The book Ikigai, co-authored by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles, offers a profound look into the Japanese secret to a long...
BOOK REVIEW
Book: Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life
Authors: Héctor García and Francesc Miralles
Reviewed by: Ayesha Aslam
The book Ikigai, co-authored by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles, offers a profound look into the Japanese secret to a long, purposeful, and happy life. Published in 2016, the book explores self-care and personal development by delving into Asian lifestyle habits and concepts.
The authors define “ikigai” as the intersection of four vital pillars: what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be rewarded for. When these elements align, a person discovers their true purpose, which provides a sense of direction and fulfilment that transcends daily stresses.
The narrative takes readers to the village of Okinawa, Japan, where life expectancy is among the highest in the world. A central secret shared by the residents is the practice of
“hara hachi bu”, an ancient philosophy of eating only until one is 80 percent full to avoid taxing the body.
Furthermore, the book emphasises that longevity is not just about diet, but also about “flow” – the state of being completely immersed in a meaningful task. Whether it is gardening, crafting, or helping others, staying busy with things we love keeps the mind young and the spirit resilient.
Community and emotional connection are also presented as essential components of a long life. The authors describe the Moai, a social support group where neighbours provide emotional and even financial help to one another, ensuring that no one ever feels alone. By prioritising deep friendships, maintaining a smile regardless of hardships, and helping those around us, we can cultivate a life of meaning.
The ultimate message of this book is that by finding your
ikigai and nurturing your connections with others, you can unlock a path
to lasting health and happiness.
