Why everyday wonder can help you thrive
A few weeks ago, as I stood beneath the dazzling display of the Aurora Australis (the Southern Lights) in Dunedin, New Zealand, I was overcome with a profound sense of awe.
The experience of awe is a truly remarkable phenomenon – a feeling of wonder, amazement, and a deep appreciation for something greater than ourselves. And as it turns out, this powerful emotion can have a profound impact on our overall wellbeing.
The Transformative Power of Awe
Research has shown that experiencing awe can bring about a wealth of benefits for our mental, emotional, and physical health. Studies have found that awe can boost positive emotions and life satisfaction, reduce stress and negative feelings, increase feelings of connectedness and humility, promote altruistic behaviors, and even enhance our focus and cognitive abilities. Awe can even make time feel like it’s slowing down, make us more aware of our environment, and has been linked to reduced inflammation in the body.
But perhaps most remarkably, awe can also increase our sense of life meaning and purpose. This is because awe experiences activate the vagus nerve, which is connected to various aspects of our wellbeing, including social connection, emotional regulation, and physical health.
Given the incredible benefits of awe, it’s important to find ways to incorporate awe-inspiring experiences into our daily lives. This could be as simple as taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of nature, such as watching a breathtaking sunset or gazing up at the stars. Visiting art galleries, museums, or architectural wonders can also evoke a profound sense of awe and wonder.
Even engaging in activities like reading thought-provoking books or listening to powerful music can trigger awe-like experiences. The key is to remain open and receptive to the world around us, and to take the time to truly appreciate the wonder and vastness of the universe.
By cultivating a sense of awe in our lives, we can not only enhance our personal wellbeing but also foster a greater sense of connection and compassion towards others. So, the next time you find yourself in the presence of something truly awe-inspiring, take a moment to pause, breathe, and soak in the experience. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you for it.
Everyday ways to invite awe into your life
- Spend time in nature, observing the beauty of the natural world
- Visit museums, art galleries, or architectural wonders that inspire a sense of wonder
- Read books or listen to music that challenge your perspectives and expand your horizons
- Engage in activities that allow you to appreciate the vastness of the universe, such as stargazing
- Seek out experiences that remind you of the interconnectedness of all things
- Cultivate a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the small, everyday moments in your life
I am making 2024 the Year of Living Deeper and in September, I’m exploring the incredible benefits of awe-inspiring experience.
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