Cover We've put together a list of the best uplifting documentaries to stream on Netflix (Photo: Still from 'Queer Eye', courtesy of Netflix)

These Netflix documentaries are not only entertaining but also inspirational that feature wonderful messages to lift your spirits and add positivity to your life

Curling up on a couch for a Netflix marathon might not sound like a productive activity, but hear us out—Netflix is a gold mine of uplifting and informative documentaries that will feed your mind and boost your mood.

From intriguing travel series to heartwarming reality shows, sit back and scroll through to find our list of all the must-watch documentaries that will not only help you kick-start your 2022 wellness goals, but also inspire you to live your best life. 

Read more: 8 Feel-Good Series to Binge on Netflix

1. Tidying Up With Marie Kondo (2019)

Marie Kondo's best-selling book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying : The Japanese Art, comes to life in this uplifting Netflix original series as she visits people's homes to help them declutter and rediscover what "sparks joy" in their lives, while offering clever tips to viewers. Through acts of gratitude and mindfulness, Marie Kondo shows that organisation isn't just about tidying up our space, it's about creating new habits that encourage inner peace and, most importantly, joy.

Watch it here

2. Midnight Asia: Eat, Dance, Dream (2022)

Part food documentary, part travel show, Midnight Asia: Eat, Dance, Dream offers viewers the best of both worlds. The new series will be taking us on a journey through Asia’s most iconic cities, and the food culture, art and nightlife scenes that made them top holiday destinations for travellers across the world.

Through interviewing with people from all walks of life and different industries, the show is able to tell not only the unique cultures of their countries but also their own inspiring stories.

Watch it here (Available on January 20)

Read more: The Best Travel Shows To Binge-Watch On Netflix

3. Queer Eye

Through the eyes of the Fab Five, we see their exquisite taste—in interior design, fashion, food and wine and most important of all, their perception of self-love—come together as they help men completely make over their lives. While appreciating the gang’s epic transformations, it’s as entertaining as it is heart-warming to watch.

Watch it here

4. Becoming (2020)

Partly based on Michelle Obama’s best-selling memoir of the same name, Becoming is an intimate documentary that looks at the former First Lady of the United States’ important life moments, hopes and connections with others. More than giving the viewers a glimpse into an inspirational woman’s life and addressing issues around race and class, the show is also encouraging us to find our own passion and follow it despite hardships.

Watch it here  

5. Blackpink: Light Up The Sky (2020)

If you love K-pop and are looking for a documentary that takes storytelling to the next level, this is it. The film offers viewers a rare glimpse into the lives of mega-girl group Blackpink, detailing the members’ individual stories and their path to success.  

Watch it here

Read more: Happy Birthday to Blackpink’s Jisoo: 10 of Our Favourite Looks

6. Resurface (2017)

It’s not difficult to see why this is regarded as one of the most heartfelt Netflix originals—the program follows a group of military veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), as they heal and rediscover their emotional and physical strength through surf therapy.

Watch it here

7. The Minimalists: Less Is Now (2020)

There’s no better time to take a moment to reflect and learn to live a more fulfilling, meaningful life during these uncertain times, and the new Netflix show The Minimalists: Less Is Now serves as a perfect guide. Featuring the popular simple-living duo, Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, they lead viewers on an enlightening ride exploring the benefits of living a minimalist lifestyle while explaining why clearing all that clutter can help you to make more room for your passion. 

Watch it here

8. Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things (2015)

If you enjoyed watching Joshua and Ryan's new show, make sure you give their earlier production a watch. This film will fuel your life with positive energy and change the way you see the world as people from all walks of life and all industries—from journalists to scientists and even a Wall Street broker—make their case for why less truly is more. Watch it to discover why sometimes it's in the littlest things are where we find true happiness.

Watch it here

9. The Playbook: A Coach’s Rules for Life (2020)

As you can probably tell from its title, this docuseries follows some of the world’s greatest coaches as they share their rules to live by to achieve success in sports and in life. Featuring the most influential people of the sports industry including NBA coach Doc Rivers, soccer manager José Mourinho and tennis coach Patrick Mouratoglou who works with Serena Williams, the show not only highlights their intriguing stories but is also jam-packed with important life lessons.  

Watch it here

10. Daughters Of Destiny (2017)

Filmed over 7 years, Daughters of Destiny follows a group of girls in rural India, who are part of the country's most impoverished families. The girls attend the Shanti Bhavan school, which provides free education to poverty-stricken children. Expect tons of heartfelt and inspiring moments while following their journey for a brighter future.

Watch it here

Read more: The Best Family-Friendly Movies to Watch on Netflix

11. Cooked (2016)

Acclaimed journalist and food expert Michael Pollan delves into the history of food and culture, giving us a new positive outlook on food. In Cooked, he reminds viewers that the essence of cooking is not only an everyday practice, but more a source of joy and a way to nourish and care for the people you love.

Watch it here

Don't miss: The Best New Hong Kong Restaurant Openings to Look Forward to in 2022

12. Expedition Happiness (2017)

Tatler Asia
Above Photo: IMDb

A young German filmmaker sets out on a road trip across North America in a refurbished school bus with his musician girlfriend and their beloved dog in search of a state of pure bliss. What’s great about the show is that the couple used an intimate, straightforward approach to capture their journey from Alaska to the southern tip of Mexico on camera, which makes it a truly compelling narrative to watch. This show is also a wonderful reminder to live in the moment and expend your comfort zone to pursue meaningful adventures.  

Watch it here

13. Dogs (2018)

Nothing really beats these warm and fuzzy bundles of unconditional love. This feel-good piece features six intimate stories of humans and their dogs, which will surely melt your heart and teach a lesson or two about gratitude and self-compassion.

Watch it here

14. Abstract: The Art of Design (2019)

This is one for art enthusiasts who have always wanted to step inside the minds of some of the world's most innovative designers. From architects to photographers and interior designers, Abstract delves deep into exploring eight people’s unique creative processes. 

Watch it here


This article was originally published on January 15, 2019 and was updated on January 4, 2022.

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