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GET INSPIRED AND FIND YOUR JOY

By October 1, 2018February 5th, 2019Health & Wellness

At Autumn’s first chill we want to light the fireplace and hibernate. Fall does have some advantages. We sleep better in cooler temperatures and all of the beautiful colours are good for our mood. It’s a great time to be with close friends and loved ones, snug in warm comfy clothes, sipping a hot drink. 

In the struggle to find the key to happiness, many cultures have embraced trends that focus on connectivity, being mindful and aware of what brings peace within. 

The Swedes call it Lagom, the Danes, Hygge and now the Japanese have Ikigai. It’s a lifestyle trend that promises to help one find their purpose in life. Ikigai is the opposite to isolation. It encourages us to actively embrace our passions and talents, our raison d’être. It is a practice sought by all generations, as found in a study by the IBM Institute. The study cited that 20% of Millennials, 21% of Gen X’s and 23% of Baby Boomers seek work they are passionate about as a long term goal.  

It also turns out that those with a sense of purpose in life are often healthier. Blending what you love to do with how you earn a living can be challenging. It requires time and focus to learn and develop skills. However, choosing the path to follow your interests can be freeing and lead to greater personal growth. 

This month take some time to embrace the philosophy of Ikigai, get outside and enjoy nature, explore your aspirations, laugh with friends and stay open to the possibilities.