A topic that is gaining traction when it comes to general health and well-being is awe. It’s a tiny word, but a vast concept. If you look it up in a dictionary you’ll find definitions such as – ‘a feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder’.

We’ve all experienced moments of awe in your lives, but it’s usually not something we think about. For me, awe inspiring moments tend to be when I’m immersed in nature, or admiring a beautiful work of art. We also experience awe when we notice small things, like the perfection of a flower. I believe we all crave feelings of awe. We want to feel the wonder of the world, not just the weight of it.

The benefits of awe

Mood enhancer

Awe makes us feel good. For this reason alone it’s worth being open to experiencing as much awe in our lives as possible. It’s easy to get lost in a world of materialism and consumerism. Awe elevates us from the mundane to the magical.

Pulls us into the present

Awe gets us out of our heads, where we are usually regurgitating the past, or worrying about the future. Awe pulls us into the present and heightens our senses as we are captivated by what’s right in front of us.

Reduces negative self-talk

Awe quietens our negative self-talk. It jolts us out of habitual thinking and can prompt us to perceive ourselves in a different way, perhaps as part of a greater whole. Awe is an avenue out of self-preoccupation and when we are less focused on ourselves we will be more considerate of others.

Connection

Experiencing moments of awe makes us want to talk about them and share them. We want to extend the experience, maybe relive it, perhaps dissect it and certainly include others when we can.

Source of inspiration

Perhaps it’s because it encourages us to be still and present, feelings of awe help to clear our heads and open our hearts. This is the space where inspiration can strike. I’ve always found that expansive external landscapes help me to connect with my own inner landscape.

Creates a sense of more time

Awe slows us down. We calibrate with a different pace of life. It nourishes our soul and raises our vibration. If you are watching a sunset, you’re not seeking to rush it, or change it. You simply appreciate what you are witnessing.

With all the benefits moments of awe accrues for us, it makes sense that we open ourselves to awe as frequently and as deeply as we can. So that’s my challenge to you. How can you attune to the magnetic quality of awe and allow it to enhance your sense of well-being?

Some months ago I shared my personal experiences of awe on my podcast. You can listen to that episode here. In it, I also share some suggestions for preparing ourselves to be available to receive moments of awe.