"The Seed Cannot Grow Until It Is Ready to Let Go"

As the vibrantly colored leaves flutter all around us here in Ohio, the idea of "letting go" is a common theme for reflection. Nature is preparing for her big turn inward away from the harsh elements that come with winter. Many of us will also be making preparations for the change of seasons by rotating the clothes in our closets, putting away  patio furniture, and planning indoor activities and gatherings. It's time for us to move our focus from the external to the internal.

Just as the plants and trees shed all but their most essential elements, Autumn is the perfect time for us to assess all the "stuff" in our lives. Personally, I believe that everything that has ever come into our lives has the potential to serve a purpose. The question for us to ask ourselves about the elements of our lives is whether the stuff we hold on to is still serving the purpose of supporting our most essential selves, has the potential to serve that purpose, or is just waiting for us to release it on for "recylcing."

I was looking for a nice inspirational quote about answering that question, "how do you know what to hold on to and what to let go of?" After a quick search, the best I could find was a quote that stated the obvious. In one of his songs, country singer Keith Urban sings "life is a balance of holding on and letting go." It's certainly true but finding that balance can be challenging. I felt like I wanted a little more insight. As I looked up into the beautiful gumball tree in my backyard, I heard the voice of my own heart whisper, "The seed cannot grow until it lets go." The answers to so many questions can only be found inside you... inside your own heart. What is essential? What continues to nourish you? What is depleting you? What is just waiting for you to release it so that it can grow into something new? When the answers become clear, that is the time to act. If they aren't clear yet, hang on a little while longer until the season is just right for your own growth.

This reflection is the inspiration for my yoga class tonight. We'll be doing yoga twists to help cleanse and detoxify the body as well as cultivate clarity and balance in our minds. If you are a student of mine, I look forward to sharing the practice with you and if you would like more information on my classes, please visit www.flourishunlimited.com