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Letting Go. Finding Peace.

To let go of the past does not mean to rid yourself of the past. To let go is part of letting things be, and to take whatever learnings we’ve gained and assimilate them as we move forward.

Letting go of expectations: Are there situations in your life where letting go of a desired outcome could improve the outcome? In the Yoga traditions there is an important teaching of doing the things you have to do, of doing your work, without the expectation of an outcome. Just to do it fully. Nothing in life is guaranteed, and when our expectations or needs aren’t met in life, we can respond irrationally or inappropriately. Improving our reactions starts with setting respectful boundaries and letting go.

Let go of control: We often try to control things because of what we think will happen if we don’t. By letting go, we open ourselves to wonderful possibilities that aren’t there when we’re attached to one “right” path. Surrendering rather than resisting reality creates acceptance for what is, and the faith that things will be okay on their own; the energy of surrender accomplishes much more than the energy of control.

Letting go of the past: Replaying the past over and over again doesn’t change it, and wishing things were different doesn’t help either. In some cases, especially when it comes to the past, accepting whatever it is you’re holding on to and letting it go is the key to change. You have to let go of what is hurting you, even through resistance. Letting go of these thoughts and emotions promotes a sense of self — a self that isn’t defined by your past, but by who you want to be.

Letting go will spark a momentum towards rebalance. There are new possibilities waiting for you when you are ready to be open to them. We can practice letting go even in Yoga postures, to see what happens when we breathe, and try not to control the outcome. What then does the pose teach us?

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