Best 10+ Well-Being Courses Based on Expert Review and Research

Home  >  Course Reviews > Best 10+ Well-Being Courses

Well-being is essential for a fulfilling and balanced life. It influences our mental, physical, and emotional health, shaping how we approach daily challenges and relationships. Achieving well-being often requires developing habits and mindsets that promote positivity and resilience. Well-being trainings are designed to help you cultivate these habits through expert guidance, proven methods, and supportive environments. In this article, we present the best well-being courses, carefully reviewed by expert Dr. Rick Hansen, ensuring that the providers and trainers are reliable and trusted in their field.

Best Well-Being Trainings in 2025

Just One Minute by Dr. Rick Hanson

Course Description

The Just One Minute program offers 57 science-backed, easy-to-do practices that help you hardwire inner peace, self-worth, and happiness into your brain. Each practice is grounded in neuroscience and ancient wisdom, designed to help you handle everyday stress and challenges with more ease. This program allows you to build resilience and well-being with just a few minutes each day, making it perfect for anyone looking for simple yet effective ways to feel better.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Short, manageable practices that can easily fit into your day
• Lifetime access and a 30-day money-back guarantee
• Grounded in positive neuroplasticity, backed by science

Cons

• No CE credits available
• Limited depth for those seeking a more extensive program

About the Instructor

Dr. Rick Hanson is a New York Times bestselling author and leading expert on positive neuroplasticity. His work focuses on helping individuals turn positive experiences into lasting inner strengths. With his extensive background in psychology, Dr. Hanson provides accessible tools and practices that foster well-being and resilience.

Why It’s On The List

We love including “Just One Minute” by Dr. Rick Hanson in our well-being courses list because it’s all about fitting well-being into a busy life. With 57 science-backed practices, each lasting just 1–2 minutes, this course makes it easy to boost happiness, resilience, and self-worth without feeling overwhelmed. We appreciate how Dr. Hanson’s quick, practical techniques help manage daily stress, making it immediately relevant. Lifetime access, reflection exercises, and weekly emails are thoughtful touches, offering continued support as you develop mindfulness and self-compassion.

Course Structure/Content

• 57 brief practices explained through 1–2 minute videos
• Recap and reflection exercises after each practice
• Weekly emails offering additional inspiration and guidance
• Downloadable audio, transcripts, and printable handouts

What You’ll Learn

• How to rewire your brain for more happiness and contentment
• Simple strategies to manage stress, anxiety, and self-doubt
• Mindfulness and compassion techniques to improve self-worth
• Practices to bring more peace and joy into your daily life

Who This Course Is Best For

This course is ideal for anyone seeking quick, actionable practices to improve their mental and emotional well-being. It’s especially helpful for those dealing with everyday stress, anxiety, or low mood, as well as professionals looking for tools to share with clients or colleagues.

The Foundations of Well-Being 2.0 by Dr. Rick Hanson

Course Description

The Foundations of Well-Being 2.0 is a yearlong science-backed program led by Dr. Rick Hanson. This course offers step-by-step guidance to help you become calmer, happier, and more confident. With less than an hour of content per week, you will learn how to build lasting inner strengths like mindfulness, self-compassion, and resilience. It includes live Q&As, guided meditations, expert interviews, and practical tools for real-world application, making it ideal for anyone looking to achieve lasting well-being.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Science-backed content based on positive neuroplasticity
• Lifetime access and flexible schedule
• Access to live Q&A sessions with Dr. Rick Hanson

Cons

• Requires a yearlong commitment
• Additional fee for CE credits

About the Instructor

Dr. Rick Hanson is a renowned psychologist and expert in neuroplasticity. He has authored several best-selling books and is a Senior Fellow at UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center. His work focuses on helping individuals build resilience, mindfulness, and well-being through practical and science-based approaches. Dr. Hanson has a unique ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible and applicable to daily life.

Why It’s On The List

We’re including “The Foundations of Well-Being 2.0” by Dr. Rick Hanson because it offers a thoughtful, yearlong approach to building mental and emotional strength. With just under an hour of weekly content, the course is designed to fit smoothly into daily life. Dr. Hanson’s science-based methods for developing resilience, self-compassion, and mindfulness are practical and can be applied in small, meaningful ways each day. Plus, the monthly live Q&As allow for deeper insights, and lifetime access makes it easy to revisit the material whenever needed.

Course Structure/Content

• Weekly Video Lessons: Practical insights and tools for improving well-being
• Monthly Live Q&As: Engage with Dr. Hanson directly
• Guided Meditations: Techniques to build inner strengths
• Guest Expert Interviews: Insights from leading scholars and teachers
• Self-Assessments and Creative Activities: Tools for self-discovery and growth

What You’ll Learn

• How to reduce stress, anxiety, and worry
• How to build stronger, more fulfilling relationships
• Techniques to increase self-worth and confidence
• Strategies for long-term well-being and resilience

Who This Course Is Best For

This course is ideal for anyone looking to enhance their emotional and mental well-being, including individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, or low self-worth. It’s also beneficial for mental health professionals seeking to earn CE credits or people in psychotherapy, coaching, or mindfulness training.

Well-being Course Based on Real Life Experiences

Course Description

The Well-being Course is a free, online learning experience designed to help people enhance their mental health and life satisfaction. It offers practical tools and strategies that you can apply in your daily life, helping you better understand yourself and make positive changes. The course covers various aspects of well-being, from physical and emotional to social and environmental health. It’s structured to guide you on a journey to a healthier, happier you, with lessons you can take at your own pace.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Free and accessible to everyone.
• Flexible pace, allowing you to complete modules on your own schedule.
• Covers all areas of well-being, providing a holistic approach to mental health.
• Practical strategies that can be implemented immediately.

Cons

• No accredited certification.
• Self-guided, which may not suit individuals who prefer more structured or guided learning.

About the Instructor

The Well-being Course is co-produced by individuals with lived experiences of mental health challenges, making it relatable and practical. The course is grounded in current research, ensuring that the strategies taught are backed by science and real-world application. It’s designed to meet the needs of those dealing with everyday stress, mental health issues, or life transitions.

Why It’s On The List

We included this course because it provides a practical, accessible path to improving mental health without any cost barrier, making it open to everyone. Each module takes around 30 minutes and can be completed at your own pace, which makes it easy to fit into a busy day. We liked how it covers various aspects of well-being—like physical, emotional, social, and environmental health—offering a well-rounded view of mental wellness. The tools and strategies are research-based and immediately useful, encouraging self-discovery and personal growth.

Course Structure/Content

• Module 1: Welcome to The Well-being Course
• Module 2: Physical Well-being
• Module 3: Social Well-being
• Module 4: Cognitive Well-being
• Module 5: Emotional Well-being
• Module 6: Meaning and Purpose
• Module 7: Environmental Well-being
• Module 8: The Well-being Journey Continues

What You’ll Learn

In this course, you will learn how to:

• Improve your physical and mental well-being.
• Strengthen your social connections and relationships.
• Build emotional resilience and manage stress.
• Discover your sense of meaning and purpose.
• Develop strategies to improve cognitive and environmental well-being.

Who This Course Is Best For

This course is ideal for individuals dealing with life struggles such as stress, burnout, anxiety, or low mood. It is also beneficial for anyone seeking to improve their mental health, self-awareness, and overall well-being. Whether you are facing mental health challenges or simply looking to lead a more fulfilling life, this course offers valuable insights and tools.

The Science of Well-Being by Laurie Santos

Course Description

The Science of Well-Being is a 10-week course designed to help you increase your happiness and develop better habits. The course begins with an introduction and dives into topics like misconceptions about happiness, why our expectations often mislead us, and how to overcome cognitive biases. You will also explore the key factors that truly contribute to happiness and learn practical strategies that you can apply in your daily life. The final modules focus on putting these strategies into practice through the “rewirement” challenge, where you’ll actively work to change your mindset and habits. The course wraps up with the submission of a final assignment.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Free to enroll with the option of a paid Coursera certificate.
• Taught by a highly respected Yale professor.
• Engages learners with interactive challenges and practical exercises.

Cons

• Requires self-discipline to complete all 10 modules.
• No formal accreditation beyond the Coursera certificate.

About the Instructor

Laurie Santos is a renowned Professor of Psychology at Yale University and the Head of Silliman Residential College. She is also the host of the popular podcast The Happiness Lab. With a strong background in psychology and well-being, Professor Santos is an expert in the science of happiness and how people can foster better mental health through positive psychology. Her work has helped millions of people rethink their approach to personal happiness.

Why It’s On The List

We included “The Science of Well-Being” by Laurie Santos because it offers a thoughtful, research-based approach to understanding happiness. The course’s free enrollment removes barriers, making it accessible for anyone interested in well-being. Led by Yale professor Laurie Santos, the ten modules cover valuable topics like rethinking happiness myths and building lasting habits. We liked the interactive elements, such as practical exercises and the “rewirement” challenge, which encourage real-life application and personal growth. For those wanting formal recognition, there’s also an option for a Coursera certificate.

Course Structure/Content

1. Introduction: Overview of the course and its objectives.
2. Misconceptions About Happiness: Discover common myths about happiness and how they impact our behavior.
3. Why Our Expectations Are So Bad: Learn why we often set unrealistic expectations that hinder our happiness.
4. How Can We Overcome Our Biases?: Explore strategies to shift your mindset and overcome harmful cognitive biases.
5. Stuff That Really Makes Us Happy: Identify the key factors that truly contribute to long-lasting happiness.
6. Putting Strategies into Practice: Start implementing the happiness strategies in your daily routine.
7. Start Your Final Rewirement Challenge: Begin a challenge that focuses on rewiring your habits and mindset.
8. Continue Your Rewirement Challenge (Part 1): Keep practicing the strategies learned through continuous application.
9. Continue Your Rewirement Challenge (Part 2): Further reinforce the rewirement strategies.
10. Submit Your Final Assignment: Reflect on your progress and submit your final challenge assignment.

What You’ll Learn

• How to challenge and overcome misconceptions about happiness.
• Practical ways to overcome biases and cognitive distortions.
• The science of happiness and strategies to increase well-being.
• How to apply these strategies in your daily life to build lasting habits.

Who This Course Is Best For

This course is ideal for anyone looking to increase their personal well-being and happiness. It is particularly suited for those who want to develop productive habits, overcome negative thought patterns, and gain a deeper understanding of the science behind happiness. Whether you’re looking to improve your mental health, navigate life transitions, or simply enhance your day-to-day joy, this course offers practical, research-backed insights for everyone.

Psychology of Well-being by Julia Rucklidge

Course Description

In this course, you’ll explore the science of psychological well-being and learn strategies to enhance your health, mindset, and overall happiness. Led by Professor Julia Rucklidge, you’ll uncover practical solutions based on the latest research in psychology, nutrition, and lifestyle changes. This course is designed to help you apply these insights to your life and the people around you, whether you’re a professional, parent, or someone looking to improve personal well-being. Through five structured modules, you will gain tools to overcome negative thinking, boost resilience, and nurture a more positive outlook.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Backed by science and taught by a renowned expert
• Offers practical, real-world strategies
• Suitable for professionals and personal use
• Flexible learning schedule

Cons

• Available only to New Zealand or Australia residents
• Requires a significant time commitment (6 hours/week)

About the Instructor

Professor Julia Rucklidge is a clinical psychologist and Director of the Mental Health and Nutrition Research Lab at the University of Canterbury. With over 20 years of experience, she has published numerous studies on the connection between nutrition and mental health. Her TEDx talk on nutrition and mental health has gained over five million views. Julia’s work focuses on providing alternative treatments to psychiatric symptoms, and she is passionate about helping people improve their well-being through research-backed methods.

Why It’s On The List

We loved this course because it offers a well-structured, research-based approach to improving mental health and resilience. We appreciated that the course is led by Professor Rucklidge, a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience and a focus on the connection between nutrition and mental health, which brings depth to each topic. We liked the practical strategies provided—covering essential tools for managing stress, building resilience, and overcoming negative thinking. The flexible schedule and micro-credential recognition also make it ideal for both personal growth and professional development.

Course Structure/Content

• Module 1: Introduction to well-being and psychology
• Module 2: What makes us happy?
• Module 3: Psychological traps to well-being
• Module 4: Faulty thinking and cognitive interventions
• Module 5: Values, strengths, and behavior for lasting well-being

What You’ll Learn

• Understanding psychological factors influencing well-being
• Recognizing and overcoming negative thinking patterns
• Developing strategies for improved mental health
• Boosting resilience through cognitive interventions
• Identifying personal strengths and values for long-term well-being

Who This Course Is Best For

This course is ideal for health professionals, HR managers, teachers, and individuals looking to boost their personal well-being. It is especially valuable for those experiencing burnout, anxiety, or stress, and for professionals seeking research-based strategies to enhance resilience and mental health. The course provides essential tools for both personal development and supporting others.

Wisdom for Well-Being by 21 Top Buddhist teachers

Course Description

This course offers a deep exploration into enhancing mental and emotional health by blending ancient wisdom with modern practices. Through teachings on mindfulness, compassion, and self-awareness, you’ll learn practical strategies to navigate life’s challenges with more clarity and ease. With 21 expert teachers from various disciplines, this course is designed to help you build resilience, manage stress, and foster emotional well-being. Perfect for anyone wanting to combine spiritual and psychological insights for a more balanced life.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lifetime access to 40 video sessions
• Taught by top spiritual and mental health leaders
• Practical mindfulness and compassion techniques

Cons

• No official accreditation
• Requires dedication to follow through with numerous sessions

About the Instructor

This course features teachings from 21 respected experts in Buddhism, mental health, and mindfulness, including Mingyur Rinpoche, Sharon Salzberg, Rick Hanson, and Tara Brach. These leaders have decades of experience in guiding people toward well-being through mindfulness and compassion practices. Their collective wisdom ensures that you’re learning from some of the best minds in both spiritual and psychological fields.

Why It’s On The List

We included “Wisdom for Well-Being” as it combines ancient wisdom with practical mental health strategies, offering a unique way to approach well-being. We appreciated the lifetime access to 40 sessions, taught by a remarkable lineup of 21 respected teachers, including figures like Sharon Salzberg, Mingyur Rinpoche, and Tara Brach. This course stood out for its focus on actionable techniques for managing stress, building emotional resilience, and fostering compassion. The five-part structure makes it easy to follow, and the emphasis on self-discovery and kindness offers valuable insights for personal and professional growth.

Course Structure/Content

• Part 1: Working with Difficult Emotions and Physical Pain
• Part 2: Changing the Patterns that Are Holding You Back
• Part 3: Getting to Know Your True Self
• Part 4: Understanding the Inner Workings of Well-Being
• Part 5: Uncovering Your Deep Capacity for Compassion

What You’ll Learn

• Techniques to manage stress and anxiety
• Mindfulness and meditation practices for everyday life
• Emotional resilience and mental clarity
• Compassion and kindness toward yourself and others
• Strategies to change unhelpful thought patterns

Who This Course Is Best For

This course is ideal for individuals seeking to improve their mental and emotional well-being through a mix of spiritual wisdom and psychological tools. It’s perfect for anyone looking to develop mindfulness, compassion, and resilience, whether for personal growth or professional application.

Transformative Science and Mindfulness Practices with Jack Kornfield & Dr. Dan Siegel

Course Description

This course combines the teachings of mindfulness and interpersonal neurobiology to cultivate wisdom and emotional resilience. Led by renowned teachers Jack Kornfield and Dr. Dan Siegel, you’ll explore Buddhist psychology and scientific principles to deepen your understanding of the mind, relationships, and well-being. You’ll learn transformative practices that help integrate the mind, strengthen relationships, and foster inner peace, using both contemplative and scientific approaches.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Taught by two renowned experts in mindfulness and neurobiology
• Includes live Q&A sessions for direct engagement with the instructors
• Offers CE credits for healthcare professionals

Cons

• Payment is required on a weekly basis, which may not suit everyone
• No official one-on-one coaching is included

About the Instructor

Jack Kornfield, a leading figure in bringing mindfulness and Buddhist practices to the West, has taught meditation globally since the 1970s. He trained as a Buddhist monk and holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. Dr. Dan Siegel, an award-winning educator and expert in interpersonal neurobiology, is a clinical professor at UCLA. Together, they bring decades of teaching experience, blending ancient wisdom with cutting-edge science.

Why It’s On The List

We liked this course because it brings together the expertise of mindfulness leader Jack Kornfield and psychologist Dr. Dan Siegel, combining science and mindfulness in a meaningful way. We liked how the course blends Buddhist psychology with scientific insight. The structure, with five clear parts and live Q&A sessions, provides a logical and engaging learning experience, allowing for personal guidance along the way. The focus on compassion, emotional resilience, and enhancing relationships makes it ideal for personal growth, and the CE credits add value for professionals in mental health fields.

Course Structure/Content

• Part 1: Working with Difficult Emotions and Physical Pain
• Part 2: Changing the Patterns that Are Holding You Back
• Part 3: Getting to Know Your True Self
• Part 4: Understanding the Inner Workings of Well-Being
• Part 5: Uncovering Your Deep Capacity for Compassion

What You’ll Learn

• How to manage difficult emotions and physical pain with mindfulness
• Techniques to break unhelpful patterns and cultivate positive habits
• Practices for enhancing self-awareness and emotional intelligence
• Strategies to develop compassion and deepen interpersonal relationships
• Insights from both scientific and spiritual perspectives

Who This Course Is Best For

This course is ideal for individuals seeking a holistic approach to mental and emotional well-being. It’s perfect for healthcare professionals, therapists, or anyone interested in combining mindfulness with scientific research to improve their understanding of the mind, relationships, and overall well-being.

Happiness, Contentment & Inner Freedom by Tara Brach

Course Description

This self-paced course, led by mindfulness expert Tara Brach, explores the common obstacles to contentment and the mindfulness practices that can help cultivate a profound sense of well-being. Through guided sessions, you will learn how to move past habits of dissatisfaction, unlock your intrinsic wholeness, and experience greater joy and peace in daily life. This course combines mindfulness, compassion practices, and neuroplasticity science to guide you toward more contentment and inner freedom.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Self-paced with guided meditations and journaling prompts
• Focuses on practical mindfulness and compassion practices
• Affordable and includes bonus materials for further study

Cons

• No accreditation offered
• Short course duration, may require personal discipline for long-term impact

About the Instructor

Tara Brach is a well-known mindfulness teacher, psychologist, and author. She combines Eastern spiritual traditions with Western psychology, helping people transform their inner lives through mindfulness and compassion. Tara is recognized for her compassionate approach to mental and emotional well-being and has helped millions through her teachings, books, and guided meditations.

Why It’s On The List

We appreciated Tara’s experience as a mindfulness teacher and psychologist, which brings a depth of understanding to each lesson. With 2 hours of content divided into 7 self-paced parts, it’s easy for participants to fit the course into their own schedule and revisit sections as needed. We liked how the course combines mindfulness practices, guided meditations, and journaling prompts with insights into neuroplasticity, helping participants explore happiness from both scientific and experiential perspectives.

Course Structure/Content

• Part 1: The Blessings of Enough
• Part 2: The Trance of Discontent
• Part 3: RAIN: Recognize, Allow, Investigate, Nurture
• Part 4: The Roots of Dissatisfaction
• Part 5: Mindfulness and Compassion
• Part 6: The Pathway of Loving Connection
• Part 7: Closing Reflection and Further Resources

What You’ll Learn

• How to identify and overcome blocks to inner contentment
• Mindfulness techniques to help ease the grip of dissatisfaction
• The science behind positive neuroplasticity and its role in happiness
• Practical practices for daily joy and well-being

Who This Course Is Best For

This course is ideal for anyone seeking personal growth, mindfulness practices, and emotional well-being. It’s especially beneficial for individuals who want to let go of discontent, manage stress, and cultivate joy and compassion in their everyday lives.

The Science of Happiness by Emiliana Simon-Thomas and Dacher Keltner

Course Description

The Science of Happiness explores the roots of a happy and meaningful life through research-based strategies. Led by expert instructors from the Greater Good Science Center, this course teaches how strong social connections and contributing to something larger than oneself are key to happiness. It covers insights from positive psychology and provides practical exercises to boost happiness, reduce stress, and enhance life satisfaction.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Practical, research-based happiness strategies
• Engaging videos, expert guest lectures, and readings
• Option to receive a certificate of completion for the Verified Track

Cons

• Verified Track costs $169
• Requires self-motivation for completing exercises and readings

About the Instructors

Emiliana Simon-Thomas, Ph.D., is the Science Director at the Greater Good Science Center, and Dacher Keltner, Ph.D., is a psychology professor at UC Berkeley. Both are renowned for their research in positive psychology, making them ideal leaders for this course on happiness. Their collective work has inspired millions, and they are dedicated to helping students apply scientific insights to their daily lives.

Why It’s On The List

We added “The Science of Happiness” because it’s a friendly, down-to-earth way to explore what really makes us happy. Led by Emiliana Simon-Thomas and Dacher Keltner, both respected experts, the course combines solid research with practical tips you can use every day. Plus, there are “happiness practices” each week that help you try out what you’ve learned in real life, and guest speakers add even more interesting insights.

Course Structure/Content

• Week 1-8: Topics include misconceptions about happiness, the importance of social ties, and the science of positive emotions
• Midterm and final exams
• Guest lectures by Sonja Lyubomirsky, Barbara Fredrickson, and Jon Kabat-Zinn
• Weekly “happiness practices” to try on your own

What You’ll Learn

• Practical methods for increasing happiness and life satisfaction
• How strong relationships and meaningful contributions can improve well-being
• Scientific research on positive emotions and resilience
• How to apply “happiness practices” to everyday life

Who This Course Is Best For

This course is perfect for anyone interested in improving their happiness and reducing stress. Whether you’re looking to enhance personal well-being, support others, or apply these insights in your professional life, this course provides research-based tools to make a lasting impact.

How To Create More Happiness by Charlie Knoles

Course Description

In this self-paced course, Charlie Knoles guides you through simple yet impactful techniques to cultivate inner happiness and discover a deeper sense of purpose. You’ll explore the key ingredients for a meaningful life, dive into guided meditations to help you tap into your quietest state, and learn practical methods to enhance your emotional and mental well-being.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Affordable and lifetime access
• Includes guided meditations and insightful lessons
• Flexible learning on any device

Cons

• No certification
• Limited interaction with the instructor

About the Instructor

Charlie Knoles, a Vedic Meditation teacher, has been teaching meditation from a young age, following in the footsteps of his father. With decades of experience, he has helped thousands of individuals unlock their potential through meditation, fostering both personal and professional growth.

Why It’s On The List

We appreciated the guided meditations, which help you relax, find peace, and get in touch with your inner self. The two-module structure keeps things clear and focused on key areas like happiness, meaning, and meditation. Charlie Knoles brings years of experience as a Vedic teacher, offering practical techniques to help you unlock your potential and feel more connected to your purpose. At just $29.99, the course is budget-friendly and provides lifetime access, so you can go back to the lessons and meditations whenever you like.

Course Structure/Content

• Module 1: Happiness & Meaning (6 lessons)
• Module 2: Meditation (1 lesson)
• Guided meditation sessions and practical tools for personal fulfillment

What You’ll Learn

• How to find more meaning and happiness in your life
• Practical steps to overcome fear and unlock your full potential
• How meditation can help you foster inner peace and clarity

Who This Course Is Best For

This course is ideal for individuals seeking more happiness and purpose, anyone feeling stuck or unsure about their life direction, and those who want to learn meditation techniques to achieve inner peace. It’s also great for those who feel something is missing and want to foster a deeper connection with themselves.

The Dalai Lama’s Guide to Happiness

Course Description

The Dalai Lama’s Guide to Happiness is a transformative 10-day course blending ancient wisdom with modern science to teach you how to cultivate happiness. Through insightful conversations with the Dalai Lama, neuroscientist Richie Davidson, and meditation expert Roshi Joan Halifax, you’ll explore topics like taming the mind, overcoming self-criticism, and fostering empathy. This course provides practical, scientifically backed tools to help you develop happiness as a skill you can apply in everyday life.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Free access to wisdom from world-renowned experts
• Combines science and ancient teachings for practical application
• Easy-to-follow sessions with meditation practices

Cons

• Requires daily commitment for 10 days
• No certification or accreditation

About the Instructors

The Dalai Lama is a globally respected spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism. Dan Harris, the author of 10% Happier, is a meditation advocate and podcast host. Richie Davidson is a pioneering neuroscientist known for his research on human well-being. Roshi Joan Halifax is a meditation teacher who blends ancient wisdom with modern insights, providing practical tools for personal growth.

Why It’s On The List

We picked The Dalai Lama’s Guide to Happiness because it’s a unique, free course offering insights from the Dalai Lama and neuroscientist Richie Davidson on cultivating true happiness. ith each day featuring simple, practical exercises and meditations to help build happiness as a daily habit. We liked how it combines the wisdom of ancient teachings with modern science. The video format is easy to follow, and the meditations bring a sense of calm and inner peace.

Course Structure/Content

• 10 sessions focusing on different aspects of happiness and well-being:
• Happiness as a skill
• Taming the mind
• Overcoming self-criticism
• Fostering empathy and relationships
• Embracing altruism and compassion
• Each session includes video lessons, discussions, and guided meditations

What You’ll Learn

• How to train happiness as a skill
• Techniques for calming the mind and reducing negative thoughts
• Methods to overcome self-criticism and increase compassion
• Insights into fostering deeper relationships and embracing empathy

Who This Course Is Best For

This course is ideal for anyone looking to develop happiness through a blend of spiritual wisdom and scientific research. Whether you’re new to meditation or experienced, this course provides valuable tools for personal growth and emotional well-being.

The Bridge to Happiness by Caverly Morgan

Course Description

The Bridge to Happiness with Caverly Morgan is a transformative on-demand course that guides you through the process of living from your true nature, which is wholeness, awareness, and unconditional love. Through contemplative practice and experiential exercises, this course helps you move beyond striving and searching for happiness and towards aligning your life with your deepest understanding. Caverly, a former monk and spiritual teacher, offers practical teachings and guided meditations to support you in discovering your inner peace and well-being.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Clear, practical teachings by an experienced spiritual guide
• Guided meditations and experiential exercises
• Includes recorded Q&A sessions

Cons

• Requires self-discipline to follow along with the on-demand format
• No formal accreditation

About the Instructor

Caverly Morgan is a spiritual teacher and the founder of Peace in Schools. With over 20 years of practice, including eight years of silent Zen monastic training, she has been teaching contemplative practices since 2001. Caverly blends traditional Zen wisdom with a modern nondual approach, helping individuals deepen their understanding of mindfulness, compassion, and self-awareness.

Why It’s On The List

With over 20 years of experience as a Zen mindfulness teacher, Caverly guides participants in discovering wholeness, awareness, and compassion as pathways to true happiness. We appreciated the course’s practical design, featuring 10 hours of video lessons, guided meditations, and experiential exercises, making these teachings easy to integrate into daily life. The self-paced format and recorded Q&A sessions allow learners to engage comfortably and revisit topics whenever needed.

Course Structure/Content

• Module 1: Recognizing the Conditioned Mind
• Module 2: Seeing How We Survived Our Lives
• Module 3: Accessing Compassion
• Module 4: Knowing Yourself as Awareness

What You’ll Learn

• How to recognize and overcome conditioned thinking
• Tools for cultivating self-compassion and inner peace
• Practices to live in alignment with your true nature
• How to integrate awareness into everyday life

Who This Course Is Best For

This course is ideal for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of self-awareness, mindfulness, and compassion. It is especially beneficial for those who have explored spiritual teachings and are ready to integrate these principles into daily life. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned practitioner, The Bridge to Happiness offers transformative insights for personal growth and well-being.

• Science-Based Approach: We chose courses grounded in scientific research, especially those incorporating psychology and neuroscience, to ensure that the strategies for well-being are proven and effective.
• Trusted Sources: The courses we recommend come from trusted instructors and platforms, giving you confidence that you’re getting high-quality, reliable content.
• Manual Research: We carefully handpicked courses after thorough research into trainers’ expertise in well-being. Every course on our list was reviewed to ensure it meets high standards of excellence.
• Content Evaluation: We evaluated each course based on its objectives, quality, and how well it meets the needs of learners, ensuring that it provides practical tools and insights to improve well-being.
• Instructor/Platform Expertise: We prioritized courses taught by renowned experts or hosted on reputable platforms with solid backgrounds in mental health, psychology, or personal development.
• Pricing Comparison: We compared the price of each course to its content depth and the additional resources offered, ensuring you get the best value for your investment.
• Accreditation: Some courses provide formal accreditation while others focus on personal growth. We checked this so you’ll know which courses offer professional certification and which ones are centered on self-improvement, helping you make the best choice for your well-being journey.

Well-being impacts everything from our mental and emotional health to our relationships and ability to handle life’s challenges. Prioritizing well-being allows us to manage stress, improve resilience, and find greater happiness and peace.

The courses we’ve selected are designed to help you achieve this balance by offering practical tools and insights grounded in both science and wisdom. We’re confident in recommending these courses because we’ve carefully evaluated them based on proven methodologies, expert reviews, and their ability to deliver real, lasting results. By enrolling in these courses, you’re taking an important step towards a happier, healthier, and more empowered life.

Stephanie Veillon is a creative director and instructional designer with over 15 years of experience supporting clients in the mindfulness, personal growth, well-being, learning, and psychology fields. She leverages technology, design, marketing, and best online practices to tell client stories and enhance student experience.