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Summary

In this episode of Growth from Grief, Erin Nelson, the executive director of Jessica's House, shares her personal journey through grief after losing her husband, mother, and son and how these experiences led to the creation of a supportive community for grieving families. The conversation explores the importance of community support, the unique ways children and adults grieve, and the therapeutic approaches used at Jessica's House to help children process their grief. Erin emphasizes the significance of modeling grief for children, the necessity of being present for those who are grieving, and offers practical advice for coping with grief, especially during the holiday season.

Takeaways

• Grief is a complex journey that can affect the entire family.
• Children often grieve in bits and pieces, allowing for natural breaks.
• Modeling grief for children helps them understand and express their emotions.
• Jessica's House provides a safe space for grieving families to connect and heal.
• Therapeutic approaches, like play and art, help children process their grief.

Thank you for listening! Visit www.sueandersenyoga.com for Yoga for Grief classes and additional resources.

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Summary

In this conversation, Susan Andersen explores the intricate relationship between gratitude and pain, emphasizing that while gratitude can serve as a bridge to hope, it is often misinterpreted in our culture as a remedy for grief. She highlights the importance of acknowledging pain and sorrow without the pressure to feel grateful, as this can invalidate genuine emotions.

Takeaways

• It's hard to be grateful when you're in so much pain.
• Tiny, small pieces of gratitude can become a bridge back to hope.
• Our culture sometimes treats gratitude as an antidote to pain.
• Living alongside pain is essential rather than trying to fix it with gratitude.
• Cultural pressures can distort our understanding of gratitude.

Thank you for listening! Visit www.sueandersenyoga.com for Yoga for Grief classes and additional resources.

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Summary

In this episode of Growth from Grief, Jenny Brandemuehl, the author of Forever Fly Free: One Woman's Story of Resilience and the Power of Hope and Love shares her profound journey of love, trauma, and resilience following her husband's devastating plane crash. She discusses the power of community, the importance of vulnerability, and how to navigate the complexities of caregiving during traumatic times. Jenny emphasizes the significance of hope, routine, and self-compassion in the healing process, while also exploring how to rediscover purpose and embrace life after loss. Her story serves as an inspiring reminder of the strength of love and the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Takeaways

• The power of community can provide immense support during difficult times.
• Hope is not just expectation but a belief in possibilities.
• Rediscovering purpose can lead to healing after loss.
• Self-compassion is essential for emotional well-being.
• Love can have a ripple effect, inspiring others.

Jenny's book is available on November 4th, 2025

Thank you for listening! Visit www.sueandersenyoga.com for Yoga for Grief classes and additional resources.