Anyone that’s done any backpacking, for however short a distance, will be constantly reminded of one thing: the ton weight that’s clamped to their back. You count down the minutes to the next station/hotel/café/roadside boulder so you can unbuckle yourself from the heft and sweet-talk your spine into rebuilding itself.
Yet far fewer of us are aware of the emotional burdens we shoulder, which we may have been carrying for years, decades or even a lifetime. Dwelling on past events or worrying about future ones or allowing ourselves to be overwhelmed by feelings of anger, bitterness or resentment can have a damaging effect on our lives, and releasing such emotional baggage could be one of the kindest things we can do for ourselves.
Benefits of Letting Go
When we let go, we…
- get out of our head
- improve our mental and physical health
- handle stress a lot better
- become more resilient
- grow in confidence
- improve our relationships with others
So how, then, to let go? Below are some useful techniques you can use to release anything that may be weighing you down. By putting some of these into practice, you may find any burdens you have begin to ease and that you move through life a little lighter and happier.
Find inner peace
Be mindful and stay in the moment. Observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment, confronting any emotions that may arise.
Find acceptance
Acknowledge we are unable to change the past, and have limited control over the future. Instead, focus on controlling your reaction to what life throws at you. As you relinquish control, enjoy the sense of freedom this gives you.
Find meaning
Try to see some value in any negative past events. What have they given you? Did you learn a lesson from them? Are you stronger or more patient because of them, for example? If it helps, write it all down.
Find an outlet
Look for ways you can process any challenging thoughts or emotions. Art, music or journalling can all be useful to work through anything you’re holding on to.
Find time for yourself
Do things that make you happy and nurture your wellbeing. The happier you can make yourself, the stronger you will be to deal with any emotional baggage you may have. Go easy on yourself. Accept that letting things go may be a gradual process, but if you persevere, know that you’ve taken some steps in the right direction and are on the path to a burden-free life of wellness.
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