5 self-care practices to help you move through loss
Over the course of our lives, experiencing a loss becomes inevitable. We will all go through the pain of losing someone or something we love and cherish. While the pain of some losses are easier to process, others can feel overwhelming. Either way, self-care practices offer a safe environment where the loss can be explored on an emotional and spiritual level.
Experiencing a loss is heart-breaking and the grief which comes with it is often heavy. It may be difficult to process the various emotions you are feeling and the uphill road towards healing may seem hard. However, with the right tools finding healing, inner peace and having the strength to move forward after a loss is possible.
A self-care practice is the perfect tool when it comes to healing from deep sorrow. Such practice when performed with no judgement and self-compassion creates a cocoon around you where you can explore the loss without reliving the actual loss. This is because a self-care practice has a clear beginning and a clear ending making exploring emotions, feelings and needs within this setting safe. When you engage in a self-care practice you are saying a big yes to taking care of yourself and your needs. It creates space for you to gain the clarity you are seeking and the inner peace your heart is longing for. Let’s take a look at 5 self-care practices to help you move through the healing process:
1. Take a walk in nature
It is a well-known fact that spending time in nature reduces stress, anxiety and uplifts emotional well-being. When you feel overwhelmed, take a break and seek a peaceful moment in nature. Take a companion with you if you feel more comfortable having someone with you. Before you start, set your intention. As you walk, allow yourself to connect with the tranquillity and the beauty which surrounds you. Dedicate this time to your healing.
2. Keep a loss journal
Keeping a loss journal provides a space for reflection and soul-searching without judgement. Choose a notebook and pens you want to use for your journal. It is helpful to set a specific day and time in the week or month for journaling. Choose a space where you feel comfortable and can spend some time writing without any distractions. If writing seems daunting, try doodling, using collage, stickers and photos to capture your thoughts and feelings.
3. Relaxation
Plan time for relaxation during your day. Create a cosy space at home where you can fully relax. Try this simple 5-minute relaxation: While seated comfortably, gently close your eyes and take a few breaths. When you are ready, place both hands on your heart space and continue to breathe gently. Connect with your breath, the here and now and allow your body to soften with each breath. As your body relaxes, so does your mind. After 5 minutes, you should feel energized as well as calm.
4. Dance
When the sorrow you feel is too heavy and you feel stuck, dance. Dancing is an effective way to allow the grief to move through your body. Put your favourite music on and follow the beat. Dance until you feel your mood has lifted and you feel more relaxed.
5. End the day with a grateful heart
Days often feel endless and are hard to get through following a loss. Before you go to sleep at night, find one thing you are grateful for. It can be the little things which often go unnoticed. By practising gratefulness you build resilience which in turn helps you move forward.
Self-care, an aspect which is often overlooked, is a key element during the grieving and healing process. As you become accustomed to self-care practices, you may be drawn to create your very own practices. The key is to listen to your intuition.
Corinne Laan is the author of The Art of Grieving: Gentle self-care practices to heal a broken heart (Rockpool Publishing, $29.95). Now available where all good books are sold and online at www.rockpoolpublishing.co
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