Letting Go: How Small Rituals Can Help You Release and Find Peace
October is a time of transition—the leaves change color, the days get shorter, and we’re reminded that nothing in life is permanent. As nature shows us how to gracefully let go, we too are invited to release what no longer serves us. But let’s be real—letting go is easier said than done. Whether it’s an old grudge, a past hurt, or even the idea of perfection, we often hold on tightly, thinking that if we let go, we’ll lose something essential.
Here’s the twist: letting go is not about losing. It’s about gaining space for something new.
Think of letting go as a way to declutter your mind and heart. Just like you might clean out your closet to make room for a new favorite sweater, releasing emotional baggage makes space for growth, joy, and clarity. And the best part? You don’t have to do it all at once. Letting go can be fun and even playful when you approach it as part of your daily rituals.
3 Playful Rituals for Letting Go:
1. Write & Release: Grab a piece of paper and write down what’s been weighing you down—fears, worries, or negative thoughts. Once you’ve written it all out, tear the paper into small pieces, and let the wind or water carry them away. Let the act of releasing the paper be symbolic of your emotional release. (Personally, we like to light it on fire.)
2. Breathe It Out: When life feels heavy, sometimes all it takes is a good deep breath. Try this: Inhale for four counts, hold for four, and exhale for six. With every exhale, imagine releasing stress or tension from your body. Feel lighter with each breath.
3. Seasonal Shift: As the seasons change, take a moment to reflect on what no longer fits in your life. It could be a habit, a mindset, or even an expectation. Light a candle, focus on what you want to release, and let the warmth of the flame help melt away the resistance.
Why Letting Go Matters
Holding on to things that no longer serve us—whether it’s past failures, unrealistic expectations, or old narratives—keeps us stuck. It’s like carrying around a backpack full of rocks. The longer we carry it, the heavier it feels. Letting go is like slowly taking out one rock at a time until you feel light again.
Incorporating simple rituals, like those above, can transform letting go from something scary into something empowering. These rituals remind us that we are capable of change and growth, even when the world feels chaotic. And in doing so, we find peace within ourselves.
So, as you step into October, give yourself permission to release. Play with the idea of letting go and watch how much space you create for joy, creativity, and peace.
