It’s commonly understood that individuals grieve in diverse ways. Some may suppress their grief to continue with daily life. However, this doesn’t imply the grieving process has stopped. Often, suppressed grief manifests physically, resulting in discomfort or illness. To outsiders, we may seem to be coping, but internally, our bodies suffer greatly from the stress of repressed emotions.
Our minds are powerful, capable of fostering our wellness or contributing to our illness. We face a choice: to persist in negative patterns or to seek healing. In the 90s, I experienced six losses. Seeking guidance, I consulted a counselor, who advised me to prioritize self-care, especially since most of those I lost were of advanced age.
When I realize that I’m feeling run down, I understand it’s grief making its way through. I question whether I’m taking care of myself. Often, the answer is a resounding no. That’s when I know it’s time to reboot. I begin by reviewing my calendar, creating a to-do list, and planning my meals. Despite being aware of these strategies, the ‘grief fog’ can make everything seem futile. Rebooting may sound simple, but it’s challenging amidst the weight of this fog.
Putting one foot in front of the other is how you start. Eventually, the fog will lift. You will be able to walk forward. There will always be a piece of your heart that belongs to your loved one. Acknowledge that it is grief you are going through. Put on a smile and have a good day.
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Lady Hy: WisdomKeeper 