Find Awe and Wonder

Have you ever watched a young child explore the room around them? They lead with curiosity, taking in as much information as they can. Many times the thing that fascinates them the most is a simple, ordinary object like a box or a remote. They study the object from every angle and begin to play with it. Suddenly, the box becomes more than just a box. It's an endless world of possibilities. It can be a spaceship, then a car, then a house. The child is in awe, smiling and laughing as they continue to interact with the object. And even as we grow up, awe is an emotion we all have access to. Research has found that experiencing awe on a daily basis can lift our moods and it can bring out more gratitude, humility, and generosity. Right now, with all that is going on in the world, it might seem challenging to find ways to experience awe. So, today, we are going to practice tapping into our own inner child. We're going to lead with curiosity and wonder to explore the space around you, because even seemingly mundane objects can inspire awe. We just need to take the time to pause and see them in a new way. Let's begin. Find a comfortable position. You can be sitting or even standing. For today's meditation, we're going to keep our eyes open with a soft gaze. Notice the parts of your body that are being supported by another surface. Your feet grounded on the floor, or your sit bones on the chair. Now, become aware of your breath. Focus on both the inhale and the exhale. Inhale. And exhale. I'll give you a moment. Nice work. Gently let your eyes scan the space around you and find an object to rest your eyes on. Maybe it's a plant, or a picture, or a book. When you find your object, begin to explore it. What color is it? What shape is it? What texture does it have? Now, let's bring in your childlike sense of wonder. Imagine if this object suddenly transformed into something new. What would it do? How would it move? If it could talk, what would it say to you? As you continue to explore the object on your own, lead with your childlike curiosity and wonder. Be playful. Have fun as you see this old object turn into something new and awe-inspiring. Remember the child who transforms the box into an endless world of possibilities. I'll give you some time. Great job. Savor this new perspective you found and allow the wonder and awe of this new object to fill your body and bring a smile to your face. Let's take a few final deep breaths together, in and out. And if you can, bring your hands to your heart's center. Repeat this after me out loud or in your head. I am in awe of the world around me. I am in awe of the...