My Ways of Attaining, Sustaining and Nurturing Wellbeing: A Phenomenological Inquiry

Abstract

This study reflects on my personal and professional experiences related to wellbeing. I viewed myself as both a being and a subject of study, focusing on understanding and improving my own sense of wellbeing. This self-inquiry aimed to explore how I can achieve, maintain, and nurture wellbeing in my professional life. Drawing from Eastern Wisdom Traditions, particularly the question "Who am I?", I used a phenomenological approach. I observed and reflected on my thoughts, feelings, emotions, insights, and intuitions. Using the Eastern practice of shrawana-manana-nidhidhyasana (listening, reflecting, meditating), I examined my daily experiences of wellbeing and distress. This study explored three key ways or paths (margas) toward enhancing wellbeing across various professional settings. It also revealed different ways of understanding and learning about wellbeing, leading to a shift in my perspective. I came to see wellbeing not just as physical, emotional, social, psychological, financial, or mindful health, but also as a spiritual value, a competency, and an ongoing process of growth.