Grief is often described as a journey, but I prefer to think of it as a roller coaster. One moment, you might feel like you're on solid ground, and the next, you're plunging into a wave of emotions you didn't see coming. And guess what? That's perfectly normal.
The Messiness of Grief
Let's get one thing straight: grief is messy business!
It's not a straight path with a clear destination. It's more like a wild, unpredictable ride with twists and turns that can leave you feeling disoriented and overwhelmed. You might be having a "normal" day, and then, out of nowhere, a memory or a trigger can hit you like a ton of bricks, and suddenly, you're in tears.
Grief is messy business, but accepting that fact is an
important step in navigating your grief journey
Please know that if you have experienced this influx of emotions, you are not alone, and it is a completely normal response when you have had a profound loss. This is the nature of grief. It's a complex, deeply personal process that doesn't follow any set rules or timelines. And while it can be incredibly challenging, understanding and accepting the messiness of grief is an important step in navigating it.
Embrace the Ups and Downs
One of the most important things to remember about grief is that it's okay to feel a wide range of emotions. There will be days when you feel relatively "okay" and days when you can't stop crying.
Both are valid.
Embrace the ups and downs as they come. Allow yourself to feel whatever you're feeling without judgment or pressure to "move on."
Some Quick Tips for Navigating the Grief Roller Coaster
Acknowledge Your Feelings: Whatever you're feeling, acknowledge it. Grief can bring up a myriad of emotions, from sadness and anger to guilt and relief. Recognizing and accepting these feelings is a crucial part of the healing process.
Find Healthy Outlets: Find ways to express your emotions in a healthy manner. This could be through journaling, talking with a friend, or engaging in creative activities like painting or music. Physical activities like yoga or walking can also help release pent-up emotions.
Seek Support: You don't have to navigate the grief roller coaster alone. Reach out to friends, family, or a support group. Talking about your feelings with others who understand can provide comfort and validation.
Be Kind to Yourself: Grief is exhausting. It's important to take care of yourself, both physically and emotionally. Get plenty of rest, eat well, and give yourself permission to take breaks when you need them.
Create Rituals: Creating small rituals can provide a sense of control and connection. This could be lighting a candle in memory of your loved one, visiting a special place, or setting aside time each day for reflection.
You're Not Alone
Remember, grief is a deeply personal experience, but you don't have to go through it alone. As a grief coach, I'm here to support you through every twist and turn. If you're struggling to navigate your grief, reach out. Let's walk this path together, one step at a time.
Navigating the grief roller coaster isn't easy, but with the right support and self-compassion, you can find your way through. Embrace the journey, messiness and all, and know that healing is possible.
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