Grief and Presence

Overview

Grief is not a problem to be solved. Suppressing it calcifies it.

Definition

Mindful Grieving is staying with the pain without fixing or rushing it.

The Science

Pain Processing

Grief activates the pain centers. 'Cheering up' fights the brain's reorganization process.

The Practice

Waves and Windows

1. Respect the wave (let it hit).
2. Open a window (laugh if you can).
3. Empty Chair technique.

Common Pitfalls

• 'At least...'
• Comparison.

Key Takeaway

We grow around grief.