Death on the Daily

Today we’re exploring anticipatory grief, when we grieve someone who’s still alive. I share my personal experiences with my grandmother's dementia, in her final chapter. Discussing the complexities of experiencing grief before a loved one's death, emphasising the importance of acknowledging and expressing your feelings. I offer practical strategies for coping with anticipatory grief, including naming the grief, letting go of perfection, and finding ways to honour this loss and slowly say goodbye. Talking about coexistence of love, joy and sadness in the grieving process and encouraging you to honour their emotions and seek support.TakeawaysAnticipatory grief is the grief experienced before a loved one's death.It's important to acknowledge both joy and sadness in grief.Naming your grief can be a powerful first step.Letting go of perfection is crucial in the grieving process.Finding ways to say goodbye can be deeply healing.Anticipatory grief can manifest in various life transitions, not just death.Self-compassion is essential when navigating grief.Professional support can be beneficial for those struggling with grief.Creating rituals can help in processing anticipatory grief.Grief is a lifelong journey that can bring meaning and connection.Follow & Support Death on the Daily:Do Subscribe to this channel and share this episode with a friend who might need it. On Spotify leave a comment on this episode. Subscribe to my Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily Subscribe on YouTube for exclusive meditations and grief rituals: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily The 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 work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.com00:00: Understanding the Complexity of Anticipatory Grief06:05: Simple Ways That You Can Hold Anticipatory Grief06:14: Acknowledging and Naming Grief08:13: Letting Go of Perfection10:15: Let Yourself Say Goodbye

I’m joined by grief & trauma therapist Rio Richards to explore the complexities of grief, pain and the unhelpful silver lining cultural messaging surrounding them. We discuss our personal experiences of loss, the importance of community and connection in navigating grief, and the barriers that prevent us from sharing our pain. Emphasising the power of human connection and significance of witnessing others' grief, and not trying to fix anything. Plus the transformative power of being present with our emotions in our own transformation, including in feeling greater depths of joy. We also speak to the experience of anticipatory grief for those caregiving, and the role we all need to play in supporting individuals through their grief journeys.TakeawaysCultural messaging often stigmatizes pain and grief, making it difficult to share.Grief and death are integral parts of the human experience, just like birth and joy.Creating a supportive community can help individuals navigate their grief.Witnessing others' grief can be healing and transformative for both parties.We can connect deeply with others through shared experiences of grief.Anticipatory grief is a unique experience that deserves recognition and support.Caregiving can bring its own set of challenges and grief that often goes unacknowledged.It's important to lean on community support during difficult times.Taking small steps to explore pain can help individuals reconnect with their emotions.Empathy and presence are crucial in supporting those who are grieving.Follow & Support Death on the Daily:LIKE, COMMENT + SUBSCRIBE to this podcast - it really helps me to spend the word. 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 You can connect with Rio Richards and find out about her offerings including upcoming group programme here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andthatsgrief/Substack: https://riorichards.substack.com8 week Grief Portal group program starting 7 August 2025: https://riorichards.thrivecart.com/grief-portal-program/ 1-2-1 waitlist: https://rio-richards.kit.com/5b041a610cThe 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 work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: Introduction and theme02:16: Personal Journeys of Grief and Transformation06:46: The Power of Witnessing and Connection11:00: Navigating Grief in Therapy16:31: Barriers to Sharing Grief22:39: Exploring Pain and Grief in Small Steps30:39: Anticipatory Grief and Caregiving37:31: Supporting Caregivers and the Importance of Community43:18: The Complexity of Grief and Human Connection

Today we’re exploring the concept of continuing bonds in grief; how you can maintain connections with loved ones who have passed away. We’ll discuss the continuing bonds theory, which shows that keeping these connections can be beneficial for processing grief. I share personal stories and practical ways to honour and remember loved ones, including rituals, creative expressions, and journaling. This episode will show you how you can embrace your grief by finding  meaningful ways to keep their loved ones present in their lives.TakeawaysGrief can be a powerful connection to our loved ones.Continuing bonds theory suggests maintaining connections is healthy.Grief doesn't diminish; we grow around it.Creative expressions can honour our loved ones.Rituals provide anchoring in the grieving process.Talking to our loved ones can be therapeutic.Writing letters to the deceased can help process feelings.Wearing or carrying something of theirs keeps their memory alive.Journaling can help explore how loved ones show up in our lives.It's important to allow space for both joy and sadness in grief.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: open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/* Instagram: /www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily * YouTube: youtube.com/@deathonthedaily The 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 work here www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: Embracing Grief and Continuing Bonds10:28: Practical Ways to Maintain Connections: Talk to them11:24: Writing Your Loved One A Letter12:07: How To Create Grief Rituals14:19: Wearing Or Carrying Something Of The Person Who You’re Grieving

Let’s explore the essential conversations and preparations surrounding death and end-of-life planning. Discussing the importance of embracing impermanence, setting out who can advocate for us when we cannot through a lasting power of attorney, getting your will in place, and the significance of exploring, documenting and communicating your plans for end of life and your funeral through advanced planning. We also dive into the concept of legacy, encouraging you to reflect on the impact you wish to leave behind and the stories they want to share with future generations.Key takeawaysEmbracing impermanence helps us appreciate the present moment.Having a trusted person to speak on your behalf when you can’t is crucial.Legal documentation like lasting power of attorney is essential to formalise this.Advanced care planning ensures your end of life wishes are known.Creating a personalised plan for your farewell can be a beautiful process.Legacy is about the impact we leave on others.It’s beneficial to get your will in place now, don’t wait. Documenting stories and memories is a valuable gift to family.End-of-life planning is for the living, not just the dying.Conversations about death can bring clarity and comfort.Taking small steps in planning can alleviate fear and resistance.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 This episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: Introducing the end of life essentials. 02:15: Setting up a Lasting Power of Attorney08:53: Advanced care planning for end of life and planning your funeral13:34: Understanding your legacy including writing your will 

I am joined today by the hilarious and brilliantly creative sister duo that are Katy and Lindsey Vigurs, co-founders of Dead Good. We explore the intersection of creativity, joy, meaning making and death. Katy and Lindsey share their personal experiences with death & grief. Including anticipatory grief in their Dad’s final year as they listened to their Dad and came up with creative responses as a family - making it his best year. We also discuss the importance of community, conversation about death, and how creative rituals can help us to navigate our own mortality and talk about things that are taboo. Emphasising the need for open discussions about death, the role of humour, playfulness and joy in navigating death & grief, whilst not shying away from the pain of grief, and the importance of planning for the inevitable. Through their work, the Dead Good sisters aim to reawaken a connection with death and make the topic more accessible and less taboo. With practical guidance to help you to get important things in place like a will. Key takeawaysCreativity can help us to connect with death and grief.Community support is vital in navigating grief.Humour and playfulness can coexist with grief.Creative rituals can make memories and meaning at the end of life for the person and their family.Anticipatory grief can be supported through creative expression.Conversations about death should be normalised.Making wills and legal preparations is essential.Coming together for parties to talk about death plans can be fun and empowering. Death conversations fosters connection and breaks fear and taboo.Light and playful conversation can ease the fear of mortality.Death education can empower individuals to engage with their mortality.Follow & Support Death on the Daily:Do Like, Comment & Subscribe to this podcast. Share this episode with a friend who might need it. Subscribe to my Death on the Daily Substack: https://open.substack.com/pub/deathonthedaily/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily You can connect with Katy and Lindsey Vigurs and their Dead Good offerings here:Website: https://www.deadgood.orgThe Mortal Portal on Substack: https://deadgood.substack.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/deadgoodlegaciesThe 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 work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: Embracing Death: A Creative Perspective02:45: Personal Journeys Through Grief05:23: The Importance of Community in Death Conversations08:15: Creative Rituals and Memory Making11:08: Navigating Anticipatory Grief13:46: The Role of Humor and Playfulness in Grief16:24: Reawakening Our Connection with Death19:06: Starting Conversations About Mortality21:53: Creative Approaches to Death Education24:49: The Power of Connection in Grief27:24: Making Death Planning Accessible30:21: The Importance of Wills and Legal Preparations32:55: Transformative Experiences in Death Work35:49: Visibility and Community Engagement in Death Conversations38:34: Finding Joy in the Conversation About Death

Today we’re exploring the concept of glimmers (first coined by Deb Dana). These are small, positive moments that you can connect into - that can help you to navigate grief. She discusses how these glimmers can shift our nervous system state and provide comfort amidst pain. There is such power in us being present and connecting with simple joys in life, such as nature, pets, and daily rituals. Shared from my heart with the encouragement to actively seek out these moments and incorporate them into their daily practices, particularly through gratitude journaling.Key takeawaysGlimmers are micro moments that can help in grief.They can shift our nervous system state positively.Presence and connection are vital in navigating grief.Simple joys can be found in everyday life.Glimmers can coexist with feelings of pain and sadness.Practicing gratitude can enhance awareness of glimmers.Connecting with nature and pets can provide comfort.It's important to acknowledge and express emotions.Finding glimmers can be a daily practice.Glimmers support the journey of grief and healing.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 podcast.  * 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 This episode is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: Understanding Glimmers: The Opposite of Triggers04:41: Finding Joy in Simple Moments10:00: The Power of Connection and Presence11:54: Daily Practices for Recognizing Glimmers

If you’ve ever felt like you’re just surviving… this one’s for you. Let’s talk about what real resilience looks like when you’re grieving and trying to keep going... Today we're exploring the complexities of grief and resilience. Challenging the societal notion of "strength", advocating for a more nuanced understanding of resilience that embraces our vulnerability, acceptance and the messiness of life.I share the 7 C's of Resilience, with practical insights and personal reflections on navigating grief. The episode concludes with 3 essential daily practices for building resilience and a note to self, emphasising the importance of self-compassion and connection in the grieving process.Key takeaways:* Grief is often misunderstood; strength is not always visible.* Resilience is about acceptance and embracing vulnerability.* Nature serves as a powerful metaphor for resilience.* Real resilience involves being open to the journey of grief.* The 7 C's of Resilience can guide us through tough times.* Connection with others is vital for navigating grief.* Daily practices can enhance our resilience and coping skills.* Rest is essential for emotional well-being, not a luxury.* Rituals can provide grounding and meaning in grief.* Each small step in grief adds up to significant progress.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:* Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast  @deathonthedaily  * Subscribe to my writing on Substack: https://substack.com/@deathonthedaily* Plus I always love to hear from you, so please do drop a comment or message to me here: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily * YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily The 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 work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: Redefining Strength in Grief01:56: The Seven Cs of Resilience04:56: Nature as a Teacher of Resilience08:15: Daily Practices for Building Resilience11:01: The Importance of Connection and Community14:19: Rituals and Rest in the Grieving Process17:13: Empowerment Through Control20:08: Closing Reflections and Notes to Self

I am joined today by astrologer, past life therapist, teacher and author David Wells to explore our soul’s journeys through death and transformation. We discuss how grief is intertwined with love, our societal avoidance of death and the importance of embracing it as a part of life and necessary for us to grow. David shares his profound personal journey through serious illness and how it led him to deepen his mediumship abilities. We dive into the topic of past lives, the cyclical nature of life and death, and the acceptance of death as a pathway to grace. We also speak to the symbolism of the Death card in oracle and tarot, including David’s The Tree of Life Oracle. Far from a card to be feared, this card represents transformation and rebirth. Discussing the importance of embracing discomfort during personal transformation. Plus the role of astrology in understanding life changes, and the significance of connecting with one's soul. Our conversation emphasises the need for self-compassion and the understanding that personal growth often requires surrendering to the process. Key takeawaysGrief is a natural response to love and loss.Embracing death can lead to personal transformation.Illness and difficult times can serve as a catalyst for transformation and growth. Childhood experiences with the spirit world can be nurtured. Past lives offer insights into our current life and relationships.The Death card in tarot symbolises transformation, not just physical death.Embracing discomfort can lead to personal transformation.The journey of the soul continues beyond physical existence.Astrology can provide insights into personal transformations.Self-compassion is crucial during times of change.Nature's cycles reflect our own personal journeys of transformation.Transformation often requires surrendering to the process.Authenticity is key to understanding one's true path.The importance of being gentle with oneself during difficult times.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEW SUBSTACK: https://deathonthedaily.substack.com/p/being-present-with-death-taught-meFollow Death on the Daily:Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast. Plus I always love to hear from you, so please do drop a comment or message to me here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily You can connect with David Wells and his work and writing here: Website: www.davidwells.co.ukActivated Magic on Substack: davidwellsspirited.substack.comThe oracle cards featured in this episode are David’s own. I pull a card from this deck each evening:Tree of Life Oracle, by David Wells. Art by Roberta Orpwood, @soulbirdart. Published by Hay House UK The 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 work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: Introduction and theme01:05: Embracing Death as a Part of Life03:14: Transformative Experiences and Illness07:01: Childhood Connections to the Spirit World12:03: Understanding Past Lives14:51: The Cycle of Life and Death16:54: Acceptance and Grace in Facing Death19:15: The Death Card: Transformation and Rebirth25:15: Rituals and Reminders of Cycles28:19: Navigating Grief and Transformation30:38: The Cycle of Life and Death32:49: Understanding the Soul's Journey34:53: Connecting with the Soul36:33: Embracing Change and Surrender39:09: Astrology and Transformation42:36: The Human Experience of Transformation44:34: Finding Guidance in the Mud48:23: Authenticity and Self-Discovery

In this episode, we explore the journey through our grief - not around or avoiding it. Emphasising the importance of embracing difficult emotions and being present with them. I share my personal experiences in my lifelong journey with grief. We sit and breathe together, plus I share insights on how you can navigate grief with grace and compassion, highlighting the importance of care, connection and rituals. You’ll leave with practical tools and practices to help you to honour your grief and find meaning in your experiences, ultimately encouraging a deeper connection to oneself and the healing process.Key takeawaysIt's important to sit with difficult emotions.Presence can be a simple lever for resilience.Numbing pain lowers our baseline for joy.Grief allows us to feel the full force of love.Connecting with our bodies can provide insights.Seeking support is essential in the grief journey.Nature can be a powerful space for healing.Journaling helps in processing grief.Rituals can bring meaning to our grief.Every small step in grief matters.Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Nor is it a substitute for professional support. SUBSCRIBE TO MY NEW SUBSTACK: https://deathonthedaily.substack.com/p/being-present-with-death-taught-meMY GRIEF STORY AS A BEREAVED MOTHER: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/death-on-the-daily/id1761150738?i=1000705570083Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4PGZOL0yiRPosE9n6Ue8It?si=987f892289c2484dFollow Death on the Daily:Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast. Plus I always love to hear from you, so please do drop a comment or message to me here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily The 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 work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: Embracing Pain for Growth01:57: The Journey of Grief and Presence04:42: Practices for Navigating Grief07:51: Finding Presence in Difficult Emotions10:41: Connecting with Nature and Self-Care14:01: Journaling and Rituals for Healing19:45: The Wisdom in Pain and Sadness

Inspired by the last episode of this podcast with Dr Mekel Harris, and her brilliant work in the space of softening into grief. Today we’re exploring the concept of 'softening' as a journey towards stillness and surrender. Looking at the societal pressures of toxic productivity and the importance of being present with our emotions, especially in times of grief. Through personal reflections and practical prompts, you’ll be able to take steps to embrace your vulnerability, practice stillness, and cultivate self awareness as essential steps in your own journeys of softening and finding presence in grief and the painful. Emphasises that softness is not a weakness but a profound strength that allows for deeper connection with oneself and others.Journal prompts: Where am I soft and still? And where do I need to slow down and find stillness? Connect into your body. How does my body feel when I’m soft?Close your eyes and say, I’m listening. Where do I resist, where do I numb, where do I avoid?What boundaries or practices can help me to invite more stillness in?TakeawaysThe journey of softening is ongoing and not a destination.Society often promotes toxic productivity, leading to avoidance of emotions.Vulnerability is crucial for authentic connection and strength.It's important to acknowledge and sit with our grief and pain.Practicing stillness can unlock intuitive wisdom.Reflection prompts can guide us in our softening journey.Softness requires courage to face uncomfortable truths.Numbing behaviors often stem from societal pressures.Creating boundaries is essential for self-care and softness.Softness is a practice that can be cultivated over time.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:Don’t forget to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast. Plus I always love to hear from you, so please do drop a comment or message to me here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/death_onthedaily YouTube: http://youtube.com/@deathonthedaily To connect with Dr Mekel Harris and her invitations to soften, you can follow her here: https://www.instagram.com/drmekelThe 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 work here ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.katiegray.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This podcast is edited by David Strutt, who you can contact here for any editing needs: davidstrutt2@gmail.comChapters00:00: Embracing Vulnerability and Grief02:18: The Journey of Softening05:06: Reflection and Self-Discovery08:00: The Power of Stillness11:14: Awareness and Intuition14:09: Practicing Sacred No's17:23: Invitation to Soften20:16: Closing Reflections and Call to Action