“Ikigai”, your way to a more fulfilling life”, said the man. We were sitting at a table set for the traditional tea ceremony in one of the many tea houses in Japan that hosted tourists from all over the world. Each of us gathered at the table were discussing a bit about our cultural background, when I first heard the word, “Ikigai”
Traveling is a fun way to meet and interact with people from different backgrounds & experiences and expand our knowledge. Apart from being a beautiful country, we also learnt a lot about their traditions during our visit to Japan . Their simplicity in leading life, their food habits, their respectful, kind and helpful nature to visitors like me, all make me want to visit the place again.
Seek the wisdom that will untie your knot. Seek the path that demands your whole being ~ Rumi
What is Ikigai ?
Ikigai, is a Japanese concept meaning ” a reason for being”. Everyone according to the Japanese has an Ikigai. Finding it requires often a deep and lengthy search of self.Such a search is being regarded as very important, since it’s believed that the discovery of one’s Ikigai brings satisfaction and meaning to life.
Benefits of practicing Ikigai
When you practice Ikigai you will :
- Have a reason to get up in the morning
- Enjoy your work
- Loving what you do
- Learn the meaning to your existence
- Eat healthy
- Give you a reason to live in a nice environment
- Help you age healthy
How to Ikigai your way to a more fulfilling life?
“Ikigai” is seen as the convergence of four primary elements:
- What you love (your passion)
- What the world needs (your mission)
- What you are good at (your vocation)
- What you can get paid for (your profession)
Image courtesy : Toronto Star
Discovering your own “Ikigai” is said to bring fulfillment, happiness and make you live longer.
What are the 10 rules of Ikigai ?
- Stay active; don’t retire.
- Take it slow.
- Don’t fill your stomach.
- Surround yourself with good friends.
- Get in shape for your next birthday.
- Smile.
- Reconnect with nature.
- Give thanks.
- Live in the moment.
- Follow your Ikigai.
Check out all about it in the International Bestseller by authors, Héctor García and Francesc Miralles, below who talks about the Japanese secret to a long and happy life.
In Japan, millions of people have Ikigai (pronounced Ick-ee-guy)— a reason to jump out of bed each morning. Considering it is #SlowSunday, and you a sipping your morning tea in a relaxed and reflective manner…..
Your turn now.What’s your reason for getting up in the morning? In other words, what’s your Ikigai? Are you still searching for it or have you found it? Has this post of mine helped you , with an idea to get started?
Share your thoughts and experience in the comments section below.
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This is great way to live. I love everything about the Japanese culture. I want to learn more.
Thank you, Sherrie for your kind words, much appreciated. Isn’t it a beautiful concept to live by ? We need to find our Ikigai , the meaning of our life depends on it!