Let’s talk about some emotions today. As we travel forward with letting go, let’s look at the emotional barriers we have that might get in our way. Let’s look and find some ways that letting go can help with these uncomfortable feelings.

As nurses we sometimes work with challenging personalities. We have a profession that is stressed, strong-willed, superiorly intelligent and hard-working. Sometimes our egos and pride can get in our way. Or we have a shift with people we just don’t click with. Whatever it may be, no matter how much of a team player we are, we may come across a nurse that we just don’t work well with.

Relationships are very tough. Our emotions come into play. The other person’s do as well. Miscommunication, misinterpretation, busy schedules and information overload can all add to the stressors. No matter how peaceful we would like all of our interactions to go; they don’t go smoothly 100% of the time.

Instead of hanging onto these feelings- of anger, jealousy or sadness- we can uplift our well-being and aid in our own health… by letting go.

One way to let go of these emotional drains is through forgiveness. Forgiveness is a decision to let go of resentment and thoughts of revenge. The actual behavior that hurt or offended you may remain a part of your life, but forgiveness can help you let go of its grip on you and free you  up to focus on positive parts of your life. Forgiveness can even lead to understanding, empathy and compassion for the hurt towards you. Because you are letting go, forgiveness brings a peace that helps you enjoy life with joy.

Jealousy is another emotion that gets in the way of living a full, peaceful and joyful life. When we are coveting what another person has or does we are not fully in alignment with our highest self. We have everything we need right now. Jealousy invites unnecessary worry and needless discomfort.

When we can turn the mirror around and look into our own eyes, at our own lives and contemplate on the beauty, abundance and joy that we have right in this moment- all of that envy washes away. We are enough. We have enough. We have plenty. We are wonderful, beautiful and meaningful in our own ways. Letting go helps us to forget about other people’s possessions and be grateful for our own.

A final emotion that creates pure disease within the body is anger. When we are upset, frustrated or tense- what happens? Our heart races. Our skin sweats. We breathe heavier. Blood rushes to our faces and our pressure rises- literally. These physical sensations of anger are not good for our health. We must learn to let go of irritations and embrace feelings of love all of the time.

There are many, many emotions that we can work through and enhance using this capacity of letting go. One we did not even touch on today is fear. Releasing and letting go of fear may be the most powerful way to de-stress our lives and embrace our total well-being. Let’s save that topic for another post and move on for today. Let’s let go…

What are your reactions to this article? How do you think letting go can help you move through uncomfortable emotions? When has letting go helped you in the past?