Wellness Calendar: Wednesday 26 November

Ikigai

Ikigai is a Japanese term that merges two ideas together iki – life, a reason for living – with kai – the value or the fruits of your labour. Together they form the motivation to lead a fulfilling life.

Ikigai encourages people to follow their passions throughout their entire life (rather than slow down when it comes to retirement). Some people have termed this ‘the happiness in being kept busy,’ or the reason for getting out of bed in the morning.

How might this compare to the French phrases joie de vivre (the joy of living) and bon vivant (a person who lives a good life) or the Italian dolce vita (the sweet life). Do you have any saying or any basis on which to pursue contentment and fulfilment?

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