Glimmers

Glimmers

Have you heard of the term “Glimmers”? It is a psychological term that is the opposite of triggers. Triggers are painful memories that show up in your present life and can cause your nervous system to become alert. An alerted nervous system will cause dysregulation, i.e., an inability to control or regulate your emotional responses.

Glimmers in everyday life are small, spontaneous moments where you feel calm, peaceful, present, or joyful. Glimmers vary from person to person. Glimmers are calming to our nervous systems.

This time of year, our nervous systems tend to be on high alert. This could be caused by the children’s excitement (and sometimes dysregulation) during, before and after the non-stop holidays. We might be dreading the time change because we know that it causes sleep disruption for the children in our care (and for us.) We may feel sad or anxious about spending the holiday with family members or navigating the holidays after a loss. These feelings are natural but often tricky to navigate without feeling overwhelmed.

One way we can care for our nervous systems is to create a habit of recognizing our glimmers. Take time to have a mindful moment where we notice our thoughts and are aware of them without getting stuck in a negative thought pattern. Remember that glimmers are cues of safety or agents that bring us back to calmness. You can use a favorite memory, a photo that makes you smile, or a scent that brings you back to a time/place where you felt safe and loved. 

When you find your glimmer, it is essential to recognize how your body feels. This sense of calm is your nervous system in a relaxed state. This can sometimes feel uncomfortable for those of us who, more often than not, live our lives with an alerted nervous system. It can take a bit for this feeling to be recognized as enjoyable. 

Practical Ways to Implement Glimmers into

Your Daily Life:

• Identify your triggers and how they affect your body and behavior. Identify your glimmers and how they impact your body and behavior. 

• Create a “menu” of glimmers that you can visit when you are feeling dysregulated. Keep this “menu” written down and tucked away so you can pull it out when needed.

• Develop a playlist that evokes a feeling of peacefulness.

• What scents bring you back to a safe space? Collect essential oils, candles, etc., to bring your glimmers to life.

• Never underestimate the power of nature. Get outside and enjoy a walk. Focus on the sounds and sights around you.

• If you spend time on social media, follow accounts that bring peace. 

• Even introverts need to connect with others. Who are the people in your life who make you smile? Spend time with them!

• Understand that you must be flexible and patient with recognizing and enjoying your glimmers.