15 books on lifestyle from different cultures
The Year of Living Danishly
What is The Year of Living Danishly about?
“The Year of Living Danishly” by Helen Russell is a delightful exploration of Denmark's unique culture and the quest for happiness. Helen, a British journalist, moves to Denmark and shares her fascinating encounters with Danish customs, from 'hygge' to local traditions. Through her observations, she uncovers the secrets behind Denmark's status as one of the happiest countries in the world.
Ikigai
What is Ikigai about?
Do you want to uncover your purpose or passion and bring more happiness into your life? Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, Yukari Mitsuhashi encourages readers to reflect on their lives and find meaning in everyday experiences. Ikigai: The Japanese Art of a Meaningful Life features real-life stories of teachers, writers, and doctors, sharing their own ikigai.
Lagom: Not Too Little, Not Too Much
What is Lagom: Not Too Little, Not Too Much about?
Lagom: Not Too Little, Not Too Much: The Swedish Art of Living a Balanced, Happy Life by Niki Brantmark explores the Swedish approach to achieving life balance. It offers practical tips and insights on integrating this philosophy into different areas of daily life, from work to relationships. The book promotes the idea of a lifestyle that is “just enough,” neither excessive nor inadequate.
The Finnish Way
What is The Finnish Way about?
The Finnish Way: Finding Courage, Wellness, and Happiness Through the Power of Sisu by Katja Pantzar introduces the Finnish nature-inspired concept of Sisu, a form of resilience and mindfulness. According to the book, Sisu contributes to well-being, making the Finnish population one of the happiest. The author offers helpful tips for readers to adopt this mindset through biking, walking, swimming, and the Nordic diet.
The Little Book of Hygge
What is The Little Book of Hygge about?
“The Little Book of Hygge” is a delightful guide written by Meik Wiking, the CEO of the Happiness Research Institute in Copenhagen, Denmark. This book introduces readers to the Danish concept of hygge, which is all about embracing cozy moments and finding joy in life's simple pleasures. Wiking offers practical tips and insights on creating a sense of comfort, well-being, and togetherness in everyday life.
Japonisme
What is Japonisme about?
The Japanese have long embraced practices and philosophies like ikigai, wabi-sabi, calligraphy, and more to discover personal purpose and happiness. The book Japonisme by Erin Niimi Longhurst invites you to try out the suggested tips, tricks, and exercises to find contentment and joy in your life. This is an accessible guide to Japanese wisdom of the past and present toward your fulfilling future.
The Little Book of Lykke
What is The Little Book of Lykke about?
The Little Book of Lykke, written by Meik Wiking, the CEO of Happiness Research Institute, is a guide to incorporating happiness into your daily life. By exploring happiness in various countries around the world, Wiking breaks down six major indicators of happiness. This book provides practical ways to enhance not just your own life but also those in your community.
Goodbye, Things
What is Goodbye, Things about?
“Goodbye, Things: The New Japanese Minimalism” provides guidance about creating and maintaining a minimalistic lifestyle. This book explains how minimalism can help you develop your mindfulness, focus, and productivity. So, read on and learn to discard old and unnecessary things in your life.
Hygge
What is Hygge about?
The Danish concept of “hygge” fosters wellness, coziness, and happiness. "Hygge: The Danish Art of Happiness" by Marie Tourell Søderberg explores this art and suggests ways to embrace hygge in everyday life. With personal stories, recipes, and lovely photos, the book gives readers a detailed understanding of this Danish philosophy of finding warmth and joy at heart and in life.
Kaizen
What is Kaizen about?
Discover Kaizen, the Japanese philosophy of working with your habits, consistently moving forward, and tackling big goals with small steps. You can apply Kaizen to various aspects of your life — your career, relationships, and hobbies. If you want to achieve your goals and make your new habits stick, read on to find out how!
Awakening Your Ikigai
What is Awakening Your Ikigai about?
Awakening Your Ikigai by Ken Mogi navigates readers through the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai, which can be interpreted as "your reason to get up in the morning." Embrace Ikigai through small moments of daily joy by accepting yourself and achieving harmony and sustainability. Mogi provides a guide to finding your Ikigai by drawing inspiration from Japanese history, modern culture, and stories from celebrities.
Päntsdrunk (Kalsarikänni)
What is Päntsdrunk (Kalsarikänni) about?
Päntsdrunk: Kalsarikanni: The Finnish Path to Relaxation offers a comedic yet insightful exploration into a simple Finnish lifestyle trend. It encourages you to embrace the affordable practice of staying at home, lounging in underwear, and enjoying a drink. If you’re looking for a new perspective on well-being, päntsdrunk is a sure way to find stress relief and peace!
The Nordic Theory of Everything
What is The Nordic Theory of Everything about?
In her book The Nordic Theory of Everything, a Finnish journalist who now lives in the United States, compares life in the US to the Nordic region. Anny Partanen expertly blends personal stories with national statistics to explore key societal relationships and values. This book is an eye-opener to a progressive approach to education, lifestyle, and health. Read on to find out what has driven Nordic success and how we can improve our community with their example.
How to Ikigai
What is How to Ikigai about?
Uncover the secrets to lasting happiness with Tim Tamashiro's How to Ikigai: Lessons for Finding Happiness and Living Your Life’s Purpose. You will explore the path to joy with Ikigai and discover a simple roadmap for meaningful living. Practical advice and compelling stories will teach you to love what you do, excel at your strengths, contribute to the world, and seek rewards.
Everyday Ubuntu
What is Everyday Ubuntu about?
Do you feel like something keeps you from becoming a better person you’ve always wanted to be? Do you want to become more compassionate, learn respect, and understand the difference between hearing and listening? Ubuntu, a South African philosophy, will encourage you to take a step in that direction and connect with others on a deeper level than ever before.
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