Awe arises in encounters with stimuli that are vast, or beyond one’s current perceptual frame of reference (Keltner & Haidt, 2003).
What is your sense of Awe?
As we wrap up school we need to help our minds and bodies find a sense of calm, peace, and awe.
If you watch the clip above Keltner talks about veterans with PTSD and how the feeling of awe at a river has proven to have a positive effect on mental health.
Keltner goes on to share that the simple act of looking up at trees can help create compassion and willingness to help strangers.
Research is showing us that Awe is a feeling all to itself and is important in our lives.
Finding your awe can help you with your mental health. Research is also proving that experiencing awe can have a positive effect on your physical health.
Some of the specific findings related to mental and physical well-being, as it relates to the feeling of awe are:
*sense of connection and well-being
*openness to others and prosocial behavior
* reduced anxiety, depression, and social rejection
* improvement of cardiovascular problems and autoimmune disease
So what is Awe and how do we find it?
As suggested already, one way to find awe is in nature. Psychologist Adam Grant recently posted a mindful thought about water and how simply being near it and watching it can improve your mental health. He went on to share that the more vast the body of water the greater the affect.
One study in 2017 found that experiences of awe led people to feeling enlivened, robust, and strengthened, in ways beyond words.
We have mentioned that nature is a way to experience awe but it is not the only way.
Other ways are through what might be referred to as a mystical encounter or a spiritual experience. Belief in a higher power, feelings of being connected to supernatural forces, and strong social connection to this community.
Another way to experience awe is through music, movement, or ceremony. Specific songs, concert experiences, or dancing can bring to you a feeling of awe.
Seek out your own awe and improve your well-being.
