I Read Japanese Philosophy for 30 Days, and Here’s What I Learned
A challenge of self improvement and resilience
I was tired.
I kept reading the same self help books talking about time management, motivation and meditations. I needed something new.
I was looking at my youtube recommendations when I came across a video about Miyamoto Musashi. I watched that 5 minute video with utter silence and by the end of it I knew I wanted to know more. That’s how I started reading more about Japanese philosophy — a journey that would not only immerse me in their timeless wisdom but would also transform the very fabric of my existence.
The 30-Day Challenge
To immerse myself in this wisdom and actually know more about the philosophy, I decided on a challenge: 30 days of dedicated reading and soul-searching. Each day was a new chapter, a fresh insight, and an opportunity to absorb the teachings of these revered philosophers. With each sunrise, I would dive into the world of a different philosopher, allowing their words to seep into my soul and challenge my worldview.
Here is the gist of the most influencial methods I came across. Implementing which has changed my outlook to challenges in life and made me embrace hardships.
Kaizen: The Power of Small Steps
Japanese philosophy introduced me to Kaizen — a philosophy of continuous improvement. It’s the idea that even the tiniest step forward, if taken consistently, can lead to incredible progress.
It wasn’t about grand transformations but rather the steady, relentless march toward betterment. It transformed my perspective, reminding me that the journey of self-improvement is a series of small, manageable steps rather than a single leap.
Ikigai: The Quest for Purpose
Ikigai, often described as one’s “reason for being,” captivated my soul. It’s about finding the intersection of what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.
This concept guided me towards aligning my actions with my deepest passions and values, leading me toward a life of fulfillment and purpose.
To explore Ikigai, start by reflecting on the following questions:
What do you love? What are your passions and interests?
What are you good at? What are your strengths and talents?
What does the world need? What can you contribute to make the world better?
What can you be paid for? What is a viable career or profession aligned with your interests and skills?
Shinrin-Yoku: Nature’s Embrace
Shinrin-Yoku, the art of forest bathing, beckoned me into the embrace of nature. It’s a practice that involves immersing oneself in the tranquility of the natural world, embracing mindfulness, deep breathing, and the profound calm it offers.
To experience Shinrin-Yoku, find a quiet natural setting — whether it’s a forest, park, or any green space. Engage in mindful activities like walking, deep breathing, or simply sitting in contemplation. Pay close attention to your surroundings, listen to the sounds of nature, and let go of stress and distractions.
I found solace in the serenity of forests and parks, discovering that a simple walk amidst nature could clear my mind, reduce stress, and ignite my creativity.
Kintsugi: Beauty in Imperfection
Kintsugi, the art of repairing broken pottery with gold, taught me to embrace my own imperfections and past mistakes. It’s a philosophy that encourages self-compassion, reminding us that healing and growth can arise from acknowledging and honoring our scars.
It’s not about concealing our brokenness but celebrating the beauty that emerges from our mended pieces.
Wabi-Sabi: Beauty in the Unconventional
Wabi-Sabi, a philosophy celebrating the beauty of imperfection, urged me to let go of the relentless pursuit of perfection and find the extraordinary in the ordinary. It helped me appreciate the subtle, natural beauty in the world around me and discover joy in the simplicity of life.
It makes you appreciate the aging process, cherish the worn and weathered, and find contentment in the imperfect. Cultivate mindfulness to savor the present moment and let go of the relentless pursuit of perfection.
Hanami: Celebrating Transience Through Cherry Blossoms
Hanami is the Japanese tradition of cherry blossom viewing. It’s a celebration of the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms, symbolizing the impermanence of life. Hanami encourages us to appreciate and cherish moments of beauty that are temporary.
Now I cannot have Cherry Blossoms where I live but I found that the core value reminds us of the ephemeral nature of life and the importance of cherishing moments of beauty, even if they are brief.
It encourages us to be present, find joy in the moment, and appreciate the ever-changing seasons of life.
The Transformative Impact
After 30 days immersed in Japanese philosophy, I emerged a changed person.
It made me think that I knew so less about the world and even myself. Reading about these methods make you sit in silence and actually get to know yourself.
The pursuit of self-improvement was no longer a daunting endeavour but a journey of self-compassion, resilience, and profound connection with the world around me.
These teachings had become guiding lights, and they continue to shape my path toward becoming the best version of myself.
