1KHO 386: We are Surrounded by Miracles | Jonah Paquette, Awestruck
Nov 27, 2024
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Jonah Paquette, a licensed clinical psychologist and author of "Awestruck", dives into the transformative power of awe in our lives. He discusses how modern life can lead to "awe deprivation" and shares practical tips to foster curiosity and gratitude, especially in children. The conversation emphasizes the mental health benefits of reconnecting with nature and how experiences of awe can change our perception of time. Jonah encourages embracing small, everyday moments of wonder to enhance well-being and connection.
The podcast emphasizes the life-changing benefits of experiencing awe, which fosters deeper connections with ourselves, nature, and others.
Listeners are encouraged to combat modern 'awe deprivation' by intentionally seeking everyday wonders, enhancing their overall well-being and mindset.
Curiosity, sparked by awe, promotes deeper exploration and appreciation of the world, crucial for fostering a love of learning, especially in children.
Deep dives
The Power of Coaching
Coaching can provide individuals with clarity in their lives, helping them to identify their true priorities and passions. A personal coach works collaboratively with clients to uncover their values, allowing for a deeper understanding of what truly matters to them. This newfound clarity then facilitates the setting of actionable goals tailored to the client's unique aspirations, paving the way for progress and achievement. By establishing specific objectives rooted in individual values, individuals can begin to articulate and pursue their dreams more effectively.
Understanding Awe
Awe is defined as an emotion that arises when encountering something greater than oneself, leading to feelings of vastness and transcendence. It encompasses moments that inspire goosebumps and a sense of being alive, whether through a breathtaking landscape or a profound life event. Researchers note that awe can significantly enhance our well-being by fostering connections with the universe and others, while also providing respite from feelings of isolation. This emotion has become increasingly scarce in modern life, largely due to the prevalence of screen use, which detracts from experiences that elicit awe.
Benefits of Awe Deprivation
Experiencing awe is linked to a range of psychological and physical benefits, which are often missed when individuals are awe-deprived. A lack of awe can contribute to feelings of disconnection, increased rumination, and even mental health issues like anxiety and depression. By cultivating experiences of awe, individuals may counteract feelings of isolation and reconnect with the natural world and their communities. This emotional engagement is essential in navigating the complexities of modern life and combatting prevalent feelings of loneliness.
Inducing Awe in Daily Life
Awe can be intentionally induced through simple practices that allow individuals to appreciate the wonders of life surrounding them. Everyday occurrences, such as the changing colors of leaves, advancements in technology, or the marvels of human feats, can evoke a sense of awe if one takes the time to notice and reflect on them. By intentionally seeking out experiences that inspire awe, people can foster a mindset enriched with gratitude and connection. This approach encourages a shift from seeing the mundane to recognizing the miraculous aspects of daily life.
Awe and Curiosity
Awe often sparks curiosity, encouraging individuals to explore the world around them in greater depth. When someone experiences awe, it can lead to questions about the subject at hand, prompting a desire to learn more and engage with their surroundings. Connecting awe to curiosity creates a beneficial cycle, where deeper exploration can lead to even more awe-inspiring moments. This relationship highlights the importance of nurturing curiosity, particularly in children, as it enriches their learning journeys and fosters a lifelong appreciation for discovery.
In this thought-provoking episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, Ginny Yurich welcomes Jonah Paquette, licensed clinical psychologist and author of Awestruck: How Embracing Wonder Can Make You Happier, Healthier, and More Connected. Together, they explore the science and transformative power of awe—those goosebump moments that make us feel small yet deeply connected to something bigger.
Jonah unpacks the modern epidemic of "awe deprivation," explains how small, intentional changes can unlock wonder in everyday life, and offers practical tips for fostering curiosity and gratitude in ourselves and our children. From the healing power of nature to the profound connection between awe and time perception, this episode invites you to reimagine how wonder can enrich your family, your mindset, and your world.
Discover why awe is more accessible than you think—and why embracing it might just be the antidote to modern stress and disconnection.