Japan is one of the most futuristic nations in the world. It is a nation with a wealth of things to offer. The list is endless and includes things like modern washrooms, luxurious automobiles, and distinctive cultures. The icing on the cake are the Japanese ideas that change people’s lives for the better. In today’s hectic and fast-paced world, they are indispensable for achieving contentment and tranquility. After all, the life expectancy rate in Japan is the second highest. Surely, they must be taking some steps to achieve such results, right?
So, today let us take a tour of Japan’s famous concepts (virtually of course) and understand how these concepts would let us live a happier and successful life which might be a reason for our longevity.
IKIGAI: The words, “Iki” and “gai,” which were previously called “kai” and signify “life” and “value” or “worth,” respectively, are the roots of the term “Ikigai.” Originally, the goal of Japanese Ikigai philosophy was to discover one’s actual happiness. According to a contemporary perspective, it is a technique for locating one’s ideal job. By matching one’s passion with what the world needs right now, one may utilize it as a compass that informs one what they are destined to do.
SHINRIN-YOKU: Shinrin-yoku, commonly referred to as forest bathing, is a practice that entails submerging oneself in the natural world and inhaling the scents of the forest. It’s thought to improve general wellbeing, elevate mood, and lessen stress. In today’s hectic and technology driven world, we hardly ever have time to disconnect from technological devices and the daily grind. Shinrin-yoku enters the scene here as a readily available, cost-free therapeutic counteragent.
WABI-SABI: Do you frequently find it difficult to go on or begin anything new because your default setting is to strive for perfection? Then, the concept of Wabi-Sabi is perfect for you. Wabi-Sabi is the practice of reminding ourselves that nothing in this world is permanent and that striving for perfection is pointless, we must strive to appreciate its inherent beauty and make the greatest possible use of it.
HARA HACHI BU: This idea originates from Okinawan culture, where it’s customary to eat until 80% full. In the culture, it is believed that people can prevent overeating and excessive calorie intake by stopping their meals before they are fully satisfied. Hara hachi bu is a technique that can lengthen life and assist in stopping overeating. This technique is thought to improve digestion, help people lose weight, and improve general health.
MA: “Ma” denotes the idea of negative space, or the space between things, in Japanese terminology. It is the area that is often left purposefully vacant or uncertain in between things, factors, or times. Ma is the presence of potential and possibility as well as the absence of something. Ma is a refined practice in Japanese culture that enables one to reflect in silence. It improves one’s intuition and cerebral faculties and hence is a physical representation of spirituality.
SHIKATA GA NAI: The Japanese idea of Shikata Ga Nai, also known as Sho(ga) nai, means relinquishing control over uncontrollable things. Shikata Ga NAi, which merely means “it can’t be helped,” exhorts individuals to accept circumstances or things for what they are. In other words, it communicates the idea of accepting the situation as it is and moving on without focusing on the things that cannot be altered.
Therefore, it is clear from the article that including the above said ideas into daily living can improve one’s emotional, mental, and physical well-being, which will ultimately result in a more fulfilling and satisfying life. Let me tell you here that if you have the determination, discipline, and commitment to live a meaningful life, practicing them is simple. These Japanese ideas will give you the bravery, fortitude, and knowledge to handle any hardship with grace, and they will completely change your life for the better.
