What makes work fulfilling? For some, work becomes a lifelong dedication. While it may seem extraordinary to others, discovering work that holds meaning transforms it from mere labour into a profound sense of purpose, invoking a feeling of Yarigai. In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick discusses with Professor Hiroshi Nishigori how individuals can uncover meaning and fulfilment in their professional lives ..read more

How do individuals suffering from social isolation cope? In Japan, there is a sociological phenomenon known as hikikomori, where individuals shut themselves in their rooms, avoiding any form of social interaction. Despite its prevalence, this issue has not received much attention. In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick talks with Naomi Berman about the causes and effects of hikikomori in Japanese society ..read more

Have you taken a moment to reflect and see the beauty of life? The art of haiku is a wonderful way to be present and express your feelings in the moment. It allows us to savour each fleeting experience, capturing the essence of now. In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick welcomes back Misako Yoke to explore the wabi-sabi of haiku ..read more

Have you heard of Mieko Kamiya and her contributions to the concept of ikigai? Not known to many, Japanese researcher Mieko Kamiya committed to researching the concept of ikigai in-depth, making her works valuable for those seeking a deeper understanding of the concept. In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick and Kei Tsuda delved into the remarkable contributions of Mieko Kamiya to the concept of ikigai ..read more

How can practices like martial arts lead to life transformation? While martial arts are often associated primarily with self-defense, their potential goes far beyond mere protection. Delving deeper into the practice reveals a multitude of benefits it can offer.  In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Adam Mitchell about how mastering martial arts can provide a sense of fulfilment and direction in life ..read more

How can we incorporate Zen eating into our lives? Food is an essential aspect of life, providing nourishment and sustaining us daily. However, it's crucial to be mindful not only of what we eat but also how we consume it. Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, we often overlook the significance of the act of eating. This is where the practice of Zen eating becomes invaluable. In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Momoe about strategies for integrating Zen eating into our lives ..read more

Do you have a healthy relationship with food? Many of us struggle with health issues due to the food we eat. This may result from not paying enough attention to what we put into our bodies. That's why it's crucial to take our eating habits seriously, as they can significantly impact our overall well-being. In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick speaks with Momoe about the significance of practising mindfulness in our dietary choices, exploring the principles of Zen eating as a pathway to enhanced well-being ..read more

How can we lead a healthy and meaningful life? Striving for both health and meaning is essential for our overall well-being and fulfilment. Several factors may contribute to this, including our relationships, the environment we are in, and even our own values. In Japan, numerous concepts offer guidance toward achieving this balance. In this episode of the Ikigai Podcast, Nick and Mayumi Kojima delve into Japanese concepts that offer insights on achieving both physical well-being and a sense of purpose ..read more

When the path from astronaut dreams to IT expertise took an unexpected turn, Ikigai scholar Kei Tsuda found himself at the crossroads of purpose and profession. This episode unveils Kei's transformative journey, revealing how the pursuit of Ikigai can shape our lives.  Our discussion traverses the cultural landscapes of East and West, exploring how the Western craving for structured models like the Venn diagram clashes with the fluid, intrinsic understanding of Ikigai in Japan. Kei, initially a skeptic, now uses the Ikigai framework as a compass, guiding individuals towards a life rich w ..read more

Have you ever pondered what truly drives you in life, or how to find that sweet spot where passion meets purpose? Kei Tsuda, an Ikigai scholar and consultant with a rich cultural tapestry from Japan, joins us to unravel the enigma of Ikigai and its place in our quest for fulfillment.  Through Kei’s bicultural lens, we uncover the heart of this Japanese philosophy and distinguish it from its lesser-known counterpart, Yarigai. As Kei shares his personal narrative, the discussion illuminates how the concept of Ikigai is not just a cultural artifact but a living, breathing guide to finding j ..read more