Introduction

Ikigai, a Japanese concept that can be translated as "reason for being," is one of the secrets to long life. The Japanese enjoy a healthy lifestyle and their centenarians are the largest in the world. Their lifestyle is called ikigai and it consists of following simple daily habits that help them live longer lives. In this post, we'll explain what ikigai is, how it helps people live longer lives, and how you can bring some of its principles into your own life.

What is IKIGAI?

IKIGAI is a Japanese word meaning “a reason for being.” It’s also the secret to a long and healthy life. It’s everything you live for. IKIGAI is what gets you out of bed in the morning, gets you through hard times, makes your day brighter, and gives you purpose and meaning in life.

The life expectancy of the Japanese and the influence of Ikigai

So, how do Japanese people live so long? It's not just because of their diet or culture. Experts believe that the answer lies in the concept of Ikigai—a unique way of life that has been passed down through generations and continues to this day.

Ikigai is a Japanese word that means “a reason for being” or “the pursuit of what makes you happy.” In other words, it's something you love doing so much that you don't even notice it as work—it becomes part of your daily routine and enriches your life on many levels: emotionally, mentally, physically…and even spiritually if you believe in such things!

IKIGAI and Okinawans

  • Okinawans are known for their long life expectancy.
  • The island of Okinawa has the highest average life expectancy in Japan, with a woman's average lifespan at 86 years and a man's at 80 years. This is significantly higher than the Japanese national average of 80 years for women and 76 years for men (and even lower if you're living in mainland Japan).
  • They have a high life expectancy.
  • Okinawans also live healthier lives than most people in Japan: they have been found to have lower rates of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes than mainlanders; they smoke less; they exercise more regularly, and they eat more fruits and vegetables than in many other Asian countries. What makes them so healthy? It may be due to their Ikigai — a concept that means "a reason for being" or "the purpose of one's existence."

What is the secret of longevity in Okinawa?

One thing that Okinawans have in common with all of the happiest people, according to numerous studies, is a positive attitude. The Okinawans are known for their low-stress levels and a relaxed way of life that allows them to live longer than most people in the world.

They also have a healthy diet, physical activity, and a strong sense of community—all factors that contribute to longevity and happiness!

The Okinawa Centenarian Study has been ongoing since 1995 when researchers began tracking the health habits and genetics of over 1,300 residents aged 65 or older (and still alive) on Okinawa Island. They wanted to find out why so many people lived longer than average Japanese citizens who did not live on Okinawa Island.

This study found:

  • Okinawans eat less saturated fat than Americans do;
  • Guava fruit has more anti-aging qualities than any other fruit;
  • Rice wine contains more antioxidants (that fight cancer) than red wine does;

Benefits of IKIGAI

Studies have shown that people who are more aware of their Ikigai have longer, healthier lives.

Ikigai has been found to improve mental health and well-being, physical health, relationships with others, work performance, and happiness.

Don't know what your ikigai is? Find it and live a long healthy life!

It's a life philosophy that holds that everyone has their purpose in life and that it's important to find and live out this purpose.

In general, people with an ikigai tend to be happier, healthier, and have longer lives than their peers who don't have one. Here are some tips on how you can find your own:

Think about what makes you happy. Do you love animals? Are you good at writing poetry? Do people think of you as a great cook? These are all things worth considering when looking for your passion or purpose in life.

Look back at the past few years of your life. Think about the major events that happened during these times—did any of them stand out as particularly meaningful for some reason? This may help point out something about yourself that could help lead toward an ikigai!

Conclusion

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