9 Japanese Practices To Improve Your Life
"Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated."
—Confucius
In the last decade or so, Japan has crept up toward the top of my bucket list of destinations. I am fascinated by the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture but also by their unique yet poignant philosophies. The more I learn, the more I love the Japanese culture.
Recently, I discovered (and rediscovered in some cases) these practices simplified into words or phrases. So then I went down a rabbit hole and below is what I came out of that hole with. These are Japanese concepts drawn from ancient traditions and modern perspectives.
I’ve been using these as reminders and credos to change my mindset and help me zoom out in designing and living my life.
Japanese Concepts For Living A Better Life
Ikigai
Ikigai (ee-kee-guy), is a concept that emphasizes the intersection of four fundamental elements:
What you love
What you are good at
What the world needs
What you can be paid for
By finding the perfect harmony between these aspects, you unlock your Ikigai - your reason for being. Ikigai encourages us to pursue our passions, hone our skills, contribute to society, and earn a livelihood, leading to a more deeply fulfilling and purpose-driven life.
Here’s a great Forbes article on how Ikigai can improve your longevity.
Wabi-Sabi
Wabi-Sabi (wah-bee sah-bee) is a philosophy that appreciates the beauty in imperfection, impermanence, and simplicity. In a world often obsessed with perfection and constant change, embracing Wabi-Sabi can teach us to find beauty in the flaws and cherish the fleeting moments.
Shinrin-Yoku
Shinrin-Yoku (shin-rin-yoh-koo), or "forest bathing," is the practice of immersing oneself in the healing powers of nature. This concept recognizes the therapeutic benefits of spending time in forests and natural environments, reducing stress levels, enhancing the immune system, and improving overall well-being.
It’s a very old concept in Japan but it is beginning to creep into the U.S. lexicon (with plenty of research to back it up). In a more general sense, Shinrin-Yoku encourages you to slow down, engage your senses, and attune yourself to the calming rhythms of the natural world.
Kaizen
Kaizen (ky-zen), which translates to "continuous improvement," is a Japanese concept that advocates making small, incremental changes to achieve significant progress over time. Applied to personal growth, Kaizen encourages individuals to take small steps toward their goals, focusing on consistency and persistence. This can relate to everything from exercise to parenting to cooking to managing our emotions. I love this one.
Kintsugi
Kintsugi (kin-tsoo-gee) is an ancient Japanese art form that involves repairing broken pottery using lacquer mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. Instead of concealing the cracks, Kintsugi highlights them, celebrating the beauty of imperfection and the history of the object. This concept teaches us to embrace our own scars and imperfections as valuable parts of our journey, making us stronger and more unique.
Hanami
Hanami (hah-nah-mee) is the traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms during the brief period of their bloom. It reminds us of the beauty and fragility of life and encourages us to appreciate the present moment fully.
Mono no Aware
Mono no Aware (moh-noh noh ah-wah-ray), often translated as "the pathos of things," is a concept that acknowledges the bittersweet nature of life and the impermanence of all things. It encourages the recognition of the evanescent beauty of moments and objects in order to achieve a deeper sense of empathy and appreciation.
Yutori
Yutori (yoo-toh-ree) is a concept that embodies the idea of creating space and finding balance in one's life. It emphasizes the importance of slowing down, simplifying, and allowing room for relaxation and reflection.
Hara Hachi Bu
Hara Hachi Bu (hah-rah hah-chee boo) is a traditional Japanese practice of eating until you are 80% full. This concept promotes mindful eating and portion control, ensuring that you consume only what your body needs. By adopting Hara Hachi Bu, you can cultivate a healthier relationship with food and improve your overall well-being.
Takeaway
Incorporating these Japanese concepts into your life can provide valuable insights and practices that enhance your overall well-being and outlook on life. By seeking your Ikigai, embracing imperfection through Wabi-Sabi, immersing yourself in nature with Shinrin-Yoku, and adopting a mindset of continuous improvement through Kaizen, you can embark on a journey of self-discovery, mindfulness, and personal growth. Embrace the wisdom of Japan, and unlock the potential for a more purposeful, balanced, and fulfilling life.
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