Simple Ways to Shed the Old

Letting go of the old can be hurtful. It's like claws leaving a mark on your skin. It's real easy to put those old habits on the back burner but not worth the stuck residue it will leave behind. The first step is to set the intention to let go. Perhaps write a mantra or word phrase and repeat it several times during the day. You can combine it with a breathing meditation. For example, breathe in for a count of four, then retain the breath and silently repeat your mantra. Exhale the breath for a count of four, retain the breath and repeat the mantra again.

Letting go of old ways may also require forgiveness. If you hold on to grudges it's like feeding yourself poison. You'll feel pretty sick after awhile. Besides, there are not just physical benefits to forgiving but also spiritual ones. The Lord's Prayer includes the line, "Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors."

Practicing mindful meditation is another simple way to shed the old. This is a powerful way to let go of past thoughts and old scenarios. In addition, remaining present sharpens the mind and reduces stress.

Albeit remaining present is noble and beneficial, you also need to move forward. Having a goal that reaches beyond you is very helpful in the letting go process. A powerful way to meet your goal is to create a vision board and hang it in a place you spend time in. The repeated image works subliminally and has a tremendous impact on seeing your goal to fruition.

Make a point of mindfully speaking up instead of holding things in. This simple approach goes a long way to release stress while you are in the process of releasing the old. Growth can be an erratic forward movement: two steps forward and one step back. Let go, have patience, and trust the process.