Heartfelt Tips for Grieving During the Holidays

The holiday season can be particularly challenging for those navigating grief and loss. Some are mourning recent losses, while others carry grief that has accompanied them for years. Many are grappling with multiple losses in a short span of time and others are meeting new parts of their grief that they had not yet met before. 

As we gather for holiday celebrations, there's often an unspoken awareness of someone missing from our tables and traditions. Sometimes, we need to lean into that awareness by offering space for someone to share their grief and their story. Connection happens through companionship.

Below, I share ten tips for navigating the holidays while honoring the presence of loss in our lives and hearts. What helps you navigate this time of year? 

In addition, my Coaching as Benevolence Podcast features an insightful conversation with Ed Owens, Vice President of the Grief Recovery Institute. Some of these tips draw from his profound wisdom, while others are based on themes I’ve observed in my work supporting grievers during the holiday season. Be sure to tune in here for this compelling episode.

Holiday Tips for Grievers

1. Be Open to Comfort
   Start by giving yourself a hug and find someone who can offer a supportive hug and simply listen to you.

2. Be Honest About Your Feelings
   Allow yourself to acknowledge and express your emotions as they arise.

3. Create Movement for Your Emotions
   Engage in activities like listening to music, taking walks, or creating art to help emotions flow.

4. Know You Are Loved
   Even in moments of deep pain, love surrounds you.

5. Embrace Your Emotions
   It’s okay to feel exactly how you feel. When overwhelmed, let your emotions move through you in ways that feel supportive.

6. Acknowledge Loneliness
   Grief can feel isolating. Share your experience with someone who can empathize.

7. Welcome Moments of Happiness
   It’s natural to feel joy or humor, even, while grieving. These moments don’t diminish your loss but honor your capacity to hold both sorrow and joy.

8. Honor Your Loved Ones
   Reflect on meaningful ways to remember and celebrate those who are no longer with you.

9. Forgive Yourself
   Let go of guilt or self-punishment for any perceived missteps you may be carrying.

10. Lean Into Higher Love
    Open yourself to heart-centered possibilities this season. No grief is too vast to bear with love and connection by your side.

I hope these tips bring you comfort and encouragement as you navigate the holidays. Remember, you don’t have to face this season—or your grief—alone. If you would like to connect, I am here for you. Feel free to reach out. Email me at eryn@rootsandwingsgriefcoaching.com or call or text me at (720) 745-0976.