Letting Go & Embracing Change

Jill Amison • September 25, 2023

It's easier than you think!

So this week we cross the threshold of Autumn Equinox and move into the dark cycle of the year here in the northern hemisphere.
For me this change is always welcome. I adore the Autumn season....dark nights, candles lit, cozy clothes, slow cooker casseroles, gathering in the last of the autumn harvest from the garden and Strictly on the TV (!!!) etc. At this time of year, after the expansiveness and fullness of summer, I am always ready to slow down a little and move inwards. It feels instinctive for me.
For others I know there is huge resistance and this shift into the dark cycle can be so difficult.
Where are you with this change of pace?

Of course, we can't prevent this seasonal shift, so to make smooth transition if we can learn to align more fully with nature there is a natural 'letting go' that prepares us for this dark cycle of the year.
Just as the tree's are drawing their sap down to the roots and releasing their leaves to the earth for compost over winter, we too can use this time to take stock and prepare ourselves.
It becomes an opportunity to have a 'clear out'. This might be physically in our homes to clear the clutter! It might mean reviewing habits and behaviours in our lifestyle and wellbeing. It might be a review of how and where we use our energy. Perhaps some relationships are no longer nourishing us?
There is a myriad of ways we can do this, so that as we move forwards, we are giving ourself time and space to regenerate and renew, just as is happening in the natural world around us.

What are you harvesting? What have you accomplished, achieved or learnt from Spring Equinox until now?
How might you continue to grow these projects?
If things didn't work out how you'd hoped, what might you do differently next time?
What habits are nourishing for you and how can they continue to support you over the winter months?
What things/situations/people/habits do you need to let go of?
How can you connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the season and the 'letting go'

Personally I have already started this letting go:

I switched around my wardrobe this past weekend, packing away the summer clothes and unpacking all my warm winter clothes. In this process I always review each item and if I've not worn it, I no longer like it or it doesn't flatter and fit I pop it in the charity bag.
I also let go of half my hair this past weekend! I am blessed with very thick hair and have had it long for quite some time. I fancied a change....to shift things up a little and get a little more trendy! It's so surprising how much a good hair cut can change not only your appearance but your outlook shifts too.
It's coming up to October so I am also committing to Sober October!...There will be more about this in next weeks blog.

However you're transitioning I hope you can take some time in sacred space to review where you're at, let go of what no longer serves you and transition into Autumn peacefully.
xxx

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Navigating Conflict & Creating Healthy Boundaries on the Spiritual Path

By Jill Amison • January 13, 2025

Navigating Conflict and Creating Boundaries on the Spiritual Path Conflict is an uncomfortable yet inevitable part of life. As someone deeply immersed in the practice of yoga and spiritual growth, I’ve often found myself wrestling with how to navigate disagreements, especially of late, while staying true to my values. Yoga teaches us to ride the highs and lows of life with grace, but that doesn’t mean we always get it right. For me, conflict has been a difficult terrain to navigate, but over the years, I’ve learned to stand up for myself with right action—an approach deeply rooted in both Buddhist philosophy and the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. Sitting with the Feeling Before Reacting One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of sitting with my emotions before reacting. The Buddhist principle of mindfulness encourages us to observe our thoughts and feelings without immediately acting on them. In the Bhagavad Gita, Arjuna is faced with an internal struggle about going into battle. Krishna advises him not to avoid the conflict but to engage in it with wisdom and righteousness. Similarly, I’ve realised that avoidance doesn’t resolve conflict; rather, thoughtful engagement does. There have been times when I’ve failed at this—when I’ve reacted instead of responding with intention. But with practice, I’ve learned to pause, breathe, and compose my words with clarity and without hostility. This is not always easy, especially when emotions run high, but it is essential for maintaining inner peace while asserting healthy boundaries. Boundaries: The Bridge Between Compassion and Self-Respect Brené Brown, in Atlas of the Heart, speaks about boundaries as an essential component of healthy relationships. She reminds us that we can agree to disagree, but boundaries help define what is and isn’t acceptable in our interactions. For instance: It’s okay that we have different beliefs, but it’s not okay to belittle mine. It’s okay that we are upset, but it’s not okay to yell or swear at each other. It’s okay to set limits, but it’s not okay to disregard or disrespect them. Boundaries are not about controlling others; they are about protecting our own well-being while still allowing space for connection. They help us navigate relationships with integrity, ensuring that we can hold space for differing perspectives without compromising our values. Healthy Ways to Navigate Conflict on the Spiritual Path So how do we engage in conflict in a way that aligns with our spiritual practice? Here are a few approaches I’ve found helpful: Pause Before Responding – Take a breath, feel the emotions, and respond with intention rather than impulse. Practice Non-Violent Communication – Express needs and concerns without blame or aggression. Hold Compassion for Yourself and Others – Recognize that everyone is navigating their own struggles, and approach conflict with an open heart. Stand Firm in Your Truth – Speak your truth with clarity and confidence, knowing that setting boundaries is an act of self-respect. Accept Disagreements Without Forcing Resolution – Some conflicts may not have a perfect resolution, and that’s okay. Agreeing to disagree while maintaining respect is sometimes the best outcome. Know When to Walk Away – If the other person is unable or unwilling to communicate without crossing your boundaries, it may be necessary to disengage. Protecting your peace is just as important as standing your ground. This could mean ending the conversation, limiting contact, or, in extreme cases, removing yourself from the relationship altogether. Choosing to walk away is not a sign of weakness; it is a testament to your self-respect and emotional well-being. Navigating conflict is not about winning or proving a point; it’s about showing up authentically while maintaining inner peace. It’s about finding the balance between openness and self-protection. It’s a practice—one that, like yoga, requires patience, awareness, and a willingness to grow. As I continue on this journey, I remind myself that I won’t always get it right. But I can keep practicing, keep learning, and keep striving to meet conflict with wisdom and compassion. After all, the goal is not perfection but presence.