Being an expat in Japan can feel isolating, especially at this time year. Missing holiday traditions, old friends, and family often intensify feelings of loneliness and longing for deeper connections. Even though we are surrounded by people every day, we can still feel disconnected. Making deep, meaningful connections can be one of the more emotionally…

We all have an inner voice, and sometimes it becomes a constant stream of comments and criticism about what we do, how we feel, and how we think. This voice can become our harshest critic, hitting where it hurts the most. When negative self-talk takes over, it can distort reality, fuel anxiety, and chip away…

Struggling with anxiety is often a hidden battle. We often do a god job of hiding anxiety and looking like we have everything under control. We get up, go to work, meet deadlines, and keep our commitments. We smile, make small talk, and help others when they’re struggling. But inside, there’s a constant hum of…