Awe is a powerful emotion that reminds us of the vastness and beauty of life, and that’s definitely something we need more of these days.
It helps us feel connected, inspired, and even rejuvenated, reminding us that as bad as things sometimes seem in the world, there are still bright spots that make it all worthwhile. While moments of awe might seem rare, they’re all around us if we take the time to notice. In fact, there are plenty of common sources of awe you can intentionally include in your day to feel more grounded and uplifted. The more you start to notice the incredible wonder of even the tiniest things in life, the easier it becomes to spot more opportunities for astonishment in life.
1. Sunrise and sunset
There’s something almost magical about watching the world change colours at the start and end of the day. Sunrises and sunsets have a way of painting the sky in vibrant hues, reminding us of the constant cycles of nature. Whether you catch it from your back garden or through a window, these moments provide a quiet reminder of the beauty in the world. It’s a small but powerful pause that can reset your mood and fill you with a sense of wonder.
2. Starlit skies
Looking up at a star-filled sky has this incredible way of making us feel both small and connected to something much bigger. There’s just something about the sheer scale of the universe that sparks curiosity and awe. If you can, take a moment to look at the stars on a clear night. Get away from city lights if you can, and allow yourself a bit of time to take in the vastness of the cosmos. Even just picking out constellations or imagining the distances between the stars can be an inspiring experience.
3. Nature’s intricate details
Sometimes, the most awe-inspiring moments come from the tiniest details in nature. The veins in a leaf, the delicate patterns on a butterfly’s wings, or the rough texture of tree bark all show how incredible the natural world is. When you slow down and really look, you can’t help but feel a sense of awe at how complex and beautiful the world around us is. Next time you’re outside, take a moment to observe the smaller things. It’s a reminder of life’s beauty in the little details.
4. Children’s curiosity
Kids have a way of making everything feel new and exciting. Watching them explore the world with wide-eyed curiosity is honestly awe-inspiring. Whether it’s the thrill of chasing bubbles or the wonder of discovering something for the first time, their enthusiasm is infectious. Spending time with children or even remembering your own experiences of childhood wonder can reignite that sense of awe. Their unfiltered joy is a gentle reminder to take pleasure in the simple things.
5. Music that moves you
Music has this magical ability to stir up emotions and transport us to another place. Whether it’s a beautiful symphony, an upbeat song, or a moving ballad, the right music can make us feel connected to something bigger than ourselves. Take a few moments to really listen to a song that speaks to you. Let it move you, whether it’s helping you relax, pump you up, or just reflect on life. Music has a way of grounding us while also lifting us up.
6. Acts of kindness
There’s something incredibly awe-inspiring about watching or participating in acts of kindness. Whether it’s a stranger helping someone in need or a friend going out of their way to support you, those small moments remind us of the goodness that exists in people. And it’s not just about witnessing kindness—it’s about creating it, too. Look for ways to be kind throughout your day, or simply take a moment to appreciate the kindness you see around you. It’s a reminder that goodness is everywhere, and it can make a huge difference in our lives.
7. Art and creativity
There’s something incredibly awe-inspiring about watching or participating in acts of kindness. Whether it’s a stranger helping someone in need or a friend going out of their way to support you, those small moments remind us of the goodness that exists in people. And it’s not just about witnessing kindness—it’s about creating it, too. Look for ways to be kind throughout your day, or simply take a moment to appreciate the kindness you see around you. It’s a reminder that goodness is everywhere, and it can make a huge difference in our lives.
8. Powerful storytelling
There’s something incredibly awe-inspiring about watching or participating in acts of kindness. Whether it’s a stranger helping someone in need or a friend going out of their way to support you, those small moments remind us of the goodness that exists in people. And it’s not just about witnessing kindness—it’s about creating it, too. Look for ways to be kind throughout your day, or simply take a moment to appreciate the kindness you see around you. It’s a reminder that goodness is everywhere, and it can make a huge difference in our lives.
9. Movement of water
There’s something about water that’s naturally calming and awe-inspiring. The sound of waves crashing on the shore, the way a stream moves over rocks, or even the simple rhythm of a fountain can stop you in your tracks. Water has a way of reminding us of both the power and the serenity of nature. If you can, spend time near water—whether it’s a beach, a river, or just a puddle in a park. Or, if you can’t, find videos or sounds of water to listen to. It’s a soothing, awe-filled way to take a break from the busyness of life.
10. Technological innovation
When you take a step back and think about the incredible advances in technology, it’s hard not to be filled with awe. Whether it’s space exploration, medical breakthroughs, or artificial intelligence, the things we’ve achieved are pretty mind-blowing. There’s a lot of wonder in just thinking about how far we’ve come and imagining where we’re headed next. Dive into documentaries or articles about new innovations, and take a moment to reflect on how technology has changed the world and will continue to do so.
11. Witnessing resilience
One of the most humbling and awe-inspiring things to witness is resilience. Seeing someone overcome challenges, persist in the face of adversity, or bounce back from hard times is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit. Whether it’s a personal story, a documentary, or even just a conversation with a friend, resilience can really leave you in awe of what people are capable of. It can inspire you to tap into your own strength, and remind you that we all have the ability to persevere and thrive, no matter the odds.
12. Spontaneous moments of beauty
Sometimes, it’s the little, unplanned moments that leave us speechless. A rainbow after a rainstorm, sunlight streaming through the trees, or a moment of shared laughter with a stranger can all be deeply awe-inspiring. These moments remind us to be present and appreciate the fleeting wonders that life offers. Make it a habit to keep an open mind and look for these little surprises throughout your day. When you do, you’ll cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude and awe that can carry you through even the toughest moments.
