Some cultures instruct us to lead our lives using ‘will’ – pushing forward to attain a goal or desire. Others instruct us to become masters in the art of dispossession, which seems to be the opposite of will. We think we need to let go, but fear a state of passive inertia may result. We can transcend these either/or discourses by engaging in reflexive thinking about how to combine letting go with action.

I can use my will, clearly and cleanly to forge an intent, while at the same time relinquishing the struggle to be in control of the steps to the outcome and the outcome itself. Cultivating relaxed attentiveness can assist me to remain open to possibilities along the way, whether it be a change of strategy, incorporation of new ideas, collaborating with others, or revising the original intent.

Like using a roadmap to plan a journey from one place to another, there may be many routes, and, by ‘letting go’ and not forcing, we may choose to take another path that opens possibilities we may never have dreamed of. A flexible mind can respond by contributing to one’s enrichment of perspective and understanding of relationships with others, oneself and our environment. Letting go does not mean giving up, but rather, a creative softening of one’s way of being in the world, coupled with passionate commitment.

Deidre Ikin practices homoeopathic medicine and narrative therapy in the Blue Mountains, west of Sydney, NSW. She has over 20 years experience working with health, including remote areas of Australia and Mexico. She is interested in other cultures and their health practices, which have influenced her ways of working with groups and individuals.

Ph 02 4787 7080   Mob 0417 912 528

www.ecohealthoz.com.au