In the wake of loss, it’s completely normal to experience feelings of loneliness – especially if the person you lost was someone you were particularly close to, like a spouse or parent. It can sometimes feel as though there’s suddenly a void in your life that seems impossible to fill. And while this experience is a common component of the grieving process, it isn’t something you must simply learn to live with. Here are a few tips to help you work through these feelings so you can begin to experience joy and fulfillment once again.
Focus on remaining in the present.
This is a simple but incredibly powerful step for laying the groundwork of healing. And, as you may have already noticed, it can be much easier said than done. In order to move forward to a place of peace and personal contentment, however, you must focus your attention and energy on being in the present. By taking each moment as it comes and keeping your mind where your body is, rather than behind or ahead of it, you will be better able to witness and experience the beauty of the world around you.
Get moving.
When you’re in the throes of grief, the thought of being active can seem downright overwhelming. Sometimes, just getting out of bed in the morning can feel like a chore. But being active isn’t just good for your physical body. It’s also an important part of living an emotionally/mentally happy, healthy and fulfilling life. Push yourself to get up and move, even when it’s the last thing you feel like doing. You don’t have to run a marathon, just commit to doing something active. The adrenaline and serotonin release you’ll experience as a result will make it well worth the extra effort.
Be there for yourself.
The one person who will never leave you is…you. In that respect, it can be helpful to recognize that you will never be truly alone. As such, in times of grief and loneliness, it’s incredibly important to be there for yourself. Accept the feelings you’re experiencing. Acknowledge your emotions. Be gentle with yourself. And, most importantly, reach out for help if and when you need it. Take care of the person who will always be there for you – yourself!
Give to others.
Spiritual experts often recommend that when you are feeling deficient in a certain area, you should actively seek out opportunities to help someone else who is also lacking in that area. So, if you are feeling lonely, find someone else who is also experiencing loneliness and give them some of your time. Not only will this help that other person, but in turn, the kindness, care and attention you are so generously giving will return back to you tenfold.
Create a memorial.
If you’re struggling to heal from the loss of a loved one and you’re battling feelings of loneliness, memorializing that person can be a cathartic experience. Whether it’s a tree planted in their honor, a picture collage hanging in your home, a piece of remembrance art or something else, having a physical representation of that person’s life can help keep them alive in your heart and provide a dedicated place where you can spend time whenever you’re feeling particularly alone.
At the end of the day, as difficult as it can be to remember, we are all in this journey of life together. Using the five tips above as a guideline, slowly but surely, you’ll be able to overcome the feelings of loneliness you’re experiencing, regain control and enjoy the beautiful, fulfilling life you deserve.
