Taking a Break: Self-Care while grieving

Self-Care during the grieving
process:
Taking a Break
Grieving is a complex and deeply personal
journey that can be overwhelming and all-consuming.
In the midst of this emotional turmoil, we often feel pressure to keep pushing forward, to stay strong, and to keep going.
Society often promotes the idea that strength lies in being able to handle anything that comes our way without showing weakness. This culture of "pushing through" can be harmful, especially when it comes to grieving.
We are expected to bounce back quickly,
return to our normal routines, and act as if nothing has changed. Taking a
break, whether it's a day off from work, a retreat to a quiet place, or simply
allowing ourselves to rest, is often seen as a sign of weakness or inability to
cope. But nothing could be further from the truth.
The Importance of Rest and Reflection
Taking a break during the grieving process is not at all a sign of weakness; it is an act of self-care and self-preservation.
Grief takes an enormous toll on our emotional and physical well-being. It exhausts us mentally, physically, and spiritually.
By allowing ourselves the time and space to rest, we give ourselves the opportunity to recharge and replenish our energy. This period of rest is not a retreat from the pain; rather, it is a necessary step in our healing journey.
During our break, we can engage in reflection and introspection. We can take the time to process our emotions, thoughts, and memories.
This introspection helps us gain clarity
and perspective on our grief, enabling us to better understand ourselves and
our needs. It allows us to integrate our loss into our lives and find meaning
in the midst of our pain.
Embracing Compassion and Self-Care
Taking a break during the grieving process is an act of self-compassion.
Just as we would offer support and understanding to a friend going through a difficult time, we must extend the same kindness to ourselves.
Taking breaks allows us to prioritize our mental and emotional well-being, giving us the strength to navigate the challenging path of grief.
It is not only okay but necessary to pause and rest during the grieving process. It is a transformative time that requires compassion, self-care, and space for healing.
By taking a healthy break, we empower ourselves to honor our grief, process our emotions, and ultimately emerge stronger and more resilient. In the middle of the disruption that grieving might entail, we give ourselves the care and time we need to heal.
Questions
-
How do you feel about taking a break during grieving?
A pause from your usual obligations, commitments, or routines.
- How do you feel about taking a break from the grieving process itself?
A pause from your intense emotions, through distractions like small talk with a friend, watching a comedy movie, or doing something engaging. -
What ways of taking breaks work best for you?
-
How are you feeling these days?
These questions are optional. You can add any comments you wish, as they come to your mind.
I look forward to your answers!
And I wish you all the best!
Marcelo.
Image: Vincent van Gogh "Agostina Segatori Sitting in the Café du Tambourin" (1887). Oil on canvas.
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This piece was first posted as the Grief and Loss Check-In of September 1st, 2023
@HealingTalk
Hi Healing! 😊❤️ Many thanks for this amazing forum post!
- How do you feel about taking a break during grieving?
I find it to be most healthy to take a break during grieving. Instead of running from the thoughts, feelings and emotions, I know if I don't give them their proper time and proper space they are just going to keep bubbling up. It seems to me, it will catch up to us eventually. If not properly processed and dealt with, the feelings and emotions could come out at the wrong time and potentially negatively effect other parts of our lives.
-
How do you feel about taking a break from the grieving process itself?
Healing, I find it quite brilliant that you mentioned this, my friend! Some may not even recognize this as an option. For me, I feel great about taking a break from the grieving process. I tell myself that I have had enough of this for the day, I'm not "going there", everything in moderation and that I have my limits. I'll tell myself that I'm tired of being sad, that I'm at the point of annoying myself, lol 😊. I give myself a break, give it a rest and know that If I need to revisit those feelings, just that bad, that I'm free to pick them back up tomorrow. The grieving process is so very emotionally exhausting.
-
What ways of taking breaks work best for you?
While I'm not good at meditation in the conventional way, one thing that I have found that works for me is going outside. I will just sit on my deck. I will be one with nature, watch the birds, squirrels, bunnies, watch the wind sway the trees. I let any negative feeling, thought or emotion come to me. I don't fight it. Eventually I will come to a place that is peaceful internally. No thoughts at all. Just enjoying nature and feeling the sun on my face. And I just sit there. I just "be". I just "am". And after finding my center, I might go take a hot bath, watch television, read or watch fun youtube videos. - How are you feeling these days? Pretty good! 😊
Thank you again for another amazing forum post! *high fives* 😊 and *hugs* ❤️
@SparkyGizmo
Hi, Sparky!
Thank you for coming here to this check-in to share your experiences and emotions.
I am very happy to know that you are feeling well these days.
And I am glad that you approve of the idea of taking breaks, proposed in this check-in.
I agree with you that giving yourself the time and space to process your thoughts and feelings is crucial. You're absolutely right that if you try to push them away, they'll just keep popping up when you least expect it. So, taking those breaks, and letting those emotions out, is all part of healing. You're doing the right thing by giving yourself the chance to properly process and deal with them.
I am also glad that you recognize the need to take breaks from the grieving process itself from time to time. Emotions can be incredibly draining, and it's important to recognize your limits. It's okay to say, "I've had enough for today." Giving yourself a break doesn't mean you're avoiding the process; it means you're taking care of yourself. Grief can be a marathon, not a sprint, so pacing yourself is essential. It's all about finding that balance between allowing yourself to feel and giving yourself the respite you need. You're doing great by acknowledging your feelings and taking care of yourself along the way.
And you've discovered a great way to find solace during your grieving process. Going outside, connecting with nature, and simply being in the moment can be incredibly therapeutic. Allowing yourself to feel whatever comes up without judgment is a beautiful practice. It's all about finding those moments of peace and centering yourself. Enjoying some self-care activities like a hot bath, watching TV, or reading is also essential. It's so good that you take these breaks to recharge and find your inner calm.
You're doing a wonderful job taking care of yourself.
Thank you again, Sparky, for coming here to share your wise thoughts and ways of doing things.
I look forward to meeting you again soon around Cups!
All the best!
Marcelo.
- I feel like it is beneficial especially when I have the low moments of crying all over again.
- I use spending time with my family or listening to music as a distraction.
- Taking breaks work for me by allowing myself to decompress from may have happened throughout the day. Allowing myself peace of mind and gaining clarity.
- im feel good currently
@PhoenixButterfly97
Hi, Butterfly!
I'm really glad to hear that you're feeling well right now, and it's wonderful that you've found some effective ways to cope with your grief. Grieving is a deeply personal and often challenging process, and it's entirely okay to take breaks from your usual commitments when you're going through it.
Crying a lot during low moments is a natural part of the grieving process, and it's important to allow yourself to express those emotions. It can be exhausting, both physically and emotionally, and that's why those breaks are so essential. Spending time with your family and listening to music are excellent choices. Being with loved ones can provide comfort, understanding, and a sense of connection that can be incredibly soothing. Music, on the other hand, has a unique ability to touch our souls and help us process our feelings.
Taking breaks from grieving itself is also a smart move. Grief can be all-consuming, and stepping away from it now and then can help you regain your composure and see things more clearly. It's like giving your heart and mind a chance to catch their breath. These moments of respite can allow you to reflect on what's happening in your life, the memories you're cherishing, and the emotions you're experiencing.
Thank you so much for coming here to share your experiences and emotions.
You are loved in this Community.
All the best!
Marcelo
@HealingTalk
-
How do you feel about taking a break during grieving?
I'm so much better at it than I used to be. I used to push through at all costs until I couldn't do that anymore. Now, I'm like, "Here it comes. Better sit down for a while by myself." I just turned off my phone. I need to be alone. The world will have to call someone else if they need something for a few days.
- How do you feel about taking a break from the grieving process itself?
I did this last night. I watched a drama I liked (with lots of funny moments) from the 90s for a bit then a couple episodes of "Will and Grace." It helps to laugh. - What ways of taking breaks work best for you?
Turning off tech, reading to escape for a bit and also find empathy in the pages.
- How are you feeling these days?
I was good for a long stretch until yesterday and today has not been fun. But I know it will pass so I'm just spending time with grief, keeping it company until it does.
@LavenderDaily
Hi, Lavender!
You clearly have made significant strides in how to handle your grief compared to the past. It's a testament to your resilience and self-awareness. Recognizing the need to take breaks and giving yourself permission to do so is a crucial part of getting better. It's a sign that you're actively nurturing your emotional well-being.
It's wonderful to hear that you've found solace in watching a drama you enjoy and the humor of "Will and Grace." Laughter can be a powerful healing tool, and it's heartwarming that you're finding moments of fun during this challenging time. Those moments of lightness and humor are like small beacons of hope in the midst of grief's darkness.
Your strategies for taking breaks are not only effective but also healthy. Disconnecting from electronic devices and immersing yourself in the world of a good book are excellent ways to find respite and escape from the overwhelming emotions that can come with grief.
Reading can offer comfort and a sense of connection, especially when you find characters who reflect your own feelings or experiences.
Regarding how you feel now, it's absolutely normal to have moments of sadness, even when you've been feeling better for a while. Grief often comes in waves, and it's not a linear process. Some days will be tougher than others, and that's okay. What's important is your willingness to sit with your grief, acknowledge it, and let it run its course. Grief is not something you "get over" but something you learn to carry with you as a part of your life's journey.
It seems to me that you're doing remarkably well in navigating this challenging time. Be gentle with yourself, continue to take those breaks when needed, and lean on the strategies that work best for you. Your resilience and self-care are inspiring, and this Community is here to support you through this journey whenever you need it. You're not alone, and your feelings are valid. Take all the time you need, and know that brighter days will come.
Thank you very much, Lavender, for coming here to share your experiences and feelings!
I hope that sharing helped you to make the burden a bit lighter.
I look forward to seeing you again around here soon.
All the best!
Marcelo.