Back to School Without a Student

Mindfulness Monday

September has always felt like a new beginning to me – the changing of the leaves, turning over my garden, putting the air conditioner away. Even when I was no longer in school myself, and didn’t have a child, this time of year signaled what the New Year often signals for others.

After pregnancy losses, this time of year also reminded me of everything I didn’t have. I can tell you every grade my hopeful child would be entering. I couldn’t fill up pencil boxes, or complete a summer reading list. I couldn’t lay out clothes for the first day of school. Or experience the excitement of meeting a new teacher and classmates.

Initially, I was surprised by the emotions I experienced. I didn’t feel prepared; and yet, this time of year can be a challenging time of year after a pregnancy loss.

With this in mind, take some space today, or this week, to check-in with how you are feeling and what you need.

·      What does September mean to me?

·      How distressed am I feeling today (on a scale of 1-10)?

·      What do I need to support myself today? (Examples: stay off social media for a few days as people share back to school photos; take a walk outside; take a day off work if I can; join a support group; speak to a therapist; read a book.)

Your feelings are valid right now. Give yourself permission to do what you need to do.

If you need extra support right now, don’t hesitate to message me! If you wish to receive an audio recording of Mindfulness Mondays, paid subscribers receive them. I am offering some free paid subscriptions, and reduced rate subscriptions. No questions asked!