Springtime and grief: Embracing renewal in the midst of loss
Spring can feel at odds with grief. As the days grow longer, flowers bloom, and the world hums with renewal, the heaviness of mourning may seem even more isolating. Sadness, anger, loneliness, and overwhelm do not match the bright skies and birdsong. And yet, there is something to be learned from the persistence of spring. Just as winter forces the earth into dormancy, grief often asks us to retreat inward, to sit with our sorrow, to honor the weight of loss. But with time, just as the earth thaws and softens, so too can we.
The arrival of the spring equinox marks a shift in the natural world — a balance of light and dark, a turning point toward renewal. Grief does not follow a neat seasonal timeline, but it does ebb and flow. This season can serve as a reminder that growth does not mean forgetting.
You are allowed to seek comfort where you can, whether in nature’s cycles, spiritual reflections on rebirth, or the presence of loved ones. The sunshine and warmth may invite joy, and that joy does not betray your grief. It is simply another companion to it.
Creating space for grief in spring may feel unnatural when everything around us is urging forward motion. But just as new life emerges from the earth, we too can hold both sorrow and hope.
Take time to acknowledge what has been lost, even as you recognize what remains. Spend time outdoors if it feels right — research shows that time in nature can reduce stress and support emotional well-being. Even a brief moment in the sun or a deep breath of fresh air can serve as a reminder that you are still here, still moving forward in your own way.
As this new season unfolds, consider setting an intention, however small. It might be as simple as making space for your grief when it arises, or allowing yourself moments of peace without guilt.
If you are looking for a way to engage in community during this time, consider joining Singing Our Grief in April — an opportunity to honor loss through song and shared experience. More information can be found on Instagram shortly!
Wherever you find yourself this spring, know that you do not have to rush to bloom. The thaw is gradual, and so is healing. Let this season be a gentle reminder that renewal does not erase what came before — it builds upon it.
