Finding Healing Through Grief: Embracing Self-Care in Times of Loss

Grief is a powerful and deeply personal experience that can shake the foundation of our lives. When someone like Mrs. Vickie Collier, a vibrant and loving soul, passes away, the ripple effect touches everyone who knew her. Navigating grief is challenging, but it also opens a path to healing when we allow ourselves the space to process, reflect, and care for our own well-being. Taking time for yourself during these moments is not selfish—it is essential.

Understanding Grief and Its Impact

Grieving is not a linear process. It can come in waves, sometimes overwhelming and other times subtle. The loss of someone like Vickie Collier, who was known for her energy, humor, and love for her family, leaves a void that is hard to fill. Grief affects us emotionally, physically, and mentally. It can cause fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and even physical pain.

Recognizing these effects is the first step toward healing. Leaders, especially, often feel pressure to stay strong and keep moving forward. Yet, acknowledging grief and allowing yourself to feel it fully is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Why Taking Time for Yourself Matters

When grief strikes, the instinct might be to push through it quickly or to focus solely on supporting others. While support is crucial, taking time for yourself is equally important. This time allows you to:

• Process emotions without distraction

• Recharge your mental and physical energy

• Reflect on memories and find personal meaning

• Build resilience to face ongoing challenges

  
  

For example, after the passing of a loved one, setting aside moments for quiet reflection or engaging in activities that bring comfort—like listening to music or attending a place of worship—can provide a much-needed emotional release.

Practical Ways to Practice Self Care During Grieving

Self care during grief is not about grand gestures but small, consistent actions that nurture your well-being. Here are some practical ways to embrace self care:

• Create a routine: Establish daily habits that include rest, nourishment, and gentle movement.

• Seek support: Connect with friends, family, or support groups who understand your experience.

• Allow yourself to rest: Grief can be exhausting. Give yourself permission to sleep or take breaks without guilt.

• Engage in meaningful activities: Whether it’s music, reading, or a hobby, doing something that feeds your spirit helps balance grief’s weight.

• Express your feelings: Journaling, talking with a trusted person, or creative outlets can help process emotions.

  
  

Leaders who manage teams or communities can model these behaviors, showing that self care is a vital part of resilience and effective leadership.

Finding Support While Honoring Your Own Needs

Support networks play a crucial role in grieving. Mrs. Vickie Collier’s life was enriched by her family, church community, and friends who shared her joys and challenges. Similarly, leaning on others can provide comfort and practical help.

However, it is important to balance receiving support with taking time for yourself. Sometimes, grief requires solitude to fully understand and accept the loss. Other times, it calls for connection and shared memories.

Leaders can encourage this balance by fostering environments where people feel safe to express grief and prioritize self care without judgment.

Embracing Healing as a Journey

Healing after loss is a journey without a fixed timeline. It involves honoring the memory of those we have lost while gradually rebuilding our own sense of peace and purpose. Mrs. Vickie Collier’s story reminds us that life is full of energy, love, and resilience—even in the face of hardship.

By embracing self care and allowing ourselves to grieve authentically, we create space for healing. This process strengthens our ability to support others and continue leading with empathy and strength.

Grief changes us, but it also teaches us about the depth of our capacity to love and endure.