Being able to prioritise self-care can be extremely hard as grieving can be exhausting. It’s important to focus on getting enough rest, eating well, and staying hydrated.
When dealing with bereavement, listening or reading can provide a distraction. Remember that everyone copes differently, so finding what resonates with you personally is essential.
Whether it’s a book written by a bereaved parent, a podcast which shares stories of how other people have coped with their grief, or even engaging in creative activities, focusing on positive aspects can offer solace during these difficult times.
Self-care is the practice of nurturing one’s own well-being, encompassing activities that recharge the mind, body, and spirit. It’s about cultivating a lifestyle that fosters balance and resilience.
This can include simple acts like taking a soothing bath, going for a walk in nature, or indulging in a favourite hobby. It also involves setting boundaries, saying no when necessary, and prioritising rest. Through self-care, individuals can replenish their energy, manage stress, and enhance overall health. It’s a powerful act of self-love that allows for personal growth, improved relationships, and a greater sense of inner peace.
Listening to podcasts can be a helpful way to cope with grief, you can explore new perspectives, learn coping strategies plus they also offer various benefits:
Feeling Less Alone: Hearing stories from others who have also experience the same loss can make you feel less isolated.
Humour and Distraction: Some podcasts use humour to address grief, providing a distraction during difficult times.
Education: You can learn about grief through research, statistics, and personal experiences shared on podcasts.
Unique Perspectives: Podcasts offer diverse perspectives on loss, helping you see it from different angles.
The following podcasts and books have been recommended by a variety of professionals working in bereavement support, mental health, and wellbeing.
PODCASTS
Fearne Cotton talks to incredible people about life, love, loss, and everything in-between as she reveals what happiness means to them.
Out of the Darkness – Matt Piper
Out of the Darkness is the gritty and hard-hitting autobiography of former Leicester City and Sunderland winger Matt Piper.
His podcast now tells the rollercoaster story of life from different perspectives with the help of Matt’s brother and friend, Dan & James.
In episode 11, our co-founder Nick Hodges shares his story and delves into the history of the foundation since it was founded in 2013. Listen here
The Pierce Perspective is a beacon of support and insight, featuring ‘Mental Health Matters’ where experts discuss vital resources and strategies, ‘The Green Room’ that explores the therapeutic world of gardening, and ‘Positivity Corner’ which uplifts listeners with stories and tips for a brighter, more positive life.
A weekly interview podcast where media personalities share stories about loved ones they’ve lost. In each episode, Lloyd makes space for natural, unhurried conversations for her guests to talk about death where, in her words, “nobody’s going to change the subject.”
Cruse Bereavement Support also have recommendations for grief and loss podcasts, which you can find below.
books
Kind Words for Unkind Days – Jane Hardy
A practical pick-me-up for life’s tough days, this book is the perfect guide to help you feel happier, healthier and calmer.
We all have days where we feel like the world is getting us down. But here’s the thing – you’re not alone. From helping us see what strong really looks like, to what to do when you have no energy for self-care; Jayne Hardy shows us that even on our most difficult days, a little kindness can go a very long way.
Whether it is pressure at work, families to look after or even just friends to catch up with, rest is almost always an afterthought. We’ve been led to believe that giving ourselves time to recuperate, both physically and mentally, is an indulgence – but Radical Rest is here to explain exactly how and why the more rest we have, the more we can get done.
Remember, your health and wellbeing is a priority, so don’t feel guilty for taking time to look after yourself.
If you need someone to talk to, reach out to friends and family and if you feel you need further support speak to your GP.
If you are a bereaved parent and are not being supported by the Bodie Hodges Foundation, you can make a referral by completing the form below.
