Planting Seeds | A Simple Ritual for Letting Go
Whether it’s the shift from one season to the next, the transition through the year from darkness to light, or the repeated cycle of birth, growth, death and rebirth present in nature in so many ways, the rhythms of the natural world are full of grace, ease and so much wisdom for us to glean. Whether we realize it or not, we are part of the same cosmic dance as everything around us. Nature is cyclical and the rhythms of our own life and energy are no different. As without, so it is within.
While we may not crawl into a den for months as bears do, human beings absolutely hibernate in the winter time, in their own way. The darker, cooler months of winter naturally invite us to spend more quiet time indoors and sleep longer, providing a necessary opportunity to slow down, draw inward, reflect and restore. You may have felt this in your own life and intuitively adjusted your routine.
Embracing this natural ebb in your energy cycle allows you to arrive in spring feeling refreshed and open to the flow of energy that this new season brings. And, who doesn’t love the transition to spring? The longer daylight hours, bees buzzing, gardens to be planted and flowers blooming – the vitality that surrounds us at this time of year is inspiring. The natural world re-awakens at this time, full of new life and promise. And we too re-awaken, re-invigorated, with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment.
The transition of the seasons is so symbolic of the necessary (and often deeply uncomfortable) letting go and surrender that must occur before new life (or ideas and opportunities) can blossom.
Deciduous forests demonstrate this for us year after year as they shed their leaves every fall. The important lesson to note is that there is no resistance in this process. These trees don’t put up a fight. They just trust the natural flow of the world and they let a part of themselves go. Effortlessly.
As it turns out, it’s because of this releasing of their leaves that they can conserve their energy and survive through the harshness of winter, arriving to thrive in the spring. Nature knows when to let go in order to create space for growth. As without, so it is within.
So, how can we honour this powerful time of transition and let go of what is no longer serving us to make space for new growth?
Try this simple ritual:
You will need: candles, flowers or anything from nature that speaks to you and the energy of spring, crystals, photos or any items that inspire you, paper and a pen, a small bowl, and seeds (any kind you like).
- Block off 20-60 minutes of time when you will not be interrupted.
- Choose a space that is clear of clutter and has a peaceful feel to it, whether it is a room or corner in your home or a favourite place of yours outside.
- Create an altar, arranging your candles, flowers/items from nature, and inspiring items in any way that appeals to you.
- Cleanse your space by lighting incense or sage.
- Ground yourself for 5-10 minutes by sitting quietly and focusing on your breath.
- Spend some time reflecting on what is no longer serving you in your life – on small pieces of paper write down what you are ready to let go of. Notice if resistance pops up and channel the grace and ease of nature.
- Very carefully, using a candle, set the pieces of paper alight and place them in the bowl, letting the fire burn them away, watching the smoke carry away that which you are releasing.
- Take three cleansing breaths, inhaling deeply through your nose and exhaling through an open mouth with a sigh.
- Now that you have created space, hold your seeds in your palms, close your eyes, breathe steadily and contemplate what you would like to see grow in your life over the next few months. Infuse the seeds with your intentions.
- Plant your seeds where they will be well nourished by sun and water and watch them grow. Let them serve as a reminder of your intentions, coming to life.
Guest Contributor, Georgia Cyr, Peace + Presence Mentor, is a PowHERhouse Women WE Celebrate.