Day 39 of 100 Days of Hope
Letting Go: A Simple Practice to Feel Free Again
As a midlife mom, life can feel heavy sometimes. We carry so much — responsibilities, emotions, expectations — often without realizing how tightly we’re holding on. Between caring for others, managing our homes, and navigating change, it’s easy to forget what it feels like to breathe freely and just be.
But what if letting go could bring you peace?
I want to share a simple practice I learned from my life coach, one that has helped me release emotions that were weighing me down and keeping me stuck. It’s something you can do anywhere, anytime — and it takes less than a minute.
The Pencil Practice: “I Choose to Release”
Start by holding a pencil in your hand. Think about something that’s been troubling you — a worry, a memory, or even a lingering feeling of frustration or sadness.
Squeeze the pencil gently as you focus on that thought. Then, when you’re ready, open your hand and let it go.
As you do, say softly to yourself:
“I choose to release.”
Repeat this a few times. You might notice your breath deepen, your shoulders relax, or your mind quiet down. The shift can be subtle, but powerful.
What You Can Release
You can use this practice to let go of almost anything that no longer serves you:
Judgment
Frustration
The past
Comparing yourself to others
Impatience
Anger or pride
Fear
Pain or sorrow
When you release even one of these, something changes. The heaviness lifts. You begin to feel lighter, clearer, and more hopeful.
Why This Works
I first learned this method from my life coach, and later discovered it was also taught by Katie Hendricks. It’s a simple yet profound way to use your body as a guide to emotional release.
Physically letting go — even of something as small as a pencil — helps your mind and heart follow. You signal to your body that it’s safe to stop holding on. That you’re ready to breathe again.
Letting Go to Heal and Shine
Letting go doesn’t mean forgetting or pretending the pain never happened. It means freeing yourself from what’s been holding you back, so you can move forward with love and grace.
As midlife moms, we’re entering a new chapter — one where we get to rediscover ourselves. By releasing old patterns, emotions, and expectations, we make space for more joy, creativity, and connection.
When I practice letting go, my world feels brighter. The clouds don’t seem so dark. I feel hope returning — and my heart opens wider to love and be loved.
Your Invitation
Take a deep breath.
Hold your pencil.
Say softly, “I choose to release.”
Then open your hand — and your heart — to the beauty waiting for you.
You deserve to feel light, peaceful, and free.
Here is a short video on how this process works.
With love and light,
Julie Burningham
Certified Life Coach for Midlife Moms
Shine Bright Life Coaching