Memories of holiday traditions once shared with a loved one who has died can be painful, but there are ways to look after ourselves and loved ones who may be grieving.

Stephannie Rosencrans, adult bereavement coordinator at Langley Hospice Society, has some tips to help people through the season.

含羞草研究社淲ithout a doubt, the holidays can be especially challenging for individuals and families who are grieving the recent death of a loved one,含羞草研究社� she noted.

含羞草研究社淎s we move into the holiday season, we often hear 含羞草研究社榳hat should I do about Christmas?含羞草研究社� The answer is whatever feels right to you.含羞草研究社�

Rosencrans suggested checking in with yourself and how you含羞草研究社檙e feeling, and acknowledge what you may or may not be able to handle this year.

Communication will be the key, she noted, and said it含羞草研究社檚 important to let others know what you need.

含羞草研究社淢aybe that means saying no to the neighbourhood get-together or asking someone else in your family to host Christmas dinner. it could be that you choose to incorporate a new tradition to honour your loved one, or skip an annual outing to stay safe and comfortable at home,含羞草研究社� Rosencrans explained.

She adds that keeping communication open and adjusting your own expectations can help how you navigate the holiday season.

Another suggestion is to make time for self-care, whether that含羞草研究社檚 a massage, a jog, five minutes of silence to drink a cup of tea, or a soak in the tub.

含羞草研究社淎t the heart of self-care is restoration, and if we want to give to others we need a full cup to pour from,含羞草研究社� Rosencrans said.

含羞草研究社淏e gentle with yourself. Give yourself time to rest. Set realistic goals and allow yourself to cancel plans if you need to.含羞草研究社�

She also suggested turning to others for support.

含羞草研究社淒on含羞草研究社檛 be afraid to let others know how they can help. Utilize those who have been supportive.含羞草研究社�

Lastly, Rosencrans said over time special occasions can help us begin to heal.

含羞草研究社淭ry to stay present in the moment, and accept the warmth that is yours to receive.含羞草研究社�

People can access bereavement support through their local hospice society, which can be found online at .

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