'Glimmers' Might Just Be The Secret To Managing Stress

Regulate your nervous system with this simple technique.

Taking in the pastel-hued sunrise during your early morning stroll. Savouring your first sip of coffee as you embark on your day. Admiring the ocean’s glistening surface reflecting the sun’s rays. Lying in bed during a stormy night. All of these visceral experiences share a common theme – they spark joy and connect you to the present moment.

And now, we have a word to describe them; glimmers.

You’re probably familiar with the concept of triggers; experiences or stimuli that remind you of a previous traumatic or challenging event and can elicit an unconscious emotional response. Well, glimmers are the opposite.

What is a glimmer?

While triggers create a negative emotional response, glimmers create a positive one. While triggers often emerge out of nowhere and blindside you, glimmers can be cultivated. And while triggers are often entirely out of your control, glimmers are largely within it.

While this may seem like a new phenomena, the idea stems from a study conducted in the 1990s by neuroscientist Stephen Porges. Porges was undergoing the study of Polyvagal Theory, and through his study, the concepts of 'triggers' and 'glimmers' were born. The actual term 'glimmer' was then coined by social worker Deb Dana in 2018,, when it was published in the book The Polyvagal Theory in Therapy: Engaging the Rhythm of Regulation.

Polyvagal Theory is concerned with the way in which autonomic nervous system (which is responsible for involuntary actions like breathing) searches for cues which may be a threat, or of danger to us.

When your body perceives a threat, you’ll experience a physiological response such as an increase in heart rate, an inability to process thoughts coherently, and sometimes even perspiration, as your body enters its fight-or-flight mode.

On the other hand, when your body feels safe, it will do the complete opposite. Your central nervous system will regulate, causing your heart rate to decrease while you enter a more relaxed state.

This is where glimmers come in. Glimmers are moments that spark "joy, awe or belongingness," says Dr Justine Grosso. They are cues of safety and help your body feel calm and relaxed. By consciously noticing these moments, you experience a sense of groundedness, connection and wellbeing, which is excellent for managing stress.

What are some common glimmers?

The smell of freshly cut grass
Feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin
Seeing a rainbow
The smell of rain after it hits the pavement
Petting an animal
Spending time outside and walking around in nature
The first sip of a fresh cup of coffee
Swimming in the ocean
Drinking a cool glass of water on a hot day
Listening to your favourite song

How can I create a glimmer?

If you're finding it difficult to pinpoint joyful moments, try to think back to times that sparked small moments of happiness. Whether it's jumping into clean sheets (heaven), cooking a delicious meal for loved ones, watching the sunrise or eating lunch outdoors, these are activities you can incorporate into your day, every day. Peppering these moments throughout your day is a powerful way to regulate your central nervous system.

Once you've identified a bank of joy-sparking sights, smells, sounds, and places, you can begin to voluntarily experience the joy of them as often as you please.

When does a glimmer become a glow?

Like the sound of glimmers? Meet your new bestie... a 'glow'.

“You can turn a glimmer into a glow by staying with the sensation, spark of joy, and thoughts for at least 30 seconds,” said Dr Grosso. So, keep searching for your glimmers, basking in your glows and experiencing the abundant joy they can bring.

This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualised health advice. If you are concerned about your health and well-being, please speak to your GP, who will advise on the correct treatment plan. You can also call Lifeline 24/7 for mental health support on 13 11 14.