Ancient Japanese Wisdom That Will Change Your Life
In a world where stress and the pressure to succeed can be overwhelming, many people are searching for happiness and a more meaningful life. Enter the Japanese concept of Ikigai, which means
“iki” meaning “to live,” and “gai” meaning “reason,” which translates to “a reason to live.”
In their international bestseller, Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles share the secrets of Ikigai from the centenarians of Japan’s blue zones. This philosophy teaches people to find their true purpose in life, which brings satisfaction, happiness, and meaning that can lead to a longer lifespan.
According to recent research, the average life expectancy in Japan is 84 years, one of the highest in the world, and one of the reasons is attributed to the Ikigai philosophy. The book highlights several key lessons to help readers understand this philosophy and find their own Ikigai:
The Art of Staying Young: Secrets to Longevity
People in Okinawa, Japan, one of the world’s blue zones, live a longer and happier life by following a lifestyle of being connected to their community, following their purpose, and maintaining good health. Unlike people in the West, the Japanese don’t have a term for retirement, with most continuing to work on their Ikigai as long as they can.
Eating Until You’re Almost Full
The Japanese have a saying, “hara hachi bu,” which means filling your belly 80%. People in Okinawa stop eating when their stomachs reach 80% capacity, thus consuming fewer calories and eating nutritious food, which is one of the reasons they have a longer life expectancy.
An Active Mind Leads to a Youthful Body
Mental exercise is essential to keep the brain active and maintain brain health. The philosophy of Ikigai highlights the importance of remaining curious, stepping out of our comfort zones, and learning new things to slow down the aging process.
Stress – Key Factor in Killing Longevity
Stress is a significant factor that causes premature aging in many people. According to Ikigai, the constant stress signals send high-stress signals to our bodies, keeping us in a fight or flight state for long periods, while mindfulness helps reduce stress.
Having a Positive Mindset
According to research, people who have a positive mindset and higher emotional awareness have a better chance of living a longer and happier life. Ikigai philosophy teaches people to prioritize remaining optimistic while facing challenges in life.
These Ikigai lessons can change people’s lives by enabling them to find their purpose, remaining active and curious, adopting a healthy diet, reducing stress, and maintaining a positive mindset. Understanding this philosophy can lead to a more fulfilling, meaningful life, and a longer lifespan.
References: Ikigai by Hector Gargia and Francesc Miralles
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