"Wonder emerges as habitual reactions soften-the reflexive "spin" we place on experience. We often close moments prematurely with "I already know what this is," flattening what might otherwise remain alive. When that shortcut loosens, and we linger with experience before it is judged or explained away, freshness becomes possible. Cliché or not, we can learn to meet moments with fresh eyes."
"A Formal Practice: Open Nature Awareness Warm up with a few minutes of breath awareness. Then head out (otherwise, warm up a little at your chosen locale). This can be in motion on a hike or paddle, or a set scene, once you find a safe place to sit and observe. Consider a stump by a creek, a blanket in a field or park."
Wonder is an accessible capacity rooted in how attention is trained rather than in temperament. Mindfulness practices weaken habitual reactions and the reflexive judgment that prematurely closes experience, permitting moments to feel fresh. Cultivating wonder involves pausing, lingering, and meeting ordinary scenes with "fresh eyes" so that everyday sights and sensations can register anew. Both formal and informal practices can be employed, including a formal open-nature awareness: brief breath awareness, moving or sitting in a safe outdoor spot, and slow observation of surroundings. Regular practice restores warmth and connection and gently counters burnout by renewing attention.
Read at Psychology Today
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