

Death on the Daily
Tanya Wilkinson
Let's bring the conversation about death out of the shadows and into the mainstream, where it belongs.
Podcast hosted by bereaved mother, coach and death doula, Tanya Wilkinson
Podcast hosted by bereaved mother, coach and death doula, Tanya Wilkinson
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 17, 2026 • 13min
Starry night sky: Guided meditation for deep relaxation
This guided meditation invites you into deep relaxation through a gentle body connection practice inspired by the starry night sky. As you are guided through each part of your body, you’ll visualise a star shining brightly, helping you soften, ground, and reconnect with yourself.This meditation supports nervous system regulation, body awareness and creating a sense of safety within. This practice is especially supportive if you are:- Feeling exhausted or anxious due to grief- Feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or disconnected- Looking for a calming body scan meditation- Seeking deep relaxation or a meditation for sleep- Wanting to feel safe, present, and at home in your bodyYou can listen lying down or seated comfortably. Allow yourself to be guided, moving at your own pace, and resting wherever you need.If this meditation supports you, please like, subscribe, or share it with someone who might need a moment of rest under the stars.Are you journeying with grief? Download my FREE Grief, Grace & Growth journaling ebook here: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-grace-growth-journalDisclaimer: This content is for entertainment and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice.This practice invites gentle awareness of your body. Before you begin, check in with yourself and see whether it feels right for you to do this meditation today. You know yourself best - trust what feels right for you.This meditation is not a substitute for professional mental health care. Follow Death on the Daily:* Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel @deathonthedaily * Share this meditation with a friend who might need it. * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily * YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily This meditation is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.com

Jan 13, 2026 • 16min
Why avoiding grief makes it worse
In this episode I explore why avoiding grief can feel more overwhelming than actually allowing ourselves to feel it - especially in busy, modern lives.I share how grief avoidance can be deeply dysregulating to the nervous system, activating our fight, flight, or freeze response - and why this makes grief feel even heavier over time.Drawing from my personal experience of baby loss as a bereaved mother, as well as in my grief coaching work, I offer a gentle, practical approach to creating space for grief - even when time feels scarce. You’ll be guided through a simple four-step “Grief Cocoon” practice designed to help you feel, process, and tend to your grief in as little as 5 minutes a day.Are you journeying with grief?JOIN GRIEF COCOON, my new monthly virtual event - a sacred space for grief in busy lives: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-cocoonDOWNLOAD MY FREE Grief, Grace & Growth journaling ebook: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/newsletter WATCH MY PLAYLIST of guided meditations for grief, rest and renewal here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiEBSnX0OXjtA TakeawaysGrief can be more dysregulating when avoided than when faced.Creating space for grief is essential for processing emotions.Societal conditioning often leads to the avoidance of grief.Naming feelings helps in moving grief from the amygdala to the prefrontal cortex.Listening to our needs during grief is crucial for self-care.Cocooning in grief allows for transformation and healing.There is no timeline for grief; it's a personal journey.Practicing self-care can support our nervous system during grief.Engaging in rituals can help in processing grief.Being present with grief can deepen our connections and purpose.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Access my playlist of guided meditations for grief, rest and renewal here:https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLiEBSnX0OXjtA Follow Death on the Daily:Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel @deathonthedaily Share this episode with a friend who might need it. Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedailyYouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedailyFind out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.ukThis episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comThe theme music for Death on the Daily is Set Free by Katie Gray, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here https://www.katiegray.com Chapters:00:00: Navigating Grief in a Busy World05:57: Creating Your Grief Cocoon12:05: The Journey of Grief and Healing

Dec 16, 2025 • 23min
Winter Solstice journaling ritual for grief and growth
In this episode of 'Death on the Daily', I, Tanya Wilkinson am exploring the Winter Solstice and its themes of death, grief and deep rest. Looking at the importance of rest, reflection, and honouring our grief. Discussing how the solstice symbolises both the longest night and the return of light, encouraging you to embrace the darkness as a necessary part of personal growth and transformation. Through journaling prompts, you are invited to let go of what no longer serves you and to welcome new intentions as you move forward into the new year.Are you journeying with grief?Download my FREE Grief, Grace & Growth journaling ebook: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/newsletter JOIN GRIEF COCOON, my new monthly virtual event - a sacred space for grief in busy lives:https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-cocoonKey takeawaysThe Winter Solstice represents a descent into the void.Rest and letting go are essential for personal growth.Nature teaches us the importance of honoring seasonal cycles.Grief is a natural part of life and transformation.Journaling can help in processing grief and intentions.The solstice symbolizes both endings and new beginnings.We must prioritize rest in our busy lives.Light returns after the longest night, symbolizing hope.Personal growth requires letting go of the past.Embracing the darkness can lead to deeper self-understanding.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel @deathonthedaily Share this episode with a friend who might need it. Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedailyYouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedailyFind out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.ukThis episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comThe theme music for Death on the Daily is Set Free by Katie Gray, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here https://www.katiegray.com Chapters00:00: What is the Winter Solstice and how can we Embrace it?12:54: Winter Solstice Journaling for Grief, Growth and Transformation

Dec 5, 2025 • 57min
Finding safety while grieving loss and change with Kayleigh O'Connor
I am joined today by Kayleigh O'Connor, Holistic Grief Coach and founder of Good Grief where she trains other grief coaches including me. We explore the complexities of grief, focusing on the our patterns of avoidance, what we can and can’t control, and the impact of secondary losses. We discuss the role of the nervous system in processing grief and the significance of connecting to and expanding our sense of safety in our body as we navigate grief. Emphasising self-compassion and the ongoing journey of grief, encouraging you to validate your feelings and take gentle steps forwards with grief as a part of you. TakeawaysWe often have unrealistic expectations of ourselves during grief.Avoidance can manifest in various ways, including overworking and numbing.It's essential to validate where you are in your grief journey.Taking back control can start with small, manageable steps.Secondary losses are often overlooked but are significant in the grieving process.The nervous system plays a crucial role in how we experience grief.Finding safety in our environment can help regulate our nervous system.Self-compassion is vital in navigating grief and loss.Grief is not linear; it requires ongoing attention and care.It's okay to seek help and support in your grief journey.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel @deathonthedaily Share this episode with a friend who might need it. Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedailyYouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedailyFind out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.ukYou can connect with Kayleigh O’Connor here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodgrief_uk/Holistic Grief Coach certification which is enrolling now for January 2026: https://good-grief.mykajabi.com/holistic-grief-coach-certification-septemberWebsite: https://good-grief.co.uk This episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comThe theme music for Death on the Daily is Set Free by Katie Gray, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here https://www.katiegray.com Chapters00:00: Intro and theme02:26: The Journey of Grief and Avoidance11:06: Taking Back Control in Grief15:29: Navigating Secondary Losses22:35: The Role of the Nervous System in Grief32:15: Finding Safety and Presence in Grief

Dec 3, 2025 • 17min
The hidden grief behind Liverpool FC's slump
Let's talk about the profound impact of grief on Liverpool FC following the tragic death of Diogo Jota. Speaking to the individual and collective experiences of grief within the team, the emotional responses of players and fans, and the challenges of performing when we're grieving. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding grief as a universal experience that affects performance and team dynamics, advocating for compassion and support in navigating these difficult emotions.Key takeaways: * Grief affects every part of a connected system.* Each person's grief experience is unique.* Grief is not just sadness; it's a full body response.* Professional athletes face challenges in performance due to grief.* Grief doesn't have a set timeline for healing.* Collective grief can shift team dynamics and morale.* Fans also experience grief and can honor their loss collectively.* Organizations need to support grieving individuals effectively.* Grief can lead to identity shifts and changes in priorities.* Compassion and understanding are crucial in the grieving process.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel @deathonthedaily Share this episode with a friend who might need it. Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedailyYouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedailyFind out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.ukThe theme music for Death on the Daily is Set Free by Katie Gray, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here https://www.katiegray.com Chapters00:00: The Impact of Grief on Liverpool FC04:35: Individual vs. Collective Grief10:21: Fans in Collective Grief12:19: Understanding Grief in Sports and Beyond

Dec 2, 2025 • 24min
Surviving a Griefy Christmas: SOS Tips
In this episode of 'Death on the Daily', Tanya Wilkinson discusses the challenges of navigating grief during the holiday season. She shares her personal experiences and offers practical tips for coping with grief during Christmas, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion, setting boundaries, and creating new rituals. Tanya encourages listeners to honor their feelings and prioritize self-care, reminding them that they are not alone in their grief journey. The episode concludes with an invitation to join the Grief Cocoon, a supportive community for those dealing with loss.TakeawaysFeeling lonely during the holidays is normal.Each person's grief is unique and should be honored.It's okay to set boundaries with friends and family.Creating new rituals can help honor loved ones.Self-care is essential during the holiday season.Perfection is not the goal; presence is.Communicate your needs to your support system.Grief can resurface unexpectedly, even during celebrations.Join supportive communities to share your grief journey.It's important to give yourself grace during tough times.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel @deathonthedaily Share this episode with a friend who might need it. Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedailyYouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedailyFind out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.ukThis episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comThe theme music for Death on the Daily is Set Free by Katie Gray, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here https://www.katiegray.com Chapters00:00: Introduction: Navigating Grief During the Holidays02:43: Practical Tips for Surviving Christmas05:32: Setting Boundaries and Building Support08:48: Creating New Rituals and Traditions11:36: Self-Care and Embracing Imperfection14:26: Conclusion and Invitation to Grief Cocoon

Nov 21, 2025 • 59min
Miraculous moments of human connection and community in death & grief with Queer death doula Jamie Thrower
Today I’m joined by Jamie Thrower, who is a Queer death doula, educator, and founder of Queer Grief Club. We explore what it really means to show up at the threshold of death, and why so many grief spaces still don’t feel safe or welcoming for Queer people.This episode is for anyone who has ever grieved, ever supported someone through loss, or ever wondered how we can build a world where everyone including the Queer community are held in death and grief with dignity, compassion, care and belonging.Key takeaways: How death care is community care.Why Queer death & grief is often unsupported in our systems. The importance of finding community and care with shared lived experience. What true presence looks like at the end of life. The awe, tenderness and connection that can exist during the dying process. How connecting into nature can be a beautiful gateway to being present with death. The power of paperwork and advocacy in protecting queer people at end of life. Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:* Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel @deathonthedaily * Share this episode with a friend who might need it. * Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily * YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily * Find out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.ukYou can connect with Jamie Thrower here: * Website: https://www.jamiethrower.com* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/queergriefclub/* Etsy store: https://www.etsy.com/shop/QueerGriefClub* Substack: https://jamiethrower.substack.comThis episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comThe theme music for Death on the Daily is Set Free by Katie Gray, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here https://www.katiegray.com Chapters:00:00: Intro and welcome to Death on the Daily02:00: Welcome Jamie Thrower. Childhood loss and discovering mortality early08:05: Ordinary moments that become extraordinary at the end10:25: How to show up for someone who is dying14:05: Pushing through the fear and discomfort of death21:55: Why kids and adults benefit from being included in death24:40: The intersections of identity in grief - harm within the medical system29:55: The loneliness of trying to grieve in spaces not built for Queer families32:05: Why Queer specific grief spaces matter35:05: Paperwork, agency and protecting queer people at the end of life43:20: Death care as community care

Nov 12, 2025 • 25min
How to tend to your anger in grief: Simple practices to soften
Today we explore the multifaceted nature of anger experienced during grief. How anger can manifest towards various entities, including oneself, loved ones, and even spiritual beliefs. Speaking to the complexity of unresolved feelings related to loss and the emotional turmoil that accompanies the grieving process.Sign up to my newsletter to receive your FREE Grief, Grace & Growth 12 page ebook journal: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-grace-growth-journalTakeaways:Anger in grief can be directed at oneself and others.Frustration often arises from unmet expectations in support networks.Anger can be aimed at healthcare providers involved in care.Spiritual beliefs can influence feelings of anger and injustice.Unresolved past situations can exacerbate feelings of anger.The feeling of loss can lead to anger towards the deceased.Grief can evoke a sense of injustice that fuels anger.Expressing anger is a natural part of the grieving process.Understanding the sources of anger can aid in healing.Navigating grief requires acknowledging complex emotions.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:* Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel @deathonthedaily * Share this episode with a friend who might need it. * Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily * YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily * Find out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.ukThis episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comThe theme music for Death on the Daily is Set Free by Katie Gray, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here https://www.katiegray.com

Nov 11, 2025 • 12min
Transform the flame of anger: meditation for difficult emotions
Feeling anger rise? Wish you could hold it gently instead of letting it control you? In this guided meditation, we visualise your anger as a flame. Bringing gentle awareness, containment and transformation. We’ll breathe in to contain the flame, then breathe out and invite the flame to illuminate the path ahead, rather than burn uncontrolled. Ending this meditation with gratitude, so that you can see anger is a part of you, but not all of you. This meditation supports work with anger, grief, difficult emotions and mindful emotional regulation. Offering compassion, presence and a way forward.Use this meditation when:* You notice anger rising and want to respond rather than react* You’re navigating grief and find anger surfacing in the loss* You feel stuck in your anger emotion and are ready to transform it* You want to find presence with anger, plus connect into gratitudes in the presentAre you journeying with grief? Download my FREE Grief, Grace & Growth journaling ebook here: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/newsletter Disclaimer: This content is for entertainment and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice.This practice invites gentle awareness of grief and sadness, which may bring up strong emotions. Before you begin, check in with yourself and see whether it feels right for you to do this meditation today. You know yourself best - trust what feels right for you.This meditation is not a substitute for professional mental health care. Follow Death on the Daily:* Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this channel @deathonthedaily * Share this meditation with a friend who might need it. * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily * YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily This meditation is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comThis meditation might be helpful if you are looking for tools related to: guided meditation for anger, mindfulness & difficult emotions, grief and anger, emotional regulation meditation, let go of anger, visualisation meditation, healing from loss & anger.

Oct 15, 2025 • 38min
7 things I wish I had known about baby loss: practical & emotional support for parents
In this episode of Death on the Daily, I (Tanya Wilkinson) share my personal experiences with baby loss - sharing what I wish I had known. Including importance of recognising yourself as a mother if you wish to, understanding that partners may grieve differently, and the significance of rituals in the healing process. Emphasising the need for open communication, advocating for care, and accepting the ongoing nature of grief. I hope that this episode can be your compassionate guide if you are experiencing baby loss, pregnancy loss, miscarriage - providing you with practical and emotional support and understanding at this tender time.Sign up to my newsletter to receive your FREE Grief, Grace & Growth 12 page ebook journal: https://tanyawilkinson.co.uk/grief-grace-growth-journalTakeawaysYou are a mother, regardless of the circumstances of baby loss.Partners may grieve differently, leading to feelings of isolation.There may not be clear answers to why baby loss occurs. It’s important to not blame yourself. Rituals can provide comfort and a way to honour your baby / babies.Advocating for your care is essential during the medical and grieving process.The emotional and physical effects of baby loss can be overwhelming.It's normal for some things to continue feeling difficult after loss.Grief is a nonlinear journey with ebbs and flows.Support networks are crucial in navigating grief.You are not alone; many share similar experiences of loss.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. Follow Death on the Daily:* Do Subscribe to this channel and leave a rating - this helps me so much to reach new people * Share this episode with a friend who might need it. * Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily * YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily * Find out about my work as a Grief Coach and connect with me here: https://www.tanyawilkinson.co.ukThis episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comThe theme music for Death on the Daily is Set Free by Katie Gray, which is used with artist's permission. You can connect with Katie and her music and beautiful Empowered Heart work here https://www.katiegray.com Chapters00:00: Understanding Baby Loss and Grief01:58: The Journey of Motherhood Through Loss04:50: Navigating Grief with Partners08:05: Seeking Answers in Loss10:56: The Importance of Rituals in Healing13:50: Advocating for Your Care17:06: The Emotional and Physical Impact of Loss19:59: Supporting Others Through Grief22:47: The Nonlinear Nature of Grief


