Harnessing Glimmers of Joy

Whoo, we’re riding the holiday hype train straight into the end of the year! It’s the season of joy, but let's be real, sometimes finding happiness can feel like trying to catch a unicorn in a storm. With all the suffering in the world and our daily chaos, it's easy to lose our smile somewhere in the mix.

But fear not, joy-seekers! Even in this whirlwind, we can sprinkle some serious happiness magic into our lives. Let’s talk about these gems of joy called "glimmers." Glimmers are the opposite of “triggers.” They're like those cool fireflies lighting up a dark night—small but shining bright! Glimmers are the stuff that rescues us from gloomy days, giving us a big bear hug of happiness. Think of a kid's giggles while they look up at you with their big beautiful eyes, the sparkle of the ocean under the sun's embrace, or the pure delight of sipping hot chocolate after playing in the snow. They're our secret sauce to spicing up our mental and emotional vibe.

So, here’s the fun part. Imagine creating your own happiness treasure chest—a "glimmer box," if you will. You can go digital or old-school physical with it. It's a special space where you collect things that tickle your senses when you are feeling a bit down. Whenever I have a bad day or I feel anxious, I reach for my glimmer box (I have one both digitally and physically) and it really helps ground me while putting a smile on my face. Let me walk you through this joy ride:

Sight:

   - Pick out heart-melting photos of everything that makes you go “aww!” Stick them in a folder on your phone or print them out for your physical box.

   - Scribble down memories, encouraging words, or quotes that plaster an instant smile on your face. Stick them in your notes app or on paper.

Hearing:

   - Jam out to a "glimmer playlist" full of tunes that give you a happiness high.

   - Tune into nature’s orchestra—the chirping birds, ocean vibes, and rustling leaves.

   - Voicemails or voice notes with the sweet sound of a loved one’s voice.

Taste and Touch:

   - Grab a cup of cozy tea or anything that feels like a warm hug in a mug.

   - Get physical! Long hugs, cuddles with pets, or getting your hands dirty in a garden or jamming on an instrument—these all count as happiness boosters.

Smell:

   - Inhale the good stuff! Whether it’s ocean breeze, essential oils, fresh coffee, or the aroma of a bloomin’ beautiful flower, take it in and let it lift you up.

And hey, don’t forget the intangible glimmers—those wow moments in your day. These little sparks of joy can shake up a cranky mood and turn it into a ‘life’s not so bad’ kinda vibe. Lean into the little things in life that bring you joy. 

These glimmers are like magic beans—they grow joy. Collect them, treasure them, and let them sprinkle some happiness dust on your life. As we gear up for the new year, remember, happiness is not a destination; it’s the adventure we’re on every day. So, let’s dive into these joy practices, rock that contentment, and shine brighter than all the holiday lights put together!

Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year, my friends! 

Until next year, take care of yourself!

Massoma