Could 'awe therapy' make us nicer?

Moments that make us feel small — like gazing out over the Grand Canyon or glimpsing the northern lights — can do a world of good for our mental health

South Rim of Grand Canyon
(Image credit: Tom Bean/CORBIS)

A breathtaking view could be just what the doctor ordered. A new study from Stanford University finds that an awe-inspiring experience — or a moment that overwhelms to the point that time seems to stand still — can improve our mental state and make us nicer people overall. What exactly is "awe therapy," and why are perfectly reasonable researchers lending the concept credence? Here, a concise guide:

What kind of experiences are we talking about?

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