Have you ever contemplated surrendering to the unexpected? It’s something I’ve been reflecting on and practicing this year. At the beginning of 2024, I never would have guessed that this year’s internal work would be around the practice of surrendering. I started 2024 with a set plan of what I wanted to achieve, and I can easily say that things have not gone as planned. As 2024 is winding down, I’ve been reflecting on how my life has shifted and changed in many unexpected ways. And to my surprise, the year has turned out to be far better than I had hoped or planned for. The act of surrendering has been defined by The Britannica Dictionary as, “to agree to stop fighting, hiding, resisting, etc.”. It can be uncomfortable letting go and allowing life to unfold in an unplanned way. It is even more difficult if you struggle with anxiety. Anxiety can be triggered by the unknown and uncertainty. When we practice surrendering, we allow ourselves to fall into the flow of uncertainty, which can be scary. Surrendering requires that we release and let go of who or what we thought we were and allow what is. When we surrender and go with the flow, we don’t have to work hard because we are not engaging in self-sabotage or unhealthy behaviors. Surrendering and going with the flow of life allows us to drop the ego, and to be led by something greater than ourselves that knows the way to happiness and better health. When we practice surrendering, we make choices from a space of faith and trust in a force greater than us. And this faith and trust leads us to new experiences and opportunities that make us happier and healthier. When practicing surrendering and flowing with life, it can be helpful to use mindfulness techniques and gratitude. When we practice mindfulness, the world slows down. Our own happiness and health become our number one priority. Others’ expectations of us and the things that don’t bring us joy lose their power over us. Anxiety is quieter and as a result there are less feelings of urgency throughout the day. Slowing down and savoring the fleeting moments becomes pleasurable and grounding, and we naturally surrender and flow with life. The more we practice surrendering and flowing, the more we trust ourselves and our ability to face the unexpected and uncertainty. Through this increased trust we feel more confident that everything will work out in our favor. And with this confidence, we continue to willingly practice surrendering and go with the flowing, and that often leads to even more unexpected and happy experiences to feel grateful for. So, what’s one way you can practice surrendering and going with the flow in your own life? Image Ivan Vranic /Unsplash
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AuthorChristina is a Psychotherapist in private practice. She supports residents in both Kansas and California. Archives
October 2024
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