Soni Kamaksha,IV B.Arch.D,STES’S Sinhgad College of Architecture,Pune-41
Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles is a beautifully crafted book that delves into the Japanese philosophy of finding one’s purpose, or “ikigai.” This concept, loosely translated as “reason for being,” is presented as a key to living a long, happy, and meaningful life. Drawing on wisdom from the Okinawan lifestyle, the book combines practical advice with cultural insights, making it both an inspiring read and a guide to self-discovery.
At its core, the book explains that ikigai lies at the intersection of four elements: what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. The balance of these components provides a roadmap for finding purpose and fulfillment. By identifying one’s ikigai, the authors argue, individuals can unlock a life of happiness and longevity. One of the most compelling aspects of the book is its focus on the people of Okinawa, Japan, known for their extraordinary longevity. Okinawa boasts one of the highest concentrations of centenarians in the world, and their lifestyles serve as a key source of inspiration. The authors uncover habits such as a plant-based diet, regular physical activity, strong social bonds, and a sense of community, collectively contributing to their health and happiness. These lessons are not rigid rules but flexible principles that readers can adapt to their own lives.
The book also delves into the importance of “flow,” a state of being fully immersed in an activity, often described as losing track of time because you are completely engaged. The authors argue that achieving flow in daily activities is essential for cultivating happiness and living a life of purpose. They encourage readers to identify tasks that bring them joy and fulfillment, even if they appear small or routine.
Another notable theme is resilience. The authors emphasize the importance of embracing life’s challenges with grace and adaptability. Through anecdotes and examples, they highlight how a clear sense of purpose helps individuals overcome obstacles and maintain a positive outlook. This resilience is especially relevant in today’s fast-paced and often stressful world, where people struggle to find balance and meaning.
The writing style of Ikigai is simple and accessible, making it an easy read for a wide audience. The authors combine philosophical insights with practical tips, such as adopting healthier habits, practicing mindfulness, waking up early, and building meaningful relationships. These small but impactful changes are presented as stepping stones toward a more fulfilling life.
However, the book is not without its shortcomings. Some readers might find the content repetitive, as certain concepts are reiterated throughout the chapters. Additionally, critics argue that the book occasionally oversimplifies Japanese cultural practices and lacks depth in its exploration of the ikigai philosophy. While these issues may detract from the experience for some, they do not overshadow the book’s overall message of hope and inspiration.
Despite its limitations, Ikigai remains a valuable read for those seeking purpose and direction in life. It offers a fresh perspective on how to approach everyday living, urging readers to focus on what truly matters. The book does not claim to provide a one-size-fits-all solution but instead encourages introspection and gradual change.
In conclusion, Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life is a thought-provoking and uplifting book that bridges the gap between Japanese wisdom and modern self-help. It inspires readers to reflect on their own lives, discover their passions, and pursue a more meaningful existence. Whether you are at a crossroads in life or simply curious about the Japanese way of living, this book offers valuable insights and practical guidance. While it may not provide exhaustive answers, it succeeds in motivating readers to take the first steps toward their own ikigai.

Student Name: Atharav Patil
College : Sinhgad College of Engineering

Review of “Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life” by Francesc Miralles and Hector Garcia
“Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life,” written by Francesc Miralles and Hector Garcia, is a delightful exploration into the Japanese concept of ikigai, which translates to “a reason for being.” This book is a blend of cultural insight, philosophical musings, and practical advice, making it both an enlightening and engaging read.
The authors begin by introducing the concept of ikigai, which is the Japanese idea of finding a purpose or a reason to wake up every morning. They explain that ikigai is not just about grand ambitions but also the small joys and motivations that make life worth living. This sets the tone for the rest of the book, which is a journey into understanding how finding one’s ikigai can lead to a long, healthy, and happy life.
One of the book’s strengths is its accessibility. Miralles and Garcia do an excellent job of breaking down complex ideas into simple, relatable terms. They weave together anecdotes from Japanese culture, scientific research on longevity, and interviews with centenarians from the Japanese island of Okinawa, known for its high concentration of people living over 100 years. These personal stories add a rich, human touch to the theoretical concepts and provide practical examples of ikigai in action.
The authors delve into various aspects of life where ikigai can be applied. They cover a wide range of topics, including work, relationships, hobbies, and health. Each chapter offers insights on how to identify and nurture one’s ikigai in these areas. The chapter on work, for instance, emphasizes the importance of finding joy and purpose in what one does, rather than merely working for the sake of earning a living. This is particularly relevant in today’s fast-paced, achievement-oriented society.
The book also highlights the importance of community and social connections. In Okinawa, the authors observe how strong social bonds and a sense of belonging contribute significantly to the residents’ happiness and longevity. They describe the concept of “moai,” or informal social groups that provide mutual support, which is a key factor in the residents’ sense of security and well-being. This reinforces the idea that ikigai is not just about individual pursuits but also about fostering meaningful relationships and contributing to the community.
Miralles and Garcia provide practical tips and exercises to help readers discover their own ikigai. These include self-reflection questions, lifestyle changes, and mindfulness practices. The exercises are designed to be simple yet effective, encouraging readers to take small, manageable steps toward a more fulfilling life. This pragmatic approach makes the book not only inspiring but also actionable.
The writing style is warm and conversational, making the book an easy and enjoyable read. The authors’ passion for the subject is evident throughout, and their positive, encouraging tone is infectious. The book is also beautifully designed, with thoughtful layout and charming illustrations that enhance the reading experience.
One potential critique of the book is that it occasionally ventures into territory that may feel overly simplistic or idealistic. The concept of ikigai is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, and while the authors do a commendable job of making it accessible to a global audience, some readers might find the application of these principles to their own lives challenging without a deeper cultural understanding.
In conclusion, “Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life” is a thought-provoking and uplifting book that offers valuable insights into leading a more purposeful and contented life. Miralles and Garcia’s exploration of ikigai is both informative and inspiring, providing readers with the tools and motivation to discover their own reasons for being. Whether you are seeking to improve your well-being, find greater satisfaction in your work, or simply looking for a fresh perspective on life, this book is a worthy addition to your reading list.

Name: Dr. (Mrs.) Kulkarni Aditi Shrinivas (Asso. Professor)
Smt. Kashibai Navale College of Pharmacy,
Kondhwa, Pune

“Ikigai” explores the Japanese idea of meaning and purpose in life in a thought-provoking book. The authors Francesc Miralles and Héctor García examine the Okinawans’ methods for living long and contented lives.
Important Takeaways:
Ikigai: Finding Your Purpose, which presents the idea of ikigai, which basically means “reason for being.” It’s where your skills, passions, the needs of the world, and your ability to get rewarded all come together.
The Power of Flow: The writers talk about how essential it is to find things that make you feel totally immersed and forget about the passing of time.
Mindfulness and Presence: Ikigai stresses the virtue of forgetting about the past and the future and living in the present.
Community and Connection: The book highlights the value of building strong relationships with others, which is essential for a long and happy life.
Minimalist Lifestyle: The writers promote a straightforward, minimalist way of life that enables individuals to concentrate more on what truly counts.
Motivating Narratives: The boo k features uplifting accounts of individuals who have discovered their ikigai, including centenarians, artists, and entrepreneurs. These narratives demonstrate the various paths people can take to discover purpose and significance in their lives.
The book offers practical advice and exercises to help you discover your own ikigai. You’ll learn how to identify your passions, values, and strengths, and how to align them with your life’s purpose.
Conclusion:
“Ikigai” is a must-read for anyone seeking a more meaningful and fulfilling life. The book’s insights and practical advice will inspire you to reflect on your values, passions, and purpose. By applying the principles of ikigai, you’ll be well on your way to living a longer, happier, and more purpose-driven life.

Tareeka Rane Student TYBCA, Camp Education society’s Dr. Arvind B. Telang Senior College, Nigdi Pune

https://brlibrary.unipune.ac.in/?book-category=camp-education-societys-dr-arvind-b-telang-senior-college-of-arts

(more…)