I went for an early early run this morning and caught the sun coming up in about a zillion colours. The birds were going bananas, trying to out-tweet each other, and I was managing to climb this hill without wheezing so hard I woke the snoozing owls.
Amazing. I live for moments like these – they absolutely make my day, my week, my life.
I want aliveness, full connection, absolute absorption in the moment I find myself in. And putting myself in the way of awe seems to be a fast track to more Life. I never like waking up that early, but I do like what it gives me.
How about you?
Gratitude and awe seem to be on a parallel.
You know the good and the beautiful and the wonderful – whether that’s in nature or science or engineering or music or a meal or a magician or doing a hard thing or your connection with another … gratitude follows, and is contagious. When you’re in that zone, everything is more thankful.
These moments elevate you above the humdrum, don’t they? They do you the world of good.
But you have to seek them out, rather than stay in the busy cycle. You have to make sure you’re there to appreciate them.
“Being there” is twofold – the first is making sure you save part of your day for your awesome things, places and people; the second is getting out of your past/future head and into the moment in front of you.
Choosing to stop and be grateful and aware in any given moment is crucial. Even if you’re doing your awesome thing, it doesn’t amount to anything if you’re not there to appreciate its majesty, does it?
It only takes a heartbeat or two, but that pause to be present is significant. It makes the moment significant – whatever the circumstances, whatever it contains.
One of my favourite things before learning the Ishayas’ Ascension (and it still is, actually) – was doing the dishes.
The humble kitchen job … but it was a chance for me to stop, to create a little order in the mayhem and busyness of my life, to gaze out the window and sink my hands into warm water, to appreciate the rainbow sheen on the soap bubbles.
A drudgery or a treat? All is the way you show up, innit?
So, for what it’s worth, try and remember that this week. Make more with your simple choice.
Ideas for Finding More Awe
Here are some thoughts on where you might find those incredible, day-making moments this week:
Nature's Vastness:
Get out there and really see the natural world around you. Don't just walk through it; immerse yourself. Take in the sheer scale of the sky, the tiny, perfect details of a leaf, or the raw power of a crashing wave. Maybe it's time for a bit of an adventure – a different path, a new place to explore, or just a fresh attitude when you step outside. What could you discover if you truly looked?
Human Awesomeness and Connection:
Keep an eye out for those moments that truly showcase the best of us. It could be a simple act of kindness you witness, a display of incredible courage, or someone demonstrating remarkable skill in their craft. Go to a performance that moves you, marvel at someone's artistry, or share a genuine moment with another person. These connections often spark something truly special within us.
The Magic of Art and Ideas:
Dive into the world of art, music, or literature that stirs your soul. Seek out new ideas, different perspectives, anything that really challenges the way you see things. What if you approached everything with a beginner's mind, as if you truly didn't know? What if every person you met, every moment you experienced, could teach you something?
Everyday Wonders:
This one's about really waking up to the small wonders that are already all around us, often hiding in plain sight. It's those easily overlooked moments of beauty – the kind that make you stop and just be. Think about the rainbow shimmer in your washing-up bubbles, or (perfect for a British summer) the patterns made by raindrops hitting a puddle. It could even be simply savouring the quality of a deep, slow breath. These little pauses are truly magnificent, when you’re there for them.
Give whatever deeper engagement with the moment floats your boat a shot and, if you like, let me know what you find.
Talk soon.
Go well!
Arjuna
PS.
Ascension is the thing that really made awe pop for me – after practicing it seems like I don’t have to choose for it, awe chooses me.
Such a simple practice, based on appreciation, gratitude, love, and compassion, it just brings the best version of you forward.
Come and learn, it really will elevate your game.
And there’s plenty of time to plan ahead!
Here's what's coming up:
+++ Ascension Courses +++
— October 17-19 and November 21-23, 2025 (already learned? You can repeat for free!)
— 5-Day Retreat (September 24-28): For those who've taken a course and want to really go deeper, quicker. Experience profound engagement, meaning, peace and presence in a stunning setting.
There are limited places.
Want to know more or ready to book?
Drop me a line and let me know what you're looking for – I can help you find it.