Grief is exhausting.
It’s not just sadness; it’s paperwork, appointments, empty rooms, holding yourself together in front of strangers.
It’s pretending to care about small talk when your entire insides are screaming.

If you feel worn out by everything; that makes sense.
You’re not lazy. You’re not broken.
You are tired because this is hard.
And you are allowed to stop for a while.

You don’t need to be strong today.
You just need to rest.

Journal Prompt

If you want to write, here’s a gentle place to begin

What is my body asking for right now?
Where do I feel the most tired; physically, emotionally, spiritually, socially?
What would rest look like if it didn’t have to be productive or “deserved”?

Gentle Ritual

If writing feels too much, try something with your hands

The Permission to Rest Practice (2–3 minutes)

1. Lie down. Sit back. Unclench something.

2. Put your hand over your chest or belly.

3. Close your eyes and whisper:

“I give myself permission to rest.”
“Even now. Especially now.”

Do this as many times as needed. Even a few seconds of intentional rest is still rest.

Optional: Try This

Or just walk with me for a minute. No pressure, just presence

The Horizontal Reset

Lay down. Anywhere. Couch, floor, grass, bed.
Set a timer for 4 minutes.
Close your eyes. That’s it. You don’t have to meditate or think deep thoughts.

This is still valid rest.
You are still worthy of care, even if you do nothing else today.

Please Remember

Rest is not weakness.
Rest is what makes surviving possible.
You are allowed to stop.
You are allowed to soften.
You don’t have to carry it all right now.