Description

Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life

By Héctor García & Francesc Miralles

📖 Summary of Ikigai:

Ikigai explores the Japanese concept of “ikigai” (生き甲斐), which roughly translates to “a reason for being” or “the thing that gets you up in the morning.” The book blends philosophy, lifestyle advice, psychology, and cultural insights to help readers discover their own purpose and live a longer, more meaningful, and happier life.

The authors draw heavily from:

• Japanese culture, especially the lifestyle of the centenarians in Okinawa, one of the world’s Blue Zones (regions known for high longevity)
• Interviews and observations from real people living healthy, purpose-driven lives
• Psychological and spiritual principles such as flow, mindfulness, and resilience

🔑 Core Concepts:

🌀 The Ikigai Venn Diagram (not in the original Japanese concept, but popularized in the West):

Your Ikigai lies at the intersection of:

1. What you love
2. What you’re good at
3. What the world needs
4. What you can be paid for

Other ideas:

• Stay active, never retire completely
• Nurture friendships and community
• Eat lightly (e.g., the 80% full rule: hara hachi bu)
• Practice daily mindfulness and movement (like walking or gardening)
• Accept imperfection (embrace wabi-sabi)
• Live in the present and find joy in the small things

🏷️ Categories / Genres:

• Self-Help
• Personal Development
• Philosophy / Eastern Philosophy
• Wellness / Longevity
• Mindfulness & Lifestyle

🌿 Who Should Read This:

• Anyone looking to find more meaning or direction in life
• Those interested in longevity and Japanese culture
• Readers of books like The Happiness Project, The Art of Happiness, or The Little Book of Hygge