When was the last time you felt truly amazed—so moved by the beauty, vastness, or mystery of something that words seemed to fall short? That feeling is awe, and it's more than just a fleeting emotion. Research shows that awe has powerful effects on our mental health and overall well-being.

Awe is often described as the sense of being in the presence of something greater than ourselves. It can arise when standing before a mountain range, watching a thunderstorm roll across the sky, listening to an orchestra play in perfect harmony, or even witnessing a small but profound act of kindness. What all of these moments have in common is that they take us out of our own heads and place us in direct connection with the larger world around us.

From a mental health perspective, awe helps to shift our focus. Instead of being caught up in worries, daily stressors, or self-criticism, awe encourages perspective. When we feel awe, our problems can seem smaller and more manageable. This doesn't mean they disappear, but awe creates space to see life with more balance and clarity.

Awe also supports connection. People who experience awe report feeling less isolated and more linked to others and the natural world. This sense of belonging and humility can be protective for mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Physiologically, awe can even reduce stress by lowering levels of inflammation and calming the nervous system.

The good news is that awe doesn't require a trip to a mountaintop. Everyday awe can be found in a child's laughter, a beautiful piece of art, the night sky, or even pausing to notice the details of a flower. Cultivating moments of awe regularly can act like a reset button for the mind and body, helping us reconnect with what matters most.

How to Practice Awe in Daily Life

While awe can sometimes surprise us, it's also something we can intentionally seek out. One way is to spend time in nature—taking a walk in the park, watching the clouds drift by, or stargazing can all create opportunities for awe. Engaging with art, music, or literature that moves you is another accessible doorway. Even in everyday routines, slowing down and paying attention to small details—the texture of leaves, the complexity of a bird's song, or the kindness of a stranger—can spark moments of awe.

You can also try an "awe walk," where you intentionally step outside with the purpose of noticing what inspires wonder. By approaching familiar places with fresh eyes, you may find awe hiding in the ordinary.

At Mind and Match, we encourage people to explore practices that nurture mental health both inside and outside of therapy. Building space for awe in your daily life is one of those practices. Next time you feel overwhelmed, consider stepping outside, taking in your surroundings, and letting yourself be moved by something greater than yourself. Those small sparks of awe can add up to meaningful improvements in mental health and well-being.