Teru Nakashima Delivers 'Self-Esteem Lecture' at Kobe Tokiwa University's Faculty of Nursing

Teru Nakashima, Representative Director of the General Incorporated Association Self-Esteem Academy, served as a guest lecturer for a 'Self-Esteem Lecture' at the Faculty of Nursing at Kobe Tokiwa University in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture.

Kobe Tokiwa University is a leading private institution in Kobe that has been cultivating professionals in the fields of medicine and education for 116 years. The university promotes the 'Tokiwa Competency,' which fosters four key attributes: intelligence, expertise, citizenship, and sensibility. It emphasizes the development of autonomous individuals who can collaborate and continue learning proactively throughout their lives. The Faculty of Nursing, in particular, focuses on the fundamental question of 'how to approach and contribute to society as a nurse.'

In this lecture, themes included: 'What is self-esteem?', 'How to foster and improve self-esteem?', 'The connection between mind and body', and 'Self-care required for interpersonal support roles.' The session utilized experiential workshops, including the 'Yatta Pose' (raised-hands pose), allowing students to experience firsthand how physical posture can influence emotions and self-perception. The students responded with many smiles and positive feedback.

Nursing is a profession that supports not only a patient's 'life' but also their 'mind.' Consequently, the core message delivered was: 'Only those who truly cherish themselves can deeply support others.'

Following the lecture, many students shared serious reflections, stating things like, 'My way of facing myself has changed' and 'I have realized an essential perspective for a nurse.' We hope these future medical professionals will use self-esteem as their foundation to shine as their own individuals and support many others. We extend our deepest gratitude to Professor Kenjo Mizohata and all those involved for this valuable opportunity.