We go through so much in a day. It’s common to absorb and hold onto things, including emotions. But sometimes we hang on too tightly. We ruminate. We take on the energy in our environment. We carry our doubts, resentments, embarrassments, and worries. We focus on regret and disappointment.
Eventually, this can get heavy. These feelings and emotions are unpleasant. Tension builds up in our bodies. We need to give ourselves permission to let go.
Learning ways to release this tension can help us take care of our well-being. When we let go, we are better able to focus our attention, calm our feelings, and manage stress.
In today’s Wellness Wednesday, we try an activity to let it go.
Try this:
As a class, group, or family:
· Try SMHO’s Let It Go activity. Use these instructions or try one of the links in the “Further Learning” section.
o Sit comfortably and take a deep breath.
o Use your fingers to gently massage the top of your head.
o Still in massaging motion bring your fingers to your forehead, eyebrows, temples, around your eyes, cheeks, and jaw.
o If you notice tension anywhere – let it go.
o Take your time with each area especially where you hold the most tension.
o Finally massage each of your ears and end by gently pulling your earlobes. Slowly work the tension out of your body.
o Next, use a massaging motion to focus on your palm, each finger, and finally your thumb. Switch hands and repeat. Slowly move the tension out of your body.
o Finally, notice any tension that might be still in your body.
o Breathe in, breathe out, and let it go
Ask yourself, there is no wrong answer:
What is one thing I am holding onto?
What can I let go of that no longer serves me?
How do I feel now that I’ve let go of the tension I’m holding in my body?
Connecting to our faith:
“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
Letting go of tension caused by unpleasant feelings and emotions can be an opportunity for us to deepen our understanding that we can surrender our worries and stresses to God. During Lent, we practice giving things up and letting things go. As we release what no longer serve us, we open our hearts to receive God’s grace.
“O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his steadfast love endures forever!” (Psalm 118:1)
Further Learning:
· EDUCATOR VIDEO: Let It Go https://smileldcsbon.sharepoint.com/Resources/MentalHealth/Shared%20Documents/SEL%20VIDEO%20Let%20it%20Go.mp4
· POSTER: (elementary) https://smho-smso.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/SEL-Posters-Let-It-Go.pdf or (secondary) https://smho-smso.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/SEL-Posters-Secondary-Let-It-Go.pdf
· AUDIO: (elementary) https://smho-smso.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/let-it-go.mp3 or (secondary) https://smho-smso.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/let-it-go-1.mp3