With the new year comes new resolutions, a word for the year, new intentions, and new goals. Often for grievers, the newness of another year can feel stale. Because the grief of the last year or years past is still lingering. So today, I’m sharing unique self-care practices for grievers.
I love the familiar yet timeless wisdom of Ecclesiastes 3:1: “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” So, this new year is an opportunity to try some new self-care practices to help with resetting our nervous system while nurturing our soul, finding comfort and healing amid grief.
5 Unique Self-Care Practices for Grievers
Nature Immersion Retreat:
"The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork." - Psalm 19:1.
For grieving hearts, a nature immersion retreat becomes a sacred space for reflection and connection with God’s creation.
Retreat to a peaceful natural setting where the stillness becomes a canvas for prayer and meditation. Engage in activities that bring you closer to God, our Creator, allowing the beauty of the outdoors to amplify your conversations with Him.
Creativity Exploration Day:
"In the beginning, God created..." - Genesis 1:1.
Embrace a creativity exploration day to channel your grief into artistic expression.
Whether through painting, writing, or crafting, let the creative process serve as a form of prayer. Recognize that, as co-creators with God, your expressions are a testament to His understanding of your deepest sorrows and His presence in your artistic journey.
Digital Detox Challenge:
"Be still, and know that I am God." - Psalm 46:10.
In the age of constant connectivity, a digital detox offers respite for grieving souls.
Disconnect from the virtual world, creating space for prayer, scripture reading, and contemplation. Use this time to immerse yourself in the Word of God, seeking comfort in His promises. A digital detox becomes a spiritual reset, allowing grievers to focus on their faith journey without the distractions of the digital realm.
Random Acts of Kindness Marathon:
"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased." - Hebrews 13:16.
Grief can sometimes lead to a sense of isolation.
Break through this isolation by engaging in a “Random Acts of Kindness” marathon. Reach out to others experiencing trials, embodying Christ’s love through acts of kindness. In giving, grievers find purpose and connection, experiencing the joy that comes from reflecting God’s love to those in need.
Mindful Taste Exploration:
"Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him." - Psalm 34:8.
Nourish both body and soul through mindful taste exploration.
Instead of focusing on rigid diets, savor the flavors of wholesome foods and appreciate the abundance provided by God. In the simplicity of taste, grievers find a reminder of God’s goodness even in sorrow, recognizing that the act of nourishing oneself is a form of self-love.
My prayer is that as we engage with one or all of these self-care practices we will experience peace, comfort, and wholeness in this season.
Sitting with you.
Natasha
“Can You Just Sit with Me?” by Natasha Smith is a significant exploration of grief that offers support to those struggling with loss.
Get the Book Here.