Living by Japanese principles
Japan, with its unique blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity, offers a wealth of wisdom that transcends borders. From the principles of compassion and acceptance to the pursuit of purpose and passion, Japanese culture provides profound insights into living a balanced and meaningful life. Throughout my travels, I encountered concepts that resonated deeply with me, each offering valuable lessons on how to navigate the complexities of our world.
In this blog, I will share the essence of these Japanese principles—Omoiyari, Mono no Aware, and Ikigai—and how they have influenced my perspective on life. These timeless concepts not only shaped my experiences in Japan but also left an indelible mark on my journey of self-discovery and cultural understanding.
In late March 2024, I embarked on my maiden journey eastward, with Japan as my destination. Despite never having set foot in the Land of the Rising Sun before, I've always felt a certain affinity towards its culture.
Intriguingly, strolling through São Paulo's Liberdade district, one could easily mistake the vibrant atmosphere for downtown Tokyo. The streets are adorned with bright red torii gates of Shinto shrines, while Asian restaurants and supermarkets proudly display advertisements in Japanese characters. This district stands as the epicenter of the largest Japanese immigrant community in the world.
With over 1.8 million individuals of Japanese descent residing in Brazil, the history of this community is deeply ingrained in the fabric of Brazilian society. The first wave of Japanese immigrants arrived in 1908, seeking refuge from poverty and unemployment in Japan, and seeking opportunities in Brazil's burgeoning coffee plantations. They grappled with numerous challenges, from inhabiting former slave quarters and contending with unfamiliar diseases like malaria, to navigating a culture vastly different from their own.
Yet, despite the initial adversities, the contributions of Japanese immigrants to Brazilian society have been profound. Personally, it was in Brazil where I encountered my first Buddhist temple (We resided near Temple Shin Buddhist in Brasilia) and savored my inaugural taste of sushi.
This journey to Japan presented an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the culture of many of my compatriots while exploring their ancestral homeland. While it's impossible to encapsulate the richness of Japanese culture in its entirety within the confines of this article, I am compelled to share some of its profound wisdom, which I consider invaluable treasures.
Omoiyari: Cultivating Compassion in Every Aspect of Life
Omoiyari, a core principle in Japanese culture, goes beyond mere kindness—it embodies a deep sense of caring and sincere consideration for others. This value is not only demonstrated in personal interactions but also extends to various facets of life, including work and product design.
In 2018, Japanese football fans captured global attention when they took it upon themselves to tidy up a stadium after a game. This act of collective responsibility exemplifies the spirit of Omoiyari, where individuals go above and beyond to contribute to the greater good.
Moreover, Omoiyari is intricately woven into the design of Japanese products. Take, for instance, the innovative features of Japanese hi-tech toilets, which include a warm seat, washer, and even a sound to mask "unpleasant" noises. However, beyond mere functionality, these designs reflect a deeper commitment to the comfort and well-being of users. It's a manifestation of the Japanese ethos of anticipating and addressing the needs of others.
During my visit to Japan, I encountered countless instances of Omoiyari in action. When seeking to order a taxi one morning. The personal of the hotel did not call for one but went down to the street to holler one - a much cheaper option - while she insisted we waited in the lobby. She then accompanied us to the car and bowed respectfully as we departed.
Some might argue that this could simply be associated with good manners or high-end hotel service. But is it? Really? Can’t many of us account for instances where experienced rather opposite behaviors?
Practicing Omoiyari isn't just about being polite; it's about fostering genuine compassion and empathy towards others. By embodying this principle in our daily lives, we can cultivate deeper connections, build stronger communities, and contribute to a more caring and harmonious society.
Mono no Aware: Embracing Impermanence and Letting Go
Mono no Aware invites us to detach from material possessions, outcomes, and old beliefs, fostering empathy towards the transient nature of all things. At its essence, it celebrates the beauty found in impermanence and transience. It's a poignant reminder that nothing in life is permanent. Instead, by willingly and gracefully letting go of attachments, we can find peace and contentment in the ebb and flow of life. Applying this concept to our lives begins with cultivating awareness and appreciation for the small moments that bring us joy. Whether it's the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms in spring or the ephemeral laughter of loved ones, each moment holds its own unique significance.
While my appreciation for the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms was undeniable during my trip to Japan, it was my pilgrimage to Mount Koya (Kōyasan) that truly deepened my understanding of Mono no Aware.
For those who are not familiar with the place, imagine a secluded temple town, nestled atop a wooded mountaintop, accessible only after a three-hour journey by train, funicular, and bus. Arriving at a temple lodging, I immersed myself in the lifestyle of a monk, partaking in vegetarian monk's cuisine and attending morning prayers. However, it was the opportunity to traverse the Okunoin cemetery that compelled me to include this destination in my itinerary.
As I walked along the almost three-kilometer path lined with over 200,000 tombstones, a sense of timelessness enveloped me. The gray sky, moist air, and mystical fog evoked images reminiscent of Hayao Miyazaki's cinematic masterpiece, Spirited Away. Each step was an immersion in the sensory richness of the moment, heightened by the serene surroundings.
However, the tranquility was abruptly shattered by a sudden thunderstorm, reminiscent of the tropical downpours I knew so well but tinged with a chilling coldness. Despite my attempts to seek shelter, the rain permeated my clothes and shoes, leaving me drenched and disheveled. There was no point in fighting it.
You might wonder how such an experience could be considered pleasant at all. In that moment, I certainly didn't find it enjoyable, to say the least. However, I came to realize that perhaps enduring the discomfort was the necessary cost of experiencing such an ephemeral and magical moment.
Beyond mere awareness and gratitude, Mono no Aware teaches us to cultivate a deep sense of acceptance and resilience in the face of life's inevitable changes. So, despite any lingering resentment, I chose to embrace the impermanence of that moment while it lasted, and to accept the changes that followed.
Ikigai: live with purpose and passion
Ikigai is a concept that roughly translates to “reason for being.” It encapsulates the essence of living with purpose and passion. It emphasizes the pursuit of activities that bring fulfillment and meaning to our lives, whether they be hobbies, careers, or personal endeavors. This philosophy suggests that finding our ikigai leads to a sense of well-being and satisfaction, as it aligns with our deepest desires and values.
At its core, ikigai is about identifying the intersection of what we love, what we are good at, what the world needs, and what we can be paid for. By reflecting on these elements, we can uncover our unique purpose and direction in life. This process involves introspection and self-discovery, as we consider our passions, strengths, values, and how we can contribute to the world around us.
Prior to my trip, I delved into the concept of Ikigai through various readings. As I traversed Japan alongside my partner, a recurring joke emerged. While tasting the local cuisine is an integral part of immersing oneself in a country's culture, he took this to another level. From seeking to discussing, tasting, savoring, and even gobbling down meals, our culinary explorations became a significant focal point of our time together. Not to mention, as a proud Belgian with a discerning palate, he was adamant about not settling for just any beer. Thus, our quest led us to the Kyoto Arashiyama Brewery, a hidden gem where a vibrant community of brewers crafts everything from IPAs to stouts and pale ales. It was a true hole-in-the-wall find that resonated deeply with his passion.
Observing his unwavering dedication to the art of "eating and drinking," I couldn't help but wonder if this was his true Ikigai. And why he hadn't pursued a career as a chef, taster, or culinary critic. His innate knack for discerning flavors and his unyielding enthusiasm for culinary exploration seemed tailor-made for such roles.
While my sensitive stomach prevented me from fully participating, I found myself relegated to the role of a mere spectator. I couldn't help but wonder about the impact of his relentless pursuit of culinary exploration until I witnessed the genuine satisfaction reflected in the eyes of restaurant owners as they collected his empty plates. Through his unwavering passion for food and drink, he was able to bring joy and contentment, one meal at a time.
Research has shown that people who have a sense of purpose in life tend to live longer and experience greater overall happiness. Ikigai encourages us to live authentically and intentionally, embracing the joy and fulfillment that come from pursuing our passions and making a positive impact on others.
As my Japanese adventure comes to an end, I reflect on the myriad of experiences that have shaped this journey. From the language barrier to tasting unfamiliar cuisine, each moment has been a lesson in adaptability and openness to the unknown. I take with me not only memories of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities, but also a newfound appreciation for the beauty of the unknown.
As I return home, I am filled with gratitude for the richness of the experiences and the lessons learned along the way. This journey has been more than just a geographical exploration; it has been a journey of self-discovery and cultural immersion.
Arigatou gozaimasu, Japan, for opening my eyes and heart to a world of wonders. Until next time, sayonara.