Happiness is a journey we all embark on, often without even realising it. It is the silent force guiding our choices and dreams. The purpose of this column is to illuminate this ultimate pursuit, Happiness. In the first edition of Happiness with Mr Bhutan, I had the privilege of conversing with former Prime Minister Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering, who is a medical doctor and the current Governor of Gelephu Mindfulness City, to delve into his personal philosophy on happiness and his approach to finding harmony in life.

How would you personally define happiness?

Happiness is having clarity in what you want out of life and the ability to focus on what you are currently doing to achieve it.

Now that we have an understanding of your definition of happiness, let’s explore how you experience it in your own life.

On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate your current level of happiness, where 1 represents barely surviving and 10 represents thriving?

I rate myself a 9.

Please list, in order of importance, the five most significant factors that contribute to your happiness.

Health: Health is the foundation of everything, including happiness. I follow the Goldilocks principle, not too much, not too little. I am very mindful about finding the right balance of exercise and nutrition that works for me. Each morning, I start with 15 minutes of stretching in bed. Mountain biking is my principal form of exercise, and when biking isn’t an option, I use the elliptical. I always travel with an exercise elastic band. I also incorporate weight training 2-3 times a week in my home gym. I currently eat only two meals a day and avoid consuming any food after dark. My diet is mostly vegetarian, though Shikam is my weakness. I follow a very low-carbohydrate diet, with most of my carbs coming from vegetables and whole grains like quinoa. I consume minimal fat, primarily in the form of cow butter, and I avoid using fancy oils like olive oil.

Money: I consider money the second most important factor in my happiness, after health. I need it to afford the healthy food and activities I enjoy. However, I don’t work for profit or to become wealthy, as I recognise that money is only necessary to meet my basic needs. I am fully aware that money can’t solve all of my problems, so I align my expectations and desires with my current salary.

Family: When I say family, I’m referring to both my biological family and my in-laws. I rely on their support to maintain a high quality of well-being. I am always available to love and support them, and I hope the same from them in return. I often enjoy meals prepared by my mother, which is a small but meaningful way to honor the love she expresses through her cooking.

Environment: My environment includes my friends, neighbours, community, nature, and my country. Bhutan’s environment is close to perfect, and living here plays a significant role in contributing to my overall happiness.

Good Governance: Public policies, healthcare, education systems, as well as the political environment and low crime levels in Bhutan, all play a crucial role in supporting my overall well-being.

How do you see your role in contributing to the happiness and well-being of the people of Bhutan?

I don’t believe in preaching; I focus on my own actions. If others are positively influenced by what I do, that brings me happiness. As a doctor and public figure, I’m always mindful of how I conduct myself, both in my personal and public life.

Assessment of Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering, based on an in-person interview and responses to Mr Bhutan’s Health and Happiness Questionnaire

Sleep score (Very poor sleep)

Advice: If health is the cornerstone of a happy life, then sleep is the foundation upon which health rests. I would strongly encourage Dasho to prioritize at least seven hours of sleep each night. Additionally, I advise avoiding the use of all screens an hour before bed, as the blue light emitted by these devices signals the brain to remain alert, delaying the release of melatonin, the hormone that helps us fall and stay asleep. Moreover, the stimulating nature of the content consumed through screens can hinder mental relaxation, which is essential for achieving deep, restorative rest.

Nutrition score (Excellent nutrition)

Comment: His optimal diet is largely due to his simple and flexible, mostly vegetarian approach to nutrition. He neither smokes nor drinks alcohol. What stands out most is his mindfulness, genuine concern, and skill in managing his nutritional needs. He does this in such a way that it causes no physical or emotional discomfort to those around him, a rare and commendable quality.

Exercise score (Good) 

Comment: Dr. Lotay understands that exercise is one of the essential foundations of health and happiness. He consistently prioritizes and makes time for it, regardless of his location or life circumstances.

Advice: Reducing his sitting time at work by incorporating a standing desk, standing whenever possible, and performing simple full body stretches sprinkled throughout the day will significantly reduce stress and alleviate his back and knee pain. The human body is designed to move, and it dislikes holding a single position for extended periods.

Happiness score (Very happy) 

Advice: Making a special effort to reserve some time no matter how little, daily for himself to do the things he loves and enjoys will further contribute to his already very happy existence.

Dr Lotay’s life embodies humility, simplicity, discipline, and the pursuit of balance. His grounded approach to health and happiness serves as a reminder that true well-being is not found in grand gestures, but in everyday choices. As we continue our journey toward happiness, let us remember that it is the small, mindful steps we take each day that will ultimately lead us toward a fulfilling life.

Tshering Dorji

Health & Happiness Coach | Mind-Body Specialist

As a passionate advocate for holistic well-being, I blend time-tested Eastern wisdom, modern science, and practical real-world insights to help others build antifragile minds and bodies that support their journey to happiness.

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