As we all know Jan/Feb can be depressing months and isolating too as we hunker down indoors, just from my own experience, which I like to share if it helps anyone, at whatever stage of grieving you are in, walking is very therapeutic for the mind and body, clears the mind from racing thoughts and just being out in the fresh air and nature is very calming and keeps circulation going. Even if you just do a little walk each day. Gets you a dose of Vitamin D, crucial in winter months and a smile and hello to anyone you may pass helps you to feel connected. I know lots of you will think “we all know that” but those who are not walkers or feel out of their comfort zone walking alone, or lack motivation may not give it a thought. Walking clubs are great for meeting people and passing the time in a positive way.
Yoga and Pilates are excellent for anxiety/stress and easily done at home, plenty of online classes.
However you get through just hang on in there as spring is just around the corner……
I have zero motivation to do anything, even make food. It’s been 11 weeks for me and am going back to work on Weds and full of worry about it. I’m breaking down constantly
I also find walking therapeutic, I have a dog who I walk every day. People are very friendly where I live it really helps as you say being out in the fresh air . I also go swimming which I find therapeutic as well .
I walk every day and have for years. I walk when it’s cold, rainy, hot, etc., even if just down to the end of the block. Somedays longer depending on what is pressing around the house. I think some form of exercise is essential every day for most people.
No dog, but I know other people’s dogs. That’s how I met a few people. The men walk their dogs. I met their spouses after I met their dogs. Most friendly where I live. Some chit chat. I made a nice friend w/ one neighbor. He sent me food for the holidays. He’s young, in his 30’s, but we hit it off. I cat sat their cat one weekend.
Sometimes I go for a stroll. But it it is freezing I end up with my feet like blocks of ice even with thick socks and boots. Blood pressure tablets side effects. I like to pick foliage to make flower arrangements. Occasionally see someone for a chat. I ought to make an effort more than I do. do yoga online. When I get the chance I like to swim a bit.What helps me is painting. I have to get organised.I do an online art and creative writing .class . I enjoy zoom.
There is some elderberry brush’s near where I live . Some people forage it and make elderberry cordial . The painting sounds interesting I am not artistic though.
I agree 100% with the walking as therapy ,my late wife and I used to walk our beautiful black labrador Lilly every day until March 2024 when Lilly developed really bad arthritis in her rear legs,soon after my wife was taken seriously ill,In May we lost Lilly and in August 2024 I lost my wife,for 5 months I literally stayed home in shock and disbelief until counselling therapy and my GP said I was heading for a breakdown and needed a change of environment, as hard as it was,I did it,luckily, I have a beautiful coastline 15mins from home,shortly after I started my late wife’s best and closest friend suggested,I take her Golden Retriever Lotti with me for company, we are now best friends and a great source of motivation for me to get out walking, it works and saved me Im sure from a complete breakdown.
I also stayed at home in shock and disbelief after my husband died . It was my dog that got me out of the house as he needed his walk . So I can relate to you post very well
It’s 11 weeks for me too and I’m exactly the same no motivation for anything. Itsawful feeling like this and it would have been my husbands birthday tomorrow
Walking is very good therapy. It has helped me, too. Initially, after I lost my spouse, I walked twice/day, maybe 20 min. in the am and a short 10 min. walk in the early afternoon. It spent some of my anxiety and helped my body relax (and mind). I think it helps regulate our brain hormones. Eating healthy, too. I avoid sugar, processed foods, etc.
I have found leaving My mobile at home beneficial.
For example if I stop for a coffee, I notice so much more engaged and aware of my surroundings and living “In the moment” which is so good for anxiety relief.
I wish I could borrow a dog to walk like I did many years ago but no one is up for sharing their dog where I live. I guess I should be more proactive like I used to be. These days I think of the responsibility a lot more and people are more careful. I recall a long time ago I cared for someone’s cat while they were away and there was a mishap. That put me off. I am watching a squirrel out of the window looking at my window. Lots little robins and birds . I enjoy feeding them.
I also feed the birds , it’s so nice to watch them . People are more careful with There dogs now. If you didn’t want the responsibility of owning a dog . Maybe you could foster one .
I also had the bonus of meeting my new partner out on a solo walk, not my intention but it happened and pleased it did so yes you meet lots of people out walking. It’s so nice to read the replies and that so many find the benefits, not so great in this weather though ….my partner had to scoop me up when I slipped on some ice the other day lol
Most friendly where I live. Some chit chat. I made a nice friend w/ one neighbor. He sent me food for the holidays. He’s young, in his 30’s, but we hit it off. I cat sat their cat one weekend.