Spring often brings subtle emotional shifts. While it’s a time of fresh starts and new energy, it can also stir up feelings of restlessness or doubt.
This article offers three gentle “letting go” practices, from a spiritual perspective, to help you move forward with more clarity and kindness.
Honoring the Transition from Spring to Early Summer
As cherry blossoms fall and the breeze starts to carry hints of early summer, the seasons quietly begin to shift.
Spring is filled with the energy of new beginnings—many of us start new projects, set intentions, or dream bigger. But not everything always goes as planned.
If you’ve found yourself feeling stuck, or noticing a gap between your expectations and reality, that doesn’t mean you’ve failed. In fact, it may be a sign that you’re ready to move on to the next stage.
According to the old Japanese calendar, around April 20 marks the start of “Kokuu”—which translates to “grain rain,” a seasonal period that nourishes the earth and gently leads us into summer. This is a perfect moment to pause, reflect, and release.
1. Release Your Idealized Self
Did your spring goals go exactly as planned? Probably not—and that’s completely okay.
Ask yourself: “Were those goals really aligned with who I am right now?”
Sometimes, our ideals turn into pressure or self-criticism:
- “I should’ve posted more on social media.”
- “I didn’t keep up with my new hobby.”
- “Why can’t I keep my room tidy?”
Let go of the “shoulds” and recognize what no longer fits. Maybe your true path is softer, simpler, and more nurturing than the one you imagined.
Try this: Write down three things you’ve been criticizing yourself for. Tear up the paper and say out loud, “Okay, moving on.” You may be surprised how freeing that feels.
2. Let Go of Things Left Unused
Energy lingers in physical objects. Even unused items can carry the weight of old expectations or emotional clutter:
- A beauty gadget you meant to try
- A spring outfit you never wore
- A hobby tool you’ve misplaced or abandoned
Instead of clearing out everything, try this gentle approach:
Choose one shelf, drawer, or basket to empty. That simple act creates space—for both energy and new possibilities. It’s like telling the universe, “I’m ready for something new.”
3. Stop Holding Solo Reflection Sessions
Are you constantly reviewing what went wrong this spring?
Reflecting is healthy, but not when it becomes self-blame. Shift your focus to what did go well—even if it seems small:
- You went for three walks
- You rearranged your room just a little
- You took a refreshing nap
Celebrate those wins. Tell yourself, “You did great.” That kind of compassion fuels the next season of your journey.
Seasons Move Quietly—And So Can You
While the calendar says spring is ending, the gentle air and light still feel like early spring in many places.
That in-between moment—the shift—is a powerful time to tune inward.
Letting go doesn’t mean losing. It means returning to what truly feels like you.
As the rains fall more often in the coming weeks, I hope you can look up at the sky and breathe deeply, knowing you are exactly where you need to be.
