One With "Katakori"

One with Katakori

Sometimes you don't notice something because they are too natral in your culture or too natural in your life.

"Kata-kori" is such expression in Japanese that I can't find the equivalent expression English.
Dictionaries say that it means "stiff neck," but it does not seem to translate quite right.

To begin with, "kata" is the Japanese word describing both of shoulders. It has interesting expressions like "kata no ni ga oriru" that literally translates "your burden is now off your shoulder," meaning "one is relieved because your pressure is off."

"Kori" literally translates "stiffness" but it more means the point where something unknown gathered and became one stiff. This is why the verb form "koru" is used to describe a person who is really into some hobby.

"Kata-kori" seems to be quite unique concept in Japanese.
We go to massage take "kori" off. Kids massage their parents when parents ask them to.
The ultimate goodies for having "kata-kori" is you can use it for a good excuse to trip to the hot spa.

"Kori" itself is medically solved problem, thus it is common for any human being. However, because English language lacks such concept, most people do not realize they have one. Maybe only Nintendo geeks and people working in IT industry notice it.

"Kori" is actually the part of your muscle with accumulation of lactic acid.
This acid is side-product of adenosine 5'-triphosphate [ATP]-oxgen reaction within your muscle after your glucose is used up. (Yes, I looked up the dictionary.)

Some theory says that this accumulation is faster in monsoon climate like Tokyo, but I am not sure if it is true.

I did not try to give you the sports chemistry lesson. Only I am saying is you can use this for purchasing ergonomic chair in the office or visiting hot spa on your next get-away. :-)

Therein endth the lesson.