Glimmers and Gratitude
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH UNLIKELY COLLABORATORS
Authors, artists, a neuroscientist, and a wellness mentor explore glimmers—the small, subtle moments of joy, safety, or calm that act as the opposite of trauma triggers.
Research shows that noticing small, everyday wonders can reshape our brains, strengthen emotional resilience, and deepen our sense of meaning. Dr. Modupe Abidakun shares how one powerful moment changed her understanding of gratitude.
Written by Dr. Modupe Abidakun • Illustrations by Alissa Thaler • Managing Editor Jessi Cape
Noticing glimmers can help regulate the nervous system, support recovery from trauma, and rebuild self-compassion. Writer Karen Fischer shares how rediscovering a beloved voice changed her healing journey.
Written by Managing Editor Jessi Cape • Illustrations by Annie B. McCall
DOCUMENTARY:The Science of Glimmers and Gratitude
A short documentary exploring glimmers—micro-moments of regulation that foster feelings of well-being—and the science of gratitude, featuring neuroscientist Dr. Mary Helen Immordino-Yang and global wellness guide Adriene Mishler.
Produced with a grant by Unlikely Collaborators • Exec Producer/Camera Rob VanAlkemade • Series Producer Erika Paige Barnette • Associate Producer Nahima Shaffer • Camera Jessie Adler • Series Editor Jae Shim • Creative Director Jennymarie Jemison • Music by East Forest
"The brain and the body are incredibly tightly coupled. A single quiet moment can shift how the whole body feels. Noticing glimmers in the world is potentially a really important path forward to well-being.”
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