Dr. Michael Amster | Mindfulness Researcher | Author | Interventional Pain Management Specialist

Intro:

When was the last time you felt a true sense of awe? Perhaps it was while gazing at a breathtaking landscape, watching a mesmerizing sunset, or savoring a moment of pure wonder. These extraordinary scenes often inspire awe, yet as our guest, Dr. Michael Amster, co-author of The Power of Awe, explains, awe isn’t limited to grand spectacles or rare events. It’s something we can experience every day—in the warmth of sunlight, a kind gesture, or even the intricate details of a simple leaf. And during this podcast, Dr. Amster discusses how awe is accessible to us all and can have dramatically powerful, positive impacts on our lives.

These moments of everyday awe do more than create beautiful memories; they have a profound impact on our mindset, especially when it comes to money. When we allow ourselves to experience awe, we see how "rich" life can be in the truest sense. We begin to rely less on external “things” to make us happy, knowing that they often bring only fleeting satisfaction. Instead, awe-inspired moments lead us to find fulfillment in experiences, connections, and simple joys. In this way, awe shifts us from seeking happiness through material accumulation to cultivating a lasting sense of inner wealth.

BIO:

Michael Amster, MD, is a physician and awe researcher, writer, and teacher at the UC Berkeley Greater Good Science Center. With twenty years as a pain management specialist, he is currently the founding director of the pain management department at Santa Cruz Community Health. A practitioner of meditation for over thirty years, he is also a certified yoga and meditation teacher. He splits his time between clinical work, research on awe, teaching mindfulness, and leading awe-inspiring retreats around the world.

Highlights:

Practicing awe can lead to a more fulfilling life.

Awe connects us to our intuition and self.

Experiencing awe can slow us down and enhance our presence.

Awe can be found in ordinary moments, not just extraordinary ones.

The AWE method is a simple practice to cultivate awe.

Awe has significant psychological and social benefits.

Awe can expand our identity beyond material possessions.

Experiencing awe can change our perception of time.

Awe is contagious and can inspire generosity in others.

Links:

The Power of Awe Book: CLICK HERE

Dr. Michael Amster LinkedIn: CLICK HERE