Awe is a profound feeling of reverence, admiration, and wonder mixed with a touch of fear. It often arises when we encounter something vast, powerful, or sublime that challenges our understanding. Awe can be both exhilarating and humbling, making us feel small yet connected to something greater. According to Plutchik's wheel of emotions, awe is a combination of surprise and fear, reflecting its dual nature of being both startling and reverent. While the Geneva Emotion Wheel doesn't specifically map awe, it shares qualities with wonder and admiration. Awe can be triggered by natural wonders like the Grand Canyon, or by human achievements such as great works of art or scientific discoveries.

Using Inner

Using Inner, you can track patterns of when and where awe arises. Notice the physical sensations in your body, such as a tingling spine or widened eyes. Journal about what triggers these feelings and how they affect your mood and perspective. Over time, you might find that cultivating awe helps reduce stress and increases your sense of connection to the world around you.

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Common Triggers

→Natural wonders like waterfalls or canyons
→Artistic performances such as concerts or theater
→Scientific discoveries and space exploration
→Spiritual experiences in sacred places
→Encounters with historical or cultural landmarks
→Moments of personal achievement that feel larger than life

Physical Sensations

•Increased heart rate
•Goosebumps
•Wide eyes
•Open mouth
•Tingling spine
•Caught breath

Working with This Emotion

Recognize

Awe often manifests as a sudden, intense feeling that can leave you speechless. You might feel your heart rate increase, your breath catch, or a sense of goosebumps. Facial expressions include wide eyes and an open mouth. Words like 'amazed,' 'dumbfounded,' and 'flabbergasted' capture the essence of awe.

Understand

Awe is commonly triggered by encounters with vastness, power, or beauty that challenge our existing frameworks. This can include natural phenomena, artistic masterpieces, scientific discoveries, or spiritual experiences. Understanding what specifically evokes awe in you can help you seek out more of these moments.

Label

To label awe accurately, consider the unique blend of reverence and wonder mixed with a touch of fear. It is different from simple surprise, which lacks the deep respect and admiration. Awe also differs from joy, which is more purely positive without the element of being overwhelmed.

Express

Healthy ways to express awe include sharing your experiences with others, creating art or writing inspired by what you've seen, or simply taking a moment to reflect on the profound impact it has had on you. Engaging in activities that foster a sense of wonder can also help maintain this emotion.

Regulate

If awe feels overwhelming, try grounding techniques like deep breathing or focusing on your immediate surroundings. You can also balance intense feelings by engaging in more routine activities that bring a sense of normalcy and control. Over time, you might find that the intensity of awe diminishes, allowing you to appreciate it without feeling overwhelmed.

Practical Examples