Unlock Happiness Today: The Bhutan Approach – Those who know me know that Africa is my heart’s place. I recently traveled to the green, mountainous country of Bhutan, known as the Kingdom of Happiness. Located in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is bordered by China to the north and India to the south. If Africa is my heart’s place, Bhutan is my spiritual place.
As a well-being author and teacher, I write about the eight happiness essentials—core values and habits embodied by those who lead deeply fulfilling lives—which serve as the foundation for greater purpose and self-awareness. The first and most foundational Happiness Essential is faith; however, you define it yourself. Faith is woven into every aspect of life there. Monks of all ages are often seen walking through cities and towns. Their presence is a reminder of the profound importance of spirituality to one’s well-being. You can see and hear prayer flags fluttering in the wind, bringing all blessings for peace, health, and happiness. The people of this kingdom are deeply connected to their Buddhist rituals and practices. That connection can be seen and felt wherever you go.
So, what makes this place the Kingdom of Happiness? How can a small country, geographically isolated, carry this distinction? Well, it goes far beyond its beautiful landscapes or rich cultural heritage. What truly sets this area apart is how life is lived—humbly, spiritually, in community, and with respect for the environment. The government has adopted the Gross National Happiness (GNH) index to measure success, focusing on more than just economic growth. GNH looks at spiritual well-being, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation. It is based on the understanding that material wealth cannot bring lasting happiness. Inner peace, cultural values, and a sense of belonging are what bring true contentment.
In Bhutan, spirituality is part of everyday life. People constantly dialogue with their spiritual beliefs, which are reflected in everything, from how their homes and temples are built to align with nature to how they practice mindfulness and meditation.
Each day, I felt a peaceful energy radiating from the people, their faith a part of who they are. There was a quiet reverence and a deep connection to the present moment wherever I went. What if we could all live with a bit more of the peace and mindfulness I witnessed there?
One practice that really struck me was what I came to call a “prayer walk.” People of all ages, shapes, and sizes prayerfully walk around sacred sites clockwise. My guide explained that this is because most people are right-handed, and walking to the right helps cleanse any negative energy created by the right hand. They are mindful of each movement, reflecting on their intentions, faith, and relationship with all around them. This practice shows how spirituality and the physical world are meaningfully connected.
Community is also an essential aspect of life. People often come together for religious ceremonies, festivals, and shared rituals. There is a sense of interdependence, where personal well-being is tied to the well-being of the whole. This creates a strong sense of togetherness, support, and security that contributes to happiness.
Living in harmony with oneself, others, and nature is key to their way of life. It is a form of spiritual mindfulness that encourages gratitude, compassion, and awareness in everything they do. Boy, could we use more of that in the West? We often rush through life without pausing, reflecting, and connecting with what truly matters. If we did, just maybe there would be less division and greater equanimity.
In my time there, I saw how different this approach to happiness is from the fast-paced, material-driven culture many of us are accustomed to. The people there reaffirmed that happiness cannot be bought or achieved through external success. Genuine happiness is an inside job that begins with a choice backed up by intentional practices that create inner peace, a connection with something greater than us, and a sense of belonging.
I returned to my home with memories of a sacred place and a renewed sense of what it means to live a life that includes spiritual fulfillment. Happiness is best embraced with an open heart, a clear mind, and a connection to something greater than ourselves.
In my work, I encourage seekers to cultivate the eight Happiness Essentials I write about, starting with faith, as the people there do so beautifully. Whether through religion, nature, or mindfulness, make spirituality a part of your daily life. When you ground yourself in faith and approach life, you create more loving relationships, take better care of your health, become more grateful, forgiving, and peaceful, and do not hold on so tightly to outcomes. Ultimately, you live a life of greater abundance that creates a more resilient and happier life.
I invite you to explore how faith can be more present in your daily routine. Let it be your guide towards a more intentional existence.
Part of this article is an excerpt from my next book, “Take a Shot at Abundance.”
My debut book, “Take a Shot at Happiness: How to Write, Direct & Produce the Life You Want,” was voted “Best Personal Development Book of the Year 2024” and received the 2025 Leader of the Year award from this magazine. It has won twelve prestigious awards, including the Silver Nautilus Book Award and several category-winning honors from the NYC Big Book, National Indie Excellence Awards, Best Book Award, and the Independent Press Award. It was also featured in New York’s Times Square.
You can find more intentional practices in my book or by downloading my Take a Shot at Happiness app.
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