Building the world’s first mindfulness city

Bhutan is on the verge of an extraordinary endeavor: building the world’s first mindfulness city—Gelephu. What is now a small town of 10,000 people is set to grow into a thriving city of a million residents. This is a bold vision, especially for a nation with a population of just 700,000.

And “bold”—or “believe”—was the central theme that wove through the entire conference. Whether we’re talking about Gelephu Mindfulness City or global discussions like those happening at the upcoming IDG (Inner Development Goals) Summit, which centers around goals beyond material enrichment, the signs are clear: as individuals, we are seeking deeper meaning in our lives.

The aim of the Gelephu Mindfulness City project is to create a space where mindfulness is not only practiced but integrated into everyday life. It’s a city designed to promote well-being, both for its residents and visitors. Gelephu will not just be a hub for mindfulness, but a beacon of peace and purpose for people from all over the world, attracting individuals interested in wellness and mindful living.

As a purpose-centric strategy consultancy, Lynxeye participated in the forum to offer perspective on how mindfulness could be combined with a compelling proposition to engage both local and international audiences. We explored how mindfulness could be positioned in a way that stays true to Bhutan’s cultural essence while also appealing to a global audience. This challenge required us to balance the spiritual with the strategic—an effort that made this project so unique and exciting.

The discussions over those four days were intense and inspiring. Together, we asked, “How can we design a city where mindfulness is not just a concept but a way of life, attracting people for a transformative, living experience?”

After the forum, I continued my personal journey by visiting Dodedrak Monastery, high in the mountains of Bhutan. For four days, I immersed myself in the life of the monks, meditating and praying, far from the busy world. The peaceful rhythm of monastic life allowed me to reflect on the insights from the forum and reconnect with the core principles of mindfulness.

This experience of deep reflection, surrounded by simplicity, reinforced my belief that mindfulness isn’t just about escape. It’s about integrating peace and purpose into our everyday lives—whether in the bustling city of Gelephu or in a quiet monastery.

As I left Bhutan, I carried with me not just memories but a renewed understanding of the importance of seeking deeper meaning—whether spiritual or otherwise—to remain awake and engaged in the progress of our lives. It’s clear that, as individuals and as a collective humanity, we crave something more than the passive routines of modern life.

We need a connection to purpose that sustains us, one that keeps us moving forward with intention. Whether through initiatives like the Gelephu Mindfulness City or global discussions around the Inner Development Goals, it is this deeper connection that will help us evolve, not just as individuals, but as a society.