Breath, Voice, and Presence: A Transformative Sound Journey with Zen Priest Yogetsu Akasaka

You’re invited to a participatory sound journey and breathwork experience led by Yogetsu Akasaka — Zen Buddhist priest, globally recognized live-looping artist, and meditation musician. We’ll open with a fireside chat on Yogetsu’s journey in seeking truth and purpose, and his perspective on these enduring human values in an age of technological change. A unique figure in both the music and spiritual worlds, Yogetsu has performed at renowned music festivals and wellness conferences across the globe — including as an official artist at SXSW and a featured performer for NASA’s keynote event. His viral video “Heart Sutra Beatbox Remix” has reached over 7 million views on YouTube, introducing ancient wisdom to modern audiences through a breathtaking fusion of tradition and innovation. This is not just a performance — it’s a guided, participatory experience. Through breath, voice, and sound, you’ll be invited into a collective practice that cultivates stillness, presence, and personal insight. Rooted in the Zen philosophy of Ichigo Ichie — the idea that every moment is unrepeatable — Yogetsu’s work is an improvised, one-time-only journey that invites each participant into their own inner transformation. Whether you’re a founder, creative, or simply someone seeking clarity, balance, or a deeper sense of connection, this experience offers an opportunity to pause, reset, and remember what truly matters. Many participants describe effects such as emotional release, unexpected clarity, relief from chronic physical pain, or even spiritual connection — moments that leave lasting impact well beyond the session. Yogetsu’s unique fusion of ancient ritual, modern sound, and somatic awareness opens a doorway to embodied spirituality, healing, and personal awakening. What to bring: An eye mask, a yoga mat or cushion to sit on, and an optional blanket for comfort. Doors open at 1:50 and close at 2:10 — please arrive on time. This event is hosted by Ashley Zhang, who writes Soft Power, a publication on how humans can live fully and freely in the age of AI. It is sponsored by Imbue, a company working to empower humans by creating tools that make software creation accessible to everyone.