Kindred Spirits?

The guests for the third talk show on February 12th were Toyohiro Akiyama, astronaut, journalist, and farmer, and Maki Ohashi, aromatherapist and aroma space designer.

Ohashi, who researches aromatherapy and is also interested in space, and Akiyama, who has experienced space firsthand. Furthermore, Akiyama farms in Fukushima Prefecture, while Ohashi resides in the verdant town of Hayama. Both live close to nature, and they also share common ground, such as having worked for television stations. They seemed to have much in common.

BMW Studio ONE | Akiyama and Ohashi await their turn

BMW Studio ONE | Robert Harris, Akiyama, and Ohashi

A Transition to a New World

There wasn't just one reason for Akiyama becoming a farmer, but his experience in space had a significant impact. The purpose of Akiyama's space mission in 1990 was to consider the Earth's environment. He recalls seeing Earth from space as truly beautiful, a sphere teeming with life. However, he began to seriously contemplate his own future path. Despite his mission being about reporting to consider better lifestyles for humanity, he started to feel a disconnect with his own life, which continued without regard for day or night. As a result, he decided to acquire at least the ability to grow his own food and began farming in Fukushima Prefecture.

Similarly, Ohashi, who led a busy life as a TV announcer, also found that questioning her previous lifestyle was the catalyst for entering the world of aromatherapy. While her job involved communication, the relentless pace left her feeling numb, unable to truly connect with what she was conveying. It was during a press interview that she encountered aromatherapy. The sensation of the therapist's touch was incredibly gentle, making her realize that communication exists beyond words. She then began studying aromatherapy. In parallel, she became interested in “connecting” – people to people, things to things, places to places, and eras to eras. Even after leaving her job, she continued her own research. Through these encounters, she became involved with “space,” realizing that space holds fundamental elements shared by all humanity, and she continues her research to this day.

BMW Studio ONE | Ohashi, relaxed throughout

BMW Studio ONE | Akiyama shares fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from space

Your Own Yardstick

The common ground for both of them regarding sustainability is the importance of having one's own yardstick. It’s about thoroughly digesting current information and making your own judgments. Both arrived at their current lifestyles after deeply contemplating how they wanted to live and what they wanted to do. Sustainability is not the primary goal, but rather a consequence of the process of living authentically.

Their philosophies are reflected in the sustainable luggage on display. Akiyama's book selection includes titles related to agriculture, fitting for his profession, and works on the theme of “human consciousness.” These selections serve as a prompt to consider whether our own thoughts are truly our own or have been imprinted by others.

Ohashi, on the other hand, recommends "Sense of Wonder." This choice is particularly fitting for Ohashi, who lives with her two-year-old daughter and finds that life with a child is the most sustainable way of living. She explained that sustainability involves imagination and a deep connection with one's inner state, requiring a "sense of wonder."

BMW Studio ONE | Akiyama's book selection

BMW Studio ONE | Ohashi's book selection

BMW Studio ONE | "Primavera," a fragrance produced by Ohashi

BMW Studio ONE | A pleasant atmosphere created by aroma in the venue?

This talk show left a deep impression, with Akiyama's compelling narrative backed by his experience and knowledge, and Ohashi's natural way of living resonating with the audience. Aided perhaps by the aroma orchestrated by Ohashi, the venue seemed to be filled with a wonderful atmosphere that day.

Inquiries: BMW Customer Support 0120-55-3578 (Open daily 9:00-20:00)