I had lunch with my friend and mentor, Dr. John Simmons, the other day, and he brought up something that I have thought a lot about and want to share with you.
We often reflect on great trips we have taken over the summer (or in years past), and they usually involve a location. Going somewhere to see something.
Earlier this year, we made it out west to a few national parks. There were multiple times when we stepped back, stared at mountains, canyons, or rivers, and were simply in “awe.” It was just what we were seeking… “awe.” Dr. Simmons mentioned a similar sensation of “awe” he experienced at Yellowstone and said that it usually brings up a sense of spirituality.
Take a moment and think about what comes to mind if I ask you to recall something that created the emotion of “awe.”
I decided to look into “awe” more, and it is a fascinating emotion. A quick AI search (isn’t that the new Google?) said that “awe” is a complex emotion characterized by a mix of wonder, amazement, and deep respect, often combined with a slight sense of fear or intimidation.
So, you may ask, what does that have to do with the South Carolina Medical Association, medicine, or this magazine? Well, let me try to explain.
Researchers have found that experiencing “awe” can lower stress levels, promote generosity, and improve overall well-being. It makes sense why we choose these awe-inspiring locations for vacations! However, psychologists also suggest that there are different “flavors” of “awe,” depending on what triggers it (which may explain why we use the word “awful” for things that provoke fear). Awe can be an emotion that takes our breath away, for better or worse.
Take medicine as an example. You may marvel at the beauty of a newborn baby and be in awe, or you may receive or deliver a debilitating diagnosis and have your breath taken away for a very different reason.
Research has found that “awe” is not just a momentary feeling; it can have long-term effects on our minds, bodies, and social connections. A fascinating study (Stellar JE, Emotion. 2015 Apr; 15(2): 129-33) even showed that awe reduces inflammatory markers like IL-6.
So, again, you may ask yourself, what does this have to do with physicians in South Carolina? Well, we have many awe-inspiring things happening in our state every day, often in our practices. Capture the ones that are positive experiences (like having an insurance claim approved on the first try!) and consider adding more “awe” to our lives.
From the waterfalls in the rolling hills of the Upstate to the sights of the Atlantic Ocean along our coast, South Carolina offers a varied landscape that can lead to many awe-inspiring day trips. Similarly, we have wonderful culinary differences across the state, from Lowcountry seafood and Midlands barbecue to the peaches and fresh produce of the Upstate. What a beautiful state we have the opportunity to live, work, and play in.
That is what I hope for every reader of this magazine: that you will think of “awe” and experience it at least once per week. It may help with burnout and make us healthier, more generous, and more cooperative… and experiencing awe can be so simple!
Finally, you may ask, how can this be tied to the SCMA? Well, please join… it’s “awe-some!”
