Note. 4

GRIEF

There are many things I can say about dealing with grief. It is a never ending journey that undulates and changes on the daily, one thing is for certain though - it never leaves you and so we must keep moving forward and find the new normal.

I wanted to leave a note here in “Field Notes” about the subject because I dont’ think we talk about it enough to feel okay about how we grieve and also because I know many of my clients (those requesting memorial portraits) are experiencing it. A human condition that deserves more light.

Here are some tips and things I have learned during my fairly fresh journey.

• Feel all your feelings, they are valid

• CRY - seriously: do it loudly, messily and often

• distractions are good after an episode of immense sadness

• All thoughts and emotions are NORMAL when grieving

• Tell your supports what they can do for you - they want to help but it's best if you let them know: I need a distraction, or I need to be sad, can we talk about loss?

• Always reframe your thoughts to happy memories after a good cry or when you feel like you are spiralling - happy memories are still there - they are yours, no one can take them from you.

xo - Renée

   In memory of my favourite girl in the whole world - Remy. xo