In pretty much all the other areas of our lives we’re rightfully made aware of the fact that we have to adjust our approach so that it falls more in line with the results of the dynamically changing world we’re living in. You can’t go about job hunting the way your grandparents did it for example, and to make just another one of many more examples – you probably can’t be the model parent you want to be if you don’t have anybody to share the responsibility with or if you don’t at least have an additional source of income to that of your regular job.
Why then are we seemingly slow to shift the paradigms around some of the softer skills we need in our lives, such as how dealing with grief simply has to be approached differently in this day and age? What would you need to do however in order to deal with grief in more of a progressive manner which falls more in line with the demands of modern day life?
First let’s start with some of the fundamentals which largely remain the same, except there’s an ever bigger need for them to be reinforced:
Encourage a concerted approach
Yes, a joint approach where all remaining family members support each other in dealing with the grief that comes with losing one of theirs is the way to go. It’s one of the best ways which forms part of traditional family values and if there was ever a time when this approach needed to be reinforced, it’s now. We are increasingly living in a world where the only time we come together even as friends and family is when we’re spending money, otherwise just think about just how short of a time you get for something like compassionate leave.
Trust me, it makes it just a little bit better, but significantly so when you have someone to share the grief with, so check up on the other friends and family who are grieving.
Seeing the death of a loved one as a progression into a new state
It goes way beyond just approaching this from a philosophical or meditative point of view – you can actually practice it physically, that is approaching the death of a loved one as more of a progression into a new state of existence instead of looking at it in the traditional sense of their life coming to a complete end. Something physical and tangible such as cremation jewellery can help with grief in one of the best ways possible too.
This can help bring a sense of closure and serve as a reminder of the deceased. It can also be a source of comfort and offer a sense of connection to the one who has passed away. Knowing that the person is still with them, even in spirit, can help to bring peace and acceptance. This pretty much sums up why so many people get a memorable piece of diamond from ashes made, be it that of a family member or their furry child.
Finding unique coping mechanisms
Sometimes you can’t always be together with your friends and family with whom you’re commonly grieving a loss. At some point, you’ll each need to find unique coping mechanisms which work for each of you, which is okay since people are different and they definitely deal with things differently. The unique coping mechanisms are just the fine details however, with the concerted support you’d be offering each other encompassing these unique coping methods.
Finding the mechanism that works for you is the key. For some, therapy can work. Therefore, approaching centres like Upper East Side Psychology (uppereastsidepsychology.com) might help in acknowledging the feelings, leading to emotional betterment. For others, the same kind of relief can be found in yoga or meditation perhaps, or through a creative outlet like painting or singing.
Parting Words
In embracing a progressive approach to grief, we empower ourselves to navigate loss with resilience. By acknowledging emotions, fostering conversations, seeking guidance, and nurturing well-being, we pave a path toward healing that honors our experiences. As we integrate these principles, we not only honor memories but also embark on a journey of growth. Grief isn’t linear, but a progressive mindset helps us find solace and emerge stronger.