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10 Japanese Habits That Made My Life More Meaningful and Healthy
When I first moved to Japan, I was mesmerized by the cherry blossoms, the bustling streets, and the endless sushi options. But what stuck with me the most were the habits of the Japanese people — habits that changed the way I look at life. Let me take you through what I learned, one life lesson at a time.
1. The Art of Eating Slowly (“Hara Hachi Bu”)
In Japan, I noticed people rarely rush their meals. They practice “hara hachi bu” — eating until they’re 80% full. At first, I felt like I was being deprived of my full-belly satisfaction. But guess what? It’s great for digestion and stops overeating. Now, my jeans thank me.
2. Morning Stretching (“Rajio Taiso”)
Every morning, I saw people stretching together in parks or offices. It’s a radio-guided exercise called “Rajio Taiso.” I joined in once — awkward at first, but it’s a wonderful way to wake up the body and soul. Bonus: you’ll feel like a disciplined ninja.
3. Embracing Minimalism (“Danshari”)
Japanese homes are small, yet they feel spacious and peaceful. Why? Minimalism! They keep only what’s essential and meaningful. I Marie-Kondo’d my wardrobe, and suddenly, finding my favorite t-shirt didn’t feel like a treasure hunt.
