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Awe - Dacher Keltner - Neuroscience

Apr 23, 2024
Neuroscientist Dacher Keltner explores the neuroscience of awe, discussing its impact on well-being, community, and nature. He touches on the transformative power of awe, the evolutionary role of emotions like sadness, and cultivating awe in daily life. The podcast also delves into the profound bond between humans and nature, promoting a sense of unity with the ecosystem and encouraging shared peak experiences for lasting effects.
57:45

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Experiencing awe deactivates the default mode network in the brain, shifting focus from self to openness towards others.
  • Increasing opportunities for children to experience awe in nature enhances wonder, curiosity, and societal connection.

Deep dives

Physiological and Psychological Effects of Awe

Experiencing awe deactivates the default mode network in the brain, diminishing self-focused thoughts. Awe triggers tearfulness, indicating a parasympathetic response opposing fight-or-flight instincts. Increased vagal tone and release of oxytocin occur during awe, promoting connectivity with others and reducing inflammation. Awe shifts focus from the self to openness towards others, promoting wonder and connection to the world.

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