Letting Go of Resistance

Finding Flow When Life Pushes Back

I had the good fortune of growing up surrounded by lakes and rivers. Boating was, and still is, a favorite pastime for many in that region—and my family was no different. I have fond memories of canoeing, sailing, and paddle boating.

Even now, I enjoy kayaking and paddle boarding in the local reservoirs. There’s something deeply calming about the rhythm of paddling—the sound of the water lapping against the boat. However, the wind can quickly turn a peaceful day on the water into quite a workout.

Have you ever paddled upstream or against the wind?

The last time I went paddle boarding, the wind was so strong that, even though I was paddling as hard as I could, I was still being blown backward. When this happens, there are only a few choices to make: keep paddling in futility, stop and wait for the wind to die down, or let go and allow the wind to take you where it wants to go.

I chose to pull over to the shore and wait. But I could have also allowed the wind to blow me back to where I started. Sometimes resistance is futile—giving in and going with the flow really is the best option.

When Resistance Helps—and When It Hurts

Resistance can build strength and tenacity. There are times when it’s necessary and even noble—like resisting injustice or standing up for what’s right.

But emotional resistance is another matter. Unlike social or political resistance, which can inspire change, emotional resistance only deepens our suffering. It takes us out of the flow—like paddling upstream against a raging current.

When we don’t like what’s happening in our lives, wish things were different, or feel that our desires are being ignored, we can become frustrated, resentful, angry, or despondent. Once those emotions take hold, our minds pile on with thoughts that reinforce them. Before long, we find ourselves swirling in the current of negativity.

When we finally hit bottom, we may wonder, How did I get here?

Resistance Is a Form of Fear

I often think of Yoda’s words:

“Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering.”

If I could add one more link in that chain, it would be resistance.
Fear leads to resistance, and resistance leads to anger.

Emotional resistance is the psychological barrier we build to avoid uncomfortable or threatening emotions, situations, or thoughts. It often shows up as avoidance, denial, or distraction and may stem from fear of loss, failure, or change.

While resistance can offer temporary relief, it usually increases our suffering over time—because we can’t selectively numb emotions. When we resist sadness or fear, we also block joy, peace, and love.

Flowing Downstream

Letting go of resistance can create a profound shift in perspective. If you ever feel stuck, try softening your stance. Let go, and allow your thoughts and emotions to drift downstream with the current.

Instead of feeling frustrated that your kids leave a trail of messes behind them, remember—they’re still learning how to be in the world. They haven’t yet had the experience of cleaning up big messes or discovering that it’s easier to clean as you go.

Begin to soften your thoughts toward whatever you’re resisting. Turn those thoughts into what Abraham Hicks calls “downstream thoughts”—thoughts that feel just a little bit better. As your thoughts shift, your emotions begin to follow.

Before long, you’ll find yourself dropping the oars of resistance and flowing naturally toward peace and happiness.

Let Go, Drop the Oars, and Return to Peace

Interested in changing your state?
Hypnotherapy and Yoga Nidra are both powerful practices that literally alter your brainwave state. We truly have the ability to change how we think and feel—it takes effort, but not nearly as much as you might imagine.

These practices work with the unconscious parts of the mind that keep us stuck in old patterns and emotional loops. With awareness, softness, and a willingness to let go, we can return to our natural state of balance and joy.

Drop the oars. Release the resistance.
Flow gently back to your true self.

In peace & light,
Kirsten