The Art of Letting Go:
Emotional Wellness and Reflection in Autumn
The first few raindrops today and the many fallen orange leaves feel so rejuvenating after a long summer on the West Coast. Even though my mind might be pulled in many different directions, my body senses a strong desire to shed and let go of everything that no longer serves me—just like the trees shedding their leaves this month.
In the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, the term Aparigraha, the fifth yama, means "non-attachment" or "non-grasping". While it’s often applied to material possessions, it also extends to letting go of emotional patterns, behaviors, and, especially, people we love when they no longer bring positive energy into our lives. This practice, however, is incredibly difficult and requires ongoing effort. Letting go—whether of things, emotions, or relationships—takes time and mastery. It’s hard work we are all constantly doing.
“Letting go gives us freedom, and freedom is the only condition for happiness.”
Over the years, I have found a few favorite tools for practicing the art of letting go.
Journaling and Mindful Reflection
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Journaling and mindful reflection are powerful tools for this practice. It’s eye-opening when we put our thoughts on paper and revisit them, answering our own questions.
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A few of my favorite prompts this season are:
What am I holding on to that no longer serves me?
What can I release to invite more peace into my journey?
Breathwork and Meditation
Breathwork and meditation I like to keep it simple with the 4-7-8 breathing technique:
Exhale through your mouth, making a whoosh sound.
Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose for a count of 4.
Hold your breath for a count of 7.
Exhale through your mouth, making a whoosh sound, for a count of 8.
That’s one breath. Now inhale again and repeat the cycle three more times for a total of four breaths.
Yoga Poses for Letting Go
A few of my favorite yoga poses for practicing release but also in general are Child’s Pose, Forward Folds, and some deep, juicy twists.
In my daily life I try to set boundaries.
Saying no to commitments that drain my energy and distancing myself from unhealthy relationships can make a big difference.I practised this this a lot last year and I am getting all the benefits now:)
Letting Go of Physical Things: Recently, I decided to let go of my car. I no longer have one, and it’s been so freeing and relieving. I could not have imagined this feeling if you had told me beforehand! Now, I walk more, or I borrow Alex’s or my son’s car. I love the freedom, but even more, I love the connection I have when Panos, my son, drives me. It’s our time to really connect, with no devices in the way.
Affirmations: Affirmations are powerful tools for letting go. A couple of my favorites are:
I am boundless, limitless. (I had written this one on my bathroom’s mirror with my lipstick couple of years ago)
I release everything that I have no control over.
I am creating new space for more adventures
I hope you can find these simple practices helpful in your busy lives. You will feel lighter, brighter, more open, and limitless. I am getting all these feelings as I am writing this blog. Above all, after letting go, you’ll have created space for our beautiful souls. Let’s be mindful of what and who fills that space.
Wishing us all a peaceful, clear start to the fall season. I’d love to hear your thoughts, ideas, and what has worked for you in the past when practicing the art of letting go.
Love & Peace,
Katerina
P.S I’m excited to start sharing a few of my favorite things each month!
What I’m currently reading and loving: The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker. I’m savoring every page and don’t want it to end…(buy on Amazon)
My favorite new family meal: Glazed black cod with bok choy and rice recipe from NY cooking times here. Made it last night. It’s a quick, 20-minute prep, and not only is it incredibly delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrition."
XPLOREFIT WELLNESS GUIDE
For more effective strategies to ease stress and let go do not forget to check the XPLOREFIT wellness guide HERE. Released last month and it's my gift to all of you. Please feel free to share it with your loved ones.
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