From Feb 16–18, ARI hosted a 3-day NVC (Nonviolent Communication) workshop for our staff, led by Nozomi Kuriyama and Mari Saito from NVC Japan Network. Marking our third year of learning NVC, it feels as though we’ve finally stood at the “starting line.”

NVC is a way of connecting that moves beyond judgment or criticism. Instead, it focuses on listening to our “Feelings” and the underlying “Needs”—the things we truly value. As we grow older, it becomes harder to listen to our inner voices, often making it difficult to nurture relationships where everyone’s needs are honored. The journey starts by noticing our own biases and shifting our perspectives. By changing ourselves, our relationships transform, and eventually, so does the world.

The key is to breathe and mindfully savor our true selves. When we connect with our deep needs, we find healing and the joy of acting from the heart.

We look forward to seeing this practice create a ripple effect throughout the ARI community—a cycle of life centered on honoring each other’s true needs.