Awe is that sense of wonder we feel when we encouter something greater than ourself.  What is unique about awe is that it can both humble and uplift us.  The sense of connection we experience has multiple benefits for our wellbeing. 

I’ll recently wrote about the power of being out in nature and then last weekend I was walking in the Dorset countryside and came across vast carpets of bluebells.  The sun was filtering through the trees, and it was simply stunning.  I just stood quietly and appreciated the scale and beauty of nature with a sense of total awe. 

That feeling of awe is recognised by psychologists and research shows it has a positive impact on our wellbeing, shaping our perspective, improving our mental health, and even enhancing physical health.

What Is Awe?

Awe is that sense of wonder we feel when we encounter something greater than ourselves. It’s the moment when we pause, overwhelmed by the vastness, beauty, or complexity of something beyond our usual understanding. We use the term ‘awe inspiring’ to describe the moments when we experience this.

Defined by psychologists Dacher Keltner and Jonathan Haidt (2003), awe is the emotional response to experiences that are perceptually vast and challenge our existing understanding of the world. It requires what they describe as a “need for accommodation” where we take a moment to adjust our mental frameworks to comprehend what we’re seeing or feeling.

Where it is unique as an emotion is its ability to both humble and uplift us. We may feel small in the grand scheme of things while also feeling connected to something larger than ourselves.

The Science Behind Awe and Wellbeing

Research suggests that awe isn’t just a pleasant feeling, it has real, measurable benefits for our mental, emotional, and even physical health.

1. Awe Reduces Stress and Promotes Mental Health

One of the most significant benefits of experiencing awe is its ability to lower stress. Studies show that when people feel awe, their levels of cortisol decrease. This calming effect makes awe a natural antidote to anxiety and overwhelm.

Awe also fosters mindfulness. Because awe-inspiring experiences demand our full attention, they help us step out of our worries and into the present moment. This state of being fully present has been linked to reduced rumination, improved mood, and a greater sense of life satisfaction.

2. Awe Shifts Perspective and Fosters Humility

Feeling awe makes us more aware of how small we are in the grand scheme of things,uyh768i but felt in a good way. Instead of feeling insignificant, awe encourages us to see beyond our personal concerns, giving us a broader, more connected perspective. Research has found that awe can reduce ego driven thinking, making people more open minded and less self-focused. This shift in perspective helps cultivate humility and gratitude, both of which are linked to increased happiness and resilience.

3. Awe Enhances Social Connection and Kindness

Awe has a unique way of bringing people together. Studies have shown that people who experience awe are more likely to help others, donate to charity, or show empathy. This is because awe makes us feel part of something bigger than ourselves, reinforcing a sense of collective belonging, triggering social behaviours.

4. Awe May Boost Physical Health

The benefits of awe extend beyond mental and social wellbeing. Some research suggests that awe can reduce markers of inflammation which are associated with chronic diseases like heart disease and depression. While more studies are needed, early findings indicate that awe, like other positive emotions, plays a role in supporting overall health.

How to Cultivate More Awe in Everyday Life

Awe doesn’t have to come from big, dramatic experiences and including awe into our life doesn’t need major changes.  It is often about slowing down and creating space to wonder and appreciate.  Some other simple ways to tap into the power of awe include:

1. Spend Time in Nature

Nature is one of the most consistent sources of awe, and where I personally notice the feeling of awe. Take a walk in the woods, watch a sunset, or simply look up at the stars. Even brief moments in nature can help shift your perspective and enhance your mood.

2. Seek Out Art, Music, and Books

Great works of art, music, and literature have the power to move us deeply. Whether it’s a beautiful painting, a stirring piece of music, or an inspiring book, engaging with creativity can evoke awe and wonder.

3. Witness Acts of Human Greatness

Whether it’s watching an athlete perform at their peak, seeing an act of kindness, or hearing about someone who overcame immense challenges, witnessing human excellence and goodness can be a powerful source of awe.

4. Practice Mindful Observation

Awe doesn’t have to come from something big.  It can be found in small, everyday moments. Take a moment to truly observe the world around you. The more we pay attention, the more awe we can find.

Practicing Awe

Awe is a powerful and often overlooked, tool for improving our wellbeing. It shifts our focus from the mundane to the wonderful, helping us feel more connected, less stressed, and more compassionate.

By making a conscious effort to seek out moments of wonder, we can bring more joy, perspective, and meaning into our daily lives.

There are so many elements to wellbeing and so much we can proactively do to increase our own wellbeing.  To explore the range of workshops and webinars I deliver around all things wellbeing please get in touch.  It would be great to chat!