Being exploratory in finding ways to experience collective effervescence can lead to a sense of unity among individuals, satisfying their human desire to belong. This unity not only benefits individuals but also society at large by fostering connections in a world where traditional avenues of connection have diminished.
Dr. Shira Gabriel is a psychologist who studies the science of human connection. In recent years she’s turned her attention to collective effervescence, a feeling we get when we experience something transcendent with other people. If you've ever been to a concert or a political rally, you've probably felt this type of awe. Shira explains the many mental health benefits of collective effervescence and why it's easier to seek out than you might think (spoiler alert: you can still experience it even if you don't like big crowds!)
If you enjoyed this episode, you might also like our recent interviews with Dacher Keltner and Min Kym.
For a behind-the-scenes look at the show, follow @DrMayaShankar on Instagram.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.