Move On

Knowing when it’s time to let go of a personal ritual can be a complicated process. The release of anything familiar is difficult, especially if it’s a regular activity that has provided a comforting rhythm during uncertain times. But becoming self-aware (and self-inquisitive) about personal rituals can lead to fresh realizations.

“When we perform any kind of personal ritual, what we’re doing is looking for something—maybe it’s energy, or the feeling of being grounded and centered, ” says Natalia Rosenbaum, a holistic psychotherapist based in the Boston area. “So the first thing to ask yourself would be, Am I still getting anything out of this ritual? If you’re not gaining what you need from it, then it’s probably time to move on.”