From Ikigai to Wabi Sabi: 5 Japanese mindsets for a healthy lifestyle

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. 

Ikigai

At its core, Ikigai is about having a sense of purpose, a reason to get up in the morning. “Concepts like Ikigai bring a sense of direction to daily life. When your actions feel meaningful, there is less space for the mind to spiral into overthinking,” says Dr Shankar.

Instead of constantly questioning your choices, aligning your day with what matters to you can create a sense of calm and focus, she adds.

Wabi-Sabi

Perfectionism often fuels overthinking, endless loops of “what if” and “what could have been better.” Wabi-Sabi, the Japanese philosophy of embracing imperfection, offers a way out.

“When you stop striving for perfection and begin to accept situations as they are, you naturally reduce mental resistance,” explains Dr Shankar. “This shift allows you to appreciate the present moment instead of overanalysing it.”

Here’s how Ikigai calms an overthinking mind (Photo: Freepik)

Shinrin-yoku

Also known as “forest bathing,” Shinrin-yoku encourages spending mindful time in nature, and its benefits are backed by science.

“Shinrin-yoku has been shown to lower cortisol levels, reduce blood pressure, and ease anxiety,” says Dr Shankar. “It helps regulate the nervous system, which in turn reduces cognitive overload.”

Even short walks in green spaces, without distractions, can help reset your mental state, she adds.

Hara Hachi Bu

This lesser-known practice involves eating until you are about 80% full. While it may seem unrelated to mental health, it plays a subtle yet important role. “Hara hachi bu promotes mindful eating and prevents the sluggishness that often follows overeating,” Dr Shankar notes. “When your body feels lighter, your mind tends to feel clearer and less overwhelmed.”

Kintsugi and Oubaitori

Kintsugi, the art of repairing broken pottery with gold, symbolises embracing flaws, while Oubaitori encourages individuals not to compare themselves with others. “These ideas reduce self-criticism, which is a major driver of intrusive and repetitive thoughts,” explains Dr Shankar. “You may still have such thoughts, but over time, you become less reactive to them—and that’s where real change happens.”

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to.