The Science of Wonder: 7+ Surprising Benefits of Feeling Awe

 Hi friends,

I’ve been doing some research lately on the benefits of seeking awe and wonder — and honestly, it’s fascinating.

It’s something I seem to experience easily and often, which sometimes makes me feel a little weird. Throughout my life, whoever was next to me would usually say, “uhhh… yeah, cool,” while I was over here having a full “WHOA, look at that!” moment.

Sometimes it’s literally just a leaf. So, fair.

But it’s made me question whether I was still acting childish as a 37-year-old woman.

And as it turns out — I’m not.

Wonder Isn’t Childish — It’s Neurological Gold 

Some people really do experience awe more readily than others, and according to researchers at the University of California, Berkeley’s Greater Good Science Center, that sensitivity to wonder can be a strength — not a weakness.

When we experience awe, parts of the brain associated with self-focus quiet down, while those related to perception, empathy, and connectedness light up. In short: your “whoa” moments are literally rewiring your brain for good.

The Proven Benefits of Awe and Wonder 

Here are some very cool (and science-backed) reasons to seek out more awe in your daily life:

It builds better relationships. 

Awe increases our sense of connection to the Earth, other people, and even strangers — expanding empathy and compassion (Keltner & Haidt, Cognition and Emotion, 2003).

It expands your worldview. 

When you’re in awe, your mind opens to new perspectives, enhancing creativity and critical thinking.

It quiets the inner noise.

Research shows awe experiences reduce activity in the brain’s “default mode network” — the area tied to self-referential thoughts and rumination (Yaden et al., Frontiers in Psychology, 2019). Translation: less mind chatter, more gratitude.

It supports physical health.

Awe has been linked to lower inflammation markers, reduced blood pressure, improved cardiovascular health, and a stronger immune response (Stellar et al., Emotion, 2015).

It makes us more generous and collaborative.

Awe nudges us toward a “small self” perspective — we see ourselves as part of a bigger whole, which fosters cooperation and community (Piff et al., Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 2015).

Basically, awe is the emotional equivalent of a full-body vitamin.

(As if reducing your anxiety-inducing mind chatter wasn’t enough.)

 How to Cultivate More Awe in Everyday Life

 So get out there, go for a walk, and stare at a leaf today!

I’m just kidding — sort of.

 Sure, nature is one of the biggest sources of wonder. But there are plenty of ways to experience it, even without a mountain view or forest trail.

 Try these instead:

• Read about something new. Curiosity primes your brain for awe.
• Listen to someone deeply. No agenda, no waiting for your turn — just presence. Sometimes, another person’s story is the most awe-inspiring thing there is.
• Create something. Whether it’s a meal, a painting, or a playlist, marveling at the fact that you made it taps into the same sense of expansion that awe brings.
• Watch a documentary. One of my favorites is A World of Calm on MAX — each episode is a visual and sensory masterpiece.

 The point is: keep your eyes open. Awe is everywhere. And when you find it, your body, brain, and heart all get the memo.

 Who knows — maybe that leaf really is as amazing as it looks.

 — Brianna