Taking Time for Yourself In Grief

If I don't do it, who will?

The holidays bring a lot of extra things to do, responsibilities to take on, and people to care for and about. Adding things like extra meals to make, presents to buy, decorations to put up, cleaning and hosting, the list of things seem to pile up on top of normal life activities. Throwing grief and recent loss into the mix is just another layer to build up to a hectic couple of weeks.

The idea of pausing and taking a break might sound daunting. Maybe you think, if you take a break, who will step in for you?

The good news is, your break can be small. Taking an hour for yourself will not make or break your holidays. The presents can wait, the decorations will still be there after your break. Taking time for yourself in grief can be a powerful tool for recentering, realigning your emotions, and moving towards healing.

Give yourself permission to step away.

Take a walk, grab a cup of coffee, visit with a friend, journal, or take a nap. Allow yourself the time to sit with your feelings and relax for a moment in the midst of the busiest, hectic season.