We often hear the word “Ikigai.” It’s a Japanese concept that means your “reason for being” or the deeper purpose that motivates you each day. It’s also a guiding principle in Okinawa, where many people enjoy both longevity and well-being. In our work studying this region and meeting its residents, we noticed that certain daily practices kept appearing. These practices became what we now call the “10 rules of ikigai.”
Interested in a deeper breakdown of Ikigai’s main elements? Take a look at our article on the Four Pillars of Ikigai to understand how these practices fit into a broader framework. For an even clearer definition of this Japanese concept, see our write-up on Ikigai meaning. If you’d like a concise overview of the central ideas, visit our Ikigai Book Summary.
We’d like to share these rules with you. They come from the heart of Okinawan life. They also reflect Author’s personal experiences researching and writing Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life. By keeping these rules in mind, you can slowly shape a life that feels more meaningful and less rushed.
1. Stay Active; Don’t Retire
Retiring too early can cause our minds and bodies to become idle. In Okinawa, many people keep busy in small ways. Some tend a small garden; others help neighbors or care for grandchildren. This kind of active routine gives them purpose.
Q: Do I need a paying job to stay active?
A: Not necessarily. It’s more about feeling useful. You can volunteer, start a new hobby, or spend time teaching others what you know. Activity keeps your mind engaged and your spirit alive.
2. Take It Slow
We noticed that people in Okinawa rarely rush. They walk at a comfortable pace, greet neighbors, and savor small moments—like tea in the afternoon. This slow rhythm lowers stress, which supports better health over time.
You might compare this to fast-paced urban life, where days move quickly. If we always hurry, we lose the joy of the present. By slowing down, we can notice more details and feel calmer. It takes practice, but it can transform our day-to-day routines.
3. Don’t Fill Your Stomach
“Hara hachi bu” is the habit of eating until you’re about 80% full. We saw this firsthand in Okinawa. People would serve themselves smaller portions and stop before feeling stuffed. This approach differs from many Western habits, where large servings are common.
Overeating can lead to health problems. Eating in moderation helps digestion and gives us more energy. Try pausing halfway through a meal and checking if you’re still hungry. You might find you’re satisfied sooner than you expect.
4. Surround Yourself with Good Friends
Social connections matter. In many Okinawan villages, people form a “moai,” or a close-knit group of friends. They meet regularly, support one another, and celebrate life’s moments—big or small. This community bond helps reduce loneliness.
Having good friends also boosts our sense of belonging. It can be as simple as having a weekly meetup or sharing a walk. If you feel isolated, try reconnecting with old friends or joining a local group. Meaningful friendships enrich our lives.
5. Get in Shape for Your Next Birthday
Physical activity is crucial for staying healthy and strong. Many Okinawans don’t go to gyms, but they walk, do gardening, or even practice gentle exercises like tai chi.
Q: Does it have to be intense exercise?
A: Not at all. Consistent, moderate movement can be enough. You could do light stretches in the morning or go for a short walk each day. Over time, these small steps keep your body engaged. Think of it as preparation for celebrating your next birthday with vigor.
6. Smile
A genuine smile can ease tension. Okinawans tend to have a warm, welcoming nature. They greet neighbors with a kind expression. Smiling doesn’t mean ignoring hard times; rather, it’s a way to stay optimistic in the face of challenges.
When we smile, we signal to our brains that we’re safe. This can help lower stress. If you find it difficult to smile, think of something or someone you’re grateful for. Even a brief shift in focus can brighten your outlook.
7. Reconnect with Nature
In our travels, we noticed many people taking time to be outdoors. Some grew vegetables; others simply enjoyed the fresh air. Nature offers calm. It also reminds us that life moves in cycles—day to night, winter to spring.
Some people call this “forest bathing” or “Shinrin-yoku.” You don’t need a large forest to benefit. Even a small park can help. When you slow down and listen to birds or feel a breeze, you’re more present. This presence supports clarity and relaxation.
8. Give Thanks
Gratitude is a key part of the Okinawan mindset. People give thanks to ancestors, friends, and nature. This habit of looking at what’s good in life feeds the spirit. It also promotes a mindset of abundance, rather than scarcity.
You might create a simple gratitude ritual. Each morning, say or write down something you appreciate. It could be your health, a meal you enjoyed, or the support of a friend. This quiet practice can shape your day ahead.
9. Live in the Moment
Mindfulness is central to ikigai. When we’re present, we value the small details of everyday life. We’re less likely to worry about the past or future. Instead, we observe what’s happening around us.
Q: How can I start living in the moment?
A: You can begin by focusing on one daily task—like washing dishes or brewing tea—and doing it with your full attention. Notice the sounds, smells, and sensations. Gradually, you might expand this awareness to other parts of your day.
10. Follow Your Ikigai
Having a guiding purpose ties all the other rules together. Some discover their ikigai through work or art. Others find it in caring for family. It might be a hobby, a craft, or a volunteer role. When you align with your ikigai, your life feels richer.
Think about times when you felt most alive. Was it while helping a friend, writing a poem, or cooking a comforting meal? Those clues can point to your ikigai. Once you find it, you may feel a gentle pull toward activities that deepen it.
Conclusion
We’ve shared these 10 rules of ikigai as a roadmap. They remind us to stay active, remain connected, and live each day with purpose. They also show us how something as simple as smiling or eating until 80% full can make a real difference in our well-being.
Consider trying one rule that resonates most with you. Maybe it’s going for a short walk or planning a small get-together with friends. If you enjoy it, keep going. Over time, these small changes may help you nurture your own ikigai and embrace a life of meaning and balance.
