Finding the Light on a Winter's Night
/By Alexandra Abell, LCSW-C
Finding the Light on a Winter’s Night
A glimmer is defined as “a faint, or wavering light.” In psychology, a glimmer is a moment that can calm the nervous system by evoking positive emotions such as joy, safety, or connection. A glimmer contrasts with a trigger: an external event that activates our nervous system’s “fight or flight” response, causing emotions such as anxiety, panic, or despair.
Winter Blues, SAD & Holiday Stress
“Tis the season to be jolly!” We may be caught up in the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations, or sprinkling salt to prepare for the next snowfall. Perhaps the sparkling snow, festive lights, nostalgic memories, or the thought of sledding down that brisk slope awakens that winter cheer. The elements associated with winter weather are known to impact our mood and behaviors. Maybe you: experience periods of grief from lost loved ones, internalize holiday stress, or generally refer to yourself as going into “hibernation mode.” Perhaps you have a case of the “winter blues;” or some mild feelings of sadness or lethargy. General increases in depression are linked to a decreased exposure to sunlight and colder temperatures. Are you someone who experiences an increase of sadness, sluggishness, depression, or hopelessness over the winter season? If you notice a pattern of more intense and persistent symptoms related to low mood, or depression that significantly disrupt your everyday functioning such as work, school, social relationships, and overall quality of life, you may want to consult with your provider about Seasonal Affective Disorder. A combination of treatments can help alleviate those symptoms, such as psychotherapy, medication management, and light therapy. See https://www.psychiatry.org/Patients-Families/Seasonal-Affective-Disorder for more information on SAD.
The Pursuit for a Glimmer
Glimmers can be found throughout the day including:
-simply noticing or appreciating a small aspect of a fleeting moment
-intentionally noticing something that gives you joy
-mindfully staying present
-recalling a safe and pleasant memory
-actively engaging in a positive activity that creates some positive energy or mood
Whether you’re experiencing the “winter blues,” are diagnosed with seasonal affective disorder, or find yourself lost in the hustle and bustle of the winter rush, we can look for ways to encounter a glimmer. Some ways to add more glimmers to your life include writing down glimmers you notice for your future self, keeping a gratitude journal, or seeking out activities that bring you joy or that offer positive connections with others.
Here are some examples of glimmers:
1. Feeling the warm ray of sunlight momentarily peeking through the clouds
2. The smell of fresh brewed coffee or the scent of pine
3. Noticing the warm and joyful laughter of a child or someone you love
4. Recalling safe and pleasant moments from your past
5. Petting your cat, dog, or other pet
6. Feeling the soft texture of a blanket or sweater
7. Noticing how the holiday lights nearby sparkle
8. Appreciating a moment of silence
9. Going outside or walking through nature
10. Taking a slow, intentional deep breath
11. Reminding yourself of something positive, such as, “I am safe.”
12. Acknowledging an effort you’ve made today
13. Listening to a song
14. Hearing from or seeing a loved one
15. Reflecting on a quote that evokes positive emotions
For more insight on the concept of “glimmers,” you can refer to: https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-a-glimmer-5323168
Wavering Light on a Cold Winter’s Night
by Alexandra Abell
The darkness takes over,
my heart grows somber.
Can I take this for any longer?
Search for a glimmer, a glimpse of light.
How the moon sparkles on a cold winter’s night.
My heart is sinking, heavy and weighted,
The glow on my face is heavily faded.
Soak in the laughter of a sweet, happy baby.
A heart filled with love, in an instance, just maybe.
Hold onto the moment and keep it forever,
Examine its worth like fine buried treasure.
Memories fade as if sneaking away,
Search for relief on this cold winter’s day.
Writing and art to capture the moment,
to keep it alive when your feelings grow dormant.
Hold it tight, and don’t let it go,
Bask in and savor, to keep in your soul.
Carry on forward through night and day.
The little glimmers are here to stay.
Encounter the ones that go unnoticed,
Acknowledge their worth,
Capture and hold it.
