Well, recently I came across a Facebook post while scrolling down my page, this makes me little surprised as I had already gone through the most famous book written by Hector Gracia and Francese Miralles on Japanese lifestyle “ IKIGAI (Japanese secrets to a long and happy life) “. This Facebook post was about the numbers of Japan’s centenarian people.
Globally, Japan has been viewed as a model of longevity. Japan’s tradition and a health care system, that is based on preventive care rather than curative care, is supporting the people of Japan to live past 100 years. Recently published studies and government data showed that centenarian population in Japan is going to touch the amazing figures of 100,000. As per studies, there is almost 99,763 centenarians living in Japan as of September 1, 2025.
This Facebook post once again pulled my attention towards my bookshelf. At one corner on the uppermost row, the book titled is “IKIGAI” lying. The recent data released on centenarian population of Japan reminds me of the truthfulness the book carries. The book itself has a separate page on famous Japanese proverb -”Only staying active will make you want to live a hundred years.”
The book “IKIGAI” will certainly bring you in a mysterious world where you find most sought treasure of life i.e. Happiness and longevity. Here I am going to share excerpts of one of my favourite books “IKIGAI” –
Meaning of IKIGAI
Let first understand the meaning of this word “IKIGAI” through a beautiful line this book has in the beginning -“Your ikigai is at the intersection of what you are good at and what you love doing“. In literal terms, IKIGAI means – “The happiness of always being busy”. In simple words, IKIGAI means the reason we wake up in the morning and the meaning of our life, the life’s purposes that give meaning to our days.
Power of small joys
Don’t wait for grand celebration to occur in our life. Some little moments – “like waking up early in the morning and feeling the calmness of the day, sometimes have a warmth of the sun, have a kind word to someone” – make the life rich.
Embrace flow and simplicity
“The happiest people are not the ones who achieve the most. They are the ones who spend more time than others in a state of flow.” It teaches us to immerse ourselves completely in what we do. Whether it is our reading of books, doing painting, gardening or any other activities- find the joy in the process.
Find balance in life
“We should never forget that the grand goal of all human beings is to live, – not just to exist”. The book highlights the connection with the nature, moderation in life and mindfulness as essential to a fulfilled life.
Live with purpose
“Those who discover their ikigai have everything they need for a long and joyful journey through life.“ The IKIGAI teaches us that we all should know our purpose of life. This helps us stay strong, resilient, motivated and mentally strong in hard times of our life.
Secrets to happy life and longevity
“Staying active, having good social ties, and eating light are all part of a long, happy life.” These teachings have been told by the residents of Okinawa (a province of Japan) – where people often live past 100 years
Connection and community
“Being surrounded by good friends helps living a happy and long life” The Okinawan elders say that our social circle of friends supports each other in every aspect of life.
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