In December 2024, I returned to Japan from Malaysia. My body was severely affected by rheumatoid arthritis. The pain was so intense I couldn’t roll over in bed or even eat properly. I was ready to quit my 24-year career. I was at my limit, both physically and mentally.
The Turning Point
To keep my sanity, I needed to focus on something deeply. I chose to immerse myself in learning English. I just needed to lose myself in the process to forget the pain.
During an online lesson, my teacher recorded the session. Watching it was a wake-up call. I was shocked—not just by signs of aging, but by how much pain and stress had physically changed my face. My face was showing the reality of the extreme tension I was carrying.
Clear evidence of how deeply stress affected my face.
Back to Basics: Anatomy
As a professional, I didn’t search for quick fixes on Google. I went back to my roots: Physiological Anatomy. I reopened my textbooks and studied how chronic stress affects the nerves, lymph, and facial muscles. I have always said, “To change what is visible (the face), you must approach what is invisible.” This experience proved I was right.
I redesigned my method based on these scientific principles and applied them to myself. Slowly, my face began to recover, and my mental clarity returned. I didn’t just get my old face back; I am building a stronger version of it.
Proof of recovery through physiological anatomy.
I can clearly see the difference between before and after. The nasolabial folds, the shape of my face, and most importantly, my expression—everything has changed. It may be hard to believe, but I am wearing the exact same makeup in both photos.
Connecting the Dots
Everything I went through in Malaysia—the hospital visits, the struggle to communicate, the pain—was not a waste. Around Christmas, I started to feel these “dots” finally beginning to connect. My struggle is becoming my strength. It is a gift that is helping me rebuild my career with a deeper, global perspective.
My Message to You
If you are struggling right now, don’t worry about grand goals. Just find one thing to focus on.
I’ve learned that even the most painful trials can turn into gifts if you trust your foundation. I am back. My consulting is back, and I am excited to share what I’ve learned with the world.
Thank you for your support this year. Let’s move forward at our own pace.
