The Connection Between Grief and Self-Care
The Connection Between Grief and Self-Care
At Mayes Ward Dobbins Funeral Home, we have walked alongside families in our community for over a century. In that time, one truth has remained constant: grief touches every part of life. It doesn’t just affect the heart—it impacts the body, mind, and spirit.
In the midst of loss, it’s easy to put your own well-being aside. But self-care is not selfish—it’s one of the most important ways to give yourself the strength to heal and honor your loved one.
-
Mental Health: Giving Yourself Permission to Feel
Grief can feel unpredictable—sadness, anger, relief, confusion, or even laughter may come in waves. Allowing yourself to feel these emotions without judgment is a key step toward healing. Journaling, joining a support group, or simply talking with someone you trust can help lighten the weight of emotions that feel too heavy to carry alone.
-
Nutrition: Nourishing Your Body Through the Pain
When grieving, eating often feels unimportant. Some people lose their appetite, while others find comfort in food. Either way, your body needs steady nourishment to handle the stress of loss. Choosing simple, balanced meals—fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and staying hydrated—can provide your body with the strength it needs. Even small, mindful choices in what you eat can make the days ahead a little easier.
-
Sleep: Resting a Restless Heart
Sleep is often disrupted by grief. You may lie awake with racing thoughts or wake up often during the night. Creating a calming bedtime routine—turning off screens, drinking a warm cup of tea, reading something comforting, or listening to soft music—can help restore rest. Adequate sleep allows your mind and body to recover, making it easier to navigate the difficult days ahead.
-
Mindfulness: Finding Calm Moments in the Storm
Grief can feel overwhelming, but small practices of mindfulness can bring moments of peace. Breathing exercises, prayer, meditation, or even a quiet walk outdoors can help you stay grounded. These moments won’t erase the pain, but they offer a safe place for calm in the midst of heartache.
Walking With You
At Mayes Ward Dobbins, we know grief doesn’t follow a schedule. It unfolds in its own way and time. Our family has been honored to serve yours for more than 100 years, and we are here to walk with you—not only in planning a meaningful farewell but in the days, weeks, and months after.
Taking care of yourself during grief does not mean moving on and forgetting. It means finding strength to move forward—one small step at a time—while holding your loved one close in memory and in heart.
~ Sarah Driskell
