Healthcare Beliefs


 Japan's healthcare belief systems are made up of a combination of traditional Japanese philosophies and modern Western medicine, “nonetheless, there has been a recent shift from collectivism to individualism due to changes in the social structure”(Takimoto, 2022). The most common perspectives revolve around overall well-being and the balance of bodily functions. One prevalent concept is the belief in "ki" or life energy, derived from traditional Japanese medicine. Maintaining the balance of ki is seen as crucial for good health, and practices such as acupuncture and herbal medicine are embraced to achieve this harmony. Additionally, the influence of Shinto and Buddhist beliefs is evident in the emphasis on preventive care and the interconnectedness of mind and body. “The dominant faiths in Japan are Shintoism and Buddhism and most Japanese believe in both”(Blanch, 2018). Many Japanese people approach healthcare with a proactive mindset, focusing on lifestyle choices and preventive measures to avoid illness altogether. These perspectives significantly impact illness prevention and treatment approaches. Preventive care is prioritized, with an emphasis on healthy diet, exercise, and mindfulness practices. 

In Japan, similar to the healthcare belief systems, death is often viewed through a Shinto and Buddhist lens, emphasizing ancestral importance. The custom of conducting funerals and memorial services is prevalent, stemming from Buddhism. The deceased's spirit is believed to linger, creating ongoing family rituals. Cremation is the norm, aligning with Shinto purity concepts. “ In ancient times, it was believed that when a person died their spirit would linger around their body until burial or cremation had taken place” (Japanihon, 2023). Japanese culture values stoicism, and mourning practices often focus on maintaining composure.

If I had a friend working in an NGO in Japan, in order to help them communicate more effectively I would first tell them to become familiar with the local cultural customs. Understanding how people express pain, gratitude, or discomfort is crucial for effective communication. I would also tell them to put emphasis on understanding nonverbal communication such as facial expressions or body language because these actions convey lots of information in Japan.  Lastly, I would advise my friend to attend a form of cultural sensitivity training.  This can help them gain insights into the local healthcare system, beliefs around health and illness, and any potential taboo which are very important in Japanese culture.


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