Lifestyle
How taking on the Misogi Challenge can help expand your life at any age
A Misogi Challenge, based on the ancient Japanese practice of Misogi, can help you hit the ‘refresh’ button on your life – think of it as Marie Kondo-ing for the soul.
By Carolyn Tate
Ever feel the need to shake up your life? Step out of the same tired routines and do something exciting? Or even hit the reset button on your entire life? The Japanese might just have the answer you're looking for.
And, no, it's not another way to tidy your home.
It’s Misogi.
What exactly is Misogi?
Let's start with a bit of cultural context: Misogi literally means 'water cleansing' and it's an ancient Japanese practice that's all about hitting your personal refresh button. Think of it as Marie Kondo-ing your soul!
According to the Misogi Shrine official website, the Japanese view life through the lens of ‘clean’ and ‘dirty’. The idea is beautifully simple: by thoroughly cleansing ourselves (metaphorically speaking), we can turn the page to a new chapter in life. Had a rough year? Misogi suggests you can always return to 'good', no matter how sticky things get.
Okay... do I need to jump into a waterfall?
While traditional Misogi in Japan might involve some actual water rituals (and yes, sometimes actual waterfalls), the modern interpretation – known as the 'Misogi Challenge' – is a bit more flexible.
Here's the deal with a Misogi Challenge: you pick one big, audacious goal for the year. And when we say big, we mean the kind that makes your palms a bit sweaty just thinking about it. It could be:
- Finally launching that podcast you've been dreaming about
- Heading out on your longed-for solo trip to a place you’ve never been
- Starting the small business that's been living in your Notes app for years
- Running your first 5K or 10K or marathon
- Learning to speak Japanese (it seems appropriate).
The key is to make it meaningful to you. Your friend's Misogi Challenge might be climbing Mount Everest, while yours is finally mastering sourdough bread. Basically it’s tackling something that will help you uncover what you’re truly capable of and a reminder that you’re strong enough to do more than you ever thought possible.
Why should you give it a go?
Well, there are a few compelling reasons.
Level up your life
Think of Misogi as your personal expansion pack. The whole point is to push past your comfort zone and emerge as a slightly upgraded version of yourself. It's like those New Year's resolutions we all make, except this time you might actually stick to them.
Discomfort is a great motivator
Feeling stress or uneasiness is a sure sign we need to pull back and find a different path, right? Not according to the science. In fact, the opposite is true – embracing discomfort keeps you motivated and more likely to stick with a task.
Health benefits that sneak up on you
Depending on your chosen challenge, you might find yourself accidentally getting healthier along the way. Whether it's training for a fun run or finally learning to cook proper meals, your body will thank you for it.
Mental gains are the real MVP
Here's where it gets really interesting. Forbes reports that having a concrete goal to work towards can be just the ticket if you're feeling a bit... well, meh. Whether you're retired, between jobs, or just looking for a fresh challenge, Misogi gives you something to jump out of bed for.
Ready to take the plunge?
Misogi isn't about perfection - it's about progress. Whether you're 25 or 85, there's always room for a bit of personal expansion. And unlike those waterfalls in Japan, this modern version lets you keep your feet dry (unless swimming is your challenge, of course!).
So, what's it going to be? What's your Misogi going to look like? Whatever you choose, make it big enough to scare you a little bit but exciting enough to get you moving. There's no time like the present to clean up your act - metaphorically speaking.
Image: iStock/stevecoleimages
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