Ikigai

 Here’s a summary of the book Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralle

Title: Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life

Authors: Héctor García & Francesc Miralles

Genre: Self-help / Philosophy

Summary:

The book explores the Japanese concept of "Ikigai"—which roughly translates to "a reason for being." It represents the intersection of four elements:

1. What you love (Passion)

2. What you are good at (Profession)

3. What the world needs (Mission)

4. What you can be paid for (Vocation)

Key Takeaways:

Purpose Equals Longevity: People with a clear ikigai tend to live longer, healthier, and more fulfilled lives, as seen in Okinawa, Japan, one of the world’s Blue Zones (regions with the highest life expectancy).

Stay Active, Don’t Retire: Keep your body and mind engaged even after retirement. Avoid sedentary living.

Take it Slow: Embrace a slower pace of life to reduce stress and live more mindfully.

Cultivate Good Habits: Eat lightly (especially following the 80% full rule—hara hachi bu), exercise regularly, and maintain close social relationships.

Live in the Moment: Practice mindfulness and enjoy the small joys of everyday life.

Philosophy: The book blends insights from Japanese culture, interviews with long-living Okinawans, and psychological and philosophical perspectives on living a meaningful life.