The Role of Ikigai in Living Well with Illness
Ikigai is a Japanese word that means something like, “a reason to get up in the morning.” What lifts your spirits? What gives your life meaning? In Japan, Ikigai is an attribute of longevity. I consider it an attribute of living well with illness. Ikigai is not positive thinking rather it is about purpose. What are things you consider important to do, while you have the chance? Nothing changes without action. Ikigai is about taking action- small steps- everyday that allow you to flourish under all circumstances.