Getting Healthy and Grieving Can Go Hand-In-Hand

Research has shown that grief is related to decreased physical health. Grief can cause both emotional and physical reactions that can affect our health. like poor sleep, weight gain decreased physical activity, and unhealthy eating behaviors.

Whatever stage of grief you’re working through, you can and should improve the behaviors that may be negatively impacting your health.

Get Professional Help

If you’re experiencing symptoms of distress, such as crying, insomnia, loss of appetite, increased irritability, anger, or panic attacks. Or if you’re struggling to complete everyday tasks, then it’s probably time to speak to a professional therapist.

Many people suffering from grief are sometimes uncomfortable with leaving the house. That is when online therapy is a choice to consider. Online therapy is convenient, secure, private, and less of a commitment than in-person therapy. When you choose to see an online therapist, you'll have a wider variety of licensed professionals to choose from, save time on travel, and pay less for mental health care. Many therapists also offer a complimentary consultation to ensure you find the right match.Improve Your SleepMake sure you’ve eliminated any light sources and lower your room temperature to 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit. White noise, like a box fan, has shown it can aid in more restful sleep too. If you don’t want to run a fan, there are devices and phone apps that can produce white noise too. A comfortable mattress and pillows are essential for good sleep. If you’re a side sleeper, your pillow should comfortably support your head, neck, and ear as well as your shoulder.Resolve to Eat BetterA well-balanced diet can help you withstand the stress of grieving. Increase your servings of vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins, and don’t forget to drink plenty of water. Increase protein intake to between 10 and 30 percent of your daily caloric intake. If you don’t have much of an appetite, start with smaller portions more frequently throughout the day. Add a daily multivitamin to the mix to cover any missing nutrients. Combine Exercise With Getting OutsideFresh air and sunshine are excellent mood enhancers as they increase the serotonin levels (our happiness hormone) our body produces. And the Vitamin D we absorb from the sun helps us to absorb calcium and phosphate from our food, keeping our bones, teeth, and muscles nice and strong. Just 30 minutes of walking every day can increase cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, reduce excess body fat, and boost muscle power and endurance. It can also reduce your risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and some cancers. A goal of 10,000 steps per day is ideal for achieving the maximum benefits, but that is a goal you can work up to gradually. Finding a New FocusVolunteering helps people focus on things in their life that they are grateful for. Helping those in need makes you feel more valued and allows you to focus on making a contribution instead of grief. Music has multiple mental health benefits, whether you’re playing an instrument, singing, or just listening to music you enjoy. Joining a group of musicians or going to small music venues are great ways to connect with friends again, too. Taking a cooking class has multiple benefits. You’ll be learning how to cook and prepare healthier meals, you’ll gain satisfaction from learning new skills, and you’ll be socializing with others When You’re Grieving the Loss of a PetWhen your grief comes from losing a pet, you can find comfort in knowing they are still a part of your home by interring their ashes in a special pet urn. As Spiritpet Urns says, “Our pets walk our life’s journey with us - all the ups and downs together.” Spiritpet Urns provide custom-made pet urns for dogs, cats, and horses to pet owners as a great way to show your love and pay tribute to a life that meant so much to you. Their handmade urns for pets are also a special way to celebrate the love that you both shared. Commemorate this relationship by providing a perfect resting place for your pets.

Healthy grief is not about just moving on or getting over it. Healthy grief means establishing a new relationship with the deceased, one that involves treasuring memories and an enduring connection. It’s a time to reexamine your own life and make positive changes that would make your lost loved one proud.