Loss.. it’s never easy.

A few weeks ago, on the spring equinox my family lost the person that brought us all here. Our Grandy. She was 93 and lived a good life. She was surrounded by all of us and we were surrounded by each other. For that, I will forever be grateful for.  Still, it doesn’t make the fact that she’s gone any easier. I figure we’re not the only ones going through a loss right now so I thought I would share some of the way’s that help me accept and make peace with loss. 

1. Let yourself cry. The worst thing you can do for your own health is hold in emotion. Let yourself cry as much as you need to. 
2. Look at pictures and remember all the amazing times they had in their life and all the times you got to spend with them. 
3. Plant some seeds. Literally. Nature is such an incredible healer and watching the seeds you planted turn into sprouts is so exciting! It also takes your mind off the sadness for a little bit. 
4. Prioritize fresh air. Once again, nature really is one of the best healers. Get outside, breathe in the fresh air. Cry during a walk if you need to. And then make sure you start to notice the beauty that surrounds you. How after winter comes spring and all of a sudden life starts coming back into the ground and hopefully within you too. 
5. Move your body.  Whether that be walking, yoga, pilates, running, a hit workout, hiking, skiing, barre.. move your body in a way that feels good. It will take your mind into your own body, even if it’s just for a short time, and hopefully, those endorphins will help you feel just a little better. 
6. Have something to remember your loved one by. If you’re lucky enough, maybe they gave you something when they were still here, maybe you even got to have something of theirs when they left. If not, buy yourself a little something in their honour that you can have forever. It feels like a little piece of them is always with you.
7. Be grateful. Be grateful that you got to know this amazing soul, be grateful for the times you spent together, be grateful you had them in your life for the time you did. Be grateful for the hugs, the kisses, the fights, the laughs, the cry’s, the good and the bad. Having gratitude for their life and the parts you got to play in it can bring such an immense amount of peace within. 
8. Know that they are always with you. I’m not sure how every single religion works but in my mind, Grandy’s spirit is always watching us and she is always there to talk to when I need her. She can’t talk back anymore but I know she’s listening.
9. And finally, be compassionate with yourself and the loved ones that are still here. Everyone grieves differently and you can take all the time in the world that you need. Just remember to take care of you.