For the last four years, Ravi and I have begun each year with a ten-day stay at a naturopathy clinic in Kerala. It is a unique experience that focuses on detoxification while enhancing overall well-being.

Each day includes multiple therapies, along with yoga and meditation. One such morning, I underwent a therapy called the Spinal Bath. I settled into a reclining position in a tub, with my back fully submerged in warm water. The therapist then covered me with a crisp cotton sheet.

For the next twenty minutes, I experienced a state of deep calm, happiness, and bliss. As I lay there, a thought crossed my mind—perhaps this is the natural state of happiness we are born with. If so, why do we gradually lose it? And more importantly, how can we sustain it?

I feel that our happiness quotient is often determined by the perceived balance between Reality and Expectations.

When the two are aligned, we experience deeper happiness.

However, we often allow expectations to rise far beyond reality—and in doing so, reduce our own sense of contentment.

Over time, we also condition ourselves to associate happiness only with major milestones—the graduation, the first job, the first car or house, and many more that follow.

Soon, these expectations extend to our children and their achievements. And as expectations continue to rise, happiness often quietly declines.

In this pursuit, we overlook the simple moments that bring daily joy—the sunrise, the laughter of a loved one, or a relaxed cup of tea shared with a friend or partner.

So, what is the answer?

I believe it lies in consciously finding joy in small daily moments, practicing gratitude for good health and loving relationships, and learning to manage our expectations.

When we begin to focus on the positives in our everyday journey and consciously collect these moments of joy, our happiness quotient naturally rises.