Glimmers

I’ve been reading up lately on the topic of glimmers and honestly I find the subject fascinating.

Glimmers are the opposite of triggers. The concept of glimmers was coined by Deb Dana, LCSW, clinician, consultant, author and speaker specializing in complex trauma. She explains that glimmers are “the micro moments in your day that spark a sense of joy and wellbeing.”

“Glimmers routinely appear in everyday life, yet frequently go unnoticed. They are easily overlooked because, to help you survive, the human brain is wired to pay more attention to negative events than positive ones.  It’s important to understand that glimmers are not a form of toxic positivity”

In an article I read online by Psychotherapist Lauren Baird, glimmers are an essential element in our mental health toolkit. “Glimmers are often free but noticing them can actually reshape our nervous system” says Lauren.

“These little micro-moments act like a gentle hug to our nervous system, helpings us feel safe, present, connected and moving us out of that self-critical place, to a more soothing place.”

When we notice a glimmer - for instance spotting a rainbow, watching a beautiful sunset or smelling the fresh aroma of coffee - it is a micro moment that brings joy and a soothing sense.

So with this in mind I’m taking the time to actively find glimmers and enjoy them. Soak them up. Appreciate them.

This morning I could hear the birds chirping happily outside and noticed they are waking up earlier with spring around the corner. The cold mornings are starting to give way to slightly warmer weather. I savoured the first cup of coffee instead of hurriedly drinking in between checking e-mails. I took the time to enjoy a game of Wordle, the smell of my favourite hand soap and the glass of water after a quick workout.

Sounds simple but being aware of these small moments really improved my Monday.

Once you look for glimmers, you’ll notice them with ease. Often you just need to slow down instead of rushing through a to-do list.

Do you have a list of glimmers? Feel free to share in the comments.

xx