The human brain isn’t the largest brain among mammals, but it is the most complex. So humans are able to process the concept of ‘choice,’ which leads to second-guessing and criticize ourselves (especially at dark-thirty, around 4 a.m.) Energy spent rethinking actions is one of the biggest drains on our lives. Letting go of choices—or judgments– frees up energy and redirects it as a positive life force.
Beating yourself up about some past action? Write yourself a forgiveness letter. Try this brief template: “Dear self, I did X because it was what I needed to do at the time. I learned. I forgive myself. I’m letting go of judgment.” Add the details that you need, to process and let go. Take the letter and destroy it—burn it, shred it, bury it. Breathe deeply and release judgment into the cosmos.
Practice this mantra: “Let go and stop judging myself—I’m doing the best I can.”
Copyright © 2010 by Ann Dunnewold and Diane Sanford, authors of Life Will Never Be The Same: The Real Mom's Postpartum Survival Guide.
