03/09/2026
When was the last time you felt a sense of awe, and how did it make you feel?
There's some really interesting scientific study into the health and wellness benefits of experiencing a sense of awe.
Awe is defined as the feeling we get when we encounter something bigger than ourselves - something that makes us stop, take notice, and see things from a wider perspective. That 'vastness' could come from mountains, the night sky, music, birth, extraordinary human courage, spiritual experience, art, or even an idea.
Positive emotional states have correlated to increases in measurements of health and wellness, and 'awe' has shown greater improvements.
Studies suggest that experiencing awe may reduce perceived stress, lessen self-focused thinking, and increase feelings of connection and wellbeing. There are also early findings suggesting effects on the autonomic nervous system, although the research into physical health is still developing.
In this modern, fast-paced world and society, experiencing a sense of awe is a free and easy way to help modulate and regulate our nervous systems.
Getting out alone in nature is where I find my sense of awe. Where do you find yours, and is this something you'd want to develop?
