Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life

Well written, practical, guide for living a better life
This is the first of a number of Japanese cultural books I’m studying regarding practical ways to live happier, healthier, and longer. This is a wonderful introduction to ikigai—finding your reason to get out of bed each day and enjoy your life. This is a short easy read with some inspirational advice you can put into practice right away. I’ve already messed up by breaking the first rule of “Don’t Retire”. Big mistake on my part, but I’m slowly learning how to better navigate this new phase of life. Whatever your phase of life, this book will lead you in a positive direction.

THE SECOND EDITION WILL BE THE ONE TO BUY
Just about everything about this book is great. The Japanese have a great way of doing things, a way of life that leads them to live longer on average than just about anyone. The authors of this book provide many examples of Japanese people living as they do, and they are inspiring. They refer to the Ikigai system, show the famous chart example of it. Ikigai is your life force, what you are all about. Well, okay. But in spite of all this, the authors do not show you how the Japanese actually determine their Ikigai. There are brief examples of things, but nothing extensive. They do not provide a way for you — the reader — to determine your Ikigai. And that is why I bought the book. Perhaps the next edition will include this.

What an Amazing book!
Imagine a life where your passion, profession, vocation, and mission all converge, leading you to discover your “ikigai” – your reason for being. In essence, it’s your life’s purpose, and finding it can be transformative.Identifying your “ikigai” involves exploring crucial factors that overlap, allowing you to unlock the secrets to a fulfilling existence. To embark on this journey, start by asking yourself these simple yet profound questions:What activities do you genuinely love to do?What are your innate strengths and talents?What can you do that others are willing to compensate you for?How can you contribute to the needs of the world around you?Though seemingly straightforward, answering these questions requires deep introspection. It may take time to uncover the layers and truly understand what ignites your passion and aligns with your core values.Diving into the essence of “ikigai,” this book offers remarkable insights into a culture that embraces joy and purpose as integral elements of their existence. It reveals how this harmonious outlook keeps them youthful and motivated. By delving into these principles, you can learn how to adopt this serene and meaningful way of life.Reading this book can be a transformative experience, guiding you toward understanding your purpose, living with intention, and leading a long and fulfilling life – supported by research and commentary by the authors. Embrace the wisdom of “ikigai,” and embark on a path that intertwines passion, fulfillment, and purpose.

Great life lessons from those who know how to live well.
Bought it as a tool to better understand how to get the most of life. Really insightful lessons from those who live long and happy lives. Not a long read, but a good one. One you can pick up and read from time to time when you need a reminder of some principles of physical, mental, and emotional health.

“Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life” by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles explores the Japanese concept of ikigai, which means “reason for being.” The book delves into how finding and pursuing one’s ikigai can lead to a fulfilling and purposeful life. Through interviews with Japanese centenarians and insights into the culture of Okinawa, the authors provide practical advice on living a balanced, meaningful life. The book is both enlightening and motivating, offering readers a blend of philosophy, psychology, and practical tips to uncover their own ikigai and enhance their well-being.

Acabo de terminar el libro, y me gustó mucho. Tanto la información como la estética del mismo son interesantes.En cuanto a la estética de este, es muy llamativa y hermosa. Adquirí la edición de pasta dura, de color blanco, y que está envuelta con un papel en la cual se muestra un sakura blanco en la parte frontal, y en la parte trasera se encuentra el esquema Ikigai. Recomiendo ser muy cuidadoso con este, porque es algo frágil y puede maltratarse.Este libro tiene un gran enfoque en la cultura Japonesa, sobre todo en el pueblo de Ogimi, Okinawa. Los autores de este libro visitaron aquel lugar, donde se dice se encuentra la mayor cantidad de personas longevas, que poseen gran vitalidad, y las estudiaron para conocer el secreto de una vida larga y feliz. Los residentes de este pueblo, así como el resto de Japoneses, tienen un fuerte sentido de ikigai. Este es un concepto Japonés que se traduce como “propósito de vida”. Nos propone que todos tenemos un ikigai dentro de sí, algunos ya lo han encontrado, mientras que otros aún no, pero todos lo tenemos. Cuando lo encontramos y lo practicamos diariamente, nuestra vida toma un significado gratificante y nos sentimos realizados internamente.Los Japoneses suelen encontrar su ikigai, desarrollarlo y practicarlo el resto de sus vidas. Lo hacen con dedicación y entusiasmo destacables.Volviendo a las personas de Ogimi, éstas tienen hábitos que hacen claro el porqué de su longevidad llena de energía y salud. Se suele hacer comparaciones de sus hábitos con los de personas de Occidente, lo cual nos hace notar que muchos hábitos que tenemos son perjudiciales sin saberlo.La alimentación (tema que me habría gustado se viera más a fondo), la actividad física y la logoterapia son tan solo algunos temas que se mencionan en este libro, y que son de suma importancia para llevar una buena vida.Sin duda una lectura amena, disfrutable y educativa.

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