How to Be "Rich" in Awe

Because we can find awe anywhere. Because doing so doesn’t require money or the burning of fossil fuels—or even much time. Our research suggests that just a couple of minutes a day will do. Because we have a basic need for awe wired into our brains and bodies, finding awe is easy if we just take a moment and wonder. Because all of us, no matter wha

In Awe: The Delights and Dangers of Our Eleventh Emotion, neuropsychologist Paul Pearsall defines awe as an “overwhelming and bewildering sense of connection with a startling universe that is usually far beyond the narrow band of our consciousness.” And not surprisingly, this nature-inspired awe is also good for our health. A landmark study by Jenn

It is tempting to think that greater wealth enables us to find more awe, in the fancy home, for example, or exclusive resort, or high-end consumer goods. In fact, the opposite appears to be true, that wealth undermines everyday awe and our capacity to see the moral beauty in others, the wonders of nature, or the sublime in music or art. Our experie

Find Time to Experience Awe Taking scenic hikes or spending a few moments looking up into the sky can rejuvenate you. Awe-inspiring experiences reduce time stress.26 When you’re thinking about what activities to add to your schedule, try blocking in time for a walk in the park—being surrounded by nature—or watching a scenic YouTube video at your de

Awe is the feeling of being in the presence of something vast that transcends your current understanding of the world.