Get a glimmer of calm, peace and joy

Contributed by MnFIRE partner, Optum

Most of us are aware of how “triggers” can bring negative emotions and feelings inside us. But do you know what your “glimmers” are? That is, the fleeting moments that give you a sense of calm, peace and joy?

Both manifest physically in your body and affect your mental well-being.

Triggers send a warning of a potential danger to your nervous system. Depending on the threat, you may react with an urge to fight the danger, flee from it, freeze in the face of it or do something to pacify it. This reaction is commonly referred to as the fight, flight, freeze and fawn response. During these times, you feel heightened emotional and physical stress. Too much stress can lead to mental and physical health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, digestive issues and heart problems.

On the other hand, glimmers signal your parasympathetic nervous system, giving you a feeling of safety, calm and connection. When you feel good, your parasympathetic nervous system turns on and tells your nervous system to calm down. So, instead of fight, flight, freeze or fawn, you experience calm, peace and happiness. Glimmers can be anything from the smell and taste of your favorite comfort food, to the sound of your best friend’s laughter, watching squirrels play, the feel of your cool pillow after you flip it over, or whatever else gives you a sense of joy.

Catching glimmers

We are naturally wired to be aware of danger, especially in the fire service. It’s part of our safety defense mechanism and survival instinct. But we can train ourselves to look for these natural “glimmer” stress reducers that give us joy and comfort. While these moments may be brief, they add up. When you practice savoring them, you build up a reservoir of calm and hope that helps steady your nerves in stressful times.

  • Think about what gives you a sense of joy, calm or helps you relax, so you are prepared to recognize the glimmers you experience.
  • Many of us spend time thinking about the past or planning the future. Practice being present in the moment, so you are aware when a glimmer happens.
  • When you spot a glimmer, relish the sensations you feel, knowing it will likely pass quickly.
  • Each day, take time to reflect on the glimmers you encountered. Consider capturing them in a glimmer journal for future reference.
  • Swap glimmer stories with someone you care about to build your bond.

No-cost mental health support

For personalized emotional and mental health support, MnFIRE provides confidential resources funded by the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program (HHAP)  – including counseling visits and peer support – to Minnesota firefighters and their families. These MnFIRE program services target the unique needs of fire service members and are available at no cost. Call 888-784-6634 or click here to learn more and get help.

Sources

Australian Medical Association. Glimmers for mental health. Aug. 19, 2023.

Calm. Glimmers: What they are, why they matter, and 5 ways to find them. Accessed Oct. 18, 2024.

Neurodiversity Education Academy. Know your glimmers. March 26, 2023.

World Experience Organization. The power of glimmers: Designing for psychological safety. Accessed Oct. 18, 2024.

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Heiman Fire Equipment
Meuser, Yackley & Rowland Law Office
TSR Injury Law
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Thanks to all of our 2025 sponsors for making MnFORE a fantastic event for all to enjoy, and most of all, for supporting our state's hometown heroes. See you tomorrow! 🏌️
... See MoreSee Less

Last but not least, we recognize our MnFORE Premier Hole Sponsors: 

Heiman Fire Equipment 
Meuser, Yackley & Rowland Law Office 
TSR Injury Law 
Arko Companies 
Optum 
Restorations by Highmark
The Parr McKnight Wealth Management Group 
PRO Network 

Thanks to all of our 2025 sponsors for making MnFORE a fantastic event for all to enjoy, and most of all, for supporting our states hometown heroes. See you tomorrow! 🏌️

Next, we acknowledge our Driving Range & Cart Sponsors, Farmington Firefighters Relief Association and MacQueen Emergency Solutions! MnFORE wouldn't be the same without you, and we are thankful for your dedication to the health and well-being of Minnesota firefighters. ⛳ ... See MoreSee Less

Next, we acknowledge our Driving Range & Cart Sponsors, Farmington Firefighters Relief Association and MacQueen Emergency Solutions! MnFORE wouldnt be the same without you, and we are thankful for your dedication to the health and well-being of Minnesota firefighters. ⛳

Thanks to our Meal Sponsors, Lindstrom Restoration and MESFire, for keeping us fed and nourished at MnFORE! On top of funding the day's food, your year-round commitment to Minnesota firefighters is admired and appreciated. 🧑‍🚒 ... See MoreSee Less

Thanks to our Meal Sponsors, Lindstrom Restoration and MESFire, for keeping us fed and nourished at MnFORE! On top of funding the days food, your year-round commitment to Minnesota firefighters is admired and appreciated. 🧑‍🚒
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