Ichigo Ichie: 10 Rules of The Japanese Way To Happiness

Introduction

The meaning of Ichigo Ichie is ‘one time one meeting’ that describes a valuable concept of treasuring the unrepeatable nature of the moment. It can also be translated as ‘once in a lifetime’ or ‘for this time only’. This Japanese philosophy stresses upon focusing on the importance of present in order to lead a fullfiling life without feeling anxious about the future or troubled about the past. Héctor García and Francesc Miralles explained this evergreen Japanese philosophy in their very famous book ‘Ichigo Ichie’.

Ichigo Ichie: 10 Rules of The Japanese Way To Happiness

1. Don’t postpone special moments
According to a very famous saying "you cannot step into the same river twice because it’s not the same river and same you". Each and every opportunity presents itself only once. If we don’t embrace present moment, then it will be lost forever. Never ever postpone special moments .
2. Live as if this were going to happen only once in your life
This is the reason why Japanese people say Ichigo Ichie when they greet or say goodbye to their loved ones. This makes them aware of the importance of present moment. Always remember that any meeting has a once in a lifetime nature. Hence, always try to enjoy every moment to the fullest potential. 

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3. Dwell in the present
We can observe that many people spend their maximum time in remembering past memories but that is totally useless as we cannot do anything about the past. Also we cannot know what will happen in the future. Being in the present moment help us to appreciate the importance of this particular instance as all opportunities are alive right here right now.
4. Do something you’ve never done before
This point can be related to the bucketlist made by many people to visit unexplored places. People take out time to make such list, but they never make a list of their goals. This statement promote us to make unbelievable goals.
5. Practice seated meditation
We can observe that many saints sit peacefully to meditate upon supreme personality. Seated meditation helps us to focus on our goals. This simple habit can elevate us from daily chores and we get bird eye view of any problem of our life. Hence, always remember that whenever you find yourself surrounded by multiple problems, then practice seated meditation and you will subsequently get answers of your issues.
6. Apply mindfulness to your five senses
We have to develop art of touching, tasting, listening, watching and smelling to enjoy each moment with the richness of human perception. This will increase our level of empathy and influence.
7. Notice coincidences
When we are aware of coincidences then that skill helps us to read the signs sent by the universe. Developing the habit of keeping a daily journal can help us to notice coincidences.
8. Make every gathering a party
Many people wait for a vacation, birthday or a trip to experience extraordinary things, but we must develop a right frame of mind to make each day "a celebration day".

9. If you don’t like what there is, make something different
Always remember that we are not stone, we can change ourselves any time. If you find current reality, boring and predictable. Then by observing Ichigo Ichie principle, we can create new opportunity any time.
10. Be a hunter of special moments
Always keep looking for special moments and celebrate those moments every time. These special moments create a shared memory to build better relationships.

Summary

The nearest meaning of Ichigo Ichie is what ever we are experiencing right now will never ever happen again. Hence, we must value each moment like a treasure trove. These 10 rules can help us to become a moment hunter.