Self Care Is A Crucial Part Of The Healing Process

Self Care Sunday

Grief can be raw, painful and lonely. It is important during times of grief to take care of yourself. Self-care is a crucial part of the healing process and can help ease the suffering of the mind, body, and spirit. Every individual’s grief is unique and so is their path to healing.

* Be kind to yourself. Be gentle with you. Talk kindly to yourself with words of love and affirmation. Allow yourself to grieve in the time and ways that you need.

* Allow yourself to really feel. Feel what you need to feel. Lean into your feelings. There is no right or wrong feeling during grief. Whatever you are feeling is okay.

* Schedule something that brings you yoy, everyday. Whether it’s baking, music, art, praying, reading, walking in nature, etc. Find something that brings you joy and make it a priority every single day.

* Don’t set a timeline for yourself. Grief is not linear. There is no time frame for how long you should grieve. You have the right to take the time you need.

* Communicate what you do and do not need. It’s okay to want to be alone. It’s okay to not want visitors to linger. It’s okay to say no. It is also okay to ask for help.

* Laugh when you can. Laughter is the medicine for the body and soul. Don’t feel guilty for having times of joy and laughter. This does not mean you love or miss your loved one any less.

* Make time to grieve. Pushing your grief deep down won’t allow yourself to heal. Find a quiet place. Sit with your grief.

* Awaken your senses. Welcome yourself to a variety of sensory activities that bring you comfort. Taste or smell different foods, feel soft fabrics, smell flowers or evergreens, sit by the water, mountains, take nature hikes and watch the sunrises or sunsets.

* Nourish your body with healthy foods. Your mind is experiencing trauma. Replenish your body and mind with nutritious foods and water so you can heal well.

* Move your body. Exercise is calming for both your mind and body. Go for a walk, practice yoga, bike, hike, run and take deep breathes. Whatever movement you do, enjoy.