Responding to another person’s grief can be incredibly difficult, not because we don’t care, but because we simply don’t know what to do. We can’t fix the situation, but we can be a presence that conveys care and comfort to those dealing with grief.
Being Present With Grief
Grief is best served when witnessed by a loving presence. This is the ointment needed to soothe the wounds of a grieving person, according to renowned grief specialist, David Kessler. Just being present with grief means more than we know.
Letting Go of Understanding
Have you ever experienced a traumatic or extremely disappointing event in your life? Maybe you lost a loved one or special friend unexpectantly; or a significant relationship ended and you were devastated. Often times, we seek to understand the purpose of these painful events. We may have many unanswered questions about the hurtful event.
Lamenting a Loss
When loss occurred, the community took the time to surround those who had suffered and allowed them the emotional space to offer a cry of sorrow and grief. Often the community itself offered a cry of sorrow for a loss. This is far from our modern day thinking about grief.
On Grieving: Crying is not Weakness
Grief is a normal part of life. With every loss we experience, however large or small, there is a grieving process that ensues. We may not always be consciously aware that we are grieving or we may not allow it, but grief is there. And if we don’t grieve fully, it will harm us in the long run, popping up in unexpected ways.
Let’s Get Outside!
Playing outside can help stimulate cognitive functioning, foster resilience, release endorphins, and increase an appreciation for nature.
What Stage of Change Are You In?
Have you ever felt like you’re ready to start thinking about change- whether it be a habit, a relationship, or even your hair- but you’re not exactly ready to take the steps to make the change? Don’t be too hard on yourself. This could be due to the fact that you’re simply not in the stage of change that you aspire to be in just yet.
Time for Change
One of the biggest challenges is recognizing when a change would be helpful. Here are a few things that may prompt you to consider a change.
Thoughts and Habits Worth Changing
Changing these nine thought patterns and associated behaviors that interfere with your well-being could improve your mental health.
Changing Your Cognitive Distortions
In our everyday lives, we experience cognitive distortions. A way to alter your distortions is to practice changing your perspective.
