One technique we offer clients when parting with items is to have a ceremony or moment of silence in honor of the item.  This allows the person to acknowledge the item, then let it go.  I have seen this technique sucessfully implemented for clients but had never found a need to do it myself, until recently.

I purchased a pair of Dansko shoes nearly four years ago.  They have served me well and been on many adventures with me.  Just recently, the shoes began falling apart to the point where it became clear they needed to be replaced.  My first reaction was, “Yes!  An excuse to buy new shoes!”  I went to the shoe store and purchased the exact same style of shoes as they had worked so well for me.

When I arrived home and was unpacking the shopping bag it became clear that it was time to let go of the old shoes. This moment became much more emotional for me than I expected.  Those shoes had gone through a lot with me and been in some crazy spaces!  In a way it felt like letting a part of myself go.  I shared my challenges with my husband who responded, “Why don’t you keep the old pair as junk shoes?”  To which I responded, “No!”  There was no need to keep a pair of shoes that was literally falling apart!

I took a minute before putting the shoes in the trash to thank them for all they had done for me.  I contemplated giving them a kiss but thought better of it!  Taking that moment allowed me to acknowlege the shoes and how valued they were to me.

I encourage you to take a minute to have a ceremony or take a moment to thank an item before disposing of it if you are having trouble letting go.  

Photo: http://www.dansko.com