Nature, Music and Witnessing Kindness - Boost Wellbeing with the New Science of Awe
By Happiness Editor
One of the world’s leading emotion scientists is on a mission to show how awe can boost your wellbeing.
Whether it’s the beauty of nature, the kindness of a stranger, or the magic of a shared moment with others, awe is all around us – and science shows it can profoundly improve your mental and physical health.
In a fascinating re-release episode of Feel Better, Live More episode 527, Dr. Rangan Chatterjeespeaks with Dr. Dacher Keltner—one of the world’s leading emotion scientists—about how awe can reduce stress, calm inflammation, and even ease physical pain.
Dr. Keltner, author of Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life, reveals that awe isn’t reserved for rare, life-changing experiences.
In fact, there are eight everyday sources of awe, including:
• Nature – The beauty of the outdoors, from sunsets to starlit skies.
• Music – That spine-tingling feeling from a powerful song.
• Moral Beauty – Witnessing acts of kindness or courage.
• Collective Effervescence – Feeling connected with others at concerts, sports events, or even a community walk.
More than just a pleasant feeling, awe can actually rewire your brain. It reduces ego, promotes humility, and activates the vagus nerve—helping you feel calmer and more connected.
If you’re looking to boost your mood and improve your health, start seeking out moments of awe in your daily life—they may be closer than you think.
Listen now: Feel Better, Live More – Episode 527
