Losing a spouse is challenging, especially during the holiday season. It’s hard to be joyous when your world has been turned upside down.
To better cope with the change, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. With physical activity, eating healthy, and getting adequate sleep, you’ll be able to make better decisions.
There may be endless tasks to tackle while grieving, but make a priority list. And put your health as number one.
Physical activity
Physical activity, even in small amounts, can help reduce stress and improve mood.
Create a daily checklist that includes walking for at least 15 minutes outside. Getting fresh air and feeling the sun has incredible benefits.
Other options include stretching or gentle yoga. If you’re angry, try more physical activities such as kick-boxing or lifting weights.
For added support, consider inviting a friend or family member to join you.
Eating healthy
It’s normal to lose your appetite or crave comfort foods when grieving.
If you’ve lost your appetite, make sure you eat at least one healthy meal, even if it’s vegetable soup.
If you’re craving comfort food, focus on eating fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Also, stay away from the kitchen.
Staying hydrated is equally important.
Adequate sleep
Grief often disrupts sleep. You may not be getting adequate sleep or you may be sleeping too much.
To improve sleep, turn off electronic devices at least one hour before going to bed, including the television. Read a book to help you fall asleep.
If the silence is deafening, find spa music or classical music on your music streaming app for background noise.
Creating a calming bedtime routine will help you fall asleep and stay asleep.
If you’re sleeping too much, create a daily checklist to get you out of bed.
Ask a family member or friend to meet you for morning tea or coffee to help you get up every day.
Grief can disrupt your daily life, making it hard to maintain healthy habits.
Creating a simple routine—such as waking up and going to bed at consistent times, scheduling regular meals, and planning a daily walk—can provide structure and comfort during uncertain times.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Niv Persaud, CFP®, CDFA®, RICP®, is a Managing Director at Transition Planning & Guidance, LLC. Life is more than money. It’s about living the lifestyle you want and can afford. For that reason, Niv consults with clients on money, life, and work. Her approach capitalizes on techniques she learned throughout her career, including as a management consultant, executive recruiter, and financial advisor. Her services include developing comprehensive financial plans, divorce financial reviews, and retirement plans. Niv actively gives back to her community through her volunteer efforts. She believes in living life to the fullest by cherishing friendships, enjoying the beauty of nature and laughing often — even at herself. Her favorite quote is by Erma Bombeck, “When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left and could say ‘I used everything you gave me.’”