Ikigai: The Japanese 100+ Year-Old Secret to Happiness and Longevity by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles is a book inspired by their own lives and findings that takes you through the Japanese concept of ikigai (“a reason for being”). This book traces this philosophy, and its connection with how the Japanese live so long but still find purpose and meaning — particularly noting how it has made Okinawans, some of the oldest people alive. This book is easy enough for anyone to read yet profound in its lessons about finding meaning and happiness in daily life.

Ikigai is what makes Ikigai different: the combination of time-tested cultural revelation and actionable advice. The authors also discuss the characteristics of Okinawan culture perhaps least noticed, but notorious characteristics. As an example and the concept of moai, social ties of close-knit social groups — highlight that social nature & mutual assistance are critical for mental well-being. An additional thing is the eating practice of “hara hachi bu,” which you could do until only approximately eighty percent consumed promotes a better relationship with meals. It also talks about how the Japanese revere nature, particularly their love for cherry blossoms which is a metaphor for the transience of life. While that makes the book culturally stimulating, many of these cases can be very relatable. 

Ikigai illustrates balance, or finding a healthy balance between work, relationships, and striving for progression which leads to true happiness. Unlike most self-help books, Ikigai does not offer a tip or a trick but is more about understanding that nobody knows everything and that one never completely quits looking for their passion and purpose in this life. The book teaches, literally from the lessons that you can fit joy in small activities or be energized through hobbies. It speaks to the impermanence of life, tells us to simply live, to perform what is important in our lives, and is the must-check title for anyone who wants to connect on a deeper level with themselves as a human being or the universe.