Thursday, September 8, 2011

Healing Grief Holisitically

With the anniversary of 9/11 looming this month, many affected by the tragedy are still experiencing Grief.  Grief is a natural response to the loss of a loved one, but can also be experienced for complete strangers--as is evidenced by the interest in the Caylee Anthony case.  We are sentient, emotional beings and our very constitution can be affected by our feelings.  Grief can come all at once or it can be parceled into smaller, but no less intense periods.  For those suffering from grief--the ordinary course of action is time and support.  Over time, the feelings are processed, the sadness and sense of loss is often replaced by fond memories or a sense of peace.  For others Grief is pervasive and all encompassing.  Having experienced the loss of both of my parents and my husband before the age of 40, I consider myself to be quite familiar with the emotion and experiences of loss. 

After the deaths of my husband and father within the same year, I found myself plunged into not only grief but depression as well.  Grief is intense, but depression prevents functionality.  Most people are capable of working through their daily activities while grieving but those who are depressed often have no interest, energy, or inclination to continue doing ordinary things.  Medications are effective, yet many come with side effects such as sleepiness, or incoherent thoughts. It is hard to manage a career, drive a car, or manage a household while depressed and/or medicated.  For me, opting to implement Holistic therapies was a turning point in my personal well being.  Reiki was able to release some of the emotional and mental residue which was keeping me down and out of sorts.  Hypnosis helped me quell the negative thought patterns which are so pervasive in the bereaved--sometimes being described as "survivors guilt." Through these and other healing techniques I was able to reclaim my life and begin to piece together a new beginning, including becoming a Certified Practitioner. 

If you or someone you care about is living through the aftermath of losing a loved one or even a pet--there is help available.  The important fact is to recognize when Grief is resolving naturally and when you or they may need help.  Survival is our first instinct, yet grief makes life seem so futile.  It forces us to confront equity, purpose, and even our sense of self worth.  By acknowledging that you may need help, a solution is closer at hand.  I now coach, counsel, and assist others back to the land of the living, by sharing what I have learned in my own journey. Some come into my office, others I speak to via phone.  It is not easy, but there is life after death.  Reclaim your life, it is your birthright.
All my best,

E.

for more information,     soulcenteredhealth@yahoo.com