This month I’m recommending a simple technique called the A.W.E. method because it’s easy to do, research-based, and supports having a clearer mind and calmer nervous system. And given how chaotic and stressful everyday life can be, the A.W.E. tool is a great resource for improved overall health and well-being!
Research suggests A.W.E. Method:
- Encourages curiosity
- Inspires energy, especially when experienced in nature
- Quiets the mind’s “monkey chatter”
- Calms the nervous system
- Reduces inflammation
- Makes you more open-minded and less rigid in your thinking
- Leaves you feeling more present and patient
- Leads you to be more friendly, humble, and connected to others
- Improves life satisfaction
- Makes you less materialistic and more generous
- Increases spirituality as you experience being part of something larger than the self
- Diminishes your sense of self so that you are less self-absorbed
The A.W.E. method is based on research by Jake Eagle and Dr. Michael Amster and described in their book, The Power of AWE: Overcome Burnout & Anxiety, Ease Chronic Pain, Find Clarity & Purpose – In Less than 1 Minute Per Day.
This simple three-step A.W.E. practice takes 10 to 20 seconds per cycle (what the authors call a microdose) and offers an immediate reward. The good news is that the more you practice A.W.E., the more benefits you derive. And what I love about the technique is that you don’t need to go anywhere special to access A.W.E. because this positive emotion can be found in everyday ordinary moments throughout your day – at home, at work, on a walk around the block, or even in line at the grocery store. And in order to receive the full benefits, the authors recommend practicing the A.W.E. method three times during your day.
The A.W.E. Method: How to Practice!
- A: Attention means placing your full attention on something that you appreciate, value, or find amazing. For example, it could be focusing on an object (flowers are my favorite!), a joyful memory, or a sweet moment with a friend, child, or pet.
- W: Wait means slowing down, taking a deep inhalation, and amplifying the amount of attention you’re placing on whatever you’ve decided to appreciate, value, or find amazing.
- E: Exhale means making a slightly longer exhalation than normal. This step activates the rest and digest (parasympathetic) system so that you feel more relaxed and at ease. The end result is feeling more present, clear, and emotionally regulated.
A Deeper Dive Into A.W.E.
- Click here to access the Power of AWE website.
- Click here to learn more about the book The Power of AWE: Overcome Burnout & Anxiety, Ease Chronic Pain, Find Clarity & Purpose – In Less than 1 Minute Per Day by Jake Eagle, LPC and Michael Amster, MD.
- Click here to listen to How to Meditate If You Have No Time to Meditate | Jake Eagle and Michael Amster (Co-Interviewed by Dan’s Wife, Bianca!) on Ten Percent Happier with Dan Harris (77 minutes).