7 ways to make space for Grief

This piece was written in 2023. 

For many of us, these past three years, we’ve been swimming in the depths of continuous loss and grief. The endless cycles of loss, bereavement, and grief have felt overwhelming. It makes sense though for so much of that grief has felt inaccessible. We haven't had much of a break to slow down, pause and notice what we are holding in our hearts, bodies, and minds. 

When you are trying to survive, disconnecting from yourself becomes a familiar practice to help you just get by. So, how are we expected to swim in these deep, murky waters without coming up for air? How does one grieve when we are navigating so much enduring, persistent loss? 

The truth is that for many of us, grief is an uninvited guest. We hesitate, avoid, and/or jump through hurdles so that we can avoid the waves of grief that may rise high like the tides or trickle slowly onto the shores or edges of our minds. Grief is always there, whether you notice it or not. So many of us have experienced loss in some form. Whether the physical loss of someone you love or the loss of the person you used to be. Loss comes in many forms, so does our grief. 

Part of what I am inviting you to consider is a new way or perspective to be in relationship to grief. What if we imagined grief as a portal to our healing? This portal is a door or an entryway to what you may need the most at this time. Healing looks different for everyone. Grieving will be unique to you. If you welcome grief, you allow space for your healing.  

Here are some ways to make space for grief:

• Consider a ritual or practice to tend to your grief. 

• You can imagine a few ways to help you make space for grief.

• Scheduling time each day or once a week to center this grief practice.

• Consider an altar for your grief. 

• You can include photos 

• Items that represent what you are grieving

• Write a letter to your loved one who transitioned.

• Write a letter to the past self/who you used to be. 

• Spend time near the elements that you are drawn to (earth, fire, water, air, ether, metal, wood, etc.)

• Make space to cry (if that’s your thing!)

• Connect with your ancestors. Find ways to do this that feel good to you. We have some tips to connect with ancestors in Episode 12 of the Reclaiming Soul Work Podcast.

Which ones resonate the most with you? Why? Are there any others you would add to this list? Please do share in the comments.