The 10 rules of Ikigai

1. Stay active and don’t retire

Retirement disconnects us from a purpose in life, leading to mental and physical decline. The solution: Keep working at something you enjoy.

2. Leave urgency behind and adopt a slower pace of life

Stop rushing about and take time to appreciate simple pleasures: the way a flower looks, the smell of coffee, a conversation.

3. Only eat until you are 80 percent full

A practice known as hara hachi bu, leaving ourselves just slightly hungry will boost energy levels and improve digestion, allowing us to make more of the day.

4. Surround yourself with good friends

Loved ones bring joy to our lives. Have more of them in yours.

5. Daily but gentle exercise

A walk, a swim, some stretches – there is no need for extreme sport to stay fit. Gentle and enjoyable exercise – done daily – will keep you fit and active into older age.

6. Smile and acknowledge people around you

Human connections boost serotonin levels, so try and have more of them.

7. Reconnect with nature

A proven mood improver, interacting with nature – from a stroll around a garden to tending a pot plant – will keep your sense of contentment high and, according to some studies, boost physical health.

8. Give thanks to things which brighten your day.

Be grateful for what you have, and be sure to express that gratitude.

9. Live in the moment

Be aware of the future, of course, and do plan for it. But embrace what is happening right now – it will soon be gone forever.

10. Follow your ikigai

Most importantly of all, find your personal passion in life and work to make it a part of your daily routine.