There are beautiful moments in life that render us speechless, overwhelmed with wonder and inspiration that is difficult to put into words. We might witness an incredible sunset that captivates us, hear a song that moves us to tears, or experience the birth of a child that puts life into perspective. That feeling is awe, and it’s one of the most powerful and important emotions for our well-being.
Studies show that awe can strengthen the immune system, slow the heart rate, relieve digestion, and deepen our breathing. Beyond the physical benefits, awe has important spiritual advantages that are tied to our higher purpose in this world.
Here are 3 spiritual benefits of being awestruck every day:
1. It gives us a sense of humility.
One of the most powerful effects of awe is that it is humbling. We often get so distracted and caught up in the challenges of our own lives that when we take a moment to step back and see the bigger picture, it can be eye-opening.
Witnessing something that fills us with a sense of awe lets us see beyond ourselves to experience a greater reality. This can help put into perspective our place in the world. It shows us we are a small part of something much larger, but instead of making us feel insignificant, it makes us feel connected. This can be a great ego check. People who experience more awe tend to be more generous, kinder, and have a greater sense of their need to do more for the world.
2. It helps us understand the magnitude of what we are capable of.
Experiencing a sense of awe allows us to see the vastness of what is possible. By understanding how vast everything outside of us is, we begin to grasp how vast we are as well. Appreciating the beauty and power of the world around us shows us what is possible within ourselves and diminishes the self-critical voice in our heads that holds us back.
We are much greater than the bodies we are in. We can create things and share things that are far beyond us. Our impact is not limited to the space we occupy physically. Awe allows us to transcend the confines of the body and the ego and see that anything is possible.
3. Awe helps us accomplish our higher purpose.
When we understand that we have limitless potential from a place of true humility, it naturally leads us to ask ourselves, “What am I meant to do, and how can I do more?” Awe puts us in the right frame of mind to accomplish the unique purpose of our souls.
Without a sense of wonder, we risk having a false sense of ourselves and our place in the world. When we don’t understand how powerful and important we are, it becomes almost impossible to fulfill our higher purpose.
Rather than thinking of awe as just another spiritual tool, make it the focus of your practice. It’s a powerful way of life that can put you on the path to discovering and working towards your higher calling.
Awe is not just a beautiful or interesting concept but an essential element to our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Even simple moments can inspire awe – walking by a beautiful tree or focusing on someone doing a positive action. How many times did you feel awestruck today? Are you feeling a greater sense of wonder every day? What are you doing to experience awe?
Try new things. Search for newness. The more you look for these moments, the easier it becomes to have them. Awe leads to more awe.
