I have been divorced now for over two years. And as I approach what would have been my 12th anniversary on October 31, 2024, I finally feel ready to talk about divorce loss in a public way. As an expert in the field of death-related grief, I know academically there are similarities and differences between
In grief, life can feel out of control. But one thing I have found is that creating small moments of warmth and comfort is a form of agency. It’s an act of self-compassion, a reminder that even when you cannot control what’s happening around you, you can still tend to your needs. Hygge is about embracing this concept—tuning into your senses, creating a safe, cozy environment, and allowing yourself to slow down.
Embracing our grief journey is like walking through a garden of memories—each step uncovers both the shadows of loss and the light of growth. In acknowledging every petal and thorn, we learn to hold our grief with gentle strength and find resilience in the most unexpected places. Grief is a journey often marked by milestones of
Grief changes the holiday landscape, but it doesn’t have to dictate it. With compassionate planning, we can find a way to honor both our loss and ourselves during this season. The holiday season is often heralded as a time of joy and togetherness, but when you’re grieving, it can transform into a stretch of weeks filled
Why a Grief Support Group Can HelpGrief is something we’re all wired to experience, and while it’s natural, that doesn’t make it any easier. Both experts and everyday people will tell you that social support is key to finding your way through loss. But what do you do when that support isn’t readily available? Many
The first Thanksgiving without your loved one may feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. What once may have been a favorite time of year now amplifies your difficult feelings, leaving you wondering how you will cope with grief during the holidays. But with mindful planning and self-compassion, you can approach this day with intention—creating a space
For many of us, the fall season carries the heavy symbolism of death and endings. The leaves change and fall, mirroring the sense of loss that already weighs on our hearts. It’s a time when grief can become almost tangible, mingling with the very air we breathe. Yet, in recognizing this, we also find a
Grief can often feel like a loop, where the same thoughts, feelings, and memories resurface again and again. Grief journaling is a well-known tool for processing grief, but even that can sometimes feel repetitive or unproductive. One way to break free from this cycle is to approach familiar stories from a fresh perspective. In this blog,
Self-compassion is a vital part of emotional healing, especially when you are dealing with grief and navigating its difficult emotions. Yet even in the best of times, being kind to yourself can be challenging. You might be great at showing compassion to others, but when it comes to turning that kindness inward, it is all
In embracing self-soothing practices you open a door to genuine self-healing. These mindful actions empower you to confront and manage your emotions, rather than sidestepping them through numbing. It’s about building resilience from the inside out, providing yourself with the compassionate attention you deserve. The strategies you employ to ease suffering and manage your emotions fall
Grief is often associated with the death of a loved one, but the truth is, we experience grief in many other forms throughout our lives. Non-death losses—like the end of a relationship, losing a job, or even unmet expectations—can trigger deep emotional responses that are just as valid and impactful as those caused by death. Yet,
Falling Waters, WV — We are thrilled to announce the upcoming release of Navigating Loss: Wisdom and Self-Care for Times of Grief and The Challenges of Life by Heather Stang, a groundbreaking guide that compassionately supports those experiencing grief from all forms of loss, including divorce, estrangement, finances, family caregiving, and career change. Available for
