Admiration

I celebrate the beauty and strength in myself and others, knowing that admiration leads to inspiration

WHAT IS ADMIRATION?

A feeling of respect and warm approval towards someone or something.

Synonyms: Appreciation, Adoration.

Antonym: Criticism

“Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners
who make our souls blossom.”
Marcel Proust

HOW TO RECOGNIZE ADMIRATION IN OTHERS
AND ONESELF

HOW TO RECOGNIZE 
IN OTHERS

Body Language

Open posture, leaning slightly forward,
attentive gaze

Facial Expressions

Raised eyebrows, slight smile,
relaxed eyes

HOW TO RECOGNIZE 
IN ONESELF

In the Body

Warm sensation in the chest,
relaxed shoulders

In the Mind

Feelings of appreciation, thoughts
of awe or respect

HOW TO RECOGNIZE ADMIRATION IN OTHERS
AND ONESELF

HOW TO RECOGNIZE 
IN OTHERS

HOW TO RECOGNIZE 
IN ONESELF

Body Language

Open posture, leaning slightly forward,
attentive gaze

In the Body

Warm sensation in the chest,
relaxed shoulders

Facial Expressions

Raised eyebrows, slight smile,
relaxed eyes

In the Mind

Feelings of appreciation, thoughts
of awe or respect

Who is someone you deeply admire, and what qualities
do they have that you'd like to develop in yourself?

TIPS AND TRICKS ON HOW TO DEAL WITH THIS
EMOTION

Practice Camel Pose (Ustrasana) to open the chest and heart, symbolizing the appreciation of beauty and connection to others. Focus on inhaling deeply to expand the heart space.
Write down three things you admire about someone or something, describing why they inspire you. Reflect on how their qualities align with your values.
Visualize a person or thing you deeply admire. Picture their positive traits as a golden light that inspires and uplifts you.
Attend a sound bath session or use singing bowls to create a calming environment. Reflect on the beauty and harmony the sounds evoke, fostering admiration.
Create an artwork inspired by someone or something you admire. Use colors, shapes, or textures that represent their qualities and reflect on the process.
Share a genuine compliment with someone, focusing on what you admire about them. Observe their reaction and reflect on how expressing admiration strengthens your connection.

CURIOUS FACTS ABOUT ADMIRATION

ANIMALS ASSOCIATED WITH ADMIRATION

Different animals are associated with different emotions in different cultures. Flip the coins to found out more:

How do I respond when others admire me, and what does
that reveal about my relationship with self-worth?

Admiration inspires learning, motivation, and personal growth. It fosters positive relationships, encourages emulation of desirable traits, and reinforces social bonds. Recognizing and expressing admiration strengthens connections and enhances well-being by shifting focus to strengths in oneself and others.

Research suggests that the 'eyes' on peacock tail feathers evolved to captivate both peahens and potential rivals, triggering admiration and respect.

The vibrant blue and green colors of a peacock’s feathers come from microscopic crystal-like structures that reflect light, not pigments.

Admiration activates the ventral striatum and the anterior cingulate cortex—regions linked to motivation and reward—helping us feel inspired to achieve our goals.

According to legend, the goddess Hera placed the 100 eyes of the giant Argus onto the peacock’s feathers, reinforcing its timeless connection to admiration and watchful beauty.

Peacock

Hindu and Greek mythology

The peacock is a prime symbol of beauty and admiration in Hindu culture, associated with grace, divine connection, and self-expression. In Greek mythology, it is linked to Hera, admired for its magnificent plumage that symbolizes awareness and beauty.

Crane

Japanese and Chinese folklore

The crane is revered in Japanese and Chinese mythology as a symbol of longevity, wisdom, and grace. Its elegant movements and noble presence inspire admiration and are often associated with good fortune and immortality.

Hummingbird

Native American and Andean beliefs

The hummingbird is admired in Native American and Andean traditions for its resilience, speed, and beauty. Often seen as a messenger of joy and positivity, it inspires admiration for its endurance, agility, and connection to the spirit world.

Stag

Norse and Celtic mythology

The stag represents strength, nobility, and leadership in Norse and Celtic traditions. Its majestic antlers and regal stance evoke admiration, symbolizing spiritual guidance, renewal, and the pursuit of higher ideals.