1. Happy

One of the first films to awaken the human spirit is Happy. We all want to know how to be happy and what makes us happy, right? Happiness has been a popular subject with sages and philosophers for hundreds of years and this film takes us on a journey from the swamps of Louisiana to the slums of Kolkata in search of what really makes people happy. It is sure to make you smile and certainly made me happy!

2. Wake up

This is one of the most powerful films I have seen in a long time and it made me weep at the end. It wasn't sad, it was just incredibly moving. The film revolves around Jonas Elrod, a man who was leading an ordinary life until one day he woke to a completely new reality, one which involves seeing angels and demons. This documentary follows Jonas, an average guy who grapples with his ability to access other dimensions.

3. DMT: the Spirit Molecule

I didn't know what DMT was until I watched this documentary. DMT, or dimethyltryptamine, is a molecule that can be found in nearly every living organism. It is considered the most powerful psychedelic (a psychedelic is a drug that expands the consciousness and causes hallucinations) on Earth. This film explores the molecule and its powers to awaken and expand the consciousness.

4. Baraka

This isn't normally the type of film I would watch as it doesn't feature any dialogue. It is, however, a collection of beautiful scenes of life and religion. It is actually spiritually uplifting as you watch the ways in which nature and humanity have had an impact on the planet. If you want to watch something a bit different then this film is for you.

5. Samsara

The word samsara refers to the cycle of death and rebirth. It's a fitting name for this powerful film, a film that really makes you think about mankind's impact on the environment. It was filmed over nearly five years in twenty-five countries on five continents and transports viewers from the natural wonders of the world to disaster zones.

6. Chasing Buddha

You may have seen Ven. Robina Courtin on YouTube, giving her fabulous and enlightening talks about Buddhist philosophy. She certainly is a 'no holds barred' Buddhist nun who isn't afraid to tell it like it is. This film was made by Robina's nephew Amiel, who spent three months following his aunt as she travelled around the US teaching and visiting inmates in prison, some of whom were on death row. It is a great film and will certainly awaken the human spirit.

7. The Dhamma Brothers

Meditation has been used by different cultures for thousands of years and there is no doubt that it can have positive and profound effects on people's minds. This film follows two proponents of meditation who take their practices to a maximum security prison in Alabama. It is both a moving and uplifting film and one I would recommend for anyone who is interested in meditation.

These are my favorite films to awaken the human spirit. Have you seen any of the films above? Perhaps you have some recommendations. I would love to hear!