Ikigai

Outline

Ikigai (2016) explores the Japanese idea of ikigai, often described as a reason for being, and what it can teach about living a long and happy life. Héctor García and Francesc Miralles visited Okinawa, home to some of the world’s longest-living people, and share lessons on purpose, friendship, healthy eating, staying active, and staying fully engaged in the present. The book became an international bestseller.

• Ikigai is a Japanese idea, often described as a reason for being, that can help shape a long and happy life.
• The authors visited Okinawa, home to some of the world's longest-living people, to learn how they live.
• Purpose and strong friendships are presented as central to a fulfilling life.
• Healthy eating and staying physically active are part of the lifestyle the book describes.
• Staying fully engaged in the present is one of the lessons drawn from Okinawa.

Héctor García and Francesc Miralles are Spanish authors who write about happiness, purpose, and Japanese culture. García has lived in Japan for many years and writes widely about Japanese life and philosophy. Miralles is a writer and journalist from Barcelona who has written many books on personal growth. Their joint books include Ikigai and The Book of Ichigo Ichie.