Do you want to learn how to meditate or do yoga? Do you want to be motivated by someone’s transformation journey to wellness? Do you want to know how music can tap into your brain’s health? We’ve got you covered with these eight movies and documentaries.
On Happiness and Culture: “Happy”
“Happy” by Roko Belic is a documentary that explores the idea of happiness by conducting interviews with people from everywhere in the world. They ask what happiness is and if how people can be happier.
On the Long-Term Effects of Fast Food: “Supersize Me”
The most eye-opening documentary about fast food is “Supersize Me. “Supersize Me” follows filmmaker Morgan Spurlock as he consumes only fast food for 30 days. Spurlock gained 24 pounds after a month of eating three meals a day at the fast-food joint. It took him over a year to shed weight and regain his health after that.
On The Modern Diet: “In Defense of Food”
Michael Pollan is the writer of numerous influential food-associated books, such as “The Omnivore’s Dilemma” and “In Defense of Food.” Pollan’s seven-word manifesto goes, “Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.” The documentary talks about the Western diet, along with the mounds of processed meals and sugar we’re confronted within the supermarket, and the way to consume better.
On Food and Chronic Diseases: “What the Health?”
If you weren’t living under a rock last year, you’ll recall “What the Health?”, the documentary that inspired everyone to try becoming a vegetarian for a week. While some critics believe the film is biased and fails to convey the health benefits of a carnivorous diet, it is eye-opening to see how we may prevent chronic disease through lifestyle choices.
On Yoga and Meditation: “Awake: The Life of Yogananda”
Paramahansa Yogananda was an Indian yogi who moved to the United States in the 1920s and attracted celebrities such as George Harrison and Steve Jobs to his cause. His work “Autobiography of a Yogi” is regarded as one of the best spiritual writings of the twentieth century. He writes about ancient meditation teachings. This documentary published in 2014 covers his life and interviews with those who have been inspired by his ideas.
On Music and the Brain: “Alive Inside”
Since the first person dropped a beat, music has been invoking emotions and making people dance in a variety of ways. The movie “Alive Inside” from 2014 demonstrates that music can reach people who might otherwise be considered unreachable: Alzheimer’s patients. Watch as music has an astonishing effect on people and learn about the significance of music in memory formation in this documentary.
On Spirituality and Self-care: “Eat Pray Love”
There’s a reason this film is regarded as a wellness handbook. The film, which is based on Elizabeth Gilbert’s 2006 memoir, covers life after a failed marriage. Elizabeth Gilbert, played by Julia Roberts, embarks on a whirlwind journey around the world in quest of her soul, testing herself in faith, food, and romance. It’s an excellent lesson in self-care.
On Planet Health and the Environment: “Sustainable”
“Sustainable” helps us comprehend what environmental stewardship means. This film will help you better understand your link with the earth, the influence of the food system, and the consequences of agricultural concerns such as soil loss, water depletion, and pesticide use on our choices and health.
Binge-watching series can be an attractive way to unwind, but the above movie selections can also provide an opportunity to learn about and teach about wellness and sustainability. What do you choose?
