The Journey of the Wounding Heart：Trauma Healing Therapy in the Novel <i>Malika’s Sofa</i> by Yoshimoto Banana

Abstract

Yoshimoto Banana’s novels are referred to as ‘self-help’ literature. As a result of Yoshimoto’s impactful role in literature, it has the power to be of use in self-healing. One of them is Yoshimoto Banana’s novel which describes the search for meaning within oneself by reconnecting with nature called <i>Marika no Sofa</i> (Malika’s Sofa). This novel tells the story of a female doctor named Junko sensei and Malika, her patient who has many personalities. The symptoms of DID (Dissociative Identity Disorder) are shown by Yoshimoto in this novel, and it shows an interesting part that is highlighted how Yoshimoto offers a method of trauma healing by traveling and dialogue. In addition, in this study, the friendship connection and empathy emotion between the therapist and her patient are seen from the <i>imago dialogue</i> approach in Alfred Adler’s therapy. And then, followed by the natural therapy method using green trees approach. The researcher chose to use the concept of <i>shinrin yoku</i> (forest bathing), which is an immersion in the natural surroundings to have a good physiological effect and provide relaxation on the mind and body. Junko sensei and Malika’s trip to Bali can also be interpreted as a desire (motivation) to leave old wounds in the healing stage. Both of them rediscovered something that had been missing in their lives for a long time, it is to feel and live a full life like humans.