It is very difficult to give a true definition of happiness. Modern psychology describes it as "a feeling of fullness of life, joy, and satisfaction with life, underlying the optimal, healthy and effective functioning of the individual. But what "happiness" really is, everyone defines for themselves.
Even the ancient Greek philosophers tried to find an answer to this question. Democritus considered happiness as a harmonious correlation of mind and soul, Plato and Socrates as enjoyment of their own success, and Aristotle as the basis of virtue and spiritual development.
Today the theme of the search for happiness is not losing its relevance. Not sparing time and effort, people scurry about, trying to catch the bluebird by the tail: they build relationships, visit la bourse de paris en direct in the hope of winning a lot of money, they get hobbies, meet friends, try to fulfil themselves at work, get married, have children, divorce, get married again. And all of this is a race for the sole purpose of experiencing the joy of earthly existence. But there are those among us who have long ago unravelled the secret of harmonious relations with the world around us.
Danes, Swedes, Finns, Japanese know that happiness is in simple things: feelings, movements, desire, and enjoyment. They wrapped their recipes of how to get real pleasure from life in simple philosophical concepts and generously shared them with the world.
Hygge - Philosophy of Happiness
Essence: comfort.
Country: Denmark
The Danes know how to find joy in life, and Denmark is considered one of the happiest countries in the world. One of the secrets of Scandinavian happiness is hygge. Despite the fact that this laconic term has no literal translation, it has become widespread, especially in design, everyday life, and everyday life. Simply put, "hygge" is a set of feelings and sensations that one experiences from creating a warm and soulful atmosphere, from the opportunity to be in the moment with loved ones and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
Hygge is something charming, special, cosy. Instagrammers usually designate with this hashtag anything fluffy, warm or beautiful: a lulling light of a candle or fireplace, warm socks, a soft plaid with a funny ornament, a cup of aromatic latte, a cosy windowsill with books, which is sure to be braided by a flickering garland.
Wabi-Sabi Is a Philosophy of Beauty
Subject: Imperfection.
Country: Japan
A perfect example of wabi-sabi is the art of kintsugi, where cracked pottery is not thrown away but filled with varnish and sprinkled with gold dust to show the beauty of its damage and respect for age. Originally “wabi” and “sabi” were two separate concepts. The term "wabi" originally served to refer to a secluded life in nature, and became a way to emphasize the beauty and elegance of humble rustic simplicity.
"Sabi" is a word that reflects the ravages of time. For example, the changes in nature that come with the change of seasons or the frayed pages of a shabby book. Together, the two words come together harmoniously to perpetuate the concept of appreciating the simple but impermanent states of life, such as an old cup worn over years of tea ceremonies.
Zen Is a Philosophy of Contemplation
Meaning: Understanding one's own nature
Country: China
As a key concept in Buddhism, Zen represents illumination, purification of the mind, and filling of the soul through meditation. The aim of meditation is the state of "nirvana" or enlightenment. Enlightenment implies oneness with the universe, the removal of mental barriers that separate the spiritual world from the material world. Each follower of Zen philosophy tries to find his own way to enlightenment and to follow it strictly. This is perfectly facilitated by meditation and exercises to train the mind, body, willpower, and firmness of character.
Zen aims at personal perfection, it immerses people in a study of the nature of their own essence, extends the boundaries of their mind, and contributes to a deeper knowledge of themselves and their place in life. Chinese philosophy has made a huge contribution to human ideas about how to discover one's potential, achieve harmony with the world around us, assuage fears and live a rich and happy life.
Ikigai - The Philosophy of Seeking One’s Purpose
Essence: joy
Country: Japan
Japanese craftsmen can perform the same monotonous task for years without losing passion and interest in their line of work. How is this possible? The answer is simple: i-ki-gai. It is a combination of passion, professionalism, skill, and the desire to do something useful for the universe. Ikigai translates to "the joy of being aware of life. The Japanese verb "iki" means "to live," and "gai" literally translates to "mind. The concept of this philosophy of life is about motivation, the power that makes one get out of bed every day and go forward.
In a narrower sense, the term is applied to the daily actions and rituals to which we attach a certain significance, thus discovering in them the purpose of our lives and actions. These can be both the everyday little things and the grand plans that we are passionate about, putting them into practice.
Lagom - A Philosophy of Moderation
Essence: harmony
Country: Sweden
Despite the harsh climate and lack of sunshine, the Swedes are some of the happiest people on the planet. Their outlook on life has a positive effect on the physical development, nervous system, and stable mental health of the whole nation. The secret of Swedes' happiness is lagom, a philosophy based on moderation in all things. It's not hard to master: practice moderation and simplify your life as much as possible. While achieving life balance may seem like a simple and straightforward concept, in reality, lagom is a skill that requires practice.
Simplification, sometimes even asceticism, is a major component of lagom. It can manifest as clearing out a closet full of old, unwanted things, or getting rid of toxic surroundings, friends who have not brought joy to your life for a long time. Instead of another meeting with such a person, it is much more useful and productive to spend time alone - it will help clear your mind, concentrate on the important or not to think about anything at all, indulging in serene reflection.
Reiki - The Art of Touch
Essence: healing by touch.
Location: Japan
Reiki (or reiki) has been around for thousands of years. It is a form of alternative therapy commonly referred to as "energy healing". Born in Japan in the late 1800s, reiki is based on the transmission of universal energy from the practitioner's palms to the patient. The term itself, which means "mysterious atmosphere, miraculous sign," is composed of two Japanese words: "rei" (universal) and "ki" (life energy). The art of reiki took its present form in 1922 thanks to the Buddhist Mikao Usui, who developed and perfected the technique.
According to many adherents of this spiritual practice, energy stagnates in the human body in a place where there has been physical or emotional trauma. Over time, these energy blocks can provoke the emergence and development of disease.
