Awe is more than a fleeting emotion — it is a powerful psychological and neurological experience with tangible benefits for mental health. Experiences of awe, whether through nature, art, music, or shared human connection, can expand perspective, reduce stress, and enhance emotional regulation. Neuroscience research shows that awe activates brain regions associated with reward, empathy, and prosocial behavior, while simultaneously reducing activity in networks linked to self-focused rumination.
Support Groups & Events provide structured, collaborative spaces where clients can explore awe in community, integrate it into therapeutic practice, and strengthen mental resilience. This blog explores the neuroscience of awe, its benefits for mental health, and how group experiences can transform well-being.
What Happens in the Brain During Awe
When a person experiences awe, multiple brain regions are engaged:
- Ventral striatum and orbitofrontal cortex: Linked to reward and motivation
- Default Mode Network (DMN): Reduced activity, associated with less rumination
- Temporal parietal junction: Supports perspective-taking and empathy
Research in Frontiers in Psychology demonstrates that awe can reduce self-focused thoughts and enhance social connectedness. These neurological shifts explain why moments of awe can feel uplifting, inspiring, and even transformative.
The Mental Health Benefits of Awe
Awe is associated with multiple psychological benefits, including:
- Reduced Rumination: Experiencing awe shifts attention outward, breaking cycles of repetitive negative thinking.
- Enhanced Perspective: Awe encourages individuals to view challenges within a broader context, which can reduce anxiety and stress.
- Stronger Social Connection: Sharing awe with others strengthens empathy and prosocial behavior.
- Improved Emotional Regulation: Regular experiences of awe help build resilience, making it easier to navigate everyday stressors.
Even brief experiences — like observing a sunset, listening to moving music, or participating in group art activities — can trigger measurable physiological and cognitive changes, including lower stress hormone levels and increased heart rate variability.
How Group Experiences Amplify Awe
While individual experiences of awe are powerful, sharing awe in a group setting amplifies its benefits. Group settings allow participants to:
- Discuss reflections and insights
- Witness diverse perspectives, broadening their own understanding
- Build social bonds and trust through shared experiences
Integrate awe-based activities in structured, supportive settings. Examples include:
- Guided Nature Walks: Participants explore natural spaces together, reflecting on observations and shared experiences.
- Creative Workshops: Art, music, and movement exercises invite awe and self-expression.
- Mindfulness and Reflection Sessions: Facilitated discussions encourage awareness of emotional responses to awe, connecting experiences to personal growth.
- Community Activities: Collaborative group events that highlight shared human experiences, enhancing social connectedness.
Integrating Awe Into Daily Life
While group sessions provide structured awe experiences, individuals can also cultivate awe in everyday routines:
- Nature Observation: Spend even 5–10 minutes outside noticing details in your environment.
- Art and Music Exposure: Attend cultural events, watch documentaries, or explore visual arts.
- Learning and Curiosity: Study new topics, explore scientific discoveries, or observe complex systems in daily life.
- Shared Experiences: Attend community gatherings or participate in team activities that inspire wonder.
Studies suggest that these practices improve mood, social connectedness, and resilience. (NIH Article)
Awe in Therapy and Group Support
Therapists can help clients intentionally harness awe for mental health benefits. In a therapeutic context, awe-based interventions can:
- Break negative thought cycles
- Increase engagement in social and supportive activities
- Encourage mindfulness and reflective thinking
- Reinforce coping strategies learned in therapy
In group therapy, guided exercises allow clients to experience awe in a safe, supportive environment while processing emotional responses collectively. This combination of structured facilitation and social support strengthens both emotional and cognitive benefits.
Hypothetical Case Example
Consider a client struggling with social anxiety and mild depression. During a structured group art workshop at North Star Therapy, participants are invited to create visual art while reflecting on personal inspirations. Through discussion and observation:
- The client experiences awe through the creativity and expression of others.
- They notice a shift in perspective, recognizing personal strengths and shared human experiences.
- Group reflection reinforces social bonds and encourages empathy.
- Over several sessions, the client reports reduced anxiety, increased motivation to engage socially, and a more optimistic outlook.
This demonstrates how awe-based group interventions can complement therapy, translating neuroscientific insights into real-world mental health benefits.
Awe is a natural, accessible tool with measurable mental health benefits. By intentionally cultivating awe — individually and in groups — people can reduce rumination, improve emotional regulation, expand perspective, and strengthen social connections.
North Star Therapy’s Support Groups & Events provide structured opportunities to explore awe in a therapeutic context, combining science, mindfulness, and social support. Whether through creative workshops, guided experiences, or community participation, clients can harness the power of awe to foster resilience and enhance overall well-being.