Awe is a feeling of wonder or reverence in response to something that is perceived as being vast, grand, or sublime. It is a positive emotion that is often accompanied by a sense of humility and a desire to learn more about the object or experience that is causing the feeling of awe.
Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment in a non-judgmental way. It involves being aware of one's thoughts, feelings, and sensations in a way that is open and accepting.
There is a connection between awe and mindfulness in that both involve a sense of being present and fully engaged with the present moment. When we experience awe, we may become fully absorbed in the experience and be more mindful of our surroundings and our own thoughts and feelings. Similarly, when we practice mindfulness, we may become more open to experiencing awe in our daily lives.
Research has suggested that experiencing awe may have a number of positive benefits, including increased feelings of happiness and well-being, improved social connections, and a greater sense of meaning and purpose. Cultivating a sense of awe and mindfulness may therefore be beneficial for both our mental and physical health.
There are a few ways that you can cultivate a sense of awe in your daily life:
Seek out new experiences: Awe often comes from encountering something new or unexpected. Consider trying new activities or visiting new places to expose yourself to new experiences that may trigger feelings of awe.
Pay attention to your surroundings: Take the time to really observe your surroundings and appreciate the beauty and complexity of the natural world. This may involve going for a walk in nature or simply taking a moment to notice the intricate patterns in a leaf or the way the sunlight filters through the trees.
Reflect on your own experiences: Awe can also come from reflecting on your own experiences and the ways in which they have shaped your life. Taking the time to reflect on your own journey and the things you have accomplished can help you to feel a sense of awe and gratitude for your own life.
Practice mindfulness: As mentioned earlier, mindfulness involves being present in the moment and open to new experiences. By practicing mindfulness, you may become more receptive to experiencing awe in your daily life.
By cultivating a sense of awe, you may be able to improve your mental health by increasing feelings of happiness and well-being, improving social connections, and gaining a greater sense of meaning and purpose. It is important to remember that cultivating a sense of awe is a personal process, and what brings feelings of awe to one person may be different for another. It may take some experimentation to find what works best for you.
Simon Harrison @ Mind and Therapy (Loughborough)
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