Book Review and Insights Learning: (IKIGAI)

Interestingly, most of the tips or information this book shared is the same as already described in our religion, Islam. In a nutshell I can say, if someone obeys and maintains our religion, Islam, in his/her life, then it is just a matter of time for him/her to be happy.

Book introduction

In Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life, written by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles, readers are taken on a journey to uncover the timeless wisdom of ikigai, a Japanese philosophy that centers on finding one’s purpose in life. Rooted in Japanese culture and particularly exemplified by the residents of Okinawa, the home to some of the longest-living people in the world. Ikigai is the idea that everyone has a unique reason for being, a driving force that fuels their happiness and fulfillment.

The authors blend insights from psychology, sociology, and traditional Japanese practices to offer a guide for discovering one’s ikigai. Through vivid stories, research on longevity, and practical advice, the book reveals how this concept helps people lead meaningful lives, stay active well into old age, and maintain a positive outlook even in life’s challenges.

About Author

Héctor García is a Spanish author and software engineer who has lived in Japan for many years. He is known for his work on Japanese culture and lifestyle, including the popular blog kirainet.com and books like A Geek in Japan. His deep understanding of Japanese traditions stems from his experiences living and working in Japan.

Francesc Miralles is a Spanish writer, journalist, and expert in self-help and inspirational literature. He has authored several bestselling books, including Love in Small Letters. His work often explores themes of happiness, personal growth, and human connection.

High-level Overview

Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles explores the Japanese concept of ikigai, loosely translated as “a reason for being” or “the thing that gets you up in the morning.” It provides insights into finding purpose and meaning in life while maintaining happiness and longevity. The book combines philosophy, psychology, and cultural insights, offering practical advice rooted in Japanese traditions.

Key Themes:

• Understanding Ikigai
• Longevity Lessons from Okinawa
• Flow and Mindfulness
• The Role of Simplicity and Resilience
• Practical Tips to Cultivate Ikigai

Insights and Learning

Find Your Ikigai:

• Discover what makes you happy, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can earn from. It’s the secret to a purposeful life. Focus on you, not others.
• In our religion, Islam suggests that you always be happy with what you have.

Stay Active:

• Never retire from what you love. Keep your body and mind engaged to maintain vitality and happiness.
• In our religion, Islam suggests that you always keep yourself engaged in good work; otherwise, you will be lazy and engage in bad work.

Eat Mindfully:

• Following the 80% rule means stopping eating when you’re 80% full to stay healthy and avoid overeating.
• In our religion, Islam suggests that you eat 1/3 part, drink water 1/3 part, and keep 1/3 part of your belly empty. That way your body will feel lightweight and stay healthy.

Build Strong Connections:

• Surround yourself with supportive, meaningful relationships to stay emotionally fulfilled and reduce stress.
• In our religion, Islam suggests that you always get in touch with your relatives, neighbors, and friends and keep good relationships.

Embrace Simplicity:

• A simple, uncluttered life focused on what truly matters leads to greater peace and satisfaction.
• In our religion, Islam suggests that you always stay happy and satisfied with all you have right now.

Stay in the Present:

• Focus on the now and enjoy life’s small joys instead of worrying about the past or future.
• In our religion, Islam suggests that you utilize your current time without thinking about the future too much.

Find Flow:

• Engage deeply in activities that bring you joy and challenge you, creating a state of flow where you lose track of time.
• In our religion, Islam suggests that you work hard and you will get your reward at the right time. Just keep the good flow.

Stay Resilient:

• Face challenges with a positive mindset and adaptability to keep moving forward.
• In our religion, Islam suggests that we always believe in Allah and face challenges with positivity.

Health Matters:

• Regular physical activity and a plant-based diet promote longevity and well-being.
• In our religion, Islam suggests early rise and early bed.

Purpose Keeps You Alive:

• Having a reason to wake up every day, no matter how small, is essential for happiness and a long life.
• In our religion, Islam suggests that we focus on day-to-day and stay safe from sin. And focus on the good work, which will give you Jannah (the heaven).

Conclusion

Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life serves as a thoughtful guide to finding purpose, joy, and longevity through the Japanese philosophy of ikigai. The authors encourage readers to live intentionally, stay active, build meaningful relationships, and embrace simplicity by giving practical advice. Ultimately, it inspires a life of balance, happiness, and fulfillment, reminding us that small, mindful actions can lead to profound changes.