Set Yourself Free -Releasing “Shoulds” and Embracing Joy

June invites us into the fullness of the season more light, more color, more possibility. But with that brightness often comes a quiet pressure to be doing more, achieving more, or showing up in a certain way.

You may hear that inner voice whispering:
“I should be further along.”
“I should look better in summer clothes.”
“I should be more grateful, more productive, more fun…”

It’s easy to get caught in the web of “shoulds,” especially this time of year when the world seems to speed up. But what if we softened those expectations and invited in something sweeter, like joy?

The Energy Behind “Should”

“Should” is often rooted in comparison or conditioned beliefs. It carries an edge of pressure and not-enoughness, and when we absorb too many of them, we begin to disconnect from what actually feels good and aligned.

This month’s Facebook Live morning meditation is all about reconnecting with joy.  The quiet kind, the simple kind, the kind that comes from being exactly who you are, not who you think you should be. I guide you through a gentle practice to release pressure and invite in lightness. Reiki energy flows throughout, helping you shift from striving to presence, from self-judgment to self-kindness.

Try This: A Joyful Shift Practice

1. Notice the “should”:
Catch yourself in a thought like, “I should be more motivated today.”

2. Pause and ask:
“Is this actually what I want or need right now?”
“Where is this coming from… my truth, or someone else’s story?”

3. Reframe with joy:
Instead of, “I should work out today,” try:
“I would love to move my body in a way that feels nourishing.”

This gentle shift honors your needs while creating space for authentic joy.

Reiki and Joy: A Loving Connection

Reiki reminds us that joy isn’t something we learn, it’s part of who we are. When we slow down and allow energy to flow freely, we often rediscover the small joys that were there all along: sunlight on your skin, a belly laugh, a quiet moment of breath.

You don’t have to be perfect, productive, or polished to feel joy. You just have to be willing to listen inward—and let it bubble up from the inside out.

Let This Be Your June Intention:

“I release the weight of ‘should’ and make room for joy.”

If you’d like to begin your morning with more clarity, softness, and light, join me for this month’s free Facebook Live Reiki-infused morning meditation. It’s a beautiful way to set the tone for your day and your month.

Click here to join the meditation on Facebook Live

2nd Thursday of the month at 6:30 a.m. PST

Let June be your invitation to slow down, breathe, and feel good, simply because you can.

With love and light,
Renee