People often measure a good life by how much they achieve, how quickly they reach their goals and how much they manage to do in a day. But there is more to life than staying busy or constantly trying to get ahead. Four Japanese expressions shared by health and wellness expert Luke Coutinho offer a different way to look at everyday habits and personal well-being.Coutinho shared these words after spending five days in Japan to study health and science. Each expression highlights a different aspect of life, from making time for rest to maintaining good health as we age.
1. Yutori: Make room for yourself
Yutori refers to leaving some free space in life. Coutinho pointed out that people often fill their schedules with work, meetings, calls, workouts and personal goals.He believes that having time to pause allows the mind to think clearly and gives the body a chance to rest. Not every moment needs to be filled with an activity.
2. Rei: Show respect to others
Rei is associated with respect. During his visit, Coutinho noticed people bowing in Japan to greet others, express thanks or acknowledge someone.He reflected on how respect is linked to confidence and character. Treating others well does not make a person less important. Instead, it shows an ability to value people without feeling the need to prove one’s own importance.
3. Pin Pin Korori: Focus on the quality of life
Pin Pin Korori highlights the importance of remaining capable and active while growing older.Coutinho explained that living longer is only one part of healthy ageing. Staying mentally alert, physically strong and mobile also matters.He connected this idea to “Human Capacity”, describing it as something shaped by small choices made every day.
4. Isogaba Maware: Stop rushing every process
Isogaba Maware suggests that taking a slower route can sometimes help a person reach a destination sooner.Coutinho related this idea to the pressure to improve, grow and heal quickly. He noted that the body does not work according to urgency and that consistency matters more than rushing towards results.
What these Japanese words mean for everyday life
Coutinho’s visit to Japan encouraged him to look beyond health and science and reflect on how people approach their daily lives. The four expressions offer different perspectives on rest, respect, healthy ageing and personal growth.His takeaway was that the way people live each day can play an important role in their well-being.Disclaimer: The Times of India has not independently verified the claims made in the post. The information is based on the views shared by the user on X.Thumb image: X
