FINDING AWE IN EVERYDAY LIFE
Let’s talk about awe. Awe can be experienced in a variety of ways, but it generally occurs when you encounter something so magnificent that you lose yourself in total wonder. Maybe it’s seeing the Grand Canyon for the first time, or looking up at the night sky and seeing a brilliant full moon above you. It’s a state of mind that can be found in the grandeur of nature, the magnificence of art, the kindness of others, or even in the simplest moments of everyday life. It profoundly impacts our mental health by expanding our perspective, fostering positive emotions, and cultivating a sense of connectedness to something greater than ourselves. Scientific research has shown that experiencing awe can enhance psychological wellbeing, promote positive emotions, reduce stress, and increase overall life satisfaction.
This week, we’re highlighting resources to help you better understand awe and uncover moments of wonder in your everyday life. Whether it’s through mindfulness exercises, gratitude practices, or daily walks in nature, we encourage you to pause, open your senses, and engage with the world around you.
AWE
Finding Awe in the Ordinary
Greater Good Science Center
In this short video, an Iraq War veteran discusses how to appreciate the beauty and humanity in ordinary life in order to lead a life filled with awe.
An ‘Awe Walk’ Might Do Wonders for Your Wellbeing
The New York Times
This New York Times article dives into the benefits of ‘awe walks.’ According to the article, older men and women who took a fresh look at the objects and vistas around them felt more upbeat and hopeful.
How We Experience Awe – And Why It Matters
TED
Neuroscientist Beau Lotto conducted an ambitious study with Cirque du Soleil on the emotion of awe and its psychological and behavioral benefits. In this talk and live performance, he shares some of their findings — and stands backs as Cirque du Soleil dancers create their own awe-inducing spectacle.
Awestruck
by Jonah PaquetteÂ
Awestruck serves as a guide to help you tap into the powerful, life-changing benefits of awe. Beginning with a comprehensive explanation of the emotion, Jonah Paquette introduces us to the power of awe and how it can help alleviate struggles in our modern life, including stress, social isolation, and time pressure. This book provides an accessible and tangible path to bring more wonder into your everyday life. Awestruck shows us how to reclaim space for moments of reverence and ultimately find more joy and fulfillment in our lives.
ASSESSMENT
Are You Mindful or Is Your Mind Full?
Have you ever been on autopilot and don’t know how you arrived somewhere until you were there? Or been so absorbed in an activity that you don’t notice what’s happening until you’re done? This is called mindlessness. Mindlessness is a very common thing to experience, especially in a goal-oriented, get-stuff-done society. On the other hand, mindfulness can help keep us grounded in the present and has many physical, emotional, and mental benefits.
Take this assessment to find out if you’re mindful or if your mind is full. Afterward, check out our recommended resources to foster, maintain, or improve mindfulness habits.
