Hello, this is NIFS!
2008-02-22

[Seasonal Life Tips / Washing your hands and gargling to prevent a cold]

Colds are very contagious. In order to prevent getting and giving them, wash your hands with soap and gargle as soon as you get home. Also, keeping properly warm is said to be effective to prevent a cold. Be careful not to keep too warm though!

[Nara Lifestyle Guide / (Preparation for the new school term]
http://www.nifs.or.jp/mobile/eng/guide/childcare/childcare02.html

[Ask a Foreigner: What I like about Nara living / The spirit of Kendo -1-]

I am Brazilian and my parents are from Japan. One of Japan’s traditions that really appeals to me is the [Spirit of kendo], which I learned through my son’s kendo instructor (sensei). This man teaches kendo to school kids at our local community center. He is famous not only as a good instructor, but also as a strict one. My son has held an interest in this kendo class since he was a primary school student, but only decided to join once he entered the kendo club in junior high school. This instructor has a strict mood and has a strong dignity about him, yet can’t be said to be an affable type of person. Nonetheless, a lot of children like him. Even when it is no longer possible to practice with him due to starting high school, they often visit him and talk with him about their lives.