Glimmers

Glimmers are micro-moments of regulation that foster feelings of well-being. A glimmer could be as simple as seeing a friendly face, hearing a soothing sound, or noticing something in the environment that brings a smile. They are personal to each of us and one person’s glimmer may be another person’s trigger. Glimmers are a cue in the day, either internal or external, that sparks a sense of wellbeing. These tiny moments gently yet significantly shape your system toward well-being.  They help you become regulated and ready for connection.  (Deb Dana, The Polyvagal Theory)

I started a gratitude journal earlier this year, and although I have not been consistently writing in it (not as often as I would want to anyway), it still contains my Glimmers - the everyday magic that I would otherwise not remember or even notice, were I not consciously looking out for them. And so earlier today, while going over the pictures in my phone, I decided to include a Glimmer page here. Since updating it daily would be expecting too much from myself (and which I would most likely not end up doing which would lead to frustration and unnecessary self-recrimination), I opted to do a monthly one, starting with last month’s magical moments.

And while I was creating the May entry, I realized I could restart my Amazon affiliate journey, given how I would also be posting about stuff that I love (and I mean things that I buy or were bought for me). I know, I know. I shouldn’t be contributing to the evil tech bros, but Amazon is the only site that offers free shipping to the Philippines, and where we can get cheaper vitamins, books, toys, and other stuff that are not locally available. So, if you do see some Amazon links in this site, just think that you are supporting me and not him (yes, not that tech bro).

Being aware of these Glimmers has actually done a lot of good for my mental well-being. There is so much to be thankful for these days, even with the dismal state of the world, if only we would spend some time appreciating the little things that happen to us. An unexpected message, a recipe that has gone well, an hours-long conversation. Even a late-night work assignment and a long commute home after could become a glimmer if we know what to look for.

This would also motivate me to take more pictures as I really suck at remembering to do so.