Glimmers in Parenting: Finding Moments of Connection and Joy
Parenting is a journey filled with challenges, growth, and countless small moments that can either uplift or overwhelm us. Amid the demands of daily life, it’s easy to focus on the struggles. But what if the key to resilience and connection lies in something as simple as noticing the small, positive moments—moments called "glimmers"?
What Are Glimmers?
Glimmers, a term introduced by therapist Deb Dana, are the opposite of triggers. While triggers activate stress responses, glimmers are those fleeting, positive moments that help us feel calm, safe, and connected. They are the quiet anchors in our day that bring us back to a sense of well-being and joy.
Imagine the first sip of your morning coffee, a shared laugh with your child, or the warmth of the sun on your skin during a family walk. These moments might be small, but their impact on your nervous system and emotional state is profound.
Why Glimmers Matter in Parenting
Our nervous system is designed to notice threats, but by consciously seeking glimmers, parents can:
Deepen relationships and build trust.
Support emotional regulation in themselves and their children.
Shift perspective and focus on what’s going well.
Model mindfulness and positivity for their kids.
Glimmers don’t demand perfection; they simply ask for presence. And the more you practice noticing them, the more they multiply.
How to Start Noticing Glimmers
Recognising glimmers takes intentionality, but it’s a practice that grows with time. Here are a few tips:
Pause and Breathe: When you feel a moment of calm or joy, pause. Take a deep breath and acknowledge it as a glimmer.
Feel It in Your Body: Pay attention to the physical sensations that accompany the glimmer. Is your chest lighter? Your breath slower? These signals help ground you in the experience.
Join Your Child’s Glimmers: Children naturally notice glimmers, like the joy of discovering something new. Step into their world and experience these moments with them.
Create Space for Stillness: Build unplugged moments into your day to make room for noticing glimmers.
How Rising Family OT Helps Families Harness Glimmers
At Rising Family OT, we understand the power of small moments. Our services focus on:
Co-Regulation: Supporting parents and children to find calm and connection together.
Daily Routines: Crafting rhythms that create space for noticing and enjoying glimmers.
Mindfulness Practices: Teaching families how to stay present and savour these moments.
Relationship Building: Strengthening bonds through shared positive experiences.
Building a Parenting Mindset Around Glimmers
Parenting isn’t about eliminating every challenge; it’s about creating balance and connection. Glimmers remind us that joy and calm can be found in the smallest of moments. Let them be your guide toward a more connected, resilient family life.
If you’re ready to embrace glimmers and transform your parenting journey, Rising Family OT is here to help. Let’s work together to uncover the beauty in the everyday and build a foundation of joy and connection.