More Self-Care Tools

There is no denying that Grief can be arduous.

The word "grief' originates from the Latin word "gravis" which means heavy.

Heaviness and upheaval may surface on our journeys. Quite frankly, some days can be excruciatingly painful and dark. For some grieving Moms, there are days when it is hard to breathe, get out of bed, hard to eat and very difficult to leave one's home.  Everyone is Different.  Grieving Moms deserve Compassion, Kindness and Respect. Glimmers of Hope / Glimmers of Happiness

It should be noted that there are also beautiful days on the Journey. 

Days when we notice and truly appreciate what some refer to as the simple pleasures. 

We may find ourselves to suddenly be feeling a little lighter. Perhaps marvelling at the beauty of a spectacular sunrise. Feeling the breeze. Times when an unexpected smile from a passing stranger fills our heart with happiness.  Enjoying the sound of rain on your roof. Feeling hopeful and connected. When another grieving Mother who has been on the journey longer, compassionately walks beside us. (Grief can be lonely.)

Days when you realize you are smiling more, laughing more and feeling less trepidation. 

It bears repeating that grief has its own agenda. 

Even as you may notice that your grief is slowly softening and you are having more and more calm days, it is imperative to remember about your self-care tools.

Grief laden moments can sneak up on us. 

Please always give yourself grace. Grieving is tough. The following are self-care suggestions. Take what resonates with you!

• Consider journaling. There are some fantastic journals with prompts for grievers. You can also find journals which incorporate gratitude and daily affirmations. 
  

• Some grievers journal on random scraps of paper and then shred what they have written. It can be empowering to look back at older journals and see how your grief has evolved. Find what best suits your needs!
  

• Perhaps try writing some poetry, painting, colouring, crafting, etc. (You do not have to share your artwork or poetry with anyone.) It is not about perfection… It is about dedicated time for yourself! We deserve distraction from our heartache.
  

• For some, grief can really manifest in our bodies. Our necks and backs may carry a lot of tension. (Massage is another self care tool that I personally have benefitted from.) I know several grievers who swear by yoga to abate the tension in their bodies. You do not have to be an elite athlete to do yoga. There are many different types of yoga. Please remember to drink lots of water after your massage and or yoga.

For more of my thoughts regarding the importance of Self-Care, the link below will take you to a previous blog I wrote called My Self-Care Toolbox

Grieving Moms if leaving your home is difficult there are very kind and knowledgeable therapists who can offer support and encouragement on your journey. 

They can teach you techniques to help you feel safe and be able to leave your home. Please be gentle with yourself and never forget that baby steps count. You Matter.

Recently a griever apprised me that attending a weekly prayer group is a part of her self-care.

Grieving Moms, feel free to email me about your self-care faves! 

Please remember there are some dark days, but the sun does come out again.

Yours in hope, Denise