Special on International Day of Happiness
In the digital rush, the mind grows weary—Ayurveda shows the path to balance
Author: Prof. Satish Gandharve, Dean (In-charge), National Institute of Ayurveda, Panchkula
In Indian culture, happiness is not merely an emotion but a way of life. “Stay healthy, stay happy, and live a balanced life” is the core principle of Ayurveda—meaning the path to happiness lies within it. Ayurveda teaches that true happiness can only be achieved by maintaining balance between the body, mind, and soul. Therefore, it is important to take some time out for oneself from the busyness of the fast-paced, digital world and prioritize one’s health and mental peace.
Under the aegis of the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, and under the guidance of Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Sanjeev Sharma and Dean Prof. Gulab Chand Pamnani, the National Institute of Ayurveda, Panchkula is playing a significant role in promoting a disease-free life through Ayurveda. Yoga, meditation, proper diet, lifestyle practices, and Ayurvedic treatments have proven effective in relieving stress, insomnia, depression, and fatigue. After all, the true purpose of life is not just success or wealth, but a balanced and happy life.
The digital revolution has made our lives easier, and social media platforms have connected us to every corner of the world. With a single click, we can share our thoughts, emotions, and experiences. However, along with this convenience comes a challenge—are these digital connections truly making us happy, or are we getting trapped in an illusion of virtual satisfaction? The International Day of Happiness reminds us that the real race in life is to stay happy. The theme for 2026 focuses on the complex relationship between digital technology and emotional well-being. This topic is highly relevant, as modern individuals are now more engaged in the digital world than in the real one.
While “virtual connections” are increasing, “real connections” are weakening. Even when families sit together, individuals remain absorbed in their mobile phones. Conversations have been replaced by chats, and emotions by emojis. In such a scenario, it becomes essential to use technology in a balanced and mindful way. Competition, a fast-paced lifestyle, social pressure, and digital living have made people feel internally lonely and dissatisfied. In such times, the Indian system of Ayurveda, along with yoga and meditation, proves highly effective in bringing happiness into life. Happiness is not just an emotional experience—it has a profound impact on our health and quality of life. People who are happy tend to have stronger immunity and better mental balance.
Happiness is also directly linked to our social relationships. Those who maintain positive relationships with family, friends, and society tend to be more content and happy. Therefore, not just success but meaningful human connections are essential in life. When a person is happy, positive hormones such as endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine become active in the body, reducing stress and calming the mind. On the contrary, continuous stress and negative thinking give rise to various illnesses, including high blood pressure, insomnia, depression, and heart disease. Ayurveda does not define health merely as a physical condition but as a state of balance between the body, mind, and soul. According to Ayurveda, it is essential to maintain balance among the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—along with a calm and content mind.
Mental balance holds great importance in Ayurveda. It emphasizes that a balanced diet, a disciplined daily routine, yoga, meditation, and positive thinking can help a person attain mental peace. Ancient Ayurvedic texts state that if a person lives in accordance with the laws of nature, both body and mind remain healthy. Waking up at sunrise, consuming clean and wholesome food, exercising regularly, and getting adequate sleep are habits that keep both the body and mind cheerful.
In Ayurveda, daily routine (Dinacharya) and seasonal regimen (Ritucharya) are considered extremely important. If a person aligns their lifestyle with nature, they can avoid many physical and mental problems. Waking up early, practicing yoga and pranayama, eating nutritious food, and sleeping on time are key elements of an Ayurvedic lifestyle. These help maintain energy in the body and calmness in the mind. Ayurveda considers food as medicine. Fresh fruits, green vegetables, grains, ghee, milk, and medicinal herbs strengthen the body and help maintain mental balance. Along with this, adequate sleep, limited use of digital devices, and staying connected with nature are essential for a happy life.
The theme of International Day of Happiness 2026 teaches us that technology should be a means to happiness, not a burden. First and foremost, it is important to set limits on the use of social media. “Digital detox”—taking a break from technology for some time—can be extremely beneficial for mental peace.
