A New Form of Society Starting from English Lessons in Nara

Our company supports April Dream, an initiative that turns April 1st into a day for sharing dreams. This press release outlines the dream of 'English Conversation Deer.'

The dream of English Conversation Deer is to create a society originating from Nara where 'creating connections through English conversation adds color to daily life and leads to the prevention of dementia and other conditions.'

People start learning English for various reasons: travel, work, or taking on a new challenge. However, what you gain through lessons is more than just 'English proficiency.' Conversations with instructors, meeting peers interested in English, and the ability to speak English expand communication with foreigners. English conversation gives birth to 'connections' with people you might never have met otherwise.

These connections lead to positive changes in daily life, such as 'looking forward to feeling growth' or 'having a rhythm in life through time spent talking with someone.' We feel a great potential in this change.

In recent years, social isolation and reduced opportunities for conversation have been highlighted as risk factors for dementia. On the other hand, multiple studies suggest that 'brain-using activities' and 'social interaction,' such as foreign language learning and conversation, may have a positive impact on maintaining cognitive function. For example, research from York University in Canada and other institutions has reported that bilingual people tend to delay the onset of dementia by several years on average compared to those who are not. Social interaction itself is also considered a factor that stimulates the brain and slows the decline of cognitive function.

English conversation is a highly sophisticated brain activity that involves 'thinking,' 'speaking,' and 'listening' simultaneously. Furthermore, adding human communication makes it a 'habit that can be continued while having fun.'

At English Conversation Deer, we provide an environment where even English beginners can enjoy conversation with peace of mind in the relaxed space of a cafe. What we aim for is not just a place for language learning. We want to be a 'place that gives zest to life,' where people meet, connect, and their hearts are moved through conversation, adding small joys to their daily lives. We hope that the accumulation of these moments will result in a society where people live healthy, positive lives and prevent conditions like dementia.

This dream cannot be achieved simply by increasing the number of people who can speak English. It requires expanding an environment where people interact and conversation is born. We want to take that first step from a cafe in Nara. English Conversation Deer will continue to strive to create a place that generates 'human connections' while supporting English beginners.