In “A Better Way of Living,” Tom Coleman takes the audience on a transformative journey that challenges conventional views on happiness and fulfillment. Drawing from personal experiences and extensive research, Coleman argues that true contentment lies not in material possessions or societal status, but in the richness of our relationships and the simplicity of mindfulness. He emphasizes the importance of community, intentional actions, and the power of gratitude in shaping a fulfilling life. Through engaging anecdotes and practical insights, Coleman encourages viewers to reassess their priorities and embrace a lifestyle centered around meaningful connections and personal growth. This TEDx talk serves as a guide to redefining success and cultivating a life of purpose, ultimately inspiring individuals to seek out their own better way of living.
Watch the video by TEDxTalks
Author Video Description
NOTE FROM TED: While some may find this helpful as a complementary approach, please do not look to this talk as a substitute for health advice. Contents only represent the speaker’s personal views and understanding of nature exposure, health, and longevity. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedx_content_guidelines.pdf
In this TEDx talk, health scientist and sleep expert Tom Coleman explores why so many people feel stressed, lonely, overwhelmed and disconnected in modern life. Drawing on nearly 20 years in health science and 10 years working in sleep, Tom explains how our wellbeing, circadian rhythm, stress levels and mental health are deeply connected to nature, light, water, community and human connection. He challenges the idea that burnout, anxiety and loneliness are simply caused by workload, arguing that many of us have moved away from the things that regulate and protect us most. From forest bathing and blue spaces to face-to-face relationships and community, Tom shows how the science of health is pointing us back to something ancient. This talk is a powerful reminder that there is a better way of living, one rooted in nature, connection and what makes us human. Thomas Coleman is an international keynote speaker, sleep coach, recovery strategist and qualified health scientist. With over a decade of experience working across sleep, health, wellbeing and high performance, Tom helps individuals and organisations understand how recovery shapes productivity, cognitive function and overall wellbeing. He has worked with businesses, athletes and wellbeing teams, with particular expertise in sleep, shift work and performance. Tom is also the winner of the TEDx Black Mountain Speak-Off 2026 This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
About TEDxTalks
TEDx is an international community that organizes TED-style events anywhere and everywhere — celebrating locally-driven ideas and elevating them to a global stage. TEDx events are produced independently of TED conferences, each event curates speakers on their own, but based on TED’s format and rules.
Video “A Better Way of Living | Tom Coleman | TEDxBlack Mountain” was uploaded on 08/07/2026 to Youtube Channel TEDx Talks