Does Grief Always Take a Long Time to Heal? 5 Essential Steps to Move Forward and 1 Surprising Tip That Works

Grief. It’s the word that lingers in the back of our minds and the ache that sits heavy in our hearts. Whether it’s losing someone you love, a relationship you thought would last, or even a version of yourself you’ve outgrown, grief is as universal as it is deeply personal. But why does it take so long to heal? Why does it feel like you’re stuck in a loop while the world keeps moving?

Here’s the truth: grief isn’t just about loss—it’s about learning to live with it. And while there’s no magic wand to make it disappear, there are ways to move through it with grace, intention, and yes, even hope. Let’s unpack why grief takes its time, the five steps that can help you move forward, and one surprisingly powerful tip that could change everything.

Why Does Grief Take So Long?

Grief doesn’t follow a schedule. It doesn’t care about deadlines or how much you want to “move on.” Here’s why it can feel like it’s dragging on forever:

1. It’s Not Linear: Forget the five stages of grief as a tidy checklist. One day you’re feeling okay, and the next, a song on the radio sends you spiraling. That’s normal.

2. It Changes Who You Are: When you lose someone or something important, your identity shifts. You’re not just grieving the loss—you’re grieving the version of yourself tied to it.

3. Unresolved Emotions Linger: Guilt, anger, regret—these emotions can get tangled up in your grief and take time to unravel.

4. Society Races Ahead: Let’s be honest—our culture isn’t great at giving people space to grieve. The pressure to “move on” can make you feel like you’re failing.

5. It’s Physical: Grief doesn’t just live in your heart; it lives in your body. Fatigue, aches, and even illness are all part of the process.

Grief isn’t a problem to solve; it’s a journey to navigate. And while it’s messy and unpredictable, there are ways to make it a little easier.

5 Steps to Move Through the Grief Cycle

If you’ve been feeling stuck, these five steps can help you find your footing and start moving forward—one small step at a time.

1. Feel Everything (Yes, Everything): Sadness. Anger. Relief. Even joy. Grief is a kaleidoscope of emotions, and the only way out is through. Give yourself permission to feel it all without judgment. Journaling can be a great way to process what’s swirling inside.

2. Find Your People: Grief can be isolating, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether it’s a trusted friend, an energy healer, or a spiritual counsellor, leaning on someone who understands can make all the difference. At Balance You, we offer spiritual counselling emotional healing (hahnemann healing) and mediumship readings to help you feel supported and seen.

3. Care for Your Body Like It’s Your Best Friend: Grief is exhausting, and it’s easy to neglect your physical needs. Prioritize sleep, hydration, and nourishing foods. Gentle movement, like yoga or a walk in nature, can help release the tension grief creates in your body.

4. Create Healing Rituals: Rituals are powerful tools for processing grief. Light a candle for your loved one, write them a letter, or create a memory box filled with mementos. These acts of remembrance can help you honor your loss while finding a sense of peace.

5. Celebrate Small Wins: Healing doesn’t come in big, dramatic moments—it comes in the small, quiet victories. Maybe it’s smiling at a memory instead of crying, or getting through a day without feeling overwhelmed. Celebrate those moments. They matter.

The Surprisingly Helpful Tip: Talk to Them

Here’s something you might not expect: talking to the person you’ve lost can be incredibly healing. Whether it’s out loud, in a journal, or through a medium, expressing your thoughts and feelings as if they’re still here can bring comfort and clarity.

At Balance You, we’ve seen how mediumship helps clients reconnect with their loved ones in a meaningful way. It’s not about “moving on”—it’s about finding a new way to understand that connection.

Grief Is a Journey, Not a Deadline

There’s no timeline for grief, and that’s okay. Healing isn’t about forgetting—it’s about learning to carry your loss in a way that allows you to live fully again.

If you’re ready to take the first step, we’re here to help. At Balance You, we offer compassionate support through spiritual counselling, Hahnemann Healing, and mediumship readings. Whether you’re looking for closure, guidance, or simply a safe space to process your emotions, we’re here for you.

Book your free 15-minute clarity call today and let’s start your healing journey together.