4 Tips for Coping with Loss

We are all impacted by loss and grief – whether it be the loss of a loved one through death, the ending of a relationship, the loss of a job, or the loss of an ability/skill. If you’ve read my newsletters, you know that the Lung is a “delicate” organ that is first invaded by exterior pathogens. The lungs are also delicate from a psychological point of view, and are easily injured by loss. Prolonged grief can weaken the lung, making you more susceptible to colds and the flu. You are also more likely to experience skin issues.

There is a lot of great advice about how to deal with loss. Instead of rehashing those tips, I’ve provided links to a few good articles at the end of this blog. I’ll focus on tips from an acupuncturist that may be new to you.

Breathing Exercises

Because grief is associated with the lungs, breathing exercises can be an effective way to  process grief. Exercises 3-5 in this blog help strengthen the lung through the use of visualization, sound and breath.

Foods That Support the Lungs

Pungent white foods are said to be favorable for the lungs. Eating foods that are good for the lungs will help you move through your grief. Some foods to include in your diet include onions, garlic, radish, daikon radish, sauerkraut, scallions, turnip, horseradish, and ginger. Almonds, apples, apricots, pears and pine nuts all help moisten the lung.

Acupressure Points for Grief

I recommend massaging acupuncture points Lung 7 and Lung 9 with an Essential Oil blend that supports loss such as a respiratory blend, soothing blend or comforting blend. To find Lung 7, make a thumbs-up sign. You will see a depression at the base of your thumb, the anatomical snuffbox. From the depression, Lung 7 is two finger widths up your arm. Lung 9 can be found at your wrist crease where your radial artery pulses.

Practices to Strengthen Qi (Energy)

Grief weakens qi (energy); prolonged grief can also result in stagnate or stuck qi. Strengthening your qi and keeping your organs healthy will help you process your grief faster and deal with it more effectively. Yoga, massage, qigong, tai chi and acupuncture are effective practices that can help you release grief, replenish your qi and ensure qi is flowing smoothly. Tell your therapist or instructor that you would like to focus on grief during your session or class.

Other Sources for Tips on Coping With Loss

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/think-well/201308/five-tips-coping-loss

http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/emotionalhealth/Pages/Dealingwithloss.aspx

http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/end-of-life/in-depth/grief/art-20047261

Here is a testimonial from one of our clients who used acupuncture to move forward after a loss.

Northshore Acupuncture Center is willing to provide complimentary group acupuncture treatments and/or share tips for coping with a loss to support groups in the Chicagoland area. Call Northshore Acupuncture Center at 815-814-1319 to learn more about how acupuncture and Essential Oils can support you in dealing with grief and loss or to schedule an event at your support group.