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Rules Of Ikigai: Japanese techniques of living are popular throughout the world. We all must be familiar with the term ‘Ikigai’ which confers a Japanese concept to something that gives an individual a sense of purpose or a reason for living. The majority of us are struggling through the hassles of life to find the sole purpose of our lives. According to the Japanese, all of us have an ikigai, a reason for living.

What Is Ikigai?

The Japanese people are regarded as the longest-living people in the world. For them, Ikigai is a way of finding the key to a happier and longer life. Having a strong sense of ikigai; where what you love, what you’re good at, what you can get paid for, and what the world needs all overlap, means that each day is infused with meaning. Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life, written by Hector García and Francesc Miralles explores the secrets of longevity. Here are some rules that Ikigai states and will help you find your purpose and happiness in life. 

Japanese people swear by the rules of Ikigai for a purposeful life (Image Credits: Canva)

Rules Of Ikigai

1. Stay Active, Don’t Retire

One of the foremost rules of Ikigai is to stay active, regardless of the situation. Studies have found that most of the longest-lived people work in their 80s and 90s or don’t retire. People who give up on what they love initially lose their purpose in life. It is extremely important to stay consistent in doing what you love and value.

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2. Take Slowly

The second rule of Ikigai states that take it slow while running behind your goals and ambitions. In today’s era, we all feel the urge to rush into things, but the ultimate goal is to slow down and feel everything. By taking things slow it means that you should be mindful of your decisions and in control.

Every individual has an ikigai (Image Credits: Freepik)

3. Don’t Fill Your Stomach

A popular Japanese proverb says ‘Eating to only 80% full keeps the doctors away’. This means that in order to stay healthier, one should eat less than our hunger demands us to instead of stuffing ourselves with large meals.

4. Surround Yourself With Good Friends

According to Ikigai, friends are the best medicine, therefore for confiding worries over a good chat, sharing stories that brighten your day, getting advice, having fun, and dreaming, in other words, living. Ikigai strains on the importance of interpersonal relationships and how we are incomplete without friendships and relationships. Instead of scrolling social media, call your friends and fix a date to catch up with one another.

ALSO READ: 5 Easy And Effective Japanese Hacks For Spotless And Even-Tone Skin | Matcha To Facial Massage

5. Get In Shape For Your Next Birthday

We all may have been there when we were uncomfortable within ourselves. From trying numerous diets to exercises, we all try to get in shape. Japanese people do not practise strenuous exercises but focus on doing 5 to 10-minute daily workouts to maintain their shape and overall well-being.

 

(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)