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The holiday season can be one of the most challenging times when you’re missing someone in Heaven. During this time, you might find yourself struggling to get through the day, and wanting to hibernate to survive it all. The following suggestions have worked wonders for me. My hope for anyone reading this is that they help make your holiday gentle as well.
Take naps. – Rest can be incredibly cathartic. Grief, sadness, and depression take a tremendous amount of energy out of our bodies. When you feel like all you want to do is give up, retreat to your bed with a warm cup of tea (or beverage/snack of your liking) and allow yourself to relax and rest. Honor that your soul needs rest.
Talk. – Whether it’s a close friend, virtual friend in a Facebook group, or a therapist, talking about your feelings is a huge help. The mere aspect of knowing that you are not alone is an enormous comfort. Not everyone will understand your level of grief, but every now and then, you will find someone who “gets it” and connects with you on a soul level of understanding. And… You never know whom you’re also helping along the way.
Say no. – Pushing yourself when you are already exhausted serves no purpose other than making yourself irritable, agitated, and more exhausted. Say no to any extra commitments and do not feel obligated to do anything that doesn’t feel good.
Honor your loved one. – Start a new tradition in their memory. I like to purchase a new ornament each year because it feels good. No, it’s not the same but it’s a little special something between you and them. (Our loved ones are always watching.)
Be present. – Sounds counterintuitive right? When we are feeling anxious, we’re living in the past. When we are feeling fearful, we are living in the future. When we practice being present, we only have this moment. All we have to do is get through this moment.
Wishing you a peaceful holiday filled with an abundance of signs from your loved ones.