Christmas Glimmers Without Religion
Glimmers are small, fleeting moments of light, hope, or joy, often found in the midst of hardship or struggle. Think of them as the opposite of triggers. These moments can feel like a breath of fresh air—tiny sparks of beauty or peace that break through the heaviness of difficult times. The term "glimmer" was coined by therapist Deb Dana, who uses it to describe those moments of relief or connection that provide a sense of calm or grounding. Rather than focusing solely on what’s difficult, glimmers invite us to recognize the subtle, uplifting experiences that can help us heal and find balance. They serve as reminders that even in the darkest moments, light is still present, just waiting to be noticed. Just like the Winter Solstice🌞✨
And when you are in a season that has so much baggage and triggers, like leaving a high control religion, looking for glimmers this Christmas can really be a lifeline. What if you allowed yourself to savor those tiny moments of peace and hope? By shifting your focus, even just a little, you could begin to reclaim your own version of the season—one that holds space for both the struggle and the sparks of beauty. What if embracing those small, hopeful moments could change how you feel about the holidays, giving you a sense of power over how you choose to experience this time?
Here are 10 ways to activate Christmas Glimmers (without religion):
1. Christmas Lights Stroll
There’s something so peaceful about walking through a neighborhood lit up with twinkling lights. The glow against the dark sky feels warm, almost like the world is pausing to breathe for a moment. It’s a quiet way to appreciate the beauty of the season, with no pressure.
2. Sip on a Warm Beverage
Imagine curling up with a steaming mug of hot chocolate or this Winter Solstice Golden Milk, the warmth of the cup in your hands as you take that first sip. The flavors—maybe a hint of cinnamon or ginger—fill your senses, creating that cozy, content feeling that lingers long after you finish the drink.
3. Cozy Up with a Blanket
Wrap yourself up in a soft, fluffy blanket and let the world outside fade away for a bit. With a candle flickering nearby and the room bathed in soft light, there’s a simple kind of magic in this quiet moment of peace and comfort.
4. Watch a Winter-Themed Movie
Sometimes, the best way to embrace the season is with a feel-good winter movie. Whether it’s the charm of Frozen or the cozy magic of The Holiday, these films have a way of reminding you of the simple joys of winter—like cozy fires, snowy streets, and spending time with people you care about.
5. Bake Something Fun
Baking can be the ultimate way to fill your space with warmth and good vibes. The smell of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom filling the air as these sun-shaped cookies bake in the oven is just… cozy. And the best part? Getting to enjoy those treats afterward, maybe while sipping on a cup of tea or coffee.
6. Decorate with Nature
Winter decorations don’t have to be about the holidays themselves—they can just be about the season. Think pinecones, snowflakes, and little touches of nature. It’s nice how a simple wreath made of greenery or a small, decorated tabletop tree can instantly bring the outdoors in, giving your home a fresh, wintery vibe.
7. Listen to Holiday Music
If you're in the mood for some holiday cheer without the religious undertones, throw on some upbeat songs like “Jingle Bells” or “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” The familiar tunes are lighthearted and full of fun energy, making it easy to get into the festive spirit. Want the perfect Deconstructed Christmas playlist? Click here.
8. Exchange Thoughtful, Simple Gifts
Gift-giving doesn’t have to be big or extravagant to be meaningful. Something like a jar of homemade jam, these Christmas Ornament Wishes, or even just a handwritten note can carry so much more weight than a flashy gift. It’s really about showing someone you’ve been thinking of them, you see them, and you care.
9. Choosing Words for the Season
The holiday season doesn’t have to follow the same patterns you’ve known in the past, especially if you’re redefining what Christmas means to you. Take a moment to set your own intentions for the season—decide how you want to feel, what you want to focus on, and what traditions (if any) you want to embrace. You can try these Simmer Pots filled with your intentions or making Winter Solstice Wishing Logs (LINK) for a fun ritual idea. It’s about taking back your power and choosing what resonates with you now, whether that’s creating new rituals (like celebrating Winter Solstice), spending time with people who uplift you, or simply honoring a time of rest.
10. Get Reflective
The end of the year is a perfect time to pause and reflect on all that’s happened—both the wins and the challenges. Take a moment to write down what you’ve accomplished, no matter how big or small. Think about the lessons you’ve learned, the relationships you’ve nurtured, and the growth you’ve experienced to help you acknowledge how far you’ve come, appreciate your resilience, and create a sense of closure as you step into the new year. It’s like giving yourself a moment to celebrate your own journey.
Remember, the real work is about adding to the experience of life. It’s about creating space for both the hard parts and the moments of peace. The goal is to hold both—the pain and the joy—together, side by side. Imagine holding both in your hands: the grief, the loss, the triggers, but also the gratitude, the small joys, and the glimmers of hope. You don’t have to pretend the tough stuff doesn’t exist (or try to cure yourself out of being a human), but you can make room for the beauty, too. And in doing so, you can find a more authentic, balanced way to move through the season.
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