Working in the funeral industry is a unique calling, requiring immense compassion and professionalism.   

Yet, it also presents challenges which can take its toll resulting in emotional fatigue, stress and burnout.  Left unaddressed, this strain can lead to difficulties in maintaining personal well-being and both in our professional and personal lives. 

Let me ask you a question. Do you feel that self-care practices such as mindfulness are a time luxury you simply can’t afford in your daily schedule? 

Here’s the truth: mindfulness doesn’t demand hours of your day. It asks for moments.  

The question isn’t whether you have time to be mindful, but whether you can afford not to be. Even in the busiest moments, a mindful pause can restore clarity, reduce stress, and make life feel just a little bit lighter. 

Another question.  How many times during the day do you take a deep breath?  Now ask yourself why and how do you take that breath? 

Taking a deep breath is not mindful if it’s done out of habit or reflex, without awareness. For example, if you sigh deeply out of frustration, but don’t notice the breath or how it feels in your body, it is an automatic action rather than a mindful one. 

Taking a deep breath is mindful when you do it with intention and awareness.  

If you take a slow, deep breath in through your nose, noticing how your belly and chest expand as you draw the air in. Then breathe out slowly and completely, releasing any tension as you do so, you are engaging in a mindful practice.  Repeating deep slow breaths like this, just four or five times can leave you feeling calmer, less tense and more focused. 

A challenge… 

Over the next couple of weeks, take note of your stress triggers, perhaps meeting a grieving family or simply a long day.  If you feel stressed, consciously take four to five deep breaths, see if you notice a change? For further information and tips from Reverend Veronica Allen click here.