Transform Your Life: Embracing Glimmers to Overcome Triggers and Find Inner Peace

Written by Eileen Hopkins

My road to counselling and psychotherapy has been interesting. Having worked in a caring profession, nursing for over 30 years, I was always at my happiest when interacting with my patients & I have always been a people person.

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, amidst the chaos of daily life, there exists a concept so profound yet often overlooked: glimmers versus triggers. It’s a psychological notion that has the potential to transform the way we navigate through life’s ups and downs.

In our minds, there are two important things: glimmers and triggers. Glimmers are like small lights that make us feel happy or safe. They can be simple things, like a beautiful sunset or a hug from someone we love. Triggers, on the other hand, are things that make us feel anxious or scared. They often come from past experiences that were traumatic or upsetting.
But even though triggers can cause problems, we have the power to overcome them with the help of glimmers. By paying attention to the good things in life and finding joy in small moments, we can push away the bad feelings triggered by past events.

Being aware of our emotions and focusing on the positive can make a big difference. It helps us handle difficult situations better and brings more happiness into our lives. So, by embracing the brightness of glimmers, we can shine a light on the darkness of triggers and find peace within ourselves.
The concept of glimmers finds its roots in Polyvagal theory, pioneered by behavioural neuroscientist Stephen Porges in 1995. This theory delves into the intricacies of our autonomic nervous system, responsible for involuntary actions like breathing. According to Theodora Blanchfield, neuroception, the process by which our nervous system discerns danger, is facilitated by the vagus nerve. And it’s this very nerve that plays a pivotal role in recognizing and responding to glimmers.

In a world brimming with uncertainties and challenges, cultivating an awareness of glimmers can serve as a beacon of light amidst the darkness. It’s about consciously seeking out those moments of joy, however fleeting they may be, and allowing them to permeate our beings.

So, as you navigate through the intricacies of today, I urge you to look for the glimmers. Notice them, savor them, and let their visceral effect wash over you.

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