This practice comes from February 2021’s Week of Awakening and seems perfect for an end of year release. Obviously, this simple practice can be done anytime and perhaps may be useful to do before bed each night.
This can be done even if you have no idea if or what is needed to be released. It is a practice in attuning to our bodies, hearts and minds without overthinking. Perhaps that is what is needed to be released – overthinking!
One other important point is that even though we aspire to release, this letting go is a process, especially if it is related to a hurt or something we’ve carried for a long time. We carry residue of past pain and when we begin digging into our inner lives, things can unexpectedly arise. So be gentle and kind.
The Practice
- Find a comfortable place to sit or stand for a few minutes
- Take a few deep, slow, conscious breaths in and out of your mouth
- Allow your body to relax while feeling stable and upright
- Allow the breath to be natural and then ask yourself these questions:
- What am I carrying that no long serves me?
- Am I willing to release it even just a little bit?
- Let the questions sink in. Avoid forcing an answer. Wait patiently to hear, see or sense what the wisest part of you reveals.
- If you find that you're not ready to release, that's ok. Gently say this, "May I aspire to someday release that which no longer serves me."