Rila Fukushima Reflects On Acupuncture School Days
A nostalgic journey through hardships, laughs, and growth in acupuncture training indeed!
Poulami is an associate editor. She did her MA in English from Miranda House, University of Delhi and has qualified UGC-NET. She also holds a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her journey as a content writer began in 2017 and since then, Poulami has garnered diverse interests along the way.
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Rila Fukushima, widely known for her work in film and fashion, has offered her fans a glimpse into a less-publicized chapter of her life—her time as an acupuncture student. In a recent nostalgic post, Fukushima shares a candid look at the challenges and humorous moments that defined her apprenticeship, revealing the determination and resilience required to balance a demanding work schedule with ongoing studies.
Passion And Perseverance In A New Chapter
Working part-time at an acupuncture clinic while enrolling in a rigorous acupuncture school for one and a half years was no small feat. Fukushima recounts how she managed early morning classes from Monday to Friday while also honing her skills as an apprentice. Returning to school as an adult meant facing challenges that went far beyond textbooks—with each day demanding extra grit and focus. Her heartfelt tribute includes a special note of gratitude to her parents, whose financial support for her tuition remains a cherished memory.
Classroom Memories And Lighthearted Laughter
Beyond the academic rigors, Fukushima’s post is filled with humorous snapshots of her classroom life. Fondly nicknamed “福ちゃん” or “お福” by her peers, she reminisces about the simple pleasures of after-school classes—like watching the way light danced off desks and reflecting on the beauty of everyday scenes. One particularly humorous recollection details how she once dozed off during class, resulting in a hairstyle that humorously reminded her of the famed boxing manga hero “Ashita no Joe.” The memory of nervously calling a classmate before an exam, even shedding a few tears over being unable to cram, reflects both the vulnerability and the camaraderie that marked her school life.
The sudden shift to Zoom classes during the COVID-19 pandemic added another layer of unpredictability. Fukushima recalls an incident when a technical glitch transformed her computer screen into a playful, exaggerated interpretation of the Eastern philosophy of the “Tennin Gōitsu” (the unity of heaven and man). Captured in a screenshot by a classmate, this moment not only highlights the awkward challenges of online learning but also demonstrates how even difficulties can be met with humor.
Exploring Diverse Healing Traditions
Fukushima’s narrative also touches on the depth of her academic journey. While her school primarily taught Japanese-style acupuncture (和鍼), she acknowledges the existence of Korean (韓国鍼) and Chinese (中国鍼) techniques. There’s a brief mention of her heading toward a Chinese acupuncture training center, underscoring her desire to understand a broader spectrum of Eastern medicine. The post interweaves her studies in anatomy, physiology, and even the traditional theory of meridians (経絡), illustrating that her time at school was as much about learning the cultural history of these techniques as it was about mastering them.
Setbacks And Scenic Inspirations
No journey is without its setbacks. Fukushima candidly remembers the day when film shoots in Switzerland extended longer than expected, resulting in insufficient attendance and the painful decision of having to repeat a year. Standing before the majestic Alps, she experienced a mix of disappointment and wonder. Even in the midst of academic setback—a moment marked by the sting of forced “留年”—the breathtaking Swiss scenery offered solace. Describing it as one of the most memorable periods of her life, Fukushima’s reflection underscores the idea that beauty and learning often coexist, even in challenging circumstances.
Reflections And Aspirations For The Future
Throughout her post, Fukushima weaves together personal sacrifice, humor, and heartfelt gratitude. Her memories of late-night cramming sessions, unexpected Zoom mishaps, and moments of shared laughter with classmates paint a picture of a formative time that, while challenging, built the resilience she carries today. Significantly, her acknowledgment of the simple joys—like an after-school view or a kind gesture from a friend—highlights the importance of cherishing even the most ordinary moments.
In closing, Fukushima’s reflective message is not just a trip down memory lane; it is an affirmation of her commitment to lifelong learning and self-improvement. With a promise to resume her studies in the future and an unwavering focus on health, she reminds us that every setback can be a stepping stone to growth. This honest and humorous account from her acupuncture school days offers fans a rare peek into the backstory of a celebrity who has always balanced her public success with personal evolution.
Fukushima’s blend of academic rigor, cultural curiosity, and playful self-deprecation makes for an inspiring story. Her reminiscences serve as both a tribute to her past and a motivator for anyone facing the everyday struggles of balancing work, study, and personal commitments. It is a story of resilience, laughter, and the enduring value of gratitude—a timeless reminder that every challenge carries the seed of new beginnings.
Signed off from Tokyo in May 2025, this throwback post not only connects her past with her present but also sets the stage for future endeavors built on the lessons of her early days in acupuncture school.
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