Grief is often described as a wave. Coming and going. What’s usually left out of that metaphor is some of the other elements of a wave. Sometimes they barrel down, leaving your breathless; other times they simply make a splash. Sometimes they’re predictable and expected, other times they completely catch us off guard. And as anyone who has experienced grief will tell you, it’s much the same.
When grieving the loss of anything, from a loved one to daily routine to an opportunity, the only thing that’s predictable is how truly unpredictable it all really is. To help you cope with whatever your grieving, we’ve compiled some tips.
It’s okay to cry. But it’s also okay if you don’t.
When it comes to crying, it often feels like we can’t win. If we cry too much some of us may fear that others will think that we’re not processing our grief, or perhaps that we’re making them feel uncomfortable with our emotions. But on the other hand, if we don’t cry we think others may view us as not processing our grief or not caring about the loss. In moments like this, it’s important to remember that we all process grief in our own way and our own time. The key thing is to be open to your emotions and listen to yourself. Don’t bottle up whatever you’re feeling. That may just mean screaming into a pillow, and that’s okay! Or if you’re having a hard time sharing your emotions with others, try expressing yourself creatively through a written or drawn journal.
Seek comfort in your loved ones.
When experiencing loss, reach out to the people who are your support network. It doesn’t matter if it’s a phone/video call or in-person meeting, taking the time to talk with the people who you have deep relationships with is comforting in many different ways. Chances are they are familiar with the situation that you’re grieving and can talk with you about it to help you process it. They are also good to help you find joy and lightness in times when the world seems dark and heavy. This is the time to surround yourself with people who will be okay with the fact that you’re not okay and that you won’t have to explain yourself to.
Maintain your physical health.
When experiencing emotional turmoil, it can be easy to let other areas of our life go out of focus. As challenging as it can be to keep up making and eating healthy meals and engaging in physical activity, it has a powerful impact on our emotional health. Exercise releases the “feel-good” chemical endorphin in the brain. It’s recommended that you do at least 30 minutes of exercise to allow this reaction to take place. If running, swimming, or biking aren’t your preferred method of exercise, meditation can also have this beneficial effect. Try to practice your physical activity outside, as vitamin D helps boost melatonin and serotonin, chemicals that also improve mood and boost energy.
Incorporate Essential Oils.
When it comes to easing the stress and anxiety that accompanies loss, there are some tried and true essential oils. Lavender. Citrus oils like Bergamot, Grapefruit, Sweet Orange, and Tangerine. Rosemary. Woodsy oils like Cypress Blue and Sandalwood. Patchouli.
But there are also blends, like Grief that combine the soothing properties of Bergamot, Chamomile, Cypress and Marjoram. If you’re looking to support yourself or others through the grieving process, you may find the Grief Gift Basket helpful. It comes packed with comforting products like an Anxious Soy Candle, Lavender Herbal Soap, De-Stress Massage Spray, Sleepy Pillow Spray, and Grief Essential Oil (10mL) and Roll-On.
*For informational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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