Embracing Slow Living: A Journey Through Grief and Beyond
Does life ever feel like a never-ending run on a treadmill, leaving you exhausted and seemingly stuck in the same spot? I've been there, and I get it. That's why I'm here to share my journey, one that's deeply personal and transformative, in the hopes that it might resonate with you too.
A New Year, A New Focus
It's a brand new year, and I'm veering a bit from my usual content. This month, I'm diving into the concepts of simplifying and slow living. These aren't just buzzwords; they've been my lifeline in navigating the murky waters of grief after losing my 10-year-old daughter Libby, my parents, and my stepmom in just a year and a half.
Slow Living: More Than a Trend
Slow living isn't about racing snails or retreating to a farm to raise chickens and bake sourdough bread (though if that's your thing, go for it!). It's about finding your own rhythm, aligning life with your values, and savoring the small joys, even amidst grief. It's giving yourself space to breathe and grieve.
My Personal Shift: From Chaos to Clarity
Before my daughter's passing, I was the typical busy mom, juggling a full-time job, kids, and endless chores. But my world turned upside down with Libby's death, followed by a divorce, leaving me an almost instant single empty nester. This seismic shift led me to embrace minimalism, eventually moving into a tiny house, and reevaluating what truly mattered.
My journey into minimalism began with decluttering, inspired by YouTube channels like The Minimal Mom. This process was not just about getting rid of physical stuff; it was a mental and emotional cleanse, paving the way for a simpler, more intentional lifestyle.
Gratitude and Small Joys
Starting with a simple gratitude journal, I began to appreciate the little things: a sunrise during my drive to work, the first cup of coffee in the morning, or just enjoying a quiet moment at home. These small acts of mindfulness were stepping stones to a more grounded and contented life.
Science Backs It Up
The beauty of slow living and simplification isn't just anecdotal; studies show these practices can significantly benefit mental health, particularly when dealing with grief and depression. They offer our minds the space and time to process and heal.
So this month, and continuing throughout the year, I'm excited to delve deeper into various aspects of slow living. We'll explore topics like decluttering, cooking from scratch, embracing nature, digital detox, and finding joy in simplicity. And, of course, I'll share how these changes have been instrumental in my grief journey.
If you're on this grief roller coaster, consider giving slow living a try. It's okay to seek joy and find peace in the simple things. Remember, moving forward doesn't mean forgetting; it's about honoring our lost ones in our journey toward healing.
Here’s the video version of this post:
