Why let go?

Today I practiced letting go, and it made me think about why I recommend this practice for your mental health and wellness. And, that said, how do you do it?

My day was spent as one of many vendors in a flea market and I offered a lot of possessions that belonged to me, to my late husband and sister-in-law, both of whom were collectors. So I had all sorts of memorabilia -- Mickey Mantle, Marilyn Monroe, rock 'n' roll magazines and posters. I had Christmas stuff, vintage jewelry, random household goods. I put it all up for sale and, happily, sent some of that stuff on its way to new owners who will cherish their new item as it had been. That made it so much easier. Let it go. Pay it forward.

How else can you "let go"? Well, when I learned from a customer today who noticed my record collection was a lot like another vendor's but the other guy was selling the albums for eight times the price I was asking, I had to let go of a lot -- humiliation, self-reproach, anger. Turned out that vendor was selling albums he'd bought from me before the 10:00 a.m. opening-to-the-public start time. I had a moment. But then, I reminded myself that I got the fair price I asked and I reduced the amount of my stuff, one of my primary reasons for subjecting myself to something I really don't like doing (tag sales/flea markets).

Letting go of emotions can be just as hard as letting go of possessions.

I had a lot of help from my family. Letting go of pride as I admit to myself that I could never have done this without their help is another healthy practice. It's not just pride; it's really a false sense of myself that is outdated by a good decade or two. So, letting go of stories I've long told myself about my capabilities is a more honest way to live.

There are lots of things to let go of: possessions, emotions, old beliefs. The more you can let go, the more room you make for clarity and quieting. Every new day, year or decade brings you an opportunity to grow into who you are now. And every new day brings you an opportunity to let go of what weighs you down, what holds you back or what no longer serves you.

Peace and love to you in the week ahead.