Day 9 - Shimmer

Since before the pandemic, Patrick and I meet every Thursday morning with Linda and Liane to reflect on one of the Sunday readings. We refer to this time as Shimmer but it is based on a spiritual practice started by monks over a thousand years known as Lectio Divina. It can be done with any sacred text, poem, or passage. In a nutshell, we prayerfully read the passage aloud three times. The first time is for reflecting on the surface meaning of the text. The second time is to reflect on the word or phrase that shimmers or resonates with your heart. The third time is followed by a period of silence to allow the words to soak into your bones. Here's more about it by Cynthis Bourgeault, if you want to give it a try:

https://wisdomwayofknowing.org/resource-directory/lectio-divina-sacred-reading/

Today I offer a second practice known as Glimmers. It is a little like Lectio Divina except instead of focusing on a written text, you focus on any experience that touches your heart. When these special moments occur, you intentionally savor the experience and allow it to soak into your bones. Here's more about it by clinician Deb Dana:

Practical ways to implement glimmers daily:

1. Take a personal inventory. Use Deb Dana’s Triggers and Glimmers Template to identify your biggest triggers and glimmers (Dana also recommends creating a “menu” of glimmers, so you have plenty to select from).

2. Grab the headphones. Make a playlist of music that evokes feelings of peacefulness.

3. Assemble the scents. Collect a few of your favorite essential oils or candles and keep them nearby.

4. Get in touch with nature. Go for a walk or try going to the beach to hear the sound of waves crashing on the shore.

5. Curate your social feeds. Follow accounts with calming, peaceful presences, and unfollow accounts with content that might be personally triggering.

6. Plan around your interactions. Primarily connect with people who bring you peace. If you know you’ll connect with someone who triggers you, schedule a calming activity directly after.

7. Constantly evaluate and adjust. Do a self-assessment by asking, “Is this working for me?” What works for others may not work for you, and that’s OK!

Read more here:

https://greatist.com/discover/embracing-your-glimmers#how-to-use-glimmers-effectively