On the Edge: Meditation for Letting Go of Control

There is a part of you that needs to know what’s going to happen before you do anything. The part of you that wants to be safe and predictable. The truth is that being really open to yourself is not predictable. It is not safe. It is on the edge.

Control is Rooted in Fear

If you try to control the outcome of anything — people, places and things — you may get control of the form but you destroy the substance. You lose the joy of responding to the creative energy of your life.

All holding on, all forms of control originate in your body with your breath. When you are afraid, you protect, grab, or push away. You do the same thing with your breath. Watch yourself sometime. When this happens (and it will) tune in to the network of your tightness.

Practice the Art of Letting Go through Meditative Breathing

Watch your breathing. And notice how tense your body feels when you try to control. Note the disturbance inside and be with it. Move into it and allow it. It’s true you don’t know where anything will lead you.

Maybe you could fall off the cliff. Maybe you could fly. Let the discomfort build. Be real with what is there. Observe your inhale and exhale and be gentle as you guide your breath to deeper levels. The feelings may even escalate. Surround yourself with your awareness. Accept your turmoil, uncertainty, or fear. Get in there with it. But don’t lose track of your breath. Watch the parts of your body that feel irritated, frustrated, or hurt. Where are you most uncomfortable? Remain with your breath.

Letting Go of Control through Breathing can Free Your Emotions

You may feel like sighing or even sobbing. It’s just the pressure that wants to be released. Let yourself go. You are actually more secure when you let go.

Stay on the edge. That’s where your life is. That’s where your breath is.

---

Try this simple Breathing Awareness Practice

 

 

Buy the book, Emotional Yoga

Find over 60 healing practices for your body and mind.

Get Bija’s book Emotional Yoga: How the Body Can Heal the Mind (Simon & Schuster)