A Journey of Learning and Gratitude:
My Experience in Japan with the Chava Shelhav Child’Space® Method
I recently embarked on a transformative journey to Matsue, Japan, where I had the incredible opportunity to serve as a Co-Assistant in a 10-day training segment of the Chava Shelhav Child’Space® Method.
This experience not only marked my first venture into international teaching but also my initial travels abroad since the Covid-19 Pandemic, following my graduation from the Chava Shelhav Child’Space® Method program in Amsterdam in 2019. Working alongside esteemed Senior Child’Space® Trainer Barbara Leverone and Child’Space® Trainer Akiko Takao was an immense honour and privilege, making this journey a truly unforgettable experience.
My initial day at the Shelhav Method training in Matsue overflowed with gratitude, a big warm thank you to Akiko Takao’s exceptional organizational skills. As I stepped into the beautiful spacious room, the welcoming and respectful staff guided me on where to place my shoes and which slippers to wear. I was handed a mat, a name tag, and the choice of a doll to work with during the segment. The day proceeded meticulously, with everything starting and ending on time. Despite my initial nervousness about the language barrier, having a translator proved seamless. I felt incredibly privileged to be part of this experience, a sentiment I shared with the group and one I will continue to express.
I was also given the opportunity to facilitate the morning hands-on practice sessions with the students. During these sessions, I reviewed the hands-on practice from the previous day, providing students with the opportunity to practice under my supervision. On the second day, I had the exciting chance to teach my first Developmental Movement Exploration (DME) lesson on ‘extending to squat’ to a wonderful group of Japanese students. Their enthusiasm was contagious, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity.
The third day marked a significant milestone for me as I conducted my first baby demonstration session in a training segment with a Japanese mother and her adorable 9-month-old daughter, Yuki. It was a profoundly enriching experience filled with memorable moments.
One highlight was demonstrating Yuki’s impressive movement abilities to her mother and showcasing how introducing variation to her transitions could enhance her crawling symmetry. I stressed the importance of spending quality time with Yuki, emphasizing that even dedicating just 10 minutes a day to read or play could profoundly impact her overall development, especially in socio-emotional, language, and cognitive aspects.
Each day was filled with a full and intense program, starting with hands-on practice followed by DME lessons and baby demonstrations. The afternoons were dedicated to more hands-on practice and lectures. The students also undertook their practicums during this segment, providing them with the opportunity to work with mothers and babies and practice what they had learned throughout the training. For me, teaching was a significant highlight, coupled with being immersed in a rich and stimulating learning environment.
Amidst the intensive training, we had one day off, which I used to explore the cultural treasures of Matsue. I visited the Adachi Museum of Arts and Japanese-style Garden, a sanctuary of tranquillity and artistry. Additionally, I had the opportunity to explore Matsue Castle, one of Japan’s oldest original castles and a designated national treasure. The castle’s historical significance and architectural marvel left me in awe, reaffirming my deep respect for Japan’s rich heritage. To culminate this remarkable day, I was treated to the most breathtaking sunset at Lake Shinji, renowned for its spectacular sunsets, creating a perfect ending to an unforgettable experience.
The experience in Japan not only enhanced my professional skills but also broadened my cultural horizons. The enriching environment and respectful culture have left an indelible mark on my heart. I am eager to share my newfound knowledge and insights with the mothers and babies I work with in Soweto, knowing that this journey has equipped me with invaluable tools to make a meaningful difference in their lives.
This trip to Japan was more than a learning experience; it was a journey of gratitude, cultural immersion, and personal growth. I am profoundly thankful for the opportunity and look forward to incorporating these learnings into my practice, enriching the lives of those I work with.
Arigatougozaimasu, Japan, for the unforgettable memories and the wisdom shared. Until we meet again!
Note: “Arigatougozaimasu” means “thank you very much” in Japanese.
Empowering Through Poetry
In a world of clichés like ‘be strong’ and ‘believe in yourself,’ finding real strength means connecting these words to a purpose that truly resonates. For me, that purpose is poetry. It’s not just a hobby; it’s my fuel, my fire. Through the rhythm of words, I discover confidence and navigate life’s complexities. Join me in this empowering journey where poetry becomes a source of strength and self-discovery.
Embracing the uncomfortable
Art by Agnes-Cecile
In the whirlwind of busyness, I find my escape, Thinking it grants solace, a comforting shape. But beneath the facade, it’s a numbness that grows, A disconnect within me, a river that slows.
In stillness, I glimpse what I’ve longed to ignore, The numbness, the void, I’ve tried to deplore. Uncomfortable whispers, they claw and they pry, As I yearn to escape, to the outside I fly.
Outside, I’m absorbed in the world’s ceaseless dance, Yet inside, a battle, a relentless expanse. For going within triggers a threat deep and stark, The unbearable discomfort, an emotional spark.
But in this contrast, a lesson takes flight, To go inside gently, without inner fight. To soften the edges of discomfort’s sting, Discovering a way to let vulnerability sing.
To find that balance, a bridge to the soul, Where busyness and feelings need not be a toll. Embrace the stillness, let the numbness subside, In that quiet, you’ll find a haven inside.
By Monja Boonzaier
September 2023
Every change is a chance
Art by Freepix
In the midst of life’s twisting dance,
The chorus of fate begins to enhance,
Every change is a chance.
Caught in webs of difficulty’s glance,
We linger, trapped in circumstance,
Sometimes we stay in difficult situations.
Bound by fear, a hesitant stance,
Holding back our emancipation,
Afraid of hurting someone else.
Dreading judgment’s sharp expanse,
Silenced by others’ expectations,
Scared of what others might think or say.
Yet, in this struggle, we must not delay,
For in stagnant waters, our souls decay,
With this comes pain, we suffer ourselves.
Embrace the courage that paves the way,
Break the chains, free will compels,
Making a change can be difficult now.
Though stormy winds may wildly howl,
New opportunities it shall endow,
But it can give us a chance for change.
To grow, to learn, to wonder and bow,
As we seize life’s wondrous expanse,
Every change is a chance!
By Monja Boonzaier
July 2023
Putting Light into a Dark Place
Art by Marlena Wels
In the depths of self-inquiry, I delve,
Exploring the darkness, ready to unveil.
My aim is to bring light to this hidden space,
To claim the truths and let them embrace.
In the vast domain of knowledge, I stand,
Feeling humbled, with an eager demand.
Though I’ve acquired much, I must confess,
There’s still more to learn, my soul to address.
A yearning propels me to explore and expand,
To grasp the truths, like grains of sand.
For amidst the wisdom that I possess,
I humbly acknowledge my need to progress.
Deep in the realms of self-exploration, a part of my soul remains unsettled, not at peace.
Yet concealed in the darkness of the night, fear lurks behind.
For fear unveils an authentic, vulnerable essence,
A distressing trial of inadequacy, unsettling and real.
What lies behind the fear, a haunting shade,
Is the constant torment of not being good enough, displayed.
It devours from within, like a relentless storm,
Driving the urge to annihilate, to reform.
In the depths of this struggle, I search for light,
To overcome the shadows, to rise and take flight.
Acknowledging the fear, embracing it with grace,
I strive to be truthful, my soul to embrace.
Putting light into a dark place, I strive,
To understand the shadows, to revive.
And as I unravel the mysteries untold,
Illuminating truths, my journey unfolds.
By Monja Boonzaier
July 2023
Celebrating Life!
Art by Jim Warren
In the realm of beginnings, where life’s story unfurls,
I celebrate not just my parents, but my own place in this world.
For alongside their milestones, another chapter I embrace,
As I turn forty-six, a year of wisdom and grace.
My mother and father, at seventy, stand with pride,
Confronting life’s challenges, separately they stride.
Through trials and tribulations, their resilience held tight,
In this celebration, my joyous space takes flight.
With courage, my father faced adversity’s plight,
Never letting setbacks overshadow his might.
His determination and perseverance so strong,
Grant me the strength to endure, to carry on.
My mother, too, endured hardship’s sway,
Her perseverance through trials, lighting my way.
In her strength, I found courage, never to surrender,
For she taught me resilience, a trait I’ll forever remember.
And as I celebrate their lives, a new life blooms anew,
For my sister, a gift of joy, a miracle so true.
Her newborn baby brings hope, a symbol of pure grace,
A testament to dreams fulfilled, in this newfound space.
Now, as I mark my own birth, at forty-six,
Embracing the journey, life’s enigmatic mix.
With lessons learned and dreams ablaze, I venture anew,
A tapestry of experiences, woven with colours bright and true.
In this mosaic of new beginnings, where freshness light imparts,
I sculpt my own sculpture, etching stories on my heart.
For in life’s intricate dance, we find our rhythm and grace,
Grateful for this odyssey, my forty-sixth embrace.
So let’s raise a chorus, a symphony of cheer,
For lives reborn, milestones surpassed, crystal clear.
May joy and radiance be our compass, as we navigate anew,
Hearts brimming with gratitude, dreams transformed into view.
To my parents and two sisters, dear and true,
This tribute, my heartfelt gratitude for you,
In life’s vibrant chase, we greet each fresh start,
Celebrating my birth, wisdom’s treasures impart.
With my sister’s newborn, a gift of pure delight,
A new chapter unfolds, colours shining bright.
A symbol of hope and love, a miracle divine,
Our hearts united, this celebration is mine.
Let us treasure these moments, as we dance our own way,
Embracing family’s blessings, come what may.
For in life’s intricate fabric, love’s threads entwine,
Binding us eternally, in the stories we define.
Monja Boonzaier
July 2023