A serial feature proposing new solutions for the various challenges of mind and body that one faces precisely because they have become an adult.

In my fifties, I began to notice my "HP" decreasing.

For those who have played RPGs (Role-Playing Games) like "Dragon Quest" or "Final Fantasy," HP (Hit Points) represent a character's "stamina and vitality" level within the game.

One day, while showering, I looked in the mirror and realized that my hair had turned gray, my muscles had weakened, and my body shape had changed. While the degree varies from person to person, no one can stop the inevitable decline in HP as they age.

"I think this would suit you."

The other day, when I visited a friend's house, he took a coat from his closet. It was a Yohji Yamamoto coat made of wool, with a charming design around the collar.

He offered it to me, saying, "Won't you try it on?" As I took the coat, I hesitated slightly.

This was because I had never worn Yohji Yamamoto before, always believing that I couldn't pull off their unique designs—like pants with a creative silhouette that resemble skirts, long shirts that seem to envelop you in air, or asymmetrical jackets—which are instantly recognizable as Yohji Yamamoto.

As my friend encouraged me, I put on the coat. Looking at my reflection in the large mirror by the entrance, I saw a completely different person than I had imagined—a self I had never seen before.

"Did my 'MP' just go up?"

In RPGs, besides HP, there's another indicator of a game character's individuality: MP (Magic Points), which measures the ability to use "magic" or "spells." Leveling up HP and MP is crucial for overcoming the numerous challenges encountered on a game's journey.

Seeing myself, who had gained MP by wearing Yohji Yamamoto, I felt that my potential was far from exhausted.

As we continue our life's journey, it's inevitable that our HP decreases with age. However, by increasing our MP, we can achieve a net zero compared to our younger selves. Even if our physical strength wanes, we can still navigate our own unique path by utilizing the skills (magic or spells) gained from our knowledge and experiences.

Looking at the new me in the mirror, clad in Yohji Yamamoto, I contemplated these thoughts.

Not long after that day, my closet now features a dedicated Yohji Yamamoto section.

Doctor jackets, drape shirts, wrap pants, balloon pants. While these might be standard items for long-time Yohji fans, for me, a beginner, this is a good starting point.

Walking through the city in these uniquely designed garments still carries a slight sense of self-consciousness, but I'm ready to maximize my MP with Yohji Yamamoto and embark on new adventures.

Kenta Akiyoshi
Editor and Media Producer | Born in 1969. Previously served as editor-in-chief of "Tokyo Walker" and various web media. Currently writes as a Yahoo! News Expert, is involved in the planning and operation of the YouTube channel "Yoshiida Rui Channel," and contributes to projects like "Kokoro Basho" by Seikou Ito and Gen N. Hoshino. Hosts the regular coffee and talk event "COFFEEDIT" in Harajuku.