What are 'Glimmers'? The Power of Spotting Joy

You may have heard of “triggers” — moments of intense stress or anxiety often in response to a memory, person, or situation associated with trauma. Encountering a personal trigger can activate the body’s fight or flight response. But what’s the opposite of a trigger? What’s a moment that can make us feel instantly safe or comforted?

Author Deb Dana coined the term “glimmers” to refer to this phenomenon. Taking note of glimmers is a mindfulness practice that can spark micro-moments of joy, boost resilience, and enhance our mental well-being.  

So, how can you start spotting the glimmers around you? Here are a few tips:

#1: Unplug and Pay Attention
In order to notice glimmers in your life, you have to pay close attention. Try to stay in the moment and use all five senses.

Examples of glimmers might include:

• Seeing a rainbow stretch across the sky
• Appreciating the sound of birds chirping
• Watching a child or pet play
• Savoring the taste of your favorite food or drink
• Feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin
• Wearing a cozy outfit
• Opening the door for a stranger

Remember, glimmers are about small, everyday moments, not monumental milestones. What makes you feel a sense of peace or happiness? Pause to notice it and recognize how you feel.

#2: Keep a Running List
As you start to notice glimmers around you, write them down in a notebook, notes app, or sticky notes to post on your desk or mirror. This will give you a way to remember the tiny moments of joy and build a “menu” of feel-good moments you can revisit over time.

#3: Share Your Glimmers
Finally, be sure to share your moments of joy with others. You could tell someone, or even post on your social media accounts. Glimmers can be contagious in the best way!

Help and Hope Start Here.
It’s important to note that for people struggling with depression or anxiety, noticing glimmers can be very difficult. If you feel like joy is out of reach for you, it could be a sign that it’s time to reach out for help.

Remember, you don’t have to wait until life is overwhelming to seek care. If you’ve been feeling sad, anxious, or just not like yourself for two weeks or more, tell someone. You deserve to feel better, and help is available.

Mental Health Recovery Board Serving Warren & Clinton Counties is here to connect you to provider agencies in Warren and Clinton counties for local resources and support. Contact us today — help is close by.

In a crisis? Need someone to talk to now? Call or text 988 for free, confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.