Self-Care
Intention
Find at least one way to practice self-care.
NOTICE
Notice what self-care actions you can do for yourself. What comes to mind when you think of self-care? Is it treating yourself to a massage, a haircut, a long bubble bath, a hike in nature, or getting your nails done? Allow yourself to find at least one thing you might not ordinarily treat yourself to and do it. What are the reasons you come up with for not doing the special self-care activity? Now take a step back and ask yourself, why not? When we face grief, doing something special for ourselves is important in moving through pain and suffering.
EMOTION
How do you feel today? How much energy do you have? Today allow a positive memory of your loved one to surface. Are you ready for this? Imagine the size of your grief today, is it bigger than a small cat or bigger than an elephant?
ACTION
Give yourself a hug. (a mini self-care act)
–Fold your arms around your body, positioning them in a way that feels natural and comfortable.
–Rest your hands on your shoulders or upper arm (just above your biceps).
–Imagine the type of hug you want.
–Squeeze yourself with just enough pressure to create a sensation of being held.
–Hold the hug for as long as you like.
REFLECT
“When one person is missing the whole world seems empty.” (Pat Schweibert)
Consider this quote and how it impacts you. Write in your journal thoughts, questions, or observations.