The Power of Awe: Introducing the Scientifically Proven A.W.E. Method

Psychotherapist Eagle (Reright Your Life) and pain management specialist Amster lay out a plan to harness awe to heal the mind and body in this enlightening treatise. While many have experienced awe in special moments—witnessing the beauty of nature, for example, or holding an infant for the first time—awe, the authors suggest, can be a part of everyday life and offers physical and emotional benefits. To that end, Eagle and Amster propose their “A.W.E.” method (“attention,” “wait,” and “exhale/expand”) a 5–15 second meditation practice that involves focusing on an object of appreciation (be it a physical thing or thought); slowing down and inhaling; and exhaling, leaning into the sensation. Even a few seconds of mindful appreciation, the authors suggest, derails the body’s stress response, moving it into “rest and digest” mode. Eagle and Amster draw on their own research to show how, after practicing their method, participants reported a reduction of negative mental and physical symptoms. This convincing appraisal of awe’s many possibilities helps frame mindfulness in a fascinating and eminently actionable way. Wellness gurus and those merely seeking a break from frenetic daily life will want to take a look. (Jan.)