|
On Saturday, I was part of a burning bowl ritual. It entails writing things to let go of
down on a piece of paper and setting it on flames. The ritual is both symbolic and satisfying because it is
tangible and physical. We all
understand the finality of fire.
The list of things to let go of can be as follows:
v Perceptions
of inadequacy
v Anger
or resentment towards others
v Fears
v Feelings
of lack or financial limitations
v General
negativity or depression
In the book The Artist’s Way, there are exercises
like this requiring automatic writing that I always guided my class to tear to
shreds after purging the mental garbage expressed. It may be more practical than setting anything on fire.
My point is that a list or an essay should be written about
all the things you wish to release from your mind, life or consciousness. Then dispose of it in a visually and
physically satisfying way. Afterwards,
walk away from it completely and continue your life free and clear of it.
Another exercise with the same effect is from Amanda
Gore. Imagine having a sack of
potatoes filled with one potato for each resentment and unfortunate thing that
has ever occurred in your life.
Carry the sack around for as long as you can bear it while the potatoes
rot and weigh on you. See how
people react to your carrying such a load on your back and how unattractive
your issues really are.
(www.amandagore.com)
As much as this seems like a recipe, the special ingredient
is your commitment to make it real.
|
