The Art of Living: Finding Ikigai in Midlife with Tea, Aikido & Healing

Overhead view of a traditional Japanese cast iron teapot set into a tatami floor — symbolizing Ikigai, mindfulness, and sacred daily ritual.

Earlier this year, I was honoured to have an article published in Connect Magazine’s 2025 Annual Edition.

I wrote about Ikigai — not just as a trendy idea — but as a deeply lived practice that has shaped my life through the tea ceremony, Aikido, and naturopathy.

Today I’d love to share it with you here. May it gently stir your sense of purpose, healing, and presence.

The Art of Living: Finding Ikigai Through Tea Ceremony, Aikido, and Naturopathy
By Mayumi Kojima – Owner of Pure Joy Naturopathy
Published in Connect Magazine

Introduction: The Search for Meaning and Balance

In a fast-paced world, many of us seek a deeper sense of purpose, clarity, and connection. In Japan, we call this Ikigai (生き甲斐)—our reason for being, the essence that makes us wake up in the morning with fulfilment.

For me, the pursuit of Ikigai has been beautifully woven through the Japanese tea ceremony, Aikido, and naturopathy—three paths that teach harmony, mindfulness, resilience, and growth. These practices have not only guided me in daily life but also shaped my approach as a Naturopath and Ikigai Healing Guide, helping others live healthier, more meaningful lives.

A Personal Journey to Finding Ikigai

A few years ago, I found myself in Dharamshala, India, questioning my purpose. I had just ended my first marriage—a painful chapter that made me question my long-held beliefs about relationships and commitment. I had traveled to a silent retreat, seeking peace, but my mind felt noisier than ever.

Then, I saw a tiny yellow sunbird struggling on the road, fighting for its last breath. I picked it up, hoping it would recover. But instead, it passed quietly in my hands. Tears streamed down my cheeks. I felt helpless, lost, and broken. But in that moment, I also felt clarity—life is fragile yet precious. I was meant to be there, not to dwell on pain, but to embrace the present.

Through meditation, I began peeling away layers of sadness, learning to be fully present. This journey led me to naturopathy, where I realized my calling—to help others heal, grow, and find their own purpose. It inspired me to create Pure Joy Naturopathy, drawn from the mantra I use in meditation. It reminds me to serve with joy, no matter the outcome.

What is Ikigai?

Ikigai is often described as the intersection of:

· What you love (your passion)

· What you are good at (your talents and strengths)

· What the world needs (your contribution)

· Purpose & Sustainability (how you create a fulfilling life)

More than a career or achievement, Ikigai is a way of being—finding joy in small moments, being present, and aligning daily actions with what truly matters.

Naturopathy: My True Ikigai

While tea ceremony and Aikido shape my philosophy, naturopathy is the profession that makes me feel alive. Every day, I have the privilege of guiding others on their healing journeys, and through this, I continue to evolve.

What makes naturopathy special to me is:

· Witnessing transformation – Seeing clients take control of their health is deeply inspiring.

· Developing patience and compassion – Healing is not linear, and I have learned to offer support without judgment.

· Growing alongside my clients – My work challenges me to stay open-minded, continue learning, and refine my ability to listen and empathize.

Naturopathy has shaped me into a better, more compassionate person, and for that, I am grateful.

Aikido: The Way of Harmonizing Energy

Aikido, meaning “the way of harmony”, is a Japanese martial art that focuses on blending with an opponent’s movement rather than opposing it. Unlike other combat-based practices, Aikido teaches flow, balance, and adaptability, principles that resonate deeply with Ikigai.

Through Aikido, I have learned:

· To remain centered, even in the face of resistance

· To embrace challenges as opportunities to adapt and grow

· To find strength in fluidity rather than force

Just like in life, we do not always need to fight against challenges; sometimes, we need to move with them, finding solutions through harmony. This philosophy carries over into my naturopathy practice, where I help clients find balance rather than forcing drastic changes.

Tea Ceremony: The Art of Mindfulness and Connection

The Japanese tea ceremony (Chanoyu) is far more than just drinking tea—it is a practice of intentionality, respect, and harmony with nature. Rooted in Zen philosophy, every movement, breath, and silence in the ceremony holds meaning.

Through tea, I have learned:

· To slow down and be fully present

· To appreciate the beauty in simplicity

· To cultivate respect and gratitude in all interactions

· To see how life’s impermanence teaches us to cherish each moment (Ichigo Ichie – “one time, one meeting”)

 Embracing Life, Regardless of the Outcome

In the pursuit of Ikigai, I have learned this: It is not about winning or losing, success or failure. It is about the experience itself.

· Some days, my tea ceremony is seamless; other days, I forget the sequences. But in both, there is beauty and learning.

· Some days, Aikido techniques flow effortlessly; other days, I become blank and my movement becomes stagnant. But in failing, I learn how to do the technique better.

· Some days, healing journeys are straightforward; other times, progress takes patience and trust in the body’s process.

Life is no different. It is not about reaching a destination but about the depth and presence with which we live each moment.

Closing Reflection: Finding Your Ikigai

I invite you to reflect on your own Ikigai:

· What brings you deep joy?

· What skills or practices make you feel truly alive?

· How can you contribute to the world in a meaningful way?

Perhaps, like me, you will find your Ikigai in something simple yet profound—a quiet cup of tea, a body movement, an act of service, or a shared connection.

To live with Ikigai is to live fully with the intention of being present in each moment, acknowledging the feeling of being alive—whether in a favorable or unfavorable situation. Witnessing each part of our lives is essential.

By embracing the wisdom of the past and integrating it into our modern lives, we create a path where we can all thrive—strong, present, and deeply connected to our purpose.

Thank you for sharing this journey with me.

🌿 If this resonates with you, I invite you to explore your own Ikigai with me.
I offer 1:1 Ikigai Discovery Sessions, and we’ll soon be gathering at the June IKIGAI Retreat (only one room left).

You can learn more here or book a free clarity call - Book an Appointment.

With presence and joy,
Mayumi