Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life

 

The book "Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life" written by Hector Garcia and Francesc Mirales was published in English on August 29, 2017. It's a book that makes you think and feel inspired. It talks about something called "Ikigai," which is a Japanese idea. The book helps us understand how to find meaning and happiness in our lives.

The author skillfully weaves together memories, anecdotes and interviews from his own life to reveal the comprehensive meaning of "Ikigai".

"Ikigai" is a Japanese word that has a special meaning. It combines two words: "iki" which means "life" and "gai" which means "value." When we put them together, "Ikigai" means the value of life or the reason for living. It's a simple way to understand the philosophy of finding meaning and purpose in our lives.

In Japanese culture, "Ikigai" is not just a word but a concept that encompasses many aspects of life, such as the pursuit of purpose, fulfillment, passion, and happiness. Japanese experts and writers think that the word "Ikigai" came from a place called Okinawa in Japan. They believe it's connected to the good health and happiness of the people who live there. But they also say that this idea of ikigai has spread all across Japan and is now used by everyone.

The concept of the Ikigai book revolves around four essential elements: what we love, what we are good at, what the world needs, and for what we can get paid. The author thinks that if we can bring these things together, we can live a happy and satisfying life.

In this book we find a mixture of ancient culture and knowledge with modern knowledge. The author elaborates on traditional Japanese culture and how people live beyond the hundread in Okinawa and their experiences. The author's experiences and the essence of the book highlight the importance of finding joy in the little things, cultivating relationships and being there for others.

This book tells us about people who have found their ikigai (value of life, joy of life, work they love) in different ways. They could be doing small or big things, but they put their heart and energy into it and find happiness. They also build strong relationships, get along well with others, and have a balanced lifestyle. The author thinks that if we follow the principles of ikigai, we can be happy and live longer. The book guides us on how to find and embrace our own joy and ikigai to live a meaningful and happy life.

For example, someone who loves playing the guitar and is really good at teaching it. They make money by playing the guitar and it brings them happiness. The author believes that because they have found their ikigai, they will live a longer life. It's like having their own special secret that keeps them healthy and joyful.

This book inspires us to find purpose and fulfillment in everyday life and to find meaning and joy in our lives.

 
The original authors of this book are Hector Garcia and Francesc Mirales, and it has been translated into many languages around the world. It's available in Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Italian, Dutch, Korean, Hindi, Marathi, and more. The Marathi version was translated by Prasad Dhapare and published by My Mirror Publishing House. In the book, the authors share interviews with people who have lived to be very old and reveal the real secret behind their long lives. After reading this book, you'll be convinced that every person has their own ikigai, and it will help you find yours too. I think so.  - Krushna Dabholkar