― W.B. Yeats
The dictionary defines awe as, "an overwhelming feeling of reverence, admiration, fear, etc. produced by that which is grand, sublime, extremely powerful." If you pause for a moment, when was the last time you felt an overwhelming reverence or admiration for your world? It is so easy to hop from task to task, to bury our noses in our phones, to be so consumed with life that we forget to notice that awe is all around us.
Researchers are finding that moments of awe are linked to better health, more vitality, less stress, and more effective coping strategies. As we glance away from the mundane tasks of living and gain a much broader perspective, we begin to feel the 'smallness' of being connected to the whole. From the trees to the bee's, nature has a way of showing us our interconnectedness.
The GGSC has shared four of the top research based activities to increase awe.
- Write about a personal experience of awe. - recall your experience in vivid detail. Perhaps it was an astounding vacation, the first time you met your new baby, a scenic vista, etc. This is a great exercise to get you out of a rut and into the feelings of 'awe.'
- Take an Awe Walk. - An awe walk simply involves taking a little stroll to a location that has the potential to be awe inspiring. (Please leave your cell phones in the car or at home)! Your attitude plays a large role in this walk. Imagine as if you are seeing your surroundings for the first time. I find that connecting with nature leaves me with a profound sense of wonder. How about you?
- Watch an awe-inducing video. - Ideally this video would induce a sense of awe due to the majestic scenery and vastness of the surroundings. Check out YouTube for some video clips.
- Read an awe-inspiring story. - Checkout books that elicit the experience of actually being involved in the story. The article suggests checking out Stephen Hawking's, A Brief History of Time.
May you be encouraged to create more moments of 'AWE' in your daily life. Curiosity opens our hearts to the experience of awe. Our willingness to look with new vision welcomes grand new ways of connecting.
May You Sweetly Seek:)
In Gratitude,
Sarah