“Ikigai and Other Japanese Words to Live By” by Mari Fujimoto is a book that explores various Japanese concepts related to personal growth and fulfillment. The book provides knowledge of these concepts and how they can be applied daily to find purpose, happiness, and inner peace.
Ikigai is a sense of purpose, meaning, or fulfillment that makes life worth living. It is a combination of the words “Iki,” meaning “life,” and “Gai,” representing “value” or “worth.” Ikigai is often associated with the Japanese island of Okinawa. The people of Okinawa have one of the highest life expectancies in the world, with many residents living to be over 100 years old.
Kintsugi is a Japanese art where broken pottery is repaired with gold or silver lacquer, making the cracks visible instead of hiding them. It teaches us to accept our flaws and find beauty in imperfection, just like in life. When something is damaged, it becomes more valuable because of its history.
“Ichariba Chode” is a phrase from Okinawa that means “once we meet, we are brothers and sisters.” It reminds us to build connections and treat others with kindness and respect. This is because we are all part of a larger community and share a common humanity.
“Mottainai” is a Japanese word that means “what a waste!” It reminds us not to be wasteful and to use resources efficiently. It reflects a value of frugality and respect for the environment and encourages people to be mindful of their consumption and reduce waste through recycling and conservation.
“Wabi-sabi” is a Japanese idea that values imperfection, simplicity, and impermanence. It appreciates natural and unrefined things and finds beauty in aged or incomplete objects. Instead of striving for perfection, wabi-sabi teaches us to appreciate things as they are. It reminds us that life is transient and impermanent and encourages us to find contentment in simple and ordinary moments.
“Kaizen” is a Japanese concept of continuous improvement emphasizing the importance of making small changes over time. It can be used to improve processes in business, but also for personal growth and development. The idea is that small changes can lead to significant improvements if done consistently. Kaizen involves:
- Identifying areas for improvement.
- Setting goals.
- Experimenting with new approaches.
- Constantly evaluating and adjusting the process.
“Zazen” is a type of meditation practiced in Zen Buddhism. It involves sitting with a straight back, crossed legs, and hands in a specific position. The goal is to quiet the mind and be present at the moment. During zazen, one focuses on their breath and tries to let go of thoughts or distractions. It helps cultivate mindfulness, self-awareness, and inner calm. It is an essential practice in Zen Buddhism for achieving enlightenment or spiritual awakening.
“Shinrin-yoku” means “forest bathing” in Japanese and is the practice of spending time in nature, particularly forests, to improve physical and mental health. It is about immersing oneself in nature, engaging the senses, and being present at the moment to reduce stress and promote overall well-being.
“Gaman” is a Japanese word that means enduring difficult situations with patience and dignity. It is valued in Japanese culture as a way to develop inner strength and resilience, and is seen as an important virtue in various aspects of life. Examples of “gaman” might include working hard without complaining, persevering through a tough illness, or coping with loss in a graceful way.
“Inemuri” is a Japanese practice of dozing off in public places, like trains or workplaces. It’s a culturally accepted way to nap during the day without leaving work or seeming lazy. Instead, it’s seen as a sign of hard work and dedication and is common among Japanese workers who often have extended hours and a culture of overwork.
I have mentioned a few examples, but the book explores many other Japanese concepts related to personal growth and fulfillment.
Reference:
Ikigai and 42 other Japanese words for a mindful life – WeDoJapan
40 Powerfully Beautiful Japanese Words | YourDictionary
List of 30 Positive Thinking Japanese Words | Japanese Language Blog (transparent.com)
Good introduction to Ikigai ashwini.
Actually many of these principles can be applied to all walks of life self, profession , relationship s, they are equally valid . For example if we apply them to relationship then ikigai means every relationship is worth protecting and nurturing ,kirstogi no relationship is perfect it should be accepted with flaws , in Mottinai we should not waste a single moment and enjoy every moment in every relationship keeping aside disagreement, shi rin yaku is simple way of enjoying picnic in forest , Riverside or on hills along with near and dear ones or sometimes alone with self, Kaizan though used often in six sigma management theories , but we should constantly look for ways and means to improve relationship to get best out of it is what I feel, Zazen will have no takers in india as we have plethora of meditation technique s , naamjapa, ashtang yog , kriya yog etc. Good blog.