Ikigai The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life By Francesc Miralles

Description

Why do some of the world’s oldest and healthiest people live on the Japanese island of Okinawa? The answer, according to authors Francesc Miralles and Héctor García, lies in the concept of ikigai—a reason to wake up in the morning, a purpose that gives meaning and energy to life.

In Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life, the authors travel to Ogimi, a village in Okinawa known for having the highest life expectancy in the world, to uncover what makes its residents live not only long lives—but also happy, fulfilling ones.

The result is a beautifully written guide that blends Japanese wisdom, mindfulness, healthy living, and emotional resilience. Unlike typical self-help books, Ikigai is less about chasing success and more about living with balance and intentionality.

Drawing from interviews with centenarians and supported by insights from psychologists, philosophers, and nutritionists, this book uncovers how small, sustainable habits—combined with deep social connections and meaningful work—can dramatically enhance your quality of life.

What You’ll Learn from This Book

• Discover your ikigai: Learn how to identify the intersection between what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.

• Cultivate longevity habits: Gain insights into the diets, routines, and mentalities of Okinawa’s longest-living people.

• Stay active and connected: Understand the importance of gentle movement, social ties, and community engagement.

• Manage stress: Adopt Japanese practices like hara hachi bu (eating until 80% full), wabi-sabi (finding beauty in imperfection), and shikata ga nai (acceptance of what cannot be changed).

Notable Quotes

“Only staying active will make you want to live a hundred years.”
“Your ikigai is at the intersection of what you are good at and what you love doing.”
“Worry as little as possible. Avoid stress and strive for a balanced life.”

These insights, shared by the elders of Okinawa and framed by the authors’ careful research, offer a calming and practical roadmap for anyone seeking clarity, meaning, and longevity.

About the Authors

Francesc Miralles is an award-winning author and expert in Eastern philosophy and spirituality. Héctor García, a Spanish engineer who has lived in Japan for over a decade, is also the author of A Geek in Japan. Together, they bring a unique cultural perspective that bridges East and West, tradition and science.

Their collaboration in Ikigai has sparked a global movement, with the book being translated into over 50 languages and inspiring people worldwide to live with intention.

Who Should Read This Book

This book is perfect for:

• Anyone seeking more meaning and joy in everyday life

• Readers interested in Japanese culture and philosophy

• Fans of mindfulness, simplicity, and self-awareness

• Individuals looking to develop better daily habits

• Anyone inspired by the science and art of longevity

Whether you’re rethinking your work, your routine, or your priorities, Ikigai offers gentle, life-changing wisdom you can carry with you for years to come.

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ISBN and Book Details

• ISBN-13: 9780143130727

• Publisher: Penguin Books

• Publication Year: 2017

• Pages: 208

• Language: English

• Binding: Paperback

At Jumpbook.lk, we believe in books that not only inform but transform. Ikigai is one of those rare titles that touches your heart while helping you live better, longer, and with more purpose.