The Art of Living - Finding Ikigai

The Art of Living – Finding Ikigai

Personal Journey to Finding Ikigai
A few years ago, I found myself in Dharamshala, India, questioning my purpose. I had just ended my first marriage—a painful chapter that made me question my long-held beliefs about relationships and commitment. I had traveled to a silent retreat, seeking peace, but my mind felt noisier than ever.
Then, I saw a tiny yellow sunbird struggling on the road, fighting for its last breath. I picked it up, hoping it would recover. But instead, it passed quietly in my hands. Tears streamed down my cheeks. I felt helpless, lost, and broken. But in that moment, I also felt clarity—life is fragile yet precious. I was meant to be there, not to dwell on pain, but to embrace the present.
Through meditation, I began peeling away layers of sadness, learning to be fully present. This journey led me to naturopathy, where I realized my calling—to help others heal, grow, and find their own purpose. It inspired me to create Pure Joy Naturopathy, drawn from the mantra I use in meditation. It reminds me to serve with joy, no matter the outcome.

What is Ikigai?
Ikigai is often described as the intersection of:
• What you love (your passion)
• What you are good at (your talents and strengths)
• What the world needs (your contribution)
• Purpose & Sustainability (how you create a fulfilling life)
More than a career or achievement, Ikigai is a way of being—finding joy in small moments, being present, and aligning daily actions with what truly matters.

Naturopathy: My True Ikigai
While tea ceremony and Aikido shape my philosophy, naturopathy is the profession that makes me feel alive. Every day, I have the privilege of guiding others on their healing journeys, and through this, I continue to evolve.
What makes naturopathy special to me is:
• Witnessing transformation – Seeing clients take control of their health is deeply inspiring.
• Developing patience and compassion – Healing is not linear, and I have learned to offer support without judgment.
• Growing alongside my clients – My work challenges me to stay open-minded, continue learning, and refine my ability to listen and empathize.
Naturopathy has shaped me into a better, more compassionate person, and for that, I am grateful.

Aikido: The Way of Harmonizing Energy
Aikido, meaning “the way of harmony”, is a Japanese martial art that focuses on blending with an opponent’s movement rather than opposing it. Unlike other combat-based practices, Aikido teaches flow, balance, and adaptability, principles that resonate deeply with Ikigai.
Through Aikido, I have learned:
• To remain centered, even in the face of resistance
• To embrace challenges as opportunities to adapt and grow
• To find strength in fluidity rather than force
Just like in life, we do not always need to fight against challenges; sometimes, we need to move with them, finding solutions through harmony. This philosophy carries over into my naturopathy practice, where I help clients find balance rather than forcing drastic changes.

Tea Ceremony: The Art of Mindfulness and Connection
The Japanese tea ceremony (Chanoyu) is far more than just drinking tea—it is a practice of intentionality, respect, and harmony with nature. Rooted in Zen philosophy, every movement, breath, and silence in the ceremony holds meaning.
Through tea, I have learned:
• To slow down and be fully present
• To appreciate the beauty in simplicity
• To cultivate respect and gratitude in all interactions
• To see how life’s impermanence teaches us to cherish each moment (Ichigo Ichie – “one time, one meeting”)

Embracing Life, Regardless of the Outcome
In the pursuit of Ikigai, I have learned this: It is not about winning or losing, success or failure. It is about the experience itself.
• Some days, my tea ceremony is seamless; other days, I forget the sequences. But in both, there is beauty and learning.
• Some days, Aikido techniques flow effortlessly; other days, I become blank and my movement becomes stagnant. But in failing, I learn how to do the technique better.
• Some days, healing journeys are straightforward; other times, progress takes patience and trust in the body’s process.
Life is no different. It is not about reaching a destination but about the depth and presence with which we live each moment.

Closing Reflection: Finding Your Ikigai
I invite you to reflect on your own Ikigai:
• What brings you deep joy?
• What skills or practices make you feel truly alive?
• How can you contribute to the world in a meaningful way?
Perhaps, like me, you will find your Ikigai in something simple yet profound—a quiet cup of tea, a body movement, an act of service, or a shared connection.
To live with Ikigai is to live fully with the intention of being present in each moment, acknowledging the feeling of being alive—whether in a favorable or unfavorable situation. Witnessing each part of our lives is essential.
By embracing the wisdom of the past and integrating it into our modern lives, we create a path where we can all thrive—strong, present, and deeply connected to our purpose.

Mayumi Kojima