Here we are going to share ten rules of happiness according to the Japanese culture. Japanese Ichigo ichie can be translated to English as “Once, a meeting” or “In this moment, an opportunity.” The meaning behind Ichigo ichie is that each experience and meeting that we have should be perceived as a true treasure that will never come again in the same form and it will never be repeated. Therefore, you shouldn’t miss on the joy in a moment that will be forever lost once it’s passed.
Rules to live by for a happy life
Once you are aware of Ichigo ichie you will develop an awareness of each morning and each day spent in this world, every moment you share with your family members, friends and loved ones. You will realize the value of these moments and the importance of giving your full attention.
The practice of Ichigo ichie will allow you to live fulfilled, happier life without the weight of the past or anxieties that the future might bring. You live life while staying present and acknowledge and appreciate the gift that every moment gives you.
Ten Rules of Happiness from Japan
These are ten main principles of Japanese philosophy that can lead to a fulfilled and happy life
You live only once, and you should live as if the experiences in your life are going to happen only once.
This is the reason why it’s inspiring to greet and say goodbye to the ones we love. There is a unique and once-in-a-lifetime spirit surrounding each meeting in our life.
Each opportunity comes only once and if you don’t embrace that opportunity, it will be lost forever.
Life is now or never. Grab each opportunity with both hands and don’t let go.
Do things you have never have done before.
Einstein said that you can’t do the same thing over and over again and expect the same results. This is in line with the Japanese philosophy of happiness. Having unforgettable moments means allowing something new to happen in your life, not just living a life while being stuck in a routine.
Forget about the past and the future.
Our journeys to the past and future are always useless and most of the time very painful. You can’t know what will happen and you can’t change what already happened. But at this moment, all possibilities in the world are open.
Be mindful and apply it to all your five senses.
Listen, watch, touch, smell and taste to feel the richness of every moment. This will allow you to become more alert and it will increase your level of empathy in life.
Seated meditation will allow you to observe and acknowledge the miracle of life.
When you step away from your daily routine, from obligations and hurry, you will open up the doors that will lead you to the well-being of your life.
Be aware of coincidences in your life and you will get better at reading the signs sent to you by the universe.
According to the Japanese philosophy, keeping note of the magical moments in life will help you develop the ability to follow your path in life.
If you don’t like where you are now, do something different.
As human beings, we can transform, and we have the power to reinvent our lives. If you live a predictable and dull life, you need to remember that you have opportunities to create the life that you want to live.
Don’t wait for the perfect circumstances to experience extraordinary things.
Don’t wait for vacations to enjoy your life or your birthday to have a party. Every day can be a celebration.
Hunt special moments.
As with any other activity, you will get better at this with practice and the better results will be.