Fall 2013                         In This Issue:             

Featured Article:
The Physical Journey of Grief
Important Event Dates
Resources   

   

will be emailed every other month. Each edition will address subjects regarding coping, talking and sharing your grief. It will also include resources and events that you can attend and offer an updated list of books and articles that you can read while traveling your grief journey. It is my hope that you will have a better understanding about your feelings and emotions.

 

   

 

Grief affects you emotionally, spiritually, socially, AND physically. While traveling the journey of grief, it is not uncommon to forget about your physical needs. Emotions most often take center stage, and it is easy to neglect your physical health.

 

It is important to learn to take good care of yourself by:

• Getting a physical examination -- be sure to tell your doctor about your loved one's death
• Knowing your numbers (blood pressure, cholesterol, body weight etc.)
• Eating balanced, nutritional meals 
• Drinking lots of fluids -- five to six glasses of water daily
• Avoiding caffeine -- especially if you are having trouble sleeping
• Limiting alcohol (one a day). Alcohol is a depressant and can interrupt your sleep
• Exercising-walking (it's free and you can do it anytime, anywhere); swimming; running - whatever you were used to doing before the death
• Reaching out to a family member or friend so that you can take an opportunity share your feelings -- communication is good for you
• Practicing relaxation techniques -- learn to breathe in and out slowly 
• Doing something nice for yourself: a long hot shower; a bubble bath; a massage, etc.
• Getting adequate rest. Start preparing to go to bed at least two hours before you want to fall asleep -- avoid phone calls, work or other stresses
• Drinking a small glass of milk with a small amount of starch (cookie, cracker, or slice of bread)
• Keeping a routine helps to minimize stress. Try keeping your wallet, checkbook, car and house keys in same place
• Making a list of "to dos", errands, groceries, and important dates
• Continue hobbies and interests that you did before the death occurred, and start new ones
• Finding things you like doing with your hands -- this often calms the mind and in turn helps the body stay healthy
• Accepting social engagements -- be with friends that you enjoy and avoid those who sap your energy and wear you down emotionally
• Taking time out from your schedule to travel
• Taking a class -- learn something that you always wanted to know, or re-reading your favorite books  
• Buying yourself something special such as art work, theater tickets or jewelry
• Doing small things for other people. You will feel better being able to make a difference in someone's life

 

 

Alan D. Wolfelt,Ph.D, Center for Loss, www.centerforloss.com     

 

Books to read:

Good news for senior adults- have you read the Senior Voice America newspaper.  It's full of information to live an active mature lifestyle. You may find answers to your questions regarding financial planning, elder care, health care and much more to enhance your lives. You can visit the website, www.seniorvoiceamerica.com.

 
Also for everyone who would like to learn more about Health, Wealth & Wisdom tune into talk radio AM 1470 WMGG every week day 4-6 p.m. Each day there are topics addressing everyday living and having a better understanding about your Health, Wealth, & Wisdom.