A glimmer is a small, positive experience that triggers feelings of safety, peace, or connection. The term became popular within trauma-informed therapy as a way to counterbalance triggers (experiences that cause distress or negative responses).

Glimmers are micro-moments of calm or positivity in daily life. These experiences can help nurture resilience and emotional well-being by grounding us in positive feelings, even if just briefly.

Recognising and savouring glimmers can be powerful in building emotional strength.

I brainstormed 100 glimmers to help you spot them in your life.

  1. The first sip of hot coffee (or tea) on a cold morning
  2. Sunlight streaming through the window
  3. A warm, cosy blanket around your shoulders
  4. Spotting a rainbow after a storm
  5. Hearing your favourite song unexpectedly
  6. The scent of freshly baked bread
  7. Feeling grass beneath your bare feet
  8. Finding a perfectly smooth pebble
  9. Receiving a smile from a stranger
  10. A gentle breeze on a hot day
  11. The sound of leaves rustling in the wind
  12. Petrichor. The smell of rain on dry earth
  13. A hug from a loved one
  14. Laughing until your stomach hurts
  15. Watching the sunrise or sunset
  16. Seeing a puppy or kitten playing (my recommendation)
  17. Finding money you’d forgotten in your pocket
  18. A compliment from a colleague
  19. Catching the scent of flowers
  20. Watching birds (for example)
  21. Listening to a calming instrumental song
  22. Hearing laughter from children playing nearby
  23. Holding a warm drink
  24. A handwritten note
  25. Listening to the sea
  26. The smell of a favourite book
  27. A butterfly
  28. Fresh laundry
  29. Warm sunlight on your skin
  30. Witnessing a random act of kindness
  31. A gentle pat from a pet
  32. The first flower in spring
  33. Watching a flickering candle
  34. A perfectly timed joke that makes you laugh
  35. Realising someone remembers a small detail about you
  36. Watching snowflakes fall
  37. Finding a feather on the ground
  38. A spontaneous compliment
  39. The sight of the stars on a clear night
  40. Reading a line in a book that resonates deeply
  41. Catching the scent of pine
  42. Finding a penny on the ground
  43. The smell of freshly ground coffee
  44. Seeing a baby smile
  45. The sight of waves crashing on the shore
  46. Being wrapped in a towel fresh from a radiator
  47. Getting the perfect spot in a busy car park
  48. The feel of sand beneath your feet
  49. Feeling a soft breeze through your hair
  50. Receiving an unexpected, thoughtful message
  51. The calmness after a storm
  52. Watching clouds drift by on a lazy afternoon
  53. Finishing a task you were putting off
  54. The quiet of the early morning
  55. Seeing a friendly face in a crowded place
  56. Your favourite food prepared just right
  57. Parking your car, first time
  58. Holding someone’s hand
  59. The sight of a full moon
  60. Laughing at a memory from years ago
  61. Feeling grateful for something small
  62. Watching fireflies flicker in the dark
  63. Finding a seat on a crowded train
  64. The crisp smell of autumn leaves
  65. Taking a deep breath of fresh air
  66. The taste of cold water on a hot day
  67. Getting a gentle massage
  68. The sight of a beautiful piece of art
  69. Warm socks
  70. Watching the sun’s rays break through clouds
  71. The joy of finishing a good book
  72. The smell of lavender or eucalyptus
  73. Watching a squirrel
  74. Noticing a lovely texture, like tree bark
  75. Seeing a child’s curiosity and wonder
  76. The sound of wind chimes in the breeze
  77. Watching a peaceful animal
  78. A sip of water after feeling thirsty
  79. The stillness of a library
  80. Getting a postcard or letter in the post
  81. Seeing an old couple holding hands
  82. The sound of a train rumbling in the distance
  83. Finding an unexpected freebie
  84. The joy of petting a cat or dog
  85. Watching the flicker of a bonfire
  86. Feeling the warmth of the sun
  87. Spotting your favourite flower on a walk
  88. Seeing kids playing without a care
  89. Watching rain fall from inside your home
  90. The smell of lemon or fresh herbs
  91. Witnessing a small bird take a drink of water
  92. Watching fish swim calmly in a pond or aquarium
  93. Feeling a light, warm rain on your skin
  94. A cool breeze after a hot day
  95. Seeing your reflection smiling back at you
  96. Watching a butterfly flutter past
  97. Reading an inspiring quote
  98. Spotting the shape of an animal in the clouds
  99. Seeing twinkling fairy lights or stars
  100. Taking a deep, slow breath and exhaling fully
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