How to Cope with Grief and Find Your New Rhythm

Amber Campana Acupuncturist

(Example Description) As a board certified reproductive endocrinologist, specializing in the field of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), it has been my life’s work to help build families. Many of my patients come to me with little hope and often misdiagnosis’. I have been influential in the births of more than 6000... more

Grief is an act of love...

Grief is a natural and challenging part of life. Whether you are experiencing the loss of a child, partner, family member, friend, a beloved pet, job, or relationship, everyone experiences grief differently. There are no linear stages or magic cures for the grieving process. You cannot hurry grief, and sometimes when you start to feel stronger, it hits you like a crashing wave.

When you are grieving a loss, it is best to not suppress your emotions, or you may prolong the grieving process. While you are grieving, it is common to feel physical, emotional, and spiritual exhaustion. You may feel it is difficult to do everyday life tasks, concentrate or socialize. Wherever you are in your grieving process, know it is where you should be. This is your journey. You need to move towards acceptance, make peace with your grief and cherish the joyful memories of your loss.

In Chinese Medicine, the emotion of grief is strongly associated with the TCM Lung organ of the metal element. Prolonged unprocessed grief can lead to impairment and dysfunction of the TCM lung, which may consume your Lung Qi (life force). Many people develop symptoms of exhaustion, mental weariness, and muscular tension.

The following three approaches help your body combat the physical manifestations of grief and allow you to find a sense of peace on your grieving journey.

Acupressure for Grief

Acupressure is an alternative to acupuncture, where you massage specific areas of the body with your thumb to stimulate the acupuncture point. You may choose to massage the acupuncture point with essential oils such as a calming or respiratory blend. Acupressure can be performed several times per day.

Lung 7: Start by making a thumbs-up sign. You will see a depression at the base of your thumb called the anatomical snuffbox.

Lung 7: Can be found two fingers width up your arm.

Lung 9: Lung 9 is located on your wrist crease, right on the area where your radial artery pulses.

Write a Story, Poem, or Letter

After we experience a profound loss, it can be tough to talk about it. Writing a story, poem, or letter can help you put to words what may be difficult for you to express verbally. You could write about your feelings surrounding your grief, a special memory or story of a loved one, or a poem about the impact your loss had on your life. Expressing your feelings and memories on paper can help free your internal grief emotions. You may want to share your writing or keep it to yourself. It is something you can look back on to embrace your loss and keep fond memories alive.

Breathing Exercises

Breathing exercises can help us cope with loss and release our feelings of grief. Since grief is associated with the Lungs in TCM, it is important to breathe deeply into your diaphragm and fill your lungs to capacity. Breath in through your nose; while doing so, think of breathing deep into your belly and taking in as much air as possible. Once your lungs feel full, hold your breath for 4-5 seconds. After you have counted, release the breath slowly through your mouth until your lungs feel empty. Repeat two more times; you can do this exercise as often as you like throughout the day.

Recipe for Nourishing the Lungs