In the journey of life there are weeks when nothing happens and then there are days in which weeks happen! This weekend was quite same when I got to know about a quiet corner of the world, nestled among the lush hills of Okinawa, Japan, there lies a community known for an extraordinary distinction: its people live longer, happier lives than nearly anywhere else on Earth. What is their secret? Is it their food, their habits, their social connections—or something deeper, something more profound? The Japanese call it *ikigai* (ηγη²ζ)—
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| Meaning of Ikigai |
The meaning of Ikigai:
A word that has no direct translation but carries a meaning
powerful enough to transform lives. It refers to one’s reason for being, the
joy found in living with purpose, and the subtle harmony between what you love,
what you're good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. This
book is a journey into the heart of *ikigai*. Drawing from centuries-old
wisdom, firsthand interviews with the elders of Okinawa, and modern
psychological research, it explores how embracing this philosophy can lead to a
more fulfilling, vibrant life—no matter where you are or how old you may be.
Whether you’re seeking clarity, longevity, or simply more joy in the everyday,
the path of *ikigai* offers a timeless compass.
Ikigai Principles:
Stay Active and don’t retire:
Those who give up things they love, may lose the purpose in
life. It is a need to be engaged in the work that fills you up with good spirit
a thing that you love and is beneficial for others. Keep doing things that
value, making progress, bringing beauty or utility to others, helping us to
shape the world around us.
Take it Slow:
Being in hurry is inversely proportion to quality of life.
Like the old saying walk slowly and you’ll go far. Try leaving urgency behind,
you’ll find your life and time taking new meaning all together.
Don’t fill your stomach:
Less is more when it comes to eating for good life. It points
out to 80 percent rule, which says to stay healthier longer, we should eat a little
less than our hunger.
Surround yourself with good friends:
Sense of community is strongly ingrained in the minds of the
Japanese culture, they believe in sharing stories that brighten our day,
getting advice, having fun and living happy.
Reconnect with nature:
Though most people live in cities these days, we as a human
are made to be a part of the natural world. It is always advisable to return to
it more often to recharge out batteries.
Give thanks:
Always be filled with gratitude towards your ancestors,
nature, which provides you with air, food, friend, family. Spend time every day
to give thanks, and you’ll watch your stockpile of happiness grow.
Live in a moment:
Stop regretting the past and fearing the future, today is
all you have. Make the most of it. Make it worth remembering.
Finding your ikigai:
There is a passion inside us, a unique talent that gives
meaning to our life, which drives you to work on to become the best version of
yourselves. That is you Ikigai, try finding it and continue doing till your
last breath keep refining till you are at your best. In short, that should be
the Ikigai for us!
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