Have you ever wondered what the key to a long and healthy life is?
Is it regular exercise, a healthy diet, or sticking to a daily routine?
While these factors certainly contribute to overall well-being, I stumbled upon an intriguing secret shared by many Japanese celebrities who have lived a long life.
The secret is simple: "Don't be Kuyokuyo."
In Japanese, Kuyokuyo refers to the act of incessantly worrying about unsolvable problems. It's a mindset that hinders our ability to live a fulfilling life.
Several notable figures have attested to this philosophy.
Chiyo Uno, a renowned Japanese novelist who passed away at the age of 98, revealed that her longevity secret was not worrying about anything.
Shigechiyo Izumi, who lived at least 105 years (though his Guinness World Record title was later withdrawn due to unconfirmed birthdate), also emphasized the importance of not worrying in his 10 Precepts.
Even Hifumi Kato, an 83-year-old retired professional shogi player, shared his secret: "Sleep well, eat three times a day, and don't worry about anything."
When we refrain from worrying, our bodies function optimally, maintaining hormone balance and blood pressure. So, not only is it good for our mental well-being, but it also benefits our physical health.
But why do we find it so difficult to stop worrying? One reason is that we often don't know what to do, and our minds unconsciously seek solutions, even when there aren't any.
How to overcome this perpetual worry, or Kuyokuyo, and embrace this Japanese longevity secret?
In a previous blog, I asked you to share your solutions for facing challenges, and I'd like to share some of the insights I received.
1. Seek expert help
Allow yourself to be vulnerable and ask for assistance from someone knowledgeable in the field. Although it might feel intimidating at first, once you receive their advice and support, you may realize how helpful it is and wonder why you didn't seek help earlier.
2. Get moving
Engage in physical activity or try yoga exercises when you feel stuck. Movement can help distract your mind from the issue at hand and often leads to new ideas or perspectives naturally arising.
3. Remember, the rain will stop
Take inspiration from nature. Just as rain eventually comes to an end, so do our problems. It might be challenging to believe this, especially in the midst of a difficult situation. If you can't find comfort in that thought, allow yourself to experience the full range of emotions. However, remember not to dwell in the darkness forever.
4. Embrace personal growth
Understand that once the rain stops, you emerge as a transformed, stronger individual. Overcoming challenges enables personal growth, making you more capable of handling future obstacles. You become more compassionate and gain valuable insights that help you tackle similar issues with greater confidence and resilience.
Of course, not worrying about anything is easier said than done. It requires trust in life, which is a topic in itself.
So, be kind to yourself and remember that you don't have to achieve perfection in letting go of worries. Take it one step at a time, and embrace the journey towards a more fulfilling, worry-free life.
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