Grief in spring: Navigating renewal while honouring your loss

• Grief and loss

The changing season, with its symbols of life and rebirth, can feel both comforting and deeply painful. The return of color to nature, the warmth in the air, and the lengthening days might offer a sense of hope. But, at the same time, they can serve as harsh reminders of the passage of time, moving us further away from a past we cherish and the loved ones we long for and miss.

While nature moves forward in its cycles, grief doesn’t always follow the same rhythm. You may still feel immersed in your own personal winter, even as the world around you awakens. The contrast can bring unexpected emotions—perhaps even guilt. The joy and lightness of Spring might feel in conflict with your sorrow and have you wondering if embracing small moments of happiness means leaving your loved one behind.

But grief and joy are not opposites, as they live together in love and remembering. And that guilt that sometimes arises in grief may eventually change and hopefully soften over time – however long that time may take.

How do we navigate grief in a season that focuses on renewal? If this season is challenging for you, here are some gentle ways to care for yourself while navigating grief in spring.

Tips for navigating grief in spring

Take a walk

Movement, even something as simple as a walk, can help ease the weight of grief. Walking offers both physical and emotional benefits—reducing stress, lifting mood, and offering a sense of connection to the world around you. This isn’t about joy in spring’s beauty, just a chance to move and change the scenery.

Focus on your breath

Mindful breathing is a simple yet powerful tool for grounding yourself in the present. Breathing deeply through the nose releases nitric oxide, a molecule that supports circulation, oxygen delivery, and overall well-being. In moments when grief feels overwhelming, returning to the rhythm of your breath can offer a sense of steadiness and calm.

Make space for grief

When the world is in its blooming season, it can feel like pressure to “focus on the positive” or “embrace gratitude.” But gratitude is not a cure for grief—it is a companion to it. You can honor your sorrow while also holding space for small moments of joy and hope.

Consider gentle spring cleaning

If you feel ready, spring can be a good time to sort through belongings connected to your loved one. This process is deeply personal—there is no rush, and there is no “right” way to do it. If it feels overwhelming, invite a friend or family member to be with you. Keep the items that bring

comfort and pack up what you’re not sure about and store it away for now. Revisiting the items you weren’t sure about at a later time may be a kind and gentle way to manage this task.

Set an intention for the season

This doesn’t have to be a grand resolution. A simple intention—whether it’s allowing more rest, creating space for creativity, or reconnecting with something meaningful—can be a grounding practice as you move through the months ahead.

As you move through this season, remember that renewal doesn’t mean forgetting. The return of warmth and light doesn’t erase your loss, nor does embracing moments of peace or joy betray your grief. You are allowed to feel both.

Wherever this season finds you, may you offer yourself the same kindness and patience that Spring brings to the world. Above all, be gentle with yourself and however Spring unfolds for you, know that you are not alone.

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