Ikigai Book Review: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life

 

Have you ever searched for a book that can help you find purpose, happiness, and peace? That’s exactly how I found Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles. While looking for my next read, I came across Ikigai on Pinterest, and I’m glad I did!

This book explores the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai, which helps people live longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. In this review, I’ll share my personal insights, key takeaways, and why this book is a must-read for self-growth and slow living.

What is Ikigai ❓

The word Ikigai (生き甲斐) means "reason for being." It’s the Japanese secret to longevity and happiness, helping people live with passion and meaning. The book explains how the Okinawans, one of the world’s longest-living communities, apply this philosophy to their daily lives.

Why I Read Ikigai ❓

I came across Ikigai while looking for book suggestions on Pinterest. Since I love reading about self-growth and mindful living, I decided to give it a try. It’s a short book (around 200 pages), making it perfect for people who want to explore deep life lessons but aren’t big fans of reading lengthy books.

✨Key Lessons from Ikigai

1. Find Your Ikigai (Life Purpose & Passion) – Discover what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. This is the key to happiness and a meaningful life. 

2. Stay Active – Never Retire – Keep your mind and body engaged with meaningful work or hobbies to live a longer, healthier life. 

3. Follow the 80% Rule (Hara Hachi Bu) – Eat until you’re 80% full to maintain better digestion, energy, and a longer lifespan. 

4. Build Strong Relationships (Moai Culture) – Surround yourself with a supportive community to reduce stress and increase happiness. 

5. Embrace a Simple & Natural Life – Spend time in nature, avoid stress, and stay physically active through daily movement instead of intense exercise. 

6. Find Flow in What You Do – Work with deep focus and passion to increase productivity and enjoy what you do. 

7. Stay Positive & Practice Gratitude – A positive mindset and daily gratitude can improve mental health, emotional well-being, and overall happiness. 

Who Should Read Ikigai ❓

✔️ People looking for self-growth and purpose.

✔️ Those who enjoy slow, mindful living.

✔️Anyone who wants to read a short but powerful book. (Ikigai has only about 200 pages, making it perfect for people who don’t usually read long books).

Would I Recommend Ikigai ❓

Absolutely! Ikigai is a beautiful guide to happiness, longevity, and mindful living. I’d recommend it to anyone who wants to learn about Japanese wisdom, life purpose, and self-improvement. If you love books like Atomic Habits or The Power of Now, this book will definitely resonate with you.

Where to Buy Ikigai?

If you’re interested in reading Ikigai, you can grab a copy here:

➡️ Tap here to buy from Amazon

Ikigai is more than just a book—it’s a life philosophy. It taught me to let go of unnecessary worries, embrace slow living, and enjoy the present moment. Have you read Ikigai? Let me kn

ow your thoughts in the comments below!