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Wonder broadens our horizons
Psychologists define awe as the feeling we get when we come across something so strikingly vast in number, scope, or complexity that it alters the way we understand the world.
Wonder is associated with better health
Based on their physiological makeup, people who experience feelings of wonder and wonder seem to be at lower risk for depression, heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Wonder makes us feel less rushed
When we’re in the presence of something tremendous—like a whale or a waterfall—we feel like we have more time and are less impatient, which makes us more willing to volunteer our time to help others.
Wonder makes us happier
When people experience a sense of wonder, they report feeling more satisfied with their lives.
Wonder makes us feel like we’re part of something bigger than the self
When we’re in the presence of something wonder-inspiring, we put less emphasis on our ego and feel connected to a greater whole.
Wonder increases kindness
After looking up at an impressive eucalyptus grove, people were more helpful to someone in need and felt less entitled to a reward.
For more on the science of wonder, visit the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley.
Here are 3 exercises, provided by UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center, to help you with wonder right now.
