Loss is painful. The first night of the graduate grief class I teach involves naming and listing everything that represents a loss. As students engage, the loss of a job, a relationship, a car, a passing grade, ability to walk and freedom, to name a few, begin to fill the chalkboard. Soon, an exchange regarding the loss from the death of someone is shared.

Death loss is profound and can impact us in many ways. Grief, the normal and natural reaction to loss, any loss, is different for everyone. Grief is experienced emotionally, cognitively, physically, spiritually, socially, economically and behaviorally. While these experiences are not inclusive, it can touch every part of us.

The mourning process is about adaptation, but how, we might ask? Reaching out for support, talking with a counselor or attending a grief class are ways the journey begins in reworking our thoughts and feelings.

A spiritual reaction causes us to struggle with purpose and meaning, rocking us to the core of our existence. When we react spiritually, the antidote can be a compassionate, kind soul. Because grief can evoke existential questions about suffering and meaning, validation can help nourish the soul and provide a sense of comfort and connection.

Dr. Robert Neimeyer, a Clinician, Academic and Author once said, “Bereavement is among other things, a crisis in meaning.” A crisis is a turning point; a defining moment. If we begin to look at this defining moment as a way of letting go of control, our spiritual heaviness can shift to one of validation.

Connecting to nature and flowers is a way to help nourish our soul and release control. Engaging our senses with living things creates mindful and positive expression and being around nature has psychological benefits. When we can let go of control we can begin to focus on the positive in our life as nature is one constant in life that we have no control over.

Lisa Story Guest ColumnistLisa Story Guest ColumnistLisa Story, Guest Columnist

Lisa Story, a nature enthusiast, is the founder of Hope Grows, a non-profit organization Cultivating Caregiver Wellness. A Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Thanatologist, Lisa’s professional experience in grief & bereavement and the connection to the natural world has led her to the path of the non-profit. She also holds Certificates in Addictions Counseling and Horticultural therapy.