50 | The Power of Awe: Why Wonder Matters More Than We Think

What happens when we experience awe, and how does it affect our brain, attention, and emotional well-being? Research suggests that moments of awe and wonder can shift our perspective, reduce self-focused thinking, and strengthen our sense of connection to the world around us. In this episode of RenewHer, I share reflections from my recent journey along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in Peru. From challenging mountain hikes and breathtaking landscapes to meaningful cultural experiences and new connections, the adventure became a powerful reminder of the importance of curiosity, gratitude, and wonder. But experiencing awe doesn't require traveling halfway around the world. Discover why awe matters, what research reveals about its psychological benefits, and how we can find more opportunities for wonder in everyday life. WHAT WE’LL DISCUSS ➡️ What awe is and why it matters for our mental and emotional well-being ➡️ How awe influences attention, perspective, and our sense of connection ➡️ The concept of the "small self" and how awe shifts our focus beyond everyday concerns ➡️ Reflections from hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu ➡️ Simple ways to experience more awe and wonder in everyday life KEY TAKEAWAY Awe isn't reserved for extraordinary adventures or once-in-a-lifetime experiences. By staying curious, paying attention, and remaining open to new perspectives, we can create more opportunities for wonder in our everyday lives. ENJOYED THIS EPISODE? If you found this episode helpful: 👍 Like this video 💬 Leave a comment and let me know what resonated with you. 📺 Subscribe for more conversations about brain health, healthy aging, and living with clarity, energy, and purpose. 🔔 Turn on notifications so you never miss a new episode. FOLLOW GENELL LinkedIn:   / genelllemley   Facebook:   / renewherwellness   Instagram:   / renewher.wellness   Website;: https://renewherwellness.com — Sign up for Genell’s newsletter: A weekly dose of actionable tips, brain-boosting strategies, and inspiration to sharpen your focus, boost energy, and reclaim your mental clarity. https://renewherwellness.com/newslett... — Subscribe to Genell’s channel here:    / @renewherwithgenell   — Listen to her RenewHer podcast 🎧 Apple: https://bit.ly/RenewHer-Apple Spotify: https://bit.ly/RenewHer-Spotify Amazon Music: https://bit.ly/RenewHer-AmazonMusic KEYWORDS power of awe, awe and wonder, neuroscience of awe, psychology of awe, benefits of awe, awe and the brain, brain health, emotional well-being, mental well-being, finding wonder, everyday awe, small self, mindfulness, curiosity, women over 50, Machu Picchu, Inca Trail, RenewHer podcast, Genell Lemley