The Power Of Awe – Put Magic In Your Day

I am mentally preparing myself for the five-year-old mind.

I want to come down to their physical limitations

and up to their sense of wonder and awe.

— Shinichi Suzuki

The feeling of awe, that overwhelming sense of wonder and amazement, has the remarkable ability to stop us in our tracks and remind us of the vast, intricate beauty of life. Whether it’s gazing at a starlit sky, standing on a spectacular mountain top, or watching a world-class runner tear across the finish line, awe busts us out of our everyday routines and reconnects us with something far larger than ourselves. Awe is the closest sensation we have to actually experiencing magic — science asserts that this feeling has profound effects on our bodies and minds.

What is Awe?

Awe is a complex emotion that melds two main aspects: vastness and a need for mental accommodation. Vastness is about the perception of something greater than ourselves — physical, conceptual, or social. This could mean the grandeur of a natural landscape, the immensity of the universe, or the brilliance of a groundbreaking idea. On the other hand, accommodation refers to the cognitive process of adjusting our mental frameworks to apprehend and comprehend the experience. In simpler terms, awe expands our worldview, forcing us to think beyond our usual boundaries.

While happiness and excitement often draw upon personal joy, awe shifts the focus outward, sparking a sense of humility and interconnectedness.

The Science Behind Awe’s Effects

Research has shown that experiencing awe can trigger a cascade of positive effects on our mental and physical well-being.

1. Reduced Stress and Improved Mental Health

Awe has been linked to decreased levels of cortisol — the stress hormone. When we experience awe, our bodies enter a state of relaxation and calm, reducing feelings of anxiety and worry. Studies have found that parking self-centered concerns and focusing on life in the world, awe can alleviate symptoms of depression.

2. Enhanced Creativity

By encouraging us to think beyond our usual frameworks, awe can inspire original thought, creativity and innovation. Whether it’s a musician composing a piece after witnessing a breathtaking view or a scientist discovering new possibilities after pondering the vastness of the cosmos, awe has the power to unlock new ways of thinking.

I grew up in Brooklyn and I was a street kid. … [T]here was one aspect of that environment that struck me as different, and that was the stars. … I could tell they were lights in the sky, but that wasn’t an explanation. I mean, what were they? Little electric bulbs on long black wires, so you couldn’t see what they were held up by? What were they? … My mother said, “Look, we just got you a library card … get out a book and find the answer.” … It was in there. It was stunning. The answer was that the Sun was a star, except very far away. … The dazzling idea of a universe vast beyond imagining swept over me. … I sensed awe. 

— Carl Sagan

3. Stronger Social Bonds

Experiencing awe can make us feel more connected to others. It fosters a sense of community and cooperation, encouraging us to act more altruistically. This is particularly evident when people share awe-inspiring moments, such as attending a concert or marveling at a natural wonder together.

Awe in Everyday Life

While awe is often associated with extraordinary experiences, it’s possible to cultivate it in everyday life. You don’t need to climb a mountain or travel to a far-off destination to feel awe; you simply need to open your mind to the wonder around you.

“Without awe life becomes routine…try to be surprised by something every day. Try to surprise at least one person every day.” 

― Mihalyi Csikszentmihalyi

1. Reconnect with Nature

Nature is one of the most accessible sources of awe. Take a walk in a park, watch the sunrise, or spend time observing the intricate patterns of a flower. Even brief moments of connection with the natural world can evoke a sense of wonder.

2. Seek Out Art and Music

Art and music have a unique ability to transport us to other realms. Visit a museum, attend a Broadway musical, or simply lie on your bed and listen to a piece of music that moves you deeply. These experiences can evoke awe by reminding us of the immense creativity and talent humans are capable of.

3. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness can help you tune into the present moment and appreciate the beauty of the here and now. Pay attention to the details of your surroundings, from the rustling of leaves to children laughing — immerse yourself in the experience.

The Ripple Effect of Awe

The effects of awe don’t stop with the individual; they ripple outward to influence our relationships, communities, and society as a whole. People who experience awe are more likely to act with generosity, kindness, and empathy, creating a positive cycle of energy that benefits everyone around them.

Imagine a world where awe is a regular part of our daily lives. People might collaborate more effectively, and appreciate the beauty in diversity, and approach conflicts with greater understanding. Awe can be a transformative force not just for individuals, but for humanity as a whole.

Awe is a doorway to a deeper connection with the world around us. By seeking out moments of wonder and the magic of awe, we can transform our lives. So, take the time to appreciate the magnificence of a single moment — make space for awe. It’s the closest thing we have to magic — it’s just waiting for you to pay attention.