Bryan Rill – Department of Anthropology, Florida State University
Fulbright-Hays Award - Research Statement

My research in Japan examines the phenomena of shugyo in Shugendo mountain pilgrimages and in the martial art Aikido. Shugyo is a set of ascetic practices through which practitioners attain and enhance spiritual power for pragmatic purposes. My work focuses on the phenomenal experience of shugyo and the construction of meaning. I theorize that such practices are a form of holistic healing, empowering individuals to lead more meaningful lives.

My project charts how participants think of, feel, and manage spiritual power in their lives. In that I document the process of empowerment and its application, I collapse the dualisms of mind vs. body, ritual vs. everyday life, and esoteric vs. pragmatic.

Currently I live in Kumano, a majestic area considered the heart of Buddhism in Japan. After seeing and participating in these practices, my research has evolved to incorporate visual ethnography. Working in collaboration with temples and practitioners, I plan to create a multimedia documentary that illuminates the connection between this sacred land, shugyo, and its contemporary meanings.

The Fulbright-Hays is an honor that comes after years of hard work and dedication. In light of the recent loss of my father while away in the field, this comes as a miracle in a difficult times. I am most grateful for this award and my university and the Anthropology Department for helping create this opportunity. The $40000 grant will allow me to retire from my full-time teaching position and devote myself fully to dissertation research. I plan to finish writing in the Summer 2010.