The "Bigger Yes"

As autumn arrives, we’re often inspired by nature’s brilliant display of transformation. Trees shed their leaves in a vibrant dance of letting go, a poignant reminder of the impermanence of life. This season of change invites us to reflect on what we need to release in our own lives. Yet, instead of solely focusing on the act of letting go, what if we shifted our attention to what we’re creating space for?

What are you a bigger “Yes” for?

Of course, it can be important to have a practice for digesting, composting, and releasing the patterns that no longer serve you. Autumn's natural shedding of leaves symbolizes a profound process of release and renewal. As trees prepare for winter, they let go of their old foliage, making way for new growth in the spring. Similarly, in our lives, we often need to let go of outdated beliefs, unproductive habits, past resentments, or draining relationships to make room for something new.

Focusing on what we are releasing, however, can often manifest in “should-ing all over ourselves.”

It often sounds like:

“I shouldn’t drink today.”

Or “I should stop watching so much TV”

Or “I shouldn’t text my ex,”

But rather than focusing on what we are a “No” for, focus on the “Bigger Yes.” 

If you are wanting to cut down on alcohol, remember that you are a “YES” for clear-headed mornings and being present in your life. 

If you are wanting to shift the habit of watching so much TV and instead move your body more, for example, remember that you are a “YES” for feeling strong so that you can do all of the magical things you want to do in the world.

If you are unhooking from a toxic relationship, remember that you are a “YES” for self-love, (or at the very least, a “YES” for practicing self-neutrality and not abandoning yourself).

By concentrating on what we’re saying “Yes” to, we can transform the process of letting go into an empowering act of making room for growth and new opportunities.

When we focus on what we are a “Yes” for, we remind ourselves that we “exist at choice,” at least to some degree. Of course, we are impacted by larger systems, our trauma history, the ability of our bodies, but we can find the corners of power that we do have, and find our “Bigger Yes.”

Another lovely question to ask yourself is “What am I creating space for?”

Perhaps you are wanting to create space for the energies of love, ease, flow, peace, connection with nature, or connection.

What do these energies feel like in your body? What are the internal blocks to what you want more of? Can you feel those in your body? Can you imagine dissolving those blocks? 

As we get deeper into September, look to the trees for inspiration. What no longer serves you?  Resentments? A stagnant or toxic relationship? An addiction or habit that feels out of alignment with who you are/want to be?

If you can hold the larger energy of the “Bigger Yes,” it might make the practice of letting go a little more gentle.