Ikigai – The Japanese way of life !
Japan has been a very fascinating place and after visiting the country last year, I just couldn’t get over the simplicity of the people.
Even with the writers and teaching, Japanese writers have written some of the most thrilling books and some of the simplest concepts, becoming the way of life. Think about all the concepts Wabi-Sabi appreciating the beauty of imperfection as an opportunity to grow. or a simple word “Kaizen” meaning continuous improvement, and becoming the concept of one of the leading automobile company from Japan. Or a simple practice of tidying up that distress you.The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo.
Recently I Just read the Ikigai and thoroughly enjoyed the book and the concept. “Ikigai” a single word that is a combination of two words “Iki” Meaning life and “Kai” the realization of hope. Making it in simple words ‘A sense of Purpose in life.”
Japan is a country filled with Mysteries, surprises, and awe. That when you get to know about Ogimi village in Japan in Okinawa district is known as the village of longevity with the highest number of Centurions in the world ((People who live a hundred years and above )Ogimi is not just a place in Japan, But,they also have a way of living that the had become the subject of the book “Ikigai” The Japanese Secret to a long and Happy life. Written by Hector Garcia & Francesc Miralles.
The Diet of Okinawa the locals follow to lead a healthy life and a long life.
1. Locals eat a wide variety of foods.
2. They eat at least five serving of fruits & vegetables every day ( Rainbow)
30% calories from vegetables.
3. Grains are the foundation of their diet
4. Rarely eat sugar (Cane sugar is the substitute)
7 gms of Salt a day, Compared to 12 gms.
15 Antioxidants part of Japanese diet,We must include in our diet.
1.Tofu
2.Miso
3.Tuna
4.Carrots
5.Goya(Bitter lemon )
6.Kombu(Sea Kelp)
7.Cabbage
8.Nori(Seaweed)
9.Onion
10.Soy sprouts
11.Soybeans ( Boiled or raw )
12.Sweet Potatoes
13.Pepper
14.Sanpin-Cha(Jasmine Tea)
15.Hechima (Cucumber like gourd)
16. Shikuwasa – Is a type of an orange also known as a Taiwan Tangerine mainly found in Taiwan & Okiwana in Japan. It is beneficial as it has a compound Synephrine that enhances lipid metabolism and increases the metabolic rate.
It’s also the way they think that makes them lead a long life.
Their secret to longevity is.
- Don’t worry
- Cultivate good habits
- Nurture friendship everyday
- Live an unhurried life.
- Optimistic
Rules of Ikigai one must follow.
1. Stay active don’t retire
2. Take it slow
3. Don’t fill your stomach (80% rule )
4.Surround yourself with good friends
5. Get in shape for your next Birthday.
6.Smile
7.Reconnect with nature
8. Give thanks
9. Live in the moment
10. Follow your Ikigai
These are some of the concepts and learning from the International bestseller Ikigai that I thought would be worth sharing.
Before I could conclude the blog.
Sun Simiao essayist of the sixth century believed in the six healing sounds for remaining calm.
Xu, pronounced like “shh” with a deep sigh which is associated with liver
He pronounced like “her” with a yawn, which is associated with heart
Si pronounced like “sir” with a slow exhale, which is associated with lungs.
Chui, pronounced like “chwee” with a forceful exhale, which is associated with the kidneys
Hoo pronounced like” who”, which is associated with the spleen
Xi pronounced like “she,” which connects the whole body.
And now the Poem.
In Spring breathe xu for clear eyes and
so wood can aid your liver.
In summer, reach for he, so that heart and fire can be at peace.
In Fall, breathe si to stabilize and gather metal, keeping the lungs moist.
For the kidneys, next, breathe chai and see your inner water calm.
The Triple heaters need your xi to expel all heat and troubles.
In all four seasons, take deep breaths so your spleen can process food.
And, of course, avoid exhaling noisily; don’t even let your own ears hear you.
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