The Art of Letting Go — Practicing Ishvara Pranidhana in Daily Life

December asks us to soften our grip—on our schedules, our expectations, and even our sense of control. In yoga philosophy, this softening is known as Ishvara Pranidhana, the practice of surrendering to something greater than ourselves. Instead of forcing life to unfold a certain way, we learn to trust its natural rhythm.

This month at Bee Well Yoga, we explore how surrender can bring ease, clarity, and peace during the busiest time of year.

On-the-Mat Practices for Surrender

Child’s Pose (Balasana): A grounding shape that gently encourages humility and release.

Seated Forward Fold (Paschimottanasana): Lengthen the spine, bow forward, and breathe into resistance.

Supported Heart Opener: Use a bolster beneath the shoulder blades. Allow the chest to lift without effort.

1:2 Breathing: Inhale for 4, exhale for 8. This ratio shifts the body into deep rest.

Off-the-Mat Practices for Surrender

Let Go of One Obligation: Say no or release a task that is no longer aligned with your energy.

Practice Present-Moment Awareness: Choose one daily activity to perform slowly and intentionally.

Create a “Surrender Spot”: Place a small bowl or box somewhere in your home. Write down worries, drop them inside, and symbolically hand them over.

Our mantra for the week is…

I release what I cannot control. I trust the unfolding

Our journaling prompts are…

• Where am I holding on too tightly in my life right now?

• What would feel lighter if I allowed myself to release it?

• What does surrender mean to me in this season?

And our meditation is…a meditation to allowing the river of thoughts to flow

Sit comfortably. Imagine a gentle river flowing below you—steady, calm, and reliable. With every exhale, release something into the water: a worry, a tension, a fear. Watch it float away. With each inhale, receive the river’s support, knowing you are carried, held, and guided.

I release what I cannot control. I trust the unfolding