Beauty

When was the last time you experienced beauty? Perhaps it took your breath away. Perhaps time stood still and your mind stopped its habitual thought loops. It was perhaps as if you were transported into another realm. And when you returned, you felt nourished, recharged, grounded, and centered. Life was full of exciting possibilities. And you were feeling connected, inspired, and empowered.

Such dramatic moments of beauty happen to many of us occasionally. Perhaps a stunning sunset, a giant full-moon rise, or the vastness of the night sky. And how can we microdose on beauty that is always and already around us? The play of light and shadow on your friend’s face, the curved shape of an armrest, or the kaleidoscope of colors on your lunch plate. How can we open our eyes and hearts to notice and appreciate those brief moments of beauty, and let them nourish our soul?

Science shows the many benefits of noticing and appreciating beauty: its effect on our immune system, nervous system, and creativity. Even small, unexpected moments of beauty can spark optimism, insight, and emotional clarity. As Blaise Pascal reminds us, "In difficult times, carry something beautiful in your heart."

Join us at our upcoming Awakening SI gathering where we will practice opening, noticing, and taking in the beauty that is always around and within us. The latter—the beauty within—is often the hardest to notice and appreciate.