Glimmers Journal: Reflect on the Small Moments That Bring You Joy, Safety, and Connection

By Deb Dana

Book Overview

First coined in Deb Dana's book Polyvagal Theory in Therapy, "glimmers" are the micromoments in your day that spark a sense of joy. They can be anything from catching a view of the skyline to cuddling with your pet. Glimmers tell your nervous system that you are safe and okay in the world, thus shifting your system's response from defense to calm. When we notice and name glimmers, we train our nervous system to be open to more of these moments--expanding our overall sense of well-being.

This beautiful journal provides a framework for readers to name and savor their glimmers. Expertly crafted prompts encourage readers to notice various types of glimmers that they might otherwise be unaware of--such as glimmers in nature or in the arts, "every day" glimmers, social glimmers, and even the range of glimmer "flavors." Glimmers Journal is for anyone looking to build a foundation of wellness and regulation.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1324082070
• ISBN13: 9781324082071
• Release Date: March 2025
• Publisher: W. W. Norton & Company
• Length: 224 Pages
• Weight: 0.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 5.8" x 7.4"

Customer Reviews

Wellness Counselor Recommendation

This book came to me in perfect, brand new condition. It’s beautiful. Something about the idea of finding “glimmers” is both cheesy and also empowering. Author Deb Dana, talks about Glimmers being “micromoments of regulation that foster feelings of well-being.” “A reminder that the nervous system is exquisitely able to hold both deregulation and regulation.” As a human in the world, a mother, a wife, a trauma victim- I have spent years learning how to be present in my body- and it has been HARD. I truly believe it will be lifelong work. My therapist speaks often about Polyvagal Theory, and had recommended other books by Deb Dana, and recently re-taught me about the idea of glimmers as a way to spend more time being present in my body in a concrete way. I actively journal already, so this book is a great guide. I appreciate the concise introduction, as well as “The Beginner’s Guide to Polyvagal Theory” at the end of the journal- for those who aren’t familiar. Dana makes it easy to digest. The bulk of this book is guided ideas and inspiration for noticing and creating glimmers in everyday life. There are unlined pages for note taking after each list of ideas. This journal feels inspiring and the prompts feel simple enough to “do” even in my current dorsal vagal and sympathetic nervous system state pendulum.