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, having recently shown signs of fatigue. 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 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 dictates that, upon signs of exhaustion, public events are canceled to preserve their well-being.
Sumo can wait, but a nap cannot 😴
At 91, 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.