Saamdu Chetri, Ph.D., 64, was born in a cowshed in rural Bhutan. After 5 years of working in the cabinet of Bhutan’s prime minister, Saamdu co-founded and headed Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness Centre. The Centre’s focus on measuring the country’s GNH instead of GDP, and its framework for fostering happier countries, gained worldwide recognition.

Saamdu is the author of 2 books, has been featured extensively in the global media, and generously shares his wisdom on mindfulness and happiness practices at conferences and institutions of learning all over the world.

What are some of the secrets to creating cultures and countries that foster happiness? What are a few simple everyday practices that support mindfulness and invite happiness? How does a “happiness guru” experience inner peace and happiness?