Navigating Grief and Seeking Connection while Embracing the Essence of the Holidays.

As we bid farewell to 2023, we want to take a moment to reflect on some powerful conversations we had to support those who are grieving and seeking connection during this holiday season.

We began our conversation with a familiar voice Julie Ryan in our episode Navigating the Holidays where she shares her insights on "How To". From managing triggers to finding ways to honour and remember our loved ones, Julie offers guidance that can help you navigate through the holiday season with compassion and kindness.

Next, we dive into a conversation with Carl Nassar to explore the complexities of grief and trauma in today's fast-paced world. How can we stay connected when it feels like we're drifting apart? Dr. Nassar unpacks the influence of cultural identity on our sense of belonging and encourages us to embrace our emotions instead of suppressing them.

We concluded the series of discussing grief around the holidays and our final guest for the year Matthew Brackett who took us on a personal journey and shared his experience of entering the priesthood and being ordained and the death of his father all around Christmas.?

Matthew's unique transition from priesthood to leadership coaching provided us with a fresh perspective on embracing the true meaning of the season. We explored how appreciating the deeper significance of Christmas can enhance our holiday experience, especially when we are grappling with the memories of a loved one's passing.

Our conversation took us into workplace grief and how leaders can balance creating a festive atmosphere for their teams while acknowledging their grief during this time. It's a delicate dance, but by practicing self-awareness, setting appropriate boundaries, and fostering open communication, leaders can create a supportive environment that allows both celebration and healing. This approach opens the way to support anyone grieving a loss feel supported at work.

One important theme that emerges from these discussions is the power of sharing our grief. By allowing ourselves to express our feelings and connect with others who understand, we challenge societal norms around coping with loss. It's through this vulnerability and support that healing can truly begin.

Remember, your journey through grief is unique, and it's crucial to honour and respect your own emotions during this season. Allow yourself moments of reflection, cherish the memories of your loved ones, and seek support from those around you.

As we move forward, let's continue to embrace the essence of the holidays all year long (I discovered was all about LOVE) and find solace in the connections we forge. Together, we can navigate the challenges of grief, uplift one another, and create a sense of belonging even during difficult times.

Wishing you all peace, comfort, and moments of joy as we step into the new year. We're here for you, every step of the way.

For anyone grieving a loss, please reach out to see how grief coaching can support you.? I currently have a few spaces available in January

With heartfelt compassion to all.

Here are the links to the interviews - may you find them supportive, insightful and hopeful

• Navigating the Holidays with guest Julie Ryan and Transitioning from this life to next - We're Never Alone
• A Journey Through Grief & Trauma Seeking Connection Amidst the Chaos with guest Dr. Carl Nassar
• Finding the Essence of the Holidays with guest Matthew Bracket and Coming Home to Self - Crisis of Identity

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