what is conscious grieving?
a new year and a new way ahead
Nobody should grieve alone.
Period.
Full stop!
And yet, where do we go to find folks that care and share your reality? The truth is, each and every day, we are learning new ways to live with our loss. Some days it looks like we are carrying something heavy and most days it is invisible to others. If you have grieved a loved one — you know that while it morphs and ebbs, it is always present.
Just last night in our support circle, a woman shared that after a few months, friends, family and colleagues have seemingly disappeared, “moved on” and stopped checking in on her all together. She has returned their casserole dishes and sent condolence thank you’s and they think she is back. Better. Done!
Her father has been gone for just nine weeks. She is an only child and has rearranged her life and sense of self in ways she never imagined. This profound loss is one she will learn to carry for the rest of her life.
The beauty of being in a group of those who share losing someone they love, is the virtual wisdom exchange that appears in the tender give and take. Long ago loss and fresh grief meet. As heads nod, there is a knowing that allows you to be in it together. Some share words that have been hard for you to express. Others acknowledge and identify with feelings you thought you were alone in. Folks that come together as strangers, soon craft a shorthand and connection, that is found in the easy sharing and understanding of grieving.
Claire Bidwell Smith, my dear mentor, friend and colleague, defines the way we meet our grief intentionally in her teachings, trainings and book of the same name, Conscious Grieving. She shares…
“Losing someone we love is something that happens to us but how we grieve is up to us. Grieving consciously means acknowledging all the ways your life has changed and leaning into the process of grieving. Acknowledging change and leaning into grief looks like seeking support and making space for your grief. And making space for grief means setting aside time to feel emotions, engage in rituals, and finding ways to honor the person you miss in all the ways this kind of support group will offer. we experience loss, it's normal to feel overwhelmed. But true healing begins when you engage with your grief, open yourself up to it, learn how to integrate it into your life, and eventually let it transform you. You don't have to navigate this alone.”
I am honored to lead two 8-week online Conscious Grieving Support Groups, designed to provide a safe and nurturing space where you can share your experiences, lean into your grief, and receive insights and tools to work with for the long-term future.
Grief Groups begin in January: Groups will be guided through eight supportive and insightful gatherings.
Mother Loss and Spouse/Partner Loss: Each group offers the opportunity to connect with others who understand the pain of these specific losses.
Limited Spots: Each group is capped at 12 participants to ensure personalized attention.
If you have ever wondered if a support group is for you, come and sit with us. These intimate groups allow you the intentional space to show up for yourself and your grief. I hope to see you there in the new year.