Ikigai is a Japanese word that roughly means “a reason for being”, it’s recently gained attention worldwide because of its purpose–which is to give value and joy to life.
Héctor Garcia, co-author of the book “Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life” said there is no word like Ikigai anywhere in the world, it’s like the key to a happy life with a healthy body and mind.
Just like its name, Ikigai is about finding joy in life through purpose, balance, and simplicity.
“When you feel down, just thinking about your ikigai will change something in you. I receive comments even now from readers who say their lives were transformed by this word,” Garcia added, quoted from JapanGov.
Ikigai can actually be applied to everyday things — including how we decorate our homes, or the thing that gets you out of bed in the morning.
There’s a strong connection between inner peace and our surroundings. A cluttered home often reflects a cluttered mind. So when people talk about decorating with Ikigai in mind, they’re not just talking about design — they’re talking about creating a space that makes you feel calm, happy, and true to yourself.
One of the main ideas of Ikigai is living with intention. That means every piece of furniture, every color you choose, even the way your room is lit, should have a purpose — not just for aesthetics, but for how it makes you feel.
You don’t need a big house or expensive decor. What you need is a space that reflects your values and the kind of life you want to live.
Here are a few simple tips to bring the Ikigai spirit into your home:
Choose with meaning
Only keep things that serve a purpose or bring you joy. Whether it’s a handmade bracelet or a childhood diary or your favorite books, let your belongings reflect who you are.
As Marie Kondo, author of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up said “Take each item in one’s hand and ask: “Does this spark joy?” If it does, keep it. If not, dispose of it.”
Don’t forget to spare a space or spot for your favorite daily rituals, as simple as wall decor full of your favorite idols, a cozy corner for reading books, a seat by the window just to enjoy the view, or a desk that inspires you to create something.
Bring nature vibes in
Put the elements of nature into your home decor. Plants aren’t just decor, they boost mood and help clean the air. Even a small cactus or hanging ivy can bring a sense of life into your space.
Go for soft, natural colors and materials. Think about warm wood, cotton fabrics, and calming tones like beige, sage, or dusty blue. Also, natural light makes a big difference. Open your curtains during the day, use light fabrics, and add warm lighting for the evenings.
Clear the clutter
Too much stuff can feel overwhelming. Give everything a home and don’t be afraid to let go of things that no longer serve you.
Just like Condo said, “We need to exercise self-control and resist storing our belongings until we have finished identifying what we want and need to keep.”
It’s also about creating flow, not just how people move through space, but how energy moves. If your room is cluttered with random items without a clear place for them, it can feel overwhelming. But if everything has a home, and the room feels balanced, it becomes a place where you want to spend time.
There’s no perfect formula, and Ikigai doesn’t mean your space has to look like a minimalist Instagram page. It just has to feel right for you.
Think of your home as your supporter of your daily purpose, whether that’s working, creating, resting, or spending time with the people you love.
In the end, Ikigai is about savoring the little joys in life. So if your space brings you peace after a long day, or makes your morning coffee feel extra cozy, you’re already living it.
