“Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don’t resist them – that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.” – Lao-Tzu
I am the first to admit that I am still a work in progress. As much as I am practicing letting go and flowing forward when challenges arise, I can still get a little bent out of shape when things do not go my way. For example, this past Sunday I had dedicated the day to writing a module for an upcoming class I was facilitating. I created the perfect peaceful morning routine to set the energy and uphold my intention. I meditated, sank into prayerfulness, ran my energy and received downloads of guidance from my team. After spending several hours in preparation, channeling, and in front of my computer, there was a power outage and I lost all that I had been creating.
The power outage lasted for most of the day. I was angry, disappointed, and a little stressed. I swore A LOT, cried a little, and worried about how I was going to manage to get the module done in time for the class on Wednesday. Not the best way to handle things, is it? Well after the initial upset and what felt like 'a waste of a good writing day', I realized that I needed to flow with the disruption instead of resenting it. I put the words of Thich Nhat Hanh into practice, "Smile, breathe, and go slowly". Once I did, I regained a sense of control over my negative reaction and put my trust back into the Universe. I know deep down there is a purpose for everything under Heaven and for me, this was a solid lesson in learning to 'go with the flow'.
I imagine that most of us have problems like this, with things that disrupt our plans, how we like things, when something changes we are used to, or when life doesn’t go the way we want it to go. We don’t control the universe, and yet somedays, I am sure we all wish we could.
Here are (3)-practical and magical steps to help you to go with the flow when 'the power goes out' in your world.
- Breathe. When you feel yourself getting angry or frustrated, take a deep, conscious breath. Take a few. This is a simple and an important step as it helps to calm down your nervous system. It helps you to find your way back to center.
- Move your body. Walk away, go outside, stretch, dance and shake off the funk. If something has disrupted your ability to flow, use movement to healthfully express the pent up energy instead of acting out in unhealthy, ego ways.
- Get perspective. This always helps me. Zoom out, become an observer to gain a broader view of things. Then whatever has happened doesn't seem like the end of the world. It also gives you a chance to receive some insight from your guides as to how to best handle the situation.
I didn't get the module done in time for the class, but I was guided to reschedule our gathering to next Wednesday instead. I am so grateful for the loving and wonderful group I am working with who completely understood, offered kind and supportive words, and were open to going with the flow!