Do you try to plan and control everything and everyone in your life? I don’t mean in a bad way. As educators, parents, or just plain people it is kind of our job! It is drilled into us at work to plan for what IS happening, what might happen, and what just hit the fan. As humans we’ve had control issues programmed into us since birth. Religion, social ranking, and the ever present media lecturing us about controling our weight and wrinkles, leaves no room for Letting Go.

Letting Go?! Dear God, what is this maddness? All hell could break loose if I didn’t plan my and your every move.

Or would it?

Think about a time when you were spontaneous. Or so tired you could have cared less so you gave in to The Flow.

That’s right The Flow!

Recall an easy, surprising, or non catastrophic time in your life when you just showed up and Allowed things to unfold.

Were you in a place of Mindfulness where you could observe and respond with loving kindness? Or were you uncomfortable?

Look I am not talking about never showering or paying bills again. I am talking about things like when your lesson plans for an important class get put on hold because you recognize that your students need something else that day. You teach to the moment by reading the room, living in flow, letting go, trusting your intuitive thoughts and feelings. That truly is being Present with yourself and others. If the reverse happens and we ignore that intuitive nudge then likely you’ve experienced a lack luster lesson and semi-engaged kiddos. Come to think of it you were probably bored with the lesson as well.

Practice Letting Go this week in small ways. If a project is thoroughly frustrating, put a pin in it. Go do something creative, fun, or relaxing. When you come back to the project it will be easier or the Universe may be trying to tell you something. Maybe to pause, change directions, ask for help, or meditate on it.

Mindfulness is a gift to yourself. You can make plans. But, when life tosses you a curve ball catch it! Take a breath, smile and be curious instead of frustrated. Toss the ball back and see what happens next.

You never know what interesting or lovely lesson might be waiting for you to discover.

It can be as simple as allowing others to take the lead, make the plans, and you get to move through it as a partner in flow because you Let Go.

If you are on Winter vacation it is a great time to practice Letting Go and living in Flow but you can do it anytime and everywhere.

Letting Go and Living in Flow are self-care practices. Give to yourself and others this experience. And be gentle with yourself. It takes time. Have fun with it!

Gratefully,

Mary