In this week’s episode of Agony Aunties, we delved into Deb Dana's Glimmer Practice, a gentle method to immerse yourself in those fleeting, joyous moments that life offers. This practice encourages us to be more attuned to these 'glimmers,' helping us to weave more positivity into our daily lives.
For evolutionary reasons we are born with a negative bias, and if in addition to that we have had many difficult experiences our nervous system can get fixed on looking for threat. This can be self-fulfilling
Shifting where we put our attention can shift our mood and perspective.Looking for glimmers is an easy way to do this
I found on Deb Dana’s website a breakdown of her Glimmers practice, which I’d like to share here. Here are the five steps Deb suggests, reimagined to help you fully embrace and cherish these moments.
Observe: Start by tuning into the subtle signs that signal a glimmer. Pay attention to the physical sensations that accompany these moments of joy. How does your body respond? Where do you feel it in your body? What emotions bubble up? What thoughts cross your mind? Becoming aware of these indicators helps you stay present and savour the joy.
Pause: With your newfound awareness, pause when you sense a glimmer. These moments are often brief and can easily slip by unnoticed. Make it a habit to pause and acknowledge them throughout your day. Whether it’s a smile from a stranger, a moment of peace in nature, or a warm conversation, these glimmers are all around you, waiting to be noticed.
Cherish: Develop a simple way to cherish these moments when they occur. It could be a silent 'thank you,' a hand on your heart, or a gentle smile. Allow yourself a few seconds to fully appreciate the moment, letting it wash over you and settle in your heart.
Recall: Find a way to keep track of your glimmers. This might be a journal where you jot them down, photos that capture the essence of the moment, or a collection of small keepsakes. Creating a personal record of these moments can serve as a beautiful reminder of the joy in your life.
Share: Sharing your glimmers with others can amplify their impact. Tell a friend, share with your family over dinner, or start a group where you all share your daily glimmers. Reliving these moments through storytelling not only reinforces your own joy but spreads it to those around you.
I hope you find this helpful. Actively seeking steps to incorporate these habits into your daily routine, so that you can cultivate a deeper appreciation for the small, joyful moments that make life special. Embrace these glimmers, and let them light up your days.
Love,
Julia x
Thank you, Julia <3 xxxx