To be well is to feel well and function well. It’s a simple idea according to international wellbeing research expert prof. dr. Meike Bartels (VU Amsterdam). But what does this mean when we examine it more closely? In short, no one size fits all. Life is complex, we all have our own peculiar interpretation of it, and it even changes as we age and experience new things. That’s why Meike emphasizes taking the time to know oneself as the first step in the journey towards wellbeing. Nonetheless, this is also a communal effort. For us to feel and function better, we need a paradigm shift. We need to embrace what makes us different, and scientific insights can help us do so. Combining data coming from genetic findings and modern tracking technologies, Meike aims to dive deeper into each person’s health to explore what feels better for each and every one of us. Ultimately, if you’re well, then you’ll contribute to other people’s wellbeing too. And what goes around, comes around. Everybody wins.

Highlights of the episode:

Minute (01:50) – Definition of wellbeing. A simple, yet complex, life course perspective.

Minute (09:40) – Is it your genes or the environment? A constant interplay and the use of modern technology to see the connections.

Minute (20:30) – Wellbeing and stress. The importance of knowing oneself and relativizing. 

Minute (31:15) – Differences between people. Genetics as a way of seeing how diverse we are.

Minute (39:35) – A society based on wellbeing. Contributing positively to each other’s life.

Give the episode a listen to dive deeper into my conversation with Meike! I hope you enjoy it.

Marcos

For more on Meike’s work at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, check out:

Credits:

Host: Marcos Ross

Production: Anouk Weverling

Supported by: Myrte Schoenmakers, Artemis Stefani and Noa van Zwieten

Music: Marcos Ross