The Sunrise Challenge: 'AweTumn'
Welcome to the RISE Awe-tumn Challenge
It’s back by popular demand! This October, we are celebrating the science of awe once more. Psychologist Dacher Keltner describes awe as one of the most powerful human emotions, moments of wonder that lift us out of ourselves, connect us to something larger, and spark gratitude, calm and joy. Research shows that experiencing awe can reduce stress, ease self-focus, and even boost our immune system.
So why now? October in the UK is a season full of natural awe: changing colours, crisp air, dramatic skies, breathtaking light dancing through leaves, and quiet moments of reflection before winter sets in. It is the perfect time to pause, notice, and share beauty in small everyday ways.
How the challenge works:
Introduction:
The Awe-tumn Challenge follows the trusted RISE framework with a special seasonal twist: a daily invitation to pause, capture a photo, and share your moment of awe. By the end of the month, we will create a grid of beauty across Instagram that celebrates connection, nature and joy.
The RISE Pillars:
R - Reflect
1 strength you used today
2 wins from the past 24 hours
3 things you are grateful for
I - Inspiration
30 minutes of self-development content each day
This month’s Badass Book Club pick: Meditations for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman
S - Social Connection
A new pro-social twist: one random act of kindness every day
Reach out, brighten someone’s day, and strengthen community bonds
E - Exercise
20 minutes outdoors every day
Your Awe-tumn Challenge twist: capture a photo that reflects the daily awe prompt and share it
How can positive psychology transform your life?
Schedule a free 10-minute discovery call to explore what would work best for you or your organisation.