Have you ever wondered how to regulate your nervous system? Glimmers could be the beginning of that journey for you!

Have you ever felt the subtle spark of ventral energy, a glimmer of hope and connection amidst the challenges of life? I’ve experienced these moments too, and they hold tremendous significance in our journey towards emotional well-being. Building upon the foundation of Polyvagal Theory, let’s explore the profound practice of recording glimmers and how it supports our emotional regulation and nurtures a compassionate bond with our nervous system.

A glimmer can be likened to a delicate spark of ventral energy, the state of safety and connection. These glimmers are scattered around us, but they often elude our awareness when our nervous system is in a state of protection (red/blue). Even when we anchor ourselves in safety and connection, we may still miss these precious moments if we’re not actively seeking them. It is through the practice of recording glimmers that we cultivate the ability to notice and appreciate these micro-moments of ventral (green) energy.

To embark on this practice, let’s begin with reflection:

1. How do you recognize a glimmer? Explore the unique sensations, thoughts, and emotions that accompany these moments of ventral energy. Pay attention to the subtle shifts within your body and mind that signal the presence of a glimmer.
2. Discover the various feelings that glimmers can evoke. They may bring forth a sense of calmness, joy, warmth, or even a gentle release of tension. Embrace the wide range of emotions that can manifest as glimmers, and honor their significance.
3. Notice the predictable and unexpected glimmers that emerge in your life. Some glimmers may arise from familiar sources, such as engaging in soothing activities or nurturing relationships. Yet, be open to the unexpected glimmers that can arise unexpectedly, reminding us that ventral energy can be found in surprising places.
4. Practice the “See – Stop – Appreciate” approach to acknowledge and savor a glimmer as it happens. Take a moment to truly see and recognize the glimmer, pause to fully experience it, and offer appreciation for the nourishment it brings to your nervous system.
5. Keep a record of your glimmers, tracking them in a journal or a document. This allows you to reflect on and revisit these moments of ventral energy. Additionally, consider sharing your glimmers with trusted individuals in your life, fostering connection and spreading the positive ripple effects.
6. Set an intention to invite more glimmers into your life. By setting an intention to notice and embrace these subtle sparks of ventral energy, you create an open invitation for more glimmers to emerge on your path.

As we practice recording glimmers from a Polyvagal perspective, we deepen our understanding of the intricate dance between dysregulation and regulation within our nervous systems. These glimmers serve as reminders that our nervous systems have the incredible capacity to hold both aspects simultaneously. They become guiding lights that illuminate the path towards emotional regulation and foster a compassionate connection with our authentic selves.

So, let us embark on this transformative journey of nurturing the glimmers within. Through the lens of Polyvagal Theory, we cultivate the ability to recognize and celebrate these sparks of ventral energy. May your recording of glimmers guide you towards emotional regulation, and may the beauty of these moments bring you closer to a profound sense of self-compassion and connection.

If you feel called to work together, feel free to contact me directly