Grief processing through yoga

Late October and early November have long been a time of remembrance and grief, from traditions as varied as Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in Latin American countries to All Saints Day in the Christian tradition to Samhain for those who follow Celtic spirituality. There's so much more depth than what we see on Halloween -- which was first called All Hallows' Eve. Even for those who don't celebrate any of the above remembrances, this is a time of year in the Northern Hemisphere when green things turn brown, leaves fall and days grow shorter. The seasons change, in nature and in our lives.

Against this backdrop, I offer Yoga for Grief, now the third annual. This series is offered on Sundays in November, 6, 13 and 20, with a focus on the practice of yoga as part of healing for grief. Emotions like grief are held in our bodies; intentional breath and movement can help provide peace and relief. This series was started during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when so many other griefs were surfacing. This yoga for grief course isn't just for those who have lost a loved one to death. Grief comes through many other events: loss of a job, loss of a dream, ending of a relationship, physical changes, and more. Even life events that we celebrate, such as the birth of a healthy child, can come with surprising griefs. To be human is to grieve.

In the yoga for grief classes, we'll begin with a time of meditation to reconnect with our bodies, and then move into a gentle flow, followed by restorative poses. Participants are welcome to bring an object to their yoga space, such as a photo of a loved one or other special object, that may symbolize grief or remembrance. This yoga class will offer modifications for any level, and while we'll refer to past classes, the classes will each stand alone, so attendance at all is not required.

During this season of change, I invite you to pause and breathe and move with us. Please email me, lisasmithfiegel@gmail.com to register. Suggested donation is $25 per class, some of which will be donated to local hospice programs.

Yoga for Grief will be led by Lisa Smith Fiegel, RYT 200 and ordained Lutheran (ELCA) pastor.