Savoring is the process of converting positive experiences into positive emotions, leading to increased happiness, productivity, and overall enjoyment of life.
Savoring can take various forms such as luxuriating, Thanksgiving, and marveling, which can be deliberately practiced to derive more satisfaction and presence from everyday experiences.
Deep dives
Savoring: The process of converting positive experiences into positive emotions
Savoring is the scientific name for the process of converting positive experiences into positive emotions. It is a skill that can be developed over time, allowing us to fully enjoy and appreciate the positive experiences in our lives. Savoring is different from mindfulness, as it involves reflecting on and ruminating about positive experiences, rather than approaching thoughts with non-judgmental awareness. By practicing savoring, we activate the 'here and now' network in our brain, which leads to increased presence, calmness, and a decreased focus on stimulation and acquisition. Savoring everyday experiences can lead to increased happiness, productivity, and overall enjoyment of life.
The different forms of savoring: Luxuriating, Thanksgiving, and Marveling
Savoring can take various forms, including luxuriating, Thanksgiving, and marveling. Luxuriating involves basking in the glow of an experience and enjoying it deeply. Thanksgiving is the practice of gratitude, which helps train our brains to recognize positive patterns and opportunities. Marveling is experiencing a sense of awe and wonder, whether by looking at nature, the stars, or other awe-inspiring moments. These forms of savoring can be deliberately practiced and integrated into our daily lives, allowing us to derive more satisfaction and presence from everyday experiences.
Savoring and its effects on wealth, gender, and emotional intelligence
Savoring is influenced by various factors, including wealth, gender, and emotional intelligence. Surprisingly, wealthier individuals often struggle more with savoring their lives, possibly due to an acquisition mentality and a lack of scarcity. Women tend to find it easier to savor than men, which may be related to higher emotional intelligence levels. Emotional intelligence plays a role in savoring, as emotionally intelligent individuals are better able to prolong positive emotions associated with experiences. These differences are not absolute and can be improved through deliberate practice and developing the skill of savoring.