Ancient Wisdom on Happiness: Insights from June Cohen’s New Book

1 November 2026 3 min read هدهد تك | Hudhud Tech

June Cohen, a pioneer in media and technology, presents five key insights from her new book, The Great Remembering: Powerful Ancient Practices―And the New Science Bringing Them Back. Cohen is known for co-creating TED Talks, Masters of Scale, and Meditative Story, and has received over 100 industry awards.

What’s the Big Idea?

Ancient cultures worldwide developed wisdom systems that included embodied practices passed down through generations. These practices helped individuals navigate hardship, build connections, and find happiness. Modern science is now validating these ancient methods.

1. An Epic Physical Challenge Can Help You Through an Epic Emotional One

Cohen emphasizes the significance of epic physical challenges, which were prevalent in ancient cultures. These challenges often accompanied emotional transitions, such as coming-of-age rituals or pilgrimages. Today, people still engage in physical activities like marathons or mountain climbing during emotional hardships.

Research supports this instinct through the concept of “hormetic stress,” which refers to beneficial physical stressors that trigger cellular renewal processes, including autophagy. This renewal can enhance neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to form new connections, potentially aiding individuals in overcoming emotional challenges.

2. There’s a Right Way (and a Wrong Way) to Take on Epic Physical Challenges

Cohen outlines essential elements for successfully undertaking epic physical challenges:

Structure: Challenges should have safety measures in place to prevent harm.
Meaning: Participants should understand the personal significance of the challenge.
A coach: Guidance from an experienced mentor is crucial.
A witnessing community: Support from others enhances the experience.
Nature: Spending time in green spaces has proven health benefits.
Recovery: Growth occurs during recovery, not just during the challenge.
The squad: Training and completing challenges with others fosters camaraderie.

These elements transform physical challenges into holistic experiences that promote personal growth.

3. Your Body is a Powerful Pathway to Your Mind and Your Mood

Ancient festivals often involved intense physical activities, highlighting the connection between the body and spiritual transformation. Cohen points to endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers, as a key factor in enhancing happiness. Activities like exercise, exposure to extreme temperatures, and social synchrony can all trigger endorphin release.

Modern Western culture often separates the mind and body, but Cohen notes that ancient wisdom recognized their interconnectedness. Scientific research is beginning to affirm this understanding.

4. Don’t Go It Alone

Cohen shares a story about ultramarathoner Lisa Hallett, who found renewed energy during a grueling race when her daughter appeared with snacks. This illustrates the importance of social support during challenging endeavors.

Research shows that people produce more endorphins when they engage in activities together, such as rowing or dancing. This communal aspect of physical challenges can enhance the overall experience and contribute to happiness.

5. Modern Science is Validating What You Already Know in Your Bones

Cohen’s exploration revealed a partnership between ancient wisdom and modern science. Researchers have confirmed the health benefits of practices like sauna use, intermittent fasting, and forest bathing, which align with traditional practices from various cultures.

Many individuals intuitively understand what brings them joy, and modern science is providing the evidence to support these age-old practices. This dual perspective encourages people to embrace what they already know about happiness.

For more insights, listeners can access the audio version of Cohen’s book through the Next Big Idea app.