Are you afraid of Monday mornings? These simple Japanese tips to make you happy will help you change the start to your week with positive notes.
Monday – The word brings memories of returning to a frightening week for some. But what if we say Monday could be a source of enthusiasm and joy rather than anxiety? Japanese culture is full of ancient traditions that promote art that brings small, consistent change that nourishes the mind, body and soul. You can draw inspiration from Wabi Sabi’s Japanese philosophy that helps you discover the beauty of imperfections and the art of Ikigai that will help you discover your purpose in life. Incorporating these tips to be happy in your daily routine can turn your Monday from boring to bliss.
5 Simple Japanese Tips for Being Happy
If you’re looking for a way to beat Monday’s Blues, try these practical Japanese recommendations for happiness.
1. Mindful Walking or (Shinrinyoku)
This practice involves immersing yourself in nature and connecting with the senses. Take a relaxing walk around the park and forest and pay attention to the sights, sounds and scents surrounding you. Deep breathing and seeing nature helps relieve tension and promote relaxation, as seen in research published in International Environmental Studies and Public Health. Leave the phone and focus on your surroundings. Notice the sunlight filters the leaves, the rustling of leaves under your feet, and bird songs. Shinrin-Yoku is not about reaching your destination, but about the journey itself, and is considered one of the best Japanese tips to make you happy. Slowing down and assessing the natural environment will help you build a sense of peace and calm and establish a good tone on Monday.
2. Tea Art or (sad)
Japanese tea ceremony is a practice that promotes mindfulness, respect and peace. Even simple tea can be a mindful experience, as seen in a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Prepare the tea slowly and intentionally and appreciate its aroma and taste. Taste each bite and use it as an opportunity to calm your mind and connect with the present moment. Whether it’s a traditional matcha ceremony or simply brewing a cup of green tea, focus on this process. Preparing and tasting tea is a meditative experience that brings a sense of calm and tranquility to a Monday morning.

3. Practice of gratitude or (Kansha)
Cultivating gratitude is the foundation of Japanese culture. Every morning, I take a little time to reflect on the small things I value and appreciate. This can be anything from a warm bed to the kindness of a stranger. Expressing gratitude is one of the best ways to be happy, as seen in research published by the NIH, to change your focus from negativity to positiveness and set the more optimistic tone of the day. You can maintain a magazine of gratitude, share your gratitude with your loved ones, and take a few moments of quiet reflection to acknowledge the good things in your life. By fostering gratitude, we will develop a more positive way of thinking and will be able to approach Monday with a new sense of gratitude for this time.
4. Find the beauty of incomplete or bald sarbi
Wabi-Sabi is a Japanese aesthetic that embraces imperfection, temporality and simplicity. “Instead of striving for perfection, we learn to appreciate flaws and unfinished beauty. This will help you let go of unrealistic expectations and find satisfaction in the present moment, making it one of the best tips for happiness,” says Dr. Jyoti Kapoor, a mental health expert. Accept the natural wear of your belongings, appreciate the unique personality of handmade objects, and find beauty in the fleeting nature of the season. By embracing Wabi-Sabi, you can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the simple things in life, and discover joy in the unique imperfections of each moment.

5. Find your purpose or slut in life
Ikigai is a Japanese concept that refers to your “reason for existence.” It’s the intersection of what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, what you need, what you can pay for. “Take some time to reflect on your passion and value and discover your slut,” says the expert. Connecting with your purpose can give meaning to your life and provide a sense of fulfillment. By linking your work and personal life with your slut, you can find a deep sense of satisfaction and joy, making Mondays and everyday life more meaningful and fulfilling.
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Incorporating these Japanese tips to make you happy can greatly increase your Monday morning. These practices encourage you to be late, appreciate the present moment and find joy in the simplest things in life. By making these Japanese tips happy in your everyday life, you can turn Monday from a scary chore to a welcome opportunity for personal growth and happiness.
Related FAQs
Why do you feel sad on Monday?
Mondays often cause feelings of sadness, leading to loss of control and increased stress due to a sudden shift from a relaxed weekend pace to a structured demand for work week.
How to make yourself happy on Monday?
To make yourself happy on Monday, try to ease the transition by planning relaxing activities in the evening, listening to bright music, or spending time in nature, mitigating the transition by starting your day with a positive routine.