Category: Awareness
-
Inside Out: Understanding Emotions and Embracing Balance
Read more: Inside Out: Understanding Emotions and Embracing BalanceWe recently watched the movie Inside Out, released in 2015, produced by Pixar Animation Studios for Walt Disney Pictures, and directed by Pete Docter. The sequel was released on streaming platforms recently, and on a recommendation from my wife’s sister, we decided to watch the first installment before diving into the second. The story centers…
-
Bohemian Rhapsody: A Timeless Masterpiece and a Mirror of Society
Read more: Bohemian Rhapsody: A Timeless Masterpiece and a Mirror of SocietyI remember owning the Greatest Hits I & II set from Queen, released in 1994 in France. At the time, I was still in primary school, unfamiliar with the band’s background and with limited understanding of the English language, yet I enjoyed the music immensely. However, like many children, I was impressionable. When peers told…
-
Avengers Endgame: A Decade of Marvel Cinematic Brilliance
Read more: Avengers Endgame: A Decade of Marvel Cinematic BrillianceI went to see Avengers: Endgame, released in 2019, with a French friend also living in Japan who is a big fan of Marvel movies. This film marvelously concludes the Infinity Saga, which began with the first Iron Man movie released in 2008. At three hours long, the movie’s runtime felt anything but lengthy while…
-
Woman: A Journey of Healing and Growth
Read more: Woman: A Journey of Healing and GrowthWe watched the drama Woman a few months ago, my wife and I. My wife admires the main actress, Hikari Mitsushima, and she was eager to share this drama with me as one of her favorites. For those unfamiliar with Japanese dramas, they are typically mini-series of 10 to 12 episodes, broadcast weekly on television.…
-
Rediscovering Balance: Lessons from Climbing and Life
Read more: Rediscovering Balance: Lessons from Climbing and LifeThe end of the year, with Christmas and New Year festivities, often becomes a time of overindulgence in food and drink while neglecting exercise. For many, the cold weather only dampens motivation. However, these are precisely the moments when we should remind ourselves of our daily habits, particularly maintaining fitness. While reflecting on ideas for…
-
How Relationships Shape the Brain: Unlocking Emotional Blind Spots
Read more: How Relationships Shape the Brain: Unlocking Emotional Blind SpotsThe impact of relationships on our emotional and cognitive development is profound, as discussed in a fascinating podcast where Andrew Huberman interviewed Dr. Allan Schore. They explored how relationships shape our brain, particularly emphasizing the role of the right brain in housing our unconscious mind, which governs much of our decision-making. What struck me was…
-
The Gremlins Effect: Self-Awareness, Neuroplasticity, and a Brighter Future
Read more: The Gremlins Effect: Self-Awareness, Neuroplasticity, and a Brighter FutureMerry Christmas! I hope you’re enjoying a wonderful time with family or friends. Even if you’re unable to celebrate, may this season bring you peace and joy. If you have children, I wish you the best as you endure watching the same movie repeatedly with them! Children possess an indomitable will to watch their favorite…
-
Love Hina Christmas Special: A Tale of Romance, Growth, and Brain Health
Read more: Love Hina Christmas Special: A Tale of Romance, Growth, and Brain HealthToday is Christmas Eve, and while Christmas is not a public holiday in Japan, the celebrations and marketing surrounding the occasion are surprisingly vibrant. In 2000, the Love Hina X’Mas Special: Silent Eve was released as a special OVA (Original Video Animation) to mark the festive season. This heartwarming episode brings back all the beloved…
-
Understanding Mental Illness and Society: A Reflection on Change
Read more: Understanding Mental Illness and Society: A Reflection on ChangeI spent a few days with my dad, who lives in France. Ever since I was a kid, I always thought of my dad as someone different and weird, but I never saw him as someone mentally sick or someone who might need help from a psychiatrist. I believed he wasn’t trying his best to…
-
The Unconquerable Spirit: Lessons from Invictus
Read more: The Unconquerable Spirit: Lessons from InvictusToday’s tale reflects on a movie I watched during my flight back to Japan. Invictus, released in 2009, is directed by Clint Eastwood and stars Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela and Matt Damon as Francois Pienaar, the captain of the South African rugby team. The story is based on John Carlin’s 2008 book, Playing the…