Years ago, I traveled quite a bit. In fact, I was what some would call.… An International Traveler. It is vital to know how to pack Light when you are traveling. But, that’s not what I’m writing about today. Today, I want to share with you how to Travel Light emotionally. Many of us carry too much baggage. Let me explain: It truly is an art-form learning how to travel light in this world. So many of us carry way too much emotional baggage, and it robs us of our joy. Learning to let go and trust is a big step in the process of traveling light.
Sometimes it can be confusing which mountains we are supposed to climb, and which mountains we accidentally attached to our backs...carrying burdens that were never meant to be ours. But there they are, attached to us like an emotional backpack, making our journey longer and more difficult. What would happen if we put these mountains down and released the burdens that were never meant for us to carry?
The freedom of putting things down, to release what was never ours in the first place, is one of the best feelings in the world. Wouldn’t it be nice to release things like fear, stress, anxiety, and anger?
Here are four vital practices that will help to lighten the load, teaching us to carry only what is necessary. When we practice these virtues consistently, life becomes easier and more joyful. Remember: Practice is Key.
1. Discernment.
2. Prayer.
3. Meditation.
4. Forgiveness.
A good way to begin is to take inventory and see what should be released and what mountain or hill needs to be climbed. When taking inventory, it is a good idea to have a trusted friend, a family member, or a spiritual advisor assist you. They can help you discover a blind spot that you never knew existed.
We do not need to be alone when releasing things that no longer serve us, nor do we need to be alone when we are climbing. I strongly encourage you to have a trusted companion along for the journey.
And be sure to bring lots of snacks!
May your journey be light.
