T-Talk with Shaelene: Avoiding a Meltdown in Aisle Two.
I had the chance to sit down with my dear friend Shaelene from @rebelmente, on her podcast, T-Talk to spill the tea on Grief during the holidays. We are in full holiday swing, which for many means it's time to pretend like everything is okay.
The reality is, for many of us, the holidays are anything but cheerful. This season can be especially difficult if you're grieving the loss of a loved one and having to carry on the traditions that carry reminders that feel like a punch to the gut.
It is possible to get through this difficult time, and in this episode I share tips to help you navigate the holidays without losing your mind (or your temper in the baking aisle).
It's that time of year again! Time to dust off the holiday decorations, put on your best smile, and pretend like everything is okay. The reality is, for many of us, the holidays are anything but cheerful. This season can be especially difficult if you're grieving the loss of a loved one and having to carry on the traditions that carry reminders that feel like a punch to the gut.
This time of year is challenging for anyone who has experienced the loss of a loved one. The holiday season can feel like an endless parade of obligations, gatherings, and reminders of what once was. For many people, coping with grief and loss during the holidays is made even more difficult by the overwhelming sense of sadness and isolation.
Top reasons to listen to the entire episode:
Learn concrete practices to help get you through the holidays when you are struggling with grief (regardless of how much time has passed).
Understand what makes the holidays so difficult after a loss and ways to consider preparing.
Hear ways you can support someone else as they are grieving.
Gain perspective on why grievers may have a hard time allowing themselves to experience positive emotions after experiencing a loss.
In the end, compassion is not making the pain (for ourselves or others) disappear, but it’s softening the blow and reaching through the bubble of isolation to be with (yourself or another) in the suffering.
Take good care of yourself and of each other, as we never know if the person sitting next to us sipping their hot chocolate might also be grieving. Compassion all around.
Share with someone who needs this message!