Unravel with Elaine Clark
Unravel, hosted by Elaine Clark, explores the intersection of mental health and physical health. Through expert interviews and insightful conversations, we uncover science-backed tools and practices for well-being and personal growth.
Whether you’re seeking to cultivate resilience, challenge misconceptions, or reconnect with your innate wisdom, Unravel offers the insights and guidance to support your journey.
Science meets embodiment. Let’s explore what it means to unravel the layers—together.
Unravel with Elaine Clark
21- The Science of Happiness with Dr. Gillian Mandich
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What if happiness isn’t something you arrive at—but something you practice?
As we step into a new year, many of us find ourselves chasing happiness through goals, achievements, or self-improvement plans. But decades of research tell a very different story.
In this episode of Unravel, I’m joined by Dr. Gillian Mandich, health science researcher, two-time TEDx speaker, and founder of the International Happiness Institute of Health Science Research. Together, we explore happiness not as a destination, but as a daily, embodied practice shaped by our thoughts, behaviors, relationships, and nervous systems.
We unpack why happiness doesn’t come from money, success, or achievement, and what actually sustains wellbeing over a lifetime.
In this conversation, we unravel:
- Why happiness is deeply personal—and why many of us struggle to define what truly makes us happy
- The science behind happiness as a practice, not a personality trait
- The “happiness pie chart” and what portion of wellbeing is actually within our influence
- The myth of a fixed happiness set point—and whether lasting change is possible
- Evidence-based happiness hygiene practices, including gratitude, meditation, and small daily habits that make a big difference
- How embodiment, awareness, and meaning play a role in sustained wellbeing
🔗 Connect with Dr. Gillian Mandich
Website: https://www.gillianmandich.com
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📚 Research Reference
The Harvard Study of Adult Development
A longitudinal study spanning more than 75 years, examining what predicts health, happiness, and longevity across the lifespan.
Learn more: https://www.adultdevelopmentstudy.org/