Let it go, let it flow
Maybe I've been spending too much time by the river, but this month's blog has less to do with yoga, and more to do with letting things go!
It's easy to blame lockdown for how we're feeling; and while I don't deny that it's been challenging and had a devastating impact on our mental health and economy, I can't help but wonder if some of our problems started well before COVID-19...
Let me give you an example: Some conversations are difficult, but if I've learned anything this year it's to not leave things unresolved and unsaid - particularly with those closest to you!
Maybe you've convinced yourself that it's not the right time; and it's not really that big of a deal. Maybe you're afraid you'll look foolish or like a failure. Maybe you just don't want to look like you're creating drama.
Or maybe it's something you've been carrying for so long, you're not even sure how, why or whether you should let it out at all!
Then you wake up in a pandemic and realise those things you never said or did will have to go on hold - except now you have to keep the lid screwed on extra tight, because there's already enough going on.
As pressure builds, it's inevitable that those things start to bubble up and look for another way out...
Maybe you withdraw and avoid the whole situation, or lash out in frustration. Maybe you tell yourself to hold on - it will all be over soon and things will settle down again.
But the pandemic goes on and on, and feelings of frustration turn to anger, and the anger creates pain...
After brewing away quietly (and not so quietly) for months there's only one way for it to go, and pretty soon you find it spewing up around you, like a volcano!
In the aftermath you may be left feeling sad and alone, but you also can't help but laugh at the ridiculousness you created.
So, you tell yourself - don't avoid or hold on to things - be like the river, let it flow. The truth always comes out - be brave, and don't wait for a pandemic to take it hostage!
Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them, that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.
- Lao Tzu
