Breathing Through Grief: A Simple Guide to Finding Calm Amidst Life’s Storms
Sarah Jons 
Explore how simple breathing techniques can be your anchor in navigating the emotional waves of grief and finding peace in life's challenges.
Managing Emotions Through Breathing
Recently, waves of sadness and grief have been my constant companions.
My dear mother, now 92, is navigating the twilight of her life with the challenges that old age brings — memory decline, confusion, and daily distress. It's not the thought of death that frightens her but the prospect of continuing to live in this state of anxiety, which has never been higher.
Each month, I undertake a 500-mile round trip to be with her, offering whatever comfort and assistance I can. Living with my brother, she’s in familiar company, yet each goodbye leaves me wondering if it's our last. As I leave, the weight of sadness becomes a physical presence, felt in every part of me.
On my way back from my last trip, sitting in my car, I found myself suddenly engulfed by tears. Right then, a persistent call from my husband felt like a beacon in the fog. Struggling to speak, his gentle reminder broke through: "Just breathe." I noticed my breath was uneven, almost chaotic. But as I focused on breathing slowly, my emotions started to settle, making it possible for me to begin the long journey home.
Why Breathing Matters
In somatic therapy, we explore the profound connection between mind and body, recognising how our physical state can influence our emotional well-being. Breathing, especially, is a powerful tool for self-regulation. It's about creating a safe space within ourselves, signalling to our nervous system that it's okay to relax, to move from alertness to peace.
How to Calm Yourself Anywhere, Anytime
The beauty of focusing on your breath is its simplicity and accessibility. Deep, slow breaths can activate the part of our nervous system responsible for rest, significantly lowering stress levels. In moments of anxiety or distress, something as straightforward as taking a few deep breaths can recenter our thoughts and soothe our emotions.
A Simple Strategy: The Longer Exhale
Here's a technique everyone can try: notice your breath and extend your exhale. That’s the essence of it. Breathe in, then let your exhale be longer than your inhale. You might count if it helps, but the focus is on a prolonged exhale. This simple act can slow down your heart rate, bringing a sense of calm to the entire body.
When we inhale, our heart rate increases slightly; when we exhale, it slows. It's a cycle as natural as life itself, yet so profoundly effective in moments of emotional overwhelm.
Just Breathe
In times of grief or stress, words can seem inadequate. Sometimes, all we need is to breathe. No complex explanations, no fancy techniques. Just a moment of awareness, a deep breath in, and a longer breath out. It's a small step, but it's a start—a step towards healing, towards feeling a little more grounded amid life's uncertainties.
For anyone walking through seasons of grief, uncertainty, or stress, remember the power of your breath. It's a tool that’s always with you, offering a moment of peace whenever you need it most.
About Sarah SMBRCP DipCHyp NLPMP HPD PgDip CHBP CHFP CertTBr
Sarah is a skilled fertility coach who uses modern methods and proven techniques, like breathwork, hypnosis, and NLP, to improve fertility health for all ages, from puberty to perimenopause and beyond. She focuses on improving emotional and mental well-being, helping her clients find balance and clarity on their fertility journey. Gain helpful insights in just one session. Need support? Visit www.thefertilitytherapist.com.
Categories: Breathwork, Fertility Coaching