Honoring Grief and Embracing Self-Care During the Holidays

The holiday season is often filled with joy, celebration, and connection—but for those of us grieving, it can also be a time of deep reflection, sadness, and longing. If you're navigating loss during this time, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone and that it's ok to feel how you feel. 

We all know grief doesn’t follow a timeline or a linear path, and it doesn’t take a break for the holidays. That’s why self-care is especially essential during this season. Taking gentle care of your emotional, physical, and mental well-being can provide much-needed space to process and heal.

Breathe!

Self-care means different things for everyone. It might mean saying “no” to invitations that feel overwhelming, or creating new honorversaries, rituals, or traditions that honor your loved one and keep memories alive. It could be as simple as allowing yourself to rest, journaling your thoughts, seeking professional support, or spending quiet time in nature.

Setting healthy boundaries, expressing your emotions, and practicing self-compassion can create a sense of stability when everything feels uncertain. Give yourself permission to grieve in your own way, without comparison or judgment. 

If you're supporting someone who is grieving, a heartfelt check-in, a listening ear, or simply holding space can make a meaningful difference.  Some just being with someone is more important than doing anything.

This holiday season, may we all extend grace, patience, kindness, and love to ourselves and to one another on this journey.