We all grieve many times in our life. Grief is not just about death of a human, it can be about the death of a relationship, the death of a hope or dream, the death of a job, or anything that has ended that you didn't want to end. It can also be about knowing that there will be an end in the future, of something or someone you care about.
The most important thing about grieving is that we have to do it. Otherwise it will come back and kick you in the butt, if you don't allow it to happen. Letting it happen, can be very difficult for many, you know, the stiff upper lip thing. But, when we feel it coming, we have to acknowledge it and be present with it. Sometimes, that is not easy, like when we are at work. But, we have to do it. At work, go to the bathroom, or talk with an empathetic co-worker (everyone has gone through something they had to grieve about). Accept it and be present and let it flow.
Self care is important in times of grief. When you are crying a lot, make sure you drink some water, because you lose a lot (that may seem so simple, but it is very important!). Take a walk in nature, send someone a loving text, or email, be of service to others in whatever way you can. But, take good care of yourself in your time of grieving.
We all grieve in different ways. And all ways are OK, unless you stuff it! Sometimes we need help in figuring out the best way for us to grieve. It might take getting help from a friend, or loved one. It might take some trial and error on your part. Maybe seeing a counselor to get help in processing it, would help. It might take reading about it.
Tear Soup: A recipe for Healing After Loss , by Pat Schwiebert is a wonderful book about finding your own recipe for your own grieving process. It is a children's book, but is used in adult grief groups, and the illustrations are amazing! I recommend that to clients who are grieving, even when they don't realize that is what they are doing.
Please add your own suggestions for reading or figuring out your recipe for grieving.
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