Glimmers and Anchors in Polyvagal Theory and in the Bible

In my last 3 posts I have discussed Polyvagal Theory,  the work of Professor of Psychiatry Stephen Porges and now I turn to the practice of Deb Dana, psychotherapist who specialises in this, and coined the terms Glimmers and Anchors.  

In therapy Glimmers are about exploring recent pleasant memories. This triggers the Ventral Vagus Nerve, as explained in my last blog, bringing a parasympathetic state to the Autonomic Nervous System. 

The Bible is rich in imagery of Glimmers. The world's most famous Psalm and the late Queen Elizabeth's favourite is Psalm 23. 
And if we focus on verses 2a and 3b, we see this clearly:
 

"He leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul."

Using Biblical Glimmers is so powerful because the Lord's Word is living and active. God grants us peace. 

These neurological pathways can be used again and again creating Anchors. Again this is Biblical: Hebrews 6.19 

"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure."

I will explain further next time, how neurological pathways can be developed and can address circular worry, as mentioned in a recent blog post of mine. 

Bible Quotations from the NIV.
Copyright Susie Scott Kydd 2026