A balanced mind: Awe fosters equanimity via temporal distancing

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Social Psychology
• Well-being Science

Background:

• Awe is recognized for enhancing well-being through various psychological mechanisms.
• Existing research highlights awe's positive impact, but the precise pathways remain under exploration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the novel perspective that awe fosters equanimity, a balanced mental state.
• To elucidate the mediating role of temporal distancing in awe-induced equanimity and well-being.

Main Methods:

• Seven studies were conducted, employing experiments, big data analytics, and intervention methods.
• Equanimity was measured via self-report, emotional reactivity, and behavioral approach.
• Temporal distancing as a mediator was examined across diverse contexts, including social media data.

Main Results:

• Induced awe consistently increased equanimity, reducing emotional reactivity and promoting unbiased responses.
• Awe's effect on equanimity was mediated by temporal distancing, a finding robust across cultures and beyond self-diminishment.
• A 5-day awe intervention significantly improved psychological and physical well-being, with equanimity as the key factor.

Conclusions:

• Awe cultivates equanimity by altering an individual's temporal perspective on life experiences.
• This research provides a new framework for understanding how awe contributes to overall well-being.
• The findings underscore the potential of awe-based interventions for enhancing mental and physical health.