“He who has a why to live for can bear with almost any how” — Nietzsche
Summary:
Ikigai is written by Hector Garcia & Fransesc Miralles. It’s a book that makes an attempt for you to understand your Ikigai (the happiness of always being busy). The book covers an extensive research on the people of Okinawa, Japan where supposedly the most centenarians of the world live. It even gives a detailed explanation of their traditions, lifestyle, cuisine, customs & culture.
An Insight:
1. Whatever you do, don’t retire! People in Japan continue to do what they love doing even after they retire. In fact, there is no such word as ‘retire’ in the Japanese language. Having a purpose in life is so important for them that they simply continue doing it till the end of their lives. One of the most conventional way people of Okinawa keep themselves engaged in through gardening. Almost every house in Okinawa has their vegetable garden. It’s an activity which is good for both your mind & body.
2. Diet There’s this Japanese saying ‘Hara Hachi Bu’ which means eat until you are 80% full. Food is usually served in five small plates, it’s like you feel that you are going to eat a lot, but you end up feeling little hungry. That’s the crux, to not fill your stomach full. The Japanese eat up to 18 different food throughout the day. Their food ranges from variety of fruits, vegetables, sushi, green tea, shikuwasa — a lime like fruit completely filled with an antioxidant punch, tofu, tuna fish etc. They rarely eat sugar if at all they consume its cane sugar. Tip: To check if you are eating enough variety ‘see for the rainbow’ on your plate.
3. Moai: It’s an informal social support group. Moai is a Japanese word which means “meeting for a common purpose”. The key ides of such groups are to maintain harmony & close bonds with the local community. Monthly contribution is made by the members of the group, the funds are then used for get-together activities & so on. Every month on rotation basis one member of the group receives the surplus money.
4. Using flow to find your Ikigai There is always a flow a rhythm when you do things which you love. You are completely concentrating & are focused on the task which you are doing. You are soaked in it. And, it’s always this flow which makes you become a part of what you are doing. You can always use this streak to find your Ikigai.
Off lately I have been suggesting this book to everyone I have been meeting as I have immensely enjoyed reading it. There are so many things which I would want to implement in my life. I can say it’s like a reference book now, which I will always keep going back to.
Sensesgreen 