Last night I hosted a Renew the Grieving heART creative workshop with one of my bereavement volunteers at HopeWest. She and I both have used creativity to help in our grief due to our spouses' passing. We had 5 participants and engaged in some reflective writing, and from that reflective writing we decorated and filled cups with self-care ideas, or things we hope for in the future. As we take care of others, and as many of us walk in the path of loss in one way or another, it is important we fill our cups with things we find nourishing. One of the participants used the concept of "Daily Graces." What daily graces do you need everyday to nourish your mind, body and soul?
Using creative means to walk the path of grief and loss is a way to open ourselves up to new parts of ourselves and to new experiences. It challenges us to see beauty in every day, even when facing the day feeling broken can be difficult. It allows us something to look forward to, and allows us to feel gratitude for the good in our lives. It can also give us increased self-esteem and can provide an outlet for emotions.
I had found this poem and thought it was a perfect one to share with the group as we began. Take some time and let the message of the poem sink into your soul.
