The Japanese Imperial Household Agency reported that Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko will not attend the May sumo tournament, scheduled for the 10th at the Ryogoku Kokugikan. The decision is due to Michiko, 91, showing signs of fatigue recently. During her daily walks, the empress stops to catch her breath, so it was decided to avoid unnecessary exertion.
Technology at the service of imperial health 🏥
The Imperial Household Agency constantly monitors the health status of the emeritus couple with portable medical devices and activity sensors. These systems record variables such as heart rate, oxygen saturation, and sleep patterns. The data is analyzed in real-time to anticipate any anomalies. In this case, the sensors detected a decrease in Michiko's physical endurance during her morning walks. The protocol establishes that, upon signs of exhaustion, public events are canceled to preserve her well-being.
Sumo can wait, but the nap cannot 😴
At 91 years old, the empress emerita has decided that watching two sweaty wrestlers push each other is not a priority when the sofa and a blanket call more strongly. While the rikishi prepare for the tournament, Michiko prefers a short walk and a restorative nap. After all, sumo can wait; fatigue cannot. And when you have nine decades behind you, even an imperial greeting can feel like a marathon.