The Secret of Japanese Longevity

Every day people look for the Internet, in books and wherever possible, different secrets of longevity and rejuvenation. This is easy to explain: everyone wants to live as long as possible. Statistics show that this is best done by the Japanese. They have long established their leading position in the number of centenarians on the planet.

155168



I love Japanese beauty and rejuvenation secrets, so I always look for the most interesting things. Of course, I could not pass by another fact from the life of this amazing people. It is hard to call it the secret of longevity, rather it is a lifestyle.

There are many studies that say that the cause of longevity in a special diet, others say that it is all a feature of lifestyle and exercise. Without it, a healthy and long life is impossible, but the secret is not only this.

Studies have shown that the highest percentage of centenarians on the island of Okinawa. The average life expectancy for men is 88 years and for women is 92 years. At first glance, the island is not unusual: typical Japanese food, normal climate. But the differences are actually striking.





It's all about life philosophy. Most Okinawans have found their ikigai or are on their way to finding it. What is this? Let's figure it out.

In the most formal translation, it is the meaning of life. Although I personally believe that this interpretation does not express the whole essence of the concept of ikigai. It would be better to say that this is what makes us wake up in the morning with joy. Roughly speaking, what gives meaning to every day is your reason to live.





Finding your ikigai means finding something that makes life meaningful. The Japanese believe that when a person opens his ikigai, every day becomes joyful. People are eager to start their business, because this is their favorite occupation.

Every minute of a person’s life is filled with meaning and peace. He clearly understands why he is doing something. A person feels necessary and full of strength.





These people know how to enjoy life, enjoy the little things. They can enjoy a leisurely tea ceremony, watching birds fly by or a beautiful sunset. It is the ability to see and pass this beauty through. The inhabitants of Okinawa do not set a goal to become centenarians, simply cannot do otherwise, because they are needed, and therefore alive.





There is no clear instruction, you must develop it for yourself. Only you know where to look and what. Look at life from different angles, look into the most secret corners of your soul, the answer is hidden there. I think the most important thing is to set a goal, start a search, and sooner or later you will get an answer.

First, you need to answer 4 questions. These should be honest and detailed answers.

  1. What do you like to do?
    Here you need to write absolutely everything, do not dwell on a couple of points. You can't remember everything at once, it takes time. Go back to those records over and over and add new items. Write down everything that comes to mind, and then highlight what you like the most.
  2. What can you do?
    I've listed everything except the very basic things. It's more about your skills. Write everything down, even if it’s different.



  3. What do you get paid for?
    You can write down what you make now, and everything else you've ever been paid for. Think of even the smallest projects.
  4. What do people want?
    Here you need to list the actions that make your loved ones happy.





Write your answers without checking the previous ones. Answer the questions honestly, do not dwell on the wording, just write down what you think. You can spend as much time as you want. Once the list is complete, look for common ground.

In the end, schematically it will look like in this picture. In the middle of it all, it's your ikigai. It's not a day's work, it'll take a lot of time, but don't deny yourself that. If everything is successful, your life will take on new colors.





Start small, don’t try to change everything at once. Understand what you lack, what you would like to change, and go to it in small steps. Each of these little things will be a little brick to your dream. Move slowly and you will reach the top. We believe that you will be able to find your ikigai and become a happy longevity!

The Japanese are an amazing nation. I am particularly impressed by their way of life and thinking. Very different from ours!

Recently, we shared with you the secrets of a happy life of 105-year-old doctor from Japan Shigeaki Hinohara. He has a lot to learn!

And do not forget about the golden rules of healthy and long life of the Japanese healer Katsuzo Nishi. They're always relevant.

Have you started looking for your ikigai yet? Tell me in the comments.