Tend To Yourself Thursday {9/26}: A Tool To Help With Letting Go
As autumn paints the world in hues of change, I’m drawn to reflect on one of life’s lessons: discerning between what we can and cannot control. Many of us here are empathic, and with that gift often comes the burden of finding ourselves overly invested in other people’s journeys and well-being. This season offers a powerful metaphor for our own path of growth and release.
Many of us struggle with the tendency to overextend ourselves in relationships, to take on others’ problems as our own, or to believe we can (or should) fix everything around us. This pattern, while rooted in care and empathy (and often trauma), can leave us feeling drained and disconnected from our self and our own needs.
In my own journey of healing from these patterns, I’ve found immense comfort and guidance in the Serenity Prayer:
“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
Courage to change the things I can,
And the wisdom to know the difference.”
(For those who prefer, feel free to replace “God” with Universe, Higher Self, or any concept of something greater that resonates with you.)
Notice how simply bringing the energy and intent of these words into your awareness feels.
Here’s a simple practice to go deeper:
The Autumn Serenity Reflection:
- Find a quiet moment and settle into a comfortable position.
- Take a few deep breaths, imagining the crisp autumn air filling your lungs.
- Reflect on a situation in your life where you might be overextending yourself.
- Ask yourself:
- What aspects of this situation can I change?
- What aspects are beyond my control?
- How can I sit with any discomfort around where that leaves me?
As you move through this season of change, I invite you to return to this reflection whenever you feel overwhelmed or caught in the cycle of trying to control the uncontrollable. Remember, letting go isn’t about indifference; it’s about creating space for authentic connection and self-care.
If you’re finding this process challenging, or if you’d like to explore how these patterns show up in your life, remember that I’m here to support you on your journey.
Until next Thursday, trust in this cycle of seasons, that you can practice releasing what’s beyond your control..
Warmly,
Elana