Mindful Maki

5.0 (27)

Hi, I’m James - a psychologist, home cook, sushi-trained and the founder of Mindful Maki.My love for cooking started in childhood, standing beside my mum in the kitchen and learning through the quiet, patient moments we shared. Years later, I discovered sushi making and immediately felt that same sense of presence, calm, and connection. It became more than a craft for me - it became a form of mindfulness.Wanting to honour the tradition properly, I began foundational sushi training under Hideyuki Takahashi, who spent 15 years at the renowned Tokyo Kitcho and later taught at Tokyo Sushi Academy. Under his mentorship, I developed a deep respect for Japanese technique, ingredient care, and the deliberate pacing behind real sushi craft.As a psychologist, I’ve always been fascinated by how shared experiences bring people closer together. That’s what inspired me to blend these worlds - the art of sushi and the science of human connection - into a calming, hands-on ritual that helps people slow down and enjoy the moment.I’ve facilitated team-building workshops for organisations of all sizes, including one with over 150 attendees, and I love guiding people through experiences that help them connect, create, and feel grounded. Teaching is one of my favourite things because it brings together presence, curiosity, and the joy of seeing someone surprise themselves with what they can make.Most people don’t realise how meditative sushi making can be - the sound of washing rice, the quiet focus of slicing fish, the respect behind each small step. My workshops are designed to bring out that slower, more intentional way of cooking while keeping things warm, welcoming, and approachable.Whether you’re joining solo, with a partner, or as a team, my goal is to create an experience that feels genuine, mindful, and memorable - and to help you walk away with a new skill, a calmer mind, and maybe even a deeper connection with the person beside you.Looking forward to making something special together.