Grief Work Influences
Grief, a complex and often misunderstood emotion, is a universal human experience. It's a response to loss, and it can manifest in countless ways, from the obvious to the subtle. Yet, in our fast-paced, often superficial world, grief is frequently overlooked, silenced, or even stigmatized.
I’ve been diving deep into “grief work” and finding myself deeply connected to the people, ideas,and processes of being with the many ways grief is not allowed to show up and how we can build, create, and try on sustainable practices for welcoming the grief in!
My exploration into grief has been a profound journey. I’ve discovered a rich tapestry of wisdom and practices designed to help us navigate this challenging terrain. In sharing these resources, I hope to inspire others to embrace grief as a natural part of life and to cultivate spaces where it can be acknowledged, honored, and integrated.
The following books, podcasts, and resources have been instrumental in my own grief journey. They offer diverse perspectives, practical tools, and deep insights.
Books
Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer: Explores the interconnectedness of humans and nature, offering a profound perspective on loss and renewal from an indigenous woman.
My Grandmother’s Hands by Resmaa Menekem: Delves into the impact of racial trauma on the body, providing tools and specifically somatic invitations for healing and liberation for everyone (white, Brown, and Black bodies).
The Wild Edge of Sorrow by Francis Weller: Offers a (white/cis male) therapists approach to grief (20+ years of greif work), emphasizing the importance of ritual and connection to eachother and the natural world.
The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Emily and Amelia Nagoski: Provides practical strategies for managing stress and emotional overwhelm.
Emergent Strategy by adrienne marie brown: Explores collective imagination and transformative change, offering hope and inspiration for healing.
Love and Rage and The New Saints by Lama Rod Owens: Examine the intersections of spirituality, social justice, and personal healing.
What it Takes to Heal by Prentis Hemphill: Shares stories of resilience and transformation, offering hope and guidance for those on their healing journey.
Podcasts
On Burnout and how to Complete the Stress Cycle by Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski, interviewed by Brené Brown: A deep dive into the science of stress and burnout, with practical tips for recovery.
Breathing Wind: Sarah Davis and Nalia Francis: Offers a space for exploring grief, loss, and healing through storytelling and conversation.
People, Courses, & Organizations
Grief ritual lineage: Sobonfu & Malidoma Somé
The Great Turning, The work that reconnects: Joanna Macy
The Resilience Toolkit: Nkem Ndefo
Healing at the Roots: Ahlay Blakely
Somatic Embodiment and Regulation: Linda Thai
Seven Homecomings Certification Course: Lama Rod Owens
The Liberated Heart of Ma Tara: Lama Rod Owens
Song - You do not carry this all alone: Ahlay Blakely
Communal Consultations in Somatic Abolitionism: Resmaa Menekem and Karine Bell*
*Note: Not a formal recommendation of this work, it has significantly influenced my own.
Creating Space for Grief
To truly support individuals and communities in their grief journeys, we must create safe and inclusive spaces. Here are some foundational principles for trauma-informed grief practices from many of the authors shared above:
Everything is an offering: Respect individual boundaries and needs.
Grounding and centering: Prioritize physical and emotional well-being.
Noticing exits: Provide opportunities for individuals to step back when needed.
Body care: Attend to physical sensations and needs.
Clear communication: Establish open and honest communication.
Stress cycle completion: Support individuals in completing the stress response.
Grief is a complex and multifaceted experience. It is a journey, not a destination. By acknowledging and honoring our grief, we can cultivate deeper connections with ourselves and others. Let us create a world where grief is met with compassion, understanding, and support.
I know that grief comes and goes along with joy, frustration, anxiety, and anger - they are working together to support us. I know that my grief is reminding me that I love deeply and love a lot. When I listen to my grief I also feel a deep connection to knowing i care about this earth and one another, which helps me shift from resisting to allowing. May you find spaces for the allowing of whatever and whichever emotions seem to be surfacing for you these days.
