The Physical Aspects of Grief
December 29th, 2008
Sadly, years have gone by without contact with some people I was once close too. Life sometimes does that - we get busy and our communication with each other decreases.
I was glad though to hear from a friend from “way back.” In catching up, she shared that her husband passed away a couple of years ago.
I was broken hearted for her knowing how very difficult it must have been emotionally. She shared too though, that physically she had struggled during that sad time.
“My blood pressure had gone up even though I seemed to move in slow motion. I also experienced back problems and severe headaches. Plus, I couldn’t get to sleep in spite of the absolute exhaustion.”
Few emotions compare to the difficulty of grief. Many theories surrounding the stages of grief exist. Added to the complexity are other emotions that are tied in such as overwhelming saddness, guilt and shock.
Considering the stress that grief entails, physical responses make sense. Some symptoms can include headaches, major sleeping and eating habits and lack of physical strength.
One might seem to be moving very slowly but inside they are in turmoil. Breathing becomes shallow and anxiety is occurs.
No two people will experience grief in exactly the same way. However, anyone going through such a tough time needs to be conscientious about their health.
Overall, the same tips for physical health apply during this tough time as with any other.
Increase or initiate exercise. Walking can certainly help if you are not already physically active. It can help with keeping unnecessary weight gain at bay and help improve physical strength.
It is still very important to eat properly. Certain foods are easy to turn to in times of stress but try to keep nutrition in mind. The body requires the right fuel more than ever.
Take a break. Shallow breathing lessens the oxygen intake. Practice deep breathing to help with relaxation and counter additional anxiety.
Also tend to your emotional needs. Some people find great comfort in talking it through with others such as in a group situation. Others prefer one on one support either with a professional or with someone else they trust .
Also important to understand is that I am not suggesting you attempt to hurry this process. Those who have been through it as well as researchers all agree that there is no special timetable that each person should be inclined to follow.
I was happy to hear that my friend has accepted the loss even if she will forever miss her spouse. She did stress though that she made changes to address her physical problems.
“I started taking time out to really relax. It was a little uncomfortable at first, but eventually in learning to inhale deeply and exhale slowly my anxiety started to be alleviated. I also started craving better foods and my sleeping habit improved.”
She started walking regularly which resulted in other health improvements. “My blood pressure came back down and I dropped a few pounds.”
I also recommend my all natural programs such as the High Blood Pressure Program, Migraine/Headache Relief Program and the Weight Loss Breeze Program. All are very effective and easy to use.
EL331001
Tags: health, weight loss, lifestyle, exercise, fitness, medical
Tags: headache, Health, high-blood-pressure, migraine, Weight Loss
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