Lisa McFarland’s Post

Struggling to feel thankful this Thanksgiving? Grief can make the holidays especially tough. Here are 5 ways to navigate grief during Thanksgiving and take care of your emotional well-being. 🌿💛 #GriefSupport #ThanksgivingAndGrief #SelfCompassion https://lnkd.in/ef9XZYSe

Thanksgiving can be one of the most challenging times of the year for those who are grieving. As we gather with loved ones, the absence of someone special can feel especially heavy, making it hard to fully engage in the festivities. If you’re finding this season difficult, here are a few coping tips that may help: Acknowledge Your Feelings: Allow yourself to feel whatever comes up—sadness, joy, or even confusion. It’s okay to express your emotions. Create a New Tradition: Consider honoring your loved one by incorporating a new tradition, such as lighting a candle or sharing a memory during the meal. Set Boundaries: It’s okay to step away from conversations or activities if they become overwhelming. Take breaks as needed. Reach Out: Connect with friends or family who understand your grief. Sharing your feelings can provide comfort and support. Practice Self-Care: Make time for yourself. Whether it’s taking a walk, journaling, or indulging in a favorite hobby, prioritize activities that bring you peace. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. It’s okay to experience joy and sorrow side by side.

Struggling to feel thankful this Thanksgiving? Grief can make the holidays especially tough. Here are 5 ways to navigate grief during Thanksgiving and take care of your emotional well-being. 🌿💛 #GriefSupport #ThanksgivingAndGrief #SelfCompassion https://lnkd.in/egyQW7Us

Grief and Gratitude at Thanksgiving Thanksgiving is often described as a time to count our blessings, but what happens when our hearts are carrying the weight of loss? Grief has a way of blending into every aspect of the holidays. The memories of past celebrations, the traditions that feel incomplete, the people we long for—it all comes to the surface. And yet, even amidst that pain, there can be space for gratitude. For those navigating grief this Thanksgiving: - It’s okay to feel overwhelmed - It’s okay to take care of yourself in the way you need. - It’s okay to share your story—you never know who might feel less alone because of it. May we all hold space for both grief and gratitude this season. May you feel gratitude that those who are no longer with you graced your life with their presence. #thanksgiving #gratitude #grief

For those that are grieving or supporting those that are grieving: Thanksgiving can be a bittersweet time, especially when you’re navigating the complexities of grief. It’s a moment filled with tradition, warmth, and connection—but it can also be a reminder of those who are no longer with us. At times like these, it's important to honor both your feelings and the spirit of the season. Here are some gentle ways to embrace Thanksgiving while grieving. Create a Memory Space Set up a small area at your gathering where family and friends can share memories of your loved one. This could include photos, letters, or favorite mementos. Allowing this space can bring comfort and spark meaningful conversations. Acknowledge Your Emotions It’s perfectly okay to feel a mix of emotions during the holiday. Allow yourself to express grief alongside gratitude. Sharing your feelings with loved ones can foster a sense of connection and support. Incorporate Traditions Continue any traditions that remind you of your loved one. Whether it’s preparing a favorite dish or lighting a candle in their memory, these acts can honor their presence in a meaningful way. Practice Gratitude While grieving, focus on what you are grateful for in the present. This might include cherished memories, supportive friends, or small moments of joy. Sharing these reflections can inspire others to join you in celebrating the beauty still present in life. Take Breaks If the gathering feels overwhelming, don’t hesitate to step away for a moment. A short walk or a quiet space can help you recharge and return to the celebration with a renewed spirit. Reach Out for Support If you’re struggling, consider reaching out to friends, family, or support groups. Talking about your feelings can provide relief and remind you that you’re not alone in your journey. End the Day with Reflection As the day winds down, take a moment to reflect on the experiences, emotions, and connections of the day. Journaling your thoughts can be a powerful way to process your feelings and honor your loved one. Thanksgiving is a time for togetherness, even amidst sorrow. Embrace the opportunity to connect, reflect, and create new memories while honoring those you’ve lost. You are not alone in your grief, and there is strength in sharing your journey. Together, let’s inspire one another to find hope and healing this season. Wishing you a compassionate and meaningful Thanksgiving. #grief #griefandloss #nurseleaders #therapists #griefeducation

The holidays can be a bittersweet mix of love, joy, and grief. Whether it’s the memory of loved ones we’ve lost or the ache for life as it once was, this season can feel heavy. In my latest blog, “A Season of Love and Loss: Navigating Grief During the Holidays,” I share personal reflections and practical tips to help you honor your emotions while embracing joy and new traditions. Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃 📖 Read more here:

🍁 A Thanksgiving Message of Gratitude and Support 🍁 "Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the blessings in our lives, but for some, it’s also a time when grief and loss feel especially heavy. 💔 Today, let’s hold space for those who are missing loved ones, navigating challenges, or feeling the weight of loneliness. If that’s you, know this: your feelings are valid, and you are not alone. May you find moments of peace and comfort in the love of others and in the quiet blessings that surround you. For those of us who can, let’s extend a hand of kindness. A simple call, a warm hug, or a thoughtful gesture can be a lifeline for someone struggling during the holidays. Gratitude and compassion go hand in hand. As we give thanks, let’s also give love. Together, we can make this season a little brighter for everyone. 🧡 What are you thankful for this year? Let’s fill the comments with gratitude and encouragement. 🙏 #Thanksgiving #Gratitude #SupportEachOther #KindnessMatters

4 Gentle Thanksgiving Reminders for Grievers This Thanksgiving, as you navigate the holiday while carrying your grief, remember these truths to allow yourself space to breathe: 1️⃣ You Don’t Have to Pretend: It’s okay to not feel “festive.” Grief doesn’t take a holiday, and your feelings are valid. Be authentic about where you are emotionally. 2️⃣ Set Boundaries with Love: Protect your peace. It’s okay to say no to gatherings, conversations, or traditions that feel overwhelming. You’re allowed to prioritize your well-being. 3️⃣ Honor Your Loved One: Create a simple tradition to remember them—a prayer, a favorite dish, or a quiet moment of gratitude for the time you shared. 4️⃣ Give Yourself Permission to Breathe: Grief can feel heavy, but take intentional moments to pause, breathe deeply, and let go of expectations. Release the dam of tears if they come; they’re a part of your healing. This Thanksgiving, embrace grace for yourself as you grieve. Let’s walk this journey together, one breath at a time. #GriefSupport #PermissionToBreathe #ThanksgivingWhileGrieving #HealingThroughTheHolidays

Our grief and loss support team has suggested several online resources related to understanding and coping with grief and loss. We hope the article below from What's Your Grief brings warmth and comfort to those for whom Thanksgiving can be difficult or lonely: https://lnkd.in/gmkrjQtq Find more recommended resources here: https://lnkd.in/gaf_2VCt #griefjourney #griefawareness #griefandloss #hospicecare #griefsupport 

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, but for many who’ve lost a loved one, it’s also a time when the empty seat at the table feels heavy. It’s natural to miss them deeply, but it’s also possible to blend their memory with moments of gratitude. Here are 3 meaningful ways to honor their memory this Thanksgiving: 1️⃣ Create a Tribute: Take a moment to share a memory, light a candle, or include their favorite dish in your celebration. These small gestures keep their spirit alive. 2️⃣ Practice Self-Compassion: Let yourself feel your emotions fully, whether it’s sadness, joy, or both. Grief doesn’t take a holiday, and that’s okay. 3️⃣ Focus on Connection: Surround yourself with supportive people. Talking about your loved one and sharing memories can bring healing and comfort. Grief and gratitude can coexist. This Thanksgiving, take intentional steps to honor their life and find moments of peace and connection. 💡 For more guidance on navigating grief during the holidays, click the link in my profile to connect with me. Together, we can find hope and healing. #GriefSupport #HealingAfterLoss #GriefDuringHolidays #ThanksgivingGratitude #EmotionalHealing #GriefAndJoy #LinkedInCommunity