My Journey from Illness to Wellness

Today, I enjoy a healthy and fulfilling life, but it wasn’t always this way. Growing up, I was constantly battling health issues.

I suffered from severe allergic rhinitis since childhood, accompanied by stomach pain, constipation, and anemia. Menstrual cramps were so debilitating that I would often be bedridden. The cycle of visiting doctors and being prescribed medications seemed endless.

At some point, I began to feel a deep sense of urgency about my health. I realized that I needed to address the root causes of my ailments rather than relying on temporary fixes. During this transformative period, I embarked on a working holiday to Australia, where a life-changing encounter awaited me.

Discovering Naturopathy

It was in Australia that I discovered naturopathy, a form of natural medicine that enhances the body’s innate healing ability and aims for holistic, root-cause healing.

Naturopaths, the experts in this field, work to uncover the true causes of health issues through counseling and preventive medical testing. They guide patients toward better health using a holistic approach that includes medical herbs, supplements, and dietary therapy.

When I learned about naturopathy, it instantly resonated with me—I knew this was the path I had to pursue. I decided to study at Southern Cross University, the first university in Australia to introduce naturopathy into its curriculum.

At the time, Southern Cross University did not accept international students directly for this program. To overcome this hurdle, I first enrolled in a partner institution, the Academy of Natural Therapies, to earn the necessary credits for transfer.

After a brief return to Japan to save for my studies, I headed back to Australia, determined to turn my newfound passion into a lifelong career.

When You Truly Commit, Anything Is Possible

Determined to pursue my dream, I arrived in Australia, only to be met with one of the most challenging journeys of my life. Naturopathy is a demanding field, known even among Australians as one of the toughest disciplines to complete. As a non-native English speaker, I faced additional hurdles, often struggling to keep up with the coursework.

I spent countless days and nights immersed in study, often in tears, but my hard work paid off. I successfully earned my Advanced Diploma, a crucial milestone that allowed me to apply for a transfer to Southern Cross University, where I had always dreamed of completing my studies.

However, my hopes were dashed when the university informed me that international students could not transfer due to visa restrictions. The system only allowed Australian citizens or permanent residents to enroll in the program through a correspondence course. I was devastated—three years of intense effort seemed to have been for nothing.

But I refused to give up. I wrote an impassioned email to the head of the naturopathy department, Professor Paul Orrock, expressing my determination and desire to pursue my studies. To my delight, he responded with a solution: the university would create a special curriculum tailored for international students.

This made me the first-ever international student to transfer into Southern Cross University’s naturopathy program. Two years later, I graduated with a degree in naturopathy, achieving the goal I had worked so hard for.

I firmly believe that most of the limitations we face are human-made, and with unwavering determination and persistence, anything is possible. This belief continues to guide me in every endeavor I undertake.

As a naturopath 

Studying naturopathy brought profound changes to my own long-standing health issues. By understanding the impacts of gluten intolerance, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and stress on the body, I transformed my diet and lifestyle. The chronic ailments that had plagued me for years gradually disappeared.

After graduating, I began practicing as a naturopath, offering consultations to clients. Drawing from my personal experiences, I focused on allergies and gastrointestinal disorders, which allowed me to connect deeply with my clients. Over the years, I have helped improve the health of approximately 1,000 individuals, ranging from adults to young children.

In 2012, I established a company dedicated to selling essential supplements and natural cosmetics for maintaining health. Later, in 2016, I founded another company specializing in the production of organic herbal products.

Having lived in Australia for many years, I am passionate about contributing to the quality of life for Japanese people. Each time I return to Japan, I find myself questioning whether the quality of life for its citizens is truly improving. While health is essential for enhancing quality of life, I have noticed an increasing number of people struggling with physical and mental health issues, as well as persistent ailments that cause worry and anxiety.

Naturopaths are professionals in health and wellness. I aim to spread the knowledge of naturopathy in Japan and contribute to improving the quality of life for Japanese people. That is my mission and my heartfelt wish.