THE SCIENCE OF AWE

THOSE MOMENTS IN LIFE THAT STOP YOU IN YOUR TRACKS IN ASTONISHMENT? RESEARCH SAYS EXPERIENCING MORE OF THEM CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE.

- Lesley Alderman

WE TEND TO THINK OF AWE as being evoked by something absolutely astonishing, breathtaking, even seemingly supernatural. Standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon. Watching the Northern Lights. Witnessing the birth of a baby. Gazing at a work of art. Observing the immense and uncontrollable strength of a thunderstorm.

In these meaningful moments, our minds become still, our egos lose their grip, and our thoughts recede. Worries and concerns fade into the background. The captivating quality of awe reduces the mental chatter in our minds, not unlike what happens during meditation.

Yet smaller and seemingly less significant moments, the kind that we experience every day, can also evoke these same responses. Recently, during another COVID-19 surge, I became absorbed by the antics of the blue jays that had set up housekeeping in the tree outside my home office. I became fascinated by their boisterous behavior, style of communication (loud!), and even what they ate. Becoming curious and captivated by their playful nature gave me moments of happiness and peace. The birds were not bothered by news of world events. They kept doing their thing, and I, in turn, felt encouraged to do the same. Watching the birds, I later came to realize, gave me an experience of awe. And I was grateful for it.

WHAT EXACTLY IS AWE?