Grieving Insomniacs, a podcast about grief.

In this episode, Cristi Habermann discusses the complexities of grief and the various forms of therapy available to those who are grieving. She emphasizes the importance of understanding what kind of help is needed, the differences between individual therapy and support groups, and the role of licensed therapists in the healing process. Cristi shares her personal experiences and insights on navigating emotions, the challenges of grief, and the importance of vulnerability in seeking support. She also contrasts life coaching with therapy, highlighting the need for professional guidance in the grieving process.TakewaysGrief therapy options include support groups and individual therapy2.Individual therapy can help address personal grief narratives.Support groups provide community and shared experiences.Choosing the right support depends on personal preferences and needs.Vulnerability is essential in the healing process.Grief can trigger lifelong emotional issues.There is no quick fix for grief; it is a journey.Time and support are crucial in navigating grief.https://ahealingplaceforgrief.com/https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/https://www.facebook.com/grievinginsomniacs

#grief, #cancer, #road trip, #personal journey, #podcasting, #mental health, #storytelling, #community, #healing, #self-discoveryIn this episode, host Cristi Habermann shares her personal journey of grief following the loss of her son, Christopher, who passed away after battling cancer. She discusses her plans for a road trip to honor his memory and explore places he wished to visit. Cristi also reflects on her health challenges and the impact of her job on her well-being, expressing a desire to reorganize her life. She shares her intentions to continue the podcast by telling stories of grief and answering questions from listeners, emphasizing the importance of community and support in the healing process.takeawaysCristi is planning a road trip to honor her son.She aims to explore places her son wanted to visit.Health challenges have prompted her to leave her job.The podcast will include storytelling about grief.Cristi is open to sharing listener stories and questions.She acknowledges the support from her podcast audience.The journey is both a personal and healing experience.Cristi is adapting to being on camera for the podcast.She hopes to inspire others through her experiences.The podcast will continue to evolve with new content.

In this episode of Grieving Insomniacs, host Cristi Habermann reflects on the profound impact of loss, particularly the loss of her son, on both emotional and physical health. She discusses the importance of recognizing how grief manifests in the body and introduces somatic therapy as a means to address these physical responses. Cristi emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to grief that includes understanding the connection between emotional pain and physical symptoms, and she explores various somatic techniques and Eastern medicine practices that can aid in the healing process. In this conversation, Cristi Habermann delves into the intricate relationship between grief and the body's energy centers, known as chakras. She discusses how emotional states can manifest physically, particularly in relation to grief and loss. The conversation covers various techniques for processing grief, including somatic therapy, mindful breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, grounding exercises, and the importance of movement and dance. Cristi emphasizes the significance of meditation in calming the mind to facilitate healing and encourages listeners to explore their emotional states through body scanning and yoga. Ultimately, she highlights that grief is a lifelong journey that requires patience and self-compassion.takeaways Grief affects not only emotions but also physical health. Somatic therapy helps in managing emotional pain through the body. Parts therapy suggests that trauma can fragment parts of the self. There is no single way to navigate grief; each person's journey is unique. Understanding where grief resides in the body can aid healing. Chronic illnesses can arise as a result of grief and trauma. Eastern medicine offers valuable insights into body awareness and healing. The chakra system connects emotional issues to physical health. Energy work can help in processing grief and emotional pain. It's important to find personal coping mechanisms that resonate with you. The heart chakra is associated with love and hatred. Grief can lead to physical issues, particularly lung disorders. The throat chakra is crucial for communication and personal expression. The third eye chakra supports intuition and self-evaluation. The crown chakra represents spiritual connections and trust. Somatic grief therapy helps process emotions stored in the body. Mindful breathing reduces anxiety and promotes presence. Progressive muscle relaxation can release stored emotions. Grounding techniques help maintain emotional stability. Movement and dance are effective for processing grief. Healing Through Grief: The Body's Response Understanding Grief: A Journey Through the Body Somatic Therapy: Healing the Body and Mind The Connection Between Grief and Physical Health Navigating Loss: A Holistic Approach to Healing Exploring the Body's Memory of Grief "It's one of the best things I did." "Loss affects our physical body." "Parts of yourself break off." "There's only one way through it." "Where does that feeling live in your body?" "I want to provide tools that you can use." "I can feel who's sad, who they're angry at." "The chakras connect us to our emotional areas." "Mindful breathing can help reduce anxiety." "Stored up emotion becomes disease." "Meditation is a skill like anything else." "Grief is like an onion; we peel one layer." "Grief is a complex, multi-faceted experience." #grief, # loss, #somatic therapy, #emotional health, #physical health, #child loss, #healing, # mental health, #energy work, #coping mechanisms, #heart chakra, #grief, #lung health, #throat chakra, #third eye, #crown chakra, #somatic therapy, #mindful breathing, #progressive muscle #relaxation, #grounding techniques, # movement, #dance, #body scanning, #yoga, #meditation https://ahealingplaceforgrief.com/ https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/

#grief, #ghosting, #grieving insomniacs, #mental health, #coping mechanisms, #support, #loss, #emotional health, #podcast, #healing In this episode of Grieving Insomniacs, host Cristi Habermann shares her personal journey through grief after the loss of her son. She discusses the importance of communication and connection during the grieving process, highlighting the phenomenon of 'ghosting'—when friends and family withdraw support during a time of loss. Cristi emphasizes the emotional turmoil that ghosting can cause and offers insights into coping mechanisms for those who are grieving. The conversation aims to normalize the experience of grief and provide support for listeners who may feel isolated in their sorrow. takeaways Talking about grief is essential for healing. Ghosting can be a painful experience for grievers. Grief is a complex and individual journey. Support from friends and family is crucial during grief. It's important to understand that feelings of grief are valid. People often ghost due to their discomfort with grief. Grief can lead to feelings of abandonment and depression. Coping mechanisms are vital for managing grief. Words can have a profound impact on those who are grieving. Finding a supportive community can aid in the grieving process. Navigating Grief: The Impact of Ghosting Understanding Grief Ghosting and Its Effects "Don't avoid the person." "Be kind to yourself." "Find your people."

In this heartfelt episode of Grieving Insomniacs, host Cristi Habermann shares her personal journey of grief following the loss of her son, Christopher. She reflects on the challenges of navigating life and holidays without him, the impact of grief on family dynamics, and the ongoing struggle with health issues. Cristi emphasizes the importance of acknowledging grief, the complexities of healing, and the need for support during difficult times, especially around the holidays. She also discusses her desire to honor Christopher's memory through her podcast and the significance of sharing stories of loss. Takeaways Grief is a personal journey that varies for everyone. The impact of losing a child extends beyond the individual to family dynamics. Holidays can amplify feelings of loss and absence. It's important to acknowledge and validate feelings of sadness during the holidays. Grief does not have a set timeline; it evolves over time. Sharing stories of loss can foster connection and understanding. Health challenges can bring back memories of lost loved ones. Reflecting on life choices can lead to feelings of regret. Carrying grief means keeping the memory of loved ones alive. Support from others is crucial in navigating grief. Navigating Grief During the Holidays The Unending Journey of Grief "Each year brings different struggles." "I want to do over." "I miss his sarcastic sense of humor." https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/ https://www.facebook.com/grievinginsomniacs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRKjHcMsu1w Christmas Blues https://youtu.be/t0wvBbBijVY Journal with me series episode 2: A Christmas letter to my child.

In this episode of Grieving Insomniacs, host Cristi Habermann shares her personal journey through grief, particularly focusing on the challenges of moving on after the loss of her child, Christopher. She emphasizes the importance of being real about grief, discussing the emotional struggles that come with the holidays, and offering coping strategies for those who are grieving. Cristi highlights the pain of seeing others move on while feeling stuck in grief, and she provides insights on how to navigate the complexities of holiday gatherings while honoring one's own needs and emotions Takeaways Grief is a unique journey that requires honesty. The pain of moving on can be overwhelming. Holidays can trigger deep emotional pain for grievers. It's important to honor your own needs during grief. Isolation can be a coping mechanism for some. Coping strategies include wearing comforting clothing and staying hydrated. It's okay to not feel thankful during Thanksgiving. Grief can manifest in unexpected ways, including physical symptoms. People often minimize the experiences of those who are grieving. Acknowledging sadness is a vital part of the healing process.

In this episode of Grieving Insomniacs, host Cristi Habermann shares her personal journey through grief after the loss of her son. She discusses the challenges of navigating grief during the holiday season, the importance of self-care, and the need for open conversations about loss. Cristi emphasizes that each person's grief journey is unique and encourages listeners to create new traditions that honor their loved ones while also taking care of themselves. Takeaways Cristi started the podcast to share her grief journey. Loss can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. It's important to talk about grief openly. There is no 'how-to' guide for grieving; each journey is unique. Holidays can amplify feelings of grief and sadness. Self-care is crucial during the grieving process. It's okay to opt out of holiday celebrations if needed. Creating new traditions can help in coping with loss. Grief can be triggered by memories and family gatherings. Acknowledging feelings of grief is essential for healing. Navigating Grief: A Journey Through Loss The Importance of Talking About Grief "It's tough during the holidays." "We fake it till we make it." "It's time to make new rules." https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/ https://www.facebook.com/grievinginsomniacs https://ahealingplaceforgrief.com/

In this episode of Grieving Insomniacs, host Cristi Habermann shares her personal journey of grief following the loss of her son. She discusses the concept of gaslighting in the context of grief, where others deny or trivialize the grieving person's reality. Cristi emphasizes the profound impact of grief on her life and the societal pressures that often accompany it. She explores the themes of trivialization, projection, and the importance of self-validation in the grieving process. Throughout the conversation, Cristi offers insights on coping with grief, finding support, and the necessity of setting boundaries with those who may not understand the depth of one's pain.takeaways Grief can profoundly change a person's reality. Gaslighting occurs when others deny the reality of grief. It's essential to validate one's own feelings during grief. Society often imposes unrealistic timelines for grieving. Trivializing grief can be harmful and isolating. Finding a supportive community is crucial for healing. Self-validation is key to coping with grief. Setting boundaries with unsupportive individuals is necessary. Coping with grief is a personal journey that takes time. Healing from grief involves accepting the loss and moving forward. Understanding Grief: The Impact of Loss Coping with Grief: Finding Your Own Path "Gaslighting is denying someone else's reality." "Grief changed everything about me." "Don't deny my reality." keywords: grief, gaslighting, loss, coping, support, mental health, grieving process, emotional pain, self-validation, societal expectations. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Grief and Gaslighting 02:39Understanding Gaslighting in Grief 05:19The Impact of Trivialization and Projection 10:25Navigating Grief and Isolation 15:41Coping Mechanisms and Seeking Support 21:31The Role of Therapy in Grief 27:04Empowerment Through Education and Boundaries 32:03Accepting Grief and Moving Forward https://ahealingplaceforgrief.com/ https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/ https://www.facebook.com/grievinginsomniacs/

https://ahealingplaceforgrief.com https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/ In this episode, Cristi Habermann shares her personal journey through grief after losing a child and discusses the impact of grief on relationships. She explores common fears surrounding divorce after such a loss, the importance of communication and understanding between partners, and the role of forgiveness in healing. Cristi emphasizes the need for coping mechanisms and support systems, and she reflects on how grief can either strengthen or challenge relationships. The conversation concludes with insights on the importance of counseling and the necessity of working through grief before making significant decisions like divorce.takeaways Cristi shares her personal experience of being cancer-free after treatment. Grief can significantly impact relationships, especially after the loss of a child. Many couples fear divorce after losing a child, but it's not inevitable. Differences in grieving styles can lead to conflict in relationships. Forgiveness is crucial for healing after a loss. Expressing grief is essential for emotional health. Support systems play a vital role in coping with grief. The strength of a relationship before the loss can influence its outcome after. Counseling can be beneficial for couples navigating grief together. It's important to take time before making decisions about divorce after a loss. Forgiveness and Healing in Grief The Impact of Grief on Relationship "Does this mean I'm going to get divorced? #grief, #relationships, #divorce, coping mechanisms, forgiveness, support systems, #child loss, emotional health, marriage, mental health

In this conversation, Cristi Habermann delves into the complex emotions surrounding survivor's guilt, particularly in the context of losing a child. She explores the symptoms and implications of survivor's guilt, the concept of moral injury, and the challenges of navigating complicated grief. Cristi emphasizes the importance of self-forgiveness and finding meaning in loss as essential coping strategies. She also discusses the need to incorporate the memory of lost loved ones into daily life as a way to cope with grief and survivor's guilt.takeaways Survivor's guilt is a response to the loss of others. Parents often feel they should have protected their children. Moral injury can exacerbate feelings of survivor's guilt. Complicated grief involves a failure to integrate loss into life. Self-forgiveness is crucial for healing from grief. Finding meaning in loss can help in coping with grief. Grieving parents need support from those who understand their loss. Practicing gratitude can be a powerful coping mechanism. Incorporating memories of lost loved ones into life is important. The experience of losing a child is unique and deeply personal. Transforming Grief into Purpose Incorporating Loss into Daily Life "Why couldn't I have died instead?" "Survivor's guilt comes from a negative evaluation of ourselves." "I had to forgive myself for the things I believed I did wrong." 00:00Understanding Survivor's Guilt 03:07The Impact of Moral Injury 05:55Navigating Complicated Grief 10:11The Role of Self-Forgiveness 16:00Finding Meaning in Loss22:00Incorporating Loss into Life #survivor's guilt, #grief, #moral injury, #complicated grief, #self-forgiveness, #loss, #parenting, #mental health, #coping strategies, #meaning in suffering

In this episode, we explore the often overlooked emotional burden of grief in medical care. Many doctors are trained to treat the physical symptoms of illness but may struggle to fully understand or address the complex emotional and psychological aspects of grief that their patients experience. We'll discuss how the medical system often falls short in supporting those grieving, whether it's after a terminal diagnosis or the loss of a loved one. Cristi Habermann shares personal experiences and stories of how having cancer the same diagnosis her son died from is affecting her healing journey. Cristi discusses both the positive and negative interactions with medical professionals. Secondly, we dive into the importance of being authentic in grief—embracing it fully rather than hiding it away. Together, we explore ways to advocate for better understanding and support from healthcare providers and how patients can assert their need for compassionate care. This episode aims to empower listeners to navigate their grief with authenticity and courage, while also equipping them with the tools to advocate for themselves in medical settings. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or medical professional, this conversation offers insights into bridging the gap between medicine and the human experience of loss. Tune in for a heartfelt and eye-opening episodes that challenges the way we think about grief in healthcare. #grief https://ahealingplaceforgrief.com/ https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/

In this heartfelt episode, we explore the profound and painful journey of a mother diagnosed with cancer, following the loss of her son, Christopher, to the same disease. We delve into the depths of fear, grief, and guilt, and discover how these emotions can shape a desire for a more authentic life. Join us as we discuss the lessons of grief, the resilience of the human spirit, and the strength it takes to navigate such an intense and personal storm. This episode highlights the raw truth of surviving cancer as a grieving mother and the powerful journey toward healing and authenticity." https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/ https://ahealingplaceforgrief.com/

In this episode, we delve into the "Dark Night of the Soul," a term that describes the deep, transformative crisis many people endure during periods of intense grief and major life changes—at the same time, discussing the hiatus in podcast episodes due to life changes. Christopher's birthday and death day have recently passed along with the death of some dear family members. May and June are not months of happiness for our family. This episode aims to provide comfort, and support, to listeners navigating their dark nights, ultimately reminding them that there is light and growth on the other side of their struggles. https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en https://ahealingplaceforgrief.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

Welcome to Grieving Insomniacs the podcast where we explore the raw and real experiences of life, grief, and healing. I'm your host, Cristi Habermann and in today's episode, we're delving into a topic that holds profound significance for many: surviving Mother's Day as a grieving mother. Mother's Day, a day celebrated with joy and love, can also be a source of profound pain for those who have lost a child. For grieving mothers, this day can feel like a relentless reminder of what's been lost, amplifying the ache of absence and the complexity of emotions. In this episode, we will discuss the ways that our past experiences, beliefs, and history can impact how grieving mothers survive Mother's Day. We'll explore the various ways in which this day can evoke a spectrum of emotions, from sorrow and longing to peace. Through candid conversations and heartfelt reflections, we'll shed light on the unique challenges that grieving mothers face during this time and offer insights into how to honor and remember their children amidst the sea of Mother's Day celebrations. Whether you're a grieving mother seeking solace and understanding or someone looking to support a grieving loved one, this episode aims to provide comfort, solidarity, and a sense of community. So, join us as we embark on this journey of remembrance, resilience, and renewal. This is Grief Reflections: Navigating Mother's Day as a Grieving Mother." --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

Today marks my granddaughter's 13th birthday, a day etched with profound significance in my son's tumultuous journey. It ranks as one of the toughest days he ever faced, second only to the heart-wrenching news of a cancer diagnosis on his 25th birthday. My granddaughter, just three months old when he passed away, remains a poignant symbol of love and loss in our family's narrative. For many years, I found myself estranged from her family, unable to partake in the joyous moments of her growing up. Not once have I had the opportunity to celebrate her birthday in person. Instead, this day acts as a precursor to the crescendo of grief that peaks on June 19th, laden with anniversary dates and haunting memories. With each passing year, the burden of navigating through this emotional terrain grows heavier. In this episode, I contemplate what I would convey to my granddaughter if she were to unexpectedly appear at my doorstep on her 18th birthday. I grapple with the complexities of absence, longing to bridge the chasm that separates us, yearning for the chance to share in her milestones. It pains me to acknowledge that my experience is not singular. Many grandparents find themselves distanced from their grandchildren following the loss of their children. I wish this were not a topic I needed to podcast about, yet here we are. Join me in this conversation, and share your thoughts on this journey of grief and separation. Also, listen to "In the beginning there was death." Episode 1 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

I've returned following an unintentional hiatus of a month. In this episode, I delve into a recent discussion I had with friends regarding the dynamics of friendships. Through this conversation, I realized that the experience of grief has altered the way I perceive these relationships. I find myself not feeling as intimately connected to people as I once did, and this extends to my relationships with family members. Has this happened to you? Let's talk about it on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en and on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/grievinginsomniacs/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

Grief triggers can sneak up on you when you least expect it, catching you off guard. In my recent experience, one such trigger catapulted me back to the day right after Christopher passed away. As I found myself navigating the memories and emotions of that moment, it hit me – grief is not a hurdle to overcome; it's a lifelong journey. Join me in this week's episode as I share the raw and real details of riding the wave of grief. https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en https://cristihabermann.com/home/grieving-insomniacs-podcast/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

The onset of a new year typically results in the creation of resolutions. Everywhere you turn, there are news articles, blog posts, and memes echoing the sentiment of a "new year, new you." However, for those grappling with grief, this season proves to be challenging. Each new year signifies another year without their cherished ones, a continuous stream of memories left unmade due to the absence of their loved ones. Navigating the transition from one year to the next becomes a formidable task. For our journaling prompt this year, let's explore abstaining from resolutions in 2024. What would it entail to concentrate on living in the present amidst the throes of grief? Could you awaken each day and immerse yourself in every moment? Cast aside any diet plans or intentions to alter your identity. Instead, focus on being fully present as you are and granting yourself the space to grieve without constraint. #grieving #grievingmom #grievingmomsforever #griefstagram #griefneverends #grievingmother #griefneverends #griefawareness #griefhurts #grievingprocess #grievingoutloud #grievingpodcast #grievingjourney #grievingason #griefislifechanging #grievingparent #griefsupport #grief #grievingmother #amothersgrief #griefclub #podcastersofinstagram #griefandhealing #griefandgratitude #griefandlosssupport #griefandloss #grievingmom #grieving #griefjourney #gettingrealaboutgrief https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en www.cristihabermann.com   --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

n the midst of last week's reflective journaling exercise, I unearthed a profound realization about my struggle to embrace joy during the holiday season. The overwhelming sense of disloyalty I feel towards my departed child casts a shadow over my Christmas celebrations. Join me as I unveil the journey of self-discovery that led to this insight, delving into the methods I employed to navigate these emotions while journaling. Moreover, I share invaluable coping strategies from this process, offering solace amidst the emotional turmoil. Looking ahead, the upcoming prompt beckons us to either pen a heartfelt Christmas letter addressed to our cherished departed child or leverage the newfound wisdom gleaned from our introspective journaling expedition. I would love to hear what you learned if you want to share with me at https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

Journaling is one of the most helpful ways I have found to cope with my grief journey. When our feelings and minds are confused and full of sadness it can be hard to decide on where to start. Sometimes we need a helping hand. This is why I created the Journal with me series. Each week we will use a prompt to get us started in our grief journal. This week's prompt is what I am missing about my child at Christmas. Write for at least one page and 1/5 without checking your grammar or spelling. Keep writing until you feel like you have said everything you need to say. If you cry, write through your tears. As you write you will have an insight into yourself. This will be your topic for the next journal entry. Trust the process and trust yourself. Your mind and body will lead you to where you need to go to better cope with your grief. Feel free to share your insights with me on Instagram.https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

This week's podcast does not have a theme or a particular message. It is more random thoughts and experiences from the week surrounding thoughts about death, dying, and particularly grief at Thanksgiving. I realized this week that we live in a society that does not allow anyone to be sad. It seems like sadness is being equated with depression and as such is being treated as a mental illness. Sadness is not the same as depression. As I moved through the week toward a holiday that is not particularly friendly or welcoming to grieving people; I began to think about death and dying. When I think of Christopher my concerns over how he died are never far away and in my opinion perfectly normal. As you listen to the podcast today, I hope it helps normalize any thoughts or experiences you had surrounding Thanksgiving that you hide from others. We are all on this journey of grief together but separately. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

The message "The dark night of the soul" popped into my head when I was thinking about an appropriate topic for the Thanksgiving holiday podcast. In researching, I found several references to the Dark Night of the Soul. One was from Dr. Gerald May, and the other was from Eckhart Tolle. I will link both of them below. As I explored the concept of the Dark Night of the Soul, I realized that the holidays symbolize the dark side of my grief and the dark side of my emotions. As I made these connections I wondered what these three things: The dark night of the soul, the dark side of grief, and the dark side of one's personality have in common that they would present themselves as a topic for a holiday podcast. The answer is that the concepts of the "dark night of the soul," the dark side of grief, and the dark side of your personality share common themes around intense and challenging experiences that involve deep introspection, struggle, and transformation. The dark night of the soul refers to a spiritual crisis where a person loses their identity and their connection to who they are along with their connection to what they believe. The dark side of grief refers to the intense and painful emotions experienced during mourning. This can include anger, guilt, depression, and a sense of disorientation or lack of direction in life following a significant loss. The dark side of grief involves grappling with the depth of pain and sorrow associated with loss. The dark side of personality refers to aspects of one's character or psyche that are typically hidden, repressed, or less socially acceptable. These aspects may include traits such as aggression, jealousy, selfishness, or other negative behaviors that can emerge in certain situations. Understanding and integrating these darker aspects of the personality is often part of psychological growth and self-awareness. This time of darkness from Thanksgiving to March symbolizes rest and restoration for nature. When spring comes the land, animals, and plants will be refreshed and renewed with new growth. In our grief, we can take this same time to use it to go within ourselves to understand our grief, find our purpose, and begin anew again after the holidays and into spring. https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Night-Soul-Psychiatrist-Connection/dp/0060750553 https://eckharttolle.com/eckhart-on-the-dark-night-of-the-soul/ https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

In today's episode of "Grieving Insomniacs," we delve into why grief can become particularly overwhelming during Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving serves as a poignant symbol of all that we have lost. It revolves around the concept of family, cherished traditions, and shared meals—a living embodiment of a Norman Rockwell painting. For a grieving mother, this holiday is a time of mourning for those who are absent. If you have any understanding of grief, it's important to recognize that the holidays can act as potent triggers for intense emotions in grieving mothers. In this episode, we explore how feelings of sadness and joy often coexist, occurring simultaneously. We emphasize that whatever emotions you may be experiencing are valid. Join us as we engage in a discussion on this complex interplay of emotions during the holiday season. https://cristihabermann.com/home/grieving-insomniacs-podcast/ https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

Summer has now turned to fall in the frozen north. Very quickly after Halloween, the first significant snowfall of the season will occur. Winter will move in and it becomes a time of reflection. This year has me reflecting on how my grief has changed over the years. The holidays are always difficult. In the 11 years since becoming a grieving mom, I have learned the importance of assessing my own ability to cope with the holidays. In the podcast today I talk about how our emotional health, mental health, and physical health can and do impact our grieving. Having traditions is critical to surviving the holidays. In this episode, I share some of my traditions with you. https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en https://cristihabermann.com/home/grieving-insomniacs-podcast/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

In today's episode, I share everything I wish non-grieving people knew about grief. 1. After the death of a child the life you knew before that moment is over. 2. Grief is solitary and lonely. 3. Grief destroys relationships and your health. 4. There is no way to escape grief. You dream about it. Feel it and think about it all of the time. Please share with me what you wish people knew about grief. https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/grievinginsomniacs --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

In today's episode, we delve into the subject of Tonkin's Model of Grief. When exploring various grief theories through a Google search, Tonkin's Model of Grief may appear as a potential option. However, it is essential to clarify that Tonkin's model primarily pertains to the experience of parental loss, specifically the loss of a child, and emphasizes the process of adapting and growing while carrying the weight of grief. Therefore, it is not entirely accurate to categorize it as a comprehensive grief theory. This distinction holds significance because numerous online sources erroneously label Tonkin's model as a theoretical framework. In the realm of academic discourse, a genuine theory is founded on rigorous scientific evidence and offers a systematic framework for comprehending facets of the human condition, including grief. Mislabeling models as theories can lead to misconceptions and misapplications. Furthermore, we explore the transformative influence of social media on the experiences of grieving mothers. The digital landscape has emerged as a catalyst for social change, where each narrative shared and every grief-related meme disseminated contributes to the creation of a supportive and empathetic community. This communal sharing of grief narratives has facilitated a societal shift, making it more acceptable today than a decade ago to openly acknowledge enduring grief over a lifetime, a stark contrast to the era when grief was often concealed and unspoken. https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en www.cristihabermann.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

In today's episode, we discuss how to determine whether a counselor is going to meet your needs for grief counseling. This podcast episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for individuals who are seeking support and guidance through the complex journey of choosing a grief therapist. We explore various aspects of what makes a grief counselor a good match for the grief counseling process. We discuss helping listeners understand how to select the right counselor who can provide the support and assistance they need during this challenging time. We cover these topics in today's episodes: 1. How to complete an interview with a therapist that you want to hire to assist you with your grief. 2. What is a theoretical orientation and why does it matter? 3. How to inquire about what type of style the therapist uses to assist clients? 4. Which methods of counseling do they use? 5. Which grief theory models do they use to assist clients? 6. The difference between life coaching, counseling, and peer support. Leave me a message on Spotify letting me know if you like the new style of podcast or prefer the story telling style. Thanks for listening. https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en https://cristihabermann.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

Welcome to another episode of Grieving Insomniacs, the podcast where we explore the complex journey of grief and healing. In today's episode, we'll delve into the Dual Process Model of grief. In this episode we break the Dual Process Model down into its key components. Developed by Margaret Stroebe and Henk Schut in the 1990s, this model suggests that grieving individuals oscillate between two primary processes: loss-oriented and restoration-oriented activities. We'll explore how these processes are like two sides of a coin, each playing a crucial role in helping individuals adapt to their new reality. Loss-oriented activities involve directly confronting the emotional pain associated with the loss. On the other hand, restoration-oriented activities focus on the practical aspects of life, like work, relationships, and daily routines. The Dual Process Model hypothesizes that finding a balance between these two processes in grief helps people cope with grieving. We discuss the pros and cons of this model in the loss of a child. Additionally, we discuss how a therapist might guide someone who lost a child through grief using this model. Bio: I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I needed community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the suffering of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here, and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com We hope you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

Welcome back to another episode of Grieving Insomaniacs. Today we have a profound and essential topic: Continuing Bonds in Grief Therapy. Continuing Bonds as a way to navigate grief was developed by Phyllis Silverman, Dennis Glass, and Steven Nickman in their book Continuing Bonds, New Understanding of Grief. This theory states that instead of severing our connection to our deceased loved ones, we find ways to continue the relationship. Some practical examples of how to incorporate this theory in your own grief experience are provided. Our host, Cristi Habermann shares how she used this theory to develop her relationship to her son through the use of memories and imagination. Join us in our discovery that grief doesn't have to be an ending but it can be a path to new beginnings. The link to their books is below. https://www.amazon.com/Continuing-Bonds-Understandings-Education-Health/dp/1560323396/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2CVAA6H10D3JH&keywords=continuing+bonds+new+understandings+of+grief&qid=1694366000&sprefix=continuing+bonds%2Caps%2C140&sr=8-1 https://cristihabermann.com/home/grieving-insomniacs-podcast/ https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

In today's episode, we dive deep into the profound impact of unfinished farewells and the complex emotions that come with not getting the chance to say goodbye. Life often interferes with our ability to say goodbye, leaving us with unsaid words, unexpressed feelings, and a longing for closure. Your host Cristi Habermann explores the impact of the weight of unfinished business with the untimely death of her son, and other relatives. In her attempt to seek closure for herself, she shares tips on how to navigate the transition of death. Cristi learned how to develop a connection with her son through the love they shared and memories. Listen in as she shares what she has learned in this podcast. "Death is but a transition from this life to a shared connection of love and memories. " Biography: Cristi was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I needed community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com We hope that you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

I had a grief nightmare last night that sent me on a quest to research them. In the podcast today I discuss what areas of the brain are active when we sleep that are involved in dreams and nightmares. Nightmares occur during REM sleep. We have about four cycles of REM sleep a night. The longer we sleep the longer the REM cycles last which results in more nightmares and dreams in the early mornings. Several things can cause nightmares such as stress, medical disorders, medications, and bereavement. Using my dream as an example we walk through how to use the information obtained in the dreams to highlight areas that need attention in our lives. Our dreams and nightmares are often symbolic of our past experiences and current stressors combined with the current moment. Using these symbolic messages we can learn to cope with the nightmares. Several techniques are discussed for coping with nightmares. One technique is practicing an alternative outcome to the situation. A second technique is coping with the emotions that are triggered by the nightmares. Finally, use all the information from your nightmares to help you find a path to resolve the conflict or experience that is interfering with your sleep. Listen in and let me know what you think. https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message.⁠ Biography: I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I need community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories with each other creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com It is our hope that you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

Any Google search on grief will display multiple types of grief, from the loss of a job to the break up of a relationship to the loss of a loved one. All these grief experiences are different, and we need to quit discussing them as if they are the same. In today's episode, I discuss all the reasons why the loss of a job is not similar to the loss of a child. My first reason is the physiological response after the loss of a child is significantly different than when you lose a job. The second reason is that the brain changes in response to the traumatic loss of a child. The second reason is that putting all grief types in the same category ensures that a therapist or other professional will treat them as all the same. This is why grieving mothers become so frustrated with therapists who minimize their grief. It is because they believe it is the same. We can change this by telling your story. Come on the podcast and be a part of the change by telling your grief story. Contact me at grieving insomniacs on Facebook or Instagram. Biography: I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I need community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com We hope that you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

Validation is when you accept someone's emotions and experiences. How many times have you heard someone say "It's time to get over your grief?" This is an invalidation of your grief experience. There are messages everywhere about grief, and how people are to respond to grief especially when it comes to losing a child. Most of these messages are invalidating. Why do we care? Because when a person feels invalidated they question their reality and start thinking something is wrong with them. When the truth is nothing is wrong with them. This invalidation can worsen the grief a person is experiencing and can lead to worsening emotional health. Validation matters. Validation is when someone feels confirms a person's emotional experience even when they don't UNDERSTAND the experience. The grief after the loss of a child is hard to understand. There are physical, emotional, and cognitive changes to the person experiencing it. The beauty of it is a person doesn't need to understand it to validate a person's experience. A simple "I hear what you are saying." "I see that you are sad" is all that is needed to validate someone's grief. Silence is validating too. Just being present can sometimes be enough. Listen in to more tips and get a better understanding of validation and grief. Biography: I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed, and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I needed community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com We hope you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

I attended a family reunion for my father's 80th birthday party this week. I was excited to see family and spend time with them. I did not expect to have my grief triggered by being with family. I was naive about my own grief and grief triggers. I tend to feel my grief as physical symptoms therefore, I was more tired than usual which led to irritability. After my experience, I want to share some times in hopes you can avoid being triggered as I was. First of all, expect to be triggered. Second: Have an escape plan for when you are triggered. Third: Be honest about your grief. Fourth: Surround yourself with emotionally safe people. Lastly, You are not responsible for managing other people's grief or emotions surrounding the loss of your child. Biography: I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I need community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories with each other creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com It is our hope that you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

How you grieve can be affected by your attachment style? An attachment style is related to how a person connects to their primary caregiver as an infant. There are four types of attachment. 1. secure 2. anxious 3. anxious-avoidant, 4. avoidant. John Bowlby, an attachment researcher, and theorist, wrote in his book Attachment and Loss that our attachment system becomes activated in our grief. We use our attachment system to cope with adversity and cope with our grief. Listen in as we discuss his theory and how it relates to your attachment style. Take the quiz below to find out what attachment style you have. My results were as I thought. I am part anxious, part avoidance, and part secure. Take your quiz here https://www.npr.org/2022/02/09/1079587715/whats-your-attachment-style-quiz https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/ https://www.facebook.com/grievinginsomniacs https://cristihabermann.com/home/grieving-insomniacs-podcast/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

Grieving is confusing. Your feelings are all mixed up into one ugly ball of pain. It can be challenging to move out of the emotional pain into acceptance. Many people believe that to remember their loved one they have to have pain. This is not the case. You can move to a place of acceptance of the grief and having grief be a significant part of your life without pain. When our love is great, so are our memories. When you find yourself feeling stuck in your grief, find ways to have a connection with your deceased loved one. Use your imagination. Your signs from your loved one are different than everyone else's. It all depends on what you believe and on what your memories of your loved one are. Grief is a journey into ourselves. We learn to accept that we will grieve a lifetime once we accept ourselves as grieving people. Much love and acceptance to you as you listen. Reach out to me on Instagram, Facebook, or email. Bio: Cristi Habermann was living the average life. She was married with two children working in a profession that she loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and she became another person. Her oldest son died unexpectedly. Her son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but she didn't know that then. She thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately she felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. She believed she should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. She felt alone. She developed insomnia and the people around her began to disappear. She wanted to develop a grieving community. 10 years later She put this believe into practice and started the Grieving Insomniacs podcast where she is trying to build a community. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories with each other creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com It is our hope that you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message. https://cristihabermann.com/home/grieving-insomniacs-podcast/ https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/ https://www.facebook.com/grievinginsomniacs --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

Kia, the wonder dog is getting ready to cross the Rainbow Bridge. She has been my best friend, supporter, and grief companion since Christopher died. His death anniversary is on June 19, 2023. As we approach that day, the nightmares increase, and so does my sadness. Kia has been the one who gets up with me at night when I can't sleep. As June 19, moves closer I wonder if she will make it to that day. She is 13 years old and lived a good life. I just wonder what I am going to do without her. I, also, wondered about the meaning of her dying so close to Christopher's death day. I don't want to say I celebrate the day Christopher died, but it is a day that impacts me every year. I honor his memories, his life, and my love for him. Please understand that all grievers' have similar difficulties on death anniversaries. Be kind. Be understanding. Biography I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I need community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories with each other creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com It is our hope that you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message. https://cristihabermann.com/home/grieving-insomniacs-podcast/ https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/grievinginsomniacs --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

I took the week off because Christopher's birthday was last week. I spent my time recharging and re-engaging in the grief talk. In today's episode, I discuss Complicated Grief Disorder. What are the symptoms and why they created this disorder in the first place? In all mental health treatment diagnosis drives payment and treatment. It used to be that insurance would not pay for grief counseling. Now, there is a disorder called Complicated Grief Disorder. I have some thoughts about this disorder as a Grieving Mother, which I share in the podcast. We discuss coping with grief and how to help someone feel better when grieving. Biography I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I need community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories with each other creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/grievinginsomniacs https://cristihabermann.com/home/grieving-insomniacs-podcast/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

May 27th, 2023 is Christopher's 37th birthday. It is the day I became a mother so many years ago. Now it is a day that brings both sadness and happiness. I am happy that I can remember Christopher and all the joy he brought to my life. But, I am also sad because he is dead. The nightmares have started as my brain tries to cope with the feelings that always run underneath my thoughts this time of year. I often wish I could see him as he would have been at 37 years old. How would he look? How would I be if he hadn't died? These thoughts and much more race through my mind. Concentrating the closer it gets to Saturday will become harder and harder. I become more irritable and sad. There is no cure. I can only get through it. In addition, to his birthday May 27th is the day he found out he had Hodgekins Lymphoma stage 3 B. It is the last day I talked to him. He died three weeks later on June 19, 2011. Listen in as I talk about how I survive the next three weeks. https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=enhttps:// www.facebook.com/grievinginsomniacs/ https://cristihabermann.com/home/grieving-insomniacs-podcast/ Biography: I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I need community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories with each other creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

Listen to today's episode of Grieving Insomniacs. It has rained for the last five days here. I wonder if Mother Nature knows that the world is full of grieving mothers that will be crying tomorrow. In the episode, I discuss the family dynamics of being a grieving mother. Christopher was my first-born son and when he was born my family was created. When he died the feeling of being in a family died with him. My children had all left home and I was alone again. I have been isolated from my family of origin for most of my adult life. My feelings of loneliness and isolation increase on most major holidays including Mother's Day. This year I did it differently and showed up for myself. I bought myself flowers and talked about how grateful I am that I have listeners. I have people show up every week to hear my grieving stories. I appreciate each and every one of you, especially on Mother's Day. https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/grievinginsomniacs https://cristihabermann.com/home/grieving-insomniacs-podcast/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

In this episode of Grieving Insomniacs, we discuss Bereaved Mother's Day and Mother's Day. Do you wonder how you are going to cope with that day? Listen in as we discuss how to cope with our feelings and emotions surrounding the loss of our children. It is one of the most stressful holidays for a grieving mom. The first and most crucial coping technique is to take care of yourself. This may mean staying home alone or taking extra time to have a cup of coffee/tea before the day starts. Buy your own bouquet of flowers. Don't have expectations of other people. Don't over-schedule yourself. These are just a few ideas. Do you have some of your own ideas? Leave a message here.https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message and tell me about it. Biography:www.cristihabermann.com I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I need community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories with each other creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com It is our hope that you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. https://www.instagram.com/grievinginsomniacs/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/grievinginsomniacs/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

On today's episode of Grieving Insomniacs, I discuss how painful small talk can be while you are grieving. I used to be this outgoing person making friends everywhere I went before Christopher died. The most painful social interaction after he died was meeting new people, who asked within minutes of meeting you "How many children do you have?" I dislike this question so much. I will do almost anything to avoid it. I am not sure whether it is because I don't want to deal with their reactions when they ask it or my feelings when they ask it. Either way, it is painful. Here at Grieving Insomniacs, we are trying to change the social norms surrounding grief. One of the social norms that are most in need of change is asking someone how many children they have. If we understood the pain, and heartache that this question causes for so many people, would we stop asking it? Of course, we would. Let's start now. The next time you meet someone connect with them in a different way. I, also discuss someways to cope with how to answer the question of "How many children do you have?" in this episode. Biography: The Grieving Insomaniacs Podcast is available on Anchor, Google Podcasts, and Spotify. I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I need community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories with each other creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com It is our hope that you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

On today's episode of Grieving Insomniacs, we interview Angie Hanson of Butterflies and Halos. Angie is a grieving mom and widower who lost her brother to cancer. All of these deaths occurred in a short amount of time. Angie became frustrated with the greeting cards currently available about grief. She had been looking for a way to give back to the grieving community. She found her purpose in creating grieving greeting cards. We talk about grief, including her favorite saying "Always better together". https://butterfliesandhalos.com/ https://www.etsy.com/shop/ButterfliesandHalos?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1230500042 https://cristihabermann.com/home/grieving-insomniacs-podcast/ Bio: I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I need community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories with each other creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com It is our hope that you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

Meditate with me in this week's episode. I wrote this meditation years ago early on in my grief. I missed the physical feeling of Christopher so much. I missed his hugs. I missed where I fit into his shoulder when he hugged me. I missed the smell of him. It was an ache that was deep and unrelenting. This meditation helped me focus on a specific memory of him hugging me. Using all our senses we re-create the physical and emotional connection to our loved ones. Listen in and meditate with me. Biography I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I need community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories with each other creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. My mission for the podcast is to provide grieving mothers everywhere with a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com It is our hope that you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

Today our podcast is about trust. Before my son died I moved through the world trusting that things would work out. That any problem that came my way could be solved. After Christopher died, I don't believe that anymore. I don't trust people. I don't trust that things will be okay. I plain don't trust in anything. This causes a problem though because I find myself isolated from people, events, and the world. I have not found a way to move beyond fear. I want to learn how to take a risk. In the podcast, I discuss how this lack of trust shows up in my life. I also, want to know do you struggle with trusting others after your child died. Do you struggle with taking risks and trusting in a positive outcome? Please dm me and let me know. I would really like to know is that a struggle for everyone or just me. Thanks for listening. I appreciate everyone that shows up every week to listen. Biography I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I need community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories with each other creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com It is our hope that you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

On today's episode of Grieving Insomniacs, I discuss finding your pathway through grief. Your pathway is simply what you use to help you cope with your grief. The pathway consists of the tools you use to navigate. I used the following quote as a metaphor “And once the storm is over, you won't remember how you made it through, how you managed to survive. You won't even be sure, whether the storm is really over. But one thing is certain. When you come out of the storm, you won't be the same person who walked in." by Haruki Murakami to describe the pathway. One thing that we guaranteed in grief is that we are moving through a storm. Your pathway can be how you navigate speaking with people about your deceased loved one. It can be how you chose to remember them. No matter how you chose your pathway it can shelter you from the storm at least temporarily. There are times in grief when we need that break. I also, talk about judgment in grief. Grievers receive enough judgment from non-grievers that we don't need judgment in our community. Please, please be kind. Grieving Insomniacs is an inclusive podcast. All are welcome here. Biography I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I needed community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com We hope that you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

The question I most frequently receive from listeners is how do I get signs from Christopher? The answer is a belief that I can and lots of practice. Several paranormal experiences shaped my belief system surrounding supernatural events as a young child. I was an avid reader throughout my life and fantasy has always been a top favorite. I was watching Ghost Adventures, and Ghost Hunters long before Christopher died. The morning after Christopher died I was googling how to see an orb. I made the decision that day that I was going to find a way to talk to him. In the podcast, I describe what this journey looked like for me. It began with reading anything I could get my hand on the paranormal. I began journaling and meditating. I had a journal where I documented all of my Christopher signs. Listen in as I give more tips on how to connect and strengthen your belief system in getting signs from your loved ones. Biography I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I need community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community I desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories with each other creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com It is our hope that you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

It occurred to me this week that it is difficult to watch my son's friends move on with their lives when Christopher's life has ended. Christopher had a core group of friends that have gotten married, had children and moved on with their lives. This activated my grief again realizing that Christopher will never have these experiences. For those non-grievers out there it is critical that you understand that mourning what he didn't get to experience is as important as mourning him. I can not possibly move on with my grief. When he died the opportunity to grow in my relationship with him ended. I will never be a grandmother to his children. I will never see what he would have looked like at 35, 45, or 50 years old. I grieve these things as much as I grieve his death. As a culture let's move beyond the concept that moving on from grief is the goal and instead accept that grief is our lifelong companion. Listen in as we discuss in more depth how to accept that we have not moved on nor do we need to. Biography I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I need community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories with each other creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com It is our hope that you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

Thank you, Thank you to everyone that listens to my podcast. I couldn't have done this year without you. There were many times I didn't feel like I was doing any good by recording, but then someone would reach out and say "your podcast helps me." That has always been my goal. I wanted to help people feel like they were not alone in their grief. Coping with grief is easier when a person feels understood in their community. We have created a community here in our corner of the internet. Thanks for being here. If you are interested in coming on the podcast, email me at grievinginsomniacs@gmail.com. Send me a message on Instagram @grievinginsomniacs or on Facebook at Grieving Insomniacs. I was living the average life. I was married with two children working in a profession that I loved. On June 19. 2011 that life was destroyed and I became another person. My oldest son died unexpectedly. My son did not die from cancer. Chemotherapy killed him. It is a common experience, but I didn't know that then. I thought that chemotherapy was going to save him. Almost immediately I felt betrayed by my profession because I was a counselor. I should have known how to handle his death. The loneliness started almost immediately. I felt so alone. I stopped sleeping and the people around me began to disappear. I knew I need community. 10 years later I am finally in a place where I am trying to build the community that I so desperately needed when Christopher first died. We can't change that our children died, but we can help each other through it. Join me in creating a community for grieving mothers to share our stories with each other creating a sacred space for authentic grieving. It is my mission for the podcast to provide grieving mothers everywhere a safe, sacred space where their grief is accepted. It is through the podcast that the culture of silence that surrounds the grief of the mother will be dismantled, and a culture of support will be created. It is our vision to create a community where we can share our questions, and concerns, and support each other. I am here and I am listening. I am honored to hear your story. https://wordpress.com/view/grievinginsomniacs.wordpress.com It is our hope that you will like and subscribe to get regular updates on our show. If you have questions or concerns, send us a message at grievinginsomiacs@gmail.com or leave us a message at https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

It's the year anniversary of Grieving Insomniacs on Feb 28, 2023. My first episode was published on 2/28/2022. To celebrate I am doing a giveaway of Beats Studio Buds. To enter the giveaway, please like my Instagram page Grieving Insomniacs and answer the question in the podcast. After listening to the podcast and answering the question, please send me a private message on Instagram saying done. I will draw a name from everyone that enters the giveaway and announce it on Feb. 28, 2023. In the podcast today, we are discussing whether we can prepare for grief waves. Grief is often triggered by environmental events and can come crashing in often referred to as waves. These waves are uncontrollable and frequently take us by surprise. For me, these grief waves are often associated with death anxiety. I define death anxiety as fearing that someone is going to die at any moment from anything. But, especially from medical procedures. Death anxiety is not something I see talked about very much in grief. Death anxiety has become a trigger for my own grief waves. Ways to cope with death anxiety are discussed in the podcast and knowing that acceptance of death is one of those ways to cope. The question to answer for the giveaway is do you have death anxiety? If you are listening on a different platform than Spotify, leave me a message here: https://anchor.fm/grievinginsomniacs/message or you can include your answer in the dm you send on Instagram saying done. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message

This week I had a profoundly spiritual experience with my deceased son. Music has been my go-to for feeling expression when I didn't have the words or when I was in a place where I could not express my feelings. In the podcast, I go into detail about a bad day because a little bit more bearable through music. I have always believed that my son communicates with me through music. As I was listening to the music I could see him in my mind's eye supporting me. As you listen to this podcast, think about the music you listen to. Does it speak to you? Does it bring back memories of your loved one? If it does, intensify those feelings and memories. Over time just the sound of the music will provide those feelings for you. Feb. 27, 2023, is the one-year anniversary of the podcast. I will be doing a giveaway next week for all the podcast listeners. Tune in to next week's episode to hear all the details. I have some links to amazon products that I use to listen to the podcast over on Facebook at Grieving Insomniacs. I do receive a small commission if you purchase the product. There is a Grieving Insomniacs playlist on Youtube. One playlist is meditations that I enjoy and the second one is music that reminds me of Christopher. Go on over to Youtube and listen to the music playlist. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/grievinginsomniacs/message