We were lucky to catch up with Satsuki Shibuya recently and have shared our conversation below.
Satsuki, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
I found my purpose through trial and error. There was no definitive path, nor did anyone tell me how to get where I wanted to go. From a young age, I knew I wanted to do something different—something meaningful. I wanted to leave a mark on the world. But looking back, I realize purpose isn’t a destination; it’s a journey, a process that evolves with time, shaped by our experiences and what we gather from them.
My purpose is rooted in supporting others on their spiritual path, whatever that may be, while expressing my own through artistic creation. It’s about finding a balance between putting myself out there—offering representation in my field—and healing generational wounds caused by misalignment with self. Purpose, at its essence, is being who I am unapologetically and living in my truth.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
My journey as an artist and spiritual guide has always been one of exploration—of the unseen, of energy, and of how we connect to something greater than ourselves. My work is deeply rooted in spirituality, translating intangible energies into paintings, poetry, and intuitive guidance. Each creation is not just an artistic expression but an offering—an invitation to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the quiet wisdom within.
Right now, I’m excited to be preparing for the launch of Shunkashūtō, a space I’ve envisioned for some time—a sanctuary for spiritual exploration, creativity, and alignment. Shunkashūtō is not a traditional school, but a conservatory of sorts, where insights unfold organically, mirroring the changing seasons of our inner and outer worlds. It will serve as a place where I can share wisdom as it arises, through writings, recordings, and gatherings that flow in harmony with my own rhythm.
In addition to this, I’m preparing for the upcoming release of new works—each piece an extension of my continued journey with the unseen, expressing the ephemeral nature of time and the energies that move through us. This collection feels deeply connected to the theme of impermanence and the beauty found within transitions.
At its core, my work is about creating portals—whether through art or spiritual guidance—that invite people into a deeper dialogue with themselves and the universe.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, three things have been most impactful in my journey—lessons that continue to shape not only my work but also how I move through life.
The first is **understanding the impermanence of all things**. Nothing is fixed—ideas, emotions, opportunities, even the self—everything is in a constant state of flux. Once I embraced this, I stopped clinging to outcomes and instead allowed myself to flow with what was unfolding. Creativity, intuition, and alignment all thrive when we release control and trust the natural rhythm of life.
The second is **the importance of experience—learning from everything, even the things we don’t want to do**. Early on, I took on projects that weren’t necessarily aligned, but each one taught me something invaluable. They helped me refine what truly resonates, giving me the clarity and confidence to shape a career that feels authentic. Growth happens in layers, and sometimes, the lessons that feel the most misaligned are the ones that later reveal the most wisdom.
And finally, **staying humble, always**. A professor once told me, *”You can be the most talented, gifted person, but if you’re a jerk, no one will want to work with you. Being kind and gracious goes a long way.”* That lesson has stayed with me. No matter where we go or what we achieve, the way we treat others leaves the deepest impression. Genuine connections, mutual respect, and a spirit of gratitude open more doors than talent alone ever could.
For those just beginning their journey, I’d say—allow yourself to evolve, be open to experiences that may not seem like the “right” fit at first, and always lead with kindness. Everything else will fall into place in its own time.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed, I turn to practices that bring me back to center—**meditation, journaling, yoga, breathwork, taking a nap, or reading a book**. These are simple tools, ones many might recommend, but what makes the difference for me is **giving myself full permission to engage in them without any expectations or guilt**. I allow myself to enjoy them completely, knowing that stepping away isn’t time lost—it’s what creates more abundance within.
I’ve learned that the key isn’t forcing a rigid practice but **having a toolbox of things that nourish you and intuitively choosing what aligns in the moment**. Sometimes that means movement, other times stillness. What works one day might not be what’s needed the next, and that’s okay. The most important thing is to listen—to trust what your body, mind, and spirit are asking for and honor that without hesitation.
For anyone navigating overwhelm, I’d say—give yourself grace. Create space for what truly supports you, and know that rest, reflection, and slowing down are just as vital as action. Balance isn’t about doing more; it’s about aligning with what you need, moment by moment.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.satsukishibuya.com
- Instagram: @satsukishibuya
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/satsukishibuya
- Linkedin: Satsuki Shibuya
- Youtube: @satsukishibuya
- Other: Substack: https://satsukishibuya.substack.com
Image Credits
Vitruvi – Carmen Chan (https://www.carmen-chan.com)
Satsuki portrait – Jennifer Young (https://www.jenniferyoungstudio.com)
Artwork imagery – Tappan Collective (https://www.tappancollective.com)
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.