The Power of Awe

Instantly Access Calmness & Connection

One of the things that gets in the way of self-confidence and social connection is the inner voice of doubt and disconnection.

Doubt pops up when you start questioning your decisions, abilities and the possibility you can achieve your dreams.

Disconnection arises as a thought that somehow you're different to others.  There's something about you that makes you flawed or broken. 

If you can relate, one of the ways you might tackle this is to notice these thoughts and then shift your inner dialogue to something more positive and useful.  

There are various ways to do this and one of these I teach in the Self-Talk Mastery coaching program - the idea of swapping out the inner critics for the more elevating and uplifting inner companions.

Work with your body as well as your mind

Self-talk strategies are a useful starting point toward positive change and it's also helpful to further build on these by working with the feelings in your body. 

This provides a double whammy approach toward transformation.

For example, if you can find ways to put your body into a regular state of calmness, this will automatically support your mind to shift from those unhelpful thoughts of doubt and disconnection toward more helpful thoughts of belief and worthiness of social connection.

You're probably aware of different ways you can do this.  Activities like regular exercise, yoga, meditation, breathwork and listening to soothing music all help. 

However another tool you can add to your self-confidence tool box, and one you can access readily, is to put yourself into a state of awe.

Leverage the power of awe

Being in awe, that is, experiencing a feeling of amazement and wonder, floods your body with oxytocin - a hormone that increases feelings of happiness and warmth.

It also reduces stress and anxiety, putting you into a state of calmness, while supporting pro-social behaviour - you feel more connected to others and to the environment around you.

Awe is a double whammy state.  It automatically means you've let go of any tortuous thoughts in your head, and your body is experiencing a greater sense of calmness and openness.

Try it out. Find something that amazes you.

Tap into the feeling of awe

Look up at the branches of a towering tree, lie on the grass and marvel at the clouds, lose yourself in the beauty of a flower or the fluttering sound of the wings of an insect.

Visit a museum, a theatre or an incredibly crafted building. Stop and listen to a busker.

Use awe as an access point to calmness.  Do it regularly and this practise will help you let go of any unhelpful thoughts that keep you in doubt and disconnection, and support your mind and body to shift toward greater self-confidence and social connection.

I'd love to hear about your awesome experiences.