Ikigai: “The Japanese Secret to a Long and

Happy Life”
By Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles

Book Review
Presented by - Medha Mathur, Vaishnavi Prakash
What does ikigai mean?
Ikigai is a Japanese term that blends two words:
“iki” meaning “to live,” and “gai” meaning “reason,”
which translates to “a reason to live.” It's a concept
that encourages people to discover what truly
matters to them and to live a life filled with purpose
and joy.
Introduction
Ikigai is a beautifully nuanced concept, rooted in Japanese culture and can be translated as “the
happiness of always being busy”.
Written by the Spanish health and lifestyle authors; Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles, one of
their many books on Japanese culture, Ikigai is a self-improvement book about finding meaning in
life and how having a sense of purpose contributes to longevity.
About the Authors
Hector Gracia and Francesc Miralles both are Spanish authors,
whereas Hector Gracia is a software engineer who has lived in
Japan for many years inspired from the living culture of Japan and
its technology, he has extensive experience in the country.
Also, Francesc Miralles, is a journalist and psychologist known for
its work in personal development and spirituality. He has written
several bestselling exploring themes of happiness and personal
growth.

Together they bring their unique backgrounds to explore the

concept of ‘IKIGAI’ blending insights from japanese culture.
Summary

The book is structured around various aspects of ikigai, including finding what you love, what
the world needs, what you can be paid for, and what you are good at.
The book examines how this concept can contribute to a fulfilling, purposeful, and long life.
Drawing from the culture and practices of Okinawa, Japan, an area known for its high number of
centenarians, the authors seek to understand what makes this region unique and how its
principles can be applied to everyday life.
What are the 4 rules of ikigai?

The four rules of ikigai is summarized in the ikigai diagram, which is a visual tool to help
you find your ikigai. The rules are about discovering:

Your passion (what you love)

Your vocation (what you're good at)
Your mission (what the world needs)
Your profession (what you can be paid for)
Analysis

"Ikigai" offers a refreshing perspective on happiness

and fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of
aligning one's passions, talents, and contributions to
society. The authors draw from both Eastern
philosophy and Western psychology to provide a
comprehensive understanding of ikigai, making it
accessible to a diverse audience.
Key Takeaways

Purposeful Living : The book underscores the significance of living with purpose and
intention, encouraging readers to reflect on what truly drives them.
Balance and Harmony : Ikigai emphasizes the balance between work, leisure, and
personal fulfillment, promoting a holistic approach to life.
Mindfulness and Presence : Practicing mindfulness and being present in each moment
are highlighted as essential components of experiencing ikigai.
Community and Connection : Cultivating meaningful relationships and contributing to
the well-being of others are integral to finding and living one's ikigai.
Conclusion:

"Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life"

offers valuable insights and practical guidance for anyone
seeking a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Whether you're at a crossroads in your career or simply
looking to infuse more meaning into your daily routine,
this book serves as a roadmap to discovering and
embracing your own ikigai.
Thank you