Ever since the emergence of Positive Psychology, attributed to the work of Martin Seligman and Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, there has been a surge in the study of human flourishing. Csikszentmihalyi introduced the concept of being “in flow,” an immersive state where an individual becomes fully engrossed in a topic or activity, manifesting profound feelings of enjoyment and satisfaction. The importance of manifesting positive emotions and its impact on our mental well-being is widely promoted and one of my favourite daily practices are referred to as “Glimmers.”
“Glimmers”, a term coined by Deb Dana, a renowned expert in complex trauma, offers a different lens to the widely known idea of triggers. As elucidated in her 2018 publication, “The Polyvagal Theory in Therapy,” the notion of glimmers has gained increasing prominence due to its potential to activate a more optimistic and resilient state of mind.
Understanding Glimmers: A Break from Triggers
While triggers are stimuli that set off negative emotional responses connected to past experiences, glimmers are those subtle moments in daily life that elicit positive emotions. In a world focused on stress, anxiety, and trauma, embracing glimmers allows individuals to acknowledge and celebrate moments of joy, contentment, and connection that may otherwise pass unnoticed.
Recognising Glimmers: Examples in Daily Life
Glimmers can manifest in a multitude of ways, and their significance lies in their ability to bring positivity to the forefront of our consciousness. Examples of glimmers could include:
Nature’s Beauty: The vibrant colors of a sunset, the tranquility of a flowing river, or the gentle rustling of leaves in the wind, can evoke feelings of awe, appreciation and peace.
Acts of Kindness: Witnessing or engaging in acts of kindness, offering a smile to a stranger, receiving a heartfelt thank you, helping a person in need, can generate warmth and a sense of connection.
Small Achievements: Accomplishing a personal goal, no matter how small, can trigger a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem.
Laughter and Joy: Sharing a genuine laugh with loved ones, enjoying a hobby, or watching your favourite movie, can evoke happiness and joy.
Emotional Resonance: Engaging in a meaningful conversation, reading an inspiring quote, or listening to a moving piece of music can evoke emotions that resonate deeply.
Nurturing Mental Health Through Glimmers
Shifting our attention to glimmers can have a profound impact on our mental health and overall well-being. Here’s how embracing positive emotions through glimmers can benefit us:
Resilience: Regularly acknowledging and savoring glimmers can help build emotional resilience, making it easier to navigate challenges and setbacks.
Stress Reduction: Focusing on positive moments can counteract the effects of chronic stress, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.
Improved Relationships: Sharing glimmer experiences with others can strengthen social bonds and enhance our capacity for empathy and understanding.
Mindfulness: Embracing glimmers encourages a mindful presence in the moment, promoting a sense of groundedness and contentment.
Embrace the Glimmer Moments
As we embark on a journey to embrace glimmers and cultivate positive emotion, it’s important to remember that these moments are often fleeting. By actively seeking out and appreciating these pockets of positivity, we can gradually reshape our emotional landscape. Here’s how you can integrate glimmer-focused practices into your life:
Daily Gratitude: Dedicate a few minutes each day to reflect on the glimmer moments you’ve experienced.
Mindful Awareness: Practice mindfulness to fully engage with the present moment, allowing glimmers to unfold naturally.
Share and Connect: Share your glimmer experiences with friends, family, or through online communities, fostering a sense of connection and shared positivity.
The Power of Mirror Neurons: A Call to Action
The beauty of embracing glimmers extends beyond our personal experiences. As we share our positive moments with others, our mirror neurons come into play. These neurons are responsible for empathy and imitation, enabling others to experience similar emotions simply by witnessing our joy. By sharing our glimmer moments, we create a ripple effect of positivity that transcends boundaries and nurtures collective well-being.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice.
