Ikigai and Yoga: Finding purpose and happiness on life's journey
Stress and uncertainty often overshadow our growth, with many of us seeking deeper meaning and fulfillment.
If you have ever explored the path of yoga, you are already familiar with how it can calm the mind and nurture the soul. But have you ever heard of Ikigai?
It is a Japanese concept that, when combined with yoga, can help us not only live longer but also live with deep meaning and joy.
What is Ikigai?
Ikigai is a Japanese word that translates to "reason for being." It is the idea that each person has a unique reason for getting up in the morning - something worth living for. This concept combines four key elements:
- What you love (passion)
- What you are good at (vocation)
- What the world needs (mission)
- What you can get paid for (vocation)
Where these elements overlap is your Ikigai. When you find it, you are said to have discovered the key to a longer, happier, and more satisfying life. It's no coincidence that the people of Okinawa, where this concept originated, are among the longest-lived inhabitants on Earth.
The connection between Ikigai and yoga
At first glance, ikigai and yoga may seem like two different worlds, but they have a deep connection. They both offer a path to self-knowledge and balance and support us in living an authentic and conscious life.
Yoga in its deepest sense is not just about physical postures (asanas). It is a holistic system that integrates mind, body, and spirit. The ultimate goal is unification- the merging of the self with the greater cosmic consciousness. On this path, yoga teaches us to observe our inner world, align our actions with our values, and live with intention.
Similarly, Ikigai is about living in harmony with ourselves and the world around us. It challenges you to align your daily activities with your deepest passions, strengths and the needs of society. The practice of Ikigai is essentially an extension of the yogic principles of dharma (purposefulness) and seva (selfless service).
Example from life: Finding Ikigai through yoga
Take the story of Caroline, a yoga teacher who found herself burnt out and questioning her life direction. She loved teaching yoga but struggled with the business side of things and felt disconnected from her community. After a deep dive into self-reflection, she discovered that her Ikigai was not just about teaching yoga - it was about mentoring others to find healing through the practice. By shifting her focus to therapeutic yoga and creating community workshops, she revitalized her passion, helped people in new ways, and found a more sustainable way to make a living. This realignment has given her a purpose and energy she had not experienced before.
Her journey reflects the synergy between yoga and Ikigai. Caroline has used her practice not only as a method of self-care but also as a tool to discover how she can contribute meaningfully to others while remaining true to herself.
Tips for finding your ikigai through yoga
1.Practice self-inquiry: Yoga teaches us to ask deep questions through meditation and reflection. Use this time to explore what really lights you up. What activities make you lose track of time? What brings you joy when no one else is looking?
2. Identify your strengths: Whether you practice on the mat or in life, pay attention to what you naturally excel at. Yoga teaches us to honor our unique bodies and abilities. In life, this means recognizing what we are naturally good at and letting that guide us towards our goals.
3. Seek community and connection: Yoga helps us cultivate a sense of oneness, both within ourselves and with others. Explore how your purpose can contribute to the well-being of your community. Think about the needs in your community and how your passions can meet them.
4. Embrace change and evolution: Yoga and Ikigai are about continuous growth. Just as your yoga practice evolves, your Ikigai may change over time. Be open to new opportunities and remember that the destination is not always fixed - it is a journey.
Facts about Ikigai and longevity
- The Japanese island of Okinawa is often referred to as the "land of the immortals" because of the high concentration of centenarians (people who live to be over 100 years old). One key reason is that many Okinawans live by the principles of Ikigai. They wake up with a sense of purpose and contribute to their community even in their old age.
- Studies show that a sense of purpose can add years to your life. Research published in The Lancet found that people with a strong sense of purpose are more likely to maintain good health, stay socially connected and avoid chronic disease.
- Similarly, yoga is known to promote longevity by reducing stress, improving cardiovascular health, and increasing mindfulness, which contributes to overall well-being. The combination of the health benefits of yoga and the sense of purpose provided by Ikigai can create an effective recipe for a long and meaningful life.
How to incorporate Ikigai into your yoga practice
1.Start small: As with yoga, Ikigai doesn't have to be something grand right away. It's okay to start with small, meaningful changes. For example, if you love art and yoga, you might explore mindful art practices like drawing mandalas as a form of meditation.
2. Set an intention: Every time you step onto your yoga mat, set an intention related to your ikigai. For example, you may be dedicated to developing a new skill or exploring what you want to contribute to the world.
3. Reflect on your day: At the end of each day, take a few minutes to reflect on whether your actions were in line with your intention. Journaling can be a useful tool for this. Did you spend time doing what you love? Did you contribute to something bigger than yourself?
Joy of life ikigai
Living in alignment with your Ikigai brings a deep sense of fulfillment that goes beyond material success.
Just as yoga brings peace of mind and strength to the body, Ikigai brings clarity to your life purpose. The path of yoga helps us connect with our inner self, and Ikigai helps us translate that connection into meaningful action in the world.
By combining the principles of Ikigai with the teachings of yoga, you can cultivate a life that is not only long but also rich in happiness, meaning, and peace.
The next time you unroll your mat, remember: your practice can be more than a physical journey-it can be a journey to discover the true reason for your being.
How familiar are you with this concept? Do you focus on it during your yoga journey?
Let me know more in the comments...
