Grief isn’t just an emotional experience—it’s one that can take a toll on your entire being, including your physical appearance. The connection between how we feel and how we look is undeniable, and nowhere is this more evident than in the aftermath of loss. Stress, sleepless nights, and overwhelming sadness can manifest in our skin, hair, and overall health, making it all the more important to address the mind and body in tandem.
To guide us through this complex journey, we’ve asked psychologist Tanya Percy Vasunia to share key tools for coping with grief and its side effects. Whether it’s dealing with breakouts, fatigue, or just feeling out of sorts, these strategies aim to help you navigate the healing process, both inside and out.
Understanding the Impact of Grief on Your Appearance
Grief can trigger a cascade of stress hormones, particularly cortisol, leading to breakouts, dull skin, and even hair loss. The emotional weight of loss often disrupts sleep, diminishes appetite, and reduces the motivation to engage in self-care, further exacerbating these physical symptoms. The result? Dark circles, dry skin, and a general sense of fatigue that reflects the turmoil within. By acknowledging this connection, we can better understand the importance of holistic healing during times of grief.
The Healing Power of Rituals
Rituals play a crucial role in helping us process grief. This is why, in the face of death, funerals and religious rites are so deeply embedded in cultures around the world—they offer direction, closure, and a sacred space for reflection and expression. Similarly, creating personal rituals can be an immensely cathartic way to cope with any kind of loss. Whether it’s writing a farewell letter, setting aside a specific day to reminisce, or creating art in memory of what you’ve lost, these rituals can provide comfort and a sense of control in the midst of emotional chaos.
Connecting Through Stories
Another way to navigate grief is by engaging with literature and films that explore the theme of loss. Books and movies can offer solace by reminding us that we are not alone in our pain—that others have walked this path and found their way through. Some poignant reads include “P.S. I Love You” (the novel), “Man’s Search for Meaning,” “Crying in H Mart,” and “Dead Mom’s Club.” These stories resonate deeply with the grieving heart, offering both empathy and hope. On screen, films like “Good Grief,” “The Whale,” “Marley and Me,” and “The Colour of Rain” capture the multifaceted nature of grief, reflecting our own experiences back to us in ways that can be both comforting and enlightening.
The Passage of Time and the Role of Therapy
While time is often said to heal all wounds, the reality of grief is that it may never fully leave us. Instead, it softens, becoming a part of who we are. Giving yourself time is essential to healing, but so is seeking help when needed. From a mental health perspective, it’s recommended to allow a year to grieve before considering counseling or medication if the grief remains overwhelming. However, speaking to a therapist at any stage of grief can be invaluable, particularly when healthy support systems are lacking. Therapy provides a space to explore and understand your emotions, helping you move toward acceptance and, eventually, gratitude.
Reconnecting with Life
Grief is powerful, not only for the depth of emotions it stirs but also for the exhaustion and uncertainty it leaves in its wake. Many people find that after the initial wave of condolences has passed, they are left alone in their grief, unsure how to move forward. One of the most effective ways to combat this is to consciously reconnect with what is still alive and present. After a funeral, it’s important to gradually return to routine and social interactions, even if only with those you feel most comfortable around. Engaging with life and those who remain can remind you that while there has been a loss, there is still much to be grateful for.
Lavenderoom Note: Journaling as a Path to Healing
At Lavenderoom, we believe in the power of journaling as a therapeutic tool. Writing down your thoughts can help you process emotions and gain clarity. Here’s a tip: Start your journaling practice by dedicating just 5 minutes each day to write about what you’re feeling. Don’t worry about grammar or structure—just let your thoughts flow. Over time, you might find that this simple habit helps you navigate your grief, transforming pain into a sense of peace and, eventually, gratitude.
Ahead, 5 Actionable Steps to Heal Inside and Out
1. Prioritize Self-Care: Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Simple acts like moisturizing your skin, drinking enough water, and ensuring you get enough sleep can help mitigate the physical effects of grief.
2. Engage in Gentle Exercise: Physical activity, even something as gentle as walking or yoga, can boost your mood and improve circulation, helping to restore a healthy glow to your skin and lift your spirits.
3. Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing exercises into your daily routine. These can help reduce stress levels and bring a sense of calm, which benefits both your emotional well-being and your appearance.
4. Connect with Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or a therapist. Talking about your grief can help you process it more effectively, reducing the emotional burden and its impact on your body.
5. Create a Healing Ritual: Establish a personal ritual, like lighting a candle in memory of your loved one or journaling your thoughts each night. Rituals provide structure and a sense of peace, helping you to slowly transition from grief to gratitude.
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