Recently, I have had to deal with the loss of a loved one. Part of my grief was impacted by the fact that he chose not to reveal his recent stage four cancer diagnosis. I must respect his choice in not sharing but I was deeply saddened when I learned of the full story. We spoke during the recent holidays, and he never divulged what he was going through. Grief is not only an emotional experience, it is neurological. When we lose someone we love, the brain must reorganize around absence. Familiar routines, expectations, and attachments are suddenly disrupted, activating stress and pain centers in ways similar to physical injury. This is why grief can feel overwhelming, disorienting, and physically exhausting.
Scripture reminds us, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). God’s nearness matters because grief often convinces the brain that safety and stability are gone. The nervous system remains on high alert, searching for what was lost.
According to Harvard Health, grief dysregulates the nervous system, impacting sleep, concentration, memory, and emotional regulation. Neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new neural pathways—plays a critical role in healing during loss.
Creative practices such as coloring, journaling, and drawing gently regulate the nervous system. These activities lower cortisol levels, slow breathing, and provide a stabilizing focal point for the mind. When paired with prayer, scripture reading, and worship, creativity becomes both neurological support and spiritual grounding. I incorporated all of these things as I was going through the grieving process.
Choosing creativity during grief is not avoidance; it is intentional processing. Coloring while meditating on scripture allows emotions to move safely rather than remain trapped. Over time, the brain learns that loss does not equal abandonment. God remains present, even in sorrow.
Grief does not disappear overnight, but through creativity and faith, it becomes held rather than overwhelming. Healing begins when both the brain and the soul are given space to rest.
Citations:
- Psalm 34:18
- Harvard Health Publishing (2022)
- Mayo Clinic (2023)
