Seasons In Grief

A Time For Everything

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a a time for peace.” Ecclesiastes 3: 1-8

Yes, I just quoted scripture. I don’t often do that here, but my faith IS a part of my healing journey. I have a hope through all my grief because of Him, so it would be a disservice to you if I didn’t tell you where my strength comes from. This passage right here is a story of what we all have or will experience in our lives…and He’s prepared for it. Re-read that last paragraph…does it resonate with you?

Every year around this time, my body craves rest. The signs are everywhere: from the blanket of leaves on the sidewalk, to the way the light just hits differently on the clouds. It’s the season…the one where we rebuild, save our energy and plot out our spring.

Autumn can feel like season of grief. For many, it’s easy to become depressed during the fall and winter months. Hopelessness can set in quickly, and if we let it, the weight of it can smother us.

Tools to help combat and support your Autumn grief.

  • Don’t fight it. Feeling your grief and understanding it is a step towards healing.

  • Take as good care of yourself as possible. Comforting foods, comforting conversations with friends, and staying active.

  • Reach out to friends and family, because you deserve to have the support you need during grief. If you’re needing professional help, seek a therapist or support group in your area. If you need help with this…we’re here for you.

  • Get into the light. Seasonal depression is real. Get as much sunlight as you can. If you live in areas that get less daylight, try UV lights to supplement like THIS ONE.

  • Don’t remain isolated, even though it’s wintertime. Find solace alone when needed, but find company and life in others and from the outside world.

  • Soothe yourself with some pampering: A warm bath, massages, a cuddly blanket and a cup of warm tea. Even something as easy as a trigger point ball like THIS is helpful.

  • Enjoy comfort foods that warm and nourish the body and soul. Try making a different soup each week. Start HERE for ideas.