Imagine sitting on your couch, wrapped in a cozy blanket, sipping on a warm cup of tea, and getting ready to dive into the world of well-being through the lens of a documentary. That sounds like the perfect way to spend an evening, right? But not just any evening, an evening that will change your life as you know it!
From mental health to physical health, inner peace to community happiness, the complicated and interconnected world of well-being are explored in these 10 monumental documentaries. Each film has the power to enlighten, inspire, and most importantly, shift your perspective on what it means to live a healthy and fulfilling life.
So, grab your remote and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery… and possibly transformation!
1. The Game Changers: Challenging the View of Meat in a Healthy Diet
The documentary “The Game Changers” aims to challenge the belief that animal-based protein is necessary for good health and strength. It was directed by Louie Psihoyos and produced by James Cameron, Novak Djokovic, Lewis Hamilton, Jackie Chan, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Chris Paul.
This ground-breaking film features elite athletes, Special Forces trainers, visionary scientists, and cultural icons who promote a whole-food, plant-based diet as the ultimate approach to achieving peak physical performance.
At the center of the documentary is the journey of James Wilks, an elite Special Forces trainer and winner of The Ultimate Fighter, who travels the globe in search of the healthiest and most effective diet for human beings. Through compelling interviews and scientific evidence, “The Game Changers” not only dismisses the perception that meat is necessary for muscle growth and energy but also raises awareness about the power of a plant-based lifestyle.
This persuasive documentary presents a different angle on well-being, highlighting the benefits of plant-based eating not just for individual health, but also for the health of our planet. In contrast to the preachy tone of some health documentaries, “The Game Changers” maintains an informative and eye-opening approach, making it an engaging and transformative watch for anyone interested in optimizing their health and well-being.
By transforming the way we view protein sources and the role of meat in our diets, “The Game Changers” undoubtedly contributes to a shift in the perspective on well-being and encourages viewers to make more conscious choices about their dietary habits, ultimately promoting healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. [1][2]
2. My Octopus Teacher: The Wonders of the Natural World
An award-winning documentary that has captivated audiences worldwide, My Octopus Teacher offers a mesmerizing look into the wonders of the natural world through an extraordinary tale of friendship. This inspiring film follows the unusual bond formed between a filmmaker and an octopus in South Africa’s kelp forest, leaving viewers with a deep sense of awe for the beauty and intelligence of these fascinating creatures.
Narrated from the perspective of the filmmaker, avid diver, and naturalist Craig Foster, My Octopus Teacher showcases the intricacies of nature through stunning underwater footage captured over an entire year. The documentary portrays the resilience, adaptability, and curiosity of the octopus, as it navigates its marine environment filled with predators and challenges.
The emotional depth of the film has been widely praised and has earned it numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2021. My Octopus Teacher not only highlights the wonder and importance of preserving our planet’s natural ecosystems but also emphasizes the connection between humans and nature. The documentary serves as a powerful reminder that we are all interconnected in the intricate web of life.
For nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and anyone open to exploring the beauty of the natural world, My Octopus Teacher is a must-watch documentary. Its captivating storytelling, coupled with awe-inspiring visuals, will leave you with a renewed appreciation and respect for the incredible, diverse world that we inhabit. [3][4]
3. The Mind Explained: Understanding the Intricacies of the Human Brain
The Mind Explained is a captivating documentary series that delves deep into the intricate workings of the human brain, aiming to provide insights into our mental processes and how they affect our overall well-being. This mesmerizing series sheds light on the diverse aspects of the human mind, from memory and dreams to anxiety and mindfulness.
Having assembled a team of world-renowned neuroscientists, psychologists, and experts in various fields, this documentary takes the audience on an enchanting journey, unraveling the mysteries of the brain and demystifying its complex functions. The thought-provoking episodes reveal exciting scientific findings and breakthroughs that offer new perspectives on our understanding of the brain.
Each episode is intricately woven with cutting-edge research, lucid explanations, engaging animations, and captivating real-life stories. Viewers gain a wealth of knowledge about the workings of their own minds, which empowers them to make better choices about their mental and emotional well-being.
The Mind Explained showcases the human brain’s astonishing capabilities and adapts a narrative that emphasizes our potential for growth, learning, and self-improvement.
Through this enlightening documentary series, one can develop a newfound appreciation for the extraordinary power of the human brain. It serves as a valuable resource that encourages individuals to explore the depths of their own cognitive abilities, ultimately leading to a more profound understanding of themselves and the world around them. [5][6]
4. Dirty Money: Exposing the Dark Side of Capitalism
Discover the hidden side of the business world in the captivating documentary series “Dirty Money“, which delves deep into the underbelly of capitalism, unveiling a realm where morality takes a back seat to profit and power.
Through a series of gripping episodes, the series offers a raw and unfiltered look into the ruthless tactics employed by some of the wealthiest and most influential corporations, illustrating how the pursuit of wealth can lead to widespread corruption, environmental damage, and social injustice.
The series features episodes that focus on remarkable stories of corporate greed, such as the Volkswagen emissions scandal, the subprime mortgage crisis, and the notorious fraud case involving Wells Fargo.
Throughout the series, viewers are presented with shocking firsthand accounts from whistleblowers, intricate investigations, and expert testimonies, which demonstrate the deceitful and often unlawful measures some businesses take in order to maximize profits.
As “Dirty Money” exposes the dark side of capitalism, audiences are challenged to question the ethical implications and societal consequences of the endless pursuit of monetary gain. By shining a light on these complex and often hidden issues, this powerful documentary series not only heightens awareness but also inspires critical thinking and meaningful discussion around the impact of corporatism on our well-being and the future of our planet.
Prepare to be intrigued and appalled in equal measure, as you embark on a journey that will undoubtedly shift your perspective on wealth, power, and the true cost of prosperity. [7][8]
5. Expedition Happiness: Living Life to the Fullest
Expedition Happiness is an inspiring documentary that showcases the journey of a young couple as they embark on a life-changing adventure, seeking happiness and fulfillment along the way.
Directed by Felix Starck, this uplifting film follows filmmaker Selima Taibi and her partner, Mogli, as they travel across America in a converted school bus named “Happiness.” Their expedition aims to explore the true meaning of happiness, challenge societal expectations, and encourage viewers to prioritize well-being and live life to the fullest.
Throughout their voyage, Taibi and Mogli encounter breathtaking landscapes, diverse communities, and heartwarming stories of individuals who have overcome adversity or pursued alternative lifestyles. This film encourages the audience to reflect on the notion of happiness from various perspectives, emphasizing the importance of personal choice, connection with nature, and fostering meaningful relationships.
Expedition Happiness reminds us that well-being is not a one-size-fits-all concept; rather, it depends on individual values and circumstances. By spotlighting their own transformative journey, Taibi and Mogli inspire people to reevaluate their priorities and reconsider the path they’re on, ultimately promoting self-awareness and self-discovery.
As a testament to the importance of living life to the fullest and pursuing happiness on one’s terms, Expedition Happiness serves as a hopeful and motivational reminder that true well-being is attainable through embracing adventure, remaining open-minded, and valuing the things that bring joy and purpose to our lives.
6. The Social Dilemma: The Dark Side of Social Media
In today’s digital era, social media has become an integral part of our lives. However, The Social Dilemma, a compelling Netflix documentary, sheds light on the darker aspects of these platforms. With insights from former tech insiders and whistleblowers who helped develop some of the most popular social networking products, the film reveals the issues we encounter due to our increased dependence on social media.
One of the key revelations from the documentary is that social media is designed to be addictive. The constant flow of likes, retweets, and shares triggers a dopamine response in our brains, similar to the effects of addictive substances. This deliberate design, driven by a business model that seeks to keep users engaged and advertisers paying, keeps us hooked to our screens, often at the cost of our mental health.
Children, who are increasingly growing up with social media, are particularly vulnerable to its dark sides. Many studies highlight the link between excessive social media use and poor mental health, anxiety, and depression in young people, which is a matter of grave concern.
The documentary also points out that our online experience is tailored based on algorithms that know our preferences and weaknesses, creating echo chambers that polarize society and jeopardize our ability to engage in informed discussions.
The Social Dilemma is a thought-provoking and eye-opening film that encourages viewers to take a step back and examine the impact of social media on their lives. By fostering awareness about the potential pitfalls of these platforms, the documentary urges us to make conscious decisions that promote our well-being in an increasingly digital world. [11][12]
7. Rotten: Revealing the Hidden Costs of Our Favorite Foods
Rotten is an eye-opening and thought-provoking documentary series produced by Netflix and Zero Point Zero Production that delves into the hidden costs and consequences of our favorite foods. From honey and peanut production to garlic farming and the ever-controversial world of fish and seafood, Rotten unveils the complex and often detrimental practices within these industries.
Throughout the series, viewers are introduced to the exploitation of resources, environmental damage, and human rights violations that are often overlooked due to our insatiable appetite for certain foods. By examining the production process and supply chain of these items, the documentary highlights the moral and ethical dilemmas consumers face each time they step into a supermarket or order at a restaurant.
However, Rotten also aims to inform and empower viewers by providing a deeper understanding of where their food comes from and what it took to reach their plates. With a firm emphasis on sustainable agricultural practices and ethical consumption habits, the series advocates for mindful eating and sheds light on the powerful impact conscious consumer choices can have on global food markets.
Rotten is a movie that helps us learn about the environment and how our food choices affect it. It encourages us to make better food choices for the future of our planet. We can learn more about what it costs to make our favorite foods. This way, we can make better decisions and help protect the world we share.
8. Minimalism: The Futility of Accumulating Things
In today’s consumer-driven society, it is easy to become engulfed in the constant craving for material possessions. However, the thought-provoking documentary, Minimalism, sheds light on the futility of accumulating things and emphasizes the potential value of pursuing a simpler, less materialistic lifestyle.
The film follows minimalist duo, Ryan Nicodemus and Joshua Fields Millburn, as they promote their book and philosophy of minimalism, sparking conversations about the benefits of decluttering and detaching oneself from material goods.
Through engaging visuals and compelling testimonies, the documentary presents a powerful narrative, highlighting the fact that an abundance of possessions often does not lead to greater happiness or well-being. In fact, studies have shown that a cluttered living space can induce stress and hinder productivity, further underlining the importance of evaluating the true necessity of the items we accumulate.
Minimalism serves as a timely reminder that our societal focus on material wealth can often overshadow the more meaningful aspects of life, such as relationships, personal growth, and overall well-being.
By adopting a minimalist mindset and challenging the conventional consumer culture, individuals have the opportunity to prioritize their values and embrace a more intentional, fulfilling lifestyle. This insightful documentary invites viewers to reassess their own relationship with material possessions and to consider the possibility of a more balanced and content existence. [15][16]
9. Neurons to Nirvana: The Truth About Psychedelics
Neurons to Nirvana is a groundbreaking documentary that unveils the truth about psychedelics and their potential for medicinal use. The film, directed by Oliver Hockenhull, delves into the resurgence of interest in psychedelic substances such as LSD, ayahuasca, psilocybin, MDMA, and cannabis, focusing on their previously established medicinal potential rather than their recreational use.
The documentary features interviews with leading researchers, psychologists, and pioneers in the field of psychedelic psychotherapy who explore the rich history of these powerful substances and their potential therapeutic benefits.
Many respected researchers are currently conducting clinical trials to treat afflictions such as PTSD, addictions, and psychological stresses experienced by late-stage terminal cancer patients, with initial results showing remarkable outcomes.
In Neurons to Nirvana, the filmmakers attempt to shift the narrative surrounding these drugs from harmful and indulgent to a rational and valuable addition to therapeutic practice. By doing so, they seek to raise awareness about the mental health, creativity, intellectual, and spiritual enhancement possibilities offered by these substances when used responsibly and under professional guidance.
This thought-provoking documentary demystifies the world of psychedelic medicines, shedding light on their transformative power and potential to revolutionize modern well-being practices. [17][18]
10. Home: The Impact of Our Resource Use on the Planet.
As an eye-opening exploration of the impact of human resource use on our planet, “Home” is an insightful documentary that brings awareness to the consequences of our current lifestyle choices and illustrates how interconnected everything in nature truly is.
This 2009 documentary, directed by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, is a visually stunning masterpiece that combines aerial footage from over 50 countries to showcase the awe-inspiring beauty of Earth and the importance of understanding our role in preserving it.
“Home” draws attention to the fact that human beings have exploited Earth’s natural resources at an alarming rate over the past few decades. This exploitation has resulted in significant environmental damages, such as deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and pollution. The film encourages viewers to reconsider their resource consumption habits and adopt more sustainable approaches to living.
While “Home” presents a sobering look at the state of our planet, it also highlights the fact that humans have the power to change the course of our environmental future. By embracing renewable energy, sustainable agriculture practices, and responsible resource management, we can begin to reverse the damage we have caused and ensure that our planet remains a thriving, beautiful home for generations to come.
In summary, “Home” is an impactful documentary that pushes us to reconsider our personal habits and our relationship with Earth’s resources. Its optimistic tone serves as a reminder that it is not too late for change and that collective action can make a significant difference in preserving our planet. [19][20]
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, these documentaries provide an invaluable opportunity to explore the complexities of our world and gain a better understanding of ourselves. From delving into the power of psychedelics to uncovering the truths about human resource use on our planet, each film offers an inspiring perspective that can help us develop a healthier relationship with our environment, minds, and bodies.
In particular, “The Mind Explained” is a particularly remarkable offering that can help anyone gain an in-depth understanding of the inner workings of their mind and the factors that influence mental health. I strongly recommend watching this documentary to anyone seeking greater insight into themselves and how they can better nurture their own well-being.
If you’re looking to gain a better grasp of the human mind and discover how you can cultivate greater mental balance, be sure to watch “The Mind Explained”!
Eager to learn more about this incredible documentary? Check it out on Netflix!