The root of happiness is gratitude, not gratification – be thankful you’re alive, and for everything that costs nothing to enjoy, such as nature, says a chief happiness officer
- Unhealthy and stressed out, Hong Kong businessman Manesh Pamnani changed his lifestyle, discovered laughter yoga and set up a corporate well-being consultancy
- ‘Making others happy made me happier,’ he says. ‘Happiness doesn’t cost a thing.’ Get it from being thankful and from connecting with family and true friends
In 2006, Hongkonger Mahesh Pamnani was running a large and profitable trading business. He should have been happy, but he wasn’t. He was overworked, anxious, stressed, out of shape – and then developed a serious case of sinusitis, which left him short of breath.
When his doctor recommended surgery, Pamnani declined. Instead, he consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, who suggested changes to his diet and lifestyle.
Within six months, after cutting out sugar, salt and processed foods, exercising regularly, and taking Chinese herbal medicines, Pamnani had shed 16kg (35lb), was back in fighting form – and breathing easier.
After his return to health, and with his stress under control, Pamnani felt true contentment. This sparked his interest in seeking out healthy lifestyle practices.