Soul, not Script...

Navigating recovery can be an emotional roller coaster. In shamanic tradition, there's a practice called the 'Giveaway' that encapsulates the power of gratitude and non-attachment. For me, this concept has been transformative.

At the start of my healing journey, I was advised to focus on service and gratitude. The idea was that giving to others could be a pathway to healing. But at the time, I was grappling with anxiety and depression, struggling to make it through the day. How could I give when I was barely holding on myself?

The suggestion to "be grateful" felt like it came from a script, not from someone who understood my struggles. I became more frustrated and confused. My teachers meant well, but their advice seemed disconnected from my personal experience.

Then I discovered the 'Giveaway.' This practice showed me the deeper meaning of giving—it’s not about sacrifice but about balance. To give from a place of authentic generosity, you first need to heal. It's a paradox: the act of giving can heal, but you must also be healed to give fully. 

Here’s what I learned about the 'Giveaway' and how it changed my approach to gratitude and giving:

Finding Balance in Giving

Ask yourself, "Am I giving from a place of pure generosity, or am I doing it with expectations?" It's crucial to maintain a balance between self-care and giving. Sometimes, we over-give, and that's a sign to take a step back and care for ourselves. 

Non-Attachment: The Key to Pure Giving

Practicing non-attachment helps keep giving pure. When you give without expecting anything in return, it's truly a gift. But if you give with strings attached, it leads to resentment and burnout. I learned this the hard way—over-giving can drain your energy and spirit. When that happens, it’s time to reset and focus on your own well-being.

Awareness and Reflection

The journey toward gratitude begins with awareness. Take a moment to check in with yourself. How are you feeling? Are you exhausted, anxious, or depressed? Acknowledge those emotions without judgment. Then, find a way to reflect on what you need. This could be through meditation, journaling, or simply taking a walk in nature.

Give Yourself Permission to Receive

Many people in recovery struggle with receiving. It can feel like you're being selfish or that you don't deserve kindness. But giving and receiving are interconnected. Allow yourself to receive with an open heart. Just as you give, let others give to you.

Embracing Gratitude in Recovery

As you continue on your journey, remember to appreciate the small things—the people who support you, the progress you've made, and the simple joys in life. Recovery is a process, and it requires patience and practice. 

So, let's embrace the 'Giveaway' and choose soul over script. Shift your perspective, embrace the paradox, and find your rhythm. May you find balance, peace, and gratitude as you continue your journey.