Embracing Glimmers: A Path to Positivity

In our daily lives, we often encounter both triggers and glimmers. While triggers can spark negative emotions and stress, glimmers offer a refreshing counterpoint, providing micro-moments of joy, safety, and connection[1][4]. By focusing on these glimmers, we can cultivate a more positive outlook and improve our overall well-being.

Understanding Glimmers

Glimmers are small, everyday experiences that bring us pleasure, peace, or a sense of connection[11]. They can be as simple as:

- Hearing children's laughter

- Feeling the warmth of sunlight on your skin

- Tasting a delicious home-cooked meal

- Watching a beautiful sunset[2]

These moments, though brief, have the power to activate our parasympathetic nervous system, promoting feelings of calm and relaxation[4].

Cultivating Positivity Through Glimmers

To harness the power of glimmers and foster a more positive mindset, consider the following strategies:

1. Practice Mindfulness**: Pay attention to your surroundings and sensations throughout the day. This heightened awareness can help you notice more glimmers[5].

2. Create a Glimmer Journal**: At the end of each day, jot down the glimmers you experienced. This practice helps train your brain to notice and appreciate positive moments[4].

3. Limit Screen Time**: Excessive screen use can distract us from noticing glimmers. Take breaks from your devices to engage more fully with your environment[4].

4. Connect with Others**: Meaningful interactions with friends and loved ones can be a rich source of glimmers[4].

5. Explore Nature**: Spending time outdoors often provides numerous opportunities to experience glimmers[7].

The Power of Shifting Focus

By intentionally seeking out and savoring glimmers, we can gradually shift our focus away from triggers and negative experiences. This mindset shift not only improves our mood but can also enhance our resilience and overall mental health[9].

Remember, glimmers are all around us. We don't need to chase them – we simply need to open ourselves to noticing and appreciating these small moments of joy and connection[7]. As we cultivate this practice, we may find ourselves naturally gravitating towards a more positive outlook on life.

References

[1] How To Seek More Glimmers (Instead Of Triggers) In Your Life https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/what-are-glimmers

[2] Triggers, Glimmers and Joy Jolts | Savouring positive experiences https://www.angelaraspass.com.au/triggers-glimmers-and-joy-jolts/

[3] Know your glimmers and triggers - Julia Samuel https://www.juliasamuel.co.uk/support-posts/know-your-glimmers-and-triggers

[4] What Are Glimmers and Why Are They Good for You? https://www.newportinstitute.com/resources/mental-health/what-are-glimmers/

[5] Be mindful about your Glimmers, and you'll handle your Triggers! https://www.resilientpeople.co.za/blog/be-mindful-about-your-glimmers-and-youll-handle-your-triggers

[6] Glimmers And Triggers: The Things That "Move" Us https://www.onthebrinknutrition.com/blog/glimmers-and-triggers

[7] More Glimmers and Less Triggers Will Make for A Happier Life - Blog https://www.tysonfranklin.com/news/news/blog/12982-more-glimmers-and-less-triggers-will-make-for-a-happier-life

[8] Triggers vs Glimmers - SL Counseling https://www.sarahlacylpcc.com/blog/triggers-vs-glimmers

[9] What Are Glimmers? - Bournewood Health Systems https://www.bournewood.com/what-are-glimmers/

[10] How to Grow Glimmers and Feel Less Anxious - Psychology Today https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/crazy-for-life/202309/how-to-grow-glimmers-and-feel-less-anxious

[11] How To Make The Most of Glimmers And Experience More Joy https://www.henryford.com/blog/2024/08/how-to-make-the-most-of-glimmers-and-experience-more-joy

[12] 'Glimmers' are the opposite of triggers. Here's how to embrace them. https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2022/03/23/glimmers-opposite-triggers-mental-health-benefits/7121353001/