​​H.D. De Silva conceived the Five Fortunes concept after an extensive personal inquiry into the wellbeing of the human condition. The concept of Five fortunes is about the essential requirements for the wellbeing of the human condition. According to this concept, wellbeing or bliss is experienced whenever a fundamental human need is satisfied by a vital achievement (vital gem).

The fundamental human needs are: the need for Self-preservation, the need for Connection, the need for Personal growth, the need for Resolution and the need for Creative self-expression.

Whenever these primary needs are satisfied by the vital gems of sufficiency, appreciation, sovereignty, clarity and elegance respectively; the result is the corresponding bliss of health, happiness, freedom, tranquility and elation.

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