How Meal Prepping Simplifies Your Grief Journey
Hey there, friends! Let's talk about something that I believe many of us have experienced but perhaps haven't chatted about much – the post-loss casserole avalanche. You know what I'm talking about, right? After a loss, our freezers are often overflowing with casseroles from caring friends and family. It's a beautiful gesture, but eventually, the casseroles run out, and we find ourselves staring into an empty freezer, wondering what's next.
Well, today's blog post is all about how meal prepping and planning can be a surprisingly powerful tool in navigating the rough waters of grief. It’s not just about filling our stomachs but also about nurturing our souls and regaining a sense of control in a world turned upside down.
The Rollercoaster of Grief and Eating
In the early stages of grief, eating can feel like the last thing on your mind. Personally, after my daughter passed away, I had days where the thought of food was just... meh. But then, there were days I’d find solace in the familiarity of comfort food – hello, endless casseroles!
Why Meal Prepping Matters in Grief
It may sound counterintuitive to add meal prepping to your to-do list when you're grieving. But here's the thing – good nutrition is crucial during this time. Grief is a beast, and it demands a lot from our bodies and minds. By preparing simple, nutritious meals, we're giving ourselves the fuel needed to face the day.
How to Start Meal Prepping During Tough Times
1. Shop Your Kitchen: Begin by checking out what you already have in your kitchen. It's like a little game of 'Chopped' – creating meals from available ingredients.
2. Simple is Key: No need for fancy recipes. I’m no chef, and my meals are proof that simplicity works.
3. Plan and List: Always shop with a list based on the meals you’ve planned. This saves time, money, and a whole lot of stress.
4. Find Your Cooking Groove: Pick a day or two in the week for meal prepping. Use this time to create a few key dishes that can be easily reheated throughout the week.
Personal Experience: My Meal Prepping Journey
In my recent meal prepping adventure, I made everything from Cinnabun muffin kits to Rice Krispy treats for my son. There was pasta bake, meatloaf, and my personal favorite – overnight oats. Plus, some good old deviled eggs for protein-packed snacking!
While prepping these meals, I often listen to audiobooks or music. It transforms the experience into something therapeutic, almost meditative.
And remember, while grief is a journey we often walk alone, there are ways to make it a bit more bearable. So, go ahead and cook up some comfort. You've got this.
Here is the video version of this blog post:
