In times of transition, grief, and loss (of any kind) we need some things that are pretty universal: support, people who care, places to tell our story (perhaps some therapy or a support group) and, of course, time. However, there are other things that are unique to us, special objects that have helped comfort us through a loss. I have made a package of those thing that helped me with self-care, self-kindness and self-nurturing during hard times. I would like to share mine with you. Do you know someone who just needs a little extra TLC to get through their grieving? Are you in a time of transition in which you are letting go?
Here are the contents of the self-care/comfort kit that I am giving away:
- A signed copy of my book, The Next Happy (once it is released, February 24, 2015)
- A box of soothing Sleepytime tea.
- A journal to write your heart out into.
- A recipe for a comforting tuna casserole
- A Voluspa 2 Wick Metallo-Laguna candle to remind us that there is light in darkness
- Jewel’s “Lullaby” CD. For me, for some reason, Jewel singing “Simple Gifts” can almost always soothe me.
- Equally soothing, for me, is Thích Nhất Hạnh’s reminding me that all there is the breath. So, I am including his Plum Village Meditation in the package. “I am breathing in, I know I am breathing in.”
- Jennifer Louden’s wonderful book, “The Comfort Queen’s Guide to Life”. It’s a warm, comfy and wonderful reminder about what is really comforting and to find more novel ways to soothe ourselves than the standard comforts we most often turn to.
- The DVD “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” which is one of my favorite movies on the promise of transforming grief into a “Next Happy”.
Please enter, and please be sure to share what things have helped you during hard times. Good luck!
After my 7 & 8th loss (twins) I was just shattered inside. I had always wanted a Sheltie so I became obsessed with getting one. She has been the best therapy ever for me. She has allowed me to smother her in the love that I didn’t get to smother my babies in. She kissed my tears away and no matter where I am, she is only inches away. She loves my husband but our bond is stronger. I finally get to be Mommy, even if my child has four legs instead of two.
Carla: I so understand. Actually, several years ago, in Jamie Cat Callan’s book, “Bonjour, Happiness!”, I shared how my West-highland White Terrier got me up and out and dressed, when I had a hard time doing it. I unapologetically spoil her rotten. She’s my “baby”. I am so happy you have that beautiful Sheltie of yours. I love how you say, “I finally get to be Mommy, even if my child has four legs instead of two.” Can I borrow that?;-) Thanks to much, Carla!
Of course!
I heard about this from Jody Day at Gateway Women. What a lovely offer! I have posted on my FB page for HSP Health and hope many come to you because of it. FYI, the links to post to Pinterest did not work for me.
All the best,
Maria Hill
HSP Health
Thanks so much, Maria! I appreciate your sharing this on your FB page. And I am so grateful to Jody for sharing it too. Will get on fixing the Pinterest issue, thanks for letting me know!
During hard times, music is always helps me. Somehow , sad music makes my sadness not seem so bad. A good non-judgemental psychotherapist has also been very helpful.
Yes, to “good non-judgmental psychotherapists”! And, yes, to music—it is a major soother! Thanks so much, M.
After my cervical cancer diagnosis and subsequent hysterectomy, I took a lot of comfort in getting lost in a book or a movie. It was good to be curled up, relaxing and allowing my mind to go to a fantasy place. I also found that I sought out quotes that made me feel strong or that validated my grief.
Once I started blogging, I took a lot of comfort in the words other bloggers – they helped me to see I would get through it; that it was possible to get through it.
Also, laying in bed with lots of blankets drinking tea or wine. There is something about being snuggly that was very good for me
Thanks for sharing this, Nicole. Where there any movies or films that were particularly soothing? Also, I would LOVE if you would be willing to share a quote or two that really validated you.
I completely agree with you on the value of blankets and tea!
What a great idea Tracey! Though I like to have this for myself I like to win it for someone else who could use it even more, so I hope to win. I have pre-ordered your book and look forward to reading it.
What comforts me most in hard times is being alone in nature…ocean, top of a mountain…away from people
So glad you entered! Yes, I second the healing value of nature. Water is always a good spot for emotions, even bath water helps.;-)
Hi, Tracey!
Is the contest only open for those who live in the US?
Anyway, these are the things that have helped me during hard times:
1. Exercise out my anger (kickboxing/boxing movements are really effective for me).
2. Listening to music when I’m feeling sad/lost.
3. Write, write, write out my honest feelings/thoughts without any restraint (no need to publish it, just let them all out of my system).
4. Talk to someone empathetic/supportive.
5. Find the small joys in life and really hold on to them with all my might (perhaps just a simple fact that the stars are so beautiful or the sun is out again after cloudy days).
6. Sleep a lot, because lack of sleep only brings my mood down.
7. Find Bible verses that can strengthen me.
8. Praying the Serenity Prayer over and over again.
9. Imagine a BFF figure in my mind (when I’m being harsh on myself) and then having a conversation with that figure in which my BFF really helps me love myself the way I am.
10. Read inspiring quotes/appropriate books/watch inspirational videos.
Prayer, mediation, a nice fire in the fireplace, my cat on my lap,,my friendships, knowing people love me in my grief. I lost 2 stepfathers this past year, and my mom moved away. Writing has helped a lot and when I feel stronger and I help another, or call another it helps me too. Reading “God Works the night shift”.