Are you feeling overwhelmed by the waves of grief that come with losing someone you love? You're not alone. August 30 is National Grief Awareness Day, a time to honor the emotional journey of grief and loss. Grieving is a deeply personal process, its so different for everyone, and it's essential to allow yourself the space and grace to navigate these intense feelings. I know how isolating it can feel, I know how tough it is to get back to life when it seems yours has stopped completely, but remember that your emotions are valid, whatever you feel is ok, and there is no ‘right’ way to grieve.

Acknowledge Your Feelings

It is said… the first step in coping with grief is to acknowledge your feelings. It’s important to accept that it's okay to feel sad, angry, confused, or even numb. Its ok to cry, its ok to not want to speak to anyone, its ok to do what you need for you. These emotions are all part of the grieving process. Give yourself permission to experience them without judgment. Its not easy.. And as the world goes on around you.. Its ok to slow down.  Sometimes, simply allowing yourself to feel can be a powerful step toward healing.

Reach Out for Support

Grief can often make us feel isolated, but it's crucial to reach out for support if you can. Whether it's talking to a trusted friend, joining a support group, or seeking professional help, connecting with others can provide comfort and understanding. Sharing your feelings and memories can be a significant relief, helping you realize that you’re not alone in your journey.

Create a Routine

This is huge! While it might be difficult, maybe even seem impossible… try to establish a daily routine. Something as simple as waking up at a certain time can even help. Grief can disrupt your normal life, making it hard to find motivation (trust me, im right there with ya!)  Start small – make your bed, have a meal, take a shower. These little victories can provide a sense of normalcy and help you regain a bit of control over your life.

Honor Your Loved One

Finding ways to honor the memory of your loved one can be a healing part of your grief journey. This could be through creating a scrapbook, planting a tree, or simply setting aside time to reflect on happy memories. Something that has helped me is being open to recognizing signs that they are here with us.  Its not always easy but if you can see them… whether it be a hummingbird, butterfly, or feather in your path- it can give a sense of relief and comfort that your loved ones are trying to remind you that they are still on this journey with us.  Honoring their life can help you find a sense of peace and connection and reliving the memories can even bring that smile back.

Practice Self-Care

Taking care of yourself is vital during this time. Everyone says it but I know its not always easy.  Engage in activities that nourish your mind, body, and spirit. These things can make you feel alive again. Whether it’s going for a walk, meditating, writing, reading a book, or using a favorite skincare product, self-care can provide a much-needed respite from the intensity of grief. Our hydrating lip gloss can be a small but meaningful addition to your self-care routine, offering both protection and a touch of brightness to your day.

Seek Professional Help

If your grief feels overwhelming or prolonged, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can provide you with tools and strategies to navigate your emotions and support your healing process.

Grief is a profound and often painful journey, but it's also a testament to the love we have for those we've lost. In the upcoming National Grief Awareness Day on August 30, let’s honor our emotional journey, support one another, and remember that healing takes time. Stay strong, stay beautiful, and keep shining. Together, we can navigate the waves of grief and find our way to a place of peace. Im grateful you're here on this journey with me.  Life can throw some curveballs that make us question our path- but it is always comforting to be reminded that we are not alone.