How misogi celebrates one big win and the science of cosiness

About this episode

The episode explores the Japanese ritual of misogi, the importance of setting challenging goals, and the cultural significance of cosiness, alongside discussions on inclusion in sports.

Recently, the Japanese Shinto ritual of misogi has been gaining traction online. It's a simple concept where each year you set yourself one main challenge that's so hard you might actually fail. The reward is in the attempt, rather than the success. Adventure photographer Daygin Prescott shares what he's learned from his own misogi, and researcher Hugh Riddell explains the benefits of striving towards one big goal at a time. This week the AFL — and elite athletes across the sporting spectrum — sent a clear message that homophobic comments on the field can no longer be excused simply because they were said in the heat of the contest. Pride Cup CEO Hayley Conway explores how this moment sends a message to players and fans across all levels of competition, and what the future looks like for inclusion in sport. The Danish call it hygge. The Dutch? Gezellig. In Sweden, it's known as mysig. Whatever you call it, celebrating and creating rituals around cosiness can be a salve in those cold winter months. Even in warmer parts of the world, many of us relish the opportunity to rug up as the seasons change. Journalist John Hanscombe and cultural researcher David Rowe settle in for a warm…

People in this episode

Guests: Daygin Prescott, Hugh Riddell, Hayley Conway, John Hanscombe, David Rowe

Topics covered

• misogi
• cosiness
• inclusion in sport
• homophobia in sports
• cultural rituals
• goal setting

Keywords

• misogi
• cosiness
• AFL
• inclusion
• goal setting
• cultural rituals
• homophobia

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: AFL, Pride Cup

Places: Japan, Denmark, Netherlands, Sweden

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