Episode 9

Author and Educator Val Walker joins Anxiety Unraveled Podcast Host Mike Maddox to discuss the restorative power in finding awe and wonder.

Anxiety can keep our minds in a worried state with spinning thoughts and concerns. When we experience a moment of awe and wonder, we have the ability to “snap out of it” and create new neural pathways in our brain.

“That’s what awe does; it brings you out of your head and into the world right there. All of the sudden, you are part of something. You are not inside your head. You are suddenly part of this bigger, wider world out there,” Val says.

Perhaps you can remember a moment when time stood still. Maybe it was witnessing a breathtaking sunset, receiving a visit from a wild animal, staring into the vastness of the ocean, or viewing an impressive piece of art. Awe and wonder, Val says, are unique to each person. Moments of awe and wonder might be happening around us, and we aren’t even aware of it.

In this episode of Anxiety Unraveled, Mike and Val discuss the neuroscience behind these emotions, and how seeking more of these moments can change brain chemistry and reduce anxiety.

About our Podcast Guest:

Val Walker is an educator, former rehabilitation counselor, author of three books, a Nautilus Gold Book Award Winner, and blogger for Psychology Today. Her book Healing Through Wonder: How Awe Restores Us After Trauma and Loss, is available at booksellers online, and as an audiobook (Audible). Learn more at Val Walker or Healing Through Wonder.

Learn how awe and wonder can change the way you feel; watch or listen: