What is awe?

University of California, Berkley Psychologist Dacher Keltner who consulted on the movie Inside Out describes awe as the “feeing of being in the presence of something vast or beyond human scale, that transcends our current understanding of things.”  Although many people think the feeling of awe a luxury, Keltner’s research shows it’s a basic human need and as available as a beautiful sunrise or sunset.

In fact, Jennifer Stellar at the University of toronto thinks that awe is responsible for the link between time in nature and lowered blood pressure and a stronger immune system.  Current studies are discovering that awe makes us more cooperative, ethical and fair with each other.  Our bodies are programmed to respond to awe and we are beginning to understand why.

This month’s meditation will guide you to a moment of awe… Savor!

Warmly,

Dr.Deb Sandella