What Does It Mean to Surrender? A Hypnotherapist’s Perspective
As a hypnotherapist, I often talk about the concept of surrender with my clients. Often, they are confused about what it means.
No, I’m not suggesting that they give up on life and lay down their swords.
Instead, I’m talking about a different kind of surrender – one that can actually help them overcome anxiety, stress, and uncomfortable thoughts and feelings.
But what does it really mean to surrender? And how can it help us in our mental health journey? In this blog, we’re going to explore the meaning of surrender from a mental health perspective, with the help of Eckhart Tolle’s teachings.
What is Surrender?
In simple terms, surrender means letting go of resistance. It means accepting what is, rather than trying to fight against it. It’s about being present in the moment, without judgment or attachment to outcomes.
But why is surrender important for mental health? Well, when we resist our thoughts and emotions, we create tension and stress within ourselves. We’re essentially fighting against our own minds, which only leads to more discomfort and distress. Surrendering, on the other hand, allows us to release that tension and find inner peace.
Eckhart Tolle’s Perspective on Surrender
Eckhart Tolle, author of “The Power of Now” and “A New Earth,” is one of the most well-known teachers of surrender. He believes that surrender is the key to inner peace and spiritual awakening. According to Tolle, “Surrender is the simple but profound wisdom of yielding to rather than opposing the flow of life.”
In other words, when we surrender, we’re not giving up – we’re simply choosing to go with the flow of life. We’re allowing things to unfold naturally, without trying to control or manipulate them. This doesn’t mean that we become passive or complacent. Instead, we’re actively engaging with life, but from a place of acceptance and openness.
The Benefits of Surrender
So, why should we bother surrendering? What are the benefits of letting go of resistance? Here are just a few:
Reduced Anxiety and Stress
When we stop fighting against our thoughts and emotions, we naturally experience less tension and stress. We’re no longer battling with ourselves, which means we can focus on the present moment and find a sense of calm.
Increased Self-Awareness
Surrendering allows us to become more self-aware. When we’re no longer caught up in our thoughts and emotions, we can observe them from a distance and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves.
Improved Relationships
When we’re able to surrender, we’re better equipped to handle conflict and challenges in our relationships. We’re less likely to react defensively or lash out in anger. Instead, we can approach situations with compassion and understanding.
Greater Spiritual Connection
For those who are interested in spirituality, surrender can be a powerful tool for connecting with a higher power. By letting go of resistance, we open ourselves up to the mysteries and wonders of the universe.
How to Surrender
So, how do we actually go about surrendering? Here are a few tips:
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment and observing our thoughts and emotions without judgment. By practicing mindfulness, we can learn to let go of resistance and surrender to the flow of life.
Cultivate Acceptance
Acceptance is a key component of surrender. When we accept what is, we’re no longer fighting against reality. We’re simply acknowledging and embracing it.
Let Go of Control
Surrender requires us to let go of our need for control. We can’t control everything in life, and trying to do so only creates stress and tension. By letting go of control, we open ourselves up to new possibilities and experiences.
Practice Self-Compassion
It’s important to be kind and gentle with ourselves as we learn to surrender. It’s not always easy, and we may slip back into resistance from time to time. But by practicing self-compassion, we can be patient and understanding with ourselves as we continue on our journey.
What Does It Mean To Surrender In Mental Health?
Surrender is a powerful concept that can help us find inner peace and overcome anxiety and discomfort. By letting go of resistance and accepting what is, we can cultivate a deeper sense of self-awareness and connection to the present moment. Eckhart Tolle’s teachings on surrender offer valuable insights into this topic, and his books are a great resource for those who are interested in learning more.
Remember, surrendering doesn’t mean giving up or becoming passive. It’s about actively engaging with life from a place of acceptance and openness. So, the next time you find yourself caught up in resistance and tension, try practicing surrender. You may be surprised at the sense of peace and calm it brings.
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You may also like to read:
How To Stop The Negative Thoughts From Taking Control
The Mindfulness Toolkit
The Importance of Acceptance To Mental Health
Unlock The Power Of Your Mind With a Hypnosis Audio Recording