Embracing Rest, Reflection, and Renewal.

Embracing Rest, Reflection, and Renewal in Life's Fourth Quarter.

What are you delaying or postponing in this current phase of life?

Taking time to rest and reflect helps bring clarity to life. After rejuvenating, I am ready to focus on what nurtures the human spirit, particularly mine, in the latter part of life.

An impactful moment occurred recently when my granddaughter advised me to rest and enjoy life because I've accomplished plenty; she said,” Grandma, you're in the fourth quarter, enjoy your life.” At first, I just laughed at the thought of the fourth quarter.

But the sentiment resonated deeply with me as I embarked on a sabbatical. When I shared this with my son, he reminded me that since I enjoy what I do, I should continue pursuing it. Both perspectives contributed significantly to my contemplation, and now I return refreshed and re-energized in this final phase of life, armed with new goals and intentions. Most don't think about mortality this way, but the end of life is just as natural as the birth or beginning of life.

Conversations with my eldest son and grandchild have influenced the direction of Anna L Woods Coaching and Consultant Services. My passions lie in advocating for Black maternal mental health, delving into the realms of grief and trauma, and promoting transparency and authenticity to empower others to heal. Travel, personal growth, and fostering stronger bonds with my spouse, children, siblings, and extended family are key aspects I wish to nurture in this final chapter of life. With these passions driving me, I aim to rest more, reset often, and seek inspiration that ignites my spirit from within while encouraging others to do the same.

Today, I leave you with three introspective questions:

1. What emotional hardships related to grief and trauma do you need to confront to progress toward your goals? Sometimes, the only way forward is through these challenges.

2. Passion often emerges from experiences of grief and trauma; what drives you and makes your heart sing? Embracing your passion may require addressing past pain rather than avoiding it.

3. Recognizing that everything has its time and season, what are you delaying in this current phase of life?

   It doesn't matter what stage of life you are in; taking time to rest and reflect brings clarity. Begin by examining the past, which may reveal some unresolved emotional pain of grief holding you back. You can decide to begin the recovery journey one small step at a time!

   Thank you for meeting me here!

   Anna L. Woods, MMin.

   Certified Trauma Informed Life Coach and Grief Specialist

Black History, Maternal Health, and Grief

Exploring The Intersection

As an African American woman, I've reflected deeply on the importance of understanding the stories of my ancestors. This curiosity has brought attention to my maternal health story and mental well-being, leading me to take deeper, profound, proactive steps following the loss of my parents. These reflections have prompted me to see a potential link between the difficulties I faced (near-death hemorrhaging) during childbirth and the tragic passing of my paternal grandmother due to excessive bleeding (hemorrhage). Recognizing how historical narratives affect present-day experiences is crucial, particularly about maternal mental health in our communities.

“The CDC's 2021 Maternal Mortality Rates in the United States reveal distressing statistics: non-Hispanic Black women endured a maternal mortality rate of 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births, which is 2.6 times higher than that of non-Hispanic White women.”

This data starkly highlights disparities in maternal health outcomes, with maternal mental health presenting as a primary complication during pregnancy and childbirth.

Reflecting on my birthing challenges and those of my biological grandmother, I've understood the importance of family history. Passing knowledge to future generations, especially our daughters, is crucial and could potentially impact and save lives. Education is essential in dispelling myths and misinformation surrounding loss, grief, mental wellness, and maternal mental health challenges, such as normal baby blues, which can lead to postpartum depression. It's also critical to acknowledge that what affects the mother impacts the father, family, and community.

According to the CDC's 2022 media release, the critical findings in pregnancy-related deaths are alarming and listed here: “22% occurred during pregnancy, 25% on the day of delivery or within seven days after, and 53% within seven days to 1 year after pregnancy.” Additionally, four out of five deaths are preventable, underlining the urgent need for increased awareness and education on this topic.

The primary underlying causes of pregnancy-related deaths are as follows:

“Mental health conditions (including deaths by suicide and overdose/poisoning related to substance use disorder) (23%). Excessive bleeding (hemorrhage) (14%). Cardiac and coronary conditions (related to the heart) (13%) and Infection (9%)”

Learning from ancestral history not only helps us understand grief within the context of maternal mental health but also provides insight into the broader narrative of resilience, strength, and survival. The CDC data emphasizes the critical need to address maternal health disparities, which carry generational trauma and grief. We may incorporate the following four steps to advocate for changes in maternal mental health and a more equitable future, impacting maternal health for BIPOC (black, Indigenous, people of color).

1. First, examine and acknowledge what the data reveals exists in care systems.

2. Provide trusted (safe space) for culturally sensitive education around loss and the emotional pain of maternal grief (including fathers and families).

3. Utilize trauma-informed care to address the deep generational emotions of maternal grief to begin recognizing and healing from our experiences.

4. Examining the role and responsibility of our Black church and communities of faith in addressing misinformation and raising awareness about maternal mental health and mental health overall is deeply significant.

   Historically, the church for the black community is a place of hope and healing. However, we must also acknowledge and balance scientific data and support our communities, which often suffer from inadequate knowledge and resources for mental health challenges. Numerous complex factors are at play, including historical disparities. Still, we must strive to improve mental health and wellness in our communities, which is critical to progress.

During Black History Month and beyond, we must delve into our families' diverse history and recognize our ancestors' grieving experiences and struggles. This process offers invaluable insights into our responses to emotional pain and contributes to our emotional well-being. Every family and culture has its unique approach to loss and grief, often rooted in specific rituals, traditions, or community support. Understanding these historical perspectives equips us to navigate our emotional well-being and cope with loss effectively.

By honoring our ancestors and sharing our stories, we gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our heritage, empowering us to impact our lives and communities positively.

I hope to see you along the way…

Anna Laura!💙

#healingpractitioners #mystory #ourstories #blackhistory #maternalhistoty #mentalwellness #community #loss #grief #trauma #flamomsmatter

[Sources]

1. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/hestat/maternal-mortality/2021/maternal-mortality-rates-2021.htm

2. https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/first-year-of-life/baby-blues-or-postpartum-depression/

3. https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2022/p0919-pregnancy-related-deaths.html

Show Up for Yourself

Aids in Showing Up for Others.

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to get caught up in the needs and demands of others, often neglecting our well-being in the process. However, taking the time to show up for ourselves is crucial for our happiness and fulfillment and enables us to better show up for others. When prioritizing self-care and self-compassion, we become better equipped to support and uplift those around us. Here's why showing up for yourself aids in showing up for others.

Self-care Breeds Empathy

Self-care replenishes our emotional, physical, and mental reserves, allowing us to show up more fully and authentically for others. By prioritizing our well-being, we're better able to maintain balance and avoid burnout, which enhances our capacity for empathy and understanding. When we care for ourselves, we can better empathize with the challenges and struggles others face, offering them genuine support and compassion.

Setting Boundaries Establishes Healthy Relationships

Showing up for ourselves involves setting boundaries that protect our time, energy, and emotional well-being. By establishing clear boundaries, we create healthier relationships with others. We can better communicate our needs, honor our limits, and maintain a sense of integrity. This, in turn, fosters healthier dynamics in our interactions. When we show up for ourselves by setting boundaries, we model healthy relationship behaviors, inspiring others to do the same.

Personal Growth Inspires Growth in Others

When we prioritize personal growth and development, we become catalysts for change in those around us. By investing in our learning, exploring new interests, and pursuing our passions, we inspire others to do the same. Our commitment to self-improvement creates a ripple effect, sparking curiosity, motivation, and inspiration in those we interact with. By showing up for ourselves, we become positive role models, igniting a desire for growth and transformation in others.

Authenticity Enhances Connection

Authenticity is a powerful tool for connecting with others. When we show up for ourselves by embracing our true selves and living in alignment with our values, we cultivate more profound and meaningful connections with others. It allows us to be vulnerable, honest, and open, which creates a safe space for others to do the same. We foster an environment where trust and connection thrive by authentically showing up for ourselves.

Showing up for yourself is not a selfish act; it's a necessary step toward becoming a better version of yourself and aiding in the growth and well-being of those around you. By prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, pursuing personal growth, and embracing authenticity, we become more equipped to show up for others with empathy, support, and genuine connection. So, remember, by showing up for yourself, you'll find that you're also showing up for others in more profound and meaningful ways.

I hope to see you along the way…

Anna Laura!💙

#lifecoach #griefjourney #griefcoach #itsajourney #wellbeing #selfcare #growth #showup #brighterdays #faith #hope #joy#love

Emotional Resilience

The emotional pain of grief, filled with sadness and joy, accompanies us in our everyday lives. It can both give and take energy as we go through experiences of loss. This profound energy can transform our lives as it forces us to acknowledge the inevitable trials and tribulations we face. However, amidst the pain, resilience and purpose emerge.

This newfound emotional resilience and purpose allows for a shift in perspective, moving away from a victim mentality and toward the realization that we have the power to choose differently. It involves letting go of people, places, and things that do not align with your new direction. It is essential to recognize that we are blessed in all aspects of life, and by changing our perspective, we can envision and embrace the sun's warmth on the horizon.

To navigate this journey, we must ask ourselves thought-provoking questions and remain curious about life. Reflecting on our losses and grief, we can contemplate the purpose behind the emotional pain. And then, with our hearts and minds open as our guide, we can move toward the direction that holds meaning for us. Move toward the warmth of brighter days as we face and embrace emotional pain and feel the sun on our faces. 

Emotional resilience is crucial when navigating the pain of grief because it helps individuals adapt and cope with the overwhelming emotions associated with loss. Grief can be an incredibly challenging and complex experience, often eliciting intense emotions such as sadness, anger, guilt, and even joy. 

Emotional resilience enables individuals to bounce back from adversity, withstand difficult emotions, and ultimately find healing and growth. It provides the strength and inner resources to navigate the grieving process with courage and hope.

Here are five reasons why emotional resilience is necessary during grief:

1. Coping with Intense Emotions

   Grief can trigger severe and sometimes conflicting emotions. Emotional resilience allows individuals to acknowledge and process these emotions without being overwhelmed. It helps create a foundation for emotional stability and the ability to regulate and express feelings healthily.

2. Adapting to Change

Grief brings about significant changes in life, often disrupting routines, relationships, and even identity. Emotional resilience enables individuals to adapt to these changes, fostering a sense of flexibility and openness to new experiences and possibilities.

3. Finding Meaning and Purpose

The grief journey often prompts individuals to search for meaning and purpose. Emotional resilience provides the strength and determination to explore and rediscover what truly matters, helping individuals find meaning despite loss.

4. Building Supportive Relationships

 During grief, having a solid support system is crucial. Emotional resilience allows you to reach out for support, communicate your needs effectively, and establish and maintain healthy relationships with loved ones and supportive professionals.

5. Cultivating Self-care and Self-compassion

Grief can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Emotional resilience encourages individuals to prioritize self-care, engage in activities that nurture their well-being, and practice self-compassion. It helps you remember to be gentle with yourself as you navigate this challenging journey.

Emotional resilience empowers you to face the emotional pain of grief with strength, adaptability, and hope. It provides the foundation for growth and transformation, helping you navigate the grief journey and eventually find a new sense of meaning and purpose in your life.

I hope to see you along the way…

Anna Laura!💙

#lifecoach #griefjourney #griefcoach #itsajourney #reflect #emotional #resilience #brighterdays #faith #hope #joy

Navigating the Human Emotions of Grief.

In a world that often discourages the open expression of our emotions during times of loss and grief, I find myself delving into a faith perspective to explore the significance of embracing our feelings. In this blog post, we'll reflect on the powerful and emotional verse “Jesus wept” (John 11:35) from the Gospel of John, chapter 11. Join me on this journey as we spend more time understanding the humanity and divinity of Jesus within the biblical text.

The Raising of Lazarus

The Gospel of John, chapter 11, recounts the poignant story of Lazarus, a close friend of Jesus who fell ill and passed away. Upon receiving the news, Jesus arrived in Bethany, where Lazarus' sisters, Mary and Martha, were mourning his death. As Jesus observed the grief around Him, He was profoundly moved.

The Meaning of “Jesus Wept”

In John 11:33-37, we encounter Jesus' emotional response to Lazarus' death encapsulated in the phrase "Jesus wept." These two words reveal the depth of Jesus' compassion, emphasizing His understanding of the pain and loss felt by Mary, Martha, and those grieving for Lazarus.

Although Jesus knew that He would soon raise Lazarus from the dead, He allowed Himself to fully experience and express His emotions. Instead of suppressing His tears or detaching Himself from the situation, He openly wept, connecting authentically with the pain of those around Him.

The Freedom to Express Our Emotions

In a world that often encourages us to hide or suppress our emotions, Jesus’ example teaches us the importance of embracing our feelings. As both fully divine and fully human, Jesus demonstrated vulnerability by shedding tears. He showed us that it's acceptable to mourn, grieve, and express our emotions genuinely.

Crucially, Jesus’ tears did not signify a lack of faith or hope. On the contrary, they demonstrated His deep empathy and love for others. Similarly, we can find freedom in acknowledging and processing our emotions, fostering genuine connections with others and ourselves.

The Healing Power of Emotional Expression

Jesus’ tears were not merely a display of sentimentality; they played a crucial role in the larger story of Lazarus’ resurrection. His emotional response demonstrated His unity with humanity’s pain and foreshadowed His triumph over death.

Our emotional expression can also be a catalyst for healing and transformation. By freely expressing our emotions, we create space for growth, understanding, and connection. Much like Jesus’ tears, our tears can nurture the seeds of hope and restoration in ourselves and those around us.

The passage from John 11:33-37, where Jesus wept, serves as a powerful reminder of our freedom to acknowledge and express our emotions. Jesus' example teaches us that it's okay to grieve, mourn, and shed tears. Embracing our emotions opens doors to healing, growth, and empathy.

Remember, Jesus wept to show unity with humanity’s pain and ultimately triumphed over death. May we, too, realize that by freely and authentically expressing our emotions, we can find healing, restoration, and embrace the fullness of life.

This year, I will dedicate more time to pondering this topic in stillness. Join me on this journey and invite others to come along!

And as I press on in hope, I look forward to seeing you along the way!

Anna L. Woods, MMin, CLC, AGS

Peace, Hope, and Joy!

#lifecoach #griefspecialist #strageticleadership #itsajourney #insideout

#hope #joy #faith #JesusWept #humanemotions #yetdevine

Honoring Emotions

Grief and the Holidays.

Thanksgiving is just a few days away, and Christmas is just around the corner. The holiday's sights, sounds, and smells create joy for some, but for others, it may prompt your heart to race, the pit in your stomach to appear, and even a tear in your eyes. This may be an indication of unresolved grief, and you are grieving. How do I know? It happens to me, and I'm speaking firsthand. I will lean into my emotions and allow myself to feel. You see, I, too, am approaching the Christmas Holiday with loved ones missing. My parents are both deceased, and we are now empty nesters. We have beautiful memories of our dad and mom, and although we grieve the loss, we will cherish the joy of holidays past.

It doesn't matter if your heart is broken because someone died, a relationship has gone wrong, or your childhood was painful; it doesn't matter; the emotional pain of grief is real. It is a normal and natural response to your loss, and the stimulus of the holidays may seem overwhelming, but allow yourself to feel to heal.

The holidays also remind me of beautiful memories of Mom in the kitchen, with a love for preparing cakes and pies and, oh, the smells that would rise from the pots on the stove! Smells of the pending traditional meal! With each family arrival, the sounds grew louder as siblings gathered with kids and grandkids; laughter, singing, and praying would often erupt. We deeply loved this time with Dad and Mom, and I cherish the memories of Christmas's sights, sounds, and smells.

The type of loss doesn't matter; it could be the loss of a loved one, or if you can't see your family this year, you might feel weary about the holidays. You might ask, "What's so merry about this Christmas?" There is good news: grief doesn't have to impact the holiday season for the rest of your life.

Being aware in advance that holidays can be difficult, I am sharing some tips that you may find helpful.

1. You can decide in advance what you want your holidays to be even when the emotions erupt.

2. Plan. If you don't want to celebrate, it's okay; do your best not to isolate yourself. It's normal and natural to feel as if you are on your own in your grief and no one understands, but having a place to go or a friend to call can be most helpful. Being alone in isolation has the potential to make you feel worse.

2. Be truthful about how you feel. It is crucial, and sharing your thoughts is essential so it doesn't stay bottled up. A simple acknowledgment often helps. Saying something like, "Currently, I feel sad that my loved one won't be with us this Christmas."

3. Take time and decide which traditions you will continue and which you want to change. Make a dish or a unique decoration to honor your loved one who died or discuss your favorite holiday memories with family and friends.

4. Try to avoid overeating or over-drinking. Remember, eating and drinking can be substituted for not feeling bad. The sugar and alcohol won't make you feel better but will make you feel different. Then, the cause of your sadness is not addressed. I know it's difficult, but try to feel your feelings rather than disguise them.

The holiday's sights, sounds, and smells create joy for some, but for others, it may prompt the emotions of grief and sadness. If you find yourself stuck in your grief additional help may be needed. There are many valuable educational tools in my toolbox from Grief Recovery, and I would like to share more with you. Consider signing up for a Grief Recovery Outreach Program.

We offer one-on-one online and group sessions. Book a discovery conversation at anna@al-woods.com. The program will help you acquire the necessary tools to process grief's emotional pain and live life joyfully!

Please share this blog with someone who may be struggling this holiday season. Follow me @alwcoaching on social media for motivational tips for getting through each day while grieving.

Wishing you a joyful holiday season!

Thank you for meeting me here!

Anna Laura!

Developing Emotional Resilience

Finding  the Courage to Heal Disrupting Grief

The Courage to Heal Emotionally

Emotional pain (grief) is a powerful force that can affect our emotional well-being; however, it is often misunderstood. It is a universal experience that 100% of all humans will go through at some point in their lives. The way we understand loss and approach our daily lives is greatly influenced by how we process and cope with emotional pain. Educating ourselves about grief and its intricate relationship with our emotions and overall well-being becomes essential to disrupting grief. This disruption involves approaching the myths and misinformation with an evidence-based Grief Recovery Method® educational program that defines grief examines and reflects on past experiences, identifies the source of our emotional pain, and why we remain stuck in grief, and lastly gives voice to the pain. It makes space for choices and free will to take responsibility for our recovery and free ourselves of what is often generational grief (emotional pain). 

The Definition of Grief and Its Relation to Our Emotions

Disrupting grief starts with understanding what grief is and how it impacts emotional well-being. Grief is the normal and natural response to loss of any kind; however, most associate grief with death and divorce only. The loss of someone or something has both tangible and intangible losses and impacts life's regular rhythms. It is a complex flow of intense, mixed emotions, varying from sorrow and sadness to anger, perceived guilt, relief, and happiness. However, despite the mixed feelings, grief is not a sign of weakness. It is a part of the human experience and a testament to our capacity to love and form meaningful connections.

Exploring Spiritual and Religious Beliefs in the Context of Grief Education

People's religious and spiritual beliefs often play a significant role in understanding and coping with grief. For some, these beliefs provide a framework that helps make sense of their loss and offers hope for eventual healing. For others, it might raise difficult questions and challenge their faith. Recognizing, honoring, and acknowledging these differing perspectives is a crucial part of grief education. Emotional pain knows no race, gender, or religious belief; it is essential in our differences; empathy is fostered with compassion. Empathy allows us to see each other and provide support in our uniqueness during challenging times.

Acknowledging and Naming Emotional Pain to Create Space for Healing and Joy.

Acknowledging our emotional pain is another essential component of disrupting grief, which can often link to generational trauma. Stephanie M. Hutchins states, "Your pain didn't start with you, but it can end with you." There's a connection to breaking emotional pain and trauma as the catalyst to breaking the cycle to heal, which includes allowing yourself to grieve. Often, to avoid feeling, we suppress our emotions and deny ourselves the space to mourn losses. However, ignoring our pain does not make it go away. On the contrary, it can make the healing process more difficult. By acknowledging our feelings and naming our pain, we can create space for healing. This practice also paves the way for joy to resurface, even during our grief. 

Examining the Root Causes of Emotional Pain

Part of the healing process involves examining the root causes of our emotional pain. This introspection can be challenging, requiring us to confront uncomfortable truths and re-live painful moments. It also provides space for forgiveness, a foundational aspect of emotional healing. All components are essential to understanding and learning how to manage our grief. By gaining insight into what caused our pain, we can arrive at the truth, forgive and better understand our emotions, and develop effective coping strategies.

Moving Forward: The Courage to Heal

It is important to remember that moving forward often means leaving things behind, which can be difficult. However, the risk of staying in the same place can damage overall health and well-being. As a life and grief coach, be encouraged to take the next best steps toward healing and growth. When we change on the inside over time, the things that no longer work or serve the new version of ourselves will fade into the background and move further away. Remember, it is okay to grieve and feel emotions, but it is also vital to take action toward healing. Disrupting grief is not about forgetting or minimizing loss but about finding ways to live with it and eventually heal from it. It is about having the courage to confront emotional pain (grief), acknowledge and express your emotions, and take the steps necessary to move forward.

One Small Correct Step can lead to significant gains.

It is essential to note you don't need to tell all the personal details of your story to begin disrupting the emotional pain; start with how you felt or feel emotionally. Each right step leads to the next and the next, and so on, you go. The journey is challenging; however, you are worth every disruption through grief education.

 Finally, Because of these disruptions, I am joyful. I am content in all things. (Phillippians 4:12) As one of my all-time favorites, Maya Angelou, states, "I wouldn't take anything for my journey, now!" 

Thank you for meeting me here!

Anna Laura 💙

Anna L. Woods, MMin, CLC, CGC

ALWCoaching Services

Inspiring Purpose and Well-being through life's challenges.

#lifecoach #griefcoach #strategicleadership #learnunlearnrelearn #emotionalwellbeing #emotionalhealth #awareness #distruping #grief #education #evidencebased

Evolving Emotions Perinatal, Maternal, Paternal Journey

The time before, during, and after the birth of your baby is full of changes. You have time to prepare for some changes, and some may be unforeseen. Changes in your body, changes in your mind, changes in your family, changes within your relationships. Even changes in your schedule and priorities may change.

Some changes feel like progress, while others may feel like loss and grief. You may be excited and hopeful in your journey and feel sad, lost, isolated, or unsure. These changes of mixed emotions defined as grief are both expected and natural.

Let's consider that loss and grief are normal and innate responses to significant emotional changes. We are often not taught to view our considerable emotional experiences this way. As a result, we experience tremendous emotional pain and usually have no reliable source to verbalize and have our grief validated as a normal and natural part of the maternal journey.

Consider acknowledging the duality you feel. You may be both excited and scared about becoming a parent. You may feel an immeasurable amount of love for your baby and an immeasurable need for a nap. Be gentle and graceful with your changes, and give yourself extra time and love.

While we frequently associate these changes with Moms, Fathers are not exempt and impacted by the changes happening with Mom. The roller coaster of emotions is part of the perinatal, paternal, and maternal journey and affects all family members.

Pay attention to your emotions; finding a safe person and space to voice your emotional pain (grief) is a critical step for the overall emotional well-being of Mom, Baby, and Father.

Thank you for meeting me here!

Anna Laura💙

#flmmhc #flmomsmatter

Name It!

Transformation Begins When We No Longer Accept What We See In Ourselves and Begin to Own Our Behavior Without Excuses.

Are you owing and naming the thing? We must name it to heal from it.

Have you ever heard this “Sweep off your own front porch, before you sweep someone else’s.”

And this!

“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye?” Matthew 7:3-5

When I begin to own my good, bad, and ugly behaviors transformation begins. No change will occur without these three things, self-examination, self-responsibilities, and doing the hard work.

Here are a few reasons why.

Consider negativity comes naturally for many especially if your environment is hostile. We often repeat what we see in our dominant environment. As humans the natural tendency is to look at the faults of others. Chances are what we criticize in others is what we need to work on in ourselves. At least that’s my story!

Additionally, I was unable to name it and didn't understand the emotional pain (grief), and as a result, the why became elusive or difficult to identify. Simply put I was STUCK!

What came next?

I examined my inner thoughts and named the thing - that thing that caused me emotional pain (grief).

I faced and owned my shortcomings, difficult but necessary. I became UNSTUCK!

I worked (ongoing) on my transformation - No deflecting, just name the thing calling myself out, otherwise, I'm wasting time and I have less time to waste at this age.

Lastly, I remove myself from people, places, and things that do not reflect the chosen path for me. This is for the good of both parties, no more pretending.

What happened next?

Gained greater insight into my grief journey, my why, and my purpose.

Examine and identify emotional pain (grief) as necessary for human growth.

Discovered and gained more from life's journey, more joy, peace, and happiness.

Grief is a normal and natural response to significant loss of any kind and part of life’s journey.

Thank you for joining me here!

Anna Laura💙

#lifecoach #griefcoach #griefspecialist #griefeducation #unlearnandrelearn #grief #loss #life #journey #joy #emotionalwellbeing #emotionalhealth #holdingspace #mystillness #transformation

Spirit of Gratitude

Spirit of Gratitude.
It doesn’t matter what it looks like on the surface there is no perfect life. And I am overwhelmed with gratitude for this journey, grateful for every valley and hilltop experience, for protection over my beloved family.

Grateful.
To serve others as a Life Coach and Grief Specialist providing grief education from an evidence-based platform.

To share the gift of wisdom and knowledge on a topic that impacts 100% of all humans.

To normalize the conversations about loss and grief as a natural part of life’s journey.

To be a messenger in challenging myths that keep humans stuck in the generational cycles of loss, grief, and grieving.

Gratitude.
For the opening and softening of hearts and new perspectives.

Gratitude.
To travel and share through pictures, and words of what’s possible as loss and grief contain growth and new life.

Gratitude
To sit with me (which is hard), leaving the old behind and shifting perspectives to new possibilities!

I am grateful, what are you thankful for?

Thank you for meeting me here in this space!
In the Spirit of gratitude,

Anna Laura 💙
#gratitude #menatlhealth #mentalwellness #selfcare #selfawareness #live #life #full #lifecoach #griefspecialist #gratitude #grateful

Laughter

Did you know that laughing can do wonders for your health?

Not only does it boost your immune system, but it can also decrease stress hormones and increase immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies. When you laugh, your body releases endorphins, which promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.

 Additionally, laughing can help protect your heart by improving the function of blood vessels and increasing blood flow. It's even been found that laughing for just 10 to 15 minutes a day can burn approximately 40 calories. And if you're feeling angry or resentful, looking at the funny side can help put things into perspective and enable you to move on.

Finally, studies suggest that people with a strong sense of humor may even live longer. So, don't forget to find the humor in life and laugh as much as you can!

Thank you for meeting me here now laugh!

Love and Light,

Anna Laura

#gratitude #menatlhealth #mentalwellness #selfcare #selfawareness #live #life #full #lifecoach #griefspecialist #laugh

Memories of Daddy

Memories of Daddy.

Daddy is what we called him.
Full of Life...
Full of Joy...
Full of Love...
Full of Inspiration...
Full of Determination...
Daddy prayed with and for his family.
A positive word and A wise saying he gave.
These are the memories I will always cherish,

Always full even until the end, always full of life. 🦋
Joyful Memories of Daddy.

May you cherish the memories of those you love.

Thank you for meeting me here.

Love and Light,

Anna Laura 💙
#gratitude #menatlhealth #mentalwellness #selfcare #selfawareness #live #life #full

#lifecoach #griefspecialist

The Skin We Wear

Grief and the skin we wear.

Our skin is a living canvas, holding emotions and history and often carrying the weight of grief from one generation to the next.

I recently had the opportunity to visit Science World in Vancouver, where an inspiring exhibit on the skin, generously supported by the Pritzker family, brought to light the intricate nature of our outer covering. As I navigated through the exhibit, I was struck by the sheer depth of information and its emotional impact on me.

California Academy of Sciences defines skin as a living armor, an ever-evolving sensor of our identity, and the outer interface connecting us to the world. Studies have also shown that our genomes are 99.99% identical despite our differences. This realization led me to a profound reflection on the skin I inhabit and how it influences the way I am perceived in the world.

The exhibition also sheds light on the emotional well-being of individuals with black and brown skin, revealing the deep impact of societal perceptions. It was a rare instance of raw honesty on public display, yet many visitors overlooked its significance, dismissing or denying the very real experiences shared within the exhibit.

Amidst this exploration, I found solace in pausing, embracing the facts, and considering a more empathetic way forward as a society.

I am grateful for the chance to reflect and celebrate in the space of understanding and self-awareness.

With love and light, Anna Laura 💙

Thank you for meeting me here in this space!

Love and Light!

Anna Laura💙

#gratitude #menatlhealth #mentalwellness #selfcare #selfawareness #live #life #full #lifecoach #griefspecialist #travels#iphonephotography #skin #juneteenth #BHM2024

@californiaacademyofsciences @scienceworldvancouver