absorbed the power of nature and being one with it.