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Key points
- An eclipse can trigger a wide range of emotions.
- Studies have shown that witnessing an eclipse can bond you to others.
- If you are feeling anxious, engage in relaxation and breathing exercises to prepare.
Are you excited or anxious about the eclipse approaching on April 8? If you have strong feelings, you aren't alone. Witnessing an eclipse can evoke a range of emotions and have a significant psychological effects on individuals. Here are some ways in which watching an eclipse may influence you emotionally:
Awe and Wonder. Eclipses are awe-inspiring natural phenomena that can elicit a sense of wonder and amazement. The sight of the moon obscuring the sun or the darkening of the sky can evoke powerful emotions. In fact, according to NASA, don't be surprised if you or someone around you is brought to tears. The sight of a rare astrological event is that powerful.
TIP: When you witness an eclipse, take a moment to be mindful. Pause what you are doing and fully immerse yourself in the experience. Observe and take in the grandeur of the event. It's a good opportunity to record the experience with some photos or to journal about how it made you feel. If you feel like crying, that's okay. Grab a tissue and take in the event.
Connection. Eclipses have a unique ability to bring people together. The shared experience of observing an eclipse, whether with friends, family, or even strangers, can foster a sense of connection. According to a recent study in Psychological Science, people who were in an eclipse zone had greater prosocial behaviors and collective qualities than those who were not. In other words, they helped other people and felt more bonded to those around them.
TIP: It's a great conversation piece that can spark meaningful interactions with family, acquaintances, or even strangers. Take the opportunity to talk about the eclipse with others, sharing your observations and listening to their perspectives. It can be a wonderful way to deepen relationships.
Excitement and Anticipation. The anticipation leading up to an eclipse can generate great excitement. People may eagerly prepare for the event, making plans to travel to optimal viewing locations or gathering with others to share in the experience. The build-up can create a heightened emotional state, increasing feelings of excitement and enthusiasm.
TIP: Now is the time to make plans. Identify a location to watch the eclipse and gather the necessary gear, such as safety glasses. Embrace the excitement and savor the anticipation. Or, better yet, plan a pre-eclipse party.
Anxiety. It's important to acknowledge that for some individuals, watching an eclipse can evoke feelings of vulnerability, anxiety, or even panic. Anything out of the ordinary or different can trigger worry, particularly for those with underlying anxiety or depression.
TIP: Practice relaxation and breathing exercises to help reduce anxiety. Remind yourself that you are safe and that this is a natural event. Make plans and decide where you are going to be on the day of the eclipse. Choose a comfortable, quiet place. Alter travel plans so you are not driving during it, which can cause additional anxiety.
The emotional impact of an eclipse can vary from person to person. Some individuals may experience intense emotions, while others may have a more subtle response. Overall, the experience of watching an eclipse can be a powerful emotional event, evoking a range of feelings.
