Summary & Analysis of Ikigai By Héctor García And Francesc Miralles

Why is Okinawa known as the island of prolonged youth? What makes so many people there live past the age of 90 with vitality and joy?

One of the keys lies in ikigai, a concept deeply rooted in Okinawan culture. This island, located south of mainland Japan, is home to one of the highest concentrations of centenarians on the planet. On average, men live to 84 years of age and women reach 90 or more, with high levels of physical and emotional well-being.

Beyond the subtropical climate, healthy eating and active outdoor lifestyle, what really sustains this longevity is ikigai: that personal and profound reason why each individual gets up every morning.

“Iki” means to live, and ‘gai’ refers to that which gives value or purpose. Together, they express a philosophy of life centered on meaning, passion and balance. To find one's ikigai is to connect with what motivates us and gives us direction, thus creating a fuller, more coherent and lasting life.

Important note: This is an independent analysis and summary, not affiliated with the author or the source material.

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Release date

Audiobook: June 13, 2025