A man in a tank top and muay thai shorts crouches in a stance on a busy street, looking intently at the camera.

"I reckon it's a bit like being thrown into the deep end when you first step into that ring, you know? Life’s been throwing punches all year, but here I am, standing. Moved to Bangkok about six months back; it’s been a whirlwind. Working as a graphic designer by day, and by night, I’m at the gym, learning Muay Thai. It’s not just a sport; it’s like... it’s like finding balance, learning to stand firm. My coach, Ajarn Somchai, he’s this old-school guy, all about discipline and respect—kinda tough love, you might say. Makes a mean green curry too, laughs every time I ask for the recipe. Breakfast is usually something quick, local—like khao neow, sticky rice with mango, or on rough days, just strong coffee and maybe some pandan cake. Lunch is at this little place near work; their pad thai? Legendary. I’ve been trying to eat healthier, you know, more greens, less grease, but then there’s street food on every corner, and it’s hard to say no. Dinner, now that’s where I try to cook, something about slicing up veggies and grilling chicken just unwinds me. But Fridays? Fridays are for indulging. There’s this tiny spot by the Chao Phraya River, serves the best tom yum soup you’ve ever tasted, spicy enough to kick any stress away. Yeah, life’s not without its challenges. Had a bit of a rough patch with the family back home recently, temperaments clashing, but we’re getting there. And relationships? Well, let’s just say, it’s complicated. But through all this, I've found something that sticks—Muay Thai, the routine, the rawness of it, it’s grounding. It’s taught me a lot about pushing through, taking the hits and just... moving forward. And at the end of the day, when I can just sit, enjoy a plate of mango sticky rice, and look out at the city? Feels like I can breathe, you know. Just breathe and be ready for whatever’s next."