The Intersection of Mindfulness and Ikigai:
A Path of Joyful Engagement ~
While mindfulness and Ikigai (pronounced ‘ee-key-guy’) are often discussed as separate ideas—where mindfulness, is usually seen as a “practice” or understood as a set or techniques. And Ikigai, in a contemporary and Westernized sense, as “purpose,” or “best life.”
But diving a little deeper, we can begin to understand the more subtle meanings at play… Where mindfulness is more of a “gentle and flexible life-strategy,” and Ikigai as our unique inner compass pointing to our natural inclinations and natural joy—both facets of the same lovely jewel.
It’s a subtle dance of gentle awareness and a relaxed approach to life when it comes to Mindfulness and Ikigai… And in this dance we can revel in the interplay of this harmonious relationship.
Leaning in…
Listening closely…
Setting aside the
should’s and should-not’s…
Relaxing our grasp, we sense the
subtle winds of our soul.
What wonderful compass is this?!
Leading to sweet adventures unknown,
a taste of spontaneous flow,
savoring the sweetness of both
challenge and joy.
Mindfulness as a Gentle Framework
For most people, thinking of mindfulness as more of a life-tool that is always ready to use when needed allows mindfulness to take on the role of trusted companion on our journey in life is helpful. Something that is useful, relevant, and adaptable to our needs.
And while some engage in a more formal “mindfulness practice” where the traditional “being always present and aware, without judgment,” come into play, there is a softer less formal and gentler approach that isn’t about rigid rules, practices or regulated meditation, but about a way of being, relaxing and tasting our own feast of inclinations and naturally-arising joys. (Learn about our simple, easy, and unique approach to mindfulness >)
Where mindfulness allows us our “Leaning in…” and “Listening closely…” to the subtle nudges of our internal compass and song, while moving through a world of multicolored complexity and depth.
It’s a gentle framework of attentiveness and receptivity, one that allows us to feel the “subtle winds of our soul,” which are so often drowned out by the noise of our thoughts, the accompanying “should’s and should-not’s,” not to mention the hustle and bustle of the busy world around us.
Ikigai as Both Source and Expression
Many popular interpretations of “Ikigai” portray it as an outcome—a nexus of skills, passions, and goals. But I have found Ikigai is something far more personal and abiding. Not some distant achievement that includes some version of fame or success defined by our peers or social pressure. Ikigai is our living wellspring of inspiration that, if we listen closely, becomes our playbook for a life of joy, meaning, and authentic expression, a life lived in richness and flow. (Inspired by Ken Mogi – See this interview >)
Ikigai is what allows us to explore our “sweet adventures unknown” and “savor(ing) the sweetness of both challenge and joy.”
(Some of my own Ikigai-resonant activities—single-speed cycling, painting, writing, even the small rituals of making coffee—are not just hobbies; they are a lived expression of my Ikigai, revealed through a mindful lens that allows my internal song of joy to be heard.)
The Virtuous Cycle of Mindfulness and Ikigai
The relationship between these two concepts can be understood as a harmonious, synergistic, and virtuous cycle:
- Mindfulness provides a window into your Ikigai. By adopting a mindful approach, we develop the capacity to notice the “subtle winds” of our deepest loves and joys. It is a perch that allows us to sense the light of our own unique blueprint.
- Ikigai provides the compass and fire of motivation. Engaging in activities that resonate with our Ikigai reinforces our natural awareness. When we are deeply immersed in something we love, we become part of a joyful flow.
This virtuous cycle transforms mindfulness into a tool for joyful exploration and Ikigai into a living, breathing song of our soul. The need for rigid goals falls away, revealing the naturally present doorway to our purpose. It is always accessible, spontaneously arisen, and shining from within, illuminating our path in every day and every decision.
May you revel in the wonder of your own Ikigai!