As Seniors, we are far more likely than younger folks to claim having been in AWE of certain experiences many times in our lives, but what have you done lately to find a new sense of awe…? Minds leap to mental images of The Grand Canyon, or Niagara Falls, or Machu Pichu, but closer to home there are certainly additional options. Aside from travel, it can be found in the face of incredible music performances or art galleries or observatories. It can also be found as you participate in and witness a personal, incredibly meaningful moment for someone dear to you – such as a wedding, or perhaps you will create awe yourself through some unexpected but incredible act of kindness for a friend or a stranger, or cultivating a true sense of awe for a child. The key is to 1) find an experience (or a couple of them!) this year which are likely to promote a sense of awe for you.. and 2) be sure you are ready for it. Clear your mind before you begin, and let the sense of transcendence or profound emotions or the vastness of the natural world leave an impact on you.
As a result, these experiences can dramatically reduce stress and greatly improve moods as you step outside of oneself. As you can read in the link below, “When we are in the presence of something vast and indescribable, we feel insignificant, and so do our worries. The experience of awe lifts us out of the ordinary practical thoughts that dominate our daily lives. And it allows us to have inner peace… Consequently, generating awe can trigger a great mental shift, making it a potentially essential tool to improve our health and well-being.”
Learn more about the many emotional and physical benefits which come from Seeking Awe
One of my favorite tender and passionate music performances which chills me is below – be sure you listen til the end… And send us your favorites!
For those of you who want some specific ideas for places you can visit to find awe-inspiring experiences, check these out… and please email amy@agingtopic.com to give us your own best experiences of experiencing Awe!
- Grand Canyon, USA: The vastness and stunning geological formations of the Grand Canyon in Arizona can leave visitors in awe. The breathtaking views and the sense of scale offer a humbling experience.
- Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe: Victoria Falls, located on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, is one of the world’s largest waterfalls. Witnessing the powerful cascade of water and feeling the mist can be an awe-inspiring encounter with nature’s forces.
- Machu Picchu, Peru: The ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu, nestled in the Peruvian Andes, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a marvel of architecture and history. Exploring the well-preserved ruins while surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery can evoke a sense of wonder.
- Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights), Various Locations: The Northern Lights, a natural light display in the polar regions, are a mesmerizing sight. Destinations such as Iceland, Norway, and Canada’s Yukon offer opportunities to witness this awe-inspiring phenomenon.
- Taj Mahal, India: The Taj Mahal, an iconic white marble mausoleum in Agra, India, is considered one of the most beautiful architectural wonders in the world. Its intricate details, symmetry, and historical significance can leave visitors in awe.
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: The Serengeti, known for its vast savannahs and incredible wildlife migrations, offers an awe-inspiring experience for nature enthusiasts. Observing herds of animals, including wildebeest, zebras, and lions, in their natural habitat can be an unforgettable experience.
- The Great Barrier Reef, Australia: The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest coral reef system, stretching over 2,300 kilometers (1,400 miles) along the coast of Queensland, Australia. Snorkeling or diving in this vibrant underwater world, witnessing the diverse marine life and colorful coral formations, can be awe-inspiring.
- Yosemite National Park, USA: Yosemite National Park in California is renowned for its granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and ancient sequoia groves. The dramatic landscapes and pristine wilderness offer countless opportunities to experience awe in nature.
Remember, awe can be found in many places around the world. These are just a few examples, and there are countless other destinations and natural wonders that can inspire awe.