Welcoming awe

Awe. What a great way to welcome the new year!

Take a minute to think back to the last time you experienced a moment of “awe.” That feeling of wonder, amazement, admiration, reverence, etc. It’s often defined as the feeling we get when we experience something bigger than us or something that challenges our perception of the world (or perhaps reinforces our wonder or admiration). 

Well, as it turns out there are different types of “awe” but research suggests more positive or pleasurable feelings of awe are actually good for us! I have to admit, I was thrilled to learn about the benefits, as this is something I actually experience on a regular basis (unlike going to the gym, even prior to the pandemic) and doesn’t need to take up a lot of time (because we’re all way too busy, right?). 

I think many of us think of nature as being a common source of awe. You know, that feeling we get when we look at a star filled sky, a beautiful sunset, or a majestic mountain. But feelings of awe can come from many other sources including other people, art, photographs, objects around our homes, and even people. My most frequent experiences of awe definitely come from nature: beautiful sunsets, the shadows of the trees on the snow during a full moon, the snow swirling in the yard during a windy day. 

But as I’ve read more about awe, I remembered one experience about a year and a half or so ago that was elicited by my observation of a man who appeared to be going through a difficult time. His clothes were well worn and in need of a wash and were not well suited to the chill in the air. He was politely approaching people for spare change when he noticed a woman, who was blind, playing music for donations. He approached her, shifting his gaze between her and the money that had been placed in her bowl. He stood there for several minutes before reaching into his pockets and emptying the contents into her donation bowl, before walking away.

Awe - the human spirit and expressions of kindness towards others, even in our own times of need.

Interested in reading more on the topic of awe? Check out this article that discusses what it is, why we should practice it, and how to cultivate it.

Interested in finding more moments of awe right in your home? Take a look at this article on finding awe and beauty even when we are stuck indoors. It also includes some great information on micro-dosing mindfulness, which is part of the awe experience.

Not in the mood for reading? Take a look at this quick 4-minute video intended to elicit awe.