George Ohsawa, Japanese founder of the Macrobiotic diet (b. 1893)

George Ohsawa, born Nyoichi Sakurazawa (櫻澤 如一), was a truly visionary figure whose life, spanning from October 18, 1893, to April 23, 1966, profoundly influenced global health perspectives. He is widely recognized as the original founder and popularizer of the macrobiotic diet, a philosophy that extends far beyond mere dietary recommendations, encompassing a holistic approach to life.

The Genesis of Macrobiotics

Ohsawa's journey into what would become the macrobiotic way of life was deeply personal, reportedly stemming from his own battles with illness in his youth. Drawing inspiration from traditional East Asian philosophies, particularly the principles of yin and yang, he developed a system centered on balancing the body through whole foods, natural living, and a thoughtful understanding of one's environment. The macrobiotic diet, in its essence, promotes consuming whole grains, vegetables, beans, and certain sea vegetables, while minimizing processed foods, meat, and dairy, all aimed at fostering physical, mental, and spiritual harmony.

An International Figure and Prolific Author

As Ohsawa's ideas evolved, he became determined to share them with the world. During his significant time spent living and teaching in Europe, he adopted various pen names such as Musagendo Sakurazawa, Nyoiti Sakurazawa, and Yukikazu Sakurazawa. This practice, common among intellectuals and philosophers of his era, likely served to distinguish his different phases of teaching, perhaps to connect with diverse audiences, or simply to express different facets of his evolving identity. While residing in France, he also embraced the French first name Georges, a testament to his adaptability and commitment to cultural immersion, which is why his name is sometimes spelled "Georges" in Western contexts. His dedication to disseminating his philosophy was immense, evidenced by his prolific writing; he authored an astonishing approximately 300 books in Japanese and an additional 20 in French, covering not only diet but also philosophy, health, and a comprehensive way of living.

Ohsawa's Holistic Definition of Health

Beyond specific dietary guidelines, Ohsawa articulated a profound and comprehensive vision of what it truly means to be healthy. He defined health not merely as the absence of illness, but as a dynamic state of balance and vitality, characterized by seven interconnected criteria:

• Lack of fatigue: A state of sustained energy and vigor, indicating a body and mind in balance.
• Good appetite: A natural, unadulterated desire for wholesome food, signaling healthy digestion and metabolic function.
• Good sleep: Restorative and deep sleep that rejuvenates the body and mind, crucial for overall well-being.
• Good memory: A sharp, clear, and reliable memory, reflecting cognitive vitality and mental clarity.
• Good humour: A cheerful disposition and an optimistic outlook, highlighting emotional resilience and inner peace.
• Precision of thought and action: The ability to think clearly, make sound decisions, and execute actions with accuracy and efficiency.
• Gratitude: A deep and abiding appreciation for life, fostering spiritual harmony and contentment.

These criteria underscore the holistic nature of his philosophy, emphasizing that true health encompasses physical vitality, mental acuity, emotional balance, and spiritual appreciation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was George Ohsawa?

George Ohsawa, born Nyoichi Sakurazawa, was a Japanese philosopher, educator, and the founder of the macrobiotic diet and lifestyle. He lived from 1893 to 1966 and is renowned for his holistic health philosophy.

What is the macrobiotic diet?

The macrobiotic diet is a holistic approach to eating and living developed by Ohsawa. It emphasizes whole, natural foods, primarily whole grains, vegetables, and beans, consumed in balance according to yin and yang principles, aiming for physical, mental, and spiritual harmony.

Why did George Ohsawa use different names?

During his time in Europe, George Ohsawa used several pen names, such as Musagendo Sakurazawa and Nyoiti Sakurazawa, which was a common practice for intellectuals spreading new ideas. He also adopted the French first name Georges while living in France, demonstrating his cultural adaptability and efforts to connect with a Western audience.

How many books did George Ohsawa write?

George Ohsawa was a prolific writer, authoring approximately 300 books in Japanese and an additional 20 in French, covering a wide range of topics related to his macrobiotic philosophy, health, and lifestyle.

What were George Ohsawa's seven criteria for health?

Ohsawa defined health based on seven comprehensive criteria: a lack of fatigue, a good appetite, good sleep, good memory, good humour, precision of thought and action, and a deep sense of gratitude. These criteria highlight his holistic view of well-being.