Nature and God

Through my almost seven year journey, I have tried many things to help in my healing. For this post, I decided to write about nature and God.

Try going to a place that has a water source, like: the ocean, a river, creek or a pond. Taking a journal with you will help put your thoughts together. Especially early on, you’re still trying to wrap your head that your loved one is no longer here. Your thoughts and emotions are every where and nowhere at the same time. Even if what you are writing doesn’t make sense right now, it will definitely help.

As many of you, I’ve had to try many different things to keep moving forward or just to survive. Hiking was one thing that I chose. A really good friend of mine asked me to join her and I loved it! With friends or going alone, it brings me peace.

When I’m alone on a hike, it helps me to decompress and just be. It’s a good time to self reflect, journal, pray and talk to Justin. I talk to Justin in hopes he hears me from heaven.

I have leaned on God and my faith heavily after losing Justin. To me, nature is a reminder to me that God is with me always. People may believe in different ways but this is how I make it through. No matter how you believe, it’s a proven fact that exercise and fresh air makes you feel better.

There is something about nature that is pure and healing. We all live stressful lives but losing my child… nothing compares. I have to tell you I was a mess and still have my moments of grief and depression. Closing my eyes and breathing, it helps to lift some of the sadness.

If you don’t like hiking, think about what you like to do. I also suggest doing something that your loved one cherished. We live by a bike path and Justin and I would walk or run (truth be told, I did more walking). Since we have a non-profit organization called Be A Hero, we have shirts with Justin or our Be A Hero 5k logo on them. I like to wear these to something that Justin enjoyed and I do it in honor of him.

Did your loved one love to cycle? Zip lining? Do something healthy for you and honor them at the same time. If this post helps, please let me know. If you know someone who is struggling, asking them to try, at least, a short walk or just sit outside with you.