Back to School: Embarking on a Magical Adventure
As the winds of change sweep through our lives, we find ourselves at a crossroads of emotions. Sending our beloved young ones off to school, university, or into the boundless expanse of their own lives is a journey of mixed feelings, joy, excitement, trepidation, wonder, loss, and opportunity. There are probably many others, but these are what come to mind right now from remembering what I experienced years ago.
Now I have come to know to fear not, for the metaphysical realm is here to guide us through these transitions with grace, compassion, and a sprinkle of humor! Let’s embark on a voyage of ten metaphysical practices to embrace as you watch your kiddos spread their wings. If you can, start this a few weeks or months in advance. Otherwise it is never too late to start.
1 —
The Dance of Letting Go
Just as the universe expands, so must we. Picture yourself as a cosmic dance partner, letting go of their hand, knowing they have the rhythm of life within them. Allow the universal currents to guide their steps.
To begin, finding a tranquil and serene location where you can sit comfortably and relax is essential. Once you’re settled, gently close your eyes and take a few deep breaths, focusing on slow deep breaths in and then slowly breathing out. This will help you to center yourself.
While you continue your focused breathing, imagine your child/young adult standing before you, give them an encompassing embrace of protection, and then visualize yourself holding their hand. Allow yourself to feel the strong bond between you and your child, and slowly release your grip on their hand. As you do so, envision powerful universal currents guiding their every step, helping them navigate their life journey with strength, grace, and ease.
2 —
Crystalline Protection
Gift them a protective crystal to carry on their journey. Whether it’s rose quartz for love or amethyst for clarity, these precious gems can serve as gentle companions along their path.
Choose a protective crystal that resonates with your child’s energy (e.g., rose quartz, amethyst).
Hold the crystal in your hands and infuse it with your intention to protect and guide them. (You can also incorporate this practice as part of suggestion #1.).
When you give the crystal, explain its significance to your child and how it can be a gentle companion. You may also want to provide a small note with the explanation for future reference.
Encourage them to carry the crystal with them as a reminder of your love and protection.
3 —
Quantum (add link to explanation) Connectivity
Remind them that distance is but an illusion in the quantum tapestry. Set a shared intention before they go, and feel the cosmic threads that bind your energies together, no matter the physical separation. (Remember that song from An American Mouse movie?)
It would be beneficial to have a chat with your child regarding the nature of quantum reality. This topic can open up various avenues for discussion and exploration, providing a unique opportunity for you and your child to learn and expand your knowledge about the subject and what it means to you.
Discuss how some feel that distance is an illusion and that energy connects us on a cosmic level.
Set a shared intention for your connection and bond, regardless of physical distance. (Again, remember that movie?)
Encourage them to close their eyes and visualize the threads of energy that connect you both. Remind them that your love and support are always with them, a force that will transcend space and time.
Starlight Journaling
4 —
Starlight Journaling
Essential oils, veiled in the essence of nature’s wisdom, may provide relief from heat-related discomfort. Through their inherent prakriti or elemental composition, they carry cooling attributes, which can pacify excess Pitta dosha, responsible for heat-related imbalances.
When these aromatic essences are applied or inhaled, they interact with the senses, the mind, and the physical body. Their subtle energies permeate the channels, promoting a sense of harmony and balance and disentangling the knots of excessive heat.
Try the application of Peppermint or Eucalyptus to pulse points; one may feel a cooling sensation. Breathing in their refreshing aromas may provide an instant release of tension. These natural elixirs connect us to the very soul of plants, and their wisdom imparts a sense of harmony within. (Reference: Sadashiva Tirtha, “The Ayurveda Encyclopedia: Natural Secrets to Healing, Prevention & Longevity.”)
Also, with their distinct therapeutic properties, essential oils can have a powerful impact on the body’s subtle energy centers or chakras, unblocking stagnant energies and fostering a holistic sense of cooling and well-being.
5 —
Cosmic Laughter Yoga
Laughter is the elixir of the soul! Share a laugh yoga session before parting ways. Scientifically proven, laughter reduces stress and releases those blissful endorphins. Hilarity, activate!
Plan a special laughter yoga session with your child before they leave.
Find a comfortable and open space where you can both laugh freely.
Start by taking deep breaths (recall the breathing practice from #1)and then allow laughter to arise naturally.
Laugh together, sharing joyful moments, and releasing any tension.
Discuss how laughter reduces stress and releases endorphins, fostering a positive mindset. (Don’t knock it until you try it!)
6 —
Elemental Blessings
Bring in the elements of Earth, Air, Fire, and Water to infuse them with strength, clarity, passion, and adaptability. Invite them to visualize a cocoon (protective shield) of these elements, embracing them in every endeavor.
If you haven’t done so before, chat casually about the significance of the four elements: Earth, Air, Fire, and Water. You could make it another reflective session or a card that they can pull out of their bag and review to have them. “Imagine the Earth making you stable and strong, the Air clearing your thoughts, the Fire igniting your creativity and energy, and the Water helping you adapt to change and being flexible. Visualize these elements surrounding you like a cocoon, providing strength and guidance.
7 —
Astral Traveler’s Art
Create a symbolic drawing representing their journey. Every time they view it, they’re reminded of what they need or are focusing on to improve. It can be a drawing they made for themselves, a page from a mindfulness coloring book, whatever means something to them.
Work on it together or separately, Set an intention for the picture to symbolize your cosmic connection and support. when finished, frame it and put it in a place of significance.
Gift the amulet to your child, explaining its significance and the energy it holds.
Encourage them to view the art piece whenever they need a reminder of your bond.
The flow of the wind is mirrored in the flow of loose, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen against the skin. Embracing these airy materials, we move in harmony with the elements.
8 —
Mindful Stardust Walking
Scientifically backed, this practice reduces anxiety and increases present-moment awareness.
Go for a walk with your child in a natural setting. As you walk, guide them to focus on each step and take time to connect with the Earth.
Encourage them to take off their shoes and talk about how it feels on their feet.
Discuss the benefits of mindful walking, such as how it can make them feel calmer and how it can help creativity.
9 —
Gravitational Gratitude
Encourage them to cultivate gratitude, not just for their wins, but for how they got a certain result itself. Gratitude prepares the brain for positivity and resilience, helping them get through some of life’s changes and challenges.
The transition from day to night becomes a cosmic dance. Be a witness to its beauty.
10 —
Quantum Hug Healing
Even when they’re afar, hug them with intention. Research shows that intention can affect the energy of water; imagine what it can do when infused with the warmth of your love.
Remember, dear cosmic travelers, as they embark on this voyage, you are not losing them but rather witnessing their expansion into the grand tapestry of existence. Your love, wisdom, and cosmic guidance will always ripple through their lives, guiding them even when they cannot see.
Before parting ways, give them a heartfelt hug, infusing it with your love and intention.
Encourage them to feel the warmth and energy of your hug, even when you’re apart.
Remind them that your love and intention continue to surround them like a cosmic embrace.
As you embark on this metaphysical journey, remember that your cosmic wisdom and love are powerful tools guiding your child’s path. While physical distance may separate you, the universe’s interconnectedness ensures that your bond remains unbreakable. Embrace this new phase with open arms, cosmic traveler, for your child’s journey is a reflection of the cosmic dance of life itself.
In the grand symphony of life, you are the orchestra, and they are the beautiful notes. So, take a bow, for you’ve nurtured souls ready to harmonize with the universe. May your journey together be infused with grace and cosmic laughter!
Sharing love and light one moment at a time,
Rev. Lisa C. Coleman
August 2023