June 06 2020
Published in: House of Wellness
It’s said to be the secret to a happier, longer life. So what exactly is Ikigai – and how do you find yours?
Ikigai is the Japanese concept of finding your purpose in life. Roughly translated it means “that which makes life worth living” and is said to be the secret to a happier, longer life.
With Japan boasting the highest number of centenarians per capita in the world, is it time to do as the Japanese do and find your Ikigai?
What is Ikigai?
The common Western definition of Ikigai is where passion, mission, profession and vocation intersect.
Ikigai Psychology Clinic founder Tunteeya Yamaoka says contrary to popular belief, Ikigai is not always about career.
“Ikigai is about doing things that make you feel ‘alive’, practising your values and creating a lifestyle that is worth living for where you can experience your inner joy,” says Tunteeya.
For some this could be at work, but for others it can be found outside of their job, perhaps in an activity or hobby.
“Everyone lives different lives and has different values therefore there is a variety of different ways to express your Ikigai,” she says.
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