Grief hits everyone differently, but no matter how you grieve, doing even the simplest tasks can seem impossible. Setting simple, healthy goals can help you mentally and physically as you heal.
Get Rest
The typical adult needs at least seven hours of sleep each day, but your sleep schedule may get off track while you’re grieving. Some people struggle to sleep due to their grief while others sleep all the time to avoid processing the loss. Aim for a healthy, regular sleep routine to get enough, but not too much, rest.
Choose Healthy Foods
If you’ve lost your appetite or you’re relying on junk food to keep you full, set goals for healthier eating options. The USDA MyPlate guidelines recommend filling half your plate with fruits and veggies. Buy precut produce to make it easier to eat healthy options. Order meals through a meal prep service if you don’t feel like cooking due to your grief.
Move Your Body
Exercise can get pushed aside while you’re grieving. If you’re not meeting the recommended 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week, set small goals to work up to this amount. Walking with a friend lets you get exercise and connect with others, which can be healing. The benefits of exercise include relaxation, less anxiety, improved happiness, better sleep, and increased energy, which can help you during the grieving process.
Do Things You Enjoy
It can be difficult to find enjoyment in life while you grieve, but those pleasurable activities can help you heal. Set aside time to do something you enjoy each day, such as spending time in nature, having coffee with a friend, or pursuing a hobby. Play music that helps you feel inspired or hopeful. Journal as a way to process your grief.
Pursue New Opportunities
Losing a loved one can make you think about your life and how short it is. Use this as inspiration to pursue your dreams now instead of waiting. One way to do this is to earn a degree to pursue a new career path or earn an advanced degree to progress in your field. Online degree programs, such as those that can help you earn your MBA, offer a convenient way to earn a degree while you still work and take care of family commitments. Ensure the online school is accredited and offers affordable tuition and fees.
Seek Support
Grieving by yourself can make you feel isolated and can prolong the healing process. Schedule an appointment with a therapist to work through your grief and to learn coping strategies. Talk to your physician to get support as far as taking care of yourself physically. Hire services for chores such as cleaning your house, or ask friends and family for support as needed.
Develop a Routine
Losing a loved one can completely disrupt your routine, especially if you served as the person’s caregiver. Having some type of structure or routine helps you feel better and can help you achieve other goals during grieving. Incorporate the most important factors for meeting your needs into your routines, such as meals, exercise, and time with friends or family.
Set Healthy Goals
Small, simple goals can help you heal as you grieve. Explore the wellness archives from Spiritself Health for more inspiration.
Author: Camille Johnson
Pics: pixabay, pexels