adverb
as one pleases; on a whim; following one's fancy
Describes acting spontaneously without a fixed plan, driven by one's mood or inclination. Often used in literary or reflective contexts.
休日は気の向くままに散歩するのが好きだ。
On my days off, I like to take a walk wherever my fancy leads me.
彼は気の向くままに絵を描き始めた。
He started painting on a whim.
気まま is a na-adjective/noun meaning 'self-indulgent' or 'doing as one pleases,' often with a nuance of selfishness. 気の向くままに is an adverbial phrase emphasizing spontaneous, mood-driven action without negative connotation.
思いのまま means 'as one wishes' or 'to one's heart's content,' focusing on desire or will. 気の向くままに is more about following a passing mood or whim rather than a strong desire.
A set phrase composed of 気 (mind/mood), の (possessive particle), 向く (to turn toward/be inclined), and ままに (as it is/according to). Literally 'as the mind turns,' it has been used since at least the Edo period to mean acting on a whim.