I don't know about you, but for over a decade starting a new year brought so much anxiety to my heart. It was a holiday I hated the most. And to have to face it every year, just reminded my heart I had to do all the hard dates, holidays and events all over again. I just did them all, why would I want to relive them and do it all over again... I was tired of facing them.
Sweet Momma, how are you feeling about the new year? This transition to a New Year can be so tender and can bring overwhelming feelings of anxiety and uncertainty, especially it us Mommas who have lost a child.
The thought of beginning anew and reliving tender days can be so nerve-wracking. If you find yourself already experiencing this, you're not alone, my heart feels with you. This blog is for you, so you can cope with post-holiday so this New Year isn't a Groundhog cycle.
I have 5 suggestions for you my friend:
First Reflect on What Worked and Did Not.
By reflecting on this previous year. Start by carving out some alone time to make a list of things that made you happy last year. Then, make a list of things that brought you stress, anxiety, and discomfort. Remember, it's okay to start small and take baby steps to see this new year differently.
Second Practice Self-Care
Taking care of your Feminine & Masculine energy is crucial during the post-holiday season. Make self-care a priority especially in your Inner Winter. Schedule those self-care activities on your calendar and put yourself first. Remember, self-care is not selfish, you can not give if your cup is empty. A full cup allows you to act from self-love which will help bring balance and to the tenderness of grief in your life.
Third Create a New Routine
Life with Grief can feel so heavy when we continuously repeat similar activities daily. To break that Groundhog cycle, try to create a new routine that encourage you to try something new. For instance, try hiking, cooking new recipes, picking up a new hobby, or joining a volunteer group. Best of all, with Grief doing activities with other Sweet Mommas can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Fourth Connect with Friends and Family
Make it a point to connect with loved ones regularly, even if it's just through a phone call or video chat. Rekindling friendships and creating new connections tend to create that healthy distract from the heaviness of Grief. Allow yourself to rest when you need and try to stay busy with new fun memories that are different from old ones, with new experiences and new people.
Fifth Seek Professional Help
If your feelings of anxiety persist and your Grief & Loss journey is affecting your daily routines, do not hesitate to seek professional help from a certified mental health counselor. They can help you work through those heavy symptoms. Or consider working with a Grief Coach, someone who can walk alongside you can remind you that you aren't alone, that your feelings are valid. Or utilize both options, to help you create a personalized plan so you can support yourself.
From one Momma who lost a child to another, I want you to Remember that you are not alone. And that there is always help available. The most important thing is to be kind to yourself and take things one breath at a time. I have created a valuable Grief support course that you can do at your own time and pace. Or I am happy to connect with you one on one, whatever brings you the most support in the way you need it the most.
Happy Brave New Year to you a sweet Momma.
I'm Always in your corner, Tanya ((hugs))