Ikigai - The Japanese Secret for a long and happy life.

The Japanese Secret for a long and happy life. The people of Japan believe that everyone has an Ikigai - a reason to jump out of bed everymorning - Is Ikigai. (19 of 2020)

Iki = Life and Gai = Worth. 

Co-written by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles based on their interviewing more than a 100 villagers from Okinawa where the inhabitants live longer than in any other place in the world. Héctor García is a citizen of Japan, where he has lived for over a decade, and of Spain, where he was born. He is the author of several books about Japanese culture, including two worldwide bestsellers, A Geek in Japan and Ikigai. Francesc Miralles is the award-winning and internationally bestselling author of books about how to live well, together with the novels Love in Small Letters and Wabi-Sabi.

Only staying active will make you want to live a hundred years - Japanese Proverb


I Ikigai - A Mysterious word, The art of staying young while growing old.

II Antiaging secrets - Little things that add up to long and happy life.

III From Logotherapy to Ikigai - How to live longer and better by finding your purpose.

IV Find Flow in everything you do - How to turn work and free time into spaces for growth.

V Masters of Longevity - Words of wisdom from the longest-living people in the world.

VI Lessons from Japan's Centenarianes - Traditions and proverbs for happiness and longevity.

VII The Ikigai Diet - what the worlds longest-living people eat and drink.

VIII Gentle Movements, Longer Life - Exercise from the east that promote health and longevity.

IX Resilience and Wabi-Sabi - How to face life's challenges without letting stress and worry age you.

X Epilogue - Ikigai - The Art of Living.


Inspiring and comforting, this book will give you the life changing tools to uncover your personal ikigai. It will show you, how to leave urgency behind, find your purpose, nurture friendship and throw yourself into your passion.

Our Ikigai is hidden deep inside each of us. Based on a diagram by Mark Venn this is at the intersection of four elements:
1) What your are good at
2) What you can be paid for
3) What the world needs
4) What you love

1 and 4 is passion; 1 and 2 is your profession; 2 and 3 is your vocation; and 3 and 4 is your Mission.

When you make your passion your prfession, vocation and mission in life you find Ikigai.

Eat upto 80% of your stomach capacity, have a strong bond with people around.
Whatever you do, don't retire.

Key 1: Movement - Is the fundamental aspect of life, sign of life. It should be consistent through out. Move more, to live more.
Key 2: Reason to jump out of bed every morning - Life's purpose - Unique for every one. Be engaged in meaningful activity to live long.
Key 3: Social circle - 2004 Friends serial ended and Facebook started - we are connected as well as disconnected like never before. Real conversations and engagements are needed. Treat everyone like a friend, even if you have not met before. To gain a friend, be one.

10 Rules for a long and happy life are:

1) Stay active, dont retire.
2) Take it slow.
3) Don't fill your stomach - keep it only 80% full
4) Surround yourself with good friends
5) Get in shape for your next birthday - body needs maintenance.
6) Smile - Privilege to be here an now
7) Reconnect with Nature.
8) Give thanks to ancestors, Nature, family, and everything.
9) Live in the moment - Today is all you have
10) Follow your Ikigai - Discover your mission.

Here are some of the key takeaways:

1. Understanding the Concept of Ikigai: The book delves into the origins and cultural significance of ikigai in Japan. It explains how ikigai is not just about personal happiness but also about contributing to the well-being of others and society as a whole. By reading the book, readers gain a comprehensive understanding of what ikigai truly means and how it can be applied to their own lives.

2. Discovering Personal Purpose: One of the main objectives of the book is to help readers identify their own ikigai. It provides practical exercises, thought-provoking questions, and real-life examples to guide individuals in exploring their passions, talents, values, and experiences. Through self-reflection and introspection, readers can uncover their unique purpose in life and align their actions with it.

3. Cultivating a Balanced Lifestyle: The book emphasizes the importance of balance in various aspects of life, including work, relationships, health, and personal growth. It offers insights on how to find harmony between different domains and suggests strategies for integrating one's ikigai into daily routines. By following the principles outlined in the book, readers can strive for a more balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.

4. Nurturing Meaningful Relationships: Another significant aspect of ikigai is the emphasis on social connections and community. The book explores the role of relationships in finding and nurturing one's ikigai. It provides guidance on building meaningful connections, fostering empathy, and contributing to the well-being of others. By prioritizing relationships and fostering a sense of belonging, readers can enhance their overall sense of purpose and happiness.

5. Embracing Mindfulness and Gratitude: The concept of mindfulness is intertwined with ikigai, as it encourages individuals to be fully present and appreciative of each moment. The book highlights the importance of mindfulness practices such as meditation, reflection, and gratitude. By cultivating a mindful mindset, readers can develop a deeper appreciation for life's simple pleasures and find joy in everyday experiences.

6. Overcoming Challenges and Adversity: Life is not without its challenges, and the book acknowledges this reality. It offers insights on how to navigate obstacles, setbacks, and difficult times while staying true to one's ikigai. By adopting a resilient mindset and embracing the lessons learned from adversity, readers can grow stronger and continue pursuing their purpose.

In conclusion, reading the book "Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life" can have transformative learning outcomes for individuals seeking to find meaning, fulfillment, and happiness in their lives. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the concept of ikigai, guides readers in discovering their own purpose, encourages a balanced lifestyle, emphasizes the importance of relationships, promotes mindfulness and gratitude, and offers strategies for overcoming challenges. By incorporating these principles into their lives, readers can embark on a journey towards a more purposeful and fulfilling existence.