Dealing with Grief

Grief. A challenging yet expected part of our existence as sentient beings. Grieving is not just a human construct. The animal world is full of examples where displays of grief or mourning is common place. What do we all have in common? Perhaps it is the feeling of loss as we realize our loved one is no longer with us. Or the sense of responsibility we may have felt placed upon ourselves. Or is it the banding together of humans, elephants or chimps in groups to care and support one another. To bring solace to those of our tribe feeling alone.

It takes strength and a whole lot of bravery to grieve. To be with those feelings and give them their space. Honouring and carrying that pain takes a toll on the strongest of people without the support of both themselves and others. Grief and the grieving process itself truly brings us face to face with many of the vulnerabilities that may make us uncomfortable. Trying to express ourselves Those truly human vulnerabilities that make us nervous or hide away from expressing ourselves and allowing people to see our other side.

Breath with your grief. With each breath in, feel the pain, the tightness, the sadness. Don't discount what you are feeling. Let yourself experience and embrace each emotion with kindness and non judgment. Learning to let you love you.

With time, your grief will eventually transform itself. Perhaps it doesn't completely disappear but take on a different form of energy. With time the heart heals and slowly opens back up again. Until then, we give it time.

#mindfulness #mindful #sati #griefandmindfulness #grief