For those who suffer from chronic pain, depression, or burn-out many physicians turn to pharmaceuticals as treatment. While pharmaceuticals may offer the temporary relief of symptoms, most have unpleasant side effects and never treat the root cause of an illness. Researchers are discovering that mindfulness and meditation practices are important factors in improving physical and mental health for complete wellness. To explore the awe-mazing possibilities of new treatment methods, Positive Psychology Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with author, physician, and awe researcher, Michael Amster about the benefits of micro-dosing mindfulness. Michael’s book, The Power of AWE: Overcoming Burnout & Anxiety, Ease Chronic Pain, Find Clarity & Purpose — In Less Than 1 Minute Per Day, contains a quick and easy method for tapping into awe. Micahel shares his research on the impact of experiencing awe, and details studies that prove that awe is a prosocial emotion that offers mental and physical benefits to those who practice it.
Michael Amster MD — Micro-Dosing Mindfulness:
- The elemental definition of awe. [2:12]
- Michael coined the term Micro-Dosing Mindfulness after a panic attack led him down the path of mindfulness and meditation. [5:14]
- The Power of AWE book includes a 3-step A.W.E. practice and 30 extended practices for experiencing awe daily. [10:38]
- Being in a state of awe offers mental and physical benefits for ourselves and those around us. [15:57]
- In 2020, at the height of the pandemic, the A.W.E. method was proven to decrease depression by 35% in professional healthcare workers. [17:34]
- Michael explains how the A.W.E. method has a profound impact on long-term chronic pain. [19:38]
- Awe connects us to others, makes us feel better, and contributes to the greater good of all life on earth. [22:06]
This episode of Harvesting Happiness Talk Radio is sponsored by:
About Lisa's Guest:
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.
