Self-Care & Wellness

Ways to nurture yourself emotionally and physically during grief

Grief is a deeply personal journey, affecting both our emotional and physical well-being. When we lose someone we love, it can feel as though the world has shifted beneath our feet, making even the simplest acts of self-care seem overwhelming. Yet, during these times of immense sorrow and pain, tending to our own needs, to our own well-being, is one of the most loving things we can do for ourselves.

After David’s diagnosis, keeping life “normal” was incredibly difficult. At times, the weight of uncertainty and stress felt unbearable. I found solace in the small things—walking to clear my head and cooking to distract myself from the craziness. After his passing, I made a conscious effort to schedule something each day that would bring me joy, even if only for a few moments. It was a way to take a step away from sadness, to love myself, and to be kind to myself. This, I came to realize, was self-care.

Grief can feel overwhelming, making self-care seem like an afterthought. But I’ve learned that caring for myself isn’t just important—it’s essential for healing. There is no wrong or right way to heal but prioritizing our emotional and physical well-being gives us the strength to continue to navigate our loss with grace.

Here are some ways you can gently incorporate self-care into your daily life:

Physical Self Care: Nourishing Your Body

• Move in a way that feels good – For me, walking became more than exercise; it was a way to clear my mind and process emotions. Whether it’s a stroll, yoga, or dancing in your kitchen, movement can be healing.

• Cook Something Comforting – Cooking was (and still is) a form of therapy for me. Preparing a meal with intention—whether a favorite dish or something new—can be a soothing ritual.

• Prioritize Rest – Grief is exhausting. Give yourself permission to rest, whether that means sleeping in, taking a nap, or simply slowing down.

Emotional Self-Care: Honor Your Feelings

• Journaling – Writing became a safe space to release my thoughts. Even if it’s just jotting a few sentences each day, it can help process emotions.

• Allow Yourself to Feel – Some days are harder than others. Instead of fighting emotions, I learned to let them come and go, knowing that each feeling is valid.

• Set Boundaries – I’ve had to learn when to say no, which for me is still very hard to do, but when certain things begin to drain me, I realize that protecting your energy is an act of self-care.

Mental & Spiritual Self-Care: Finding Moments of Peace

• Practice Mindfulness – Even a few deep breaths can help. I’ve found comfort in small, quiets moments—watching the sunrise, being thankful for God’s creation, sipping tea, or just sitting in the stillness

•  Engage in Creativity – Cooking became a creative outlet, but so did listening to music, trying new recipes, and even writing. Creativity can be an escape and a release.

• ·Spend Time in Nature – Walking outdoors, along the sandy beaches, listening to the sound of the waves, nature is incredibly grounding.

• Read or Listen to Something Uplifting – Books, podcasts, or music, anything that inspires hope.

Social & Relational Self-Care: Finding Connection

• Lean on Others – I say this a lot. I used to think I had to carry my grief alone, but connecting with friends sharing memories, joining a support group with others who are grieving and sharing your story, and even asking for help can make a difference.

•   Do Something Kind – Sometimes, shifting your focus outward—writing a note to someone, volunteering, or even a simple act of kindness—helps you to feel connected.

• · Take Breaks from Social Media – Some days you just need to step away from social media as it can become overwhelming. By doing this, it gives you the space you need to heal at your own pace.

Embracing Self-Care as a Form of Self-Love

Self-care is not selfish—it’s essential. It’s about showing ourselves the same kindness we would offer to a dear friend. Grief has no timeline, and healing doesn’t mean forgetting. It means learning to carry our loss in a way that allows us to still find light in the darkness.

Small steps matter. A five- minute walk, a deep breath, a comforting meal—these are not insignificant. They are acts of love, reminders that even in sorrow, we are worthy of care.

If you are grieving, I encourage you to reflect on what self-care looks like for you. What brings you even a moment of peace? What small action can you take today to nurture yourself? Whatever it is, be gentle with yourself. You deserve kindness. Whatever it looks like for you, remember: You deserve care, too.

Remember, take good care of YOU!

Patti