As autumn comes to a close, the last of the leaves part from their branches. Fall’s letting go process beckons us to release our grip.
We cling to so many things – emotions, attitudes, beliefs and perceptions, not to mention the material things that fill our homes. We also clench our jaws and grip our muscles, causing us tension and suffering.
In yoga philosophy, releasing is known as Aparigraha. It literally means non-grasping, non-clinging. It’s time to loosen up our grip and open our hands. Like sand falling between our fingers, there is freedom in releasing our grip on life, especially our grip on control.
Find Your Inner Light
As we soften, open, and release our clinging to controlling ways of being and habits that aren’t serving us, our Divine Self is reveled. You are a spiritual being. While the light dims outside as winter approaches, the light within you longs to be seen and lived. We can find the inner light when we release the clenching, fear, and resistance which blocks us from it.
Seek your inner light. Sit in silent attention, and practice Aparigraha, loosening the tendency to grip in body and mind. Consciously go through each body part and allow it to relax. Feel your heart begin to expand and the sacred illumination shine within you. Trust that it is there. If you take just a few minutes everyday to soften and release the grip, you can reconnect to your soul and begin to remember who you truly are.
Happy solstice.