ACMA Hrishikesh R Nampoothiri (M/53599)
(Ph: 7560938431 | Email: hyadu12345@gmail.com)
The intention behind every invention is to make life easier. However, despite the abundance of advanced innovations around us, humanity seems to be in an even more intense race than ever before. Today’s world is far busier than it used to be, with people constantly on the move from morning until dusk. Although the current generation has moved away from the traditional nine-to-five job system and desk jobs common to previous generations, the tension, anxiety, and lifestyle challenges remain unchanged. Each of us is racing to achieve something by the end of the day. Few are concerned about others, perhaps because they are so deeply engrossed in their own race that they have no time to think about anything else.
Due to the continuous mental and emotional pressure, people are falling victim to various health issues, sometimes succumbing to them at younger ages. While this trend is evident across all kinds of jobs and sectors, white-collar workers are especially prone to the restless life and related health concerns. The constant juggling between work and personal life, with little attention to their well-being, not only affects their health but also negatively impacts the well-being of their families.
This is where the concept of 'Yu Tori' comes in. The Japanese philosophy of Yu Tori loosely translates to a sense of well-being that stems from living with spaciousness. It emphasizes the importance of creating mental and emotional space in addition to physical space. Yu Tori highlights the value of having room in one’s life—freedom from overwhelming thoughts and worries—which allows for creativity and calm. This concept has been applied in various contexts, including education and workplaces, promoting a more balanced and less stressful way of living.
The spaciousness of Yu Tori occasionally embraces passivity by not filling every moment of life with activity. This philosophy prioritizes personal and mental well-being over the Western style of constant multitasking and productivity. Yu Tori advocates for moments of non-productivity, which allow time to relax and restart, fostering creativity and enhancing productivity in a meaningful way.
Incorporating Yu Tori in the workplace, though challenging due to resistance from various quarters, can lead to a refreshed and relaxed mindset among employees. This not only reduces burnout but also improves problem-solving abilities and enhances the quality of work. It creates an environment where fresh ideas can flourish, allowing for a more innovative and effective workforce.
Yu Tori can be implemented in daily life without major changes, simply by focusing on "SPEL":
1. Schedule Your Work: Plan your work in a way that allows for small or micro-breaks between tasks. This relieves stress, calms your mind, and improves clarity of thought.
2. Prioritize Refreshment: Dedicate time to activities that boost your creativity. Whether it’s reading, writing, traveling, or practicing yoga, these activities help unclutter your mind and strengthen your mental resilience.
3. Embrace Simplicity: Keep your thoughts and activities minimalistic. Thinking small creates more space in your mind, helping it remain stress-free.
4. Learn to Say 'No': Decline additional tasks or commitments that don’t align with your priorities. Protecting your personal time is crucial for maintaining balance.
You may recall the 'Do Nothing' advertisement for 5-Star chocolates. While the ad might seem quirky, it conveys an important message. Sometimes, doing nothing is better than doing too much. The Yu Tori concept offers a similar perspective, focusing on life balance and mindfulness rather than relentlessly chasing productivity and efficiency.
Like the 5-Star ad, let us slow down. Let us create space in our lives, take time to catch up with ourselves, and free our minds. Let’s embrace Yu Tori.