BOOK REVIEW The Way of Nagomi

Book Review: The Way of Nagomi How to Find Peace and Harmony in Your Life

by Ken Mogi

Quercus Publishing, 2024   (208 pages)

In his insightful book, The Way of Nagomi, Japanese neuroscientist and bestselling author Ken Mogi introduces a powerful, yet subtle, Japanese philosophy for achieving a balanced and harmonious life. Lacking a direct English translation, nagomi is best described as a state of effortless calm, well-being, and emotional balance that arises from the integration of disparate elements in our lives. Mogi gently guides readers through this rich cultural concept, presenting it not as a rigid five-step self-help manual, but as a flexible framework for navigating life's inherent uncertainties and complexities.

Mogi illustrates the Way of Nagomi through a myriad of accessible examples drawn from Japanese culture, history, and daily life. From the careful arrangement of a bento box to the appreciation of the transient beauty of cherry blossoms (ukiyo), nagomi is shown to be pervasive. The book is structured around five key pillars: maintaining happy relationships, embracing lifelong learning, finding peace in daily activities, blending diverse components, and gaining a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. Mogi discusses concepts like kounaichoumi (mixing flavors in the mouth to achieve harmony in eating), which serves as a metaphor for blending different aspects of life, and harahachibu (eating until 80% full) as an approach to health and moderation. He also touches on the Japanese acceptance of impermanence, fostering resilience and adaptability.

The Way of Nagomi sits comfortably alongside a growing body of literature exploring Japanese life philosophies, but it distinguishes itself in several ways. It serves as an excellent complement to Mogi's earlier work, The Little Book of Ikigai, which focuses on finding one's "reason for being". While ikigai emphasizes purpose and passion, nagomi offers a broader perspective on overall balance and harmony, acting as the philosophical "mother" concept from which others like wabi-sabi (finding beauty in imperfection) and kintsugi (repairing cracks with gold) are derived.

Compared to books like Héctor García and Francesc Miralles's Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life, which some find presents a more Westernized, checklist-oriented approach, Mogi's writing is often described as more anecdotal and nuanced. Mogi, a native Japanese neuroscientist, offers an authentic insider's perspective, emphasizing that life isn't a problem to be solved with a simple five-step plan, but a dynamic experience to be embraced with balance and acceptance. His approach is warm, friendly, and insightful, encouraging readers to cultivate an intuitive sense of balance in their unique lives.

Ultimately, The Way of Nagomi is a gentle, thought-provoking read that encourages a profound shift in perspective. It reminds us that true well-being is not about pursuing an elusive perfection, but about embracing the rich, sometimes messy, blend of experiences that life offers. For anyone seeking a more peaceful and contented existence amidst the chaos of the modern world, Mogi's exploration of nagomi provides a refreshing and valuable guide.

Ken Mogi is a Japanese neuroscientist, writer, and broadcaster best known internationally for his work on ikigai (the Japanese concept of purpose and meaning in life).  He has authored over 100 titles including "The Way of Nagomi".