"IKIGAI And Other Japanese Methods For Long Life.
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Japanese people never get
sick & live to 100+ while: • Barely exercising • Drinking & smoking • Eating tons of carbs
The differences in health are
remarkable. Japan: • Have a life expectancy ~8
years more than the US • Spend around half as much
on healthcare • Are around 10x less obese. It's astounding. But on the surface, they don't seem that healthy. How do they do it? |
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1.
It starts
with a concept called "Hara Hachi Bu". This
2500-year-old Confucian teaching instructs people to eat until they're 80%
full. But it's more than just portion control. It's about mindful eating and
listening to your body. The result? Japanese people consume about 25% fewer calories than Americans. Yet they feel more satisfied after meals. Why? Because they're not just eating less, they're eating better. Let's break down the Japanese diet: |
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2. Fermented foods
Miso, natto, pickled vegetables. These aren't just tasty. They're probiotic powerhouses.
Studies show fermented foods can: • Boost immune function • Improve digestion • Fight depression |
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3. Green tea The average Japanese person drinks 5 cups a day. It's
loaded with "catechins", antioxidants that: • Boost metabolism • Reduce inflammation • Protect against cancer But the real kicker is that green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation without drowsiness. This might explain why Japanese people can smoke and drink, yet still seem less stressed. |
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4. "Ikigai" This Japanese concept roughly translates to
"reason for being". It's about finding purpose in life, no matter
how small. Studies show people with a strong sense of purpose live longer and
healthier lives. But how does this translate to everyday life? In Japan, retirement isn't
the end goal. Many people work well into their 80s and 90s, not out of
necessity, but choice. They stay engaged, contributing to society. This leads
to better cognitive health and lower rates of depression. |
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5. "Incidental exercise" Japanese cities are designed for walking and cycling.
The average Tokyo resident walks 7km a day! This isn't intense cardio, but
consistent, low-impact movement. It keeps metabolism high without stressing
the body. |
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6. Social connections Japan has a strong culture of community and family
ties. Regular social interactions reduce stress, boost immune function, and
promote longevity. In fact, Okinawa (home to many centenarians) has a
tradition called "moai". Moai are social support groups that last for life. Members meet regularly, providing emotional and even financial support. This sense of belonging and purpose is a powerful antidote to the isolation many face in modern societies. So, what can we learn from all this? |
