On Thursday, August 7, the Junior High School Baseball Club hosted a “Conditioning-Up Seminar” with guest instructor Mr. Yoshitomo Ogawa from Nozomi Osteopathic Clinic. This meaningful opportunity was made possible thanks to a connection formed during the team’s “Christmas Cleanup” volunteer activity held last winter. It became a highly valuable learning experience for all the students.

The seminar began with an introduction to Nozomi Osteopathic Clinic’s mission and philosophy. One concept that resonated deeply with students was the “Hakka Principle,” a warmhearted idea explained as follows:

When someone does something kind for you, it’s only natural to want to return the favor. The Hakka Principle encourages taking that feeling a step further by passing kindness on to someone else, creating a society filled with goodwill.

This spirit of “on-okuri” (paying kindness forward) deeply moved the students. Mr. Ogawa also gifted the team a book, and the players were inspired by the message, realizing the importance of carrying forward the goodwill they had received.

Using photos submitted in advance, Mr. Ogawa conducted AI-based posture analyses and clearly explained the results. By understanding how poor posture affects performance and everyday life, students gained new awareness about how they use their bodies.

Following the analysis, the students participated in core training exercises. They reflected on how each movement influenced their posture and strength, allowing them to better connect the seminar’s content with their daily training.

In the final portion of the seminar, a few students received mini osteopathic treatments. After the sessions, many shared comments like, “My body feels lighter,” and “I feel like I’m standing straighter,” showing an increased awareness of their physical condition.

After the seminar, students expressed a desire to become people who can “repay and pass on” kindness through their plays and daily actions. They aim to reflect what they’ve learned about posture, gratitude, and human connection in their everyday training.