Similarities in Japanese and Yoga Philosophy

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Japanese Term	Description	Yoga Philosophy	Description
Ikigai	Ikigai is a Japanese concept that refers to one’s reason for being or a sense of purpose in life. It emphasizes the importance of living in alignment with one’s values and goals in order to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life.	Dharma	Dharma is a Hindu/Yoga philosophy concept that encompasses one’s individual duty, righteous path, and natural inclination towards fulfilling one’s purpose in life. It emphasizes the importance of living in alignment with one’s true nature and values in order to achieve inner peace and fulfillment.
Shikita na gai	Shikita na gai is a Japanese term that refers to the beauty of imperfection and incompleteness. It is the practice of finding contentment and happiness in the present moment, regardless of any perceived flaws or imperfections.	Santosha	Santosha is a yoga philosophy concept that emphasizes the practice of contentment and gratitude for what one has in the present moment, rather than constantly striving for more or focusing on what is lacking. It encourages a mindset of acceptance, appreciation, and inner peace.
Wabi-Sabi	Wabi-sabi is a Japanese aesthetic philosophy that values the beauty of simplicity, imperfection, and the impermanence of all things. It emphasizes the importance of letting go of attachment to material possessions, appreciating the beauty of simplicity and natural imperfections, and finding inner peace and contentment in the present moment.	Vairagya	Vairagya is a yoga philosophy concept that encourages detachment from worldly desires and attachments, and recognition of the transient nature of all things. It emphasizes the practice of non-attachment, inner peace, and spiritual liberation.
Gaman	Gaman is a Japanese concept that refers to the practice of endurance, perseverance, and patience in the face of challenges and difficulties. It emphasizes the development of inner strength, resilience, and determination to overcome obstacles and challenges in order to achieve personal growth and transformation.	Tapas	Tapas is a yoga philosophy concept that emphasizes the practice of self-discipline and perseverance to achieve spiritual growth and transformation. It encourages the development of inner strength, resilience, and determination to overcome obstacles and challenges in order to achieve personal growth and transformation.
Oubaitori	Oubaitori is a Japanese term that refers to the pursuit of excellence in one’s craft or profession. It emphasizes the practice of continuous improvement and the pursuit of knowledge and excellence.	Svadhyaya	Svadhyaya is a yoga philosophy concept that encourages self-study, self-reflection, and the pursuit of knowledge and excellence in one’s personal development. It emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, growth, and self-improvement in order to achieve personal and spiritual excellence.
Kaizen	Kaizen is a Japanese term that refers to the practice of continuous improvement, often in the context of business and productivity. It emphasizes the importance of making small, incremental changes in order to achieve long-term improvement and success.	Abhyasa	Abhyasa is a yoga philosophy concept that encourages the continuous and consistent practice of yoga and meditation to achieve personal growth and transformation. It emphasizes the importance of consistency, persistence, and dedication in order to achieve one’s goals and aspirations.
Shu-ha-ri	Shu-ha-ri is a Japanese concept that refers to the process of learning and mastery in martial arts, involving progressing from following rules and techniques (shu), to breaking free and experimenting with one’s own approach (ha), and ultimately transcending any limitations or rules (ri).	Svadharma	Svadharma is a yoga philosophy concept that refers to one’s unique, individual path in life, based on their innate qualities, tendencies, and purposes. It emphasizes the importance of discovering and living in alignment with one’s true nature and values in order to achieve personal fulfillment and spiritual growth.