For many of us most of our days are filled with specific routines that have become almost second nature, I hate to say that they’re insignificant but that’s what they can feel like sometimes. You’re probably so use to doing them that it requires very little energy or thought to accomplish them anymore. This could be anything from the drive to work, to the food you eat, how you get your kids ready, the tasks you perform throughout the day, daily interactions with other people or your significant other, and right on down to the way you end your day and prepare for bed.
To break up these routines every once in a while you may spend some time reminising with friends or even by yourself as a way to remind yourself that life is meaningful and worthwhile. Looking back on past experiences is something I’ve always done as a way to boost my morale, create bursts of excitement and passion, strengthen social relationships, and enhance my mood. Music in particular is one way that I have found can dramatically alter my mood in any given moment.
The word Nostalgia comes from the greek word nostos, which means homecoming or return to and algos, which refers to pain or ache. So essentially the word means ” a return to pain.” I found this to be extremely interesting as I feel most of us associate the word with “the good old days.” With that being said, certain memories, thoughts, songs, people, food, and experiences can force us into nostalgia that is more fitting with the traditional sense of the word.
You probably don’t have a tough time reminiscing about “the good ol’days,” but what about when those certain moments pop up that create angst, fear, uncertainty, self-doubt, or attachment? How can the art of learning to let go help not only with past memories and experiences but also help you to build a more confidant, strong, determined, and healthier version of yourself in the future – a person that spends more time living there authentic self?
