Awe is one of the most powerful and transformative emotions we can experience. It’s that overwhelming sense of wonder we feel when we encounter something vast, majestic, or deeply inspiring.
My most awe-inspiring moments were driving through the African rainforest, visiting the Dead Sea and its surrounding desert, flying over the Alps, and visiting the Norwegian Fjords.
Awe can be experienced when standing at the edge of a mountain, watching a stunning sunset, listening to a moving piece of music, or witnessing a profound act of kindness.
It leaves us feeling small in the grand scheme of things but simultaneously connected to something larger than ourselves.
As research begins to uncover the importance of awe, its benefits are becoming clearer, pointing to profound effects on mental, emotional, and even physical well-being.
What Is Awe?
At its core, awe is an emotion that arises when we encounter something that challenges or expands our normal way of thinking. It often occurs in response to something vast – whether in size, scope, complexity, or significance – that shifts our perception of the world.
Awe can make us feel both humbled and uplifted at the same time, as it takes us outside of our usual self-focused frame of mind and allows us to grasp a broader perspective.
While awe has traditionally been associated with natural wonders like mountains, oceans, or starry skies. It can also be inspired by human achievements, art, spiritual experiences, or moments of deep interpersonal connection.
Moments that stand out when it comes to being in awe of individuals include hearing Samantha Barks singing Let it Go in the West End version of Frozen, watching Six the Musical, and the Paralympic Team of 2020.
There are other people many of us are in awe of when it comes to their work and achievements. Some examples include Grace Beverley, Malala Yousafzai, Nelson Mandela, Tenzin Gyatso (the fourteenth Dalai Lama), the Obamas, Jodi Picoult, and Olivia Coleman, but there are so many others, not all of them in the public eye.
No matter the source, awe has the power to shape how we view the world and our place within it.
The Psychological Benefits of Awe
One of the most fascinating aspects of awe is its ability to change the way we think and feel. Research has shown that experiencing awe can lead to a variety of psychological benefits, which can have long-lasting effects on our well-being.
Increased Generosity and Compassion
Awe has been found to increase feelings of compassion and generosity toward others. When we experience awe, we often feel a sense of interconnectedness, which shifts our focus away from our own concerns and toward a greater sense of community.
This can lead to more altruistic behaviours, as we become more willing to help others and less focused on material possessions or individual gains.
Reduction in Stress and Anxiety
Experiencing awe can act as a natural stress reliever. Studies have shown that people who frequently encounter awe report lower levels of stress and anxiety.
This may be because awe allows us to step outside of our immediate worries and appreciate the beauty or significance of life, helping us to put our problems into perspective. In this way, awe fosters a sense of calm and reduces the impact of daily stressors.
Greater Sense of Life Satisfaction
Awe can also enhance our overall sense of life satisfaction. By expanding our sense of self and our understanding of the world, awe allows us to feel more content and fulfilled.
We become less preoccupied with minor frustrations and more in tune with the bigger picture, leading to a more meaningful and satisfying life experience.
Enhanced Creativity and Curiosity
Awe has been linked to increases in curiosity and creativity. When we experience awe, we’re often inspired to learn more about what caused that feeling – whether it’s the natural world, a piece of art, or a new idea.
This curiosity can fuel creative thinking and problem-solving, as we’re motivated to explore new perspectives and seek out new experiences.
The Physical Benefits of Awe
Awe isn’t just beneficial for our minds—it can also have positive effects on our physical health. Research has shown that experiencing awe can reduce inflammation in the body, a key factor in many chronic diseases such as heart disease and arthritis.
People who report feeling awe more frequently also tend to have lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, suggesting that awe might have a protective effect on physical health.
Additionally, awe has been found to improve overall well-being by lowering cortisol levels and even boosting immune function. In this way, awe acts as a powerful antidote to the wear and tear of modern life, supporting both mental and physical health.
How to Cultivate Awe in Everyday Life
While awe-inspiring moments might seem rare, there are ways to cultivate awe in your daily life. Here are a few strategies to help experience more awe:
Spend Time in Nature
Nature is one of the most reliable sources of awe. Take time to explore natural settings, whether it’s a hike in the mountains, a walk through a park, or simply stargazing on a clear night.
Seek Out Art and Music
Art, music, and other forms of creative expression can evoke awe by presenting us with beauty, complexity, and emotional depth. Visit museums, listen to moving music, or watch performances that inspire wonder.
Practise Mindfulness
Being fully present in the moment can heighten your awareness of the world around you, making it easier to recognise awe-inspiring experiences in your everyday life.
Expand Your Horizons
Seek out new experiences and ideas that challenge your current way of thinking. Whether it’s learning something new, traveling to a new place, or engaging in deep conversations, novelty can trigger feelings of awe.
Connecting to the richness of life
Awe is a powerful emotion that connects us to the vastness of the world and the richness of life.
By opening ourselves up to awe-inspiring experiences, we can enjoy the mental, emotional, and physical benefits that come with it.
Whether through nature, art, or moments of profound connection, awe has the ability to transform our perspective and enhance our well-being.
