The dictionary definition for awe is "a feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder." Many people can see beautiful things, but does it make them feel in awe with their surroundings? All individuals get this feeling when we encounter something that feels bigger than life. It makes us think and feel things we generally don't. Cytokines are waves of chemicals that kill germs. According to a study, researchers say feeling in awe might make an individual feel healthier by reducing cytokines.

The first time I felt in awe with my surroundings was at a place called Montana de Oro. It's cold crisp air and the noises of waves crashing against the rocks beneath me. I remember sitting on a bench and watching the vast ocean of dark blue water moving as if it was dancing, and the wind was directing it. I felt small compared to everything around me, which is something I enjoyed. It took my attention off myself and onto something beautiful.

A way I escape from feeling anxious or depressed is feeling in awe. It happens in the weirdest ways. For example, meeting a newborn for the first time or even learning about the human body. It leaves me in awe that our heart can make us feel emotions and that the brain can retain so many memories.

Anxiety is something I deal with everyday.  When I go to a place like Montana de Oro, it makes me feel at ease. Dr. Gregory Walton created something called the belonging intervention. We as humans need to see that we are not alone, and we should not blame painful experiences on ourselves because other people have experienced the same. We all get caught up in ourselves sometimes, and we don't think about what others have gone through.  

When I go to a place like Montana de Oro it leaves me speechless. My inner voice is quiet, and all my senses are trying to perceive the things around me. Just like no individual is the same, everyone feels awe in distinct ways,  and we should all experience this more.