We’ve all faced grief and trauma in some ways since we were little kids with something as simple as losing our favourite toy. Grief comes in many forms. It can be the loss of a loved one, one’s own illness, the loss of a job, a home or the breakup of a long lasting relationship. It is important to know that whenever tragedy hits you, there is a choice in some way. Either you choose to give in to the emptiness that fills your heart or you can try to find meaning. No matter what, grief is unpredictable and there is no guide book on how to be prepared for it or deal with it.

Thankfully, there are little tricks that can help you on days when you’re feeling low and empty. No matter what the reason is, grief comes in waves, some stronger than others, just like the ocean. So whenever it strikes, allow yourself to experience and feel the emotions without fighting them. Take time to figure out what makes you feel better and do it. Here is a list of little things that can help you navigate your way to a new normal.

• Walks in nature: take the time to enjoy the beauty of nature. Stop and lie on the grass, stare up at the sky. Observe your surrondings and bring stillness to your mind and body. Unlike other physical activities, simple walks are natural and don’t involve intentions, which can be hard during grief time.

• Scents: scent can get us so much comfort during grief time. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the nose is the sense organ of the metal element and the metal element is associated to grief. So it makes total sense that scents would have such an impact on grief. Find your comfort smell and while you breathe it in, let all the beautiful emotions fill your heart.

• Plants: taking care of a plant brings stillness and observation, which as a result pulls you out of your own head.

• Familiarity: during grief, we tend to look for familiarity like staying with our close family and friends. In an unpredictable life, familiarity brings comfort and serenity. It is also a time when you need to connect with other people who had experienced loss so that you don’t feel alone.

• Rest: remember to listen to your body and mind even during difficult times. It is ok to press pause and take some time off, whether it is from work, or by simply wanting to be alone. If you make to many plans, you will eventually feel exhausted and this won’t be good for your well-being. You can use that time off to add small rituals that will help you in the long run.

• Therapist: whether you think you need it or not, don’t be afraid to seek professional help.

Remember that grief is one of many emotions that are part of the human experience. No matter how you deal with grief and trauma, learn to go with the flow, observe your feelings with compassion and curiosity.

This article is written in memory of all the victims of the Beirut explosion that happened on August 4th 2020 and our thoughts are with their families and friends. This article is for informational purposes only. This article is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.