Move that Stress Away!

Posted on 05/09/2023 Last updated on 01/11/2024

“For a new year to bring you something new, make a move, like a butterfly tearing its cocoon! Make a move!”
-Mehmet Murat ildan (Turkish playwright)

A new beginning in a foreign land such as Japan is exciting and relocation moves can be stressful. I would like to stress in a healthy way, the importance of keeping one’s health in mind as well as body. The primary health concern to both mind and body: is failure in recognizing negative stress.

Japanese White Heron photo in Musashimurayama City, Tokyo

As a fellow adventurer in this captivating land, I would like to share some hidden gems on reducing negative stress. More than likely, your abode will be in a local area in commuting distance to your schools. Activate your maps app and begin your adventure with a local search. Onward!

Start exploring your local neighborhood with a 20-minute stroll away from the city and perhaps you may encounter a secret walking/bicycling path near a tucked away park that has been forgotten about before your discovery. I happened per chance to come across a Japanese White Heron casting its shadow as I was on a stroll nearby my house.

Taking the White Heron as an omen, I followed along its path and came upon a shopping mall. I was pleasantly surprised by a digitized aquarium projected by an AI program hidden within the mall. Two stress reducing events which began from a healthy stroll in my local neighborhood. I have discovered once again in Japan that gems are still to be found.

Now in full command of the maps app, one can venture off on a leisurely train ride to a destination such as Okutama (left side) and Mt. Mitake (right side). Both destinations are a pleasant train ride.

Nowadays, everyone can take picturesque photos while enjoying the moments of a beautiful day year round. Walking around these destinations there are vending machines offering drinks both hot and cold in the winter months.

Lastly, my hope is everyone can take advantage of stress reducing activities that are local gems waiting to be discovered. Remember to start local and eventually venture out with technology in hand. Take advantage of the free parks and low cost train fares to the destinations mentioned in this article. May you be as lucky as I were in commuting to your schools with days full of rainbows.