10 Self-Care Ideas For Those Who Are Grieving
I know that grief can feel like a heavy weight to carry day after day after day. Some days, simply getting through is an act of strength in itself.
Trying to take good care of yourself while you're grieving is no small act. It is, instead, a very large gesture of respect to yourself and for yourself as you process your grief.
Over the years, in speaking to so many widows on Widow 180: The Podcast, I've learned that how well we take care of ourselves and how much we truly pay attention to our needs, is a direct reflection of how well we heal after loss.
Self-care is a testament to the resiliency of the human spirit.
Being true to yourself and showing up for yourself often means not showing up for everything and everyone else. It means listening to the small voice within and trusting yourself enough to stand by the decisions that are best for you.
When you’re grieving, self-care takes on a whole new meaning.
It’s a level of commitment to your needs, which can change hour by hour.
Maybe you said yes to an invitation, all the while feeling deep down you wish it was a “no”. So you make a choice to say no. You respect your right to change your mind.
You decide, instead, to commit to your own personal evolution and healing.
10 Self-Care Tips For Grievers
Here are 10 simple but powerful ways you can take care of yourself while grieving the greatest loss of your life. Each one is a gentle step toward restoring your energy, your spirit, and your heart.
1. Be willing to share how you really feel.
You don’t have to carry it all alone. When the weight feels heavy, let someone you trust know. Ask for help when you need it. Asking for help is not weakness—it’s wisdom.
2. Slow down.
Instead of rushing from one thing to the next, give yourself permission to move at a softer pace. Don’t rush through your day. Take your time. Make time just to breathe and be still. Your nervous system will thank you!
3. Find a calming phrase.
When your spirit is feeling particularly low, find a calming phrase or mantra that uplifts you. Repeat a mantra that soothes you. Something as simple as “I will be okay” or “I am loved” can be a lifeline on hard days.
4. Give yourself permission to say no.
You don’t need to attend every event, answer every call, or fulfill every request. Saying “no” creates space for healing, rest, and what truly matters.
5. Leave positive messages for yourself.
Write little reminders of encouragement and place them where you’ll see them. Sticky notes on the mirror, uplifting quotes on the fridge, or a kind message by your bed can brighten your day.
6. Notice what you did well today.
Even if it feels small, acknowledge it. You got out of bed, made a meal, or took a walk—that’s progress! Celebrate your efforts, no matter how simple.
7. Plan a joyful or restful activity.
What’s something that makes your heart feel lighter? A walk in nature, painting, reading, or watching a favorite movie? Make time for it and give yourself permission to truly enjoy. Be in the moment and enjoy yourself.
8. Ask a friend to tell you what strengths they see in you.
Sometimes, others see our resilience more clearly than we do. Let a trusted friend remind you of the strengths you might be overlooking.
9. Focus on the basics.
Grief can drain energy, but returning to the essentials makes a difference: nourishing food, gentle movement, fresh air, good sleep, and a quiet morning routine. Little things support your healing more than you may realize.
10. Remind yourself that you are enough.
In this season, you may feel broken—but you are still whole. You are enough exactly as you are, and even if the path feels uncertain, you are going to be okay.
I encourage you to pick one or two of these practices to begin with. You don’t have to do them all—just take one small step toward caring for yourself.
Self-care is listening to the whispers in your heart and soul that are telling you exactly what you need.
It is paying attention to those little tugs at your heart.
It is a journey of self-awareness.
It is placing an emphasis on the energy you give and where you give it.
It is the resolve to open your heart and mind to move through the ache of loss and move forward with grace and self-compassion.
You are moving through the most difficult time of your life.
But, you are not alone on this journey.
If you would like more support in widowhood, I encourage you to get the newest workbook in the Widow 180 Workbook Series, The New To Widowhood? Start Here! Workbook. In this workbook you’ll:
Find comfort and structure in the chaos of grief.
Gain tools to handle emotional waves and unexpected triggers.
Learn to honor your loved one while also caring for yourself.
Discover hope and strength you didn’t know you had.
Take one small step at a time — without pressure or judgment.
This is not just a workbook. It’s a lifeline for those who are new to widowhood — a place to release, reflect, and remember that you are not alone.
In it you’ll have a compassionate companion to help you survive the hardest season of your life — with structure, hope, and gentle encouragement along the way.
Get your copy today and take your next small step toward healing. Click HERE to get started!
