In today’s society, we are flooded with information, and diverse values are constantly being exchanged. Whether in work, family, or relationships, life can become complicated, and it’s easy to feel uncertain about what to choose or how to act. This is exactly why having your own “axis” is so important.

Shinto teachings offer us valuable insights into living authentically. One of the most crucial lessons is the importance of having your own axis, which leads to inner stability and helps you maintain harmony with others while staying true to yourself.

What is an “Axis”?
In short, an axis is a set of personal beliefs, values, and principles that guide your actions. It’s the foundation that allows you to make decisions and take actions based on your own will, rather than being swayed by others’ opinions or trends. In Shinto, harmony with nature and the gods is a central principle, and this provides a useful perspective on how to build and maintain your own axis.

For example, Shinto teaches that divinity exists in all aspects of nature. This concept reflects the importance of living in balance with your environment and the people around you, while staying true to your personal path. In other words, respecting others while not letting yourself be swept away by outside forces.

What You Gain from Having Your Own Axis
Having your own axis gives you the strength to stay steady in your decisions and actions, reducing uncertainty and anxiety. Whether it’s making tough choices at work or facing challenges in relationships, if you have a strong axis, you’ll be able to respond confidently without losing your direction. This idea closely aligns with Shinto values like “purity” and “honesty.”

“Purity” in Shinto refers to keeping your mind and body clean, but in a modern sense, it can be understood as keeping your heart stable and true by living according to your axis. Likewise, “honesty” not only means being sincere with others but also being true to your own beliefs. By holding onto your axis in your daily life, you build trust and genuine relationships with others.

Staying Strong in Difficult Times with Your Axis
We all face difficult times in life. When unexpected problems arise or when worries deepen, it’s easy to lose sight of your values or position. However, this is when having your own axis becomes most important. Just as Shinto rituals and festivals help people connect with the gods and find peace within themselves, having your axis provides a strong foundation to support you through challenges.

When you have a firm axis, you can deal with adversity based on your values and keep moving forward without being overwhelmed by uncertainty. The connection with the gods and respect for nature in Shinto cultivates this kind of mental resilience.

Maintaining Harmony with Others While Keeping Your Own Axis
Another important teaching in Shinto is the concept of “Yaoyorozu no Kami” — the belief in eight million gods. This reflects the idea that there are many gods, each with their own roles and characteristics. Our society is also made up of people with diverse values and ways of living. Having your own axis doesn’t mean rejecting others but instead respecting others’ perspectives while following your own beliefs.

When you have an axis, you can appreciate others’ differences and still maintain your own direction. This embodies Shinto’s spirit of “harmony.” By holding onto your values while living in balance with others, you can build richer relationships.

Finding Purpose in Life through Your Own Axis
Living according to your axis not only brings stability to your daily life but also provides a sense of purpose and meaning to your entire life. In Shinto, rituals and prayers offer opportunities to express gratitude and reflect on oneself. Similarly, having your own axis gives you the chance to regularly reflect on your life, rediscover your purpose, and cultivate gratitude.

Conclusion
Having your own axis is a powerful tool for navigating the complexities of modern life. By learning from Shinto teachings, we can cultivate the strength to face difficulties, respect others, and live in harmony while remaining true to ourselves.

I encourage you to think about your own axis in your daily life. Stay true to your beliefs, no matter the circumstances, and act according to your own values. This could be the first step toward a richer, more fulfilling life.

If this article resonated with you, I invite you to share it with others. Sharing your thoughts and experiences about having your own axis could inspire more people to reflect on themselves and find stability in their lives. Your comments and feedback are also welcome!