Finding Glimmers in Everyday Moments
The pursuit of glimmers, micro-moments of positivity, is gaining momentum as people seek solace and meaning in the midst of their everyday routines, according to the NZHerald. Whether it’s the laughter of a child, the beauty of a sunrise, or the comfort of a good conversation, glimmers serve as beacons of hope and sources of vitality in an increasingly complex world. This emerging trend revolves around the acknowledgment that life’s beauty resides not just in grand achievements, but also in the smallest, often overlooked details that can bring a profound sense of joy and gratitude.
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Everyday magical moments
USA Today reports that the term glimmers was coined by Deb Dana, a licensed clinical social worker who deals with complex trauma. Glimmers are the oposite of triggers. In her book “The Polyvagal Theory in Therapy”, she explains that glimmers are small moments of connection and happiness, which cause our nervous system to feel safe or calm.
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The concept of seeking glimmers encourages a shift in perspective, inviting individuals to become more attuned to the present moment, the NZ Herald reports. Instead of fixating solely on long-term goals, the trend prompts us to pause and notice the charm in the mundane. Whether it’s the warm aroma of morning coffee, a gentle breeze rustling through leaves, or a heartfelt smile exchanged with a stranger, these brief encounters carry the power to uplift spirits and restore faith in the world.
Glimmers embody mindfulness, a practice deeply rooted in ancient philosophies that has found new relevance in modern life. Mindfulness teaches us to be fully present, to engage with each passing moment without judgment. Seeking glimmers aligns seamlessly with this mindset, as it encourages individuals to notice and appreciate the small details that often go unnoticed in the whirlwind of daily routines. By adopting this approach, people learn to cultivate gratitude for the simple pleasures that enrich their lives.
“Glimmers can give you an opportunity to see that okay, it was a day with hard moments, but there were also some good moments. It creates a sense of coping with the hardships, or maybe a buffer from those hard times so you don’t feel as heavy.” psychotherapist, Shaddia Ghneim told the NZ Herald.
Seeking authenticity and joy
Embracing glimmers is a conscious choice to prioritize mental wellbeing. By choosing to focus on the positive aspects of life, no matter how small, you can reduce your stress levels, increase feelings of contentment, and improve overall mental health, ABC Everyday reports.
The Greatest blog recommends taking a personal inventory and getting to know what your biggest triggers are as well as what your best glimmers are. Then you can learn to use those glimmers as cues of safety or agents that can bring you back to calmness.
As the trend of seeking glimmers grows in popularity, it has begun to transform the way people interact with their surroundings and emotions. Glimmers are reminders that positivity is not solely tied to monumental achievements, but rather can be found in the simple pleasures that punctuate daily life. By embracing this trend, you open ourselves to a richer, more fulfilling existence—one that finds beauty in the ordinary and joy in the unanticipated.
