Last week a friend told me she wanted to work on letting go of the past. What she really meant was that she wanted to “get over the past.” I knew what she meant because I had tried to do that in my life too. After all, in yoga we’re always talking about “being present” - so shouldn’t I get over my past?

This way of thinking can actually reinforce and retrigger trauma if we think we should just “get past” our past. What has helped me the most is owning my stories. Talking about the past with others that are available to listen and mirror back to me, “Yes, that was hard, and you had every right to feel the way you felt.” This is where compassion is invaluable. When I am able to own the stories of my past with compassion, I’m able to lovingly honor all that’s brought me to this moment. My past experiences no longer have power over me in the present and in my future.

And then Presence naturally arises. My current relationships and actions are informed by my past and what I’ve learned, AND I easily tap into present-moment-fully-resourced-adult-Holly who can move forward with grace and compassion. I am grateful for a yoga practice that helps me foster this healthy version of “letting go” to build authenticity, love and peace in my life and the world.