The feeling of “kama muta” is a newly named emotion that psychologists are increasingly interested in. It is a profound sense of connection that is often triggered by intense moments in our relationships with family, friends, and the community. By actively seeking out experiences that evoke this emotion, one can enhance their social connections and infuse their life with greater meaning.
This article is part of a series on easy changes you can make for better health in the new year.
Read the rest here
Research on “kama muta” started in 2012 when anthropologist Alan Fiske and his colleagues noticed people’s emotional reactions to positive events. This led to the identification of specific characteristics associated with the emotion, including physical sensations like teary eyes, goosebumps, and warmth in the chest, often triggered by an intensification of social relationships.
The feeling of “kama muta” can arise in various contexts, such as parent-child interactions, romantic reunions, or shared experiences among friends. It can also be experienced during religious practices, communal events, or even while watching heartwarming videos.
The term “kama muta,” borrowed from Sanskrit, translates to “being moved by love.” It is believed to have evolved to strengthen social bonds and ensure care for loved ones, contributing to overall well-being and human survival.
How to seek out kama muta
Empathy allows individuals to experience “kama muta” vicariously, even across cultures, by watching videos or engaging in meaningful conversations. Studies have shown that moments of intense connection are more likely to trigger this emotion, leading to increased motivation to build and maintain relationships.
Concerts, music, cute cat videos, or simply listening attentively to others can evoke the feeling of “kama muta.” Individuals with higher levels of empathic concern are more prone to experiencing this emotion, but it can be cultivated by actively engaging in empathetic interactions.
Studies have demonstrated that quality listening and acceptance in conversations can lead to feelings of love igniting, fostering meaningful connections and triggering “kama muta.” Cultivating this emotion can transform one’s self-perception and enhance social relationships.
Like all emotions, “kama muta” has various elements, including physical sensations, mental interpretations, and a motivation to act in a certain way. Researchers use the Kama Muta Multiplex Scale to measure people’s experiences of this emotion.
Try out our quiz inspired by the research, by watching a video of a kitten, looking at photos of loved ones, or having a meaningful conversation. Rate your responses to various aspects of the emotion to determine the strength of your experience of “kama muta.”
