How Japanese Philosophy Shapes Sanae Ishida’s Art, Books, and Life

In the newest episode of The Samurai Way podcast, I’m honored to welcome a gifted artist, author, and creative spirit — Sanae Ishida. If you've ever wondered how to live and create more intentionally, with grace and soulfulness, this episode is for you.

Sanae is a self-proclaimed “maker of many things,” from children’s books like Little Kunoichi to handmade clothing, and she infuses all of it with deep cultural insight and heartfelt intention. With roots in Japan and a creative life in Seattle, she bridges two worlds beautifully — American and Japanese — and shares how her life and work are shaped by timeless Japanese values.

A Lifelong Practice of Journaling and Inner Listening

Sanae shares that she’s been journaling daily for over 30 years. But this isn’t just a writing habit — it’s a spiritual practice. Through journaling, she listens to her intuition, sorts through emotions, and finds clarity. It’s also where many of her book ideas are born.

She explains how this process is less about perfection and more about presence. “I allow myself to not worry about grammar or results. It’s about tuning in.” This “tuning in” is something we can all relate to — the quiet voice that knows what we truly need.

Embracing Shugyō — Mastery Through Devoted Practice

We also talked about shugyō, a Japanese concept that means intense, focused training with the aim of mastery. Sanae weaves this into her beloved character Little Kunoichi, a tiny ninja girl who trains “like crazy” not to win but to grow.

As Sanae puts it, “It’s not about hustle culture. It’s about intentional practice without clinging to the outcome.” Whether she's sewing jeans or creating art, she’s learned that joy comes when we let go of expectations and stay present with the process.

Letting Go of Results and Trusting the Journey

Sanae shared a moving story about sewing jeans — first for herself, then for her daughter. The first pair, made with joy and curiosity, turned out great. But when she tried to make the second pair perfect for her daughter, anxiety crept in and the joy vanished. It’s a lesson we all need: focus on the process, not just the result.

A Deep Connection to Culture and Creativity

We also explore how her Japanese heritage continues to inform her creative life. From translating craft books to writing stories rooted in Japanese themes like ninjas, samurai, and grandmothers with quiet strength — Sanae honors her cultural roots with every brushstroke and word.

She beautifully says, “I wanted to want my life. Not someone else’s. And now, I’m living that.”

Tune In to Be Inspired

Whether you’re an artist, writer, parent, or someone seeking purpose, this episode will encourage you to trust your inner voice and live with intention. We talk about everything from embracing who you are, to connecting with your roots, and living fully in the creative flow.

🖌️ Discover Sanae’s work: sanaeishida.com📚 Check out her children’s books: Little Kunoichi, Ninja Grandma, and the new Goodnight Ninjas coming this August!

🎧 Listen now to this heartwarming episode on The Samurai Way — and let your intuition lead the way.