For years, we have all heard of “triggers”. Those sudden, negative stimuli that spike our anxiety and send our nervous systems into fight-or-flight mode. We follow the information on how to notice them, manage them, and keep a track record. But have you heard of the opposite of triggers?
What Is Glimmers?
Coined by licensed clinical social worker Deb Dana in her work on Polyvagal Theory, glimmers are shifting the landscape of mental health. As the name suggests, they are fleeting micro-moments of peace and joy.
Glimmers work by signaling to our nervous system safety and connection. Biologically, they act like a stop sign to the stress response, helping us reset. They cue the parasympathetic nervous system to relax, lowering cortisol and heart rate, and activating the ventral vagal state, which is the nervous system branch for safety, regulation, connection, and grounding.
As a rising concept, the power of glimmers lies in the fact that we actively scan the environment instead of enjoying it. Because evolutionarily, we are wired to watch out for threats to keep us alive. Yet the problem is, this mechanism might have protected our ancestors from predators; in modern life, it creates chronic stress. More than usual, it feels impossible to fully reset or find peace in ordinary moments.
How to Identify Your Own Glimmers?
Despite being available as a list or a cheat sheet on Pinterest, Glimmers are often unique. For some people, it could be the warmth of a morning coffee mug. Or, the specific way sunlight filters through tree leaves. The comforting smell of rain on dry pavement. Or for others, a stranger’s genuine smile will do the work. Of course, the cheat code is that you can try the glimmers on those premade lists and decide what works and what does not.
If you want to find your own glimmers, practicing mindfulness can help. What do you like? What do you dislike? When you do a body scan, what do you notice? Similarly, another effective way is to intentionally notice both bodily and emotional reactions. Sometimes, it feels straightforwardly positive emotions: joy, peace, gratitude, relaxation… Other times, it can give you a subtle warmth or a buzz in your chest.
Just as you keep track of triggers, use journal or note apps to record small joyful moments. Those writing practices will not only give you more clarity and a clear trace of thoughts, but also benefit your overall mental health. (Related: How to Reset Body and Mind in a Neuroscientific-Backed Way?; Co-Regulation: One of the Best Things You Can Do with Someone; Sense of Humor Leads to Better Mental Well-Being)
*What is Daily Insight? An ongoing series of quick, bite-sized brain snacks. Every week, there are three research-based factual reports and three research-informed reflective notes.
*Note: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to give advice. If you are in crisis, please reach out for professional help. Always prioritize your wellbeing.*
