Quick and Easy Self-Care Tips for Grief: How to Take Care of Yourself When You’re Grieving

Grief can feel overwhelming. When you’re grieving, even basic tasks can seem impossible. That’s why simple, gentle self-care is essential. It won’t “fix” the pain, but it can help you get through the day, one small step at a time.

If you’re wondering how to take care of yourself while grieving, here are easy, practical self-care tips to support your body, mind, and heart.

1. Drink a Glass of Water

It sounds basic—but grief is dehydrating. Whether you’ve been crying, not eating, or just overwhelmed, your body needs hydration. Keep a water bottle nearby or set a reminder to drink water every few hours.

Tip: Add lemon or cucumber for a refreshing touch.

2. Eat Something Simple

You might not have an appetite. That’s okay. The goal is nourishment, not perfection. Try toast, a smoothie, a granola bar, or a handful of nuts—whatever feels manageable.

Gentle reminder: Eating supports your energy and helps regulate your mood.

3. Step Outside for Five Minutes

Grief often makes us isolate. A short step outside can help reset your nervous system. You don’t need to take a walk—just stand in the sun, feel the air, and notice one thing you see or hear.

Tip: No phone, no goals—just be.

4. Let Yourself Rest Without Guilt

Grief is exhausting. If you’re tired, you’re not lazy—you’re grieving. Lay down, close your eyes, or nap if you can. Even 10 minutes of stillness counts.

Affirmation: “I deserve to rest, even if I didn’t do anything ‘productive’ today.”

5. Do One Small Thing That Brings Comfort

This could be lighting a candle, wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket, listening to a favorite song, or watching a comfort show. Pick something small and soothing.

Remember: Comfort is a form of care, not avoidance.

6. Say No to One Thing

When you’re grieving, your energy is limited. Practice saying no to anything that drains you or feels like too much. Protect your space and honor your needs.

Example: “Thanks for the invite—I’m not up for it right now.”

7. Write Down What You’re Feeling

You don’t have to write a journal entry—just a few words on how you’re feeling. Grief can feel chaotic. Writing it down helps name it and give it shape.

Try this prompt: “Right now, I feel…”

8. Ask for Help (Even a Little)

You don’t have to do this alone. Ask someone to drop off food, send a text, or just sit with you. Letting people support you is a form of self-care.

Idea: “Can you check in on me this week?”

Gentle Final Thoughts

There is no right way to grieve, and no checklist will make it easy. But even in your hardest moments, small acts of self-care can help you feel a little more grounded, a little less alone.

If all you did today was breathe and survive—that’s enough.

Looking for More Support?

If you’re grieving and struggling to take care of yourself, you’re not alone. I offer compassionate grief therapy to help you move through loss at your own pace.

Book a free consultation here.

Here are some questions you might want to ask in a therapy consultation.

Here’s how you can prepare for a consultation.