During a vibrant annual ritual in San Pedro Manrique, Spain, residents faced a dramatic challenge as they walked barefoot across a bed of glowing coals, cheered on by thousands of enthusiastic spectators. This event, held every June, not only showcases individual courage but also fosters a profound sense of community and shared joy among participants and onlookers alike.
According to Dimitris Xygalatas, a cognitive anthropologist at the University of Connecticut, the phenomenon observed during this fire-walking ritual is a prime example of what he terms “collective effervescence.” This feeling, described in his book “Rituals: How Seemingly Senseless Acts Make Life Worth Living,” arises when people engage in meaningful activities that evoke strong positive emotions.
Understanding Collective Joy
The concept of “we mode,” recently popularized by health psychologist Kelly McGonigal of Stanford University, aligns closely with collective effervescence. McGonigal emphasizes that such shared experiences can enhance one’s quality of life. “When you are connected through shared positive emotion,” she explains, “expressions often act as this aerosolized joy, where you catch other people’s smiles, laughter, their physical expressions. It becomes contagious.”
Rooted in sociological theory, the idea of collective joy was first documented by French sociologist Emile Durkheim, who studied aboriginal Australian societies over a century ago. Xygalatas has further explored this through various group activities, measuring physiological responses during these moments. His research reveals that participants’ heart rates synchronize during exhilarating events, such as attending live sports games, while those watching from home do not experience the same effect.
In addition to heart rhythm synchronization, attendees at live events show increased levels of endorphins, a hormone linked to bonding and social connection. “If we all dress alike and we move alike and we feel alike, we express the same emotions that trigger mechanisms in our brain,” Xygalatas notes. This synchronization appears to be essential for fostering psychological well-being.
Activities that Foster ‘We Mode’
To intentionally cultivate this “we mode,” McGonigal suggests engaging in activities that meet specific criteria. First, these activities should be in person. During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals struggled to recreate the same positive interactions online, highlighting the importance of physical presence.
Moreover, participating in activities that involve movement and noise—such as cheering, dancing, or singing—can significantly enhance the experience of collective joy. McGonigal points out that dancing with others is far more effective in creating a sense of togetherness than passively watching a performance. “You’ve got to do the wave at the sporting event,” she advises. “If you’re at a group exercise class, and your instructor is like, ‘Can I get a whoop, whoop?’ You gotta whoop, whoop.”
Letting go of self-consciousness is also crucial for experiencing collective joy. Those who actively participate are more likely to feel its effects than passive observers. By embracing the moment and engaging fully, individuals can enhance their connection with others and tap into the uplifting energy of shared experiences.
The ritual in San Pedro Manrique exemplifies this collective spirit, showcasing how communal activities can significantly impact psychological health and foster a sense of belonging. As more people seek meaningful connections in an increasingly fragmented world, understanding and embracing the power of “we mode” may offer a pathway to greater joy and fulfillment.
