The philosophy of ikigai: the path to harmony and longevity
Ikigai is a Japanese concept that stands for joy in life and a sense of one's purpose. It is the driving force that makes us wake up in the morning and greet the new day.
The Japanese believe that ikigai lives in everyone, but it takes patience to find it. With the help of ikigai, a person begins to notice the beauty of the surrounding world and enjoy the little things, finding harmony and peace of mind. He is accompanied by success in work and personal life.
In Japan, the word is used frequently and on different occasions. Ikigai can represent a hobby, profession, or family. It refers both to small day-to-day affairs and to global ambitions and big accomplishments.
Historical roots of ikigai
Ikigai originated on the island of Okinawa, presumably in the Middle Ages. The word itself has been present in Japanese language since at least the 14th century, while in European psychology the concept of "meaning of life" did not appear until the 19th century.
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