The Science of Grieving
The loss of a loved one is now and has always been a difficult and emotional time. The way in which a person experiences grief is a personal journey and not something that can be defined as right or wrong. Research into the topic of grief and the process of grieving can help make sense of it.
Some of the most widely accepted theories on the process of grieving are the Elizabeth Kubler-Ross's Five Stages of Grief (pdf), John Bowlby’s Attachment Theory, Erich Lindemann’s grief work, Therese Rando’s Six R model and Susan Le Poidevin's Multidimensional Model.
While these models may help us understand grief in an objective, intellectual way, they are no substitute for compassion and empathy. Research shows that unresolved grief sets a person up for a host of physical and mental problems. Getting help in understanding and experiencing the grief process can be as simple as talking with a friend or finding a grief counselor.
To learn more about grief and the grieving process, refer to the resources below.
Books
Yoga for Grief Relief: Simple Practices for Transforming Your Grieving Mind & Body by Antonio Sausys
Catching Your Breath in Grief: ...and Grace Will Lead You Home by Thomas Attig and William Rathie
Digital Media
Children and Grief: Children Teaching Children About Grief (videorecording)
From the Web
Historic tombstones and their role in grieving
How grief negatively impacts your health
What happens to our social media footprint when we die?
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